InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ This Sesshoumaru Needs Not A Mate - ON HOLD ❯ PART NINETEEN ( Chapter 19 )

DISCLAIMER - The ownership and general brilliance that is the original Feudal Fairy Tale remains the property of its honored and rightfully revered creator Rumiko Takahashi without whose brilliance, we would not have fodder.

Edited by: Meara

Mature: Sexual content, you have been warned.

Reviews are fuel.

EP


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Japanese Terms/Phrases Used In Part Nineteen

“A” “Un” - At the end of the 12th century, the Japanese style lion dogs were popular votives. The pairing of the "A" and "Un" types, the former with its mouth open and the latter with it mouth closed. ("A" is the first letter in the Japanese syllabary and "Un" is last. The combination of the two symbolically encompasses the universe, from a spiritual perspective. Neither of these bears a horn on its head, as did lions of the Nara Period. In fact, horned lions (lion-dogs) were rare in the Kamakura Period. The "A" lion's ears are turned downwards while the "Un" lion's are raised. They ideally must face the worshipper or the challis they protect, each with the leg closest to the worshipper drawn back and the other leg forward. Though their heads are small, these dogs' upper-bodies are large in comparison to their slender legs, giving an appearance of agility.

Acalanatha - Fudo Myo-o - In Japanese mythology the fierce form of the Buddha, almost demonic in appearance. He is the representation of divinity, one that came to heightened prominence in Shingon practice, the fierce Myo-o (Vidyaraja), or Kings of Bright Wisdom. These manifestations, perhaps best typified by Fudo Myo-o (Acalanatha), are terrifying and uncompromising guides for the believer in the journey to enlightenment.

kusari-gama - chain-sickle

 

Part Nineteen - This Sesshoumaru Needs Not A Mate

Sesshoumaru stood transfixed in the dim glow of the cavern, having read the short missive that was the Goshinboku Scroll. `Was this possible?' thought the Western Lord.

The Guji had managed, successfully, to pre-occupy his younger sibling with the Tachi Sword, which had been handed down the Higurashi line from the Momoyama Period. It's original creator, Umetada Myoju, a direct descendant of his daughter-in-law.

Inuyasha held it reverently, to the Priest's surprise, paying attention to its slightly anomalous shape. The hanyou looked towards Sesshoumaru and the parchment with mild curiosity, then turned back to the Guji with an unprecedented question.

“I guess it was made in the transition period, then? I mean it is kinda thick when you look at it flat. It ain't of the osuriage type. Fuckin' gorgeous! I bet he knew TÅtÅsai, cause the style is similar to that of both Tenseiga and Tessaiga,” said the Hanyou proudly, pleased to have garnered the attention of both males.

The mention of Tenseiga caught the Taiyoukai unaware and he looked in the direction of his brother with surprise, Inuyasha was staring back at him querulously. “Look at this Sesshoumaru. What a fantastic blade, and it sits here unused.”

“For good reason, Inuyasha-sama,” chuckled the Shinto Priest.

“Observe the engravings on both sides.”

Sesshoumaru spoke then, just behind Inuyasha's shoulder. “It depicts two relief carvings. On one side that of Fudomyo'o in a shrine, and on the other a fully transformed dog-demon. Inuyasha is correct. Its very design defies the later aesthetic preference for shorter blades.”

Inuyasha turned the blade over in his hand, receiving a mild cut that burned. “Shit,” whispered the Hanyou, finding his hand suddenly in the vice like grip of his brother.

Sesshoumaru quickly stowed the rolled scroll in the waist band of the peculiar hakama he wore.

“Oi! Asshole! What are you doing?” said Inuyasha, somewhat frightened by the intense expression on his brother's face. He took the open blade from his palm, seemingly waiting, while not relinquishing his firm grip of the hanyou's wrist.

The Priest smiled and hurriedly retrieve the ink-stone bowl on the shelving and placed it under Inuyasha's now dripping palm, before returning the bowl to its original position between two protective deities carved of paulownia and cypress wood.

“That shit is still sharp,” said Inuyasha, feigning indifference to the burning sensation that continued, despite the fact that he was already healing. He noted his brother intentionally cut himself similarly, and squeezed his own palm over the bowl moments before the Guji rested it once more on the black linen votive between the demons.

“Not now, Inuyasha!” hissed the Western Lord as he released his grip.

“You just had to do the same thing, didn't ya? What the fuck are you trying to prove, Lord Pantyhose?” snorted the Hanyou, feeling somewhat uneasy since Sesshoumaru selected not to respond.

Sesshoumaru watched the Guji with rapt attention, still holding the hilt of the Tachi sword.

The Priest looked to Sesshoumaru first and bowed, “Thank you. Now, to complete the ritual,” said the shrine Priest quietly. The bowl held enough of the life giving dark liquid to radiate a purplish glow in the darkness that cast eerie silhouettes upon the 12th century dog-lion deities A and Un.

Not one to endure long unedifying silences, Inuyasha sighed loudly and sucked his teeth, garnering the Taiyoukai's displeasure.

“Be quiet, Inuyasha. There are times for silence. Honor your bloodline as Taishou and observe the formalities. All our lives depend on it,” said Sesshoumaru in whispered menace.

Inuyasha balked at the comment, but equally, pride filled his heart at his brother's acknowledgement of his lineage, however backhanded.

“What's he doin' then, since you get this shit?” said the Hanyou petulantly, watching the priest though his bangs.

Sesshoumaru growled quietly in frustration. Then ,looking down at his younger sibling, the Western Lord began to explain.

“The two dog-lion demons are A and Un, they symbolize the universe and they are protective deities. I suspect they came from our Chi-chi. They are not in our treasury now, but we have scrolls that describe them. Note that one has ears similar to yours. The sword, I hold, will be Satori's. The Higurashi have kept it for her eventual coming, these many centuries. The first etched design at its base is the first Higurashi of the shrine, from the maternal side of the clan. He is known as the `Father of Shinto;' the father of the modern sword. So, Inuyasha, it is more likely than not, Totosai was his pupil. He is called Umetada Myoju. Like our respective katana, it is one of a kind and has great spiritual powers. It is inscribed with a protective spell, so it could not be wielded, much less held, by anyone outside the correct familial line,” said Sesshoumaru.

