InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Forbidden ❯ First part ( Chapter 1 )

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

“He would have done many thing's different. The first being in the clearing when this all started. Maybe even venturing to say he would have like to meet you all over again.”

“Why?”
”Everyone has made it clear to this Sesshomaru that you believe he will never love you. I made my word but had done little to prove my word means anything. He has tried to think of something he could do so you believe in him, but night after night he has thought of nothing. Last night being one of those nights.”
”Pity, isn't it.” Kagome stood tired of their talk.

“Pity what Miko?”

“There are no re-dos.” Kagome let the room slightly sorry there were no re-dos. She could sure use a few.

 

Kagome found herself in her room staring at the plant she had adopted. It had healed and was growing strong. She had yet to figure out what it was but that didn't stop her from caring for it.

 

Sesshomaru waited for Totosai and Akira in his study. His father had been in the exact same study when he had been alive. Midoriko's words grated on him. Had he really had a chance to revive his father, could he maybe again? These and thoughts of Kagome plagued him for the rest of the day.

 

Kagome went to find her children. After directions from a smiling guard she found them in the gardens chasing butterflies. Watching then from yards away Kagome couldn't help but smile even more. Shippo noticed his mother when she arrived but decided to finish the game he was playing with Rin. They jumped and played for a while longer before running up and tackling Kagome to the ground. Kagome laughed and tickled the kids as they rolled around on the ground.

They all stopped to breathe. “I'm hungry.” Shippo whined right before his stomach growled.

“Rin is too.”

“We just ate, how are you hungry?”
”We just are?” Shippo offered.

“Fine, come on, we'll go to the kitchens.”

“But Lord Sesshomaru said no one can go to the kitchens.”

“Well I don't care what he says.” Kagome stood and dusted herself off.

“Piggy back!” Shippo cried.

“What?!” Kagome glared playful at him.

“Please momma?” He gave her his puppy dog eyes.

“Fine. Hop on.” Kagome knelt and waited for the extra weight, which she hardly noticed. Rin crawled onto her back with instructions from Shippo, while he held on to Kagome's shoulder. Kagome stood and began walking to he kitchens, one of the few places she could find on her own. Rin laughed as they walked finding the new experience fun. The servants smiled and greeted the three. Kagome smiled and said her hellos.

Sesshomaru watched from the shadows.

Mother and children entered the busy kitchen laughing. All work continued except for the head chef who came over with a smile on his face. “Lady Kagome! What a welcome surprise. With Lady Rin and Lord Shippo. What can I get you?”
”Do you have any rice balls laying around?”
”Just for you my Lady.” He smiled and disappeared, returning with a small bundle.

“Thank you.” Kagome bowed awkwardly before taking the food and holding it with her teeth. The man and many of the helpers laughed as she left the kitchen and headed back outdoors.

“Kagome you look foolish.” Sesshomaru said.

All three looked towards the demon Lord and glared. Kagome muttered something that could be unheard due to the food held in her mouth.

Sesshomaru shook his head.

“Rin thinks Lord Sesshomaru is laughing at us.”

Kagome said something and Shippo translated it. “Kagome agrees and wants to know if the…. I'll skip that part… she wants to know if you want to join us.”

“Your invite is welcome.” Sesshomaru joined then as they headed back to the gardens knowing better then to take the food from Kagome. They sat under a tree somewhat in the middle of the gardens. Kagome let both children climb off her back before removing the bundle from her mouth. She sat non-to-lady like and opened the gift from the chef.

Inside were 16 rice balls, there were four different kinds, each one of Kagome's favorite.

Shippo and Rin picked theirs quickly while Kagome had a hard time choosing. She finally grabbed a pork ball, and watched as the man next to her picked up a shrimp ball.

“Why don't you guys draw a picture and pick some flowers as a thank you for chef?”

“Will you help Rin?” The little girl asked liking the idea.

“Of course.” Kagome smiled and took another bite.

Sesshomaru sat with the little group and felt warm inside. He needed to find something that Kagome would like a lot. Maybe then she would sit down with him. The children were his best bet.

 

Sesshomaru watched as Kagome played wanting to take her in his arms and never let her go.

Kagome grabbed Shippo and bent over him, tickling him with out mercy. Rin jumped on her back and poked her sides trying to `save' Shippo.

“Run Rin.” Shippo laughed. Kagome reached behind her with one hand and caught the little girl in her ribs effectively making her squeal. Rin jumped off her back and ran to hide behind Sesshomaru. Kagome charged after Rin for payback and ran around Sesshomaru, much like running around a tree, trying to catch Rin.

Sesshomaru watched their banter with a smile on his face. Rin passed in front of him Kagome right behind her. He reached out and grabbed the older woman around the waist. Kagome laughed her hair falling in front of her face.

“Help!” She laughed.

“Don't worry momma.” Shippo charged his mother and her captor. Rin stopped and jumped, with much effort, onto Sesshomaru's back. Shippo climbed up the clothes of his mother and tried to tickle her captor's ribs, but had no luck.
Sesshomaru tickled his mate, running his claws over her sides lightly making her wiggle in his grip. Rin and Shippo continued their assault but when Rin jumped on her father-figure's back, she caught him off guard just a little and they all tumbled to the ground. Sesshomaru braced himself so that no one could get hurt.

Kagome landed on her side safely wrapped in Sesshomaru's arms. She still continued to laugh and wiggle to get free.

Inu Yasha found them in a pile on the ground and almost fainted at the smile on his brother's face. “Dinner is ready.” He coughed.

All four people looked up at him with evil looks in their eyes. “Get him.” Kagome ordered. Shippo and Rin were the first ones up. The hanyou look afraid and ran knowing if Shippo caught him it would be the end for him.

Sesshomaru watched as the three ran, he held Kagome tightly.

Kagome laughed lightly until her children and best-friend ran into the castle out of sight. It was only then that she realized Sesshomaru still held her, sporting a very large hard-on.

“You can let me up now.”
”This one thinks we can stay here for a few moments.”
”I.” Kagome corrected.

“Hn?”

“I think we could stay here. Your third person is quite annoying at times.” Kagome teased.

“This maybe so, but it is effective and intimidating.”
”For your enemies maybe, but I'm not afraid of you.” Kagome grinned.

“Hn?” Sesshomaru rolled them over so he was on top of her staring down into her eyes. He couldn't help but stop breathing. “As many times as this…I want to apologize, it takes only one look into your eyes to realize you never changed. They look into this one's soul and makes him regret hurting you in everyway he has.”

“I know, but something inside me just can't forgive you.”
”What can…I do to make it better?” He hated using first person, it was annoying, but he would use it with only his mate.

“I don't know.” Kagome looked away from his intense stare.

Sesshomaru had her attention and wasn't going to let her go until he had an answer. “I want to know. Anything. Just stop ignoring I.”

“Did no one ever teach you how to speak properly?” Kagome huffed.

“It was a lesson his one can admit to ignoring.” He gave a small shrug forcing himself to act relaxed and normal.

“Rin even has poor language. Yours is the worst.”
”This one's vocabulary is reasonable, just not to your standards.”

“Maybe so, but you sound ridiculous, especially when you can't say `I' or `me'. Its always `this one' or `this Sesshomaru.'” She mimicked his voice.

Sesshomaru was amused at his mate's pointless rant. It was so easy to annoy her. Kagome caught his smile and silent laugh. Her eyes narrowed. “Are you laughing at me?”

“Does it matter mate?” He used the term to see how it would affect her.

“I'm being serious here and you don't care.” Kagome acted like she was about to cry, mentally smiling.

Sesshomaru tensed, he couldn't stand her tears. The few people he had interacted with always seemed to kiss their mate's tears away, but she had asked him not to. Unsure of what to do he took her bared neck and licked it.

“Ewww. You licked me.” Kagome laughed and tried to escape his grasp.

Sesshomaru knew not to take it as rejection so he did it again, this time he licked the shell of her ear. Once his tongue had finished its track he breathed lightly on it.

Her reaction was anything but playful. Her arousal scent went through the roof. A small groan reached his ears. Nuzzling her head to the side more he licked and nipped at the creamy skin. Kagome's body pushed against his as she clutched at his clothes.

“Sesshomaru. Stop.”

He gave on last lick before pulling away. “I am sorry mate, if I crossed the line.”

“We have a dinner to attend to. After everyone goes to bed, we will see if this will continue.”

Sesshomaru wanted so badly to kiss her at the moment. He instead he helped her to her feet. She brushed the dust off of her and gathered up the remaining rice balls. Sesshomaru offered his arm, which Kagome accepted.

The two entered the dinning hall together. No one tried to stare but the curiosity was suffocating. Kagome sat to her mate's left. The spot where she was meant to always sit. Sesshomaru squeezed her hand lightly and ushered dinner to begin.

“A guard stationed at a border post sent word that Totosai is taking his sweet time getting here. And a band of spider demons crossed yesterday and should be here tomorrow.” Inu Yasha said out loud.

“Hn. How did you come into this information?”
”I was in your office looking for you and some guard asked me to relay the information.”

“Hn. We will make an announcement that you are Lord here also. This will give you power here.” Sesshomaru took a bite of seasoned raw meat.

“Whatever.”

“Kagome may we watch the stars tonight?” Rin asked silently begging. Kagome had promised a while ago and with the things the way they were the date had kept being pushed back.

“I'm sorry baby, but it's going to rain. Didn't you see the clouds when we were playing?”

Fear threaded its way into the happy girl's aura. “Rin does not like storms. Especially loud and bright ones.”

Sesshomaru knew this and knew at once his night with Kagome would be put on hold.

“How about I tell you guys a story so you won't be afraid of the storms. Okay?”

Shippo and Rin looked doubtful but agreed. “The next clear night, if nothing is happening, I'm sure we can go out to the gardens and I will teach you of the stars.”

Both children nodded knowing their mother would try her hardest.

 

Dinner went quickly and Kagome dismissed herself and the children to tuck them in.
”Sesshomaru, we will meet in your study to discuss the forth-coming events.” Kagome stated then left. Sesshomaru sat behind alone, the others leaving for bed themselves, slightly afraid. He sat there a bit longer then headed up to his study.

 

Kagome sat on the side of Rin's futon where both children snuggled up to stuffed animals she had brought them a while ago.

“The Kamis in the sky watch over us and protect us. They work all day and have very little time to themselves. When they do, they all get together when we are all being good and have a festival. The clouds cover the sky so that we can't see them. The loud sounds are them laughing and the bright flashing is when they toast to our long and health lives. When the festival is over, the clouds go away and they return to watching over us. However, if the wind should ever start to blow really, really hard, you must hide because it means the Kamis are angry. If they get too angry the person who angered them will have the bright light streaks turned onto them for being bad and trying to ruin the Kamis fun.”
”What does the rain mean then momma?”

“The rain is for when a drunk Kami accidentally spills is sake.” Kagome knew she was lying. A very big lie but a story none the less.

“How do we not anger the Kamis?” Rin asked.

“Well right now you can go to sleep. If a storm is in the day, you must go inside and listen and do what your told. If you get in trouble then you could anger the Kamis.”

Kagome prayed that both children didn't think it was a prank for them to be good. Thankfully neither questioned her on it. Outside the thunder banged far away.

“See they are laughing. Let's not anger them shall we?” Kagome pulled he blankets further over them and pressed her finger to her lips. Kagome walked out of the room after a quick kiss each and a `good night'.

“I think she was lying.” Shippo told Rin.

Outside lightning streaked across the sky and lit the room.

“I don't care, Momma has never lied to us and Rin doesn't want to anger the Kamis.”

“Agreed.” Shippo said shaking.

 

Kagome walked slowly down to Sesshomaru's study. She regretted telling him they would meet here considering her room was on the other side of the castle and his was just a few doors down the hall. Would it really be so bad? She asked herself.

Opening the door to the study she walked in. His desk was covered with scrolls. The room was fairly empty except for the bookcase filled with books and scrolls and the table with a map across it. Sesshomaru stood looking out the balcony windows.

“The servants were listening to your story.” He stated.

“Ah well. It was for the kids, they should sleep well.”

“I listened as well.”

“I know.” Kagome took a seat on the chair behind the desk and propped her feet up on the old wood.

“You are not angry?”

“Not really. I'm sure when science catches up to us in the future, I'll hear about it, but it doesn't bother me now.”
”Science? Future things I take it?”
”Maybe.” Kagome massaged her shoulders.

Sesshomaru turned and looked at her. He noticed her motions and walked to stand behind her. He rubbed the muscles across her upper back and shoulders.

“What was this afternoon?” Kagome said before she lost it and fell into his touch.

“I can not say. All I can say is it felt…right.”

“Hum.” Kagome dropped her feet and leaned to lay her head on the desk.

“What was it to you?”
”Happiness.”

Sesshomaru remained silent. He had expected her not to know. “Would you have let it go further?”
”I don't know. I see you and all I can see is you looking down at me when I changed.”
”Your slayer had told me of such things.”

Sesshomaru stopped and turned the chair so she faced him. He knelt, then sat, placing his head on her thigh. Kagome smiled sadly and petted his hair, then moved to trace his markings.

“Do you remember when I told you there was a part of me that hated you for what you have done to me?”
”How am I to forget?”

“It's times like this one, that I feel something else for you.” Kagome admitted.

“It was times like this afternoon with the children that I too felt something I had never felt before.”
”Would you train me?”

“There is no need. Midoriko has already taken care of it. She is part of you. I called to her that night. She told me what to do, so you would be safe and happy. There had to be apart of you that wanted it for her to know.” Sesshomaru hedged hoping she wouldn't stop touching him.

“There has been apart of me that has always wondered what it would be like to be like you, or even Inu Yasha. It scared me though seeing you standing over me through the pain. Then I saw you when I woke up just staring. You looked at me like people look at monsters. I saw myself in the mirror and was so shocked I felt horrible. My first thoughts were `he's just like them'. I thought you had done this too me because I looked too human. I see now that I was wrong, but it still hurts.”

