InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ That's the Way Love Goes ❯ V ( Chapter 5 )

A/N: You guys rock. I wonder if you're telling people about my story, because even though there aren't many reviews, I still get notifications of favorites and subscriptions and watchers and whatnot. I thank you all so much for that. Holy angst, Batman! The end of this chapter killed me. AGAIN, reviews are fuel and love. Sorry, again, for leaving it where I did. Believe me, it was necessary… T-T

Once more, (***) will denote a dream sequence OR a flashback.

Thanks for reading!:

FanFiction.net: kittyb78, knifethrower, moondust369

InuYashaFanFiction: BrownEyesOnlyForSesshy15, Muts

dA: cali2007, Sharia, luvtodraw, no1s angel

The Red Curtain: jns3372

Replies:

A-Single-Spark:

DivaG - I'm glad you like it. Yeah, I never saw Sessh as a `castle' kind of guy. Cooped up in a castle with a ton of youkai around him? He'd kill them all! No, he's better with just Rin and Jaken. You'll see where the story leads, as far as any previous attraction. In the meantime - thank you for understanding!!!! It is so rare that someone understands that he's not in character because of his condition. Again, thanks! I'm so glad that you're looking deep into the characters, too. If you keep reviewing, I'll keep writing. Thanks again!

MediaMiner:

brainshake - Yep. I've been hyperventilating over the past couple of weeks to see what would happen. I've got some good stuff to use now. ;) Hmm… I can't wait for him to get his memories back. I miss the old Sessh. XD So I'm eager to write him for you guys. But… patience is a virtue… Oh, yeah - LOL I realized that later! I was like… >.> Umm… How did Ah-Un get in there??? XDDD

buzzk97 - Thanks so much! ^_^ I love it when fans are reading more than one of my stories. I love writing for slightly-bigger-Shippou. He's gonna be a real heart-breaker when he's older. ^_^ I know what you mean - I often find myself feeling bad for Inuyasha. But, he had his chance. And he blew it. It's Sessh's turn. ;)

KittenSeras - Thanks! And I hope to get another review from you soon! : )

 

“Yeah, take every little bitty piece of my soul...
Yeah, take every little bitty piece of my mind...
'Cause if you're gone...

Inside...I'd die without you...” -I'd Die Without You, PM Dawn

 

 

Chapter V

 

 

The next day sucked. Royally.

 

Not only had Kagome have to sneak into her own house for fear that her family would see what she was wearing, but she felt… sticky. She needed a shower, badly.

 

But the next day, the feeling had not dissipated, and she had more problems, now. Along with the tiniest amount of blood, she was having cramps, and she felt a little feverish, although that could be from staying out in the rain.

 

So she took some Tylenol and trudged through the day. She was elated about Sesshoumaru… was this going to be a real relationship? What about Inuyasha? Her heart twanged painfully when she thought of him, although whether it was pity or longing, she wasn't sure. Luckily, the pain of her first sexual experience was keeping her grounded, so that her nosy friends wouldn't ask her a million questions. Actually, ever since she had started High School, her life had seemed “normal” once again to her friends, and they hardly ever questioned her anymore.

 

But now, as she walked home, would come the difficult part. She would have to tell her mother about the uniform. Perhaps she could get a part-time job and pay for a new uniform? In the mean time, she had to wear one that was newer; one that her mother would scream at her for wearing, when she had another one that was perfectly useable… Kagome giggled to herself. Yeah, about that, mom…

 

She kept thinking about yesterday. It had haunted her, and she could barely concentrate on her studies. All this time, she had been released from thinking too much about her other life, since Naraku was gone. But now, her life was once again thrown into disarray. And all she could think about was Sesshoumaru. The way he could melt her with a single touch, a kiss, a word… And he was so gentle and tender and caring… Kagome stopped herself. She sounded like a gushing teenager! Well, she was. But she didn't want to be, and now that she thought about it, she sounded silly.

 

So Kagome climbed the steps to the shrine, attempting to go straight to her room and change. But, of course, her mother always knew when she was home. She was like a bloodhound, an eagle, a fennec fox… Somehow, through scent, sight, or sound, her mother knew.

 

“Kagome! Oh, you're home, lovely!”

 

Kagome rolled her eyes; it didn't go unnoticed that she wouldn't have done so if she was facing her mother. Well, she thought. At least she never saw me come home in Sesshoumaru's kimono…

 

Kagome turned, making sure her smile was bright and genuine. “Hi, mama, I'm back.”

 

“Welcome back, dear,” her mother said. Then, as expected, she stopped in her tracks a few feet from her daughter, examining the uniform. “Kagome, dear. Why are you using the new uniform? Did the old one finally give out?”

 

Kagome noticed her mother seemed more concerned than angry and exhaled mentally. “Yeah, mama. The skirts'… uh, band ripped and the shirt tore…” Well, it wasn't complete lie. She merely forgot to mention that the top was ripped by an Ogre and the skirt was torn by Sesshoumaru…

 

“Oh, okay. Well, at least you had a spare,” her mother said cheerfully before banging around in a cupboard.

 

Well, that was easy, Kagome thought. Perhaps she shouldn't have hyperventilated when she thought about telling her mother. When had she begun keeping things from her mother because she thought she wouldn't understand? Her mother had been her best friend, until…

 

Until Sango. Ever since Naraku had been destroyed, her Feudal Friends had become replacements for her family. Actually, it was more like they were her real family, and these people were the replacements while she attended school. Her brother was the replacement for Shippou, and she ignored her jii-chan like she did Miroku. Whereas she used to tell her mother everything, now she told Sango. And Inuyasha… Well, there was no replacement for him because he was usually in both eras. But there was absolutely no replacement for Sesshoumaru.

