InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ This Sesshoumaru Needs Not A Mate - ON HOLD ❯ PART TWENTY-ONE ( Chapter 21 )

 

 

 

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

 

Dedication: Those who write, quite often affect us profoundly in our own personal development and evolution as people. I take this moment to thank one of my favourite authors, a simple man, a clever man, a fine soul, one Benjamin Hoff, author of The Tao of Pooh. This chapter is dedicated to all the jewel of four souls, and the one, who recognized the greatness of a half- clothed bear, fond of honey.

 

SEXUAL CONTENT - You have been warned.

 

Reviews are fuel.

 

Part Twenty- One - This Sesshoumaru Needs Not A Mate

 

"Lots of people talk to animals," said Pooh.
"Not that many listenthough."
"That's the problem."

 

“Miko?” said the Western Lord, while he massaged a toned, feminine calf with delicately scented jasmine oil.

 

“Hnnnnn?” murmured Kagome into a fluffy pillow, eyes closed in bliss, face down. There were definite perks to being the Western Lady. Her youkai gave incredible massages. Perhaps, this could become a daily ritual, she thought decadently, with a blissful sleepy smile.

 

“My beast has returned,” said the taiyoukai nonchalantly. Still concentrating on his task, he found a particularly tight knot of muscle, which he gently kneaded into pliant submission. Citrine eyes caressed her firm, pert butt cheeks and the two dimples at the hollowed based of her spine that begged to be licked.

 

“Newsflash my Lord, you gave me quite the going over this morning and most of last night,” said the Miko with a muffled, contented sigh. The Lord was forcing her to speak, when all she wanted was to enjoy their last private moments of bliss and some semblance of the morning's quietude.

 

His fingers tensed at her seeming dismissive tone, and Kagome sighed inwardly. She was going to have to give details, the very thing she did not want to do. Her mind having its own maelstrom of thoughts, she did not yet wish to face. The honeymoon would soon be over.

 

“Sesshoumaru, your beast returned yesterday afternoon,” intoned the Miko with a lewd, knowing smirk, “I could tell. A woman can tell these things, you know,” she said, smugly.

 

“Mmmmm….right there, mmmm….he never left Sesshoumaru. Who knows, after a few hundred years of your stoicism, egotism, and general cantankerousness, I might take a leave of absence myself,” she said teasingly. “You can be rather challenging at times, my Lord. Mmmm…a little to the left…ahhhh, yes…,” she murmured contentedly into the pillow.

 

The bliss, that was her attentive massage, stopped abruptly. Her prone form abandoned, causing the Miko to raise her head and turn to find the nude male glaring down at her with marked displeasure in his citrine eyes and the firm set of his lips.

 

Kagome sighed. `I could have handled that better.' she thought tiredly. She turned over fully on her towel to face the easily riled Taiyoukai.

 

“Sesshou?” she intoned apologetically. No response, but there was a heated glimmer in those golden eyes, she knew she would never tire of. Even angry, the way they caressed her body made her feel wholly desired and loved.

 

“Baby?” she tried again in a contrite little voice, designed to appease, opening her arms to him, offering him sanctuary. It worked. The Taiyoukai placed one knee tentatively on the bed, then slowly crawled up the Miko's form. His hair flowed over his shoulders, caressing her in his ascent before he settled over her and she enclosed him in her embrace.

 

“Sesshoumaru, I know you were worried. You have never been without your beast for any length of time, and you must have felt abandoned. I might not be able to understand fully, but I can empathize,” she said softly, their noses touching.

 

His body's tension eased, as he raised his head in order to caress her soft lips with one clawed digit. `Progress,' she thought.

 

Kagome took a deep breath.

 

“Sesshoumaru, I was being selfish in trying to enjoy our final private moments together. We face so much, and I have enjoyed our time without all the hubbub that we are surely going to face,” she said looking into pinked, questioning amber eyes.

 

“Let me make it up to you,” she said seductively grinding her hips against his, before nipping one delicate pale lobe.

 

“As well you should, Miko. You have overstepped,” intoned the Taiyoukai in his usual, deep register, one brow quirked in veiled amusement. His current predominant thought was evident by the rigid heated velvet length that rested against her abdomen.

 

The Taiyoukai raised himself on his elbows, examining her prone form, as his nostrils flared in pleasure at her scent.

 

Kagome smiled mischievously, “I think this Kagome should be punished, my Lord, quite severely. Do you have anything in mind?” she inquired softly. Her fingers grazed his scalp, then slowly made their way down his back, her pleasurable wanderings ending at his firm taut backside. Kneading his rear, she made her own desires known with a soft moan.

 

“Nice ass, my Lord,” whispered the Miko next to the taiyoukai's lips.

 

A licentious smile graced the hard lines of the handsome visage above her, “You will be punished,” said the Taiyoukai, as he continued to appraise the female below him seductively. She was a delight to look at. Quite a shame she should be made to wear clothing of any kind, he thought, as he leaned down and took one nipple between his teeth and pulled roughly, while the other was pinched between his index finger and thumb.

 

“Whatever you desire, my Lord,” she groaned in a breathy response. One small, tapered hand eased itself between them both, seeking his member. Said hand was stopped roughly.

 

“You will not pleasure me, bitch, until I tell you to,” said the Taiyoukai, as he flipped the Miko over forcefully so she sat astride his chest, holding her wrists firmly to both sides.

 

Kagome smiled down at the Western Lord lasciviously, while he took in the tempting curvaceous vision above him with his ruby colored eyes.