Balancing the elegant blade on one large callused palm, the Western Lord appraised the rare find, wondering what other ancient treasure the reliquary held. Inuyasha took it from Sesshoumaru, and observed the inscriptions above the dog-demon's etching. He then smirked, showing it to Sesshoumaru who quirked a brow.

“I disapprove of giving it to others,” read the Taiyoukai. “A curious choice of words indeed, Inuyasha,” agreed the Western Lord.

Looking at the Guji's back as he worked quietly and efficiently preparing the arrows tip with ancient tools, Sesshoumaru marveled at how well those ancient eyes worked in the dimness that was this mystical place, so unimpressive in its exterior.

“What the fuck?” whispered the Hanyou. He noted the Guji was slowly being enveloped in a shroud of purple mist rising from the bowl. Instinctively, Inuyasha made to reach for the Guji, to pull him away to safety, but was stopped by Sesshoumaru with a firm, almost painful grip.

“Wait,” whispered the Taiyoukai.

“Bring the scroll, Lord Sesshomaru,” said the Guji in an authoritative voice, unlike the usual cracked, aged tone used in his day-to-day speech. The Taiyoukai could do nothing else but move towards the dais with the parchment at the priest's commanding tone.

What happened next would always remain emblazoned in Sesshoumaru's and Inuyasha's memory.

The ancient parchment, as though having a mind of its own, slid from the inuyoukai Lord's extended palm, and floated above the bowl. Within seconds transforming into a swirling purple mist reminiscent of a transparent iridescent dragon, before diving into the hallowed container's liquid contents, illuminating its surrounding in an eerie, mauve light. For the briefest moment, the shelving above the bowl revealed an ancient saya, of questionable origins, that pulsed with an otherworldly glow of deepest crimson before the dimness returned to the cavernous room.

“It is done,” said the Guji. He turned to both Taishou males with a, seemingly, non-descript arrow whose tip still glowed, having absorbed the bowl's liquid contents.

What the Western Lord did not speak of was the amulet he wore depicting the sacred dragon. Upon the scroll's transformation, the Taiyoukai had been severely burned in the spot where it lay on his chest. The pain did not worry the Inuyoukai. He knew he would heal.

This too had been part of the unspoken ritual.

The doors to the reliquary flew open then, revealing the sunlight of the afternoon, and a rather beautiful, pleased young woman with a victorious smile rushed in.

“I did it Sesshoumaru!” squealed the Priestess, as she flew into her Taiyoukai's arms.

sks

The swirling mist hid well its secret atop the mountainside. Naraku stood calmly, looking through the open shoji. His handsome, sharp, pale features were in stark contrast to the onyx locks that flowed over his shoulders and down his white linen yukata.

“Kan'na, get Kagura,” hissed Naraku, sibilantly.

Bowing, the fragile, childlike being, retreated. Only Kohaku remained on guard at the fusuma, on bended knee. His own head bowed, his kusari-gama at the ready, awaiting Naraku's orders.

A sudden gust of wind announced the wind goddess' entrance into the main hall. She was less than pleased at the manner of her summons.

Naraku knew from the night before, he would have to set in motion his alternate plan. His current weakened state was the outcome of events the night before when Kan'na's mirror cracked. The Western Lord's ridiculous alliance with the Inu-Tachi having netted more fruitful results than the half-demon had anticipated.

“Naraku? How dare you summon me in this manner?!” hissed Kagura, looking over her shoulder at the boy nearly prostrate at the fusuma. His presence, suddenly taking some of the steam out of her indignation…Naraku was up to something.

“Kagura, do be careful. You are on the verge of overstepping your place,” retorted the hanyou with a menacing smile.

“How is it, you were unable to prevent Inuyasha from entering the well?” continued the half-demon in a quiet tone.

Kagura, began to pace with rage, unsure what her next move should be. Taking the hanyou by the horns, she answered semi-truthfully.

“As I told you earlier, I was forestalled by Kikyou. Naraku, how many times must I say this?” said Kagura diffidently, suddenly fearful that the hanyou had understood her intent.

“Is that so? Kohaku saw no such intervention. Did I not mention, Kagura, he followed you?” he said sibilantly, his blood red eyes suddenly focused intently on her features.

Kagura recognized the danger in the moment. `Think fast Kagura,' thought the Wind Demoness. She sighed then, tucking her kimono nervously, Kan'na's sudden reappearance by her side, startling her.

“I am waiting Kagura. You are this close to being re-absorbed,” drawled the Hanyou.

“By your leave, Naraku, I thought of an alternate plan, that will garner you not only the remaining shards, but equally finally give you dominion over the annoying Western Lord.”

“Yeeeeeeeeeeeees, Kagura? Do tell. Your life… hangs in the balance.”

The wind demoness had gotten her needed reprieve.

sks

“Miroku? Do you think that Rin is really okay now?” said Shippou. His large green eyes looked worriedly up at the Priest, who had been somewhat pre-occupied all day.

“I'm not entirely sure Shippou. When did Inuyasha say he would be back?” said the Priest, as he stood with the help of his staff. The previous night's events still wore on his mind and body. Miroku's, usually amused, violet eyes were dim with fatigue and worry.

“One never knows with the idiot,” said the fox demon dismissively, as his sight focused further down the hill, where Rin and Ah-Un sat by the stream.

Rin was resting against the dragon's side as she efficiently wove stems of wild flowers into a chain, humming softly to herself. The Western Lord's ward was pre-occupied with making a matching garland for Un's head, so he would not feel left out. Since, of course, Ah's was particularly decorative - or so she thought.

“Shippou, I think you should give Inuyasha a break. He does mean well,” chuckled the Priest, who now looked for the toad, who had insisted on this outing for the young. He finally saw him, just beyond the stream, his staff of two heads firmly planted in the ground, as he watched over his Master's ward.

The fox-demon gave the standing Priest a sidelong look and sighed.

“If wishes were horses, Miroku, all beggars would ride,” said Shippou, as he dipped the wand into the magical liquid Kagome had given him. He then pursed his little lips and blew through the circle making more bubbles that traveled on the wind.

“What?” said the Monk distractedly, suddenly catching sight of a familiar form coming towards them in the skies above, `Sango has finally returned.'