“I am truly sorry Kagome. This is the first time I have ever regretted my actions. I have questioned many but never regretted any of them.”

Kagome continued petting the man at her feet. Sesshomaru didn't seem to mind so she found no harm in it.

“Does this bother you?” She asked.

“Does what bother me?”
”Our position. Sango has always told me male demons always like being on top.”

“Your slayer is correct, but this it not a situation where that applies.”
”Oh.” Kagome let her unused hand join the one touching Sesshomaru and began to rub his shoulders. Sesshomaru sat up straighter and leaned forward. Kagome's arms were to short so she moved to kneel behind him, moving his hair so as not to pull it. She started at his neck making slow lazy circles, then moved to the larger area of his shoulders, slowly adding his back and finally his whole backside.

Sesshomaru groaned in bliss under her touch. His stress seemed to disappear with each movement.

“This Sesshomaru might just keep you around Miko.” He teased.

Kagome laughed sensing his smile. “My Lord, I'm going to have to decline your offer. I have a mate to tend to when he decides to stop being a royal ass.”

“Your mate is a lucky man. Is it necessary to call him a mule though?”

“Maybe hearing it more will make him loosen up.”

“Hn. He is a lucky man, and doesn't deserve you.”

Kagome slowed her hands and smiled. Something deep inside her clawed at her mind, wanting her to take this casual teasing one step further.

She followed her urges and leaned forward, pulling his hair aside further, and licked the expose skin.

“Kagome? Do not start this unless you are positive it is what you want.” Sesshomaru hissed, his back arching at the feelings her tongue ignited in him.
”I'm not sure, but something inside me wants this, and I do too.” She shyly added and licked again this time sealing her lips over the area and scrapped her newly acquired fangs across it.

Sesshomaru balled his hands up not wanting to this to end.

“Why don't we retire?” Kagome's voice was deeper but she remained in control of the emotions plaguing her.

“As you wish.” Sesshomaru stood all to quickly unsure what had come over his mate.

Kagome knelt on the ground looking normal. Her eyes stared at him almost unwinding his nerves. She stood slowly and elegantly.

He offered his arm and she accepted it. Slowly leading her to their chambers.

“Will your beast show up tonight?”
”He grows impatient. If you wish to wait, I'm sure we can work something out.”

“I wish to…experiment tonight. It is something from my time. I'm sure here, being demon, things are different. Do you trust me?” Something in Kagome knew he would be conflicted as she was with what she had in mind, but she was bound to try it.

“An experiment?” Sesshomaru thought about it, thinking of everything he had been taught preparing himself for whatever she could do to him. “Yes, I trust you.” He finally answered as he opened the door to their room and allowed her to enter.

“Thank you mate.”

“I have to ask though, does your rule still apply, no kisses?”
”Sadly yes. I wanted my first kiss to be about love. It wasn't; I was to save Inu Yasha. So was my second. Third time is a charm, even if I have to set rules for it to be.”

“I see. Is this a thing for all humans? Or females?”
”I don't know, but it's just something I want. It's part of my list.”
”Hn.” Sesshomaru made a mental note to talk to his brother about that list.

Kagome waited for him beside the bed, watching as he set up a barrier and locked the door. She looked at him with a curious glare and then shrugged it off.

Kagome found herself void of clothes faster then she had ever know possible. Sesshomaru held her in his arms, his head buried in her neck. Kagome flexed her hands wondering if he would be mad if she shredded his clothes. Instead she untied the obi and let it fall. She parted the kimono and reached in to untie his fukodoshi, moving to push the remaining material off his shoulders.

Sesshomaru let her go, letting the clothing finish falling from his body. They stood together for a few moments waiting for the other to move. Kagome held back her burning blush.

Sesshomaru made the first move. He closed the space between them pulling her towards the bed. He gave her room to pull away but was thankful when she didn't.

Kagome let him pull her and when they were close enough she stopped. “Lay down my mate. Let me apologize to you and treat you the way I should, the way our first night should have been.”

Sesshomaru nodded and moved to the middle of the bed. Kagome stood there staring for a moment before moving to the foot of the large futon. She gathered her courage and curiosity. The first step was the hardest and she knelt and began to crawl up towards him. Sesshomaru was already hard, just seeing her naked. Now with his mate crawling ever closer he grew harder.

Kagome parted her mate's legs ignoring the fear that was setting in. She had never done this, let alone thought of doing it. He accepted her movements and relaxed not trying to scare her.

Taking a risk she reached out and drug her claws down the inside of his thigh. Sesshomaru hissed and arched off the mattress effectively shredding the sheets. Kagome pulled away afraid she had hurt him.

“Don't stop.” He panted pained she had stopped touching him.

Kagome nodded and reached out, watching his face, and drug both hands down from his waist to his knees.

Sesshomaru was in bliss. His beast wasn't happy she was dominating him, but found no room to complain seeing she was back in his room and not on the other side of the castle.

Kagome reached tenderly out and wrapped a hand around the large erection and let it go, running her figures down the tender but oh so soft flesh.

Sesshomaru let out something between a moan and a growl. Taking this as a good thing Kagome moved farther up and licked her way from his chest down to his belly button. She circled the divot in his stomach and moved to trace each mark that lined his hips. Getting more noises from the man below her, Kagome drug her fangs across on of the marks.

“No fangs.” Sesshomaru moaned trying to think clearly.

“Will you explain why tomorrow?”
”Yes, but Kami don't stop.” He reached down to touch her head lightly and encouragingly.

Kagome nodded accepting his words and continued her teasing. She was having fun building up the tension. Her final move came without warning to Sesshomaru. He almost howled as her wet tongue traced a line from his balls to the tip of his erection. The searing hot line caused the muscles to twitch, making Kagome giggle and do it again.

Sesshomaru had never felt anything like it; he was lost in the feelings.

Knowing Sesshomaru could hardly control anything right now Kagome took a chance. She opened her mouth and slipped the erection into her mouth, lips squeezing gently as she went do on him.

Sesshomaru almost lost control again as her mouth closed over him. He forced himself not to thrust into her mouth, not sure if it would hurt her or not.

:”Kagome?” He shivered, his hand tightening in her hair.

Kagome looked up his body and pulled up torturously slow then went back down. He tasted of nature; the woods and earth, and the sweet waters only found in this era.

Smiling Kagome risked taking him further into her throat and picked up her speed.

Sesshomaru felt himself coming all too soon.

“Stop. I don't want it to end like this.” Sesshomaru panted through the haze.

Kagome let go of the hard flesh and looked up into his hazy eyes. “Are you okay?”
Sesshomaru couldn't think of a word to describe how he felt. He instead called on his demon speed and rolled then over putting her at his mercy. Kagome was surprised but let him take control feeling as if she had put him on the edge of losing it all.

Sesshomaru had an iron lock on his beast, and unless she asked for it, it would stay locked away. He licked her shoulder and moved down to her breast. Each one seemed to taste exactly alike, fitting his hands perfectly. Her stomach was flat and toned with few scars. Then he parted her legs and inhaled the intoxicating fumes of her arousal. Kagome lay still unsure of what he would do. Sesshomaru looked up at her and shyly licked out to taste the hidden muscles. Kagome arched off the bed sucking in a hiss of air. Her claws pulled at the scarps of cloth under her.

Doing it again, Sesshomaru licked a short line of her entrance, never tasting anything like her. Slowly sliding his tongue into her entrance he yearned for more.

Kagome didn't know how to react; the feelings going threw her were indescribable. His tongue licked a spot that only he had seen.

The woman below him, his mate was soaking wet, not with just his saliva but with her own juices. He stalked up her body and nuzzled her neck almost begging himself to love her just to have one taste of her truly forbidden lips.

Sesshomaru placed his erection at her entrance and could feel the heat of her core calling to him. He watched her as he pushed in happy with her reaction when just his head entered. He waited a second before pushing as much in as he could, trying not to hurt her. His head hit her back internal wall and he stopped gauging how far he was in. He looked down a realized he was hairs from being fully sheathed in her .He tested it and Kagome screamed him name shocking him out of his thoughts. He could tell he hadn't hurt her, but had hit a spot that made her orgasm. He pushing himself in fully slightly harder pulling back so as not to put pressure on the spot. Kagome arched off the bed and pulled his body, with abnormal strength, on top of her.

“If you do not stop teasing me, I swear to Kami I'll cut it off and please myself.” She snarled.

Sesshomaru paused not sure if it was a turn on or a threat. He obeyed though and pulled back shoving his whole length inside her tight passage. Kagome let go of him and he let his instincts take over. With each upward thrust her breasts bounced and she let out a short moan, this only made him harder.

He quit pacing himself and decided to finish this round. He picked up the pace and felt her walls tighten even more around him as he came moments later. So as not to crush her, Sesshomaru rolled off his mate and pulled her close, just her scent making him hard instantly.

“Mate?” He asked.

“Hum?” She voice was tired.

“Will you be able to handle this one's beast in…two days?”

“I hope so.” Kagome cuddled against his chest like a child and went to sleep.

Sesshomaru lay there for hours before letting himself fall asleep.

 

Morning came and passed and so did lunch and still there was no sign of Kagome or Sesshomaru. Everyone but the humans knew where they were, and none of them were going to risk waking the two up. Sango worried with Rin. Both girls were fearful something had happened causing Kagome to become sad or even angry. Miroku trusted the demons around then when they said both missing people, were fine and merely shunning the day. Shippo had smelt where his mother had gone but a strong barrier blocked anything past the door. Inu Yasha knew where the two were also, and being more adult he already knew what probably had happened.

 

Kagome woke to a waterfall of black and silver hair. She remembered her night very clearly. Turning slowly she looked at the still sleeping Sesshomaru. He was calm and gentle, and completely un-threatening. Smiling, Kagome brushed hair out of his eyes and traced his markings, enjoying this moment. She had a weird image of an old painting she had seen in a box at the shrine. It had been done in ink on parchment. Three men, two sitting and one standing, held their respective swords. If not for their clothing and markings they would have been brothers, triplets for sure.

Her mind wondered and she jolted up realizing a great big thing.

“Mate, what is wrong?” Sesshomaru was wide-awake when he felt her sit up.

“It was you.” She gaped at him, throwing the blankets covering them off her.

“Explain.” He requested watching her pace in front of the bed, loving the view.

“The painting, I always assumed it was some type of tribal tattoos but they are demon markings. Then the swords; Tokigen and Tensaiga, Tetsiga, and Syounga. It never crossed my mind. But his ears, where were his ears? And there were three; you, Inu Yasha, but who else? A cousin? Uncle? He was older I would guess.”

“Mate!” Sesshomaru snapped to stop her rambling.

“Huh? Oh I'm sorry. There is this painting at my shrine, where the village is, we keep all kinds of feudal things there, placed securely in storage areas. When I was little I found this very old painting of three men. The oldest one was standing in the middle, and then two other men were sitting just off to the side a little. Granted the painting is in black ink I know it was you and Inu Yasha. You both had yours swords. The third man was older and I'm sure as tall as you if not taller. You and him were so similar it's scary. He held Syounga, unsheathed and ready for battle. Who is he?”
”I am unsure of the person. Maybe if I could see this painting I could tell you?”
”I can't do that. If it hasn't be painted already, by bringing it here we could mess up the time stream. I can't explain it, but if I bring it back it could mess up what the future is suppose to be like.”
”I understand. Could you get a better description or be able to point him out if you seen my line's royal paintings?”
”Royal paintings?”
”Yes, the Lord commissions them to be painted so that future generations will know there past sires. It also assists in trait identification.”
”How so?”
”For example, Inu Yasha and I look like our father and his father. Our former Uncle looked more like a three time great father. By determining whom the babe looks mostly like it is possible to determine what their qualities will be and their powers.”
”Wow, and what if the baby has no past qualities?” Kagome stood next to the bed entranced.

“They are allowed to grow and if it is believe the child is fathered by a different man then her mate or husband, the child is tested and if it is true the mother is killed and the child exiled.”
”That's horrible!” Kagome looked appalled at how Sesshomaru could talk about this as if it was an everyday thing while he lay propped up on one side staring at her. “What of your children, has their ever been a mating like ours? Would you do that to me?”
”While there are no records of a Miko and a full blood, like myself, mating, I doubt we have reason to worry. As for your second question, no, I would never do that to you. Mates and husbands may stand up in defense for their mates and charges are dropped. I may play a cold demon to the people outside of this room, however, I could never throw the one person I have sworn to protect, into the wilderness, no matter how powerful she is.”

“Thank you? I think. But are you not worried about our children being hanyou? It's taken you this long to accept Inu Yasha and at times you still don't like him.”
”While it is true I do not like the hanyou, I do not hate him. I hate that I was too weak to provide him with what he needed and was unable to allow him to be raised, as he should have been. I have explained this to him and while I believe he understands, I believe only time will tell. Inside this room, I will allow you to see who I am, but outside I must be a strong Lord. Our children will either be demon, like myself, with powers from you, or they will be hanyou, leaning towards you with the strength of a demon. My traits will dominate yours, and with you being a demon now, I'm am more curious to see how our pups will look.”
Kagome turned her head slightly in confusion. Sesshomaru pushed the covers aside and pulled her to his body before covering them again. “Pups?”

“Yes, we are dog demons after all.”
”So cat demons have kits. And bear demons have cubs?”

“I am sure that they have names for their babes as well but it is not of my breed to know what goes on in theirs.”
Kagome thought for a minute then nodded. She rolled over to look him in the eyes. “What do you see when you look into my eyes?”

Taken back by the question, Sesshomaru froze. “I can not honestly say. Each time I look into them I see something new. Like right now I see a field of flowers with children running around. Earlier I saw years of battles. Yesterday I saw a death of a loved one in your past. Then there are times when I feel like I'm drowning and can't breath. A time like this one, when I look and I'm begging my heart to show me what love is, just so I could truly taste you.”

“Oh.” Kagome blushed and buried her face into his bare chest.
Sesshomaru laughed and growled in content. “There is something I would like to talk to you about mate. Two things if you will listen?”

