InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ No End To The Oddness ❯ Fears ( Chapter 6 )

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

I OWN NO ONE!!!

“I want this locked up in the vault. Take the energy to the labs and get it tested. I want this thing broke down. See if it can be used for something other then....evil.” Sango nodded and set to the task. Kagome looked at the clock. It had only taken an hour and a half. The whole day wasn't screwed.

Standing with help from the couch Kagome relaxed. “We can't pretend this never happened because Dagger has gotten more dangerous. It's time we started a hunt. For now though. It is my sons birthday.” Kagome walked out of the room and left everyone.

Shippo sat up in his room waiting for his mother to return. He knew down below him people were doing something but he wasn't sure what. Wanting to know he decided to sneak a peek. Creeping on his toes to the door Shippo placed his ear to the door and lightly opened it trying to not let it squeak. Slipping out into the hall he came face to face with a pair of legs. Swallowing the lump in his throat at being caught he looked up.

Kagome smiled down at her son knowing after so long he was sure to try and peek, hell she would have a long time ago.

“Let's go outside, shall we?” Kagome opened her arms and the small kitsune jumped into her arms and together they flowed into the floor and up near the pool. As soon as Shippo' eyes adjusted to the light he was surprised at the people surrounding them.

“SURPRIZE!!” They all yelled at once.

Tears trickled from his eyes as Shippo picked out friends, gang members and family of friends of family. Shippo smiled at the thought that everyone here was here for him and only him. Kagome could only smile at the kitsune as he looked around.

Isa stepped out of the crowd with her mate and ruffled Shippo's hair. Shippo smiled and tried to fix his now frizzed hair. Kagome petted it back into place and set him on the ground.

The pool was full of people and so was most of the backyard. A table under the gazebo was stuffed with small portions of food and beside it were coolers, Shippo could only guess was drinks.

Tash and Isa had started talking to Kagome about how they had never thought that they would be where they were now without her. Kagome smiled and said something about Koga and Inu Yasha.

Shippo tuned them out and looked around not even seeing the dog and wolf. Somewhere in the background, most likely in the house, Kagome's name was called.

“Shippo, go find CB. She was asking about you.” Kagome winked and ran off to the house.

Smiling at the name of the kitsune girl Shippo scampered off. Many wished him a happy birthday and congratulations as he passed and Shippo thanked them, but his mind was only on CB.

The young girl sat under a tree with Draco. Each holding a drink and whispering.

“Hi CB.” Shippo smiled as he ran up to the girl. “Hey Draco.” The dragon nodded and dismissed himself from the group.

Kagome took the steps two by two. Rushing into her room she stopped at the sight. Tissue paper, bags and wrapping paper covered most of the surfaces. Tape was strung from post to post on the bed and was placed at random parts of the room. In the middle sat two men each pouting. Kagome smiled and stepped lightly around everything. Kneeling down beside her mates Kagome looked at the present they had gotten their son.

The little dirt bike was a perfect size for the boy to start out on his own. The plastic covers were green each with a picture of a fox much like the tattoo the boy now sported.

“What's up?” Kagome asked as she removed a piece of tape from Koga's hair.

“We can't wrap it.” Inu Yasha pouted.

“Ya well you're not really meant to.” Kagome picked up a hand full of ribbon and cleared a place on the floor. Inu Yasha and Koga watched as Kagome twisted and pulled the ribbon into a large bow of many colors. “Tape.” Koga handed her a short strip and Kagome taped it to the handlebars of the bike. “There”

Standing Kagome looked down. Koga and Inu Yasha stood stretching.

“You get to take it down and he can't see it.” Kagome glared at the two men and they blushed. Kissing each Kagome returned to the party.

Shippo blushed as CB grabbed his hand and pulled him towards the house. “Come on.” The two ran up to Kagome as she walked out of the house. Kagome smiled down at CB and nodded her ok knowing what the girl wanted.

CB pulled out a flattish square package and handed it to Shippo. Shippo looked at it a moment before tearing the paper to shreds. Kagome laughed at the picture was now visible. Shippo stared down at the picture of him and CB sitting in a car covered in grease eating ice cream.

“One of the gang members took it and gave it to me.” Shippo stared at it a moment longer and then engulfed CB in a hug. The little girl smiled and hugged him back. Shippo pulled away and kissed her cheek.

“Thank you.” He smiled. CB blushed and looked down at the ground.

