InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Shivering Sands ❯ Incandescent ( Chapter 18 )

A/N: I have the next set of chapters outlined so they should come much sooner. :)

 

“There,” Sana said as she swept the last of the imaginary dust out the front door of her immaculate home. “Mama,” Kagome said with a smile as she sat at her mother's kitchen table. “There is no dust. You're the neatest person I know. Soot sweeping for you is an oxymoron.”

 

“It's the sentiment dear,” Sana said as she inspected the floor. “Its symbolic.” Kagome looked over her shoulder. “Souta,” she called into the living room, “Are you finished?”

 

“Almost,” he said from his position on the floor. “It does no good if its put up after New Year,” she chided. “I'm coming, I'm coming,” he said grudgingly before handing his collection of bamboo to her. She tied it to her mass of pine straw to create the Kadomatsu, a traditional good luck charm.

 

“There,” she said exultingly. “Now we can put it outside.” “I'll do it,” Souta said as he lifted it and moved toward the front door. “It looks great Souta. Thank you,” she said, fluffing his hair as she stood beside him. He squirmed but didn't complain. He had missed her, so he put up with it.

 

“Souta,” Sana called, “check on Grandfather please. Its time for him to dress, he has a busy night and day ahead.” “Okay,” he said, heading upstairs.”

 

Kagome laid her head back against the chair and sighed. Sana noticed, and stood behind her chair. Kagome glanced upward. “He doesn't really talk to me,” she said quietly, referring to her grandfather. “Only if he has to.”

 

Sana smoothed her hair. “Just give it time. Don't worry about him.” She kissed her forehead, and went back into the kitchen.

 

A few moments passed before Souta walked down the stairs once more. “Gramps asked if you would get his prayer beads from the well house?” `He won't even ask me himself, he asks Souta to do it,' she thought sadly.

 

“Okay,” she told him, standing and walking toward the back door. She removed her scarf, foregoing her coat since it was a short distance and she wouldn't be outside long. She walked quickly along the well-worn path, as the crisp air was calm at the moment, but subject to whipping through the trees at times.

 

Upon reaching the well house, she flicked on the light, which lit the room dimly. She knelt upon the wooden floor, casting her eyes about the shelves for the charm. After searching for several moments, her skin prickled slightly and she began to feel as if she was no longer alone.

 

She cast her eyes about the room, and then paused, as she felt a presence near. “Sess,” she said tentatively. He appeared in the doorway and a feeling of relief suffused her. “You're made it.” “As I said I would,” he said stepping further into the room.

 

He swept the shelves with a cursory glance. “What is it you seek,” he asked as he came near her. “Something for Grandfather,” she said as he paused at her side, gazing at the rows of artifacts. “I trust its nothing strenuous,” he said, his eyes upon the heavier objects upon the shelves.

 

“No, just a favorite charm of his.” She dug in the shelf before her, reaching toward an item near the back. “Here it is,” she said, removing a beaded necklace from its resting place. She wrapped it around her wrist, and then looked upward at him once more.

 

He slid his hands beneath her arms and lifted her from her position on the floor to stand before him, her scent filling his senses. She felt a little flutter as his eyes met hers. “I'd better give this to him, its almost time,” she said glancing at her wrist. He nodded.

 

As they exited the well house, they were met with the sounds of Grandpa screeching at the top of his lungs. “Where is that girl? Souta, Hari, open the gates. Inform everyone that we are to begin,” he said, casting his eyes about for Kagome.

 

Kagome touched his shoulder, and he jumped slightly. “Here you are Grandfather,” she said, holding out the beads in her hand. He cast a baleful eye at Sesshomaru as if to say before he sniffed and waddled off.

 

“I see his disposition has not changed,” Sesshomaru said dryly. “He'll come around,” she said uncertainly. His anger, she knew, was based on his being the assumptions he made about their relationship, and the child growing within her. Not to mention his being a demon. `Much of it is my fault though,' she thought sadly. `I could explain more but it's just so hard to talk to him.'

 

She cast her arms about her shoulders. “I need my coat,” she told him, with a little glance at his face before she slipped away from him. She went inside, slid on her floor-length coat and tightened the hood about her neck. She glanced around, searching for signs of her mother.

 

“Are you coming Mom,” she asked, her hand upon the knob. “Yes, shortly,” Sana called from within the kitchen. “Okay.”

 

Outside, the courtyard was filling with people who decided to ring in the New Year at the shrine, a tradition held by many throughout the nation. She found Sesshomaru near the edge of the throng, slightly cast in the dark near the trees.