 

Now she felt the strong pull - the pull towards the well house. But, she had only been here a day! Usually, she enjoyed her time with her family: she slept in a soft bed, took hot baths, and watched TV. Why was she so anxious to go back? She scoffed at herself. She wasn't stupid. A fool, maybe. But stupid, no. There was a difference. And the tug on her soul reminded her that Sesshoumaru was the reason she was a fool. What was she doing, anyways?

 

Kagome had climbed the stairs leading to the second floor, where her bedroom, as well as the others', was located. As she undressed, her hand travelled over the expanse of skin that was lightly marred and still fading. She marveled at the new skin. How had she healed so quickly? Perhaps it had been her powers, even though she had put that notion down when it was mentioned. After all, she hadn't felt her powers flare. But perhaps she had become powerful enough that if she required healing, it was done automatically? No, then she would have been healed days ago.

 

Frustrated, Kagome changed into a sweater and jeans. The weather began to get cooler today; she hadn't expected it because she had gotten home just in time for dinner and then went to bed, not allowing her to view the weather forecast on TV.

 

*****

 

She couldn't believe her luck! Souta was probably in his room playing, and jii-chan had fallen asleep on the couch. Her mother… well, she wasn't sure - she could be in her room, or perhaps ran to the store for a forgotten ingredient in tonight's' dinner. Regardless, there was no one around as she peered in the kitchen door. She made a mad dash for the stairs, taking two, sometimes three at a time. When she finally closed her door - quietly - she leaned against the back and tried to catch her breath. Quickly, she untied the yellow and blue obi and threw it and the kimono on her bed. She reached wildly for her drawers, searching for a new set of clothes.

 

When she was satisfied that she looked like she had been home for a while, she folded the kimono and obi and tucked them under her pillow. Running her hands over her hair, she went downstairs to meet her family. Her mother was in the kitchen, and she heard her brother bounding down the stairs after her.

 

“Hi, mama,” she had said a little nervously.

 

“Oh, hello, dear. When did you get home?”

 

Kagome fumbled with her fingers. “A little while ago. I wanted to catch up on some studying, so I didn't bother anyone,” she said, looking out the window.

 

“Oh, ok. How's Inuyasha?” her mother asked innocently.

 

The name sent Kagome's heart beating erratically. She honestly didn't know how Inuyasha was doing. She hadn't really paid attention… “I, uh… he's fine, I guess,” Kagome said, now realizing she had been staring at Goshinboku through the kitchen window.

 

Her mother noticed how tense she was, and how she wasn't looking at her. Kagome was a terrible liar. But Kagome also knew when she wanted something hidden, and if she wasn't ready to tell her what was wrong, she daren't ask. Mrs. Higurashi went back to stirring her rice and told Kagome that dinner would be ready soon and to please wake up her grandfather. She giggled a matronly chuckle; muttered something about Kagome's father and falling apples and trees.

 

Kagome didn't have to wake her grandfather. Souta had done that, which was apparent by the argument they were having when Kagome walked in.

 

“Hey, sis,” Souta had chirped. “When did you get here?”

 

“Am I not allowed to be here or something?” Kagome shouted angrily.

 

Souta and his grandfather looked at each other.

 

“Dinner!” came a melodic voice from the adjoining room.

 

Kagome sighed as she followed her family to the table.

 

After dinner, Kagome was so exhausted - between the lying, the strain on her body, and her families' antics - that she went straight to bed. She didn't undress, just lay face down on her bed and settled. Bringing her arms up under her pillow, she felt the characteristic soft fabric of Sesshoumaru's kimono. Smiling as she grasped hold, she fell into slumber.

 

*****

 

She studied for a few hours before her mother called for supper. They had had a quieter dinner tonight, but Kagome was restless; she still felt the nagging pull on her soul towards the well house. After dinner, Kagome helped her mother clean the dishes. Her mother hummed softly as she dried; Kagome was washing, thinking about her situation. Her brother and grandfather had retired to the living room.

 

She sighed, and her mother felt it coming. “Mama?”

 

“Yes, my dear?” She tried to sound as nonchalant as possible.

 

Kagome searched for the words. But her tongue failed her. Realizing her daughter was stuck, she fumbled for a way to ease her into it. If Kagome ever had problems for the past three years, it was almost always about Inuyasha.

 

“So, when can I expect Inuyasha to come for ramen?” she asked her eldest child.

 

Kagome almost dropped the teacup she was holding.

 

“Uh, mama… about that…” Mrs. Higurashi watched as her child fumbled and tensed. Something wasn't right.

 

All she could do was wait for Kagome to open up.

 

It was as if her mother could see right through her. She was asking all the right questions, and Kagome was hesitant to answer them. But why shouldn't she? After all, if she left out the parts that contained blood, horror, pain, and sex, it was a pretty good story. With a collective sigh, Kagome relented.

 

“Mama, I don't think Inuyasha will be coming by very much from now on. I… I don't know. We're not… We were never really together…”

 

At her daughter's pause, she could tell where this was going. “And it's been three years,” she said, almost to no one in particular.

 

“Exactly!” Kagome said both excitedly and angrily. With a nod from her mother, she continued, emboldened now. “It's been so long, and Miroku and Sango have been married for two years now, and Shippou is growing up, and where am I? I'm still stuck in the same place!”

