InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ To Bear Witness ❯ Home Sweet Home ( Chapter 19 )

{Disclaimer: See another chapter because it ain't here.}

Chapter Nineteen: Home Sweet Home

*1:00 PM, Boston Mass. Friday Afternoon*

Sesshoumaru watched Kagome's head loll for the fourth time, secretly wondering if she would fall from the seat completely this time.

They arrived in Boston but 20 minutes ago, and were on their way to his office. Kagome, the poor girl, managed to stay bright-eyed through the plane ride, but sometime between getting in the limo and now she began to wear out.

Sesshoumaru debated going home to give her a chance to rest, but concluded that if she wanted to she would have asked. She would just have to endure until 6.

Sesshoumaru had a tour planned for her as well, even though he would more likely than not have to take the same tour. His home had recently been redecorated, and he was almost sure the monthly bill said something about a new wing. Sesshoumaru shrugged, then caught Kagome as she fell completely out of her seat.

"Hehe…sorry about that," she whispered as Sesshoumaru moved her to his side. "I guess I'm a little more tired than I thought."

"Understandable." Sesshoumaru watched her as Kagome's eyelids slid closed, then as her breathing evened out before coming up with an idea to keep her awake for the rest of the trip.

"Kagome?"

"Hmm…"

"I have been practicing the levitation technique."

Kagome sat up, immediately interested as she stared up at him. "Really? How's it going?"

"Alright I suppose. I have no training in this sort of thing."

"Well let's see," Kagome urged, moving back to her seat across from him. Sesshoumaru looked around, finding nothing to levitate that wouldn't seem suspicious right at hand. He gazed at her then, eyeing the perfect French roll at the top of her head. The same tendril frequented the left side of her face. Wearing but a simple pair of tan slacks, black flats and a white button-up blouse, there really was nothing to manipulate.

'Wait a moment,' Sesshoumaru thought with a slight smile. 'There is something…'

Kagome watched him eagerly, wondering how well Sesshoumaru received her lesson when she heard something on her shirt pop. She looked down, watching as one of her buttons came a loose. She gaped at it, then at Sesshoumaru as another came undone.

"Are you doing this?"

Sesshoumaru shrugged, another button coming undone as he watched. "I hope so, but if not then I appreciate you humoring me."

Kagome scowled, quickly buttoning up her shirt as she glared at him. "You're a fast learner Mr. Takamada."

"Thank you."

"Mr. Takamada?" the driver called. "We're here."

"Good," Sesshoumaru reached on the back seat for his briefcase and stepped out when the car stopped. He offered his hand to Kagome, patiently waiting for her to gather her things before stepping out as well.

"Wow," she whispered, her head tilted back as she stared at the office building in wonder. Many small office buildings sat around one tall one in a semi-circle, each connecting itself to it by means of covered walkways. The entire structure was made of bottle green glass.

Kagome followed Sesshoumaru inside, barely aware of her hand in his as she stared at her surroundings. Everything seemed to be in some shade of green or another, the walls painted a creamy white. They walked past the lobby secretary's desk for the elevator.

"What do you think?" Sesshoumaru asked after they boarded and pushed the button for the top floor.

"It's beautiful," she whispered, staring out the window to the street below.

Sesshoumaru leaned against the wall, watching her as she marveled things he normally took for granted. "It is, isn't it?" Kagome turned to him, a light blush staining her cheeks from his innuendo. "Do you know where we are Kagome?"

Kagome nodded. "We're at the home office."

"And what makes you think that?"

Kagome grinned knowingly. "Because of the name of this branch."

Sesshoumaru quirked a brow. "What's the name of it?"

"The Emerald City."

Sesshoumaru nodded, but feigned confusion. "That's true, but what makes you think this is the main branch?"

Kagome turned back to the window, watching once again as the elevator made it's slow assent to the top floor. "Dorothy and her friends were told that if they needed help, to go see the Great Wizard, the wisest man in the land. He resided at the highest tower inside the Emerald City. Your offices are always at the top of your branches. In a way, you're the Great Wizard."

Sesshoumaru smirked but a moment, but that brief time was enough to affirm her suspicions. The elevator stopped and he and Kagome stepped out. This floor resembled the others in the other branches, with a secretary at the beginning of the hallway and Sesshoumaru's office at the end.

"Hello CiCi," Sesshoumaru called to the young woman behind the massive desk. "Any new messages?"

"No sir Mr. Takamada."

"CiCi, this is Kagome. If she needs anything, I'm sure you'll be the first to help her."

The young woman nodded. "Of course. Hi Kagome."

"Hi." Kagome waved as Sesshoumaru lead her to his office. He unlocked the doors and entered, motioning for Kagome to follow. Kagome again stood still at the simple elegance of his offices. Each seemed the same, with the same black and white themes, but in this office white seemed to be winning.

The chairs, the carpet, everything was white except for Sesshoumaru's immediate area. The desk was large, made once again of mahogany, with the perfect view of the city behind it. Kagome stepped to the window as Sesshoumaru motioned toward a nearby door.

"There is the break room. On the other side is the restroom." He sat down, turned on his computer and began typing. Kagome sighed, her forehead resting against the window.

"Kagome?"

"Yes Mr. Takamada?"

"A cup of coffee if you please."

Kagome stared at him from over her shoulder, wondering if the second head he just grew could sing as well as dance. "What? I thought you didn't drink coffee."

"It's not for me. It's for you."

Kagome growled lightly, an ugly habit she picked up from Sesshoumaru as she walked to the break room.

*7:00 PM, Outside Boston city limits*

Kagome glanced out the window at the passing scenery. Sesshoumaru sat across from her, steadily typing on his laptop, the constant clicking permeating the air. 'Like usual,' Kagome mused, stealing a glance at her companion. His eyes were focused on the screen before him, seemingly unaware of anyone watching him. Kagome turned back to the window, watching the endless rolls of grassy hills,

'I never knew there was so much…country outside of Boston. I wonder if he lives out here somewhere.' Kagome huffed. 'Of course he does. He's a loner. Aside from Rin and Inuyasha, no one is really close to him.' Kagome sighed wistfully. 'It must be rather lonely.'