 

She stood beside him, and watched as people continued to pour into the shrine. Grandfather and Souta and the other ceremony participants waited in silence, staring before them.

 

“We're waiting for the bells at the Buddhist temples,” she explained, tilting her head slightly backward so that she could see his face. “Its almost time,” she said softly. At that moment, all eyes turned the brightly lit Zojoji temple, perched on the highest hillside in Tokyo.

 

As midnight arrived, the crowd clapped their hands together and bowed their heads in prayer as one as Sesshomaru looked on. The strident sound of bells rang throughout the city, which was believed to wipe away the one hundred and eight sins of man.

 

As the requisite peals of the bells rang out, Kagome finished her prayers and glanced around, wanting to take in the beauty of the sight before her. The sound of a gong drew everyone's attention. “Now Grandfather is starting,” she said quietly as she turned to her former position.

 

They watched as her grandfather lit incense, and then sat upon the dais, his hands clasped in meditation. Souta collected the offerings made by the visitors before they pulled the cord of the bell before the offertory box, clapped their hands together and uttered their prayer for the year.

 

After finishing a prayer, the individual would then travel to the stalls of Hari and the other shrine maidens to collect their fortune. After shaking a box full of bamboo sticks a number appeared through the top of the box. The shrine maiden then issued the corresponding fortune upon the paper.

 

Kagome shook her head as people tied their fortunes to the trees surrounding the shrine. “The paper, when it falls, drives Mom crazy sometimes,” she told him. Before leaving, many visitors purchased amulets and other charms to ward off bad omens for the year. On the street below the shrine, various venders sold wares and snacks to the burgeoning crowds.

 

After watching the activity for some time, she turned to face him. Tomorrow would be a busy day for her mother and family; this crowd was simply the beginning and she could see more tomorrow. Her eyes swept over his face, the soft intensity of his profile. She had missed him the past few days.

 

“I think I've seen enough,” she said. “You wish to leave,” he said, his eyes meeting hers. She nodded slowly. “Yes.”

 

~~

 

After saying goodbye to her mother, Kagome and Sesshomaru departed the shrine on foot. “Are you able to walk the distance,” he asked as they began walking across the grassy knoll that eventually led to the coast. “Yeah,” she replied. “Its not far.”

 

They continued walking silently, until he spoke. “I assume there are more rituals,” he said as they crossed into the coastal sands. She nodded. “Returning home to dream of a hawk or Mount Fuji, and waking up to watch the sunrise for tonight. It's supposed to bring luck.”

 

She paused as she felt an unfamiliar sensation deep within. He stopped immediately and turned his head. He gazed at her expectantly. The sensation continued; it was like the gentle fluttering of delicate butterfly wings.

 

She looked into his eyes. “I think he's moving,” she said breathlessly as she reached for his hand. She placed it upon her stomach, and looked to his face. “Can you feel it,” she asked.

 

As he felt the tiny pulses against his hand, his features softened. He nodded. “I can hear it as well.” Their eyes met, and a fluttering began in her chest. “It feels like...butterflies,” she said softly.

 

When the fluttering subsided, he removed his hand. His gaze remained upon her as he assiduously buttoned her coat. “Let us continue,” he said, looking ahead. Kagome nodded, and they continued their trek toward the house.

 

She considered him as she walked by his side. She had no difficulty reading him in this moment. She knew he was pleased.

 

~~

 

Drying herself thoroughly after a long shower, Kagome dressed in a midnight blue nightshirt and departed the room. She found Sesshomaru sitting in the lounge chair gazing out the window thoughtfully.

 

“Its not that long until morning,” she said, wiping her face one last time with the towel before discarding it. “I might just stay awake. I probably won't be able to wake up if I fall asleep.” He nodded.

 

She looked unsure of herself for a moment, not knowing what to do next. She felt a bit shy being that they had been away from one another for a few days. “Come here,” he said quietly, his eyes assessing her.

 

A tiny smile came to her face and she did so, lying comfortably in his lap. “Tell me if I put too much weight on you,” she said, laying her head against his shoulder. His mouth twitched slightly. She amused him when she said things like that.

 

He considered her slowly. She still remained as small as ever throughout most of her body, but her stomach was now rounded and visible no matter what she wore. She was silent for a moment before saying, “This is the longest we've been apart.”

 

He nodded. “Five hundred years not withstanding.” She smiled slightly. “Yeah.” She laid her face gently against his chest. “Were you sick,” he asked. “It comes and it goes,” she said with a sigh. “I never know.” She was silent for a moment. “And you were in Azerbaijan.” He nodded. “What's it like,” she asked, gazing up at him.