 

“What is it you desire, my Lord,” said the Miko, as she slide forward seductively, leaving a moist trail over his hard chest, allowing the western lord to feel her own slick need. He growled softly in acknowledgement.

 

“This Sesshoumaru desires his bitch to sate his thirst,” murmured the Taiyoukai.

 

Kagome clenched involuntarily and moaned. `My kind of punishment,' the Miko thought, as she slide forward once more, once the taiyoukai had loosened his grip sufficiently. Sesshoumaru adjusted his own position underneath her, finally releasing her wrists. He had plans for his hands.

 

“Beautiful,” murmured the Taiyoukai, in his deep baritone, breathing in deeply of his bitch's distinctive, arousing scent, as she lowered her glistening folds to his lips. She arched her back at the first tentative contact made by his rough tongue to her sensitive nub. The Taiyoukai opened his mouth fully, as the Miko leaned into his own wet embrace.

 

Kagome grasped the bed head, her knuckles white, as soft moans of pleasure came from her throat in chorus with the guttural groans of a contented male.

 

“Ooooooh Sesshoumaru….yes … like that baby…mmmmm, yes…your tongue…yes…” mewled the Miko, in bliss, as he suckled her expertly, purring his own pleasure with each swipe of his tongue. He tentatively probed her inner core, then flattening his tongue and lapping her, but not sufficiently to satisfy her need.

 

The nubile female undulating above him was in ecstasy, as her aura danced in its own private sensual meditation.

 

“Mmmm…you feel so good,” whispered the Miko, her body dewy from the tension of maintaining her position above him, so as not to smother him, and dilute her own pleasure.

 

“Yeeeeeeeeeees, punish me baby,” cried the Miko, as she began bucking against his lips, his nose hitting her sensitive nub in all the right ways.

 

Sesshoumaru nipped the priestess gently, causing her to raise her hips at the sudden unexpected sensation, and look down at him in disapproval, though her eyes remained hooded. He smirked around the reddened flesh he held gently between perfect white teeth.

 

His fangs looking decidedly deadly in that moment, Kagome thought, as she shivered. Fear coursed through her momentarily, as he growled softly, looking up at her in challenge, before lathing the delicate nerve endings, renewing the pleasurable sensation.

 

“Bad Taiyoukai. I'll punish you later,” moaned the Miko, as she pressed her wet flesh into him demanding more stimulation. Sesshoumaru did not respond to her demand, instead, selecting to kiss her intimately, reverently.

 

“Mine,” groaned the Taiyoukai, looking up at the Miko, before his tongue entered her with an unparalleled force.

 

Kagome opened her mouth to scream, but nothing came, instead she saw stars, only partially aware, the room had suddenly moved, as she found herself under the taiyoukai once more. She opened her eyes to find a rather handsome, demonic male with wet cheeks looking down at her, her thighs spread, her wrist once more bound by his callused hands to the bed.

 

“Sesshoumaru?” said the Miko in question, not entirely sure why he kept staring at her, though his expression still held desire, and every evident inch of him proved that point, and yet he did not move, remaining still, looking into her eyes.

 

Kagome was so mesmerized by her Mate's intense gaze, it took a moment for the Miko to realize her body was searing hot, and her mark ached … `He really was punishing her.'

 

“There will be no more talk of leaving this Sesshoumaru, not even in jest, Miko,” said the Taiyoukai. He lowered his head to nuzzle her sex with closed eyes, scenting her softly while purring.

 

Though he could never speak the words aloud, regardless of her inability to think before she spoke, he needed her to understand, wordlessly, that she had hurt him deeply, however unintended.

 

“Sesshou….baby….never,” she said in understanding, as she eased her legs further apart in submission. Sesshoumaru raising his head slightly, staring into the Miko's soft eyes passively, as he stroked her inner thighs with his cheeks.

 

 

“Mine,” whispered the Taiyoukai lazily, easing his body over hers. Flaxen strands cascaded over the Miko, in a curtain, reminiscent of their first time together. She was a temptress, made more so by her beguiling innocence, he thought contentedly, `and mine.' His beast agreed, quietly.

 

The Miko gently traced the Taiyoukai's elegant brows, then his markings, reaching up to pass her lips across the now jagged lines of maroon, “Yours, now and always, my Lord…” she intoned, as she pulled the silken head towards her, tasting herself on his lips, moaning, and deepening the kiss. Their teeth clashed in sudden fervor, as both strove to quell the others pent need for affirmation.

 

Finally, coming up for air, Kagome looked into Sesshoumaru's ruby orbs, her warm brown eyes conveying what she desired.

 

“Fuck me, Sesshoumaru,” she said softly, not looking away shyly, “Fuck me, hard.”

 

A frantic lust seized both the Miko and the Western Lord then, foreshadowing potential loss, as he buried himself within her, more forcefully, than he had ever done before. The room glowed faintly in a protective pale white cocoon muffling the sound of two writhing beings engaged in the primordial dance of lust.

 

sks

 

“Ready yourself, Miko. You must eat, and I will attend the garden before we leave,” intoned the Taiyoukai, having showered and dressed in record time. He was quite apt at that little trick, Kagome had come to realize.

 

“Sesshoumaru, I am happy that he has returned,” reiterated the Miko. “I would never, ever want you to lose that which makes you intrinsically you.”

 

The Western Lord looked into her eyes, and unable to sustain the emotions depicted there. He cast his attentions to her inviting swollen lips, leaned forward, and kissing them passionately, before bending to place a gentle kiss on her abdomen.

 

Coiling silver strands about her index finger, Kagome looked down at her Mate with a knowing smile. She understood just fine, and felt no need to declare what was self- evident. He loved her and their pup more than his life. Kagome was learning discretion and why it, always, would be the better part of valor.