“You have my attention.” Kagome murmured into his chest still blushing.

“Due to the circumstances of our mating we didn't have a proper courtship. A courtship is when we exchange gifts multiple times to show the receiving person what we can offer them. I realize it is too late for this but I would like to give you gifts to symbolize what I can offer you. Is this acceptable?”
”Yes. It is fine.” Kagome shyly looked up into his face. “Wait, quick question, why no fangs last night?”

“It is a great test of trust to allow any female to do what you did last night. Many males do not allow a female to come as close as would be need to perform the said act. While I trust you, my beast was uncomfortable with the idea. By asking you to not use fangs, I was merely keeping him calm enough so as I could keep control. We do trust you, it is just that sometimes females will reject their mate or strike out against them and…will remove the organ.” Kagome flinched and nodded. “May I continue?”

“Yes.”

“Secondly, I would like to discuss your mating with my beast tomorrow night.”
”Damn I forgot about that.” She growled.

“I figured as much. It will be for most of the night, he will not harm you, so do not fear. However we need to discuss… well pups.”
”Are you embarrassed?” Kagome looked up and laughed lightly at his slightly pink expression.

Ignoring her question he continued. “If you wish to wait to have pups, now would be the time to voice it. While an heir is to be expected, I am in no hurry to place you in that position. You will mostly likely have a single pup, however it is very possible for you to have a litter. My demon, until he has mated with you, will not allow me to pup you. He however can pup you himself or if you don't want to have one now, he can hold back a little and leave you un-pupped.”
”Oh.” Kagome thought about it for a moment. She did what to have kids of her own but was it too soon? “What is a litter? Do you want a… pup? And how long is the pregnancy?”
”You can carry 1 to 8 pups for up to 6 months. While I am still young, I feel that this is more your choice then mine. We do not know each other well and I do no want you to believe that this is all I want from you. I truly wish to spend the rest of our lives in happiness together in love.”

“Kami, that many? For that short of time? I could die!”
”It is very unlikely. You are an Inu demon; you will heal if something should happen. Your body will change to accommodate the pups, so you are comfortable. The only pain you may feel is when you deliver them. That will be the tiring part.”
”Hn. And your beast? What does he want?”
”You will not wish to know.”
”Oh.”
In truth he wished he didn't know. His beast was the more savage of his being. It wanted her on her hands and knees so he could fuck her until she was bleeding or pupped.

“May we try a…position that he will want tomorrow so that he can see what your reaction is?”
”I guess.” Kagome let him explain how he wanted her and was unsurprised. “So you want to do this like animals?” She knelt looking back at him as he knelt behind her.

“It is a natural position.” Was all that was said and her pushed her upper body down.

Sesshomaru lined himself up with her and guided himself into her body. She was wet and tight. His control was stretched thin in this position and he knew it would be hard not to accidentally hurt her. He sheathed himself in her and was happy when she fit all of him inside her.
”Does this hurt?” He asked to make sure.

Kagome let out a moan already lost in the feeling. Sesshomaru smiled and started an easy rhythm.

“You don't have to hold back, Sesshomaru. I'll tell you if you start to hurt me. It's not fair that you pleasure me and get very little for the effort.”
Sesshomaru waited a moment, unmoving, before leaned over her back. One hand was braced on the bed the other squeezed her left breast. He licked her neck. “Tell me if I hurt you.” He growled causing her to shiver and become wetter around his penis. He grew harder from the feeling and began to pound without mercy into her tight passage. She moaned below him lost to the sensations of his hand on her breast and his movements.

Sesshomaru pounded as fast and as hard as he could into her. His right hand leaving her breast to move to rub the muscles between her legs. Kagome screamed his name as she came, but he wasn't done. He balls were tightening signaling his release. He leaned next to her ear and observed the unmarked flesh. His fangs grew sharper and he let the poison collect at the tips before biting the nap of her neck. Kagome came again and tried to toss her head back but couldn't. Sesshomaru let his venom flood her body as he spilled his seed into her womb.

They both collapsed, Sesshomaru on top of Kagome. He released her neck and pulled out from her body to get off her. Kagome lay on the bed breathing heavily. She felt sick but light headed at the same time. Sesshomaru pulled her to his chest and held her tightly.

She now carried his mark. A mark only he would see.

Kagome felt the venom moving through her blood settling at the small of her back across the waist. It burned and itched but she didn't dare touch it.

“What did you do?” She asked anything but upset.

“I have marked you with my crest.” He pulled back to observe his poison as it tattooed her back just above her butt. The paw showed up first. Surrounded by two crescent moons wrapped in sakura blossoms. The poison then fanned out to make weaved treadles, which disappeared at her hipbone. The mark was red and faded to blue. Happy with it he pulled her back against him.

“What does it look like?”
”You may look in the morning. But right now it is time to sleep, you have a busy day tomorrow.”
”Hn.” Kagome sighed and fell asleep.

Sesshomaru let his mask fall and smiled down at her, brushing hair from her face. “Maybe eternity with you won't be so bad.” He whispered. He hated to admit it but he was glad things had turned out so bad, it was evident in his mind that out of the men he had face only he or his brother could ever make her happy. You ever hurt her I will forever bind you. He thought to his beast.

If I should? What about you? You hurt her and you will never have control of this body.

Then it is settled, we will never hurt her.

Or let anyone else hurt her.

Agreed.

Sesshomaru lie there holding his mate and after an hour, fell into a light sleep.

 

Inu Yasha sat in his father's, and Sesshomaru's, chair behind the desk, in the study. He was bored. Tonight Kagome would see Sesshomaru's beast. Totosai was almost there and some spider bitch was running around complaining the clothing of everyone was crappy. He was annoyed and tired. Most of all though he missed his Kagome's smiling face. Ya, she belonged to his brother now but that didn't mean he couldn't be a big brother or even a protector. He sighed and slammed his head on the desk. The mixed auras in the room were messing with him. It felt like his father was there. He had never met the old man but he still knew his scent and aura anywhere. The faint hum of it washed over his skin.

“I wish you were here Father.” He whispered feeling like a puppy all over again instead of a man. Something ghosted over his skin and ruffled the scrolls on the desk.

 

Kagome felt her mate at her back. Today would be the big day. She doubted they would leave the room. Everyone had to be worried for her.

“Mate.” Something growled from behind her. It wasn't Sesshomaru.

Kagome froze. Oh she was screwed. “You took control when he went to sleep.”

His response was nuzzling her neck. She felt him inhale and purr, but remained motionless unsure if she should like it or be afraid.

“Mate.” He growled again.

“Your not Sesshomaru and I'm not sure you would appreciate being called `beast' or `it' so lets start with your name shall we?”

“Shunkai.” He growled.

“Nice to…be held by you.” Kagome rolled her eyes at her lame greeting. “I understand you would like to…mate, but I want to get to know you first. Is that acceptable? Maybe we could eat?”

“It is.” The demon replied not letting her go.

“I will order something. What do you like?”

“Meat. Raw. Bloody.”

Kagome listened to him speak and realized that this was the more savage side of all demons. Half or full. “Oh. Well why don't you let me get up so we can eat? The faster we get this done that faster you get what you want.”

Shunkai thought about this for a moment and agreed. He let her go, dressed, dropped the barrier, ran to the kitchen, returned to the room, replaced the barrier, set the food on the nightstand, undressed, and returned to bed, all before his mate too a breath.

Kagome was surprised to see the silver tray appear out of nowhere. It had almost a half a slab of raw meat on it, and a bunch of grapes.

Kagome gulped and tried to sit up. She couldn't move however. “Let us eat and talk.” She said gently so as not to piss her mate's beast off. Instead of being released however, she felt his erection press up against the butt. Kagome's eyes widened, how the hell was she suppose to fit that inside her? He had to be as big as her forearm and as long as it too.

Shunkai sensed her fear and began to worry himself. He and Sesshomaru had talked about this and finally having her in his arms he began to doubt he could fit, let alone not hurt her, she was small and fragile and it worried him.

Gathering her courage Kagome pushed the fear back and inhaled. “May I look upon your face?” She felt his arms loosen and rolled over and scooted away a bit so she could look into his face. He looked like her Sesshomaru. Wait my Sesshomaru? Ugh have to think about that later. He had red eyes and more jagged markings but it still looked like him. His muscles were bigger and more pronounced but not too much so he looked bad. He reached up to caress her cheek and she caught sharper claws out of the corner of her eyes. He touched her skin and it lit a fire that went all the way to her toes and up to her brain. She pressed her cheek more firmly into his skin and purred. Something inside her was happy, and just wanted him to do whatever he wanted, she trusted him. His eyes proved he would try his best not to hurt her.

“Sesshomaru has explained to me the extent of this. We never decided last night on something. He wanted to know if I wanted pups. But he never answered my question. Does he want pups?”
Shunkai stared at her a minute waiting for Sesshomaru to answer.

You're a bastard you know that? Sesshomaru growled from inside his mind.

Maybe so but I warned you, now give me an answer.

Sesshomaru snarled a fought to try and get control but lost. Tell her yes I want pups.

Shunkai broke the connection and focused on his confused mate.

“Your Sesshomaru would like pups. What of you?” He pulled her close and hoped she did too.

“I do, but at the same time I don't.” Kagome muttered.

His heart sunk thinking she wanted pups but not with him. Then anger took over.

Kagome sensed the change in the demon holding her and quickly explained. “As you know I come from a different time. In that era women do not have children until they are much older then I am. However, I have always wanted a child of my own since a few years ago when I met Shippo. I just don't know if I would be a good mom to my own child.” Kagome looked away from the intense stare of Shunkai. “Don't get me wrong, but Shippo and Rin are both my children, but I didn't give birth to them or raise them.”
”You will be a good mother.” Shunkai smiled at her and toned down his appearance. He wasn't at war, he was here, alone, with his mate. His eyes faded to a sunset orange and he forced his fangs and claws back to their shorter forms. Kagome watched the change and smiled as he turned from a killer to a lover.

“Do you want pups?” Kagome looked up innocently into his eyes.

Shunkai became lost in the depths of her eyes. “Yes.”

“How many?”

“Hundreds.”

Kagome coughed and he looked startled. “What?” She gasped.

“We will live for thousands of years, is it so bad to want many pups.”
”Look here mister, I don't mind giving you a few but I'm not going to be knocked up for the rest of my life.” She poked him in the chest and glared angrily.

Taken by surprise by her change of moods, Shunkai did the only thing he could think of. He pulled her close and licked her neck. Unsure of what she had really said he petted her hair and rubbed her back.

Kagome moan as he rubbed her back. It was under his touch did she realize she was so tense.

“Lay of your stomach.” Her companion ordered. Kagome looked at him with one eyebrow raised. “Please.”

Kagome pulled away and lay on her stomach, her left side pressed into his body. Her arms were folded under her head as she stretched out.

Shunkai tossed the covers off of them and exposed both him and her to the cool room.

Kagome was glad she was on her stomach, the cool had hardened her nipples and she wasn't ready to take that step with Shunkai yet. Taking the chance she observed him, he was more muscular then Sesshomaru, maybe taller, and had a few more scars then Sesshomaru. She looked at his erection and understood why Sesshomaru had worried.

Shunkai smelt her arousal and held back a growl. He had caught pieces of it from his prison but now it was full force, and he was intoxicated. He pushed back the fog and moved to straddle her thighs intent on relaxing her. He started at her neck and worked his way down.

Something with their position aroused her further. She felt his legs against hers and wanted to moan that the strength she felt there. Plus his erection was rubbing against her butt and lower back as his hands pressed into her back.

“Tell me something about yourself, something you like but Sesshomaru doesn't.” Her words ended in a moan as his fingers lightly moved over the edges of her breasts.

“I like spicy foods and he doesn't. He likes to toy with an enemy and I like to just kill them. I love to just sit and watch the moon. When we were little, I'd fight him for control just to go play in the storms, then when we were about to get caught I'd let him have control, and he would end up getting a cold.”
”Oh, so you are the trouble-maker of the two.”

“You could say that. I am much more animalist in my choices then he is. But I'm not completely savage. We went through the same education and studies, I just don't see the point in some of his reason.”

“If you are so equal them why does he have control more?”
”As you have said, I am the trouble-marker, I will search out a fight and kill just to make the point I am above everyone.”

“Oh.” Kagome lay there thinking while he continued massaging her.

“What do you like? I have observed you, but I would like you to tell me.”

“I like to walk at night under the stars. I hate the ocean. I love the outdoors. I think of this era more of a home then my era. And when I first met you I thought you were a Kami with a stick up his ass.”
Taken back at her bluntness, Shunkai reflected on their first meeting and began to laugh.

“I'm being honest here.” Kagome defended.

Smiling he leaned down and pressed his body to her back. “When I first saw you I decided you would be mine. The fight in the clearing was already decided. If Sesshomaru couldn't win I would take control and would kill anyone who stopped me. He may have deigned any feeling for you until just recently, but I have watched from my prison in wait; planning ways to make you mine. I'll have to admit Sesshomaru has made my prison very strong, but not even he can hold me if it involves you, my little Kagome.” He licked her neck, having cleared it a while ago of her hair. He nipped at the flesh and sealed his lips there sucking and biting at the flesh.

Kagome moaned and groaned under his assault. He stopped, pulled back and licked her from the middle of her back up to the shell of her ear. “Tell me Kagome. Why do you fight so hard not to love us?”
”I'm not…”She began.

Shunkai nipped at the soft flesh of her side. “Do not lie to me.” He softly reprimanded.

“Where I come from, it takes time to love someone. I find it disturbing that my heart aches for you, just looking at you. I think it is wrong.”

“No you don't. What would you do if I took that kiss you are holding from me, and many others?” He nuzzled her neck.

“Honestly I don't know. I want it to be for love, not some emotion that is more lust then anything else.” Kagome replied as he bit her again.