“Nothing. Just something Mama says sometimes. It means don't hold your breath. Inuyasha may mean well, but he always manages to mess things up. He has no edit mode when it comes to Sesshoumaru-sama,” said Shippou, as his eyes followed the dancing bubbles.

Miroku looked down at the kitsune with a knowing smile. He righted his robes, standing erect of posture, so as to cut a dashing figure to the dark clad female figure who sat astride Kirara.

The neko purred softly in acknowledgment of the figures in the meadow.

“Yes Kirara, I see them. I don't see Inuyasha though,” said Sango, noticing Miroku's stance, her stomach fluttering, as even from this distance. She felt the warmth of his presence and imagined his amethyst eyes smiling with her, causing her to blush.

“Kirara, what am I going to do about him? He doesn't take me seriously. Maybe we can be friends and then it won't bother me anymore when he ogles other women. How do I do that though?” The neko-youkai purred companionably in answer.

“I cannot keep exacting violence on him…can I? I mean, it isn't right. Maybe I can accept him for what he is?” thought the demon-slayer sadly, as she felt the prickle of tears and a lump in her throat. She had wanted more from him, but that would prove impossible.

`She is so beautiful. She is strong, intelligent. What more could I want?' thought the Monk, suddenly remembering their last encounter with shame.

“Houshi-sama! Look! It is Kirara and Sango!” said a small female voice from below. Rin jumped and clapped her hands in joy. Her other favorite playmate had finally return after several days absence.

“Rin, do stop making noise, you infernal little nuisance. My head still hurts!” chided the kappa, turning to watch Kirara's descent nervously. Ah merely snorted, Un's eyes remained closed tiredly.

Shippou was the first to run to Sango, who lifted him affectionately, adjusting her Hiraikotsu to better hold him.

“Hi Shippou,” the exterminator said with a genuine smile, while avoiding the priest's eyes.

Shippou looked from one to the other, and sighed.

“Miroku, apologize to Sango, so we can get back to normal,” said the little kit matter-of-factly.

Sometimes the taijya wondered just how old Shippou truly was? He had a way of always coming to the crux of things in a matter of seconds.

“That won't be necessary, Shippou. The Monk, will continue to be the Monk, and I must accept this. Where is Inuyasha?” said Sango dispassionately, furtively looking over the red head's pony-tail at Miroku's surprised, tired expression.

“He is with Lord Sesshoumaru and Kagome on the other side of the Bone-Eater's Well. He should be returning shortly. Why? Where have you been Sango, my love?” said Miroku carefully, recognizing that Sango was making an attempt at business-like diplomacy.

The last word caught the Taijya off guard, as she took a tentative breath before answering his questions.

“I returned to my village, as I told Kagome-chan I would. More important than my discovery, though, is the fact that Naraku's SaimyÅshÅ followed me there and even now, I suspect Kagura…and…and… Kohaku are not far behind. The village, as you know, was decimated. However, I believe I have discovered an additional use for the Hiraikotsu with respect to Naraku. Kagome did mention we all represent an aspect of the jewel, and I may well have found proof of this.”

The sudden terrified squeal of Jaken caused both ningen to look in his direction.

“The hell bees! We must return to the safety of the shiro!” squawked the kappa, who grabbed Rin. She simply stood gawking at the horde of bees still some distance away, accompanied by the Wind Sorceress, and Kohaku on foot.

“Take Shippou and go, Sango! I will remain,” said Miroku, who took up a defensive stance. `Though this might prove my end, I will stand against that evil bastard's minions,' thought the Houshi, as he uncovered his palm, prepared for battle.

“Miroku! You get yourself killed, and I will make you sorry. Let's go now! There is a time for false bravado, and a time to flee. We are not yet ready for battle.”

Her tone caused the Priest to look into Sango's face. Her expression brooked no argument as she hefted Shippou onto Kirara's back and joined him, carefully watching as Rin helped the Kappa onto Ah-Un's back. The dragon then took to the skies towards the Western Shiro a short distance away.

“Run you fools,” whispered Kagura, a predatory smile gracing her lips as she looked down at the male running in stride. “Kohaku, what do you think of your brave sister now?”

The bland, thoroughly vacant, expression looking back up at her did nothing to fool the Wind Sorceress, unlike Naraku, she knew Kohaku was regaining his memory.

sks

The Higurashi clan was hungry, so a light repast of miso broth with delicate homemade noodles, fresh fruit, and tea was served, on the kitchen's island.

Needless to say, ramen was served to Inuyasha, who inhaled his treat with relish and attendant sound effects, to the thorough disgust and general consternation of the Western Lord. He had showered and dressed and ate peacefully and methodically, as always.

Kagome chattered amiably with Inuyasha, while carefully observing the quiet reticence of her Mate.

“The new bow is amazing. Mom insists it is four times the weight of the old, but I don't feel it, and my accuracy has gone up one hundred percent! We must have shot at least thirty arrows. Only once did I miss and that had more to do with the rabbit that caught my attention,” said Kagome pleasantly to the Hanyou.

“Nice one Gome!” said Inuyasha around a mouthful of ramen. It was obvious to the hanyou his best friend was happy, despite the circumstances. He wanted desperately to have a private moment with her, perhaps after lunch.

“Sooooo, who is going to be the one to tell me what you boys were doing in there?” said Kagome, giving her Mate a meaningful look. He feigned pre-occupation with the segmenting of a pear.

The Guji, who had been quietly sipping his tea, chose to speak then, giving the Western Lord a look with one quirked brow.

“I required a small amount of blood from both Taishou pups to complete the arrow's tip. Nothing more, Kagome,” he said as the cup once more was brought to his face.

Kagome's face grimaced slightly. She noted Inuyasha stopped chewing looking furtively under his bangs at Sesshoumaru, then at the guji who sat to his right, before swallowing.

“Yeah… nothing to it. It did sting like a bitch, though. The tachi katana that is,” said Inuyasha, indifferently.

“The Tachi Sword? What sword? How come I have never heard of this?” said Kagome, feeling left out once more. Looking to her grandfather, her deep brown eyes fixed him with a glare.

The rich, deep, baritone of her Mate interjected then.

“It is our daughter's future katana Kagome, there was no need for it to be mentioned before this,” said the Taiyoukai. He folded his napkin, placing it equidistant to his bowl and utensils.