 

“Well, so is Inuyasha, I'm assuming,” her mother said objectively.

 

This brought Kagome up short. “Eh?”

 

“Well, for the past two years, nothing really has changed for him, either, right?”

 

Kagome thought this over. Nothing changed for him? She tried to argue a point to her mother, but came up with nothing solid. She was right; Inuyasha's life was the same as well. But… was she expecting something different? Was he?

 

“But mama, what could be different for him?” she asked.

 

“Well, I don't know,” she told her daughter truthfully. “You would know better than I would. But look at it this way. He is still protecting you and the village-”

 

“So are Sango and Miroku,” Kagome interrupted stubbornly.

 

Her mother laughed. “Well, yes. But their lives had changed. You said that Miroku had a hole in his hand that vanished when you defeated this Naraku?” Her daughter nodded. “Well, then, his life changed. And your friend Sango, she had a brother that was brought back to her?” Kagome had turned her R-rated life into a G-rated story for her mothers' sake. She nodded again. “Then her life changed as well. They both accomplished what they had set out to do.”

 

“But so did Inuyasha!”

 

“Yes, he defeated his enemy. But what about his first girlfriend?”

 

“Kikyou?” Kagome said, the name stumbling across her lips.

 

“He fought to avenge her, no?”

 

“Yes, so his life changed as well,” Kagome said.

 

“Did it? What have I always told you about revenge, Kagome?” her mother asked, taking the dish Kagome had washed.

 

“That…” She thought for a moment, trying to see where this was leading. “That it won't bring back the ones we love,” she said, understanding her mothers' intent. Even though Inuyasha fought for Kikyou, it wouldn't bring her back. And even if she was avenged, Inuyasha would always feel partially responsible for everything that happened. “So… even though Naraku is gone, things haven't changed for him,” she said sadly.

 

The two women worked in silence for a few moments.

 

“And that isn't the only thing that hasn't changed for him,” her mother said, slicing into Kagome's thoughts.

 

She almost asked her mother to repeat herself, but as her brain jump-started itself, Kagome caught on. She waited for her to continue.

 

“You haven't changed either,” her mother said matter-of-factly.

 

“Yes I have,” Kagome protested, careful not to become too cross with her mother.

 

“Are you still in school? Do you still live here?”

 

Kagome thought about it for a second. And realization flew into her mind like a thousand bats returning from a night of feeding to their cave. She hadn't changed. She was living in both times still, because she hadn't wished away the jewel… another thing that hadn't changed. The jewel still existed, and still tempted demons and humans alike, although it was impossible to use for evil now. And they killed those that sought its' power. And when it came down to it, she came back to her own time, and went to school. But soon, she would graduate. What would happen then? She hadn't given it much thought. Would she go to college? And do what? Or would she get a job? Again… what would she do?

 

It was a lot to think about, and Kagome's mind was swirling with questions and possibilities. She remembered her mothers' questions.

 

“Yes,” she said simply.

 

And they finished the dishes in silence. Afterwards, Kagome walked up to her bedroom, finished her homework, and went to sleep clutching white cloth.