“I think it's about time to eat.” Kagome said. Ears all perked up at the mention of more food. Kagome smiled and waved to a group of people. “If you will please help me.” She asked then addressed the crowd. “If you will please make your way to the tables under the trees we will begin. Leave the west to east table free for family and birthday boy. If you will.” Kagome headed into the palace with her group.
Inu Yasha and Koga came down and also helped take platters of food outside. Kagome had never cooked for so many in so little time but was thankful it looked like there was enough. Setting everything down on the tables set-aside for it Kagome headed back in.

Coming out with silverware she placed it where needed and left to let everyone get food.

Inu Yasha and Koga followed her to the table watching as Shippo and CB piled their plates with food.

“You should eat.” Inu Yasha pushed. Taking Kagome's hand he placed a kiss on it.

“I know.” Kagome whispered “But I don't have the energy to get anything.”
”We'll get you something.” Koga stood and nodded to Inu Yasha and they left to join the growing line of people.

Kagome remained sitting and relaxing.

Shippo returned and took his seat at the head of the table. Smiling down at Kagome he mouthed a thank you and dug into the plate of food.

Moments later Isa and Tash sat down and ate. Inu Yasha and Koga were the last two to return to the table. Koga placed a plate in front of Kagome and smiled. She returned the smile and began picking at the food in front of her. In truth, she wasn't all that hungry and was so tired that she could barely keep her eyes open. However, it was Shippo's birthday and she wasn't going to wimp out on the poor boy because of how she felt.

Taking the beer bottle in front of her Kagome pushed herself to her feet. “I'd like to make a toast to the birthday boy. We all know him as a sweet young innocent boy that has turned one day older. Well he's not. Today he takes a step towards turning into that man that we see everyday destined for great things in life. Not many of you know this but we've been trying to get Shippo adopted and into our growing family. However, things don't seem to be working all that well so this is my way of making it official.” Turning to Shippo she looked at him. “Shippo, as a friend and a mother figure do you take me as your new adoptive mother?”
Shippo opened his mouth completely at a loss of what to say. She wanted him to be her real son. No new pups would take his place. He would be her oldest son in everyway. “Yes.” He whispered.

“Then I say this now in front of all our friends and family. Welcome Shippo to the Tashio-Ookami family.” Kagome raised her bottle higher and took a drink and finally her seat.

Shippo was in tears but didn't make a noise. He looked down the table at his mother and let the tears fall. Cheering and hollering from in front of him brightened his smile. He wasn't alone any more… he had a family.

Kagome looked down to Shippo and winked.

“Well that works too.” Inu Yasha leaned in and whispered to Kagome.

“Hey, if the government don't want to work with us then I'll do it myself.” Kagome turned to look at Inu Yasha and he noted that her voice held a note of power to it, ending the conversation.
”Good job.” He kissed her cheek and returned to his food.

After everyone had eaten a good portion of the laid out food Kagome stood and dismissed herself from the table. She hurried inside took a handful of pictures of the cake and placed a knife in her mouth. Slowly making her way back to the tables outside. Inu Yasha saw his mate heading towards them with the cake and hurried to help her. Taking the knife from her mouth he took another look at the double layer sheet cake homemade and hand designed.

“Happy Birthday to you.” Everyone started singing. “Happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Shippo, happy Birthday to you.” Someone near the middle of the crowd started to sing a different version and it also soon caught on. Kagome looked over and smiled as Hikoushi lead the singing. Smiling at the falcon pilot she shook her head.
setting the cake in front of Shippo she placed candles randomly and lit them. Shippo closed his eyes and blew out the flickering flames. All the candles went out and Kagome took the knife from Inu Yasha handing it to the boy.

“You get to cut.” She smiled and went around the table to help if needed.

Shippo marveled over the cake for a moment and then began cutting away at it.

Kagome smiled as the last of the cake was ate and everyone began taking again.
”I think it's time for presents and hanging out.” Kagome stood.

“We'll get everything. You stay and talk with Shippo.” Tash smiled and stood. Isa, Inu Yasha, and Koga all stood to bring presents to the table. Shippo hurried to Kagome's lap and sat down looking up at her.

“Thank you.” He whispered blushing.
”For what hun?” Kagome leaned forward and kissed his head.

“For adopting me and this party and everything else you have done for me.” Kagome smiled and hugged the boy. Shippo hugged back and began to cry again.