 

“Arid in the central plains, subtropical to the east in Baku.” “And you went to see,” she trailed, raising her hand to his ear, and sliding it between her fingers. “One of father's old friends,” he said, his eyes narrowing pleasurably from her movement.

 

“What did he want,” she asked.

 

“My cooperation in a personal matter of his.”

 

“Will you?”

 

“Perhaps. There are things to consider.”

 

She nodded, removing her hand from his ear to. “I hope my grandfather comes around soon,” she said quietly. “He won't talk to me.” His gaze rested upon her. He felt a bristle of irritation because her grandfather's attitude has continued for some time and was affecting her. “Does his opinion matter so much?” She was silent for a few moments. “A little,” she said in a subdued tone.

 

“Part of it is my fault,” she said slowly. “I never explained much to him. He thinks that my being with you is improper in every way.” She looked down at her hands. “You shouldn't let it affect you,” he said seriously.

 

“I just can't help it,” she said quietly. “It bothers me a little. But things are taking place regardless of whether he approves or not so.”

 

He paused, thinking of his father. It had frustrated him that his father simply didn't care what he though of Izayoi. “Don't allow him the advantage of knowing his approval matters.”

 

She nodded then considered her stomach thoughtfully “He's doing it again,” she said, referring to the return of the fluttering movements of her son. He felt it as well as the side of her stomach rested against him.

 

“He seems active,” he said, his eyes observing the miniscule vibrations. “It will probably scare me to death when it happens and I'm asleep,” she said. They were silent for some time before she spoke once more. “It surreal really,” she said. “It makes him seem more real to me.”

 

She fiddled with her sleeve. “Its not that he wasn't before. He just seems more so now.” She settled herself so that she laid her head in his lap, facing him. His eyes met hers as she gazed at him solemnly for a few moments.

 

“You look just like your mother,” she said softly. He raised his brow slightly, wondering what made her think of her. “I was just thinking about how children take after their parents,” she replied, interpreting his look correctly. “You appear to have her personality.” She considered him thoughtfully. “But I see your father in you as well,” she said slowly.

 

“In what way,” he asked, curious to hear her analysis. “Everything I've ever heard about your father indicated that he was very fiery person. But your mother, she seemed to be cool and unaffected, always. You seem to be like her, but when there is a point where you get so angry, I think you become exactly like your father.”

 

He was slightly taken aback by her assessment. “Interesting,” he said slowly, as memories of his childhood came to the fore. He focused his attention upon her as she spoke once again.

 

“Do you think this thing with Ronin will be resolved soon?” “Yes,” he answered. “If it was anyone else, Ronin would have simply killed him. But certain situational factors surround this incident so he is trying to be understanding.”

 

She sighed softly and he noticed. “It's nothing. Don't worry.” She shook her head. “You know I can't do that. That is just about the only thing we argue about,” she said with a slight smile.

 

She grew quiet for some time, sitting curled in his lap. And as he knew she would, she drifted off just before the dawn. He let her sleep as he considered his movements for the next few days, waking her just moments before the sun rose.

 

She opened her eyes. “I wouldn't want you to lose your luck,” he said quietly, and she smiled at him.

