InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Her Choice ❯ Chapter 1 ( Chapter 1 )

AN: Wow! I didn't expect so many reviews! Thanks so much guys! Definitely got me writing like crazy. (Already 1000 words into chapter 3!) I'm warning everyone now, I'm updating once a week. I'll do my best to make each chapter worth the wait though. ;-)

 

There was one thing from the reviews that I felt needed some explanation.

 

Kagome's wish was made in haste to protect Inu-Yasha. Sesshoumaru did threaten to kill him (He can be a bit intimidating, ne?). Also, Sesshoumaru mentioned that Inu-Yasha wanted a family, and he made it clear he wanted it right away. Kagome knew she couldn't give him that, and choose to give him what he wanted most. The chance for a family of his own.

 

Besides… she didn't expect the… *ahem* results of that wish, which you'll see in a minute.

 

That's about it. Enjoy, and let me know what you think.

 

Chapter 1- To the Western Lands

 

 

Kagome watched, despite the protests of her heart, as her first love embraced her previous incarnation. She felt the sting throughout her whole being. The thought that it was once her body that he embraced offered her no comfort. Finally, she turned from the heart-wrenching scene. She saw what she needed to see.

 

Inu-Yasha marked Kikyou as his make.

 

If it were possible, Kagome would be crying. However, the spirit form she was in would not allow her to. Instead, she tried to tear her mind from the knowledge she had gained.

 

“Sesshoumaru was right all along… I can't let my spirit rest nor can I return to my time. I'm alone… But, for Inu-Yasha, it's worth it,” she turned slightly to glance in the direction where the lovers headed. “Be happy, you've earned it…”

 

“He has earned nothing. You are more foolish then I had imagined,” a deep voice intruded on her pain. “Why would you do such a thing?”

 

“Sesshoumaru? You can hear me?” Kagome asked shocked, turning to face the demon near her.

 

“Indeed. You have not answered my question, Miko,” He stepped forward, his eyes daring her to look away.

 

Kagome smiled sadly at the demon. “You said you would kill him if he slept with the dead. She's not dead anymore, so it's ok now, right?”

 

“It would appear so. But what will you do now?” Sesshoumaru stepped away from the spirit of the young girl.

 

“I dunno. I'll watch over them, I suppose. It hurts that they can't see or hear me, but I'll do what I can to protect everyone. Even Kikyou,” she stated quietly, sitting on the ground.

 

“And allow your spirit to slowly fall to darkness? I can already sense the pain and hurt in your soul. To remain here would turn you into a mere shadow, like the other priestess was,” He gazed over his shoulder at her.

 

“I have no where else to go. Even if I want to see my family, I can't…” She said quietly, looking down.

 

“They are dead?”

 

“No. Well, sort of… They're not born yet,” she said with a bitter smile. “It's a long story…”

 

“You intended to have a family with Inu-Yasha then?” He inquired, sitting down next to her.

 

She laughed and shook her head. “No, not for a while at least. I'm from 500 years in the future. I was dragged through the Bone Eater's well on my 15th birthday by a demon. That demon tore the Shikon no Tama from my side… And, well, the rest is history. Literally,” she tossed a rock deep into the blackness of the forest.

 

“I suppose that would explain your indecent attire,” he said with a slight smirk.

 

“Indecent? This is my school uniform! It's not indecent!” she declared, jumping to her feet with an indignant huff. She glared at the Tai-youkai until she noticed his smirk.

 

“You-You jerk! You're teasing me!” she gasped.

 

The Inu-youkai raised a silvery white eyebrow. “You are no longer alive, so I cannot kill you for your insult. However, I see no harm in letting you know a few of my secrets. I may be cruel, but even I can enjoy another's company. Even that of a foolish human spirit,” he stood, and walked to the edge of the clearing. He turned back to glance at the stunned spirit.

 

“Are you coming?” he asked, turning his head back.

 

Kagome replied with all the eloquence she could muster at the moment. “Huh?”

 

“You may come with me, instead of remaining here. Just do not make a nuisance of yourself, Miko,” He answered calmly, continuing on.

 

Kagome blinked once…

 

Twice…

 

Three times…

 

“Hey! Wait for me!” she cried chasing after the demon.