“Shushhhhh.” Kagome cooed as she petted his hair rocking. “No crying remember it's your happy day.” Shippo nodded and wiped the tears away.

“Ok, here Shippo.” Shippo looked the large oversized box Tash and Inu Yasha placed in front of him and Kagome. He looked at the card and began tearing at the wrapping paper.

“Who's it from?” Kagome asked.

“Thunder and Lightning.” Shippo ripped at the paper fasted revealing a small life like version of a red mustang. Kagome smiled and looked at cardboard sides that gave the appearance of a box. Pulling them away Kagome smile widened seeing that the car wasn't plastic but was made of real car parts and materials. The keys sat in the ignition. Buttons were labeled for the roof, the trunk and the gas cover. A radio system had been stripped down and placed in the car to fit. All in all the car looked like someone had shrunk a mustang. Shippo called out his thank you and Tash, along with Inu Yasha placed the car on the ground. Koga placed a much smaller set of boxes on the table and Shippo ripped them apart revealing many tools, a toolbox, and many smaller trinkets. He once again thanked everyone.

“I know how much you like to read.” Kagome said as Koga place her present in front of the boy. Shippo opened the gift and stared down at the very large book. He'd bee up for a week 24/7 reading it. He said his thanks and gave Kagome a kiss.

“Ok runt, this is from us.” Koga and Inu Yasha said together handing the boy a set of keys with a bow.

“What do they go to?” Shippo asked looking around.

“It's in the garage, we'll go later and you can see what it is, but for now it's a surprise.”

Kagome glared at her mates, that was the best they could think up. Give Shippo the keys and put it into the garage. Boy were they lazy.

Shaking it off Kagome let it go.

Later that night after everyone had left or crashed in the extra rooms, Kagome pulled off her clothes and climbed into bed.

Shippo had passed out a few hours after sunset marking the end of his birthday but not of the party. People had stayed, had a few drinks, went swimming, danced, talked and laughed. Surprisingly enough the grounds were still very clean.

Inu Yasha and Koga watched as their mate undressed and joined them in bed.

“I thought you were mad at us still.” Koga whispered.

“I'm to tired right now to do anything but lay here with you two and relax. I'm so tired.” She yawned and cuddled against Koga's chest. Inu Yasha scooted close enough to snuggle with Kagome without over heating them all. Koga placed a hand on her hip as Inu Yasha took his turn placing his arm over her waist to lightly rest on her stomach. They had been taking turns doing that and Kagome smiled at how easily both men worked with each other to be fair to the other. Kagome let their warmth sink into her and she fell to sleep.

Kagome woke with a jolt sitting up in the bed. Koga and Inu Yasha were turned away from her both still deep in their dreams. Kagome took in a staggered breath and let it out. Sweat ran down her face to fall on the covers. Placing a hand on her stomach Kagome listened. Nothing seemed out of place. Listening harder and pushing her power out to flood the palace Kagome waited. Everyone was asleep. Still something was wrong. Slipping out of the bed and slowly through the floor Kagome came up in the living room. Walking lightly on the balls of her feet she crept room to room. In the kitchen Kagome looked at the open window. Something clicked and a tink tink tink echoed through the room. Kagome looked around wildly. Someone had been here. Smelling the air she could only pick up the faint trace of sulfur. And the sound continued slowly at a same rate. Kagome smelled the air and walked slowly to the bar leaning down Kagome looked at the underside.

Her eyes widened. Strapped using a good amount of duck tape was C4 and other explosives. Enough to blow up the palace plus. Looking at the surface Kagome looked at the timer. It was set to go off, if she was correct, at 8 am.

That was breakfast. Everyone would be up and most likely eating. Eyes widening to large disks Kagome back peddled and turned running. She hit the hall in a dead sprint and rushed up through the wall to Isa and Tash's room.

“There's a bomb in the kitchen!!” She panted. Tash was immediately up. “Under the bar. It's huge. If I did the math right it will go off at 8, but I'm not sure if there is a remote. Help me get everyone up and I'll take who I can to the shrine. Those who are left behind will have to escape some other way.”
”There is a hidden underground passage that leads to the stables.” Tash shook Isa gently.

“It's not far enough. This bomb will blow up the whole grounds. Who ever set it is watching, I don't think they know I can move through a solid area. I can place a barrier around it but I don't know if I could hold it when it blasts. Plus it will limit my trips on transporting people.”
”I see. Take the smaller demons and humans, us older full demons can run.”
”Ya but if you all run then who ever is watching is going to know where you go.”
”Damn. It's to late to be thinking this fast.” Tash rubbed his eyes and stood. Isa rolled over and jumped at the sight of Kagome naked in her room with her husband.