"Is something troubling you?"

Kagome blinked, then turned toward Sesshoumaru and smiled. "Oh, nothing. Sorry about that."

Sesshoumaru closed the laptop, saving the stock report for another day as he turned his attentions to his favorite fascination. "I don't believe you."

"I'm just wondering what you're home looks like." 'Well, that's not exactly a lie,' Kagome told herself as Sesshoumaru looked out the window.

"I don't know."

"Huh?" 'Did he just say he didn't know?' "Why wouldn't you know?"

"It was recently redecorated. I would be surprised if the front door was in the same place."

"Oh." 'OK,' Kagome thought as she turned back to the window. 'There went small talk.' The driver turned the car onto a lone dirt road with tall willow trees canopying both sides. Kagome gazed out through the sunroof, watching as the sunlight peered and danced between the branches.

They finally pulled to a stop at a black wrought-iron gate. Sesshoumaru reached inside an armrest and pressed a button. The gates parted soundlessly, much to Kagome's surprise. The driver continued down the road, this time paved in gray stones. The willows once again adorned the roadside, parting ways at the circle at the head of the pathway.

A fountain stood in the middle of the driveway, encircled with white flowers. The fountain was rather simple, as if made of the same gray stones as the driveway. Water flowed from the edge of the fountain from inside a carafe in the hands of a little girl statue. She smiled pleasantly at the water, seeming to watch it in approval. The driver circled the fountain once before parking.

Sesshoumaru stepped out, once again followed by Kagome before the driver pulled away. Kagome stared in open mouthed awe as Sesshoumaru climbed the creamy marble steps to the front door. The mansion, for there really was nothing else to call it, was painted the same creamy vanilla that frequented the marble at her feet.

Sesshoumaru handed her his briefcase, motioning for her to hold it up as he dug around inside for his keys. Kagome glanced in amazement at the roman columns around her, then at the double doors. Made of simple pine, the most breathtaking thing about them were the stain glass windowpanes. They were as large as the doors themselves, with the wood only serving as a border.

The door on the left was of a large white dog bounding across a dark sky, looking as if it would escape from it's glass prison and devour her whole. On the right stood what she could only describe as a miko like herself, dressed in red hakamas and a white haori. The bow she held was as tall as she, with a single glowing arrow taunt in the string. Lightening lit up the scenery behind her, and for an instant she thought she saw a small inu hanyou behind the dog.

"It's…amazing."

Sesshoumaru blinked, his keys temporarily forgotten as he stared at her. Kagome stared to the side at the doors, and he too turned his attentions to the entryway. He found himself agreeing with Kagome, the scene the two windowpanes bringing back intense memories for him. This one scene in particular he relayed to the glassmaker himself, sparing no detail as he described what he wanted.

"Here they are!" Sesshoumaru growled as he grabbed his keys. He closed his briefcase before turning to open the doors. He and Kagome walked inside, and once again Kagome was rendered speechless. Before her stood a great hall, with a pair of stairs facing away from each other. A deep purple runner cascaded down the steps to the front door, coming to a stop before Kagome's feet. Gold plated railings adorned the steps up to what looked like a landing and another stained glass window. Between the steps was a black Grand piano.

Sesshoumaru pressed a button on the wall unnoticed, then waited patiently. He didn't wait long, as two men walked into the room and bowed before him.

"Welcome home…"

"…Sesshoumaru-sama," they said. They then turned to Kagome, giving her a bow as well. Kagome bowed back, unused to this after being away from Japan for so long. She then turned her gaze to them as Sesshoumaru questioned them on the state of his home.

They were twins, that she could easily see, with jet black hair cut to above eye level. A single white lock draped over opposite sides of their faces, but other than that they looked the same. They were even dressed alike, with white shirts and khaki pants.

"This is Marshal Kagome Higurashi," Sesshoumaru informed them, effectively snapping Kagome out of her thoughts. "She is to stay here for the duration."

They turned to her and smiled, bowing once again. "Hello Lady Kagome," the one on the left said.

"Hello." Kagome replied. "Who are you, if I may ask?"

"I am Ah…" said the one on the left.

"…and I am Un," said the one on the right. As Kagome wondered how she would tell them apart, her answer came in their eyes. Each had a single brown eye and a single green eye. Where Ah's right eye was green and his left eye was brown, Un's eyes were opposite. Standing shoulder to shoulder as they did now gave Kagome an eerie impression, like staring at a creature with two heads.

"Ah will give you a tour of the house," Sesshoumaru told her. "I have a few things to discuss with Un."

"Alright," Kagome said as Ah lead her away. "But what if I need to speak to you?"

"Then Ah knows how to find me."

Kagome nodded as Ah lead her into a nearby hallway, leaving Un and Sesshoumaru to themselves. Sesshoumaru quickly turned and walked up the stairs, Un right behind him as he asked rapid fire questions about house matters. Sesshoumaru turned on the landing, ascending a second flight of steps before turning left and walking down a vast hallway. He stopped at the door at the end of it, opening it quickly.

Sesshoumaru stood for a moment, taking the time to absorb what had been done to his chambers in his absence. There was no carpet in his room, only polished wooden floor with black themed oriental rugs scattered about. There was a fireplace in the wall on the far left, with his bed in the middle of the room. Slate gray and black sheets were draped over his bed, with matching curtains leading to his balcony doors. He glanced around once more, this time with relief as he spied his old curio cabinet before crossing the room and flinging open the balcony doors. Un leaned against the doorframe attentively as Sesshoumaru surveyed his lands.

"Which of the guest rooms would you like the lady to sleep in, my lord?" Un asked, breaking the silence.

"In the room next to mine."