Looking from one member of her family to another, the Miko pursed her lips. Folding her napkin similarly to that of the Taiyoukai, began to clear silently, practically ripping the chopsticks out of Inuyasha's hand, effectively displacing the last of the noodles which fell back into the bowl.

Inuyasha's ears flattened to his head instantly, recognizing a coming fight. Mrs. Higurashi smiled down at him reassuringly and quietly ushered the males out of the kitchen. Sesshoumaru, of course, was the last to leave. Looking at his Mate's back, which was ramrod straight, as she stood at the sink. Her chin was slightly elevated, her features hard.

The sound of water filling the sink brought the Western Lord out of his reverie, and the firm grip of his younger sibling, pulling him.

“Sesshoumaru, come to the porch with me,” said Inuyasha, in a whispered tone, eyeing the Miko with trepidation. She was going to blow any second, and he needed to get Icicle Prince out of the firing line.

The immediate urge was to shrug off the hand on his arm, but the Hanyou's pleading expression caused him to rethink. Sesshoumaru observed Aiko-sama, who stood behind her daughter with her hands folded, her head slightly bowed, waiting….'But for what?' mused the Taiyoukai, as he swiftly turned and followed his brother and the Guji.

Turning off the taps, Kagome began to wrap her fingers on the counter, looking through the window at the well-house.

“Oka-saan? Why is it, I know nothing of my family's history? Who we are in the grand scheme of things?” said the Miko with deceptive quietude in her voice.

“Kagome, that is not true. You do know. As much as I can safely tell you,” said her mother equally as quietly, reaching to touch a tendril of hair that had escaped her daughter's ponytail. Kagome shrugged the hand away, and turned to face her mother. Her expressive eyes were filled with hurt, tears streaming down her face.

“Yeah…you keep saying that, as if it will help. How am I to go to war, against a foe I could well lose to?” said the Priestess in a clipped tone.

Mrs. Higurashi's eyed her daughter, then pointed to one of the vacant stools around the island.

Kagome refused to move from the sink's protective firmness at her back. It was tangible, safe and without it she was sure she would find herself in the fetal position on the floor, a blubbering mess.

“Do you believe this easier for me, Kagome? I assure you, it isn't,” said her mother atonally, as she made the first move to sit. The delicate, trembling fingers of one hand passed through her short styled strands distractedly.

“Mommy, I am not blaming you,” said the Priestess softly, coming to sit beside her mother. “I just need to understand,” said the miko, her anger draining away to be replaced by a sudden need to comfort her mother.

“If I could change the next few days in your life, Kagome, I would, but I cannot. In reality, you will quickly come to find a lack of concrete knowledge will prove a benefit. Trust in my love. Trust in being a noble descendent of the Higurashi. Trust in your tachi and above all, trust in the Inuyoukai who is the Lord of your heart, soul and body. The child you now carry is more than you will need in your immediate defense.”

The Priestess looked at her mother quizzically, as she gently stroked her hair to comfort.

Kagome smiled, and looked down at her own midsection, feeling the presence of the Western Lord at the kitchen door.

“I'm coming, Sesshoumaru. Mommy and I merely needed to do a bit of girl-talk,” said Kagome, softly.

Mrs. Higurashi hurriedly dried her own eyes, before turning to look at the handsome, tall male in the doorway. His usual stoic expression firmly in place, he looked from one female to the other, attempting to better understand the dynamic between both women.

“Kagome, he does look rather nice, doesn't he? He wears modern clothing well, yes?” said Mrs. Higurashi brightly, appraising how well the jeans fit, along with the dark maroon linen shirt that accentuated his pallor and well built shoulders.

The leer Kagome gave the Western Lord was enough to set most normal males to blushing. “That he does mother…THAT he does,” said the Miko, smiling over her mother's head at her Mate with a suggestive quirk of her right brow. Her eyes glided over his long, lean well muscled legs; stopping suggestively at his crotch, before finally looking up into his eyes for added effect.

Sesshoumaru merely raised one, elegantly tapered brow indignantly, before beating a hasty retreat. Ruru wasn't completely inured to the Miko's appraisal, or spike in scent.

Peels of feminine laughter followed the Taiyoukai's back, as he headed for the relative safety of the hallway and walked quickly through the open door. Sesshoumaru blushed, ever thankful that it had been out of the sight of his bitch.

`The animosity the Miko felt has dissipated. She is quite mercurial,' he noted with amusement. Opening the door leading to the porch, Sesshoumaru found Inuyasha seated in `his spot' once more.

Without turning Inuyasha spoke, “Feel better now?” said the Hanyou watching Buyo peacefully curled into a tubby ball under the Goshiboku Tree.

“Get use to it. Kagome will always run hot and cold. It will probably get worse the further along she is. So my advice, dear brother? Gird your loins,” snickered, the Hanyou.

“Hn,” intoned the Taiyoukai, coming to sit in Kagome's spot beside his sibling.

A pleasing silence followed as both Taishou males sat. The only sound, the musical chimes in the Tree of Ages, and the flutter of silken carp waving in the wind.

Inuyasha looked at his brother under his bangs, his arms folded within his sleeves, a half smile playing about his lips.

“Do you realize, this is the first time, we have ever sat together without arguing?” said the Hanyou in his own deep register.

Sesshoumaru gave his younger sibling a sidelong glance, before returning his gaze to the well-house.

“Hn.”

“So what is with the get up?” said Inuyasha pointedly, looking at the pair of jeans that seemed tailor made for his older brother.

“My usual attire is being laundered by Aiko-sama,” the Taiyoukai said, indifferently.

“So you aren't wearing those to impress Kag's or anything?” chuckled, the Hanyou.

“Ridiculous!” said the Taiyoukai, flashing his hair over his broad shoulders.

“Sesshoumaru, it's okay for you to admit you want to look hot for your Mate. Fuck, you need to lighten-up.”

“I have had no complaints, Inuyasha,” said the Western Lord smugly, in an attempt to discourage the unwanted intimacy.

Inuyasha looked at the handsome, chiseled profile that was his brother, brows furrowed in thought. His large, amber eyes vaguely amused, he thought how best to broach his next question without incurring his elder sibling's wrath.

“Sesshoumaru, can I ask you something?” said the Hanyou evenly.

An almost imperceptible inclination of the Western Lord's head was the only response.