 

~~~~~()~~@

 

It had been twenty-six hours, thirty-two minutes, and fifty-six, fifty-seven, fifty-eight, fifty-nine… Twenty-six hours and thirty-three minutes since Kagome had left, according to Sesshoumaru's calculations. He was… restless. Wandering somewhere in his lands, he was looking for something. He had a vague thought that it might be Kagome he was looking for, but he tried to tell himself that he wanted to kill something.

 

He had left Jaken and Rin, much to their consternation, and was now prowling amongst the trees. But as time crept along, it was becoming more and more obvious that he wasn't hunting… he was sulking. He had awoken this morning feeling less than jubilant, and it had gone downhill from there. With a sigh, the youkai turned and leapt towards his retainers.

 

After a recap of what she had done since he had left, Rin left to bathe and catch herself a fish. She wouldn't dare ask her Lord to provide her with food. With Kagome in their group, he had provided for both humans. But with the miko gone, he had no reason to hunt. A tiny pang of jealousy twanged her heart, but she chided herself mentally as soon as she had thought it. She loved Kagome. She was so sweet and kind, and didn't mind hearing her prattle on. As an afterthought, Rin wondered if she would ever marry, her husband hunting and bringing her something to cook…

 

After Rin and Jaken had disappeared, Sesshoumaru sighed for what seemed like the hundredth time that day. Was this what it was like without the woman around? It was so… meaningless. Why did he have all this damned land, anyways?

 

Finding a comfortable tree to lean against, Sesshoumaru sat and closed his eyes in the rays of the setting sun.

 

*****

 

When he awoke, Sesshoumaru found himself riding Ah-Un. When had he mounted the beast? And if he was riding, where were Jaken and Rin? Looking around, Sesshoumaru also found himself fully clothed… wait, something's not right. Bakusaiga was missing! And there was no way he could have gotten his kimono back from Kagome without knowing. This must be another dream.

 

He found himself ordering the two-headed dragon to fire, and he looked down as the burst of flame from one head engulfed something on the ground that he was falling to. He was standing in an instant, the smell of burnt flesh in the air as the hand that was holding a sword in the ground melted away. Ah-Un grunted behind him as he faced his younger brother and his group. He heard Kagome say something, but he couldn't turn his head - his attention was on the katana that was embedded in the earth.

 

“Sesshoumaru!” he heard the hanyou cry out. “Why the hell are you here?”

 

He finally turned and saw Kagome with the kitsune, both looking much younger, as well as an old demon he felt he knew. “That's my line,” he heard himself say. “I came in search of the blade. It seems the Oni you killed still sought revenge, even as steel.”

 

His brother seemed dumbfounded, but he could tell the others in the group were not as dim-witted.

 

“He knows Toukijin was forged from Goshinki's fangs?” the female taijiya said.

 

“That means…” the monk began.

 

“That this Sesshoumaru was the one that commissioned Kaijin-bo to forge this blade? Yes,” Sesshoumaru informed them. He could feel the evil aura pulsing from the sword, aching for the blood of his brother. He had such an evil sword made? For what purpose? He had Tenseiga and Bakusaiga…

 

“But…” he heard Kagome say.

 

“Sesshoumaru, you must not touch Toukijin!” the old youkai yelled from the protection of Inuyasha's back.

 

He may be dreaming, but even now, he could feel the anger at such a foolish statement. After all, he was Sesshoumaru, Lord of the Western Lands!

 

“Even you, if you are touched by Toukijin's evil aura, will be possessed… just like Kaijin-bo!” the old man continued.

 

“Keh,” he said. He sounded remarkably like Inuyasha, and it did not go unnoticed. He grabbed a hold of the evil blades' hilt and pulled it free from the ground.

 

“Just who do you think this Sesshoumaru is?” he asked them, smirking. He felt the aura give way to his tremendous power, and felt righteous in his statement. They shouldn't underestimate his power…

 

He watched the astonished faces of Kagome's friends and wondered what they were thinking. No matter…

 

“Hn. It seems that a sword can pick its' master as well!” he told them. He faced his brother. “Draw, Inuyasha. There's something about you that this Sesshoumaru must confirm…”

 

Confirm? What did he have to confirm? Was this a test? He was testing his brother? For what purpose? He was picking a fight with his brother in front of Kagome and her friends… No wonder they were all so weary of him. The hanyou looked shocked.

 

His heart twisted when he heard Kagome's voice. “Don't, Inuyasha,” she pleaded, trying to hold him back. The hanyou replied by telling her to stay back, and the old codger made a snarky remark.

 

“Keh. Even if I asked him to wait, it's not like he would listen!” Inuyasha yelled to those around him.

 

“Very true,” Sesshoumaru heard himself say. Was he that bad? “Now come.” Yes, he must be that bad. “If you won't, I'll come to you,” he said, charging at full speed towards the hanyou.

 

“Don't worry, Sesshoumaru!” his brother cried as he drew his sword.

 

Tessaiga, his mind supplied. Before his eyes, the small, dull-bladed sword transformed into a magnificent, large, fang-like blade. But something was wrong. It looked like Inuyasha was having trouble wielding it. With a resounding `clang', the two blades met. It had seemed effortless to him, even though… He had only one arm! He was wielding Toukijin easily with his right hand, but he had no left! He thought about the stories Kagome had told him. He had lost his left arm battling Inuyasha. Therefore, if this was indeed another memory, then this took place sometime between the points where he lost his arm and before he regained it. And now, he had goaded Inuyasha into fighting yet again? What was he going to lose this time?

 

The power from Toukijin was barely suppressed by his brothers' sword, and he could tell that all was not right with his Tessaiga.

 

“He still can't fully take a blow!” he heard Kagome say, referring to Inuyasha.

 

Sesshoumaru noticed that whenever she spoke, it was mostly to Inuyasha. She never addressed him.

 

“And he's still not controlling his blade,” the kitsune said from the miko's shoulder.

 

The old demon made some negative comments.

 

The houshi was the next to speak. “Are you saying he has no chance of winning?”

 

“Well,” the youkai explained, “he can't swing Tessaiga. So frustrating… Toukijin is dangerous enough… But to fall into Sesshoumaru's hands? Of all people…”

 

Sesshoumaru looked at his little brother as he stood back, covered in minor wounds from their scuffle. Suddenly, his thoughts were no longer his own.

 

Just as I thought… he felt. He smells only of hanyou. During that battle with Goshinki, his blood did change. As for what that means, I'll just have to see it myself.

 

“Have you changed fighting styles, brother?” he asked the half-demon. “Usually, you charge at this Sesshoumaru swinging your blade around…”

 

“Shut up!” the hanyou cried as he charged.

 

Their swords met again with a clang and hiss of power, effortless for him, but it did not appear to be the case for his brother.

 

“Hn. Has Tessaiga grown a bit heavier?” he asked sarcastically.

 

This seemed to irk the hanyou. “Not just a bit, baka!” he spat, forcing Sesshoumaru away from him with great effort.

 

“Hn,” Sesshoumaru remarked, “such a blade is beyond your strength.” He began rushing towards his brother. Was he attempting to take Tessaiga for himself? “It would be better if you didn't have it at all!” And with a mighty swing, he knocked the great fang from Inuyasha's hand, sending it plunging into the ground a few yards away.

 

The monk cried out, and Kagome called out to the hanyou, with the kitsune adding a smart remark.

 

Inuyasha cursed, and Sesshoumaru was curious to see yet another old demon, this one a tiny flea. He seemed familiar as well…

 

“Hurry up and take a hold of Tessaiga!” the little bug said anxiously.

 

Sesshoumaru watched in horror as Inuyasha only glanced at his sword before telling everyone that he didn't need it. Was his brother crazy? He was armed, and his foolish hanyou brother was going to come at him with no weapon?

 

“No, Inuyasha!” Kagome cried.

 

“You can't go up against Sesshoumaru bare-handed!” the fox kit said.

 

Apparently, Inuyasha's group was much smarter than he.

 

“Inuyasha-sama, you mustn't get desperate!” the flea said from his brothers' shoulder.

 

“I can't win with a sword that heavy,” Inuyasha yelled as he rushed towards him.

 

Sesshoumaru felt himself gathering his power as the hanyou grew nearer. With no way to stop himself, Sesshoumaru barked at his brother: “Know your place, fool!” And with that, he swung Toukijin at Inuyasha, still too far to make contact. But the evil blade glowed, and sent its' power out towards the hanyou it wanted vengeance on. He watched, frozen, as Inuyasha was cut and sliced, throwing him back several yards.

 

“The blade's power alone threw him back?” the woman Kagome had called Sango exclaimed.

 

Feeling unsatisfied, Sesshoumaru felt himself loom over his younger brother. “In the end, a hanyou is a hanyou. Die, Inuyasha,” he said, and Sesshoumaru wished Inuyasha had taken his right arm as well. He began to swing the blade towards his defenseless brother as he heard the monk yell at Inuyasha to run.

 

He was so close… but then, something happened. Sesshoumaru smelled something - sensed something - and it made his blood run cold. Inuyasha throbbed with power suddenly, and it was not the power of a hanyou. The Taiyoukai felt his spine stiffen and his heart thump erratically. He heard Kagome call out to his little brother. It was as if… his very blood had been transformed into youkai blood…

 

And then, a great blast of flame was being hurled at him, and he was engulfed by it, although he remained unharmed. It would take more than a little fire to injure him.

 

“Toutousai!” he screamed, more out of anger of his interrupting than anything. So, was that the old codgers' name?

 

He hadn't seen what happened, but Inuyasha's friends had used the fire to take him and escape, leaving Sesshoumaru alone in the field.

 

Jaken showed up soon afterwards, and began prattling on, as always. He asked his Lord why he hadn't given chase, but Sesshoumaru didn't answer. He had gotten what he wanted. He hadn't been after Tessaiga, really. He had been testing Inuyasha and his blood.

 

The last thing Sesshoumaru remembered thinking was of vengeance. To have made this Sesshoumaru feel even an instant of fear… I won't forget this, Inuyasha!

 

*****

 

Sesshoumaru woke with a start, his heart pounding from the exhilaration of the dream. It was a dream, wasn't it? But it wasn't, since it had actually happened. He would have to ask Kagome when she returned. Kagome…

 

He remembered vividly how frightened she was of him, and how frightened she was for Inuyasha. But she was a strong priestess… why didn't she use her powers? Sesshoumaru shook his head. No, she wouldn't have used her powers against the brother of the man she loved.

 

This brought a whole new question to mind. Did she still love Inuyasha? After what happened… He assumed she had developed feelings for him, but what if he had been wrong? Again, he was sure of Kagome's devotion. No, Kagome isn't the type to lay with someone she doesn't have feelings for. But Inuyasha may try to persuade her.

 

This shone a new light on things, and he could feel his hackles rise in defense. Brother or not, the woman was his now! He would not allow Inuyasha to take her away. Ultimately, it was Kagome's decision to make. But if he knew anything about his little brother, it was that he was stubborn. Yes… Inuyasha will try to force her to stay, and she'll rebel. He laughed a little at his imagination, playing out a scene where Inuyasha tried to lock Kagome in the hut, and she used her powers to knock it down in order to get out. Of course, Kagome wouldn't risk harming her friends' home, but the little daydream lifted his spirits.

 

Now, he just had to get through the next few days…

 