 

“Let's have tea on the porch. We do our best thinking there, when you are done in the garden,of course,” she said, as she allowed him to scent her neck in promise.

 

“Hn” he murmured, “Shower. This Sesshoumaru will not be held responsible for what he will do to you, should you remain enticingly available.”

 

Deciding to throw caution to the wind, Kagome grasped the Taiyoukai's butt cheeks and pulled her Mate forward, grinding her hips against his…just to tease, “Well, we haven't done it in the shower, yet….” she smirked, before letting him go and running into the bathroom giggling, slamming the door behind her in the nick of time. A low frustrated howl came from the other side of the door she leaned on. The Priestess smiled happily, though a might sore.

 

“I will see you downstairs, Miko, and rest assured tonight…we will do “it” in the hot springs at the Western Shiro. Enjoy your reprieve. Do not neglect to pack your footwear, and the silken leggings you call stockings. They are pleasurable to the touch,” were the last words she heard before her bedroom door clicked closed.

 

Both held a secretive smiling of anticipation.

 

“Don't you worry, big boy. That's not all that will be packed…” said Kagome, as she turned on the shower and hummed softly, stepping into its welcoming caress.

 

sks

 

"When you wake up in the morning, Pooh," said Piglet at last, "what's the first thing you say to yourself?"
"What's for breakfast? said Pooh. "What do yousay, Piglet?"
"I say, I wonder what's going to happen exciting today?" said Piglet.
Pooh nodded thoughtfully.
"It's the same thing," he said.

 

 

“Miroku, what the hell is wrong with Inuyasha this morning?” said Sango in frustration as she entered the dining hall. Fully clad for battle, her Hiraikotsu was slung over one shoulder, having almost been knocked over as Inuyasha passed her in the hall, without acknowledgment; nothing but a blur of movement.

 

The Houshi spent an inordinate amount of time studying the female anatomy as a whole. He had made it his life's work in fact, but he had to admit, she was an extraordinary specimen of the female variety. Her hips swayed gracefully as she walked casually, but powerfully into the room.

 

Even her gate was sexy. There was no other woman like her,' thought the Houshi, as he adjusted his robes subconsciously.

 

Temporarily mesmerized by the curvaceous beauty in front of him, he allowed himself to breathe before answering, placing his cup down, fingers trembling slightly, as he strove to regain control of his emotions before answering.

 

Shippou smirked as he ate a rice ball, paying particular attention to Miroku's unusual discomposure upon the taijya's entrance. Sango appeared oblivious, having not yet made eye contact with the Priest, instead choosing to sit beside him amicable, and smiling at Shippou softly.

 

A servant approached quietly from the side, bowed, and poured tea for Sango, who bowed in turn, highly uncomfortable with the servility of the staff within the shiro. Even without the Western Lord's presence, it was clear, they were to be treated as honored guests, at all times, or risk death upon his return.

 

Miroku smiled at Sango as she took up her cup and sipped appreciatively.

 

The kit tiring of Miroku's dumb struck expression, decided to begin the conversation.

 

“Dog boy has been in rare form this morning. Screaming and yelling at everyone, and if he doesn't stop it, the soldiers are going to kill him. I think he is really nervous that Sesshoumaru-sama is returning today; even more so than because Mama is, too,” said the kitsune, as he poked the last of his rice ball into his mouth and chewed happily.

 

Miroku smiled at Shippou then, finally finding his own ability to speak.

 

“I agree, Shippou. I do believe we are seeing an entirely different side of Inuyasha. Something must have occurred on the other side. He seems a little more focused and, dare I say, invested in things Western Shiro,” said the Houshi, returning his gaze to the bronze beauty beside him.

 

“Did you rest well Sango? Might I add, you look particularly lovely today,” said the Priest pleasantly, with a deferential bow.

 

Sango looked at the Priest, and gave him a tepid smile, as another servant approached and filled her bowl with steaming vegetable broth. Quietly, a delicate array of thinly sliced steamed fish was placed to its right for her convenience, before retreating on silent tabi clad feet.

 

“Thank you,” said the Slayer, and returned her attention to the fragrant bowl set in front of her. She delicately began to spoon the steaming liquid to her lips.

 

Miroku's smile faded and he looked at Shippou who shrugged. Deciding to try again,

“I haven't seen Kirara this morning. Where is she?” said the Priest, in hopes that, perhaps, beginning with an innocuous stab at conversation would make the Taijya more forthcoming.

 

“She is in the garden with Rin and Kaede. That is where I have been for the last hour,” she said indifferently, then smiled over at the kit.

 

“So Shippou, are you excited about your baby sister?” she said brightly.

 

“Yes. I missed Mama and Sesshoumaru-sama. It seems like forever but it has only been two days,” the Kitsune said, again looking at Miroku, whose face, previously overjoyed, was taking on a pallid, confused expression.

 

Smiling softly at the little red head, Sango finally showed signs of visibly relaxing as she placed her spoon next to her bowl and ruffled Shippou's head.

 

“I look forward to their return, too. We have much to discuss and do,” said the Taijya with feigned pleasantness. She furtively looked at the thoroughly confused Priest.

 

Miroku's face took on a blank expression as he interjected, “Yes, it is quite the turn of events having our Priestess with child so soon. I wonder how this will affect the battle with Naraku? I can't imagine Lord Sesshoumaru allowing her to participate putting both his Mate and the child in danger. So, it might well, correctly, fall to us,” said the Houshi, having given up on attempts at pleasantry with the demon-slayer for the time being.