“Okay, let me say this. Kagome loves you. I resented this at first, you being such a frigid asshole and all, but it is kinda obvious you make her happy, as I could never have and I completely respect that. My only question is… do you love her?” said Inuyasha, awaiting the outburst that never came.

A seeming eternity passed as the Taiyoukai's lower jaw worked, his lips assuming their usual angry line.

The Taiyoukai was saved from a responding to the rather personal question by the opening of the front door. Both Inuyasha and the Western Lord knew the Miko had stood listening to their conversation behind the discretionary safety of the closed front door. Equally, Sesshoumaru knew, she had chosen that exact moment to make her appearance, in order to allow him to save face.

“Well, well, well… will wonders never cease,” said the Miko with a happy smile, looking down at the back of both flaxen heads in the dimming light of late afternoon.

“Whatever, Kagome,” snorted the Hanyou, getting up and wondering over to get a little teasing time in with Buyo. Intense emotions always made him edgy.

“Inuyasha, you touch Buyo, and I will rip you a new one,” said Kagome with her arms akimbo, standing by her Mate's side. “If you want something useful to do with your time, please go fetch Souta,” said Kagome, waving a baseball cap in his general direction.

Sesshoumaru turned to look at his Mate's hand with the peculiar looking hat.

“Mom is busy in the kitchen and dinner proper will be ready in an hour or so, and she wants him home.”

“Damn good thing too. Way too much rabbit food, I'm still hungry,” said the Hanyou indignantly, returning to swipe the hat from her hand and begrudgingly placing it on his head, being mindful to cover his ears totally.

Sesshoumaru stood then, stepping down the last two remaining stairs to face his brother. He unceremoniously removing the cap from his brother's head, before turning to face the Miko with a bland expression.

“You both have much to discuss. I will retrieve the pup,” said the Taiyoukai.

Kagome smiled softly, “Do you know where to find him, my Lord? Perhaps Inuyasha should go with you, purely for directional purposes,” she said hurriedly, as her mating mark began to throb slightly.

The indignant expression on her Lord's face almost made Kagome laugh. Resisting this urge, she assumed an equally stony expression, raising her brows.

His own mark began to itch, `The bitch learns quickly,' noted the Taiyoukai with pride, meeting her stony gaze with his own. Daring her to up the ante and continue to defy his will.

“Feh! At this rate, I will starve to death. Sesshoumaru, give me the cap. I will get the runt. You two need to stop this line in the sand shit you do so often,” said Inuyasha tiredly as he reached for the cap, which the elder Taishou male held aloft and continued to stare at his beloved Mate.

“Yes Inuyasha, they both can be rather juvenile can't they?” said the Shrine Priest clucking his tongue.

“You would think they would reserve this strength of wills for more useful pursuits.”

Inuyasha smiled, for the second time that day, chuckling softly with the Guji, shrugging his shoulders. “Yeah, old man. Life's a bitch that way. It never gives you what you expect, but you deal.”

Sesshoumaru felt the fool then, realizing they were both right, lowering his arm, he placed the cap once more on his siblings head forcefully.

“The answer, Inuyasha, is… yes.”

Then turned and walked towards the teahouse without a backward glance.

The Guji watched the tall retreating figure, then looked to his granddaughter, whose gaze was focused on her Mate's back. Biting her lower lip, she tentatively stepped down the stairs, smiled apologetically at Inuyasha, and her Gramps. Then bracing herself, she headed in the Taiyoukai's direction.

“Wanna join me, old man?” said Inuyasha, holding out an elbow for the elder to take.

“Why not. Haven't anything better to do, and who exactly are you calling old? You obstreperous, little pup? Mind your manners.” said the Priest. He pushed the pro-offered elbow away and firmly planted his stick in the earth with each step he took towards the stairs that lead to the street below. Inuyasha followed a few steps behind, giving one final look in the direction of the two beings who stood facing each other in silence. It might have been his imagination, but their silhouettes seemed distorted in the dimming light of the afternoon. It was as if, there was a protective barrier of violet light shielding them both. The longer he looked the more intense the light grew, more so around Kagome, while around Sesshoumaru the light took on a darker appearance, flecked with red hues.

“You are not imagining it, Inuyasha-sama,” said the Guji, looking up at Inuyasha pleasantly. “Come on. These old bones need to rest soon. Let us go, while I still have the strength to manage these stairs today.”

“So are you going to explain?” Inuyasha said with a faint smile as he adjusted his stride to match that of the shrine priest.

“Inuyasha-sama, you are able to see what is really there. This will prove useful. Each of us carries the light; some more than others.”

“How come I never saw it before?”

“You weren't ready, but now you are.”

Inuyasha scratched the back of his head, glancing down at the Priest, he asked, “Do I have an aura like that? I mean like Sesshoumaru's?”

“Yours is similar, yes. A deep red, like the robes chosen for you at birth. Nothing, Inuyasha-sama, is co-incidence.”

The firm expression on the Guji's face told Inuyasha there would be no more answers forthcoming, as they hit the final stair to the street.

sks

“Sesshoumaru, I apologize,” said the Miko, looking up into citrine eyes, smiling softly.

“No Miko. This Sesshoumaru stands corrected. You were merely attempting to give Inuyasha and I an opportunity to co-operate,” said the Taiyoukai, raising one elegant clawed digit to the Miko's soft warm lips, effectively silencing her, before lowering his own to hers, sealing the unprecedented apology.

The softness of his touch caused the Miko's eyes to close, her stomach flipping, as he pulled her to him gently deepening the kiss. Her lips parted and her small tongue sought to explore his delicious depths, the faint taste of pear still on his succulent lips. Unlike their usual battle of tongues, Sesshoumaru allowed her to explore him, his tongue only gently caressing hers with her tentative exploration. Breathing heavily their lips parted, both sets of eyes still closed, their foreheads touching briefly.

“How dare you be so damn sexy?” whispered the Miko sensually. Playing with strands of flaxen silk, she opened her eyes finally to find warm pinked amber eyes looking back at her, his dark irises dilated in pleasure.

“How dare you, Miko?” countered the Taiyoukai, as he stroked her petulant full bottom lip which began to curve into a smile.