“But you like our attention and actions. How is that lust?”
”Love is when you feel a burning hot sensation in your heart that you feel for no one else. Lust is the feeling in the pit of your stomach what is never able to reach your heart. You enjoy the feeling purely for sexual pleasures and nothing more. I enjoy your actions and while at times I have a warm feeling in my heart, I question if it is really love. I don't know if it is love or a lust for your body and beauty. Just like I question you. You look at me and could say anything to get what you want, but that doesn't mean you mean what you say. I trust you to respect me enough to not take something from me.”

Thinking about what his mate had said Shunkai weighed the options. He would do anything for that kiss, but he did respect her enough not to force it. Stuck between two rocks he growled. “I want it, much like the children want your edible gifts you bring them. You say I respect you, and while it is true, we have never been told no, or that we have to wait. It is annoying.”

“You are a Lord. No one can tell you no. But as your equal, I'm telling you no this time because it is the only I have not had the liberty of indulging in the proper way.”
”Explain.” Shunkai leaned back and moved off his mate wanting to hear more. He had after all never known her personally and she had captivated him.

“Since I was a little girl, younger then Rin, I wanted my first kiss to be for true love. It didn't happen. My first kiss was used to save Inu Yasha in Kaguya's castle. So I changed my dream slightly and told myself my next kiss would be for true love. Again it didn't happen. I kissed Inu Yasha to stop him from turning into his demon during a battle with Naraku here a few months back before you joined us. I've never been kissed for true love, one of my few dreams. And while it wasn't my first or second kiss, maybe the third time will bring me luck.”

He understood what she wanted. He wanted to be that person to give her anything she ever wanted. “I understand, and so does Sesshomaru, we are not pleased you have kissed the hanyou, but as you have said it was for alternate reasons. Your heart is big, and one day we wish to be apart of it.”

Kagome smiled at him. “I am grateful you understand my wish. Now I believe you are here for a reason.”
”I am. Do you wish to be rid of me already?” He chuckled.

“No, and I'm not enthused with what little I know of you but, I am a lady of my word. I have learned a little about you and find myself unable to deny you what you want.”

“Thank you mate. But I'm doing to have to decline, and ask that you accompany me to a meal first.”

Taken back Kagome blushed and nodded. She sat up from her position and climbed off the bed. Shunkai watched her stand and smiled at her beauty.

“I would like to ask that maybe I could pick out what you wear?” He watched her walk to the closet and began to flick through the boring kimonos.

Kagome thought about it and finally found nothing wrong with it. “Alright.” She waited for him to pick something out.

Shunkai quickly made a connection with his other half.

She will wear mother's special kimono.

Sesshomaru growled. Why do you wish to do this?

Kagome deserves to be treated like a mate, not a whore. While I will take her, I wish to be a man, not a savage sex deprived pup.

Nothing of our mother's will fit her. Sesshomaru smirked.

Her special robe our sire made for her will.

It is…acceptable.

Shunkai broke the connection and stood quickly dressing himself properly. “I will return in a moment, I ask that you do not leave or let anyone in until I return.” Kagome nodded and watched as he left the room dressed like Sesshomaru.

 

It wasn't long before Shunkai returned with a servant carried a small bundle of fabric. He took it from the girl and dismissed her shutting the door and placing the barrier back.

“This use to be our mother's kimono before she died. Our father made if from his own fur woven together.” The silver kimono looked like it was a pure sheet of flowing moonlight. It was embroidered with a similar thread. “The patterns are of his crest, our family crest. It is a similar pattern to the one we placed on you last night with our poison. You are immune to all levels of poison unless it is from us.” He handed her the kimono.

Kagome bowed and stared at in awe. She didn't deserve to wear something so valuable.

“I can't wear this.” She whispered.

“No harm will come to it. It is woven from our sires demonic fur, which means it, cannot be cut or stained.”

“Are you sure, I mean this was your mothers.”
”We are sure.”

Kagome nodded and turned to unfold it on the bed. The kimono was just stunning. Looking back at her mate he encouraged he with a nod. Being gentle with the fabric she pulled it on over her slip. The obi was a midnight blue. Shunkai stepped forward to tie it around her waist properly. When she was done he produced an ivory comb and placed it in her hair, pulling the left side of her hair back.

Kagome blushed under his eyes, as he looked he over. Unsure if he approved or not Kagome twirled. “Does it look okay?”
Sesshomaru from his prison, and Shunkai stared at her with awe. Their mother had looked breathtaking in the kimono when he was little, but Kagome, she had no words to describe her. The material emphasized her breasts and hips. It was slit on one side showing the creamy pale skin of her left leg. The most important feature was the effect of the silver. It gave her a urethral look that made him feel like the ugly duckling. She smiled at him and unsure of what to do he smiled back. “There are no words to describe how beautiful you look.” She smiled and giggled stepping into a pair of her own shoes. The Greek sandal went perfectly with the kimono, the ties wrapping around her calf and around her knee. Shunkai was drooling when she looked up at smile at him again. She felt uncomfortable in the kimono knowing his mother, who had died, had worn this. Seeing him drooling was cute. She giggled and stood. He mate seemed to snap out of it and with a slight annoyance wiped the liquid from the side of his mouth. “My Lord.” She purred stepping up to him so that they almost touched. “I believe it is time we attend the evening meal.”

Shunkai's mind raced questioning why he wanted to eat again. His body went on auto-pilot. Offering his arm, to lead her down to lunch.

The servant stopped their chores and openly started. Their Lord stood tall and proud as he walked with his mate. They know it wasn't their normal Lord but his beast and was afraid. The looked at Kagome with fascination and Kagome fought not to hide from the stares.

“My Lord? When we are done with our quest, what will we do?”

Shunkai know she was trying to distract herself. “We will return and take things as they come. Maybe even start our family?”
”Boy or girl?” She looked up him.

“It is to be expected a son be born first so that he may take my place as Lord someday.” He stopped and pulled her closely whispering in her ear so that no one could hear his next words. “However, I want a girl. One that looks like you.” He kissed her ear and began to lead her again.

Kagome was blushing still by the time they sat down at the table. The servants had summoned the children and the others to eat. Shippo and Rin arrived first. They ran and tackled Kagome who was in mid-sentence. Both children began to cry and Kagome quickly shushed them. After a few moments holding each other Rin looked up at her Lord and froze. She pulled away from her mother and bowed low to the ground.

“Master Lord Sesshomaru. Please forgive this Rin.”

“Stand Rin. We are in no danger. I have taken control only for a small time.” Shunkai didn't move from the chair he sat on.

“Yes Master Lord Sesshomaru.” Rin stood formally and moved to her seat not saying anything else.

Shippo watched the exchange feeling sorry for Rin. He knew the demon Lord wasn't who he normally was but he was calm and happy; or so his aura said. He held on to his mother until Inu Yasha, Miroku, and Sango joined them.

“About time you let he eat you bastard.” Inu Yasha remarked just steps into the dining hall.

“Inu Yasha.” Kagome hissed.
Shunkai raised one silver eyebrow and reached out for his mate's hand. Kagome took it knowing he was trying to stay calm. “You would do well to watch your language in my presents Inu Yasha.”

Kagome took a deep breath and made a note to thank him later for not killing her sometimes-stupid best friend.

“Keh.”

Sango smiled to Kagome and bowed to the demon Lord, followed by Miroku.

Inu Yasha sat down next to Shippo who had taken his seat next to Rin. Sango set next to her long-time friend. Miroku next to her.

The servants brought out the food and left quickly.

“You have made your impression on the staff My Lord.” Kagome joked taking a bite of her cabbage salad.

Shunkai stared at her and held back a smile. “It is my duty to make sure everything runs as it should. They rightly fear me.”

“Huh.” Kagome cleaned the plate and waited for the next course.

“When are we leaving?” Inu Yasha growled.

“In the next few days.” Kagome sighed. “I think we should go back to the village and head east. Kohaku has had some experience with Koga and the wolves. Maybe they will know something. From there we will head South. We really need to keep an eye open down there. The last few times it was a nasty mess traveling.”
”The panther's that rule the South never stay in power long. It is a war zone. When one comes to power then die within the week and another takes his place.” Shunkai offered.

“I think if I can get a basic direction if I'm within a certain range of Kohaku. Hopefully it'll be a further range them what it was. I've been having these really weird lessons flashing through my head at the most random of time.” Kagome waved her hand around. Everyone shared a glance but said nothing.

“So asshole, what are you going to do? Kagome is our shard detector. Are you going to follow her like the dog you are or are you going to be a guard dog and watch the palace?” Inu Yasha teased.

Shunkai squeezed his mate's hand under the table. “I will attend the hunt. If I can be of assistance I will be there. Kagome and I have already talked about the arrangements. I have also been thinking and if it is possible, I would like to try and revive the boy. He will be like he was before Naraku took control of him. Tensaiga can do this if the boy is undamaged.”
”What do you mean undamaged?” Sango began to fear the worse.

“If he has been mutilated beyond recognition or at one time completely destroyed. The boy must retain his original body with no life threatening wounds, such as being decapitated.”

“We haven't had much contact with him in the last few years. Each time we ran into him though he seemed fine.”
”Don't worry Sango, he will be fine.” Kagome reassured her friend. “I can use the jewel if I have too.”
”No Kagome, don't do that. The wish has to be pure.”

“It will be. Don't worry. Somehow you'll have your brother back.”

“Thank you Kagome. Sesshomaru.”
Both nodded.

The rest of lunch was uneventful. Inu Yasha reported Totosai was hours away from the gates and the other woman had arrived. With some quick orders, Shunkai and Kagome returned to their rooms.

 

Shunkai replaced the barrier and wrapped his arms around his mate. He pulled her close wanting to take her up on her offer.

“Thank you for not killing Inu Yasha.” Kagome mumbled as she tilted her head to the side.

“The pup is young, I do not appreciate being insulted, but he does not know better.” Shunkai mover her hair to one side and pulled the collar of the kimono down.

Kagome moan as his tongue traced a fine line on her skin.

“Are you ready for me mate?”
”I hope so.” Kagome let him undress her and himself.

She lay on the bed and watched as his strong form walked towards her. He clawed between her legs and kissed his way up her body.

“As much as I love you stare into your eyes. This way will now be comfortable for you. Sesshomaru barely fits inside of you this way. I regret to ask you to turn over.”
Kagome rolled over without a problem. She understood and even though she was disappointed she knew someday he wouldn't have to just take her from behind.
”This is the final time I will ask my mate, do you want pups? You are still fertile, so if you say yes, after this you will be pregnant.”

Kagome knelt on her knees and leaned down to rest on her forearms. “I…I want pups.” She smiled at the words.

Shunkai let out a breath he didn't know he had been holding. Leaning down he licked her entrance a couple of times before kneeling behind her and placing himself at her opening.

“Relax mate. We don't want to hurt you, if at any point it hurts you must say something.”
”Alright.”

Kagome whimpered as the man pushed his extremely large erection in her slowly. It didn't hurt as much as she had thought. It was more uncomfortable then anything. He stretched her to her limits. Then after what seemed forever he hit something inside her so deep it was surprising. Kagome screamed as she orgasmed.

Shunkai felt her muscles squeezing him and fought not to cum. “Kami, you feel so good.” He growled as his length pulsed. He fit inside her, though it was tight.

Kagome groaned as he stopped moving, grateful he was giving her a chance to get use to him.

“When we cum together and my seed spills inside of you, you have to focus enough to try and purify me.”

Kagome snapped out of her dazed state. “What!”

“Your miko energy will bind with my own energies. You are already immune to poison, this will make me immune to holy powers. The next round you will be relaxed enough to take me from the front, that is when we will fully mate.”
Kagome stuttered out an `okay'. How can he be so blunt about this?

Shunkai waited a few more moments before pulling gently back and pushing in again.

Kagome screamed as she came from just a few short strokes. Behind her, Shunkai chuckled. “Don't that feel good mate?”

Kagome couldn't form any words. She instead pressed her ass against his hip and pressed him deeper inside her.

Shunkai growled as she pressed against him. “It is our first time, do not start something that we know you can't handle.”

“You're holding back. Let me decide if I can handle it or not.”

She received a snarl as he pulled almost out and slammed into her until his balls slapped against her. He repeated it until she couldn't tell if he was pulling out or pushing in. The feelings all mixed together and she was lost under it all.

Shunkai let go and leaned across her back to penetrate deeper. One clawed hand reached up and wrapped itself in her hair. “Remember mate, this is who I am.” He snarled ripping her head back and returning to kneel behind her. One hand tightly wrapped in her hair pulling her head back, the other hand clutching her hip.

Kagome groaned. She didn't like pain; she didn't really know what sex was about other then confessing your love to a person and to pleasure the opposite sex. This however was indescribable. It hurt, she would have a headache for sure but that plus his intense and rapid thrusting did something inside her that screamed for more. She could feel every movement and breath he made. Something around them was happening. The tension was building; it started in her stomach and built until she couldn't hold herself up anymore. Like a coil the tension snapped and Kagome screamed, feeling her partner snap also she took her cue and put all her ki into trying to purify him. The jewel that hung around her neck flared and multiplied her ki ten-fold. There was a blinding flash of blue light. Shunkai howled and fell on to her back, unable to support them both Kagome collapse onto her stomach. She was physically and mentally exhausted. However Shunkai was still hard inside her and by the feeling of it, he, like most dogs, had tied with her.

Shunkai groaned. Her power felt like it had ripped his flesh away and tore at everything inside him, burning his bones. He had badly underestimated her power. He didn't even think she had half of what he got hit with. Summoning the power to move, he wrapped her in his arms and rolled them to their sides so he wasn't crushing her. Looking over her head he thanked the Kamis that he had put up a strong barrier. The walls and surrounding furniture was charred from the ki emitted from the tiny Miko.

“Are you okay?” He choked out.

Kagome felt her eyelids drooping. She didn't have the energy to answer let alone make a motion to answer his question.

“Kagome?” Shunkai waited a moment before speaking again. “Kagome!?” He began to worry when she didn't answer. He knew she was alive but being who she was he began to wonder if it was such a good idea that they do what they did. After all they could have waited a month or two, but he would never tell her that. No he wanted his turn, no matter what the cost. He knew she would heal. “You will answer me Mate.” He snarled beginning to get angry.