 

~~~~

 

It was late afternoon as Kagome lay upon the bed, her hand shielding her eyes from the light from outside.

 

Although a few weeks had passed, her morning sickness remained with her, and she experienced nausea during some point of most days. All she could do was lay upon the bed until she felt able to eat. With the added discomfort of her son moving more and more each day, she was absolutely miserable.

 

Her thoughts traveled to the previous afternoon when her family had joined them in the castle. Particularly pleasing to her was the breaking of the ice between her grandfather and Sesshomaru.

 

She had taken his advice sometime before and had begun to seem disinterested in her grandfather. Her family had come over for a visit; her grandfather's first. “He had missed you,” her mother told her later. “He doesn't like not speaking to you anymore than you did.”

 

As he eyed the multitude of ancient treasures that Sesshomaru had throughout the castle, her grandfather had been wide eyed. But when he came upon an ancient Kuan Yin statue, he simply couldn't contain himself. They talked for some time over the aesthetics of the pieces, as both were interested in antiques. When the family departed that night, he had demanded that she get her rest, which made her smile tremulously.

 

She stirred slightly as Sesshomaru entered the room, returning from town. He sat down upon the bed beside her, and lifted her hand from her eyes gently. She squinted painfully and he felt a surge of pity.

 

He trailed his index finger against her ear, comforting her in a small way. As he did so, he said, “I have to somewhere I must be tomorrow.” She closed her eyes for a moment as a sliver of anxiety passed through her. “Where,” she said quietly. “Kyoto.”

 

“Oh,” she said despondently. “How long will you be gone?” “Two days,” he said evenly, having gauged correctly that she was upset. “I'd like for you to go as well.”

 

Her eyes searched his. “Really?”

 

“There is a procedure at the onsen that is thought to alleviate your condition.” She nodded, allowing a little smile to cross her features. “Thank you.” She was quiet for a few moments then spoke once more. “When would we leave?”

 

He glanced outside for a moment. “Later today if you are well enough.” She nodded. “I should be,” she said closing her eyes. “I have to be.”

 

~

 

The landscape passed in a blur of winter brown peppered with scattered embankments of white snow as the speeding Shinkansen wound through the countryside. The two sat beside one another lounging in reclining, leather-backed chairs. She had admired the countryside for some time before turning to him, drawing her legs up to rest to her side.

 

“I can't believe you have your own compartment on the bullet train,” she said. “I do own the rail system,” he said quietly. That surprised her. She tilted her head sideways. “You're just full of surprises,” she said with a little smile. “It keeps you interested,” he said lightly, and she laughed.

 

“I thought this would be most comfortable for you,” he said, his eyes assessing her state. “It is,” she assured him. She glanced at the window opposite to where they sat. “We'll still have a little bit of daylight left when we get there,” she said laying her head back and closing her eyes.

 

~~

 

After arriving in Kyoto, they exited the train, and boarded a car for a short trip through the city until they arrived at Kurama onsen, situated in the northern mountains of Kyoto.

 

Kagome gazed upward as she was assisted out and stood before the entrance of the sprawling, traditional ryokan that scaled up the small mountain in multiple levels. The powdery white snow nestling upon the roof near sunset simply added to the beauty of the setting.

 

As they stepped through the front entrance, they were greeted with deep bows by the okami and the rest of her staff. The rich interior was paneled with wood of a medium golden shade; the floor covered in tatami mats of light beige accenting the golden wooden floors. Enormous windows underscored the room. It was a beautiful ryokan, and she felt so contented.

 

While they stood waiting for their bags to be loaded, she touched the top of his hand faintly. “Thank you,” she said softly. “This is the best thing you could have done.” He nodded slowly, undeniably pleasured at her praise.

 

They were shown to their room located at the top of the hill. The high windows provided panoramic views of the opposite mountain, valleys and lake situated between the two peaks. The room featured Western style beds, a low zataku table, and zaizu legless chairs with zubatu cushions and kyosoku armrests.

 

Sesshomaru nodded his approval at the Nakai-san, the personal room maid, who bowed, introducing herself as Sai. “Will there be anything you need,” she asked him. “Not now,” he said. “Yes sir. Here are your Yukata and slippers,” she said, handing the items to them both. “We have somewhere to be tonight before we use these,” he said. She nodded and with a bow, shuffled out the room.

 

“We're leaving,” she said curiously. He nodded before turning and heading toward the bathroom.

 

~~

 

She leaned her head back against the soft black leather of the limo seat. “Where are we going,” she asked as they drove through the streets of Kyoto. “Gion,” he said quietly, his eyes upon her. She wore a shin length black dress, with a scoop at the back, which displayed her creamy skin. It accented her rounded shape perfectly.

 

Her eyes lit up. “I've always wanted to go there,” she said softly.

 

~~

 

Gion was an odyssey back in time. It was as if she stepped into the ancient past once more, but different from that she experienced before. The two stepped out of the limo, being that the streets were narrower than most.

 

As they traversed the narrow streets of the geiko geisha district, her gaze took in the old world atmosphere, from the architecture to the traditional dress of many of its inhabitants. She gazed curiously at a maiko geisha, one in training to become a true geisha, heading toward her appointment.

 