 

 

Sesshoumaru walked so that the spirit could keep up with him. However, without the drawbacks of a physical body, she was able to move quickly and without rest. They had only been on the road three days now, and would be arriving within a few hours at his home. He was pleasantly surprised to see the spirit was willing to travel in comfortable silence most of the way.

 

Kagome glanced unsurely at the tai-youkai walking next to her. He noticed her gaze on him and turned his head.

 

“Was there something you wished to discuss, Miko?” he questioned before gazing at the path in front of him.

 

“I didn't get to thank you yet. For letting me come with you. I know you didn't have to, but I'm really grateful. I just hope I can repay you somehow,” she said quietly.

 

“If you truly with to repay me, then I know how,” He replied simply, stopping.

 

“Huh? What can I do?” she blinked in confusion.

 

“I have had feelings of unease since returning to my home with the human girl, Rin. I believe there are some who feel I have inherited my father's weakness for humans. I would like you to pay attention to anything they are saying in regards to taking my life or Rin's,” He explained, watching the spirit carefully.

 

“Sure, I don't mind. I have to admit, it would be nice to be able to be helpful. Thanks again, Sesshoumaru,” she smiled cheerfully at the taller youkai beside her.

 

“It appears this arrangement will be beneficial to us both. However, I am curious as to your time,” He added continuing to walk towards his home.

 

“It's really wonderful! Running water, electricity, candy, music, and television! I think you at least could appreciate my time. Inu-Yasha was always such a pain about coming with me to my time,” She grumbled.

 

“I'm not surprised he would react that way,” a hint of amusement coloring his deep voice.

 

“Well, he did complain that it smelled horrible. There's a lot of pollution. The night is so bright you can hardly see the stars. Humans live in huge cities with millions of people living close together. I can understand some of why he has trouble, but with the way he eats and enjoys so many things… I would have figured he could have at least said it had it's good parts,” Kagome complained.

 

“What of the demons? How do demons and humans interact in your time?” He inquired, pushing aside a low branch to make his way through.

 

“Um, well, I've never come across any demons before. I doubt so many demons would just disappear. But I never knew of demons before now. And that might be a good thing, considering humans in my time…” The spirit's voice faded out, as she lost herself in thought.

 

“We've arrived. I shall not be able to speak to you unless we are alone. I shall seek you out tonight in the gardens, near the fountain,” He explained, his face seeming to harden as they caught site of his home.

 

“I understand. I'll keep an eye out for ya. I'll see ya tonight, Sesshoumaru,” She said cheerfully, walking towards the castle.

 

He nodded to heard, before jumping past her to the gates.

 

 

 

“Sesshoumaru-sama! Welcome home!” the young girl cried happily, waving to her lord.

 

“Rin,” he nodded to the girl. “I trust you have been well?”

 

“Oh yes, Sesshoumaru-sama. Jaken-sama has taken very good care of Rin. But Rin is very happy her lord is back,” she said happily, smiling brightly at her savior and benefactor.

 

“That is good. Where is Jaken now?” he inquired, glancing around.

 

“He was talking to Mouko-sama. Mouko-sama was demanding to know why you had not returned,” she said politely, but dislike was showing in her eyes.

 

“You are getting better at masking your feelings, Rin. But your eyes betray your feelings,” his face softened for a moment. “But I am proud of you for being so observant. You may play in the gardens now,” he told her, his face returning to stone.

 

“Thank you, Sesshoumaru-sama,” she bowed her head, and then ran out to the gardens with all the innocence of her youth.

 

“I don't understand why you would keep such a weak creature in such a dangerous place, my lord,” a large red haired man said, appearing from the shadows.

 

“Only a fool would believe all humans to be weak, Mouko. Was it not my a mere human who single-handedly defeated Naraku? This child can keep watch over such humans when she grows,” Sesshoumaru said impassively.

 

“Naraku was a fool, it would have been a simple task for you to eradicate him,” Mouko replied. “And no matter how hard a human tries, they could not take down a demon like you or I,” he looked into the Tai-Youkai's eyes, his redish-black eyes burning with challenge.

