InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ To Bear Witness ❯ The Inconvenience of Not Knowing and the Importance of Being Earnest ( Chapter 20 )

{Disclaimer: Nope. Not here either.}

Chapter Twenty:

The Inconvenience of Not Knowing and the Importance of Being Earnest

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SF: Long ass title, I know…

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*1:20 PM, Boston, Mass.*

Sesshoumaru sat in his home office, bored out of his mind. He was in a phone meeting with stockholders in Japan, Germany and Austria, and it just seemed to go on and on and-

"That's it for today Mr. Takamada. Thank you for attending this meeting yourself instead of Mr. Hitame."

"Of course," Sesshoumaru muttered before shutting off his laptop. He rubbed between his eyes with the ball of his thumb, trying to ward off a headache.

'Whatever happened to the days where meetings were solved when half of your opponent lay at your feet, and the other half across the room?' he mused as the doorbell rang. At first, he thought of it as no big deal, but Kagome's voice followed after.

"No, I have it. Thanks."

"But are you sure milady," the butler asked.

"I'm sure. It's not that big. Thank you though."

Sesshoumaru, his curiosity piqued, walked out of his study to see what it was Kagome and the butler were talking about. He came into the room just as Kagome shut the door, a large cardboard box at her feet.

"What is that?" he asked, remembering that he didn't expect any deliveries today. Kagome turned to him and smiled.

"Hi Mr. Takamada! You startled me for a moment there."

"My apologies," Sesshoumaru murmured as he stepped closer to the box. "What is this?"

"Oh! This!" Kagome exclaimed, effectively putting an urgency on the headache Sesshoumaru was trying to avoid. He sighed as Kagome explained.

"I got paid yesterday, and what little was left after expenses I used to buy a few things."

"I would have purchased those for you," Sesshoumaru told her. "You had only to ask."

"I'm sure of that, but I wanted specifics. Don't worry. It's just work-out clothes. Oh, and Grandpa sent me some things too." She groaned, glaring at the box suddenly. "I bet it's miko robes."

"Miko robes?"

Kagome nodded. "Grandpa's been in heaven since I started training again, so he most likely sent a few as a reward." She shook her head miserably. "Why couldn't he send me a new cell phone or something?"

"I would like to see them," Sesshoumaru told her, fully anticipating the dismay on her face.

"Why?"

"You're my first miko, and it wouldn't hurt to see what you would look like if you were born a few centuries ago."

Kagome grumbled, but lifted the gigantic box and headed for the steps. "My first miko," she grumbled. "Like I'm a Mattel product or something!"

"Do you need any help Kagome?" Sesshoumaru called as Kagome stumbled up the first step.

"Nope!" she called from around the box. "I have it."

"Sure, I bet you do," Sesshoumaru whispered as he pushed a white button on the wall. Ah came down the steps moments later, stopping before Kagome to peer down at Sesshoumaru. Sesshoumaru motioned to Kagome and walked back to his study, a silent request for Ah to keep her from injuring herself. Ah immediately turned to Kagome as she struggled for the next step.

"Good afternoon Kagome."

"Oh, hi Ah!" Kagome called, peeking over the side of the box. "How are you?"

"I'm good. Would you like some help with that?"

"Um, no thanks. I've got-" Ah scooped the box out of her hand and stood on the landing, motioning with his foot to lead the way. "Well," Kagome finished. "If you insist."

"What's in here, if you don't mind me asking," Ah replied as they walked up the final set of steps and turned down the hallway to her room. Kagome shrugged. "Just some workout clothes, and a few gifts from my grandfather. Mr. Takamada wants to see one of the miko robes he sent too."

"Really? I would love to see that myself," Ah told her as Kagome opened her door. She waited for Ah to walk in first, then followed behind him.

"OK Ah. Right here."

"Thank goodness," Ah groaned as he set the box down in the middle of the room. "That thing isn't heavy, it's just cumbersome." He turned and bowed to Kagome as she reached for one of the daggers on her arm. "Is there anything else I can get you?" he asked as Kagome kneeled down and ripped the shipping tape open. Kagome thought a moment, then nodded. "Could you get me the bow in the dojo please? I think it would make a great touch."

"Of course," Ah replied, dismissing himself from the room. Kagome opened the box, and after sorting through a few pairs of pants and t-shirts she found what she dreaded.

'Yup, Grandpa sent them,' she thought as she tossed the robes on her bed. Her laptop beeped from it's place on the vanity all of a sudden. Kagome sat down and, after wiring her shades to her laptop, pushed the connection button.

"Kagome here."

"Hi Kagome-girl!" Sango called as her face came into view. "How are you?"

"Pretty good," Kagome admitted. "I just got that package I ordered."

"Did your grandpa send you anything?"

"Yeah," Kagome answered. "Why?"

Sango held up a black pair of leggings, a black top and a wide fuchsia sash. "Because he sent me one too."