“Touche, Mighty Western Lord. One would assume you wanted to have your wicked, evil way with me, at the rate you're going. Rest assured, flattery will get you wherever you want to go with this line of conversation,” said the Miko, looking into his eyes seductively, then at the stairs that lead into the house.

“Miko, you are incorrigible,” whispered the Taiyoukai against her lips. He lifted her and made short work of the teahouse's path, and up the porch's stairs. The door flew open, and there stood Mrs. Higurashi with her shopping basket, smiling winningly at both.

“I will be back shortly. It doesn't look like I have nearly enough steak for dinner. Expect me back within the hour…and Kagome, if you find the time, could you turn the steamer on in thirty minutes?” said her mother as she slid by the couple and down the stairs off on her errand never looking back at the duo.

Kagome smiled up at the Taiyoukai, who remained rooted to the spot, shock still evident on his face. “Your mother, Miko, is fascinating,” he said, as the Miko reached for the mesh door's handle, pulling it open, then that of the main door.

“She is, isn't she?” said the Miko.

The Taiyoukai, taking the stairs with one leap, landing effortlessly at its top, before swiftly entering the Miko's chambers, and laying her gently on the bed, before returning to close the door to their own private sanctum.

Kagome, promptly sat up and began unbuttoning her top, only to have her hand stilled by her mate.

“We need to talk, Kagome, about the conversation you overheard between Inuyasha and this Sesshoumaru,” said the Taiyoukai, looking away hurriedly from her inviting cleavage, and the lacy black binding that held her breasts so lovingly. It was enough to make the Western Lord jealous of their possessive embrace.

Standing, Sesshoumaru began to pace the room. After waiting what seemed like an eternity, the Miko timed his next retreat, and stood in his path, her shirt undone, exposing her curves and the still flat stomach. Her jeans were unbuttoned and unzipped suggestively, her hips thrust forward and her hands akimbo, daring him to ignore her.

“You are intentionally making this difficult, Onna!” said Sesshoumaru between clenched teeth. Licking his lips somewhat nervously as his eyes caressed his bitch's form; his own need obvious, rock hard and wholly uncomfortable in the foreign hakama, begging for release. `Why am I unable to think?' thought the Taiyoukai in frustration as he watched the sensual motion of her hips. She approached him like a feline stalking her prey.

Kagome smirked up at her Mate, and casually removed her top. Leaving only her bra for coverage, she moved towards him, her hips swaying suggestively. Sesshoumaru began to back away initially then stopped himself.

“Speak my Lord, since you insist. I am feeling a bit warm. So, would you mind if I relieve myself of a few vestments?” said the Miko in a breathy tone. She reached for the remote to turn on her cd player, music enveloping the room, as an enticing instrument, began to play softly and she began moving to its base beat. Her hips undulated sensuously to the primal rhythm as she turned away from her Mate, revealing, how very little was truly left to the imagination, her backside swayed enticingly.

Sesshoumaru looked very much like a deer caught in headlights, and to some extent, the miko felt sorry for him…just a smidge…but not all that much. She knew he would soon return to his senses.

The Priestess stuck both thumbs through the loops in her jeans and began inching them down her hips suggestively in rhythm to the music. She walked away from the Taiyoukai towards the overstuffed chair, where one stiletto had been carelessly thrown, sometime the night before. The jeans hit the Taiyoukai in his face then, the scent of his bitch's arousal inflaming the Taiyoukai's senses. `Take our Mate, Master! Why do we wait!?'

Bending over fully, her smooth firm cheeks fully exposed for his perusal in submission, Kagome heard a soft purr that became a growl of satisfaction, as she reached for the other shoe, which was under the chair. Barely being allowed the time to place it on her other foot, Kagome felt a hard, familiar body cover hers, his equally hard length rubbing against her exposed cheeks, keeping rhythm with the music.

“Some of us learn quickly. Mind taking off your jeans, my Lord?” moaned the miko, as she tried to right herself while maintaining contact with his heated flesh. Her current bent position over the chair, somewhat uncomfortable, Kagome tried once more to right herself, but Sesshoumaru growled in annoyance. Spreading her legs with his own strong thighs, his hands covered hers, as they lay on both arms of the chair.

“Do not move bitch,” snarled the Taiyoukai in her ear. “This Sesshoumaru likes you like this and you will await his pleasure, when and if he chooses to remove his garments,” said the Taiyoukai, nipping the Miko's neck. The demon Lord continued to tease her rear with his member still covered in the rough denim material.

“Sesshou…you …you are being unfair,” moaned the Miko. She strained against his shoulder to keep her head aloft, eyes tightly closed, enjoying the assault of her Mate's fangs against the tender flesh of her neck.

“Life's a bitch, Miko… deal,” intoned the Taiyoukai softly, as he raised himself, pulling her up with him. Turning her gently, the Western Lord receiving the look he had anticipated; a fascinating combination of unrequited lust, and shock, her soft lips open in an unspoken “Oh.”

He pulled his Mate to him then, lifting her by her hips, folding her silken limbs about his waist, as he seated himself in the chair.

Fortunately for the Taiyoukai, his supposition had been right. There was sufficient room in this chair for what he wanted. Kagome looked down at him quizzically, her legs opened in a rather vulnerable manner over his middle, as she adjusted herself more comfortably astride his hips with a wicked grin, her knees, having just enough room, on both sides of his hips. `Someone was going to get friction burn. Such is life,' she mused wantonly.

“Why you dirty, dirty, little Taiyoukai,” the Miko whispered, as she moved her cleavage towards his lips. The Western Lord slapped her ample rear with one hand, as he pulled her face down for a punishing kiss.

“You will do as I say, Miko, when I say,” said the Taiyoukai with an attempt at severity, that somehow could not find its way into his voice, “Kiss this Sesshoumaru now, Onna.”

“Yes, my Lord,” answered the Miko submissively, as she bent to do his bidding, nipping his lower lip gently. She felt one of his hands moving from its tight grip of her rear and unzip his fly, easing her up gently by the force of his hips movement, releasing himself.

Kagome looked down, one brow raised speculatively. She took an opportunity to breathe, abandoned the onerous task of kissing the male she loved, temporarily more interested in the sudden rush of warm liquid between her thighs, soaking her undies completely and the throbbing sensation between her nether lips in anticipation.