“I'll get the lower levels and the more important humans out. Isa, Shippo, Rin and the cooks will be the first trip. Get them up and get a bag each of clothes. I can't handle too much weight and each trip will be harder and harder. Try not to turn on any of the lights.” Kagome looked out the window and scrubbed at her face. Turning to leave she stopped when Tash addressed her.

“Kagome, you will make a fine queen.”

Kagome looked back once more before leaving. “I hope so.”

As Kagome shut the door she heard Tash explain to his wife what was going on. Running down the hall to Sesshomaru's room she bagged on the door.

“Enter if you want to die.” Someone growled inside.

Kagome chanced it and opened the door hitting the ground just in time to miss the poison whip as is hit the door frame.

“There is a bomb in the kitchen, get Rin up and dressed so I can get her to the shrine. Don't turn on any lights and try to stay quiet.” Kagome looked up as a shower of splinters and drywall rained down on her.

“This Sesshomaru will do as asked.” Kagome left with that not wanting to piss him off more. After all everyone needed their beauty sleep, him more than others. Grabbing Shippo and his backpack she stuffed it with clothes and picked up the boy.

Koga and Inu Yasha woke when Kagome opened the door and it hit the wall. Turing to their sides they panicked at kagome's state.

Her hair was a mess and she had no clothes on. In her arms Shippo lay fast asleep a small backpack was hitched up on one shoulder. The whole picture shouted “runner” but Kagome moved quickly and gracefully with an aura of certainty and power. Staying quite the two men sat up. Kagome looked their way and smiled. She winked at them and relief flooded them.

“We have to go.” Placing Shippo on the bed and placing the backpack down Kagome turned and went to get dressed.

Inu Yasha and Koga were at her side in seconds. Pulling on a pair of jeans and a shirt Kagome turned. “There is a bomb under the bar in the kitchen. I don't know if it has a remote to detonate it but the timer should stop at about 8. We have 6 hours to evacuate this palace and the grounds of everyone without being seen. I'm taking Isa, Shippo and Rin to the shrine first along with both cooks. Tash and I figure that the person who set the bomb is still watching so no one can leave and the underground tunnel to the stables will be of no help. You two need to wake the house, someone also needs to call Sango and let her know what's going on. Leave all the lights off and stay quite.” Turning Kagome slipped into a pair of shoes she kept under the bed. Who cared about tradition right now this was an emergency. Koga grabbed his phone and called Sango. Kagome ran out of the room and came face to face with the four people she needed. Grabbing Shippo and his bag she handed him to Isa, Wrapped her arms around the group as much as she could and flooded into the palace to the earth and across town to her shrine. The trip took all but five seconds. Coming up in the living room Kagome let out a breath as the energy left her.
”Please make yourselves at home, there should be a few racers upstairs, if someone could wake them and let them know what is going on it would be of a big help. I'll need some strong tea and some light food also once you get settled in.” Bowing Kagome left without a goodbye and returned to the palace.

Coming up in front of the front door Kagome looked around. There weren't that many people who lived there thankfully and she could make it hopefully. Calming her nerves and pushing away all fears Kagome took the steps two by two. Koga and Tash met her half way.

“Sango said to drop everyone off at Kyade's shop, since it's closer than the shrine itself. Someone there will take them to the shrine.” Koga said calmly.

“Everyone has been woken and is packing lightly. I'm glad most of Shippo's new toys were taken to the garage with the racers rather than left here. I'd hate to tell him it's all gone.”
Kagome nodded and looked around.

“I need the next group ready, I can do four at a time. Tash, Koga, you and Inu Yasha will be the last ones, I want you to gather your armor and weapons, put them on if you can and pack light. Any other things that you do not want destroyed needs to be put in a net or something that will make it easy to carry. Weight limit is one ton. Once you all are safe if I have the energy I'll come back and put up barriers in the garage, some bedrooms and other places if I can.”
”Don't worry about the palace, guard the stables and the garage. I'm not worried about the house.”