Kagome opened her mouth to tell him to go to hell but she instead let out a squeak. Swallowing in hopes to wet her dry mouth and throat, Kagome tried again. Unable to form any kind of words she focused on the ability to move and forced weak muscles to pres into Shunkai's chest.

“We will rest for a bit. You may sleep mate.” Shunkai felt the shame in forcing this on his mate, hit him full force. She was the Shikon Miko, but she was also a just turned demon, former human, with no experience in the sexual field. He made a mental note to apologize later and get her a gift, something personable rather then physical.

Kagome growled but used the last drop of her energy to curl up and sleep.

 

Shunkai felt his mate fall asleep. He knew by her actions she had thrown all her ki at him. He was proud of her secretly. He had only expected her to hit him with a blast equal to her practice arrows. Pulling Kagome closer to him he inhaled her scent. The holy ki she had expelled was binding with his demonic youki. It was a truly odd feeling for him. An image of Sesshomaru's misfortune at the village a day from the castle flashed through his mind. He smiled and chuckled enjoying the knowledge that her miko ki couldn't harm him unless she wanted it to. Much like his poison.

She is a good woman.

Your lucky she is alive. What foolishness went though your mind to believe she could survive your actions? Sesshomaru pulled at his bindings

I warned her, much like when you took her from behind. I may keep control much longer then planned. It has been awhile since you let me out to play.

We have business to attend to. This one will make a deal with you, but I need control or else her quest will never be done. If her quest does not finish, then we do not get a real chance to gain her trust, and later her love.

I hate it when you're right. I will keep control from the next two sunrises and relinquish control on the second day during the sunset.

No matter where or when. This one will regain control.

Agreed. But do not expect to be able to breed for the next few days afterwards.

She is pupped what more do you want?

I do not have to explain myself, you are aware of my wishes as much as me.

The connection was cut much to Sesshomaru's annoyance. Shunkai smiled and relished in his control. Deciding to let her rest until dawn he shifted to pull her closer and waited out the time before his Mate woke again.

 

Kagome was still tired when she stirred. She probably would still be asleep if not for two things; one, the sun shining right in her eyes, and two, the insufferable, sex-crazed man teasing her. It was too early and she was tired, did he really have to do this now?
”Leave me alone.” She grumbled pushing his head off her stomach here he was kissing.

Shunkai wasn't sure how to react. He knew she was just awaking up but she was awake enough to know what she was saying. His expression changed from surprise to anger and a puppy-pout. “Mate, it is time to finish what you started.”

“Leave me alone, I'm not in the mood.” Kagome rolled away from him, the sheets tangled around her waist giving an unhidden view of her back and calves.

He kissed her back, licking up her spine, in hope to bring her around. He was painfully hard, and it wasn't sitting well that she was ignoring her duty to relieve him.

“I am, and as Lord, and you as my Mate, are bound by duty to do as I say. And I'm saying I'm in the mood.” Shunkai nipped at her shoulders. He used his hand to elevate him over her body and he began to press against her skin.

Kagome grew annoyed. She could feel his aura closing in on her. Why couldn't she just sleep? Reaching up with a hand she pressed into his sculpted chest and pressed against his on coming weigh.

Caught off guard by her shove, Shunkai found himself pushed off the bed and onto the floor. Kagome heard him hit the floor and smiled, pulling the sheets over her head and falling into a light sleep.

Shunkai was in shock. Inside his head Sesshomaru chuckled at him. Which irritate him even more.

Angry that his mate was rejecting him like she was, Shunkai took a smaller form of his animal form and attacked. Kagome growled in annoyance as something landed on the bed and ripped the blankets away. She rolled over about to give whoever was bugging her apiece of her mind. Her eyes met the eyes of a red eyed, pissed off, white dog, the size of a German Shepard

“Damnit, all I want is sleep. One extra hour of sleep.” Showing no fear Kagome stared the dog in the eyes.

Shunkai snarled. He told her to submit but instead she began to challenge him. He warned her again but she did nothing but stare at him. He lept at her, getting under her defense and gripped her throat, pushing her back against the bed. Kagome was surprised, she didn't know what to do, and she struggled against the thing she knew was her mate. He bit down harder on her throat effectively cutting off her airway and causing her to bleed.

 

Sesshomaru watched in mild humor as his other half dealt with their mate's need to sleep in late. It was only when he began to see that his other half was not amused that he began to fear for her. He knew she didn't have all the instincts of a demon, but his other half didn't register this. It believed that since she was technically a demon, she knew what was right and wrong. He knew better. Once his other half grabbed her throat he knew it was time to get control back. He fought his restraints and attacked his own mind in effort to take control.

 

Shunkai felt Sesshomaru trying to take control. He took his mind, so to speak, off of his fighting mate and turned it towards his other half, unconsciously biting harder down on his mate's throat.

 

Kagome whimpered. She could feel her blood running down her neck. She wasn't sure what was going on, had she done something wrong? Why was he doing this? She was so confused.

 

Sesshomaru broke his bindings and made the next and final step in taking control. Grabbing his other half's mind he forced him into the chains rushing to take control.

Letting go of Kagome's throat he backed up, head down. Forcing himself to return to his form he waited for Kagome to register it was him.

“Sess..” He once beautiful voice was scratchy. She coughed from the effort, splattering the sheets with blood. Breathing was just as bad as he saw bubbles around the puncture marks.

“Shush. I have control again. You are safe. Relax so that I may heal you.”

“Scared.” Kagome gurgled out.

“I know I was too.” He admitted honestly.

“Why?”

“Shush, I'll explain when you have healed.” He approached her slowly and leaned down placing his face next to her neck. Kagome tensed for a moment. Sesshomaru was at a loss, she wasn't scared of him, but she was still unsure of what was going on. “I'm going to lick the wounds until they heal. Inu saliva has healing properties, I'm sure Inu Yasha has done this a few times.”
”No.” Kagome coughed. Although she could breath again somewhat, she could feel her lungs slowly filling with blood.

Sesshomaru took advantage of her momentary distraction and licked one of the holes in her neck. Her blood was unlike anything he had tasted. It wasn't metallic like other blood, but sweet like honey. One hand moved to cradle her head while the other cupped her cheek.

He healed the first set of bite marks and moved onto her other side to heal the last set.

Kagome lay still. She could feel her heart still rapidly beating from the experience with Shunkai. She couldn't for the life of her figure out why he attacked her. She, after all, only wanted to sleep a little longer.

Sesshomaru finished healing her and sat back up elegantly. He was angry. Not at her but at himself for not stopping his other half sooner. He wouldn't even listen to his beast explain. He knew what went wrong, but he was pissed that it couldn't figure out the simple-minded things. It had watched her from their first encounter thought his eyes. They both knew she was naïve and fragile. Thinking more on the subject he only became angrier.

Kagome watched Sesshomaru. She could tell he was very angry. “Please don't be angry with me, I didn't know what was going on.” She curled up into herself upset.

“I am not angry with you Kagome, but at myself and my beast. We have harmed you, and if you were a normal female Inu, you would have know what to do, but since you are not, a thing he knew, you are not to be at blame. For his insolence I must apologize.”

“What should I have done?”

“To him, he feels that women are to be dominated and he is superior to them. When you said no he felt you were trying to take over as the dominant individual of our relationship. A normal female Inu would have bared her neck and backed down giving into his needs.”
”But I'm not normal.” Kagome felt tears start to well up.

“No, however, I am aware of this and through me he is too. He is, as he said, more animalistic in his ways.”

“Will you teach me what I'm suppose to do?”

“No.” Sesshomaru's voice held a note that said it was final.

“Why not?”

“You have not asked me to change, by instructing you in the proper ways of us Inu, I will be changing who you are. Our customs take lifetimes to learn, I could not ask you to go through that and lose your…light, to my darkness.” Sesshomaru was becoming uncomfortable with the conversation, but he could tell Kagome was calming down and that is what mattered at the time.

“Is there anything you will teach me?”
”No, unless I feel it is in your best interest and will not change you.”

“Explain.”

“I will not allow you to learn my customs however, if you should wish, after some time, to learn to fight with different weapons, other then your bow, I will allow it.”

“Why do you not want to change me? I figured you'd want to because I'm too human.”

“Your humanity does not concern me anymore. You look like an Inu and as the Shikon Miko I see it pointless to remain in the past.”

“So as long as I look like I'm a demon you don't care?”

“I did not say that.”

“In shorter words you did.”

“No, I am saying I and your friends know who you really are, while you look like an Inu it is only for the other Lords and Ladies.”

“That's not what you said before.” Kagome nagged.

“It is what I meant.”

“I'm sure.” Kagome snorted teasingly. Sesshomaru caught on to her little game and quirked an eyebrow. Kagome relaxed and uncurled to stretch out. “Sesshomaru, will I live to see my family?”

“Yes.”

“Will we ever travel the world?”
”The world?”
Kagome let out a frustrated sigh; she hated it sometimes when people didn't know about the future stuff. “This land is not the only land. There is an entire world around us. To the west is what will be called, or is called in not sure, is China. To the East is what will be called the United States of America. We live on islands, some of the islands are hundreds of times bigger then Endo.”
”You will show me one of your pictures of our world?”

“I can bring you one, but you must be very careful with it. No one but you, my friends, and me can see it. No one can know about the future.”
”I understand. You have my word.”

Kagome smiled. Next time she went to the future she would defiantly bring him back a map of the world, but maybe she would dig up more of her allowance and get him maps of each continent or maybe terrain maps. It would be like a mating gift.

“I again apologize for my beast Kagome.”
”Look Sesshomaru, it was an accident. I know if you had control it wouldn't have happened. I also know that your beast is more animalistic, you told me, he told me, but I'm not going to lie when I say I am slightly afraid of him. I don't know how to act. If I knew it would be better but I don't. I can accept it that you won't teach me but it still have to know what to do in those situations.”

“Bare your neck and give him what he wants.”
”Is that all?” Kagome looked at him and was slightly confused.

“It will suffice.”

There was a silence for a while then Sesshomaru let out a tired sigh.
Kagome fluffed up her pillow and lay back down. She offered silently to Sesshomaru the rest of the bed, which he took.

“I need to go home soon.” Kagome said as the man next to her pulled her into his chest.

“We just returned.”

“I know, but I need a few things. And I want to spend time with my mom before the well closes forever.”

“We will return tomorrow in that case.”

“Thank you.”

No Kagome thank you. Sesshomaru thought to himself.

 

Kagome and Sesshomaru took a playful bath, one that included dunking and splashing, then headed to breakfast, dressed ready to leave.

Jaken ran though the halls trying to catch up. “Lord Sesshomaru.” He yelled as he caught up. “Lord Sesshomaru,” Seeing Kagome he added, “Lady Kagome, the North is at the borders demanding to see you.”
”My Uncle can wait. He is most likely aware of the happenings. This one however has no interest in his ramblings.”
”Your Uncle?”
”Yes, we are family by a mating that no one agreed too. They were banished to the north, years later they became the Lord and Lady. My Aunt died hundred of years ago but sadly as part of our laws he is still my Uncle.”
”Oh.”
”What you would have me do my Lord?”
”Send him away.”
”Yes my Lord.”

“That's not very nice.” Kagome spoke once Jaken had left.

“Hn. Maybe not, but he is aware it is rude to trespass on another Lord's lands without word and can be punishable by death.”
”Oh.”
They walked in silence to breakfast. Rin and Shippo were sitting down getting ready to eat with Sango and Miroku when they walked in.

“Kagome.” Both children cried. Kagome knelt and hugged her son and daughter.

 

Breakfast was filled with chatter and laughing. Inu Yasha had reported to his brother all of the happenings of the castle. Sesshomaru was surprised and thanked him, which in turn surprised everyone. Totosai joined them at the end of the meal followed by a spider demon that had everyone on edge but Sesshomaru.

“Welcome.”
The spider demon bowed low. “What would you have of me My Lord?” Her high-pitched voice grated on Kagome's ears. Totosai shifted uneasily from his standing position.

“My Mate requires clothing and weapons.” Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes.

“Ah Lady Kagome. How are you?”
”I'm fine Jii-san, how are you?”
”This old man is well. I'd be better is one insolent whelp would take care of his sword, and the other whelp would learn that I am an old man and can't be summoned every hour of the day to do whatever he wants.” The old man glared at Inu Yasha and Sesshomaru, who just brushed off the glare with one of their own.

The spider demon stood and glared with multiple red eyes at Kagome. “Scrawny thing aren't you?”

Kagome snorted and shoved her arms in her sleeves. “Conceded aren't we?”

“Insolent bitch, mind your manners.”

Kagome's eyes snapped back to the spider, and narrowed. Inu Yasha and Koga never got away with calling her a bitch, and even though Sesshomaru was her mate, he knew she didn't like the word.

“Old or not, I have respect for my elders once they have earned it. Jii-san has known me since 4 years ago. Sesshomaru has saved my life more times then anyone will admit. Sango has guarded my back since we met each other. Miroku has been a mentor and a best friend since we meet also. And although Inu Yasha can be a jerk, he is strong and protective. Anyone in this castle has my respect because I know that Sesshomaru would only have the best, most loyal people in Endo under his command. Now if you have any problem with me then I suggest we take this outside and settle it like the women we are. However, if you choose to call me names that any sane person would realize, I don't like, then be prepared to die.”

Everyone was taken back by Kagome's voice. She was mad, obviously but something in this spider demon grated Kagome and everyone knew it.

The old woman scanned Kagome with an annoyed glare. Sesshomaru sat by knowing this was a war he could not interfere with.

“If you know what is good for you, then you will stop your challenge girl and respect me. Whatever you did to gain my Lord's attention has no effect on me. I will not be disrespected by someone not even a quarter my age.”
Everyone knew where this was going and began retreating away from the miko. Sesshomaru sighed and stayed where he was, thankful he couldn't be purified. “My Mate, this one understands that he cannot stop this oncoming battle, but he must ask you not to kill everyone in the vicinity.”