Un contained a gasp, but his surprise was evident in his voice. "But my lord, isn't that room reserved for your mate?"

"That is where I want her Un. No questions." Sesshoumaru lightly grasped the railing, glancing down at the gardens below him. "Do not call me lord in her presence."

"Alright my lord," Un replied.

"Inform Ah of this change immediately." Sesshoumaru turned to Un then, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he asked "And the lady's luggage?"

"Taken care of, as you requested."

Sesshoumaru nodded his head. "Good." Un answered a knock on the bedroom door, opening it and helping one of the servants bring Sesshoumaru's bags inside. Sesshoumaru walked past them to the bathroom, wanting to see it as well. The bathroom was the way he left it, with the corner shower on the right side of the room, the whirlpool tub on the left side and everything else to his likings. He nodded once again as Un excused the servant.

"You may go now. Assist Ah in Kagome's tour."

"Yes my lord," Un replied before leaving. Sesshoumaru hefted one of his suitcases to his bed, then started to unpack.

*

Kagome followed Ah quietly as he lead her from the front room to a hallway on her left.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you Lady Kagome," Ah said. Kagome blushed. "What do you mean by 'finally'?"

"We have heard a lot about you, from Lady Rin and-" here he stopped, seemingly to think about something before nodding. "and Takamada-sama. They both hold you in high regard."

Kagome stood back as Ah opened a door at the beginning of the hallway. "I'm surprised. Rin hasn't had time to know me."

"But Lady Rin is a good judge of character." Ah held the door open as Kagome stepped through, then lead her down a flight of stairs. "This is the first room on your tour. The house itself isn't as big as you think it is, and it's not hard to navigate once you get your bearings. " He opened another door at the base of the steps. "This is the game room."

Kagome stepped inside, her eyes wide as she surveyed her surroundings. 'This place is huge!' she thought as she stood beside the door. From where she stood she could see everything in the room, including the arcade games at the back wall, the bar on her right and the pool table on her left. The entire room was decorated in tans and whites, with a shaggy carpet and soft walls.

"The arcade games are some of Lady Rin's favorites," Ah said as Kagome ventured fort. She went to the games first, nodding in approval at some of the names. 'Tekken, Mortal Kombats I through III, Knockout Kings I, not bad. Not bad at all.' She moved away from them to the pool table, then closer to the door as Ah stood beside the bar.

"This room was Hitame-sama's favorite when he resided here," Ah explained as Kagome's hand ran along one of the many pool cubes mounted on the wall. "His game was pool. He's a regular shark."

"Wow, wish I'd known," Kagome muttered. "Miroku would have given him a run for his money."

"When Lady Rin is here this is where she comes to relax as well."

Kagome nodded as she noticed a pair of recliners in a corner of the room. She approached them, taking note that they faced each other as she finally saw what was between them.

"Ooooooo!" she gasped as she sank into one of the chairs. Ah sat down in the other, smiling as Kagome gazed at the chess set.

"This is Takamada-sama's favorite."

Kagome nodded, taking in the beauty of the board game. The playing field itself was made of black and white checkerboard marble, with glass pieces. The board pieces resembled cats and dogs, with cats on one side and dogs on the right.

The cats' side had regular house cats for pawns, panthers for bishops, mountain lions for knights, and lions for rooks. The king and queen appeared human, but had fluffy round ears on top of their heads and thin tails wrapped around their waists. The king was dressed in a black gi with a silver sash around his waist. The queen was dressed in a black kimono with silver Stars of David imprinted on it.

The dogs were the same way, with golden retrievers as pawns, wolves as knights, dingos as bishops, and Great Danes as Rooks. The king and queen had no ears on top of their heads like the cats, but their fluffy tails wrapped around their shoulders like a shawl. The king was dressed in a white gi with a golden sash, and the queen wore a white kimono with golden suns imprinted on it.

Kagome gaped in amazement as she picked up the dog's queen, marveling at the craftsmanship of the tiny piece. "It's beautiful. I didn't know Takamada knew so much about youkai."

"Youkai?"

Kagome nodded. "Yeah. I've taught him a little about them since working for him, since there are some chasing him, but this is amazing."

Kagome set the figurine down as Ah stood up. He walked to the back of the room, motioning to another door on the opposite end.

"That door leads to the outside," he told her as he opened one of the inner doors. He lead Kagome up another flight of stairs, then opened the door and lead her into another room. "This is the kitchen," he said with a sweep of his hand. "Dinner is served at 7:00 6 days a week. The chef is off on Saturdays, but myself or Un would be more than happy to prepare anything you desire."

"That's not necessary," Kagome told him. "I'm sure I won't get lost in here."

"I'm sure of that as well."

Kagome touched the granite counter covering the island in the middle of the room, finding the stone cool to the touch. The stove was on the other side in front of her, with the refrigerator beside her on a far wall.

"I hear you can cook," Ah said, breaking the silence. Kagome blushed. "Just a little."

"That's not what I heard," Un said as he walked in. "I hear you've missed you're true calling." He smiled at Kagome's blush. "Alright you two, come on," he jeered good naturedly as he lead the way down the hall. Un tapped a door as they walked past it, bringing it to Kagome's attention. "This is a half bath. There is another one on this floor as well."

They continued to walk until they came to another doorway. "This is the dining room."

Kagome poked her head in, glancing at the chandeliers that hung from the ceiling above an enormous table in the center of the room. Kagome only counted twenty of the many chairs before Ah and Un lead her away.

"That room is used for banquets and the like. Takamada-sama normally eats in the kitchen," Ah said as they stopped at another door. "This is the ballroom," Un announced as they stepped inside the room.

Kagome looked around her, wondering how in the world a room so big could fit inside the house. The ceiling dripped with crystal chandeliers, the sparkling reflecting on the floor at her feet. Her heels clicked on the hardwood floor as she walked, the noise echoing on the walls around her. A platform for musicians stood in the back corner of the room, beside a pair of French doors. The windows reached from the floor to the ceiling with midnight purple curtains held back with golden tassels. The only window not curtained was in the very center of the 9.