He paused before a teahouse, where an ageless old woman beckoned him in. “Come in sir,” she said with a low bow, and as the door swept open, she saw a number of people lounging around a stage, some drinking tea or anything else they preferred. Her ears were filled with the sound of raucous laughter as the crowd was being amused by a joke told by a favorite geisha of this particular teahouse.

 

Several other geisha were in the room, speaking to various clients. Kagome simply took all of this in as Sesshomaru told the housemistress. “Just tea,” he told her. He sat back and eyed Kagome as she looked about her, taking everything in. “I wish to speak to someone before we continue.” She nodded slightly, before turning her attention to the stage. He stood and walked toward the back room, led by the proprietress.

 

As the door slid open, his eyes met the gaze of the turquoise-eyed demon as she stood overlooking a window. She was clad in a ruby red kimono with diaphanous purple patterns. She turned to face him, her eyes softening as they met his. “I take it he's somewhere near,” he said as he paused before her.

 

She nodded. “He wishes to meet with you, I think in attempt to feel you out, and see where you stand on this. I think he is going to try to catch you unawares.” He nodded. “We'll meet again later,” he said as they walked toward the door. It slid open and he allowed her to walk first, hanging back for a moment, as they wouldn't be seen together.

 

Kagome glanced upward and her eyes were arrested by one of the most beautiful women she had ever seen. Long blue-black hair and skin as clear as porcelain. Most arresting, were her turquoise eyes, which met hers for a brief moment before she passed by. `A demon,' she thought in some surprise. She gazed at Sesshomaru as he returned to her side.

 

“We have somewhere to be soon,” he said putting his hand upon her back. “That woman,” she said quietly, her eyes still on her departing form, “she's a demon.” He nodded slowly, his eyes meeting hers. “That was whom I met with,” he said, deciding to tell her.

 

Kagome smiled half heartedly, feeling a slight pang. “Oh.” He tilted his head slightly, noting that she seemed upset and discerned the reason. “She's an old friend of mine. She is gathering information for me. “I see,” she said, deciding to push away those feelings.

 

She gave him a little smile. “Are you ready to leave?” She felt a sliver of pride in that moment. She knew she was growing up. He nodded, leading her to the doorway and out into the crowded street.

 

They walked down the street, and near its end, a large theatre to which they were headed. His eyes roamed over the street as he recalled his previous time here. “This is Gion as I remember it,” he said quietly. “I remained here for most of the 19th century before returning to Tokyo.

 

She nodded, fascinated at this insight into his past. “Why,” she asked. He was silent for a moment. “I found the political intrigues of the time interesting to observe,” he said.

 

She nodded. “Where are we going,” she asked in laughing exasperation. “You've kept me in suspense.” He flicked his gaze to the theatre that was now before them.

 

~

 

She watched, transfixed, to his amusement, as did he, at the performance of Naozamurai, the story of a samurai on the run and the courtesan Michitose, who loved him. As Naozamurai escaped the guards into the woods, uttering the fateful words that he would never again see her, Michitose collapses to rousing applause.

 

They each stood, exiting the building and into the waiting limo to return to the ryokan. She sat beside him, her head lying against his shoulder; she was tired, but contented. “I loved it,” she told him. “That was the best I've ever seen it done. Thank you for taking me, “ she said softly. He acknowledged her thanks with a tilt of his head.

 

He was pleased to have made her happy. “It happens to be one of my favorites,” he said. She smiled. “Mine too.” She folded her hands across her stomach. Her eyes low, she admired his appearance. She felt the slight flutter in her stomach and she smiled to herself.

 

~~

 

The two were quiet as they returned to their room. As soon as they entered, Sesshomaru loosened his sash and hung it upon the back of a chair. She sat upon the edge of the bed, and gently eased out of her shoes. He sat upon the opposite side and began removing his clothing as well. She glanced over her shoulder in an appeal to him.

 

“Will you unzip me,” she asked softly.

 

He nodded, and she swept her hair over her shoulder so that he could reach the back unrestricted. He pulled the zipper, exposing the soft and creamy skin of back. He paused for a few moments as he looked at her. It had been sometime since he had seen her back unfettered as he was in this moment, the black shade a contrast to her pearlescent skin.

 

“Did you enjoy yourself,” he asked.

 

She nodded, and their faces were very near one another. “Very much,” she said in the same soft tone as before. “Thank you.” She kissed him gently upon the lips. For a few moments, he allowed himself to respond, drawn by the sweetness in her kiss, the way her lips moved across his soft and pliant.

 

He broke the kiss, retaining his gentle hold upon chin. “You need your rest,” he said quietly. She nodded, feeling a little disappointed that it ended. He continued his perusal of her face. “I'll be in the shower. Unless you wish to go.” She shook her head. “I'll go after you,” she said.

 

He set her aside gently, and she lay with her face upon the pillow watching him walk into the bath area. He entered, and as he disappeared behind the wall, he closed his eyes and breathed in deeply for a few moments before washing his face in the sink.

 

As he exited the bathroom, his eyes went to her. She was asleep, her dress still on, her face upon the fluffy white comforter. `Just as I supposed,' he mused. He removed her dress with care, sliding her arms out of the sleeves, and gently pulling the rest from beneath her.

 

She stirred slightly, wrapping her arms around pillow beside her but continued sleeping. He watched her sleep for a few moments, then put her beneath the covers, dressed in his robes and left the ryokan.

 