Kagome glanced his way and gave a single nod. “Send for my sword. We will finish this outside in a quarter of an hour.” With that Kagome stood in a flurry of robes and walked out of the hall.

“You will allow this Lord Sesshomaru!?” The spider cried.

“She is my mate, you have disrespected her, and because of this one has respect for her, he will allow her to defend herself. You have dug your grave Akira.” Sesshomaru turned to Sango. “Slayer, I ask you to attend to this one's mate and make sure no one is harmed by her anger.”
Sango bowed. “Yes, Lord Sesshomaru.” Sango rushed from the hall after Kagome.

“Brother, clear the training arena. It will be warded enough should Kagome forget her control.”
”Keh, the wench is pissed, but she won't hurt us. After all, all I got was sat and you ignored. Kagome is powerful and strong, but she knows what can and can't be done. Being turned into a demon only adds to her intelligence. Lets go Monk.”
Sesshomaru sat with Totosai and the children, ignoring the fuming spider demon.

“I have heard rumors of Kagome, but I did not believe them to be true. When your word first came to me, for a commission of a weapon for your Lady, I was surprised. First because no one, not even your father, believed you would ever take a mate. And second, was that you had taken our innocent Kagome as she.” Totosai sighed.

“It was purely accident. However during the accident, Naraku was destroyed, and Kagome regained all but a single shard. That belonging to the slayer's younger brother.”

“Your beast?”
”Yes.”

“And her change?”
”An act done by this one to ensure her survival against his beast.”

“Ah. She is pupped.”

“We are aware.”

There was a silence for sometime, before a servant came forward to announce the battle was ready to commence.

Sesshomaru walked with the children and Totosai down to the arena. Akira stomped ahead of them angry that her Lord put up with the girl. For years she had done everything to gain his attention and have the chance to move into his palace, however, it had never happened.

 

Kagome stood talking with Sango in the middle of the arena. It looked like she had calmed down a little. However when Akira stalked into the other side of the arena Sango, ordered by Kagome, ran. Inu Yasha pulled the girl over the edge and into the stands. Kagome stood alone with the spider demon in a dirt filled arena slightly bigger then the Roman coliseum. All most everyone, who was off duty was there; those on duty unable to leave their posts.

Akira changed into her true form. Her body the shape of a spider, leaving from the waist up a human body (think centaurs). Towering almost two stories, everyone in the inu gang went on edge.

Kagome shifted. She was on edge, one because this was a person who had no respect for her and two because she was a spider demon. Naraku was one thing but she had no past knowledge of this person.

Sesshomaru, Inu Yasha, Sango and Miroku watched knowing Kagome could handle herself. The children cheering her on in the silent battle arena. No one moved except the children. Kagome smiled at their antics but never took her eyes off of the spider.

“Submit to me, and I won't kill you.” Kagome offered.

“Your spell won't work on me you filth.” Akira made the first move, a single web shooting towards Kagome in the shape of a spear.

Having seen this same attack from Naraku, Kagome jumped into the air. Drawing her sword, she cut away at the threads landing on the ground. Focusing on her sword Kagome know what she had to do. Thrusting the blade up into the sky she started to swing it in circles. “I summon you: Dragon of the light.”

Dark clouds formed in a swirling mass, bringing a heavy wind that had many viewers covering their eyes. Akira laughed at the winds and attacked again, but lighting struck out and incinerated the threads. Kagome focused harder.

“You dare summon me?”

“I as your former master's reincarnation, summon you.” Kagome yelled at the male voice.

A dragon's head appeared in the sky formed of lightning. “You are either strong of very foolish.”
”Call me what you will, but I summon you here today to prove my strength to those that oppose me. As the reincarnation of your Mistress Mideriko, I maintain that control.”
”We shall see.” The dragon laughed and swam back into the clouds. Kagome stopped spinning her sword and pointed it straight up again. Her hand began to shake as it tried to lower. Gritting her teeth she fought the blade and tried to point it at the spider demon.

Akira knew she was dead if the girl could get the sword pointed at her. Having heard the speech to the lightning dragon, she also knew that if this were the reincarnation of the great priestess Mideriko, then there would be nothing left of her. Truly afraid now, she began to wildly attack the girl, none of her attacks even coming close.

Kagome raised her other hand and clasp the hilt of the sword. Using both hands now she fought her sword still on the downward arch. Gaining a little more strength she was halfway to her goal. Spreading her legs further apart, she poured that last of her strength into her arms and forced the sword to point straight at her opponent.

Akira screamed as Kagome dropped her sword.

Breathing heavily Kagome continued the fight. Above her the dragon smiled mentally thinking of the differences and likeness' of his old mistress and his new one. Giving a single war cry, he dove at the spider demon and engulfed her in a tidal wave of lightning.

Akira screamed in pain before quickly burning to ashes.

 

Sesshomaru watched from the sidelines. He was impressed with the attack, but worried for Kagome that she would be hurt. He remembered the rumors, when he was a little pup, of the great priestess that could control the elements and the weather but never did he believe it until now.

His mate was beautiful standing in the arena surrounded by the blue lightning.
Beside him he could see his mates friends standing in awe. The children in front of him and his brother were afraid but excited. He mentally chucked at the lecture Kagome would get from them.

 

Kagome stood strong. “I release you from my summons.” She panted.

“As you wish, my Lady.” The dragon teased.

Kagome growled low, but thought about it and laughed.

The clouds dissipated and once again the sky was blue.

Kagome sheathed her sword and leaned over herself, breathing hard.

Sango hurled the wall and was at her side in moments. Followed by the rest of her friends. Sesshomaru helped Rin over the wall. Shippo riding with Inu Yasha.

“Kagome where did you learn that?” Sango asked.

“I think you all know the answer to that one.” Kagome gave a pointed glare at Sesshomaru who ignored it.

 

Positive his mate was all right, Sesshomaru turned to address the stunned crowd. “May this be a warning. All who oppose this Lord Sesshomaru and his Lady shall have the same fate. Come, Mate.” Sesshomaru led the way out of the arena.

 

Kagome dismissed herself from her friends to go take a nap. She had figured out that many of the lessons she had learned were not her own. With Sesshomaru's vague touches on the subject of Mideriko, she had pieced it together. Undisturbed by the fact she had a second personality, Kagome made her way back to her rooms.

 

Sesshomaru had just finished his daily paperwork. The battle had cause quiet an uproar around the palace. Inu Yasha had done a good job; he had to admit, keeping things in order while he was with his mate. Although, he had yet to make the official announcement that she was now his mate. Sighing, Sesshomaru stood and was about to leave his study when a breeze tossed his hair over his shoulder.

“Who is there?”
Turing in one smooth motion he swept his hair back and observed the room. The window was closed and no one was around. “This Sesshomaru demands you show yourself.”

Something ghosted over his skin. Sesshomaru's eyebrow rose before he swept out of the room and bee-lined towards his mate.

 

Kagome had just fallen asleep for the third time since the battle. The first time she had been woken up was when a maid asked if she wanted lunch, which she had turned down. The second time was when Shippo and Rin came to interrogate her about the thunder and lightning, which she had to make up some story. And this last time was for a bathroom break. Now she could sense her mate just outside the door.

Three... Two…One…The door slammed open and slammed shut. Trying to ignore him, Kagome relaxed and forced herself back to sleep.

“I am aware you are not asleep Kagome.” Sesshomaru said standing right over her.

“I would be if people would leave me alone.” She hinted.

“It would seem we have another mission.”
”Ya, well I'm not interested at the moment.” Kagome pulled the sheets over her head and rolled over so they couldn't be ripped from her.

Sesshomaru sat on the side of the bed next to Kagome. “This…I believe my father can be resurrected.”

“I am aware of this, but to do it I need sleep.” Kagome growled kicking him off the bed.

Sesshomaru sighed at his lazy mate and stripped himself of his armor and swords. He removed his boots and thought twice about what he was about to do.

Gathering the treadle of childishness he had recently obtain, he shifted into his dog form and attacked his mate. His attack effectively shredded the sheets and scared the crap out of his mate. Kagome looked at her mate stunned. She knew it was Sesshomaru, but she never expected him to stoop so low. Sesshomaru, happy he had her attention, began to lick her face.

Kagome screamed then began to laugh as her mate's slobber covered tongue licked at her face.

“Sesshomaru. Stop.” She laughed.

Sesshomaru smiled and shifted back to his human form. Stopping his assault on her face he began to tickle her ribs.

“Well you listen to me now?” He teased.

“Yes. Yes. I will listen.” Kagome panted.

Sesshomaru stopped and smiled again at their position. He straddled her waist pinning her arms above her head.

“Mideriko said that with your help I can revive my father.”

“I know, I've gotten some flashes of your conversations. However, to do it I need the last shard of the jewel, and Inu Yasha's help.”

“You are aware of the process.”

“Yes. We have to create a portal to the underworld. Tensaga and Tetsiga will call to your fathers spirit, with a pure attack from me using the jewel and all my strength, I'll feed the call and open a portal, you and Inu Yasha will go through, and together you must use Tensaga to resurrect your father. I know the drill.”

“This is only accomplished after the final shard is obtained?”
”Yes. Even with the power I have, it is not enough. That one shard will unlock the full power of the jewel and my own power.”
”Hn.” Sesshomaru climbed off his mate and offered her a hand up. “Come I have a gift for you.”
”Is this one of the mating gifts?”
”Yes.”
Kagome dressed and followed Sesshomaru back to his study convincing him he didn't need his armor.

“Close your eyes.” Kagome closed her eyes and peeked out of one eye only to be caught.

“Keep them closed.” Sesshomaru snapped playfully.

“I like it when you're in this mood. Your not such an ass.”
”I'm glad you are happy with it.” Sesshomaru opened the door and pulled his mate in, shutting the door and locking it. He placed a barrier just to make sure no one would interrupt them.

Tugging Kagome behind him, he made sure she didn't open her eyes. Sitting at his desk he pulled her into his lap and gave her the okay to open her eyes.

Kagome gasped at the sword, dagger and bow that lay across the desk. Hesitantly reaching out she traced them. “I thought you said this was one mating gift.”

“It is. Often more then not, a mate will get a set of items as a single gift for their mate. I am aware that no matter how much I don't like it you will always be a warrior. Thus I give you the ability to protect yourself.”
”So a mating gift is like giving the other person something to say they have permission to do something or to prove you can do something for that person. Like these weapons are a way of saying I can go into battle if need be.”

“Yes.”

“Oh.”

“These were commissioned before you ran away, that day actually. Totosai will commission you a new sword to fit your new changes using your fang and mine. The bow was my mother's. She was a skilled archer and this was a gift from me. It may take some getting use to but should you have problems with it I can get you a different one.”
”Sesshomaru…” Unable to find any words to say Kagome threw her arms around his neck and cried. “Thank you.”
Wrapping his arms around his happy mate, Sesshomaru smiled into her neck. “You are most welcome.”

Shippo and Rin set outside under one of the many trees of the garden.

“Rin is happy that Lady Mother Kagome and Lord Sesshomaru are happy.”
”Me too Rin.”

“Does Shippo think Rin will every be that happy?”
”I don't know Rin.”

“Oh.” Rin stood up and smiled down at Shippo, “Lets go play.” She said before running off.

“I promise Rin, I'll make sure your that happy.” Shippo whispered before running after the girl.

 

Inu Yasha sat on the wall staring out into the forest. A guard passed behind him and patted him on the back just to make sure he was awake. Inu Yasha grunted and stared into nothing, happy to be home.

 

Sango and Miroku sat together having lunch. They had already made plans to return to the village within two days. Kagome seemed happier and it was obvious Inu Yasha was staying. They felt the need to be back home and around less proud people. Not that it was a bad thing but it was wearing on the nerves to have arrogant demons everywhere.

 

Kagome sat at dinner twirling her egg drop in the broth.
”Is everything ok my Lady?” Her servant asked.

Sesshomaru reached out and touched her hand when she responded distantly.

“Is everything ok, Kagome?” He whispered afraid something really was wrong.

“Just thinking.”
”About?”
”Kohaku.”
 221;Kagome don't worry about it, he will be fine, not matter what happens.” Sango reassured her.

“Maybe, but something bothers me. Kohaku had a spider scar on his back. Naraku has used that mark to return many times. I know Naraku was completely destroyed, but could he use that to return, and if so what would be left of Kohaku?”
Everyone was silent.

“I think we should leave with in the week. Kohaku has a shard, slayer or not as far as we know he could be alone. A lot of demons were unleashed when Naraku was killed, who's to say he isn't fighting them by himself. I've neglected my duty as the Shikon Miko and I can't let this continue.”

Sesshomaru let his mate talk knowing where it was going. Many times had they made the arrangements to leave in search of the boy but never made true on the words. Waving over one of the servants, he ordered their travel things be packed.

“Right away my Lord.”
”We will leave in the morning at sun rise.”

“May Rin come?”
Looking over at his mate, Sesshomaru thought about it. “Yes you may come.”
Kagome continued to think. Another tug on her hand from her mate drug her back to herself. “I think we should split up, but at the same time I think we need to stay together. We can cover more ground in two groups, but if the shard is deeply tainted, only I can touch it. Then we also have to think about the effect of the completed jewel.”
”One step at a time Kagome.” Sesshomaru told her.

“I guess you are right.” Kagome continued to think. Her mind rushed through everything she knew of from her time. Then switched to everything she knew of in this time.

“Kagome?” Kagome looked at each of her friends who were either eating or discussing plans. “I am in your mind Kagome. I am Mideriko. I believe I can be of assistance.”
”How? Why are you in my head?” Kagome bit her lip and bowed her head.