"This window," Ah told her as Un started for the hallway, "Is unfinished. Takamada-sama hasn't decided on what to put there."

"He draws the pictures for the stained glass and gives it to the glass company, " Un said as they resumed down the hallway. "They deliver and install the window two weeks later."

Kagome nodded as they turned left, immediately stopping at one of the three doors on the hallway. "This is Takamada-sama's office." Ah said as he tapped on the door. "If you can't find him anywhere else, you can find him here."

Uh and Ah lead the way into the second room, leaving Kagome in the doorway as they each stepped to opposite corners on the other side of the wall.

"This is the living room," Ah said. Kagome nodded as she looked around. Across the room from her was a large wall fireplace with a limestone mantel. A window was on either side of it, with ivory curtains and golden tassels. A sofa faced the right side wall. In front of it was a small shelf with two tall shelves beside it.

"Here is the TV," Un said as he pushed a button on the side of the wall. A section opened up to reveal a wide screen TV above the short shelf.

"This cabinet" Ah said, motioning to the tall cabinet on the TV's left. "Has video games."

"This cabinet," Uh replied next, motioning to the tall shelf on the right. "Has DVDs."

"Here are the VCR, DVD player and game systems." Ah concluded as he tapped the short shelf under the TV. He crossed the room for a closet on the left wall behind the couch. "Here are extra blankets, just in case you need one."

Ah and Un left the room, motioning once again for Kagome to follow them as they opened the last door on the hallway.

"Here is the main study."

Kagome peered inside, glancing at the typical office equipment before following her guides around the corner once again. Ah stopped before the first door, standing in front of it as Un explained what it was.

"This is the servants' quarters."

Kagome gasped. "You mean you two and everyone else here stays in there? That can't be enough room."

Un laughed softly, shaking his head. "No, you misunderstood. This is the way to the servants' quarters."

"I don't understand."

Uh nodded expectantly. "I thought you wouldn't. It is rather confusing. You see, there are 4 floors to this house, not including the game room. The first level is this one, the second level is bedrooms for the family, the third floor is the servants' quarters, and the fourth is the attic. There are pathways in the walls that lead to almost every room in the house."

"Almost?"

Uh nodded. "Yes. The master suites are the only ones without the corridors."

Ah nodded and walked down the hallway, leaving Kagome and Un to catch up. He stopped before another door, opening it as he said, "Here, Lady Kagome, is where I believe you'll be the most interested."

Kagome stepped inside, awed by the expansive dojo before her. Shaped like a hexagon, the walls on the left and right sides were mirrored. The wall across from her held nothing but another door, but the wall behind her had three swords and a bow.

Two swords crossed over each other, with a third sword implanted between them in a makeshift shield. The bow hung from a nail beside them. Kagome picked it up, testing the string as she examined the bow itself.

'Wow,' she thought as she held it out in front of her. 'It's old, really old, but still in good condition. I wonder where Takamada got it from.'

"It seems like Hitame-san's mother's bow is a tad too large for you."

Kagome smiled at them, then at the bow itself. It was kind of large, only an inch shorter than she was. "I think I can manage it," Kagome told Ah and Un as she tested the string again.

"Of course you can," Ah assured her as he walked the padded floor to the other door. "If you'll come this way."

Kagome did so, taking the bow with her. When Un shot her a questioning look, she shrugged. "I don't know why I have it. I just feel like it likes me, you know?"

Un nodded sagely as they both left the room to a target field outside. There were 12 targets, all fenced in from the rest of the grounds.

"I take it Takamada doesn't practice archery," Kagome guessed as she stepped in front of one of the targets.

"He does, but not often. What makes you think that he doesn't?"

"This bow is old, but I just don't think he used it. I don't catch his aura on it."

"He doesn't. Um, Lady Kagome," Ah called out as Kagome positioned herself and the bow for a shot. "Don't you need arrows for that?"

Kagome shook her head, going through the motions of reaching behind her for an arrow, nocking it and releasing it from the bow. All was silent for a moment, then a large poof as the target exploded, sawdust flying everywhere as Kagome grinned. She turned to Ah and Un, stifling a giggle at their startled expressions.

"Hey guys, if you keep that up, a fly is going to find it's way to your stomachs."

They closed their mouths, gawking at Kagome as she turned toward another target.

"How did you do that?" Ah asked. Kagome smiled, reaching behind her again. This time she pulled an arrow from thin air, nocked it and released it, the arrow flying through the air in a comet-like streak. Another poof and another target was decimated. Ah and Un stood completely still, the answer to Ah's question finally answered as Kagome smiled at them.

"I'm a miko. We can do that kind of thing." She pointed toward the sky, reaching for another invisible arrow before glancing at Ah and Un. "Watch this." She released it, the arrow flying unseen into the sky. A minute later it exploded, raining down starlight drops of pink energy. Ah and Un froze, expecting any moment to become nothing but ash as the twinkling bits of energy settled on their forms.

The pink ki settled on them, covering them in sparkling, laughing bits of delightful energy. They opened their eyes at the sensation, not expecting purification to feel so good. They glanced each other over, then deciding that they wouldn't explode in a pile of ryuu guts as they smiled at each other. They turned to Kagome, who was giggling at them as the energy caught in her hair.

"It doesn't hurt you guys," she told them. "That was my healing energy. It's supposed to make you feel better, not scare you. Besides, you two don't have a thing to worry about. You're not youkai."

Ah and Un just stared for a moment before deciding to shrug it off and continue the tour. "That I'm sure is most helpful," Ah said as Un lead them out of the target field.

"It is," Kagome told them. "There's been at least a few dozen times where I've used that on Takamada. He seems to think it's funny for some reason."

Ah nodded, a stunned expression on his face as Un stopped before a small cottage. "This is the wine cellar."