~~~~~()~~@

 

The next two days were almost painful for Kagome. She tried to concentrate on her schoolwork and succeeded most of the time, but sometimes she found herself doodling a name, or drawing crescent moons. By Thursday, however, she was enjoying being back in her era. She helped her mother cook, and the two of them chatted a little. Her friends dropped by, and they gabbed, shopped, and studied.

 

Friday came along, though, and she became erratically excited. After all, she was going to see Sesshoumaru today. She barely caught a word of her classes; she mostly daydreamed of what she should wear or how their greeting would go. She supposed he would be waiting by the well, ready to whisk her away. But… where would they go? It didn't matter, as long as they were together.

 

It didn't go unnoticed by Kagome how quickly she had switched from being in love with Inuyasha, to being obsessed with Sesshoumaru. She wondered if hormones had something to do with it, but she figured it had more to do with the fact that Sesshoumaru was not afraid of his feelings, or letting them be known.

 

When she had first met Inuyasha, it had taken quite some time to realize she loved him. Perhaps now that she knew what love was, what it felt like, and the pain of heartbreak, her heart could recognize love more easily. Maybe that was why she was able to love Sesshoumaru.

 

And now Kagome was running up the stairs, glad that all those years of running from demons gave her the stamina to run up the steep shrine steps. She was sad to leave her family, but she would be back again in only two days. Only two days with Sesshoumaru! It was enough to calm her some.

 

She greeted her mother, who returned the sentiment.

 

“Going back to the Sengoku Jidai?” her mother asked, although it almost sounded like a statement.

 

“Mmm,” Kagome said, nodding.

 

“Ok. Be careful. And please don't rip that uniform too, dear,” her mother said.