~~~

 

It had begun once again, that familiar churning of her stomach that left her nearly immobile. Her mouth felt both dry and saturated. She blinked slowly, unable to remain still for a moment longer. She had slept fitfully as the onslaught of morning sickness began, and was exhausted. The smell of breakfast in the room only added to her misery.

 

Sesshomaru closed the door to the room, having allowed the staff to bring in the trays for her. He joined her, sitting upon the edge of the bed beside her. He placed his hand upon her back, in an effort to comfort her.

 

She opened her eyes and looked to him wearily. “It was suggested that you eat before you begin,” he said quietly. “To alleviate some of your symptoms.” She shook her head slowly. “It's just going to come right up.” He reached. “I'll send for them now.”

 

~~

 

Kagome sat in a chair dressed in a light pink yukata, her hand over her eyes as she waited for her treatment. Sesshomaru stood beside her in silver, his hand upon her shoulder as his eyes remained on the door. She glanced at him gratefully for staying with her.

 

The door opened and the okami entered the room flanked by several members of the staff. She bowed then announced, “Chen will be in charge of your treatment,” indicating a small middle age woman who stepped forward.

 

After bowing to them both, Chen turned to Kagome and said, “I have been filled in by Sesshomaru-sama about your condition. I will perform acupressure to relieve your symptoms. It is very effective. You should begin to feel relief almost immediately,” she said with a smile.

 

Kagome looked at Sesshomaru once more. “You're in good hands,” he said. “I know,” she said quietly, her eyes soft. “I'll be near,” he said before slipping his hand from her shoulder, then following the okami out the room.

 

“Come here dear,” Chen said, putting her hand upon her shoulder and ushering her to a table with a sizeable padded scoop in the middle. “I can tell you're miserable. Please lay upon the table. “On my stomach,” she asked with a smile. “Yes,” Chen said, smiling as well.

 

She did so, sighing as she lay upon the cushions, fitting her stomach into the large space for her stomach. “You have no idea how good this feels,” she said with a sigh. “Oh yes I do,” Chen said and they both laughed.

 

“I'm going to remove your robe from you. I'll place a towel upon your lower half.” Kagome nodded. She did so and then brought out a tray. “What I'll be doing next is an acupressure massage,” she said, rubbing her hands together with oil in preparation. Kagome sighed as Chen's hands began massaging her, as her touch felt heavenly.

 

After just seconds under her careful ministrations, she felt the nausea begin to evaporate. She glanced around the room, finally able to take it in now that she began to feel better. A one-way window allowed her a view of the garden but shielded her from the outside. The room was filled with plants, and a rock waterfall cascaded against the opposing wall.

 

The soft music, sounds of running water and the firm yet gentle touch of Chen's hands caused her to drift into a light sleep. “Poor little thing,” she said as she massaged her lower back. “I'm glad I could help her,”

 

~~

 

Sesshomaru entered the silent steam room, following behind the slender bath mistress as she led him to the center pool. She removed his robe reverently, unable to prevent her eyes from sweeping over his body. “Thank you. You may go,” he said as he settled in the water, closing his eyes.

 

“Yes, my lord,” she said with a quick bow and one last glimpse of him before departing. He sat quietly for some time, emptying his head of all thoughts. The door opened quietly and someone padded into the room.

 

Sesshomaru did not move nor open his eyes; he simply continued to sit quietly. The newcomer was beautiful, with a fair golden skin tone, his short dark brown hair waved about his head, his slanted turquoise eyes were rimmed by thick black lashes. He wore ballooned blue-green pants beneath his turquoise and gold yukata.

 

He undressed quietly and slid into the water. Finally, Sesshomaru spoke. “What is it you want, Ashur?” The newcomer tilted his head, and then smiled. “I never would have believed it if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes,” Ashur Khan said with a laugh. He continued chuckling for a few moments.

 

Sesshomaru opened his eyes. “Am I supposed to know what it is you speak of,” he said in a disinterested tone. Ashur raised his brow. “You with a human,” he said slowly. “I suppose we're allowed our amusements.” He settled back against the rounded edge of the pool and met Sesshomaru's eyes steadily.

 

“Why are you here and not in that hellhole you call a territory,” Sesshomaru said quietly.

 

“I came here to speak with you about that,” Ashur said easily, propping his arms behind his head. “I plan on gaining new ones. I'm in need of a more temperate climate,” he said with a shrug.