 

“Not so Houshi. Ye misunderstand, the vital power the Miko holds in winning this battle,” said Kaede, as she came through the hall's fusuma, being helped in her movements by her cane on one side and Rin on the other.

 

The Houshi quickly stood, glad of a distraction from his current emotions, and approached the healer. He gently extricated Rin's small hand from that of the elder miko, and taking his place at the elder miko's side. Kaede gave the priest a grateful bow. Damp mornings were always the worst for her when it came to her arthritic joints. For whatever reason, the last two days had been particularly severe, though Shou brought her medicinal tea to her chambers like clockwork every night, her pain had not eased.

 

Once he had seated her comfortably, and Rin took her natural place by Shippou, the servants busied themselves attending to the Taiyoukai's guests respective needs in hushed silence.

 

Before the Houshi could ask for an explanation, as to what Kaede had meant, a high pitched male scream was heard, and the sight of flapping gray robes passed the fusuma at indecent speed.

 

“Come back here, you worm! What the fuck were you doing in Lord Sesshoumaru's chambers? Last time I heard you were a kitchen lacky and a general…dog's body!” screamed Inuyasha in hot pursuit.

 

“INUYASHA!” said the Priest in tired frustration. Getting to his own feet he glowered at the Hanyou, who screeched to a halt, puffy eyed. By the look of him, he had not slept the night before.

 

Shippou chimed in then, “Yeah Inuyasha, stop scaring Sesshoumaru-sama's staff! I, for one, will be glad when they get back, so you can stop being a jerk. Power has gone to what little brain you do have,” said the little Kit, who felt that much braver with Miroku standing in Inuyasha's path.

 

“Why you little…” snarled the half-breed cracking his knuckles, Shou long forgotten, as he stalked through the fusuma with menacing intent towards his new prey. Miroku stepped into his path and glowered at him with equally tired violet eyes.

 

“Pervert… Get the fuck out of my way! I have had it with his lip!” growled Inuyasha as he stared at the kit with undue malevolence over Miroku's shoulder.

 

Miroku did not budge, “Come with me, Inuyasha. You are making a fool of yourself,” said the Houshi, as he attempted to intercept the half-demon unsuccessfully and instead was tossed aside against the wall with force.

 

Silence followed, and Sango stood, and cart-wheeled across the table in one swift, impressive movement. She disturbed nothing in her path but the Hanyou, who she now stood in front of, arms akimbo.

 

“Back-off Inuyasha. What in Kami is wrong with you this morning?” said Sango, testily.

 

The kitsune gulped, realizing rather too late, that perhaps, he had himself finally overstepped, having hit a rather sensitive nerve. He began to cower, unsure of where to hide. Instead selecting to make himself as small as possible.

 

It was then that Rin stood and glared up at Inuyasha beside Sango, Kaede remained seated, and kept a firm grip on her own cane. If it came to it, she could always trip the obnoxious, young half-demon.

 

“Relax child, observe. None will come to harm,” whispered Kaede to Shippou. She looked at Rin with her one good eye shining like the proverbial black pearl, her brow raised in question.

 

“Get out of my way,” snarled the Hanyou, suddenly less sure of his previously intended action. The kid had always given him the shivers, and Sango rarely stood up to him.

 

“Shippou speaks the truth. You simply cannot handle it,” came the small female voice in a bored tone, reminiscent of Sesshoumaru.

 

Miroku came to stand behind Inuyasha quietly, one hand, once more, on his shoulder.

 

“Miroku, I am warning you, Priest, let go of me. I am not goin' to kill him, just teach him a lesson about respect,” hissed Inuyasha, attempting to shrug the Priest's hand from his shoulder, this time unsuccessfully. The Priest had not anticipated the force of the previous attack from his friend. This time he was prepared.

 

“Come with me, Inuyasha. You are tired and have not slept,” said the Houshi, pulling at the Hanyou's shoulder.

 

Timing being everything, Jaken chose that exact moment to make an appearance, looked thoroughly frazzled, and yes, angry. The wretched Hanyou had turned his well organized shiro upside down in the last two days. The only respite was his trip to that foreign place to visit the Western Lord and Lady in her world.

 

“Yes, Priest, take him away” said the Kappa. “He has been nothing but a menace, with his constant interference in my Lord's well run shiro. This morning alone the horrid whelp has been seen stalking the servants as they went about their daily task, threatened the cook, Megumi and offensively examined each dish to be served for the morning meal. Then there is the matter of the guards. Rest assured, I am sure when Commander Daichi returns he will have much to say to Lord Sesshoumaru on the unmerited disrespect they have been shown. Equally, there is the lesser matter of the elderly and not always stable Shou, who now sits in the kitchens, almost dead from nervous exhaustion, having been chased around the honmaru by that imbecile. I will be giving Lord Sesshoumaru a full report of his behavior in his absence,” said the little Kappa indignantly, as he stood in front of Rin, protectively looking up into confused tired amber eyes.

 

The Kappa squinted up at the peculiar expression, then took Rin's hand. “It is time for your lessons Rin. You have been inattentive of late, and it is time to address this matter before Lord Sesshoumaru returns,” said the toad youkai firmly, as he pulled the unwilling pupil towards the outer doors and down the hall to the library.

 

The mention of Commander Daichi, had been the deciding factor, in the rapid cooling of the Hanyou's temper. Aside from Miroku, no one else knew he was long dead and buried in secret by the Priest and himself.