They moved on without looking in to another building with a swimming pool much like the one in Jacksonville, without the tube that lead to another pool. The inside looked as if to serve as a greenhouse as well, with many exotic plants growing in window boxes along the walls. After locating the garage and the garden, the little group found themselves back inside the main entrance.

"Well Lady Kagome, any questions?"

"What's the security around here?" Kagome started. Ah pointed to a white panel on the wall. "This is linked to the front gates and sensors scattered over the grounds. The little button on the face of it is a pager for us. Just push it anytime and one of us will be here on the double."

"Alright. Are there any house rules?"

"Just a few," Un replied. "One: Never enter the servants' quarters without permission. Two: Food is allowed everywhere but the bedrooms and the studies. Three: If you use the dojo, be sure to clean up after yourself. The servants aren't allowed in there."

"But you two are?"

Un nodded, then turned to open the door for the limo driver. He stumbled inside, carrying a few of Sesshoumaru's suitcases. "Set them here," Un instructed as Ah walked outside. He came back moments later, holding Kagome's attaché and red train case. The driver appeared next with a matching suitcase and left. After a few more trips, and a few more loads of Sesshoumaru's luggage, the driver leaned against the wall and sighed.

"Whew. That's the last of them."

Kagome glanced around, then shook her head. "That can't be right. I only have three of my things."

The driver shrugged. "That's all there was at the loading dock."

Kagome sat down on top of her suitcase, shaking her head fiercely as her voice started to rise. "There were at least 6 other bags with this! You mean to tell me that you didn't see them?!!!"

The driver shook his head, watching as a purple glow surrounded the marshal. "Y-yes, I mean no! I didn't see them! I picked up what I did!" He shuddered under the tenseness of it all as Un and Ah attempted to calm Kagome down.

"I'm sure they're still at the airport!" Ah told her, watching as the purple became laced with white hot ki. "He didn't do it on purpose!" Un nodded eagerly, thinking to himself 'Perhaps Lord Sesshoumaru's idea wasn't the best one. I wonder if you die before the pain or after when you're purified?'

Kagome blinked, then took a deep breath. The energy swirled back inside her, replaced by a warm pink that washed over the driver the moment she touched him. He relaxed, his shortened breathed evening out as Kagome smiled at him. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to loose my temper. You didn't do it on purpose." She turned away, never seeing the relived look on his face nor in his eyes as she plunked down on the floor.

"What am I going to do about this?"

"About what?" Sesshoumaru asked as he came down the steps. He sensed Kagome's power surge in his room, and decided to come down and investigate. "What is the matter?"

"I just scared the daylights out of your driver for one," Kagome said as she looked up at him. He stood directly in front of her, glaring at the driver. "What did he do?"

"Nothing really. It's just that only two of my bags and my attaché came with us. The rest are lost."

"Oh."

Kagome nodded. "Oh is right. I have nothing to wear, and no weapons. What am I going to do?"

Sesshoumaru glanced down at her, curiosity sparkling behind his eyes as he asked "Weapons? I don't understand."

Kagome sighed. "The duffle bag had my .38, .45, and both the double and single barrel shotguns."

"Oh." Sesshoumaru turned away, mentally wondering how he missed that bag. "But what's inside these," he asked, pointing to the rest of her stuff.

Kagome sighed. "Oh, you know. The laptop, shades and stuff are inside the attaché, toiletries are inside the train case, and books are inside the one I'm sitting on."

"Books?" Sesshoumaru questioned, eyeing the rather large suitcase. "You need that many books?"

"Those are books Grandpa sent me on my miko abilities. They're about 4 years worth of missed studies. I'm glad they didn't get lost. Some of them are at least 430 years old. I'm still stuck though." Kagome shook her head, willing herself not to laugh at her bad luck. "I guess I'll just get Sango to Fed-X me some stuff."

"But what will you do tonight?"

Kagome shrugged. "I don't know. I don't suppose anyone has any old clothes I can wear?"

Un nodded as Ah ascended the steps. "I'm sure Lady Rin has something extra still here. If you'd come with me so I can show you you're room."

Kagome nodded, grabbing her things and following Ah up the stairs. She and Ah had a brief argument about him carrying her stuff, but it was soon settled when Ah agreed to let her carry two of the three bags, leaving him with the suitcase full of books.

Sesshoumaru watched them as they disappeared up the steps, smirking as she paused at the window at the landing. It was another stained glass window, this one of the white dog on the front doors by itself, baying at the moon above. He could sense her amazement before she ran to catch up with Ah.

"Well my lord," Un said, wiping his brow. "I thought the risk of being purified died about 200 years ago. That was scary."

"I'm sure it was," Sesshoumaru muttered, thinking of something entirely different. The driver glanced from him to Un, finally deciding to dismiss himself as Sesshoumaru tapped his chin.

"She's very powerful, my lord. Even more so than the miko that carried the Shikon no Tama."

Sesshoumaru nodded curtly. "I would have nothing less." He smiled suddenly, an evil glint in his eye as he turned to Un. "What size do you think the lady wears?"

"Um, " Un scratched his forehead thoughtfully, the white tuff of hair flipping this way and that as he thought about the question. "Lady Rin wears a 4. She seems to be smaller."

"I agree. About two sizes. Do you agree?"

Un nodded. "Of course. But what if other measurements?"

Sesshoumaru's smile widened, the look of the devil crossing his features. "That is where you come in."

Un mentally sighed, but nodded and proceeded to Kagome's room. It seemed to be in the cards for him to be purified today, he just knew it.

*

Kagome followed Ah to the last room on the left hallway, then watched as he opened the door beside it. "This is your room, Lady Kagome."

Kagome walked in, dropping her stuff in the chair by the door as she gaped at the room. Decorated in sapphire blues, ruby reds and buttery whites, the room seemed deemed for a queen instead. Blue-based oriental rugs were scattered on the floor, with an armoire on either of the left and right side walls. The bed itself was red with white sheets.