Inu Yasha was waiting at the end at the hall with a group of twenty or so people. Four stepped forward and Kagome embraced them and took a direct rout to Kyade's shop, leaving them just inside. Leaving with a few parting words Kagome returned with the next group. The trips were easier now that she didn't have to go all the way to the shrine but she still popped up for food and a drink only to return back to work. Each trip seemed to take more and more energy. With two trips left Kagome was grateful for the break. Only two hours had passed since the start of the evacuation but that didn't mean things were done. Inu Yasha, Koga and Tash had all changed into their armors and strapped on their weapons. Kagome smiled at the feudal men and took the last group leaving the men behind.

InuYasha watched as his mate left. He could feel her weakening and felt helpless. Returning to their room one last time he noticed the Jewel of Four Souls on the bed. Taking it in his hand he sighed. Knowing Kagome hadn't meant to leave it there he let his frustration go. Back in the hall Koga shouted to him that it was time to leave. With one last look Inu Yasha turned his back and left his room where so many memories rested.

Kagome was loosing color Inu Yasha could tell as he came closer to her. Holding up the necklace and jewel Inu Yasha placed it over Kagome's head. Instantly the jewel's light flooded the hall and spread over Kagome entering her body through every pore and opening there was.

“Much better.” Kagome rolled her shoulders and looked at the men in front of her.

Once again Kagome had amazed her mates, with each large use of the jewel Kagome changed, her once brown eyes had gone to black, now her black onyx hair was silver tinsel. Inu Yasha reached forward and let the silver strands fall through his fingers. It wasn't the time. Embracing his mate He made room for his father and best-friend.
Once all three men clung tightly to her Kagome slipped through the floor and earth taking them straight to the shrine. Sango was already there with many of the other inhabitances of the palace.

Kagome left the room not paying attention at the shocked faces of her friends and gang members.

Grabbing her bow from the living room and the quiver. Kagome grabbed as many arrows as she could and stuffed them in behind her into the quiver. Returning to the kitchen she accepted a cup of tea and took a sip.

“I'll go set up as many barriers as I can. Is there anywhere that must have a barrier?” After a moment of silent no one said a word. “The stables and garage. That's it?” Kagome pushed.

“Ya.” Tash said after running though every room in the house. Even the hidden rooms and safes held nothing that important. He was even surprised when Kagome told him to put on his armor. Sesshomaru had left a few groups after Rin had, stating that he should be there to help if things went wrong there also. Kagome had agreed and took him to the Shrine directly.

InuYasha looked back at his brother who leaned against the wall wearing his furry pelts and dragon bone armor.

“I'm sorry that I have caused this problem and had to make you leave your home.” Kagome amended.

“Oh don't start that.” Tash growled. Kagome stepped back shocked. “You have given my son and Koga a mate. You have given this family a jump, we no longer see the same way we did months ago. Your life has made ours better and more real. You are part of this family and your not going to start regretting it. I know you love all of us in different ways, some more than others. And we are all thankful that you saved us. Who knows that bomb was even for you? It could have been for me or Sesshomaru.” Taking a deep breath Tash let everything out. He loved Kagome like the daughter he had always wanted. She wasn't going to starting thinking everything was her fault.

InuYasha and Koga watched as Tash calmed the beast. Sesshomaru placed a hand on Kagome's shoulder. She never even seen him move.

“Father is right, if not for you this Sesshomaru and Inu Yasha would have to marry foreign maidens. And for that I am thankful not to have to do. Rin is with pup and the family grows strong. Something that months ago seemed impossible.” Kagome looked at the man and was lost.

Sesshomaru had never really seemed to like her, yes he did talk lightly to her and seemed at ease in her presents, but ever did she think he watched her.

Nodding once Kagome took a deep breath. Drinking the rest of her tea she walked to the doorframe leading into the living room. “With all the sweet words you have said it makes me feel wanted. But. I can not let myself forget that if not for the jewel, in which I possess, none of this would have happened. And by thinking that I can only think it is my fault.” With those words Kagome left the house not even fully dropping into the earth before she sped off into the night to save what she could. Tears left her eyes unnoticed as she approached the palace.

Lately she had come to calling it home. Now thoughts of leaving rushed through her almost as fast as she traveled.

Surfacing in the kitchen next to the bomb Kagome placed an arrow on the string of her bow aimed and fired embedding the arrow deep in the floor. Moving around she placed three more and a light pink surface appeared wrapping around the bar and bomb. Aiming she fired eight more to seal off the two doors leading out. Flowing into the garage she placed one in each corner and let the barrier build up around.