 

Inuyasha felt beaten suddenly. Some of what the toad had said was actually true, he realized. He might have been overdoing it, trying to make sure everything was still running smoothly for Sesshoumaru's and Kagome's return. His sense of inadequacy had gotten the better of him once more.

 

Shippou stood nervously, and approached Inuyasha and the Monk, who now stood next to his friend. Sidestepping the Taijya, the Kitsune looked up at Inuyasha apologetically, twisting his little hands together nervously.

 

“I…I know you have been doing everything you can, Inuyasha…I'm sorry…I apologize,” said the Kit, looking up into large beaten amber eyes, his own bottle green filled with regretful tears at his hurtful words.

 

Kaede smiled, and looked to Sango's surprised expression, as she looked at the kit.

 

The Hanyou scowled at the Kitsune, growled in frustration, turned, and left, closely followed by the Houshi. Inuyasha would not be hard to find. He already had a new favorite limb in an ancient tree in the lily garden that overlooked the sea.

 

sks

 

" It's not surprising, therefore, that the Backson thinks of progress in terms of fighting and overcoming. One of his little idiosyncrasies, you might say. Of course real progress involves growing and developing, which involves changing inside, but that's something the inflexible Backson is unwilling to do."

 

 

 

The Miko sat on the step of the porch enjoying the early morning air with Buyo in her lap. Reverting to a kitten, the feline batted her hair playfully as it moved gently about her face in the wind. Kagome smiled down at him gently, as she scratched his ample chin. Buyo purring in contentment, while two mugs of steaming tea stood within reach beside her, one sipped moments before the `scratchie fest'.

 

Sesshoumaru approached on silent feet, watching intently the interactions between that of the Miko and the neko youkai's descendant. The softness of her features as she tickled the small lesser being struck him, as did the pleasure in both their auras. They were communicating on a deeper level. `Without much effort, the Miko seems inherently able to touch all souls she encounters at the deepest level. Bestowing on all those fortunate enough, the gift of affection in infinite variety,' the Taiyoukai mused, adjusting his moko-moko-sama, uncomfortable with the unusual thought pattern he had in that moment. It was undoubtedly caused by his overly enamored beast…he knew this was untrue, but delusions are helpful in times of emotional growth, when those in the midst of it, cannot accept.

 

Looking in the direction of the Taiyoukai, the Miko smiled gently and waved. She looked off once more, fully engrossed in her own thoughts of what was to come. Buyo selected that moment to lazily move out of her lap, having seen the Taiyoukai, who though not as annoying as his younger sibling, but still made the small being uncomfortable, if in his presence for any length of time.

 

The Taiyoukai watched the ample retreating backside of the feline with a quirked brow.

 

Kagome chuckled, “No offense, I think you remind him of Inuyasha too much. He will come to like you more over time, my Lord,” said the Miko, patting the space beside her, while offering the Taiyoukai a mug amicably.

 

He took it, and sat, selecting his own distant horizon in which to gaze silently, as he adjusted Tenseiga and Toukijin for comfort while seated.

 

Sipping the fragrant liquid meditatively, the taiyoukai was the first to speak.

 

“Where are they?”

 

“Well,” said the Miko resting her cup on her knee “It is Monday, and we re-open the shrine tomorrow for the public, so Jii-Chan and Souta are off buying more ridiculous unguents to sell to the unsuspecting tourists. Oka-saan is taking her morning's walk in the woods. She has done that since I was a child about Rin's age, actually. Though now I suspect she takes her bow and practices out there, away from prying eyes. Funny, the things you don't notice as a child,” said the Miko, with a smile playing about her lips, touching the vile about her neck.

 

“Hn.”

 

“I'm confused Sesshoumaru,” said the Miko.

 

Sesshoumaru glanced at the beautiful woman, with the pensive expression, in question.

 

“My Lady?” said the Taiyoukai deferentially with a serious contemplative look.

 

Kagome swiveled, her large brown eyes stunned, staring at the profile of the Taiyoukai. Equally swiftly he turned away, masking his own amusement at her sudden start at the appellation. The tea had almost spilled as a result.

 

Deciding to ignore his amused aura, Kagome leveled the Taiyoukai with a knowing glare, before clearing her throat. “Aramitama, and Nigimitama are both Inuyasha, and the same could be said, of all the inutachi,” said the Miko. I cannot see where each is a separate aspect.”

 

Without blinking, the taiyoukai turned citrine eyes to the Miko.

 

“All might well be reflections, but each has a distinct calling to be harnessed. Ask yourself, Miko, why was Inuyasha able to use Tessaiga when I, a superior warrior, was not?” the Taiyoukai paused for effect, then continued.

 

“What is his intrinsic quality of spirit?”

 

Kagome smiled, “He is ruthlessly stubborn and refuses to be beaten by anything.”

 

The Taiyoukai nodded almost imperceptibly, choosing to look away from his Miko once more before continuing his thought.

 

“Due to circumstance of birth, and the twists of fate, Inuyasha above all else, has shown courage and fortitude, despite seeming insurmountable odds. In the process of facing life's inordinate challenges and ostensible derelictions and cruelty, the Hanyou has learned compassion, which is secondary,” intoned the Taiyoukai. The sound of shuffling feet and an excitable pup approached at a run, carrying a small satchel, caught both their attentions.

 

Kagome and Sesshoumaru stood in unison. The Miko smiled down at Souta, `This might be the last time I see him, should the battle go badly and in favor of Naraku,' she thought sadly.

 

The Western Lord scented the change in his Mate's demeanor immediately. He selected to stand behind her, not touching, but allowing her to feel his presence and his own jyaki caressing her own aura, bolstering her spirit.