Ah motioned to the left side of the room. "The door nearest us is your closet and the other door leads to Takamada-sama's chambers. The door on the right is the bathroom. If you would, when you take a shower leave your clothes in the floor so they may be washed."

Kagome nodded, sitting down on the bed as she gaped at the room around her. Ah smiled at her, instantly growing a fondness for her. 'I hope Lord Sesshoumaru's plan works. I think it would be so good to have her here.' "Is there anything you need Lady Kagome?"

Kagome shook her head, then called to him as he turned to leave. "Ah!"

"Yes my lady?"

"Could you and Un not call me that?" she requested with a blush. "Do you mind? You won't get in trouble, will you?"

Ah shook his head, mentally relaying the new information and the conversation to Un. "Of course not. It is as you wish."

Kagome smiled, a genuine gesture that seemed to light up the room. "Thanks."

Ah nodded as he closed her door, feeling his brother's newfound sense of fondness for the woman before making his way to Sesshoumaru.

*1:00 am, Sesshoumaru's Room*

"I'm going to kill her if she doesn't stop that bloody pacing, mine or not."

Sesshoumaru sighed, glaring at the ceiling as the gentle padding of Kagome's feet once again passed the door that connected their rooms. He growled lightly, then sat up and decided to investigate.

He opened the door just as Kagome turned her back, giving him a moment to observe her. She tugged at her ponytail nervously, the sleeve of one of his best dress shirts sliding down her arm. The white shirt seemed to glow in the dark room, the moonlight shining off it and Kagome's hair. Kagome seemed to be deep in thought, and muttering something. She turned around, giving a faint squeak as she nearly ran into Sesshoumaru.

Sesshoumaru leaned against the doorframe, his head lulling to the side as he glared down at her.

"Why are you pacing?" he asked, watching as a faint blush brushed her cheek. Kagome sat down on the edge of the bed, patting the area beside her. Sesshoumaru sat down, waiting patiently for whatever was stressing her.

Kagome raised her left sleeve, revealing her sheath with her throwing daggers. "This, and the one strapped to my thigh-"

"There's one on your thigh?" Sesshoumaru asked, suddenly interested in getting a closer look at the daggers. Kagome nodded. "Yes, it's like a garter. Anyway, before you get any ideas, these are the only weapons I have. It's kinda unnerving."

"And that's why you can't sleep?"

Kagome nodded. "I'm not used to sleeping without something."

Sesshoumaru glanced out the window, seeming to consider something before grabbing her hand and leading Kagome out of her room.

"Where are we going?" Kagome asked as they descended the first flight of stairs. Sesshoumaru navigated easily through the dark house like a candle, the only parts of him visible to Kagome were his white silk boxers and his hair as they shone with the moonlight. Sesshoumaru turned to the right, passing two doors as he made his way to the dojo.

He flipped on the lights, turning as soon as his feet touched the padding. He walked to the swords mounted on the wall, pulling Kagome to stand in front of him. He held her in front of him for a moment, his chin resting on her head as he pressed her closer to his chest. Kagome watched as he raised her hand toward the top sword, her eyes sliding shut as his warmth flooded through her as their hands wrapped around the hilt. Sesshoumaru pulled up, bringing her hand and the sword with him, then pressed inward.

A section of the wall slid away, revealing a numbered keypad. Sesshoumaru once again guided Kagome's fingers through the code, his hand wrapped around hers as he guided her index finger to the correct numbers.

"0...5...8...5" he whispered seductively; secretly pleased at the way her body responded, her slight arousal mingling in with her normal scent. He smiled, his head resting on Kagome's shoulder as they pressed enter. The keypad blinked green, and then it too slid away to reveal a gun closet. Kagome stared at the weaponry, including the old rifle in the corner.

"Is that?" she asked as she pointed to it, never thinking to walk toward it as Sesshoumaru draped his arms around her waist.

"Yes?"

"Is that a Russian rifle?" she asked meekly. "Made in 1805?"

"It is," he told her, nodding in approval. "Now, do you remember how to get here?"

Kagome nodded. "Raise the sword up, then in. Punch in the numbers 0585. What is that anyway?"

"Rin's birthday."

"I get it. The month and year, right?"

"Right once again. One way to remember it is to remember that Rin loves flowers."

"And April showers make May flowers."

Sesshoumaru nodded once again, then pushed a button on the doorframe. The room instantly closed up and Sesshoumaru lead Kagome out of the room.

Kagome tried to adjust to the lack of light, wondering to herself how Sesshoumaru managed as they came to the stairs. She tripped over one of the steps, Sesshoumaru catching her before she could fall back to the floor below.

"Perhaps I should carry you the rest of the way."

Kagome shook her head. "No, that's alr-" but by this time Sesshoumaru deemed his idea sound. He picked her up swiftly, holding her against his chest as he made his way up the rest of the stairs and to her room without injury. He stepped inside quickly, shutting her door before looking down at her.

"We're here," he told her. "But I guess you already knew that."

Silence.

"Kagome?" He looked down, finding Kagome asleep in his arms with her arms folded over her chest. She sighed happily in her slumber, a small smile creeping on her lips. Sesshoumaru bit back a chuckle as he tucked her in. He kneeled by her bedside, brushing a stray lock from her face as he gazed down at her.

"You'll be happy here, my pet," he whispered as he kissed her forehead. "You'll see. I won't let anyone hurt what is mine."

'But not for the reasons I think.'

*8:30 am Saturday, Kagome's Room*

Kagome bolted up, her hair matted to her face as she tried to calm her breathing. The short, terrified pants gave way to her normal breathing as she raised a hand to her heart. 'That dream', she cursed, swinging her legs over the edge of the bed.

'But…it's different. He was different. He seemed scared this time, and worried.' She stumbled into the bathroom, turned on the sink's faucet and washed her face. 'But the odd thing was…he seemed worried about me.' Kagome dried her face with a nearby towel, wondering her mental state as a knock sounded on her door.