The stables were that last. Kagome came up and dusted herself off. Looking around she was amazed at the creatures held in the cells. Twin headed horses covered in scales. Each cell was marked with a different name. The one next to Kagome had a gold plate labeled `Ah- un'. Reading the name Kagome looked at the gray green animal. It sniffed and snorted at her but did nothing more. Kagome placed a hand on one of it's muzzles and whispered a few words. The creature huffed and nudged Kagome's hand.

“Your right I have work to do.” Taking another arrow Kagome aimed and let it fly. It landed with a thunk deep in the wood. She placed three more in the ceiling and moved to the corners on the floor to complete the shield. Once it was set Kagome looked around the stables and found paper in one of the offices. Taking a pen Kagome wrote a short letter and tacked it to Au-un' cell door.

“I think your safe now.” Kagome patted the strange horse once more and left.

Kagome didn't know where she would go or even how long she would be gone but she did know one thing: she was a danger to the royal family. And to her that could not be tolerated. Thinking once more of her mates, but not the last time, Kagome let the earth push her farther and farther from home.

It was almost morning and Kagome hadn't returned yet. Inu Yasha and Koga paced the living room. Everyone from the palace had arrived back at the temple in one piece.

“She should be back by now.” Koga whined.

“You heard her last words, I don't think she will come back.” Inu Yasha looked out the window into the dusty morning, the sun was just now kissing the horizon.

“She loves you. Kagome just needs time to get everything straight, she's so worried about you and us that she only wants the best. We can tell her and tell her but she was brought up different and thinks different. We know what we can do and we know we will be fine but to her we are her only family left and having lost the other family she doesn't want to lose anyone else. She already feels bad about them and adding to it would kill her. She is still pure and had a deep love. She'll be back but not soon.” Tash placed a hand on his son's shoulder.

Koga came and tapped Inu Yasha on the shoulder. “I think we should try and figure out who did this.”

“I agree.” More than one person in the room replied.

Kagome crawled from the earth miles away from the city. The lights were just a foggy horizon that mixed with the coming dawn. She was tired beyond anything else. Laying down in the tall grass Kagome rested. A cold sweat hung on her as she panted for air. It was so cold.

A pair of black shoes came into sight. Kagome didn't even have the energy to look up.

“Why did you leave them?”

“Because I'm not worth their lives. I have learned the hard way that no matter where I go I will always be endangering someone. I have a reminder of them all with me and when it is safe I will return to them and say a proper good-bye.” Kagome whispered.

“Kagome your family has never left you. Your mother, father, and brother are all looking down on you. You are always protected. if not by your family then by me, and if not by me then by your mates. The children you carry may be yours and your mates but it is only a harsh reminder of what you truly want.”

The man sat down and pulled Kagome's tired and worn body into his arms.

“Why do you care?”

“Because Kagome. I have been to hell and the light has tormented me. Every time I look at you I can see the angels above you. I know that all the mistakes I have made will bar me from the light, but they can't bar me from you. I understand you have been marked by two men and there is no more room for me, but no matter what I will protect you.” Naraku placed a soft kiss on her brow and covered her with his pelt.

“I have forgiven you so many times, but something happens and the hate returns. I am a miko, and I must see beyond the hate. I am tired of the fear, the hate and the pain. I want it all to stop.”

“Go to sleep. I will return you to where you belong.” Naraku stood in one fluid motion.

“Wait, If I can find a way for you to go to the light and be at peace, will you still watch over me?” Kagome whispered slipping slowly into the waiting darkness.

“I will always watch over you my dear rose, but I doubt there is a path to the light for me.”

Kagome let the words burn into the mind before falling asleep.

Everyone was in a larger circle in the living room talking. Inu Yasha and Koga both had calmed down enough to help in the discussion.

“I hope I'm not interrupting.” All eyes turned to the unused chair that held Kagome's scent the most. Naraku sat cradling kagome's body. She was wrapped in his pelt and was fast asleep but unharmed.

“What are you doing with her?!” Koga snarled.

“I have returned your mate. Be happy she is alive and the wolves did not eat her while she slept.” Naraku hissed. “Kagome will be safe from all harm. She and the pups are being watched over by things you have no control over. If not if them and me she would be dead along time ago. She may be a miko but she is not completely indestructible.” With that Naraku stood, lay Kagome in the chair and left. The pelt wrapped tightly around her remaining.