 

Smiling gently, the Guji approached the couple, well pleased. The desired change in Sesshoumaru had occurred, finally. He had learned to sublimate his own desires to that of his Mate, and he still wore the amulet. There would be no need to insist he wear it for their lifetime. It was best he remain unaware of its true purpose or significance. It would eventually pass to his great grand child, as foretold.

 

“Sesshoumaru-sama! Sesshoumaru-sama! Look what I got,” said the small pup, happily. He placed his satchel at the top of the stair, before the taiyoukai's feet, reaching in and bringing out his repaired remote controlled plane, sans silken carp covering.

 

Kagome chuckled, looking to Sesshoumaru's vaguely perplexed expression, before the light dawned in his beautiful amber eyes. The Miko noted, though similar to Inuyasha's they were a paler shade, almost cold by comparison, but infinitely more mesmerizing and thoroughly enticing.

 

Unceremoniously, Souta grabbed a large clawed hand, and placed the much beloved object in the callused palm, while he stooped again and rifled his pack for the remote, coming up with it smiling joyfully.

 

“Let's test it out before you leave,” said Souta, taking the taiyoukai's other hand and pulling him down the stairs. Kagome stood and watched in amazement, as her younger sibling lead the tall, imposing male to stand below the Goshinboku. Just two days prior, said small male would never have dreamed of approaching the Taiyoukai, much less dragging him about like his own personal toy. What was more, the Taiyoukai would never have deigned to allow this personal `assault' or breach of protocol with respect to his youkai.

 

The Guji came to stand beside his grand-daughter and smiled down at the small dark haired male and the considerably taller flaxen haired one. Sesshomaru's brows were currently furrowed, gazing at the remote control in fascination, then at the plane, as it responded to his every touch, buzzing happily towards the tea house, while Souta cheered.

 

“When you discard arrogance, complexity, and a few other things that get in the way, sooner or later you will discover that simple, childlike, and mysterious secret known to those of the Uncarved Block,” said the Guji meditatively. He left the final three words to the Miko, who looked to her grandfather and smiled, before finishing the quote.

 

“ Life… `IS'… Fun,” said the Miko, as she sat, and finished her lukewarm tea, observing the contained joy, that both she and her gramps could see in the Taiyoukai's now brilliant red aura.

 

sks

 

“Everything has its own place and function. That applies to people, although many don't seem to realize it, stuck as they are in the wrong job, the wrong marriage, or the wrong house. When you know and respect your Inner Nature, you know where you belong. You also know where you don't belong.”

 

 

“Naraku, get your fetid ass down here and release me!” screamed the Ookami Prince, hoarsely. The dank cavernous darkness was slowly getting to Kouga, as were the chains that bound his wrists and feet against the cold slimy wall. The friction caused by the manacles had gouged deep grooves into his flesh. With each jarring pull, his wounds opened anew. Dark, thick blood trickled into his eyes as the gash across his forehead began to bleed.

 

Kouga sniffed the air, suddenly filled with trepidation. The Hanyou was coming after all. He had ignored him for days, possibly weeks for all the Wolf Prince knew. `Why now?' thought the Prince.

 

The doors opened, revealing not only light in the passage way, but a pristine white kimono and the small female who wore it. She was closely followed by a tall being of similar pallor with the notable exception of long, flowing onyx hair and eyes the color of blood. He too, wore white flowing robes.

 

“You bellowed, Ookami?” said Naraku, stepping past the expressionless female, looking about him with satisfaction.

 

“Do your quarters not meet the usual standards of your kind, Wolf? I would have thought this a welcomed respite, you being allowed to have your own dwelling, as opposed to sleeping atop one another, roiling in your own sweaty stench filled caves.”

 

Kouga growled and attempted to lunge at the pristine figure now standing before him, then spat in the Hanyou's face. Naraku's left eye twitched, then he smiled, as he raised one pale hand to his face to wipe the spittle from his cheek, examining his fingers with mild interest.

 

“And to think, I was even considering your creature comforts; tsk tsk. I actually toyed with the idea of giving you a companion for all those dark, cold, lonely nights…” said the Hanyou, who turned away from the wolf, his face returning to its cold alabaster countenance of hate. Stepping away to the far wall, the hanyou turned once more with a malevolent smile, pressing his long, angelic fingers to his lips, as though in deep contemplation. He smiled dramatically, with false sudden realization, as he chuckled.

 

“But then again… I guess to you these last few months have all seemed like cold, lonely nights. So I suppose, it really would not do to give you false hope,” said Naraku with feigned compassion.

 

Though the room remained dim, Kouga's piercing blue eyes could be seen clearly amidst his soil caked, handsome features.

 

“Naraku! Whatever sick game you're playing, I am not going to be a part of it. So kill me where I stand, take the shards; whatever. Just be done with this, because if I ever get loose, it will be yours and that bitch Kagura's end!” hissed the Prince hoarsely, fatigue, near starvation, and isolation had taken its toll. His head lulled, though his eyes remained like ice.

 

The swish of silk, and a slight wind entered the darkened chamber, “Brave words, Wolfie dear. How do you propose to get out of this little fix you're in?” chuckled Kagura.

 

Naraku turned to face her, un-amused by her unbidden entrance into his conversation.

 

“I trust, Kagura, you are here for a reason,” intoned the Hanyou dismissively.

 

The wolf Prince summoned strength to growl in menace at the female being that had been the root cause of his current incarceration, and the decimation of his pack.

 

Sensing by his tone that her existence remained on tenuous ground, Kagura spoke, while backing out of the open door with a slight bow of submission, her jaws clenched in anger.