 

“I know of your alliance with Ronin,” he continued. “I advise you to let it go. The lands will be mine. My future son will hold the lands in Turkmenistan. Convince your friend to leave now, and that daughter of his will be spared.”

 

Sesshomaru closed his eyes. “You knew when you came here, that he nor I would not accede to that.”

 

“Hmm.” Ashur smiled. “You yourself have much more to worry about, with that concubine of yours ready to whelp,” he insinuatingly.

 

Sesshomaru's hand came up and the green light of his poison whip eerily lit the room. He wrapped the poison tip around the slender neck of Ashur, yanking him forward so that his face was inches before his. His eyes opened so that they were mere slits. “You should recall that I have no problem killing you. You won't return to that arid hell of yours,” he said softly.

 

He released him, throwing him across the room where he landed upon his feet. “Out of our association of long standing, I'll let you live today,” he said, closing his eyes once more.

 

Ashur dried himself, smiling as he did so. “Diplomacy was never your strong suit,” he said sardonically. He tied his towel around him, picked up his clothing, and then he left just as quickly as he came.

 

After a few moments, the bath mistress peeked timidly around the corner, and looked incredulous at the water pouring off the wall. “My lord?”

 

“Its time for my massage,” he said his eyes remaining closed. “Yes, right this way,” she said, heading in his direction with his towel.

 

~~

 

Kagome entered the room, visibly relaxed after her treatment. She rubbed her towel gingerly over her temple, and looked up to find Sesshomaru lying upon the bed in thought.

 

“Hi,” she said hesitantly. “How was the onsen,” she asked as she placed the towel on the back of the desk chair. His eyes flickered half open. “It was satisfactory.”

 

She sat upon the edge of the bed next to him and pulled her legs beneath her to rest to the right of her body. She observed him for a few moments before she spoke. “There's something on your mind,” she said quietly in a soothing tone. “Tell me.”

 

His eyes swept over her slowly before he responded. “I was paid a visit by an old nemesis of mine. We knew each other as pups. He is the one currently antagonizing Ronin.” “Hmm,” she said, propping herself upon her elbow. “Why?” “He's an ass.”

 

She giggled slightly. “Is that the reason?” “He claims that it is about land. His own are in Turkmenistan. However, he has a long standing grudge concerning Mai.”

 

Her eyes widened slightly. “He wants to hurt her,” she asked. He shook his head slowly, and then she understood. “Oh.”

 

She sighed and gazed downward for a few moments. He noticed her sudden preoccupation and discerned the reason for it.

 

He pulled her to him so that her upper body lay across his chest, as her lower body remained curled to her side. “It is petty,” he told her. “Simply a show of force for Ashur, and a way for him to feel important.” Her eyes met his. “I see.”

 

“And what of you,” he asked. She looked at him blankly for a moment before smiling. “It's gone,” she said simply. “I started feeling better right away. She gave me acupressure bands to wear when I'm away from here.”

 

“Hmm,” he murmured. “So all is well.” She nodded. She leaned slightly and placed a gentle kiss to the underside of his chin. “I'm glad you brought me here.” His eyes flickered into hers for a moment then lowered, but not before she could see what she had hoped was in his eyes, and she felt buoyed with the knowledge.

 

“I'm going to go eat, now that I can,” she said as she returned to her former position. “And then to the rotenburo.”

 

He nodded. “I have something scheduled as well.” She stood and his eyes followed her as she left.

 

~~

 

Sai escorted her to the open-air onsen known as a rotenburo. The late January air was blowing softly as it was sunset and the blue of twilight was spreading across the sky. Framed by the reddish gold wood similar to that of the lodge of the ryokan, the raised pool was heated by a natural volcanic underground fissure.

 

She removed her robe and slipped in the steamy water, sighing as she did so. “If you need anything, I'll be near,” Sai said with a little bow.

 

Kagome leaned her head back and sighed. The sun had set behind the surrounding blue mountain range and the lake was placidly reflecting the colors of the sky.

 

She breathed in deeply, enjoying the feeling of the cold air in contrast to the steamy heat of the pool. She felt wonderful. `I finally feel like I have my health back,' she thought. There was something else too. Sesshomaru. She had wondered about his apparent indifference to her for sometime.

 

She leaned her chin against her folded hands. “But now I know,” she whispered softly.

 

~~

 

As the night deepened, Kagome padded down the softly glowing hallways, seeking their room. Languidly, she pushed open the door, desiring to relax upon the bed. To her surprise, Sesshomaru was in the room, lying upon his back with his eyes closed.

She walked toward the edge of the bed, and sat upon her side of it.