"Yes?"

"Lady-I mean, Kagome. It is Ah." Kagome smiled, opening the door and stepping to the side so Ah could come in. "Are you alright?" he asked her, taking in the lingering fear and despair in her scent.

Kagome nodded, attempting to smooth back her hair. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just a stupid dream."

"Want to talk about it?"

Kagome shook her head. "Nope. I'm rather stuck on the idea that it'll go away."

Ah sat down on the footstool at the foot of the bed, staring up at her in concern. "How long have you had it?"

Kagome counted on her fingers, her eyes upturned. "It'll be four months tomorrow."

Ah stood up, his fist to his chin as he considered what she said. "Perhaps you should talk to someone about it. A lot of times these kinds of dreams are trying to tell us something."

Kagome nodded. "Yeah, well, I doubt this one is. It deals with the impossible."

"Nothing is impossible, just improbable."

"OK then, it's improvable. Now what can I do you for?"

Ah blinked, a tad confused at the statement. Kagome giggled. "Sorry about that. It's something the other marshals and I say. What can I do for you?"

Ah opened her room door, motioning for her to follow him. "Takamada-sama requests you come down to the living room."

"Alright." Kagome jogged beside him, her bare feet making a padding sound on the polished wooden floor.

Kagome stopped at the living room door, Ah screeching to a halt as Kagome gaped at the room. "What in the hell happened here?" she wondered as she stared at the mountains of boxes in front of her. They were all of various sizes and colors, with each separated by color. Ah grabbed her hand and lead her to the sofa, glancing up as Sesshoumaru and Un came into the room.

"What's all this?" Kagome asked as she picked up a box and shook it. "It looks like Toys for Tots in this place."

"Actually, I decided to order you a few things," Sesshoumaru said as he ripped the invoice off one of the boxes. Kagome gaped at him, then at the boxes around them. "You're telling me that everything here is mine?!"

"If you so choose it to be," he told her as he sat down. "I'm sure that there will be some things you won't like. I'm not used to picking out women's clothing."

Kagome shook her head as Ah handed her a box. "I don't think this is-YOU ORDERED UNDERWEAR TOO?!!!"

Sesshoumaru peered into the box, nodding in approval and confirmation. "You are without them, correct?"

"Yeah but-"

"I took the time last night to do a little on-line shopping. Take your time to decide, and Ah will take your choices to your room."

"I can't accept this Mr. Takamada," Kagome told him as she handed the box to him.

"Why not?"

"It's too much. I haven't done a thing to deserve it."

Sesshoumaru slid over, draped his arm on the sofa behind her as he motioned for her to take the box back. When she didn't, Sesshoumaru prepared himself for another battle of wills. "I say different. You have stayed by my side for four months, protected me from many dangers, and managed to provide some entertainment while doing so. Take it."

"No." Kagome glared up at him, her temper flaring at the 'entertainment' part of his comment. "I can't. I don't want people thinking I did something other than protect you to get this, nor do I want it to be expected for me to do anything else in return."

It was Sesshoumaru's turn to become angry, his temper flaring even as his mind whirled about a way to reprimand her without hurting her. He stood up suddenly, then tossed the box at her feet.

"I never expected, nor did I ever expect, for you to do anything 'extra' for this. It is good to know you think so lowly of me, though I think so highly of you." He turned and left, leaving Kagome, Ah and Un stunned.

Kagome finally picked the box up, returning the spilled bra and panty set to their proper place. "Wow, how rude," she grumbled. Ah and Un narrowed their eyes at her, immediately catching her attention.

"What?"

"You are right Kagome. That was rude, but it wasn't on Takamada-sama's part."

Kagome glared at the both of them, her temper flaring once again. "Are you saying it's MY FAULT he left like a four year old?!!!"

Ah shook his head, motioning for Un to let him handle things as he answered Kagome's question. "I am not saying that in the least. What we are saying is that Takamada-sama is not one to extend such charity lightly-"

"And for you to decline it is an insult in itself," Un said, ignoring Ah. "But for you to imply that he had an ulterior motive for his generosity-"

"Was a slap in the face," Ah finished, glaring at Un over Kagome's head. "Takamada-sama, as I have already told you, holds you in high regard."

"He is a man of honor, and would not think the thoughts you just accused him of," Un interrupted. Kagome hung her head as the two siblings held a mental war. Ah finally sighed as Un scowled, patting Kagome's shoulder.

"He meant what he said. He really does think highly of you. He thinks of you as a friend, if I do so say, and that is why he's so willing to do this."

Kagome sighed, guilt washing over her as she considered the twins' words. 'They're right. I'm such a jerk.'

Ah smiled as Kagome lightly smacked her forehead. "I'm such an idiot."

"Perhaps you should try to find him," Ah suggested, he and Un helping her to stand. Kagome walked to the door, then glanced back at them.

"Are you guys sure about this?"

Ah nodded as Un waved. "Yes. He's very forgiving."

Kagome waved back uncertainly, finally walking out of the room. Un sighed as Ah sat down. "Either he will forgive her, or he will rip her to shreds."

Un shook his head, then grinned as he pulled out $10. "How much do you want to bet that he rips her?"

"I have $50."

"Then $50 it is! If he does, you owe me!"

Ah smiled, thumping his money on the couch. 'This should be interesting,' he mused as Un dropped his money as well.

*

Kagome walked down the steps, muttering as she passed the window. 'Where is he?' she wondered. 'I've tried the dojo, the ballroom, and his room but I still can't find him.' She stopped at the base of the steps, recalling what Ah said to her yesterday.

"If you can't find him anywhere else, you can find him here."

Kagome smiled, her feet making their way to Sesshoumaru's office. She listened at the door a moment, the soft sound of keys clicking affirming his position.

"Mr. Takamada?" Kagome called, knocking softly. The keys stopped clicking, but nothing else was heard. Kagome took it as permission. She opened the door, then closed it behind her and leaned against it.