 

Kagome blushed. So, she figured it out? She could swear her mother had ESP. “I won't. Thanks, mama. Maybe I'll… Maybe I'll wear something else.”

 

He mother raised an eyebrow at this, but said nothing as her daughter turned away.

 

Kagome climbed the steps to the second floor and made a bee-line for her room, although Souta's door opened as she walked past. He poked his head out. “Nee-chan?”

 

Sighing, Kagome spun. “What?”

 

“Um… Inuyasha didn't come. Not once,” he informed her. “It's been, like, two weeks since he's been here.”

 

Her heart twisted painfully. Inuyasha was the closest thing Souta had to an older brother - sometimes even a father.

 

“I'm sorry, Souta. But I was away for a while, and before that, I was in school…”

 

“I know. I just wish he would come by more often. Are you guys fighting?” he asked innocently.

 

Usually, this was something that would have Kagome furious, sending her brother sprawling across the floor. Never mind the fact that he was almost as tall as her now. But Kagome truly felt bad for this repercussion, and didn't know how to tell him. Whatever she would tell him, now was not the time.

 

“Souta, we're always fighting. He's like my big brother. But no, we're not fighting. We're just not… as dependant on each other as we used to be. He'll come to visit you, I promise. Even if I have to make him,” she soothed, ruffling his hair and winking at the end, making him swat her away.

 

“Stop that,” he said, a scowl on his face.

 

She laughed - if you couldn't pick on your younger sibling, who could you pick on? It had the intended effect, however, of making him leave. In an annoyed huff, he went back to his own room.

 

Now that she was alone, Kagome's thoughts came to her tall, handsome, caring Lord once again. Her mother specifically asker her not to tear her uniform, so she had an excuse to wear something a little… different. Rummaging through her things, Kagome found a few outfits that would switch it up for her. She packed the things she was bringing, and finished her homework.

 

When she finished, she felt as if she was forgetting something. But her mother was calling her for dinner, so she wasn't able to explore the thought. With a shrug, she closed her door and ran down the stairs.

 

The Higurashi family ate dinner, laughing together and telling one another stories of things that had happened during the day. For the first time in a long time, Kagome felt thrilled to get back to the Feudal Era. When had it become a chore? Hadn't she kept the jewel for fear of being trapped out of it? Or maybe it was the fear of being trapped in it…

 

After Kagome had finished helping her mother wash and put away the dishes, she told her family she was leaving. The males - her brother and grandfather - knew this to be an occurrence, and therefore barely gave her a nod of farewell. But her mother, as always, fussed over her and made sure she had the right supplies. When she was satisfied, she gave her daughter a firm hug and went to her own room, leaving Kagome alone in the kitchen to take what she needed.

 

Kagome found the few things she wanted to take back - a few fizzy drinks for Miroku, candy for Shippou, chocolate for Sango, and of course, ramen for Inuyasha. But what about Sesshoumaru? Should she bring him something? Was she supposed to bring him something? Yes… He had asked for something. He had requested… Books! She remembered now! She had been telling him all about her modern life, and he had been interested in her level of schooling. Instead of the usual modern things she brought her friends, Sesshoumaru had asked for literature.

 

Of course Miroku and Sango, and sometimes even Shippou, would glance over her shoulder or even ask to read one of her books occasionally. But Inuyasha, the one that she had felt the closest bond with, had never shown interest. In fact, what did he see in her at all? For whatever reason, Kagome found herself getting angry.

 

Why in the hell did Inuyasha love her? And if he loved her so damn much, why didn't he claim her? Of course, he'd promised things, and laid claim to her plenty of times over the years in numerous, odd and sometimes doubtful ways. But the final step… He hadn't even kissed her! She had thought for sure, after Naraku was gone, he would ask her to marry him. She was young, yes. But it was common to get married at an early age in the Feudal Era, and she had been desperately in love with him.

 

And what did she have to show for standing by his side for three years? Nothing. For months, she was plagued by his frequent visits with Kikyou. And then when she died, she had to be supportive. Then, when she thought that nothing could stand in the way of their relationship, even Naraku, there was nothing. Many months of nothing. Just day in and day out of a double life.

 

So now, Kagome collected a few books from her meager book shelves. One on history, one on anatomy, one on psychology. That would keep him busy. However, she needed the anatomy one for school, so she kept it in mind to make him read it first. She smirked, thinking of his reaction when she told him what to do. Pushing away her thoughts, she packed them in a bag and began to get ready. For the first time since Naraku was vanquished, Kagome was going to dress up for the Feudal Era. But not before she took one last modern-day shower.

 

She had tried to get Inuyasha's attention two years ago, when they had finally defeated their enemy. After that final long battle, she had come home for a few days - a bath was the first modern activity she enjoyed. When she finally went back to the past, she had pinned her hair up, wore a pretty sundress, and applied a little makeup and perfume.

 

When she climbed out of the well, Inuyasha was waiting for her. But when he caught sight and smell of her, he uncouthly told her she smelled bad and she didn't look natural - she looked like an emperor's concubine, he had said. Kagome had been so upset, she went straight back to her own time and spent a week there. He had come for her several times; a few times, he had tried to watch her, unnoticed. But she always knew when he was there, and on the occasions that he showed himself, she had refused to talk to him, even to `sit' him. Finally, he left her alone, and she returned a day later.