“Did I tell you to stop, bitch?” said the Taiyoukai between groans, stroking his member slowly He dug his claws gently into one butt cheek, before severing the delicate string that held the silken cloth barely covering his prize.

Kagome bit her lower lip, as she concentrated on his hand's movement between their bodies, “No but, …I mean, don't you want me to…?” she said, looking into his hooded ruby orbs.

“Woman, you are far too fond of making this Sesshoumaru repeat himself. Kiss me,” he said, pulling her face down to his lips once more. She did, but took the opportunity, to slap away his own hand that now approached her dripping sanctum. She hissed slightly against his lips, as he buried one thick digit within, her own hand finding purchase about his girth, squeezing him with each upward stroke, keeping pace with his own internal caress.

The Miko's lips quirked with a lascivious smile, as a sudden shudder traveled the entirety of the Taiyoukai's taut body in response. The shiver reverberating through hers own, moments later, as he groaned hoarsely as her walls gripped his captured digit.

Kagome knew then. She had won.

“Enough,” growled the Western Lord, suddenly wholly unsatisfied with the current situation, feeling intense jealousy towards the fortunate digit that she held prisoner within her scorching depths.

“Yes, my Lord?” said the Priestess innocently. She smiled against his lips, before kissing each ruby lid gently, as she squeezed him unmercifully within, allowing him to feel what Ruru was missing.

“You are a demoness, Miko. Let no one tell you otherwise,” hissed the Western Lord. He removed his finger, taking the opportunity to paint the Priestess' lips with her intimate essence before kissed her roughly. Raising her hips over his, he then slowly impaled her, muffling her moans, as she accepted each delicious inch of his heated length.

Though Kagome tried to quicken his movement, he refused. Instead he took immense satisfaction in his member's slow acquisition of his bitch, enjoying the feeling of her feminine walls quivering acceptance, as he filled her completely.

“Mmmm, yeeeeeeeeeees, Sesssssshhhh,” moaned the Miko, placing her hands above his head, seeking leverage from the corners of the chair's back, her warm breasts enticingly within reach of his lips.

He held her hips in a vice-like grip, preventing her instinctive need to move, willing her to feel his possessive ownership of her loins. Sesshoumaru licked the creamy flesh of her cleavage, diving into the crevice between her breasts, before nipping each hardened nipple through the lacy material in turn.

“Oh Kami! Sesshoumaru pleeeeeeeeeeeeeaaaasssssssssse!” pleaded the Miko, who looked down at her Mate in frustration.

The lecherous grin on the Taiyoukai's face was one for the books. Miroku could not have done better. Sango would have been a goner under these circumstances.

“Ride this Sesshoumaru, bitch.” commanded a deep sensual baritone, as the Western Lord returned to nipping a defenseless nipple.

sks

Inuyasha, Souta and the Guji had just begun mounting the stairs.

The red clad hanyou stilled. He blushed furiously, causing the Guji to look at him curiously, then cleared his throat, having understood the meaning of the Hanyou's sudden discomfiture.

“Inuyasha-sama, I am a bit tired. What say we three men sit here for awhile, allowing this old man some rest before taking the remaining ninety-eight stairs?”

Souta was perfectly fine with this arrangement, though it would mean, he would lose his ride on Inuyasha's shoulders, and there was another pressing issue. He wanted to go.

“Gramps, but I gotta go,” said Souta apologetically.

“Souta, go in the bushes over there,” said Inuyasha, glad of his own reprieve of having to explain why it might not have been such a good idea, to approach the main house in the next few minutes. He always knew Kagome had a set of lungs on her, but this was downright freaky. His brother's chambers were going to need sound-proofing, if the noise she was making was anything to go by, thought the Hanyou with a sudden wicked smirk, realizing just how this might have been affecting the Taiyoukai's own sensitive hearing.

sks

Kagome was the first to acknowledge the inordinate amount of noise on the stairs as Souta, Inuyasha and her Gramps clambered up. She watched them, one brow raised in query.

Dutifully, they both had quickly showered, post coital bliss, and set about preparing the dining room table. Well, Sesshoumaru did anyway, while Kagome prepared the fragrant Jasmine rice to accompany their meal. The Western Lord came to stand beside her, dressed in the navy blue silk yukata, his usual bland expression in place as he looked down at his mate.

“Inuyasha heard us, and he is making an attempt at decorum, giving us sufficient warning of their presence. Do not spoil this rare moment of actual forethought on his part,” said the Taiyoukai flatly, before returning to his task.

Kagome blushed to her roots and busied herself with preparations, refusing to look towards the kitchen door, as Inuyasha came barreling in with Souta, heading for the fridge, prepared to graze before dinner.

“You too better not eat anything and spoil dinner,” said Kagome quietly, as the only other female in the Higurashi household came through the door, smiling indulgently at all concerned.

“Listen well to your sister, Souta. I would be very disappointed after the trouble I have gone to marinating the steaks,” said Mrs. Higurashi.

The priestess turned suddenly no longer pre-occupied with the steamer, “Excuse me?” she said, looking at the basket, no longer empty but filled with ramen.

“Correct me if I'm at all wrong MOTHER, but didn't you say you were going to get more meat for tonight's meal?” said Kagome, who began to tap her foot.

Mrs. Higurashi blushed prettily behind one delicately raised hand. “Oh my, did I say that dear? Sorry, I just thought it would be nice that Inuyasha had a ready supply on his return later this evening. So sorry for the confusion. I don't know where my mind is these days, what with all the comings and goings around here,” she said softly.

The Taiyoukai stood in the doorway, pointedly looking at his Mate.

“Right,” said the Miko in frustration. “Do you need any help in the preparation, Mom?” said the Miko softly.

“No, no dear, you go and spend some time with Inuyasha,” said Mrs. Higurashi. She reached for her apron, effectively, putting an end to the potential confrontation.

Kagome raised her shoulders in a shrug, and exited the kitchen for the living room. She was closely followed dutifully by the Taiyoukai, the Hanyou and a small male drinking a can of coke, oblivious to the near cataclysmic explosion that almost occurred right under their noses.

Only Buyo remained in the kitchen, seeking safe refuge from the predatory eye's of the Hanyou.

Kagome sat companionably on the couch with the Western Lord, who sipped his sake while the Miko curled into his arms, eyes closed peacefully, as Inuyasha and Souta, engaged in a samurai death match with the PS2.