 

“They will return shortly. I cannot find Kikyou, she seems to have disappeared entirely. The last Kohaku saw of her shinidamachi, they were headed in the general direction of the Western Shiro,” said the Wind Sorceress, looking through her bangs at the Hanyou's pleased expression with trepidation and veiled hatred.

 

“Thank you, Kagura. You have earned your reprieve this day. Keep this up and you might well live long enough to fulfill Prince Kouga's deepest desire,” hissed Naraku, well pleased with his own surmise. He was no fool and recognized betrayal in the making, regardless of how selectively the demoness fawned on any given day.

 

Turning back to the Wolf Prince, who had become unaccountably silent, and meditative, Naraku asked, “Who would you prefer to kill; me or Kagura? Better yet, what if I make a gift of her before I extract the shards from you, allowing you that final and most precious of wishes?” cackled the Hanyou, taking one pale finger and lifting Kouga's chin, to observe, with pleasure, the blinding hatred he saw within the Prince's eyes.

 

Furrowing his brows, Naraku feigned genuine puzzlement once more, leaning in to Kouga's ear to whisper. “No, that might not be your fondest wish after all. I don't believe either Kagura or I factor in your greatest dream, my dear delusional Prince. Even as we speak, your greatest desire approaches, though tainted by another's seed, but that can soon be rectified,” whispered the Hanyou with menace.

 

Kouga stirred involuntarily. He had hoped, that should the Hanyou stay close enough, he could have ripped his throat with a sudden spring.

 

Naraku smiled maliciously then, “Yes Kouga, Kagome is with pup, and all this time, you thought dog boy would be the one to steal `your woman,' intoned the half-demon with a malevolent chuckle. “I must admit, the Western Lord is a dark horse, and not quite as frigid as we all thought, by all accounts,” said Naraku. He stepped back and sniffed his kimono suspiciously.

 

The prince stared in horror, as it occurred to him, who the intended companion was…Kagome.

 

“I best change. It has been lovely catching up with you, but my guest will undoubtedly be arriving shortly, and I cannot dance attendance on the Western Lady without much more suitable attire, and perhaps a bath. Until later sweet Prince,” said the Hanyou with a bow. He exited swiftly, Kan'na following. Kagura hovered at the open door, closing it, smiling secretively to herself, as she followed her Master up the stairs to the main hall.

 

sks

 

 

"Those who have no compassion have no wisdom. Knowledge, yes; cleverness, maybe; wisdom, no. A clever mind is not a heart. Knowledge doesn't really care. Wisdom does."

 

 

Inuyasha sat on the long, thick branch looking out to sea. His brows furrowed in an unusual contemplative manner; feigning disinterest in the Priest that sat below in full lotus…waiting.

 

“I can sit here forever, Inuyasha,” said the Houshi peaceably, as the gentle breeze caressed his face into a benign smile.

 

“Yeah,” snorted the Hanyou, looking down on the dark head. “You do that. I'm not in the mood for one of your shit maxims right now. I just wanna be left alone. So go the fuck away!” snarled the half-demon, setting his jaw diffidently, returning his gaze to the sea.

 

“No, I won't. My friend, despite his inherent need to be difficult, still needs me, so I will sit here, until he comes down and tells me what is really wrong,” said the priest pleasantly, as he began to meditatively stroking his japa mala beads, his Shakujo laying across his lap.

 

Though Inuyasha was the past master of stubbornness, he knew when he was defeated.

 

Miroku, though appearing jocular, was anything but, and held a very dark side. His superficially was hidden by pleasantry and ribald commentary about all that was female and sexual.

 

Sighing, the Hanyou jumped from his perch to land in front of the Houshi. He folded his arms and glared down at the seated figure.

 

“Let's first get this straight. I didn't mean to knock you down back there,” said Inuyasha in what might have been construed as an apology, of sorts.

 

Miroku's handsome face lit up as he looked up into Inuyasha's face and bowed, returning to his calculated meditation of his beads, unaware, that Sango crouched in the bushes watching diligently for any sign of trouble. Only Inuyasha was aware of her presence, but thought better than to mention it. `It might do her good, to see this side of the lecherous freak,' thought the Hanyou, in his sudden bid to play matchmaker to his cherished, though unacknowledged friend and trusted ally.

 

sks

 

"Piglet sidled up to Pooh from behind, "Pooh!," he whispered.
"Yes, Piglet?"
"Nothing," said Piglet, taking Pooh's paw. "I just wanted to be sure of you."

 

 

The opalescent cloud slowly descended, as the Miko once more admired the breathtaking beauty below her that was the Western Lands, her home. She smiled softly, remembering the first time she had taken this fateful cumulous trip with the Taiyoukai, her darling Shippou weighing heavily in her arms, fast asleep.

 

Now instead, her trusty pack was at her feet and a new bow. She held fast to her Taiyoukai's armor. Looking up at her Mate, Kagome chuckled despite herself. They had traveled for merely two hours, but as their approach quickened, his stoic mask returned with a vengeance. His jaw line grew more rigid and his bearing even more insufferable, the minute he could spy the first tell tale white Tenshu.

 

A small, green figure stood at the gates of the shiro, along with one other, Kagome noted, the harsh lines of the Taiyoukai's features softened minutely, and she smiled up at him, receiving a quirked brow, as his eyes slid off her face blankly.

 

“Cut the crap Big Boy. You are very happy to see your little family, just as much as I will be,” said the Miko.

 

“Hnnn,” intoned the Western Lord, pulling the Miko closer. His cloud descended rapidly, hovered over the grass and dissipated, just as quickly as it had been formed.