 

She lay across the spread of his thighs, lying upon her right side slightly so that no pressure would be put upon her abdomen. Her eyes flickered slightly before placing a feather light kiss upon his lips. His eyes opened; she could see their amber lights so clearly.

 

She kissed him again, this time biting him softly upon his bottom lip. He didn't move, but his eyes instantly became darker. “Do you miss me as much as I miss you,” she asked with a kiss to his chin.

 

He did. He wanted her and she knew it.

He found her so very desirable. He slid his hands up and down her back. “You know I do.” With the growing bump in her stomach, she looked like the picture of fertility.

 

“I know now. I didn't before,” her eyes meeting his. “You've been ill,” he said slowly. The desire in his eyes that he had hidden was now unchecked. “I know,” she said as he opened the front of her robe. “But I'm not now.”

 

His eyed her appreciatively; her body looked so ripe and lush to him. “I didn't want to hurt you.” She shivered at the way he looked at her. His eyes looked deliciously gold and amber, reflecting in the dancing firelight.

 

“But you won't,” she whispered, feeling relief flood through her body at the verbalization that that was the reason for his reticence. He slid his hand behind her back, the other behind her neck, his thumb upon the outline of her jaw.

 

His eyes lowered as his lips met hers in a gentle kiss, full of possession and longing. Her pulse leapt erratically as she felt the heat of his kiss, his mouth delving against hers sensuously.

 

He slid her robe off of her shoulders, as he marveled as the creamy softness of her back. His claws resting upon her spine wreaked havoc with her senses. She moaned softly as he leaned her head back gently and alternately bit her neck and soothed it with his kiss.

 

He felt a surge of want deep within, only tempered by the satisfaction he felt by having her in his arms. He had longed for her these months but her illness caused him to temper his desire.

 

Their lips met once more and he pulled her gently into a sitting position upon his lap, wrapping her legs about him. She then removed the robe from the top of his shoulders, her hands sliding across his bare chest reverently.

 

He leaned forward as they continued kissing one another, he bent her body back somewhat as it was supported by his hands to trail kisses to her delicate collarbone and the top of her chest.

 

She sighed as he kissed the peak of each of her breasts, his mouth laving her gently. As he slowly pulled her body upright, she brought her lips to his, kissing him gently before biting his lip fiercely, causing him to shudder.

 

She slid her arms around his back, pressing her body closer to his as she began kissing his chin, before trailing her lips to his sensitive neck. His senses heightened with each kiss she placed there, his skin on fire because of her touch.

 

He settled her atop him gently after seeing the acquiescence in her eyes. Neither could wait any longer. He entered her slowly, careful not to injure her and her body quivered wildly.

 

Their bodies exploded, and as she came to, she found that he had laid her upon her side so that her back was to him. His arms were wrapped about her and he bent and placed a kiss upon the top of her head and she closed her eyes, a faint flush covering her cheeks.

 

~~

 

It was a beautiful spring afternoon as she sat upon a blanket upon the lawns, playing with her kicking son. He squealed as she blew upon his stomach, and she smiled indulgently, laughing at his joy. His features were yet a blur from her line of sight as she continued blowing upon his stomach, when a dark shadow loomed overhead.

 

She turned sharply and saw Kikyo standing over her, her eyes filled with her usual grave expression. Kagome leaned back slightly, shielding her son with her body protectively before addressing her.

 

`Why won't you leave me alone,” she said despairingly. “Because I can't,” Kikyo said calmly.

 

She started out of her sleep; her eyes flew open as she became conscious of her surroundings. She noticed Sesshomaru was no longer in the room with her as she glanced at the other side of the bed.

 

She rolled slowly upon her side, and noticed a large shadow hovering over her, its enormous talons outstretched as it swooped downward. She drew her breath in sharply and screamed piercingly.

 

Sesshomaru entered the room at a furious pace and quickly beheaded the object. It fell to the floor with a sickening thud, its blood splaying upon her white yukata and to her face. She stared blankly at the dark red drops upon her robe for a few moments, not noticing the slight spray that had hit her face.

 

“Are you injured,” he asked, tilting her chin upward and checking for injury. He wiped the blood from her cheek with his sleeve. She breathed in slowly. “No,” she said in a voice that sounded strange to her ears. Her heart pounded within her chest, and she trembled slightly. She peered downward from the edge of the bed.

 

“What is that thing,” she asked. He was silent for a few moments before saying, “It's a hawk demon.”

 

`A Goshawk. Native to Turkmenistan,' he thought slowly.

 

He looked at the blood on his claws dripping slowly downward. “He is beginning to piss me off,” he said softly.