Inu Yasha stepped forward and plucked her from the chair and raced upstairs. Before anyone knew it Koga was gone also.

Inu Yasha placed Kagome on her bed and took care when he removed the pelt of white baboon fur. The fur reeked of a corpse and of an animal but the miko's skin only had her's and their smell. Koga pulled a piece of grass from the sleeping woman's hair. He was angry that their enemy had come from nowhere baring to them their charge, the woman they were devoted to. As he watched the woman his temper subsided and soon was nothing more then embers.

Inu Yasha placed his sword on the dresser and pulled the fire rat robs off. Laying down beside his mate he wrapped her in his arms and nuzzled his mark.

Koga removed his furs and followed Inu Yasha and he too lay down and nuzzled his mark. Together they stayed awake the whole night watching and protecting their mate.

Kagome looked around the barren area. There was nothing but a wind and a field of unmoving grass. She could sense no one and could see nothing out of the ordinary.

“Daughter.” The wind whispered. “Sister.” ”Mother.”

“Who is there!?” Kagome turned.

At the farthest point of the field, Kagome could just barely make out three figures. Kagome looked out trying to see then but something in the corner of her eye turned her away. Another figure stood out also and beside that one another. Soon the whole horizon what covered in black figures. In minutes, it seemed, the whole field around her was filled with them.

Kagome looked around the field. It was all so strange. Where was she?

“We are the dead that have found the light within your lifetime. We protect you like others did the last. You are our daughter, our sister, our mother.” The echo of voices was overpowering and Kagome bowed to it.

Something in her pulsed. It knocked the air from her and pushed farther to the ground. Once the pain stopped she felt drained and cold. “Why?”

“The miko of each age will bring peace and glory to her home and give great sacrifices.” The all said.

“I just want to live.” Kagome screamed.

“You do live. You live because you must.”

“No, I live because I am loved. I am something more than a pawn. I will protect those who need protecting but not everyone is worth. Many do wrong and must learn. Others suffer from wrongs. And some are victims, they are he ones that turn to doing wrong. Then the ones who do wrong learn and regret. Those who have learned and understand need protecting. Few in this world have taken a better path, one with less death and pain. You force me onto a path of destruction and pain, you are not the ones who make up the world and the rules and the laws. That is the kami's job and you are not him!” Kagome stood and flared the power, what she had, and pushed the mass away from her. “Those who love and want me for the person I am are the one's who need protecting. They have dealt with the world and have survived. They do not create pain or kill for revenge. The people I protect, protect others. Those are the people who make a difference. Why should I save someone who abuses the things of our world. Why should I save a man who will just go get drunk and kill himself? Why should I save a child whose mother is going to kill it by giving it adult medicine to make it be quiet? This is the world I live in. Now let me leave!”
Kagome was ripped from the field and slammed into her body. Letting out a blood-chilling scream she pushed at the darkness. Her throat was dry and tight. She body was cold and stiff. She felt almost dead.
”KAGOME!” Two voices screamed and she felt fire pressing her down.

Inu Yasha and Koga pressed Kagome back on the bed. She had woke up after two days. Each day she seemed to get worse until today when it seemed like she was a corpse. They bathed her, dressed her, and took turns brushing her hair but she health was falling and the fear of losing her had set in.
Seconds ago she was still and silent, then she sat up and screamed something that had even them scared.

They screamed her name and waited from her to stop. It seemed to never end.

Kagome opened her eyes and quickly shut then as bright light greeted her. Burring her face in the fire she lay whimpering.

“Koga shut the blinds.” Some of the fire left and she cracked an eye. The light wasn't so bad now.

Kagome looked at the fire and recognized a man. He was beautiful. “Who are you?”

The man looked hurt but responded. “I am Inu Yasha and that is Koga. You are our mate. We love you and you love us.” The man said slowly. Kagome racked her brain and finally images flooded her mind. There was so much pain, but at the same time so much love.

Kagome looked into the light and the second man addressed. “Koga.” She breathed.

“Yes, do you know anything?” Koga pressed.

“It's coming back to me. I'll be fine guys, can I get some water and some aspirin?”

“Ya hold on.” Koga rushed across the room and unlocked the door. He whispered something and returned to the bed.

“What happened?” Inu Yasha pressed. “It's been two days. You look deathly pale and sick. We've tried to keep you well but it didn't help.”
”I seen shadows of people in my dreams.” Kagome sat up and Inu Yasha let his hands fall away. She pulled her knees to her chest and wrapped her arms around her. “I think I was dead for a bit but I kept talking about people loving me and stuff. It's probably the only reason I'm alive right now.”