 

“One human would never stand a chance. But I have caught word of humans trying to unite the island under their rule. We could take out 100 humans easily, but if they form an army from the entire island, with taijiyas, mikos, and monks, we would be in a grave situation. I simply believe it would be wise to prevent such a thing from happening,” Sesshoumaru walked towards the building, not even bothering to see if the other demon was following.

 

Mouko snorted. “Humans are too stupid and foolish. They could never do such a thing.”

 

“Even so, it would be more stupid and foolish not to be prepared for anything. And I see nothing wrong with using a human who was shunned by her own to prevent them from gaining any strength,” the white haired demon paused in his stride a moment, glancing out a window at the gardens. “As you said, humans are stupid and foolish. I intend to keep them that way.”

 

With that, the tai-youkai left Mouko standing in the hallway, glaring at his back.

 

 

Kagome sighed as she listened to the extremely annoying gossip of the women. They were all emerging from a bath that Kagome desperately wished she could enjoy.

 

“I had no idea demons gossiped like humans… I could have lived without knowing too,” she grumbled.

 

“Oh, Azatoi-sama, when are you going to mate Sesshoumaru-sama?” a small demon asked, while brushing her hair.

 

“Soon, I believe. I've got grand plans, and they most certainly include out handsome tai-youkai,” she said giggling.

 

Kagome watched as she dried her hair with a towel. She was a beautiful fox demon, who had a long tail like Shippou. She also had long dark red hair streaked with black. She moved gracefully around the room, her hips seemed to sway to a song only she could hear.

 

“You'll make a wonderful mate to the Tai-youkai. And he can't refuse you, you're half dog youkai, after all. And his poison and your illusions would make an incredibly powerful son,” another blue haired demon added, smiling at Azatoi.

 

“Of course, what more could I ask for then a powerful mate and son?” she said sweetly.

 

`Too sweetly, if you ask me. There's something about her that's off… I don't know what it is,' Kagome thought to herself, watching the demon carefully.

 

Kagome was startled out of her thoughts when she heard a knock at the door.

 

“Azatoi-sama, Mouko-sama would like to speak with you,” a female voice called from behind the door.

 

“Tell him I'll be there in a moment, Mihari-san,” she called, brushing her hair behind her gracefully. She quickly finished dressing in her formal kimono, which left Kagome staring in shock.

 

`How in the world could she get into that so fast?!? It's not fair!' she whined to herself.

 

“Alright girls, we'll talk more later,” and with that, she disappeared through the door.

 

Kagome took a last look around the room before following her.

 

 

“You asked for me, Mouko-sama?” she asked, smiling coyly.

 

“Yes, it has come to my attention you intend to mate our lord, is this true?” he asked casually, not even turning to face the demon next to him.

 

“Of course. He has not made his intentions clear yet, but I'm sure he'll come around. A child from the two of us would be extremely powerful. I'm sure that alone would appeal to him,” she purred softly, twirling a long strand of hair around her finger. “It certainly appeals to me.”

 

“I'm sure. However, I must inquire as to your intentions towards the human that follows him,” he said casually, glancing at her.

 

She smiled and shook her head. “That is of no business of mine. Though, she won't live too long, I'm sure. She's merely human. Her life will be of no consequence to us.”

 

“And if it were to affect your goal in mating Sesshoumaru-sama? What would you do then?” He turned away from her, his eyes darkening.

 

“I'd simply find a way to get around her. I doubt there is much a human child could do to interfere with the plans of a demon,” she sighed. “I know what you wish. Your dislike of the human is clear to all, even our lord. I shall not kill her, and invoke my future mate's wrath. I suggest you do not either, should you wish to keep your neck.”

 

He growled. “Make no mistake, bitch. I would not betray our lord so. I do believe there are those who would use her against our lord. I will not allow you to do so,” her glared at her briefly, eyes flashing red for a moment. “And do not presume to know my wishes.”

 

With that, he stalked off, leaving the demon to glare at him.

 

Kagome shook her head, surprised by the interaction between the two. She also noted the sour look on her face as she watched him leave.

 

“Bastard. Just wait, you'll get yours…” she muttered almost too low for Kagome to hear.

 

`Sesshoumaru's just gonna love this,' Kagome deadpanned.