 

Of course, she told Kaede and Sango, who in turn, told Miroku. Shippou knew nothing, but whenever something was amiss, he knew the hanyou to be the reason behind it. And so her summer was spent ignoring him, for the most part. Her friends' wedding meant she had to spend the whole day with him, but other than that, she spent the majority of her months off avoiding the half-demon.

 

Once her second year of high school started, she spent her weekdays at home, and visited with her friends on the weekends. She silently decided to forget the incident - the hanyou tried to talk to her about it, but she made it clear with a glare and a cold shoulder that she didn't want to speak about it - and everything went on as usual. Now, when she thought about it, Kagome realized it was partially her fault.

 

Inuyasha is a dog demon - how could she wear all that perfume and not expect him to gag at the smell of her? And she knew Inuyasha was a simple man; to wear makeup was like trying to attract a fly with vinegar. He didn't care what she wore, either. As long as it wasn't traditional miko garb…

 

After basking in the spray of hot water and lathering with a luxurious shower gel, Kagome quickly washed her hair and got out. She didn't want to put too much effort into dressing - look where it got her last time! - but finally decided on a pair of jeans and a pink turtleneck; it was autumn, and it could get quite chilly in the Feudal Era. Shuffling her hair into a simple ponytail, Kagome grabbed her pack and raced downstairs. Everyone else had retired to their rooms, so she simply put her shoes on, ran to the well house, and jumped in. She was surprised Inuyasha hadn't come for her, and she was sure he would be waiting.