“I created the Shikon no Tama, you are my reincarnation.”
”Oh. So who do you plan to help?”
”I'm my time, hundreds of years ago we had a ritual to find lost people. It was used to find missing families or family members during war. It was expensive and few ever could use the ritual so it was a limited ability. The ritual was lost after the five uses of the lands died and were unable to find anyone to continue the ritual. It takes great amounts of energy and very strong concentration. I believe your Mate can get the materials you will need.”
”That's all great and dandy, but those people who know it are dead, and if you haven't noticed the jewel isn't human so we wouldn't be able to find it.”
”The jewel was made from the souls of demons and myself. By using part of yourself we can trace it. As for your first problem you have no need to worry. Just allow me a few moments with your Mate and friends, while I talk to them I will show you how to concentrate specifically for this ritual.”
”I don't know, why can we not just look for it like planned?”

“Because don't you feel like it is lost already? Like it doesn't exist?”

Kagome thought about it and had to agree. The single shard that was missing we no longer just missing it was gone, or shielded very well. Mentally nodding, Kagome gave Mideriko control.

 

“Pup, I will need supplies.”

Sesshomaru's attention snapped to his Mate. “For what exactly?” He growled releasing his mate's hand.

“A ritual.”

“No.”

“Pup you will get me what I need.”
The slaves watched as their Lord and Lady fought. Neither seemed to acknowledge each other as they normally would.

Sesshomaru stood and glared down at the woman inhabiting his mate's body. “This Sesshomaru refuses to aid you in whatever you are trying to do.”
”Even if you get more power?” Mideriko grinned. She knew how much he liked power.
”Yes. This one will not participate in injuring his own mate. You think this one is stupid but he knows what you are thinking of doing. And while Kagome is powerful, there is more chance she will die then live through the spell.” Sesshomaru stood and glared downing at the girl.

“Not if we use my soul.”

“Your soul has inhabited her body. It is the reason she lives today. If not for you, Lady Mideriko, Kagome would never exist. I will not take unnecessary actions that will take her from me.”
The room became silent everyone seemed to stop breathing.

“You are bold pup. I will pass the word on to your Mate.”

“See that she knows where I stand permanently.”

Kagome let out a sigh as a conversation quickly passed through her mind. Mideriko had given her better meditation, but by the memories it would be of no use. Opening her eyes she shrugged. “We set out tomorrow then.”

Sesshomaru seemed to calm down. The servants relaxed and quickly finished serving dinner.

“Kagome?”

“Not now Sango. Don't worry; it wouldn't have helped much anyways. Children, lets get ready for bed.” Kagome stood. She didn't know what the spell was, but a part of her knew that something would have needed to be sacrificed, and that the cost out weighted the benefits.

“But Mama, can't we play more.”
”Not tonight, we're leaving early, and you still have to take a bath, Rin.”

“Come on Rin.” Shippo knew this mood of Kagome's. Leading Rin away he looked back once more. People only saw the demonic Lady of the Western land now. But he knew better underneath all the clothes and the skin, she was still human, and she was defeated.

 

Kagome trudged into the room. Sesshomaru looked up at her from his papers. “Are you well Kagome?”
”Yes…no. I don't know.”

“Come, sit.” Pushing away from the desk he motioned to space in front of him. Kagome took the offering and stepped in between the desk and him. Leaning against the desk she folded her arms. “It's gone.”
”What is?” Sesshomaru thought about what to do and finally decided to sit and listen.

“The shard.”
”Hn.”
”Don't hn me. Do you not get it? The shard is gone from this dimension. It doesn't exist in this world anymore.” Kagome snapped.

Taken back Sesshomaru forced himself to remain calm. “If not here then where?”

Kagome thought about it for a while.
”Another land? You speak of them often.”

“No. Not in this world.”

“Are there others?” Sesshomaru inquired.

“Yes, but…I can't explain it. Take me to the well.”
”So you wish to leave?” Beginning to get angry Sesshomaru flexed his hands.

“Just to return to my birth era and get the materials needed to show you.”

“It will wait.” Relaxing again Sesshomaru listened.

“No it won't. If you understand this better, then I won't stress out as much, which means I won't be in a horrible mood. Oh Gods, the baby. I forgot about the baby.”

At those words Sesshomaru jumped out of his chair. “Is something wrong?”
”No, not yet. But if a woman gets too stressed or harmed, it raised the risk of losing the baby or going into labor early. I don't want to lose our first child.”

Sesshomaru's heart swelled with pride. She had accepted him finally. It wasn't his or her pup it was theirs. “If I take you back, you will return?”
”Of course. This is my home. I don't think I was ever meant to stay in my birth era. This is my home now and forever.”

They were now pressed against each other. Sesshomaru wrapped his arms around her waist. Kagome leaned into him and listened to his heartbeat.

“Do you wish to leave now?”
”It would be better. I want you to understand.” Kagome took a deep breath and let it out.

“Then let us depart.” Sesshomaru led her over to the window and onto the balcony. Kagome knew what was about to happen, quickly grabbing her weapon she folowed. She allowed him to take her tightly in his arms and relaxed into his embrace.

Sesshomaru angled them towards the bone-eater's well. Kagome couldn't say that she like have her hair whip at her but didn't complain as she watched the forests pass below them. They arrived at the well and Kagome could feel something in the air. Shivering she shrugged it off and pulled Sesshomaru to the well.

“Stay here. I'll be back in an hour or two.”
”No, I do not want you away from me. If I could…come through the magic that is this well, I would not mind, however I cannot and that alone gives my beast a reason to deny you a short passage.”
”I don't know if you can pass with me Sesshomaru. Kyade said the only reason Inu Yasha could pass was because I had put the beads on him. My miko powers did something with the beads that allowed him to cross.”

“Will you allow this one to try to cross with you?” Sesshomaru wanted to growl at own close that was to begging but kept his body and face indifferent.
Kagome thought about it. “We can try, however you can't raise arms against anyone. You can't kill them, no matter who it is. I will take care of it. I know how things work there, you don't. You do what I say.”
Sesshomaru let a frown quickly grace his features but hid it away. “This one does not like you terms but will agree.”

“Alright.” Kagome nodded and lead him to the well. She climbed onto the edge of the well and Sesshomaru stood next to her on the lip of the old wood. “One…two..three.” She jumped with Sesshomaru beside her.

The familiar purple and blue light of the well rose up around the two. It hesitated at the presence of Sesshomaru but Kagome tugged them further into the time stream.

Touching down in her birth time Kagome wrinkled her nose and swore under her breath. It was still visiting time. The grounds were covered with people. There was no way they could get to the house and not be seen. Swearing again, Kagome growled.

Sesshomaru lifted and eyebrow at his mate. The stench of her time was intolerable. Focusing on the scent of his mate made him smile, he knew she was pregnant and that the scent wouldn't come to surface for weeks but Kami did he love her scent.

Kagome peeked out the door and growled louder. People walking near who heard the noise made comments about a dog and quickly paced away.

“Is it not common for people to dress as fitting as it is to their blood?” He asked her quite loudly over her shoulder. Kagome squeaked and slammed the door shut.

“No, that died out two ta' three hundred years ago. The outfit, you deemed unworthy is similar to what women wear and men wear similar tops but have pants.”
”So it is to assumed that in this era women and males are whores.”
”No.” Kagome hissed.

“Your era is… strange to this one.”

“Let's keep it that way. Follow my lead and don't say anything… at all.”

“As you wish.” Sesshomaru growled no liking the order. Kagome straightened and drew in a deep breath.

“Jii-chan. Look what we found.” Kagome smiled towards her grandfather's aura and waved him over.

The older man quickly hobbled to them, not happy. “Kagome.” He hissed at her.
Kagome bent almost all the way in half to talk quietly to the old man. “Unexpected I know, it's all I could think of.”
”Nosey children, off to the house with you.” The old man said loudly.

Many visitors stared as the two crossed the courtyard. Kagome led Sesshomaru up a small flight of stairs and into the house. Kicking off her sandals, Kagome nodded to her mate and walked further in.

“Momma.”
”Kagome is that you again.”
”Ya.”
Sesshomaru watched as an older woman came around the corner. She was wiping her hands on a piece of material similar to that of his mate's `towels.' Bowing low Sesshomaru spoke, “You must be Kagome's lady mother. This one is Sesshomaru, Lord of the Western Lands. It is an honor to meet the woman Kagome talks so much about.”
”Rise Lord, you are welcome to my home.” Mrs. Higurashi bowed in return before sending a glare at Kagome. “I apologize, my home is not at it's best, and we were not expecting Kagome home for many more…moons?” Kagome nodded at the terms.

“Our apologies, it is truly unexpected.” Sesshomaru stood tall.

“Kagome, not that I don't like surprises but this is a bit much.”
”I am sorry Momma. We have only returned so that I can get some books and maps.”
”Is it smart to take maps back? You never have before.”
”I know. But there is one shard on the jewel left. It is in Sango's brother. But I think it is no longer in this world. I'm trying to explain to Sesshomaru the different planes. The maps are so that we can hopefully section out the islands and if it comes to it we'll use them.”

“As long as you know what your doing.” Mrs. Higurashi looked from her daughter to the man behind her. “I think we need to sit before you rush off again.”

Kagome let out a deep breath. “Yes ma'am.” She knew this was coming. Sure her mom was use to the idea of her coming home randomly, but this time was different. She was different, not hurt or scarred, but completely changed.

“I'm going to run to the book store, if you don't mind Momma.”
”Be back before dark Kagome. Your Lord and I have many things to discuss.”

Kagome nodded. Running up to her room she dug out a pair of jeans, long sleeved shirt, emo gloves, and her Halloween make-up case. Dressing, she spent the next 10 minutes heavily applying base to the new demon markings.

Sesshomaru and her mom sat at the table sipping tea when Kagome returned, her pocket full of allowance money.
”Kagome before you leave, Sesshomaru has said he would like to see more of our time. I have some of your father's old clothes…” Mrs. Higurashi trailed off letting Kagome finish the thought on her own.
”As much as I would like to mom..” Kagome bit her bottom lip, “I want to, but… damn.” She hissed instead. “Let me get one thing, I'll come back and then I'll take him.”

“Why not now?” Sesshomaru continued to stare forward, his back to his mate, but he knew she was hiding something.

Growling, Kagome finally gave up keeping it a secret. “Sesshomaru has chosen to court me, and I have agreed, but Sango was telling me along ago, that when a demon gives a mate a gift one is expected back…”Kagome trailed off hoping her mother would understand. She stood blushing under the strong glare her mother.

“And Sesshomaru has already given you a gift?”
”Yes. A set of weapons, meaning he understands I am a warrior and has given me then things I would need should I ever have to join battle.”

“Oh. Alright, do you have enough money?”
”Plenty mom. And more for when I get back and Sesshomaru and I go out.”
”Alright.”

Kagome took that as a sign and quickly put her shoes on.

 

It took her less than half an hour to run to the store she wanted. It was a fairly old store, no more than a hole in the wall. Opening the door Kagome looked up at the bell. It jingled loudly followed by an elderly woman's voice.
”Can I help you?” Kagome stepped in and walked up to the counter. “Oh, Kagome. It's been awhile.”
”Yes, Mrs.Eu.” Kagome bowed respectfully.

“You've grown.”
”Yes, Mrs.Eu.”

“What do you need?”
”I need a whole collection of Japan maps dating back as far as you have till now.”
”Oh, well you will have to help me. That is a lot of maps. What are they all for?” The elderly woman led Kagome behind a curtain. The shelves were columns stuffed with rolled up scrolls and papers. Kagome had always loved coming here since she first had found it. The store itself looked extremely small but inside Mrs.Eu hade stuffed every empty space with more then enough information.

Books littered the floor as the two wound their way to a shelving space against the back wall.

“Every scroll you will need, and I will find the newer ones from the last hundred or so years. Do you want just terrain or city or what?”
”I would like every kind of map you have without taking copies.”

“You never said what this was for.”
”My apologies, A new friend of mine his taken an intrest in the changes of the land, it is a gift for them.”
”What a lucky man.”
Kagome blushed.

“Oh, I may be old Kagome, but you are not sly. I know it is a man but how light and bouncy you walk.”
The two gathered all of the maps they could find. Including two more that Kagome had wanted of the world. After paying and finding a container big enough to hide them from Sesshomaru, Kagome ran back to the shrine.

Sesshomaru was pacing in the kitchen when Kagome ran past the doorway with a quick yell of `don't look.'

There was some crashing and banging upstairs and a single scream before Kagome came back down the stairs.

“Ok, are we ready?” Kagome tossed a strand of hair back in place looking over at Sesshomaru.

He was dressed in a pair of black jeans and a muscle tee. His long hair was in a lose braid the kept his ears covered, a hand full pulled forward and swished to the side to cover his crescent. Her mom had applied make-up to cover all his markings, even the ones on his arms.

He was sexy, drop-dead gorgeous and dangerous all at once. Kagome smiled at him not bothering to hide her approval or her arousal.

Sesshomaru lifted one eyebrow and received a bigger smile from his mate.

“What is it that you would like to see of this era, Mate?” Kagome asked.

Mrs. Higurashi watched the two with mild humor. She could see the grandbabies now.

“I would wish to see the..” Looking over at the older woman he stuttered, “carnival. And to try..” again he stuttered looking at the woman sipping tea, “ice cream.”

“Alright.” Kagome grabbed his hand in hers and slipped her shoes on that had been hastily discarded. Sesshomaru followed her lead and they headed down the shrine stairs.

“What are the creatures beside your roads?”
”They are called vehicles or automobiles. They use an element similar to water to move people from one place to another. It is a covered carriage without horses that moves on its own when operated by a person.”
”And these castles why so many? Surely there are not that many Lords in this era.”
”No there are not, they are not castles they are buildings. Instead of having thousands of single story stores, stores are stacked on top of each other to save space. If this buildings were built like in our era, there would be no grass, trees, or water.”
”Hn.”

They walked on, hand-in-hand, until Kagome pointed out their destination.

“Your Lady Mother, has explained that in this era, no one will harm us like in mine.”
”She is right.” Kagome paid for their tickets and led him into the heavy mass of people.