 

 

 

“You're late, miko,” Sesshoumaru informed her, glancing up from a beautiful rose bush.

 

“Sorry, but I'm sure you'll understand. Something strange just happened…” she began.

 

She told him about Azatoi's intentions towards him, and the confrontation between Mouko and Azatoi. He remained silent throughout her story, watching her closely.

 

“I see. It is disquieting to think Mouko would betray me. He has been loyal to my family since my father was a child. He most likely believes that keeping Rin here is a risk. He is right, and that is why I travel so often with her. Though he was furious when my father took a human for a mate. I do not believe I can do anything about him at the moment. I shall just have to trust you to keep your eyes open for me. However, I believe I should make it clear to Azatoi that I will not be manipulated into mating her,” he almost growled at the end.

 

“You don't like her?” Kagome asked quietly.

 

He snorted in an almost Inu-Yasha like way that had Kagome fighting back a laugh. “The first time I met her, she attempted to use an illusion powder to seduce me. I have not forgotten that. She is correct that a child between us would be most powerful. However, I do not desire to keep her as a mate,” he sighed, tossing aside a dead flower he removed from the rose bush.

 

“I know that type. In my time they're called gold-diggers. A lot of young, beautiful girls will marry really old rich men so they gain their power and money when the men die. It's sick, really,” Kagome explained, standing next to the tall tai-youkai.

 

“I agree. I do not believe in love like my father before me, but I would prefer to mate a female whom I could tolerate and perhaps enjoy her presence,” he said casually.

 

“I'm sure you'll find someone like that. It's probably much easier for demons then humans. You guys live so long, you can be picky and wait for the right one,” she said with a giggle.

 

“Indeed,” he smirked. “However, I do not like her attitude. She is most likely planning something. Keep an eye on her as much as possible.”

 

“I intend to. There's something about her I don't like. I can't place a finger on it, but…” she trailed off, trying to remember something.

 

“It does not matter at the moment,” Sesshoumaru pushed back a strand of his hair.

 

“No, I suppose it doesn't. You should probably sleep soon, it's getting late,” Kagome said quietly.

 

He nodded and began to walk towards the building when Kagome called out to him.

 

“Aren't you even going to say good night?!”

 

“I assumed you would be following me. Unless you'd prefer to remain here?” he stopped walking for a moment.

 

“Huh? You want me to stay in your room?!?” Kagome cried, surprised.

 

“You are a spirit. I cannot do anything… untoward to you. Nor could you harm me in my sleep. I figure you would prefer to remain near then wander alone for the night. But, you do not need to come with me,” he said before continuing on towards the doors to the castle.

 

“Well… I suppose there's no harm in staying with you…” Kagome said slowly, as she started to walk towards the tai-youkai.

 

 

 

Sesshoumaru got undressed, noticing how the girl turned her back to him to offer him privacy. He snorted in amusement.

 

“What's so funny, Sesshoumaru?” she asked, curious.

 

“You would walk in on a perverted monk and a hanyou bathing, and yet you are too embarrassed to look at me as I dress. You are a rather amusing creature,” He answered, tying the last knot. “I'm dressed.”

 

“How did you- It wasn't like that!” she cried out, embarrassment showing on her face.

 

“Jaken had seen it happen in an attempt to steal Tetsaiga for me. He told me of how you and that taijiya saw the men naked, while they attempted to get the tetsaiga back. It was a most amusing story,” his face was still stoic as ever, but his eyes held a bit of mirth as he remembered the story.

 

“It was an accident! We didn't mean to look! Besides, in my time girls and boys must learn about anatomy. It's not like I hadn't seen pictures of that before. It's required to learn about that,” she tried to defend herself.

 

“And yet, you are embarrassed by it? It seems as if they need to teach you better,” he replied lying down on his bed.

 

“Just because I know about it doesn't mean I can't be modest about it!” she sputtered in indignation.

 

“You speak in circles, Kagome. I do not judge you for what you have seen, nor for your `modesty'. However, I am going to sleep,” with that, he closed his eyes and turned onto his side.

 

Kagome watched him for a moment before sighing quietly. “Good night, Sesshoumaru. Sweet dreams…”

 

`Good night, Kagome…' he thought as he fell into a peaceful slumber.