"Mr. Takamada…"

Sesshoumaru started typing again, never looking up from his work. Kagome fidgeted, her fingers playing with the sleeves of her 'nightshirt' as she called him again.

"Mr. Takamada…"

Again he ignored her, his fingers tapping insistently on the keyboard. Kagome sighed, figuring she deserved this. 'After all, I did call the man a hentai…in so many words.' She smiled, walking until she stood over his shoulder. "Mr. Takamada?"

'This guy can hold a grudge,' she thought as she tried to figure out what to do. Kagome finally shrugged, then wrapped her arms around his shoulders. She rested her chin on his shoulders, much like he did her last night as she whispered

"I'm sorry."

Sesshoumaru stopped typing, but didn't say a word as Kagome leaned her head against his. "I'm sorry," she repeated. "I didn't mean to insult you. It's just that I don't want anyone to think I'm using you, especially you."

"Why would I think that?" he asked. Kagome shrugged. "I don't know, but I don't want you to."

"Why do you care what I think? Aren't you just supposed to protect me?"

Kagome thought about that for a moment. 'Why do I care about what he thinks? It's not like he's a friend or something.' But something inside her disagreed, bringing up the times where they seemed like they were.

~Kagome blushed further as Sesshoumaru got up and walked to the door. He looked over his shoulder, with a small smile on his face. "Don't look like that. I want to watch a movie. Know of a good one?"

Kagome jumped up instantly, a bright smile on her face. "Yeah! 'Blood Moon'!"

"Huh?"

"You've never heard of 'Blood Moon'?" Kagome gaped at him in horror. Sesshoumaru shook his head no.

"You poor man!" Kagome chirped as she grabbed his hand and practically dragged him into the living room. "Where's the TV?"~

~"Thanks," she whispered shakily. "I don't know what would have happened-"

"You would have purified him into a nasty purple goo," Sesshoumaru assured her as he hugged her. "It's ok. Don't cry."

"Who said I would cry?" Kagome asked defiantly as a tear slipped down her cheek. "Oh hell," she groaned as another fell, then another as if of their own accord. "I am going to cry."

"Its perfectly fine," Sesshoumaru assured her. "Someone should have come down here with you."~

~"How are you?" Sesshoumaru asked.

Kagome smirked. "Were you worried about me Mr. Takamada?" she teased, knowing she'd get a 'Hell no' in response.

"Yes, actually."

Kagome looked back at him, her eyes widening impossibly. "Really?"

Sesshoumaru nodded. "Really." He wrapped her in a gentle embrace, leaning slightly so his chin could rest on the top of her head. "You may be tough, but you're still female. They could have hurt you."

"Wow," Kagome whispered as her eyes widened more. "Um, thanks Takamada."~

'He is my friend, isn't he?' Kagome thought as she smiled down at him. "Because you're my friend. I don't know when it happened, but I now care about you like I do Sango and Miroku."

"But not Inuyasha?" Sesshoumaru teased, finally turning toward her. Kagome rolled her eyes. "He has his moments."

"But I do not…"

Kagome giggled as he pulled her into his lap, shaking her head. "Nope. You have yours too. But I do care what you think, and I'm sorry I made you mad."

Sesshoumaru returned the hug, mentally congratulating himself on this small victory. "Your forgiven." He leaned back, watching her as he said "And you are my friend as well."

Kagome grinned, throwing her arms behind his head as she hugged him again. Sesshoumaru patted her back, a sadistic smile on his face. "Will you accept the clothes now?"

Kagome pulled back, a thoughtful expression on her face. "I don't know."

Sesshoumaru curled a finger under her chin, tilting her head up so he could stare into her eyes. "I would appreciate it if you did."

Kagome thought a little more, then nodded. "I will, but only if I get to give you something in return."

Sesshoumaru nodded, praising himself for yet another win. Kagome stood up and walked out, leaving a very pleased taiyoukai behind.

-------

SF: The best laid plans of men and youkai…

Inu-chan: Just what is that supposed to mean?

SF: It means that even when you plan something, and it seems like you're winning, all it takes is one wrong move to screw it up.

Inu-chan: Otherwise known as Sesshoumaru will screw up.

SF: Yup. But first-

Inu-chan: Who gives a damn? For once, he looks like a jackass, not me!

Sesshou: What was that, hanyou?

Inu-chan: I said you were a jackass, jackass. What of it?

{Sesshou backhands Inu-chan in the mouth, successfully starting another fight.}

{SF and Silver Fox take Kagome, Sango, Miroku and Shippou up in the rafters, leaving Kikyot and Naraku down below.}

SF: I'm getting sick of this crap.

Silver Fox: Me too.

Kagome: Then do something about it.

SF: You first Silver Fox.

Silver Fox: Alright. {::shapes his index and thumb into an L, then presses it to his forehead::} White Rapid Rush! {::sparkly bits surround him, then dart for the inu brothers:: ::sparkly bits turn into one giant wave, washing over the bad doggies::}

Inu-chan: {::shaking himself dry::} What the-? {::blocks a punch from Sesshou::} You cheated! You saw I wasn't ready!

Sesshou: {::dripping wet and not caring::} You were aware enough to block. {::inu brothers continue to fight::}

Silver Fox: That was it for my turn. {::nudges SF::} You're up.

>Zap!<

>Zap!<

{Cast holds back giggles as Inu-chan and Sesshou cough up smoke.}

SF: I told you guys to stop! {::to Silver Fox::} We should do that every time they get started.

Silver Fox: Yeah, that was fun. The preview and the responses are below.

Chapter Twenty: The Inconvenience of Not Knowing and the Importance of Being Earnest

"You wouldn't happen to know any taiyoukais, would you?"… "Fight me, not dance for me." … 'She's trying to hurt me,' … "Do you think I'm weak?" "I do not Kagome. You are strong." "He…does…"