Sesshomaru watched a child run in front of him carrying a wooden sword and a cloud of pink on a stick. “In this era people eat clouds?”
Kagome followed his eyes. “No, it is called cotton candy. It is a sugar spun into small strands of string and eaten. Would you like to try it?”
”I have not tried my sweet items that I have liked, I will try if you will join me.” Kagome giggled and nodded.

Buying one from the closest vendor she pulled a small tuft off the stick and pressed it to her mate's mouth. Sesshomaru understood the order and opened his mouth accepting the strange food.

Kagome laughed at his face and the candy melted.

“This one…I do not like it.”
”I figured not.” Kagome smiled and finished off the rest. Sesshomaru was fascinated by everything and Kagome was happy for him. “Do you want to ride the Farris wheel?”
”If you want to, I will try.”
Kagome smiled and led him over to the ride. Sesshomaru looked unimpressed and bored like many of the other boyfriends in line with their girlfriends. Kagome handed over their money and pulled the demon Lord into the basket. Being the last to board they began their accent without interruption. Sesshomaru looked bored but as they neared the top and Kagome encouraged him to look at Endo, his face turned to wonder.

“Sometime during history human overpopulated compared to demons. I have lived her all of my life, and as of 4 years ago, I never have felt a single aura of any kind of demon.” Kagome smiled sadly. “It was only 4 years ago that I found out demons existed, Grandfather always told me stories about great demons, Lord, battles. You name it and he has a story for it. But lately it has been my tales he has been telling. Everytime I came home I would tell him of Endo and then would leave. Momma only told me last year that he has been telling the children of my travels. They are all enchanted with me. If they only knew right? If they only knew the truth, that not everything is as peaceful as the stories make it out to be.”

“He is wise beyond his age. Stories begin from truth, any story has a part of truth to it.”

“Maybe so, but there are times I think even he has changed to much of the story. You weren't there on my 8th birthday when he gave me a petrified cockroach demon.” Kagome shivered.

Beside her Sesshomaru chuckled. “Your era is much different then my own. It will be a pity to see it lost to time.”

“I agree. I miss the purity of Endo.”

 

The ride ended and Kagome bought ice cream before the two returned home.

Kagome played a game with her brother and took a bath, showing Sesshomaru the shower, before they said their good-byes.

Sesshomaru pulled his mate from the well as the light behind them died away. It was dark now.

Kagome carried the box of maps pointedly ignoring the inquisitive demon. “Not until we get to the castle.” Kagome growled slapping his hand away from the flap hiding away the paper.

Sesshomaru growled at his mate and wrapped his hands around her waist. He took off at his fastest speed. The curiosity was killing him. He didn't expect courting gifts from her in return but knowing it had come from her time has peaked his interest.

They landed on the balcony. Kagome growled and slapped at his chest.

“Come on.” She muttered something else under her breath. Dropping her bag in the corner she led him down the hall to his office.

“Sit and close your eyes.” Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow at the order. “If you don't do it I'm not giving it to you.”

Understand the threat Sesshomaru sat in his chair and closed his eyes.

“No peaking, I need to set it up.”
”I will not...peak.”

“Good.” Kagome focused for the next ten minuets arranging the maps by newest to oldest and by type. It was annoying and had earned her many paper cuts but she knew he would like it. Finally finished Kagome gathered the maps and placed them in front of her mate on the old desk.

“Do you remember how I said anything from my time no one could see?”

“Hn.”
”By giving these to you I am telling you I trust you to take care of the information they hold and not to miss-use it. I give you my knowledge.” Kagome stepped around the desk and touched her mate's cheek causing him to open his eyes.

Sesshomaru stared at the maps before him of what he assumed what Endo. They weren't like what he had to use. These were more detailed. Reaching out he lifted the first paper to reveal another with a similar shape but this one was boundaries and villages rather then shapes and colors. He lifted the next one and saw a different shape with different writings and colors. The papers continued until he reached the bottom two. The picture on it was of a stretched circle. IT was mostly blue with green shapes. Kagome leaned over his shoulder.

“These are maps. The oldest one is from this century. I don't know when it was commissioned but it will be fairly accurate. The last on is a current map of Japan. It is what this land looks like at the time I was born, 500 years in the future. These last two are the world. You know like when I tell people there is a world. And how I was telling you of China and the United States of America? Well this is what I was talking about.” Pointing to a part of the map Sesshomaru looked at the tiny island. “This is where Japan is, it is Endo in 500 years. The rest is land that people, now do not know of.”
Sesshomaru turned through the papers and few scrolls that held the drawings of the land. Finally he looked back at his mate. She held his shoulder leaning next to him telling him of the maps. He was at a loss of words.

Kagome looked out of the corner of her eye and caught Sesshomaru staring. She smiled at him and shrugged.

“I thank you.” He pulled her into his lap and buried his nose against her neck.

“Have I done well? Was I correct with my gift?”
”If you are asking if the symbolism for you gift is that of a courting gift, then yes it is. Your wisdom has been noted. I will honor your wishes of allowing no one to see these.”

“I hope that they will benefit you and help you to protect our people and our family” Kagome whispered.

Sesshomaru stiffened and for a moment Kagome feared she had gone to far. About to apologize she was cut off by a horse whisper. “Do you mean that?”
”I trust you to not miss-use these Sesshomaru. I know you will use them to their fullest benefit. Weather it be for battle or for protection.”

They had poured over the maps for hours. It was half way through the night when Kagome had yawned and Sesshomaru had decided it was time for bed.

Kagome climbed under the sheets with Sesshomaru right behind her. He pressed the line of their bodies together and draped an arm around her waist.

“Good night Mate.” Sesshomaru kissed Kagome's neck.

“Good night Mate.” Kagome breathed and was asleep.

 

Dawn came too early for Kagome. They walked out of the gates shortly after dawn. Shippo and Rin road on Kirara while Ah-un carried most of the food and equipment Kagome had brought from her time.

Kagome wore one of her peasant kimonos that she had bought when she had run away. The blue one had become her favorite.

Sango wore the new demon slayers armor under her skirt and shall. Everyone was in his basic attire.

Shippo drowsily woke and Kagome knew instantly what was going to come next. “We will stop soon Shippo.” She called over her shoulder.

Sesshomaru looked at the woman at his side and she only shrugged.

The kit huffed and tried to return to sleep. It was an hour later before they stopped and Kagome prepared breakfast.

 

By lunch they were nearing the border between the South and West borders.

Surprisingly the maps had helped plan their course of action. The sun was well past being at it's highest. Kagome ordered Inu Yasha get water from a creek father in the woods and had the children gather woods just at the edges of the road under the supervision of Sango and Miroku.

Kagome sat down and rolled her shoulders. The three swords at her hip and the bow across her back were heavy to say the least. The swords were odd. How Sesshomaru could carry just two was beyond her. Her miko sword, mystically sent by Mideriko, the basic sword, given by Sesshomaru, and Sesshomaru's Tensaiga were more then enough.

“Mate, how is it that you and Inu Yasha at not hindered by the weight of your weapons?”
Sesshomaru raised a brow and said nothing.

Growling Kagome rephrased. “These weapons are heavy, why are your guys' seem so light?”
Smiling a little, happier with her question, her answered. “We have carried these for most of our lives. The weight will become unnoticed. Also as a pup I was train having to carry a mentor during many training sessions.”

“Oh, I'll pick the lesser evils.” Kagome muttered taking the weapons over having to carry him, Inu Yasha, Sango or Miroku.

Shippo and Rin dumped the wood in a pile. Rin backed away under Shippo's orders as he lit the fire.

Kagome smiled as she watched the blue flame turn red. Her little Shippo was growing up. Smiling sadly she pulled a pot from the packs and used the water Inu Yasha had returned with. It took a moment to boil and she quickly tossed in some meat, veggies and the Raman.

A breeze tore through the clearing almost knocking Kagome into the fire. Standing in one fluid movement she drew a sword and aimed at the air. There was something there she could feel it.

Everyone watched as Kagome went on the defense against the wind. They stared wondering what had come over their friend.

The wind blasted Kagome again. Lifting the sword she had grabbed Kagome saw the light blue spark from its edge. Looking to make sure she had a battle blade Kagome growled as she looked down at Tensaiga. I would draw you. She growled mentally.

Again the wind the pushed her back, and again blue spark ignited against the blade, this time catching Kagome's attention.

“Blue? Crap what did Mideriko tell me that meant?” Kagome banged her head against the back of the blade over and over trying to remember on of her mental lessons.

“Sesshomaru, blue on a blade, what does it mean?” Kagome turned and asked quickly.

“Explain.”
”When something happens to a sword or weapon of hand-to-handish combat, and a blue spark happens.”

“It is a meaning of a past user attacking or friendly battle, as if battling an ally.”
”Like when you and Inu Yasha battle?”
”Yes.”

“Family, Ally.” The wind hit her twice. “Damn it stop.” Kagome growled. Everyone looked at her funny as she muttered things to herself. Again she muttered the two words.

“Two hits, not for attention but for a reply.” Kagome looked up and the wind caressed over her skin.

“Family.” The continued. “But friend?” It hesitated then stopped. “No…Okay, family and friend.” Kagome growled in annoyance trying to understand something as simple as wind. She understood someone was trying to talk to her using it but damn if it wasn't hard. “Family and family, but a friend.” The wind hit her knocking her on her butt as is to say finally.

Sesshomaru was at her side in a moment unsure of what was going on. He didn't like his mate being pushed around. Kagome looked at him and growled. He helped her stand and she brushed herself off.

“Damn it who are you? Kagome growled. “Family and a family but a friend. Do you realize how may people that is. There are two of you I get it but it's freaking annoying.”
The wind blasted her three times as if to correct.
”There are three of you?”
It hit her once. The universal yes.
Growling Kagome sheathed the sword. Her growl almost never ending now.

“Kagome? Is all right?”
”No.” He voice was short.

“May we assist you?” Sesshomaru tried again, worried for his mates sanity.

“Can you talk to the wind?”
”It has never been a gift of any Inu that I am aware of. Only those of a wind demon has that kind of power.”
”Like Kagura?”
The wind hit her knocking her almost ten feet and out of Sesshomaru's arms.

“She is dead.” The wind did nothing.

Inu Yasha helped her stand this time as Sango and Miroku came to see if she was hurt.

“Three people. A family, a family and sort of friend, and another. I got blasted saying Kagura's name but she's dead. Gah I was never good at these kind of puzzles.”
Kagome shook herself out of her friends hands and began pacing. “I'm missing something.”
”Sango, Miroku. Someone in our past travels. A family member, a family member but ort of a friend, and a wind demon. Feel free to speak up Inu Yasha, Sesshomaru.”
”The only wind demon we knew was Kagura.”
The wind touched Kagome once. Yes.

“Okay we need paper.” Digging in the packs Kagome pulled out a quill and ink with a scroll. She began scribbling out columns for each thing. Kagura's name being the only one under the wind demon heading.

“Okay, family that isn't present.”

Everyone looked at each other. “Kohaku.” Again the wind blasted Kagome.

“Duh, ok family or friend.”

“Both.” Sango spoke confidently.

“Ok last one…maybe.”

“If these two are correct we are looking for people who have touched death. Who's got dead relatives.”
”There is my mother and father and Inu Yasha's mother. Miroku's father and mother and uncle?”
Miroku looked at Sesshomaru. “My uncle is still alive. But you are right.”
Sesshomaru nodded and continued. “We have many aunt and uncles and cousins that have passed.”
”Ok let us stick with immediate family. Sango, this would be your parent also. And my dad, but I doubt he is in on this.”

“Ok lets start with parent go slow, if there is a strong breeze then it's our answer.” Everyone nodded.
”My father, My mother.” Kagome wrote down Miroku's words.

“My mother, father and of course Kohaku.” The wind touched Kagome on Kohaku's name and she circled it darkly on the paper.

“Next.”

Inu Yasha looked to Sesshomaru. “My mother.”
”My mother and our father.” The wind blasted Kagome.

“I'm really starting to hate this.” Kagome snarled.

“So we got Kohaku, Kagura and Inu Tashio.” The wind touched Kagome and she felt like she was right. Then the feeling left.

“If Kagura and Kohaku are with Inu Tashio then we have to find a way, without dying, to get to the demon grave yard. Again.”

“There are the gates.”

“They are in the north, taking that trip will take us months, walking fast or not, winter is in a few weeks. There is no way. Besides, with Sesshomaru we have to worry about not breaking codes and policies.”

“If you do not wish to travel until after the cold then it will have to wait even longer.” Sesshomaru gave a pointed glare at Kagome.

“Damn I don't want to wait that long.” Kagome pulled out the bowls from the pack and dished out the Raman. She sat in silence not even touching her food.

“Mate you must eat.” Sesshomaru tried, he didn't want to order her but his beast was demanding him to.

Kagome jumped at his voice. “Sorry.” She picked at the food some more before deciding to just put it down.

Sesshomaru stood and offered his hand motioning her to stand and follow him.

 

Kagome walked with Sesshomaru to the river. He settled at the edge tugging Kagome down with him. “Talk to me Mate.”
”I feel obligated to get Kohaku back, and you have mentioned that you would like to have your father back but…I don't know, we can't wait almost 8 months. It will drive all of insane.”
”You have expressed your worry of going north this last however is it not possible to just wait and plan? We will need to know how to open to doors and it would be unless to get there then have to return only in defeat because we did not have the proper materials.”
”True. But almost 8 months Sesshomaru. And it may be even longer then that because I've never had a baby.”
”Nor have I but there are servants still at the palace that have tended many of the royal heirs along with myself.”

“But I don't want other people to raise our baby, I want too.”
”I take it is a tradition of yours to raise your children rather then pass them of to others to teach and tend.”
Kagome tried to look at her mate's face and failed instead she just nodded. “Interesting.”
They sat in silence for a little while longer.

“We will camp here tonight then return to the palace tomorrow.”
”Alright since there is no point in looking for Kohaku if he is in the afterlife with your dad.”
”I am curious as to know why Kagura is with them.”

Kagome shrugged. “Who knows. That's like asking why your dad is still hanging around.”

“Hn.”