“Thank kami either way.” Koga breathed. Someone knocked and Koga retrieved a glass of water and bottle of pills.

Koga and Inu Yasha helped bathe Kagome and had food brought up to her. She ate and told them the dream. They talked until night and then went to sleep.

It was still dark out when Kagome woke up. She looked at the two men at her sides and kissed each of their heads. Then she flowed through the bed and up beside the bed. It barely even fazed her. Dressing she slipped downstairs into the kitchen. Someone had defiantly stocked up on food. Kagome was in the mood to do something but breakfast wasn't on her mind. Taking out the large boxes of eggs she placed then on the table and dug out the flour. After finding everything she began to bake. It wasn't the first time she had woken up in the middle of the night of restless she just came to the kitchen and started to cook. She remembered every time her mom coming in when she got up and smiled, hugged her daughter and made tea. Souta would take half of it to school and share with everyone while she took enough for some of her classes and left enough for the week at home.

She smiled at the memory as she placed scoops of cookie dough on a baking sheet. The cookies would be about the size of a tea cup saucer. She placed two sheets in each of the four ovens and began on a layer cake. Having so many people over she was sure that everything would be eaten.

The timer went off just as the cakes were in their pans waiting for the oven. Pulling out the cookies she replaced them with cakes and set to something else.

When the sun was beginning to raise Kagome was just sitting down to frost her three cakes. Two were filled with cream and then there was her favorite, the four-layer cake. Each level of the layered cake was smaller than the one under it and was a different shape. Kagome Filled one of the hollow cakes with a chocolate cream and placed a round base on it. The second one of the two she placed a cream cheese flavored cream in it and set it on it's base also. Smiling she pulled the icing bowl over to her and set to covering them. The wedding cake she made a light blue with red and green flowers. Beaded trim crisscrossed to make a pattern of what looked like draped pearls. Finally at the top she free handed a Sakura blossom and branch.

Rin and both cooks were the first ones in the kitchen. Rin happily chatting about some dream she had. They looked up and all rushed to tackle Kagome, having not seem her in so long.

“What are you doing cooking!?” One of the cooks scolded.

“Just felt like it. I should get back upstairs though. Can you set these stuff up so everyone is welcome to it?” Kagome asked.

“Of course Lady Kagome.” They smiled and gave her one last hug each and let her return to her room.

Inu Yasha and Koga were both still out cold when Kagome stripped and climbed back into bed. She snuggled into the small area between them and started to go back to sleep.

“Umm….Kagome?” Inu Yasha muttered.

Kagome nuzzled his neck and pushed up so she could lay on his shoulder for better access. “I'm here.” She muttered.

Koga groaned beside her and began waking up. Kagome kissed Inu Yasha's neck once more and rolled over to give her second mate the same attention. By the time both of them were awake Kagome had lavished them with more than kisses, if it was possible.

Sitting up and stretching Kagome smiled as both mates placed their heads in her lap and looked up with silly grins on their faces.

“We missed you.” They said at the same time.

“I'm sorry I left in the first place. I know I belong here and it seems like I have to do the wrong thing before I can do the right thing. I'm just glad nothing happened that can't be fixed.”

“Dad explained it all to us. We get it and can wait for you to understand that you are safe here.” Koga and Inu Yasha rolled over and pushed Kagome back onto the bed. She relaxed and let their love wash away everything. They kissed her ribs and slowly moved up taking their time. Koga was the first to take one of her breasts in his mouth but Inu Yasha wasn't far behind. They reached down almost in sync and ran their hands over her thighs teasing the hot place between them.

Both men left the soft mounds of her chest and kissed up to their mating marks nipping and licking. Kagome orgasmed before she even realize she was aware of it. Taking in deep breaths and trying to bring everything back together she closed her eyes. There were plenty of times she could remember their love making and many times she had passed out but she wasn't sure where her mates were putting her. Sweat poured off her and she shivered in the cool room.

InuYasha and Koga smiled at her and at each other before pulling the blanket over them.

Sesshomaru looked at the kitchen ceiling and growled. He smelled the change when Kagome had taken a toll for the worst and when she woke up. And now he could smell almost everything going on in her room happening and about to happen. Growling he left the house with his father to go to work.