 

Rin, true to form ran and careened into her Lord's leg, while smiling happily at Kagome's stomach, “Hello,Satori, it is nice to have you home,” she said shyly. The Miko, never at a loss for words…was, as the small Kappa demon approached with obeisant bows stuttering his greeting, unsure of his Master's reception.

 

Even from a distance, the toad youkai sensed a difference in the Western Lord, though now in close proximity, all looked very much the same. The regal figure stepped forward and glowered down at the little being, who quailed.

 

“You will gather the tachi in the study immediately Jaken, once you have taken the Western Lady's satchel and bow to our chambers” said the Taiyoukai, coldly.

 

Kagome quirked a brow, and followed the Western Lord and his ward, through the outer gates with Jaken by her side, carrying the rather heavily loaded pack. Taking pity on the tiny, tubby demon, Kagome smiled and lifted it from his shoulder effortlessly. Large bulbous eyes googled at her, then at the Western Lord, who had not missed the exchange. He\, glared at his retainer, and avoided his Mate's eyes entirely.

 

“Mama!” screamed Shippou in joy, having scented her presence long before her appearance. Kagome's heart lightened at the sight of the little fox demon, who, as was his distinctive skill, had just prevented a major contretemps between the Lady of the Western Lands and her Lord.

 

Shippou leapt into Kagome's arms, “Have you lost weight?” Kagome said worriedly, poking and prodding her de-facto son. This caused him to giggle, as she shouldered the pack effortlessly with the bow, and leveled the small demon on her right hip. She kissed his forehead soundly, effectively embarrassing the small demon, who blushed.

 

Taking the opportunity of the Miko's distracted, and to Jaken's mind, rather puerile conversation with the horrid kitsune, he waddled forward, following now two paces behind the Western Lord and his ward.

 

“What is it Jaken,” hissed the Taiyoukai. The incessant babble of his ward, who felt the need to update him on all the happenings at the shiro and the nervous twitching behind him of the little green gnome, was enough to produce an instant tension headache.

 

“Mmmyyy Lllllord, do you desire sake in the library? This worthless servant realizes it is an early hour, but perhaps, in lieu of a proper celebration,” his endless babbling was cut short, by a slight inclination of the Taiyoukai's head in affirmation. Jaken sighed in relief, Things would return to normal, now that his Master had returned, and he happily beetled off to have dominion, once more, over the kitchen staff, who would now quake at his requests, his orders once more having the force of law.

 

Sesshoumaru reached the honmaru in record time, Rin running by his side, still talking, the Taiyoukai stooped and held his ward by her shoulders, with a blank expression. He sniffed her, turned her around (twice), inspecting. Kagome and Shippou watched in horror. Only Rin remained completely undisturbed by this and giggled, seeing it as a game.

 

The taiyoukai stood, “Rin, before the mid day meal, you are to come to the study, and tell this Sesshoumaru how your lessons are progressing,” said the Taiyoukai coldly.

 

“Yes, my Lord,” Rin bowed shyly. Giggling, she ran to Kagome's side, pulling at Shippou's haori, before bowing to Kagome's midsection and smiling secretively up at the Miko.

 

“Mama, got any pokki?” said Shippou, always lead by his tum tum. Kagome reached into one of the outer pockets of her backpack and produced two.

 

“You're the best,” said Shippou, leaping out of her arms, running at top speed to catch up to Rin, who had long lost interest in the two adults.

 

Kagome came to the Taiyoukai's side, “See how much we've both been missed,” she snorted amusingly, then stopped abruptly. Her eyes made four with a less than pleased Taiyoukai, who backed the Miko into a secreted corner in the hall.

 

“Ahh Sesshoumaru, I think we should at least wait until we have reached our chambers,” whispered the Miko, not entirely clear on the concept of what his intents might have been.

 

She was soon … set straight.

 

“You will not defy your Lord in the presence of servants, EVER again,” hissed the Taiyoukai with menace. It took Kagome a second to realize, he actually was livid.

 

It took very little to get the Miko's dander up, and up it came.

 

“Not back five seconds and you start this imperious shit with me already?!” she hissed in his face, being mindful to keep her voice down, as a chamber maid passed, feigning obeisance in the presence of her Lord, and the interloper.

 

After the Miko was sure the female in question was out of earshot, she pulled back her arm, and raised it to strike the smug expression off the Taiyoukai's face. Her hand was caught mid flight, as he glowered down at her. His grip slackened, as he bowed to her, and swiftly turned and retreated. Once he had been sure she could not see, his lips quirked. She would always be entertaining, if nothing else. Such fire, such passion, would always be welcomed in their private chambers, he thought contentedly. His previous stoic countenance returned and he headed for the library with purpose.

 

“You are to follow, when you have regained some semblance of composure, Miko. Do not make this Sesshoumaru come in search of you, or you will be punished,” said the Taiyoukai, turning his head and looking into infuriated, large brown eyes. His lips twitched, as he received what Inuyasha had told him recently, was something euphemistically called `the finger,' before beating a hasty retreat. He had a shiro to attend and matters of state.

 

A being stood behind the Priestess in shadow, unobserved, just as the Miko stooped to pick up her pack and bow once more. It was the work of a moment, to place a cloth gently over her nose and mouth, and Kagome lost consciousness.

 

“Through working in harmony with life's circumstances, Taoist understanding changes what others may perceive as negative into something positive.”

 

 

sks

 

Author's Note

 

*Reverent bow* I hope you have enjoyed. Reviews are fuel.

 

EP