 

~~~~~()~~@

 

When Kagome felt her feet touch ground once again, she looked up into the young night air. The stars were bright, and she could hear the sounds of the forest - several crickets; a few birds, late getting back to their nests; the wind through the trees - and knew she was in the past.

 

She heaved herself up as she had done hundreds of times before; climbing, hoisting, pulling. Before long, she was throwing a leg over the rim and pushing her pack to the forest floor. She hadn't anticipated how much harder it would be, climbing up the well with jeans on. They restricted her movement. That's why I wear skirts and dresses, Kagome reassured herself, scowling into the cool night air. She was, however, glad she had worn the warmer garments…

 

Kagome dusted herself off and picked up her pack, grumbling about extra weight in the form of unnecessary textbooks. When she swung herself around to head up the foot-worn path to the village, she saw a vision that stopped her in her tracks:

 

“Sesshoumaru,” she whispered. It was barely audible, but he had heard it, by the widening and shine in his eyes. Did he have any idea how much she missed him?

 

Sesshoumaru had taken the long way around the village to avoid being detected by his brother or Kagome's friends. He wanted to make sure he was the first person she saw. And… he wanted to see her very badly. He had arrived just past noon - Kagome had told him she would arrive in late afternoon or evening. So he had waited. And waited. And waited.

 

When he felt… something, it snapped him out of his thoughts of the most recent dream he had had. He was trying to relive the moment when his past self had vowed revenge on his younger brother simply for making him fear him for a moment. But the feel of magic in the air led his gaze to the well. From his branch high up in a maple tree, Sesshoumaru felt her aura.

 

His pulse quickened, his heart raced, and he felt himself float to the ground to meet her. He could hear her grunting and straining as she pulled herself up from the bottom. He wished to run to her, to jump down, hoist her onto his shoulder, and bring her up. But he couldn't move any further than where he was - at the base of the maple tree he had been sitting in. He watched as she brushed herself off and retrieved her satchel. He was surprised at her clothing: never mind that they were still from her era, but she was barely showing skin! In fact, even her neck was covered! He absently wondered if it had to do with his calling her attire `indecent'. He would ask her. But first…

 

And then, she turned. Her eyes went wide as she saw him standing there, a look of disbelief on her features. She didn't seem happy to see him; she didn't look mad, either. And then, a soft sound escaped her lips, and Sesshoumaru strained to hear his name float on the wind towards him.

 

“Sesshoumaru.”

 

In an instant, he was in front of her and lifting her into a crushing hug. For once, she didn't mind. It only lasted a moment, but he loosened his grip, and then he pulled back to look into her eyes. Her large blue orbs shined like little pools - was it his imagination, or were they more liquid than normal? - as they gazed into his. Because it was dark, yet there was moonlight, Sesshoumaru's normally golden irises were a copper color, and Kagome was mesmerized.

 

Still unsure of her reaction, Sesshoumaru held back. So far, there was no bad reaction. But there hadn't been a good one, either. Was she in shock? Perhaps she thought she was dreaming? Perhaps she thought their time together was a dream?

 

And then Kagome reached up with both hands, grasped Sesshoumaru's face, and kissed him. If he had ever been doubtful of her feelings, those doubts fled with the meeting of plump, pink lips against hard, desperate ones. They sought each other's tongues, exploring the others' mouth as if that alone would convey their feelings. But it wasn't enough for Sesshoumaru. Carefully, he pushed away, placing his hands on her shoulders.

 

Her eyes held question, and he longed to tell her how much he had longed for her, wanted her, needed her. But she interrupted when he opened his mouth to speak.

 

“Kami, Sesshoumaru… I missed you so much…” A single tear rolled down her cheek.

 

He stared, gaping like a fish out of water.

 

She smiled an embarrassed smile and wiped at her face. “I mean, I know it's only been a few days… It's silly. But…” She was silenced when he harshly grabbed her arm and turned her to face him.

 

“Never,” he growled, “call this silly.” He brushed a few stray strands from her face, and she smiled up at him. “You have no idea, miko, how much this Sesshoumaru has missed you…”

 

Kagome looked up at him in alarm, but he didn't seem to notice. This Sesshoumaru? Was he becoming his old self? Was he already his old self? Did he regain his memories? In the time they had spent together, his speech was rougher, and he had dropped the third-person way of speaking of himself. But, just now…

 

He seemed captivated, playing with her hair as the moonlight turned it shades of blue and purple. He hadn't taken notice of the change in speech. Was it really something she should be worried over? He looked like himself - well, the himself she had left behind, not the old himself. Mentally shrugging her shoulders in defeat, Kagome decided to drop it until something else came up.

 

Sesshoumaru came out of the trance he had been in and noticed the slightest trace of worry leaving Kagome's beautiful face. He was going to ask her, but she interrupted.

 

“Thank you,” she said, beaming at him.

 

He was surprised, but smiled wholeheartedly. “Whatever for?”

 

“For coming here to see me. And… being you.”

 

This struck Sesshoumaru rather hard. For being him? It was then that he realized: the Sesshoumaru that Kagome loved was not the same Sesshoumaru she knew. How could she thank him for being him when he clearly wasn't himself? Or was he? And was Kagome constantly in fear of his former self? His memories clearly told him that she had been afraid of him, even hateful at times. But now, she clung tightly to his form and looked deep into his eyes… Was she always wondering if the Old Sesshoumaru was going to come back and harm her? He balked at the idea. Still…

 

Confused and hurt, Sesshoumaru pulled away. With extreme bewilderment and suspicion in her eyes, Kagome stepped towards him.

 

“Sesshoumaru?” she asked, an eyebrow raised in her perplexing state.

 

He took a few more steps backwards. Sesshoumaru couldn't bear the thought of harming the one person he cared most about. In all honesty, he didn't think he was capable of hurting her. But he couldn't take the chance. If she was worried, then it could happen. If he had to hurt himself by being apart from her, he would do it.

 

Tears began to fall from Kagome's eyes, and Sesshoumaru began to turn away. She tried to grasp for him, but there was nothing to hold on to, since she still had his kimono in her bag. She attained purchase of his hakama by luck and held fast. He turned on her, anger radiating from his features. If there was anything learned from his dreams, it was how to be an evil, malevolent force.

 

“Let go,” he seethed, attempting to get away from the one person he wished to protect.

 

Kagome was too upset to be angry. “Why? What did I do wrong? I'm sorry…” she sobbed, dropping to her knees but holding fast.

 

She chanced a look at his face, and she saw the look - remorse - before he attempted his old façade. But it was not the same - this Sesshoumaru could not completely hide his feelings behind a glacier of uncaring as the old Sesshoumaru could. Even the Sesshoumaru from two years ago - the one that saved her inside Naraku - had started to melt the icy demeanor. Never again would Sesshoumaru be able to mask his feelings as when he was filled with hate, anger, and resentment.

 

That one look gave Kagome the information she needed: he was acting out for another reason. Were they being watched? Was Inuyasha around?

 

“Sesshoumaru… talk to me. What's going on?”

 

He wasn't going to tell her. There was no way he would.

 

Now, she was getting angry. Her powers flared, begging to be used. She allowed a little of her purification to flow into her fingers. He felt the tingling sensation as her pure light crept closer to him.

 

Was she serious? Harm to his person did not frighten him… He became more determined. He would leave, and not return until he was sure his old self would not surface to harm her. He began to turn…

 

And then he felt the searing pain from Kagome's power on his arm. He roared as his flesh burnt, but his attempt to remove her hand only resulted in another burned limb.

 

When she felt it was enough, Kagome pulled her power back into her and waited for a reaction. The old Sesshoumaru would have sliced her head off neatly, or plunged a hand into her chest, removing her heart. Perhaps even turned into his dog form and simply eaten her whole.

 

Gasping from lack of oxygen and shock, Sesshoumaru glanced down at the little miko. She was… grinning! Was this a game? Was she trying to make him hurt her? What was she trying to prove? With a growl, Sesshoumaru turned away, ready to leap away.

 

Kagome was sure now. He was trying to save her… from himself. He truly did love her, but he was afraid of his former self. What had brought this on? He was so confident a few days ago… Can't leave him alone for five days… Kagome thought, rolling her eyes.

 

As he turned, she grabbed him again. He whirled to remove her but she anticipated his move and grabbed his chest. It was enough to startle him long enough to do what she intended. She smiled up at him, effectively distracting him. As he tried to ponder her motive, Kagome closed her eyes and concentrated and released…

 

Suddenly, Sesshoumaru found himself warm and pain-free. He watched as his raw, blistered, bloody flesh repaired before his very eyes. What he wasn't watching was Kagome, who put her entire being into healing him. When there was no more to heal, Kagome dropped.

 

Sesshoumaru quickly caught her. His heart raced as he fretted over her condition. She wasn't unconscious, but she was similar to delirious… She mumbled to herself and was hot to touch. He placed her on the cool grass, and collapsed over her.

 

“Kagome… Kagome… please. Talk to me…”

 

She opened her eyes and tried to focus. “Why… wouldn't you… talk to me?”

 

He looked up. “I'm sorry, Kagome. I was just…” He paused, unable to continue. What was he thinking? Why should he fear his former self? Even if he regained his memories, would it make him ruthless once again? No… he would remember the old times, and the new times. And he would make a new life out of them both.

 

“Sesshoumaru, the only way to save me… is by being with me. Because… I'd die without you…”

 

And then her mind gave out, and she was pulled into darkness as Sesshoumaru guarded her.