Grandfather sipped his tea on the opposite side of the room at his writing desk, pleasantly worrying his thin beard. He watched the Miko and her Mate's aura, and that of his great-grandchild's, well pleased with the turn of events in the Higurashi household.

sks

“That was freakin awesome, Mrs. H.,” burped Inuyasha approvingly, as he slurped the last of his sake and patted his belly.

The look of utter revulsion on the Taiyoukai's face made Kagome snort, before slapping one delicate feminine hand over her mouth, excusing herself and headed for the porch.

Inuyasha followed her, snickering derisively.

“He's so freakin easy,” said the Hanyou, nodding in the direction of his brother, who chose to remain behind, helping Mrs. Higurashi to clear. Souta headed upstairs, tired from a rather full day.

“I know,” said the Miko, still chuckling.

“Inuyasha, you do it to tease him, don't you?” said the Miko in sudden realization.

“And you…” his eyes glowing with an opalescent gleam in the darkness of the evening. Only the stars and cresting moon were now evident in the stillness of the night. Kagome tapped the stair on which she sat.

“Asshole,” whispered the Miko, suddenly feeling a disarming warmth towards her very best friend. The old feelings returned, manifesting themselves differently now. Oh yes, there was love, but of an entirely different kind.

“Takes one, to know one, woman,” said the Hanyou.

Kagome yanked a silky, warm ear.

“Oooowwww! Cut that out, bitch!” said the Hanyou, as a menacing low growl came from behind the seated friends.

“Sesshoumaru, don't get your shorts in a knot. We are talking here. Nothing weird is going on,” said Inuyasha still rubbing his abused ear. He nudged Kagome playfully as she batted his hand away, chuckling.

“This Sesshoumaru would prefer you not refer to his Mate in that manner,” said the Taiyoukai in his even, well modulated baritone. He had known they were playing with one another, as he had seen many times before. Though he tried to mask it, he still felt a twinge of jealousy at the companionable nature of his Mate and brother's relationship.

Stepping between them, the Western Lord sat, one step below, allowing them to keep their place. He looked up at the moon, feigning indifference to both their presence.

“So Lord Tight-Ass, what time are you both coming back tomorrow?” said Inuyasha, as Kagome gave him a warning look, sticking her tongue out at the back of her Mate's head.

“Early. We have much to do in the coming days,” said the Taiyoukai. “Miko? Kindly return your tongue to its proper place, before this Sesshoumaru finds a more appropriate use for it” said the Taiyoukai impassively, before standing and making for the teahouse.

“Aren't you going to follow, Lover Boy?” said the Hanyou, teasingly.

Kagome turned to her friend then, with laughter in her voice, perfectly aware one delicately pointed ear, was still very much listening to every word spoken some distance from him.

“If Sexy Lips wanted me to follow, I would know,” said the Miko smugly, raising her chin.

“Feh, you're both pathetic. Like those stupid books you like to read. Still, I am happy for you `Gome. I know despite his frigid nature, he will always take care of you. The miserable fuck loves you.”

Kagome smiled, “You have a way with words don't you, InuBrata?”

She thought better of a sudden question she had, deciding to face the Kikyou issue when they returned to the Western Lands. Kagome hoped she could do something for Inuyasha with respect to Kikyou; the only woman he would ever rightly love.

Her heart gave in to temptation then, as she crushed him in her arms.

“Let go! I don't need him ripping my head off thinking I am making a play for you, woman!” said the Hanyou. He hurriedly tried to remove her hands from around his neck. “Fuck! When did you get so strong? Oh yeah, the mating…” he mumbled, righting his hitatare, as Kagome finally let him go…on her terms and in her own good time.

The door opened then, as always, a new pack the color of the Inuyasha's fire rat robe being handed to the half-demon by Mrs. Higurashi.

“Thanks, Mom,” said Inuyasha, patting the pack happily. His own supplies. No longer would he have to wait on the Miko's behest, if he wanted a little snack in the middle of the night.

He fidgeting nervously, adjusting Tesseiga on his hip, recognizing it was time to go.

“I guess I'll see you both in the morning, then?” said Inuyasha, looking nervously about. He always hated moments like these.

“Yeah, bright and early,” said Kagome, standing next to her mother.

“As you know Inuyasha-sama, we are a family and you are welcome anytime. I know I will see you quite soon, if for nothing else, more supplies,” she smiled fondly up at him before bowing graciously and returning indoors, allowing the friends some privacy.

Kagome looked for Sesshoumaru, who was nowhere in sight.

“What's with you two anyway?” she said tiredly. The eternal chess match that was the brothers Taishou relationship would always befuddle her.

“No worries. Don't give a shit, anyway. See you tomorrow,” said the Hanyou diffidently, allowing the Miko to hug him once more, before descending the stairs and loping to the well-house. He snarled at Buyo for good measure as he passed. Buyo opened one ruby eye and snarled in turn. Inuyasha stopped, stunned and looked again. No the little fat bastard's eyes weren't red after all, must've been a trick of the light, he thought as he opened the doors to the well-house, closing them behind him, effectively cutting off the Miko's view.

“Yeah, I can smell you for miles Asshole,” said Inuyasha, tossing the pack to the ground and turning to face the pale figure in the shadows.

Sesshoumaru regarded his brother blandly. Stepping forward to retrieve the new pack, inspecting it, then sniffing it in vague disgust, before turning the Hanyou towards the well and roughly placing the pack's straps over each arm, as though dressing a child, before hoisting him over the lip of the well. The Western Lord looked into the incandescent light at the smirking Hanyou who mouthed “Asshole”, before he disappeared into the translucent glow.

“I knew you wouldn't let him leave without saying bye,” said the Miko softly, her arms snaking about the Taiyoukai's lean waist.

“Hn, this Sesshoumaru did no such thing,” said the Taiyoukai, turning to face the lithe female who stood in the darkness smiling up at him.

“Riiiiiggggggggggggggght, let's go in. We have to pack and I have one last treat for you to try. If it kills me, you will enjoy food for its own sake,” said the Miko determinedly. Pulling her recalcitrant mate behind, she missed entirely the subtle shift of his lips upward.

Author's Note

Tentative bonds are being forged…how timely.

Ja Ne

EP