Kagome started to laugh, holding her sides as she gasped. "Why did he send you that?"

"I guess he figured that since you're training again, that maybe I should too. If he sends that giant boomerang I'll just die."

Kagome shook her head, her laughing fit dying to mere glee. "Oh well. Perhaps you should start training again. After all, there are youkai after Inuyasha and Takamada too."

"Yeah, that is right." Sango thought a moment, her head tilted to the side curiously. "Have you ever wondered why?"

"Why what?"

"Why youkai are after them too. Normally youkai don't care about humans, but we've had to keep at least two waves at bay since we started this mission. That's not including the elemental youkai that attacked you and Takamada by the pool."

Kagome nodded, now curious about the subject herself. "I don't know. I guess I'll have to ask. I have to go Sango. Is there anything else you want to tell me?"

"Yeah!" Miroku interrupted, scooting in beside Sango. "Inuyasha got his notebook back!"

"Really? When?"

"About a day ago. Apparently Katrina posted a reward at the police station when it was first stolen. She got a call the other day about it. Isn't that great?"

"Yeah, that is great," Kagome mumbled, finding something off about the whole thing. 'A laptop like Inuyasha's would've been worth a great deal. So why wasn't it pawned? Why steal it if you're not going to pawn it?"

"Oh, but that's it Kagome," Sango said finally. "So we'll go. Can I ask a favor?"

"Sure."

"Could you leave your laptop hooked up? You never know when it's an emergency."

"Alright then. Sounds reasonable."

"Thanks. That's all I wanted. Sango out."

"Kagome out."

*

"My lord, what are we doing again?" Un asked as he came down the steps. Sesshoumaru and Ah stood on the floor below, Sesshoumaru with his arms crossed over his chest and Ah leaning against a wall.

"We are waiting for Kagome," Sesshoumaru told him. "She is showing us something."

"Oh. OK."

All was quiet once again, until Kagome's voice came down the steps. "Here I come you guys."

Her head poked over the landing rail moments later, her ponytail cascading over her shoulder as she smiled down at them. She descended the steps to them, stopping a few inches from Sesshoumaru. "How do I look you guys?" she asked.

Sesshoumaru stared through her, images of his past flashing through him mind as his brain went on red alert. He growled softly, too low for Kagome to hear but loud enough for Ah and Un. They watched him nervously as he his claws extended and his fangs protruded from his mouth, neither action noticed by Kagome as she twirled around.

Something inside her subconscious did notice the tension thought, and instead of purifying the threat, it sent out rosy tendrils of soothing serenity.

The youkai before her calmed instantly, Sesshoumaru's youkai features leaving him as he focused on the miko in front of him.

"Well?" Kagome asked, her hands on her hips. That single act snapped Sesshoumaru out of his red alert, finally focusing on Kagome herself. Her hair was pulled back in a high ponytail, with the same tendril framing her face. The oversized bow she held in her hands in front of her. Her white haori was traditional, but the navy blue hakamas were not. They seemed to bring out the blue in her eyes, reducing the gray to tiny steel flecks of starlight.

"Lovely, Lady Kagome," Ah finally answered. Un nodded in agreement as he asked. "I thought miko colors were white and red."

Kagome nodded, turning from Sesshoumaru to Un as she answered him. "They were until 2 centuries. The different temples decided to change to their own colors so mikos from different shrines could be identified easily. This is my grandfather's temple's color," she said, tugging on the hakamas. She then turned back to Sesshoumaru, watching the curious expression on his face.

"Mr. Takamada, are you alright?"

Sesshoumaru mentally shook himself, blinking slightly as he nodded. "Yes, I'm alright." He placed his hand on her shoulder, a near smile on his face. "I wasn't expecting something so traditional to be so startling."

"I don't understand," Kagome told him.

"It is hard for me to explain, but I agree with Ah. You are quite beautiful in your Grandfather's present."

Kagome blushed, lowering her head bashfully. "Thank you, Mr. Takamada," she whispered. Sesshoumaru nodded, then nudged her toward the stairs. "Now go change. You're uncomfortable."

"How can you tell?" Kagome asked as she stood on the first step. Sesshoumaru smirked. 'You mean, besides your scent?' "The frown in your forehead, plus you keep tugging on your haori sleeve."

Kagome blushed again, this time in embarrassment. "I didn't know I was so easy to read."

Sesshoumaru's smirk widened. "Only to those who pay attention."

Kagome smiled, then turned and went back upstairs. She came down moments later, dressed in a black tube top and white cotton pants.

"Where's Takamada?" she asked Ah and Un.

"He went to his study," Ah told her, pointing down the hallway. Kagome thanked him, then went down the hallway to Sesshoumaru's office. She knocked first before entering, finding Sesshoumaru in front of his laptop per usual.

"Mr. Takamada, I'm going to the dojo for a couple of hours. Do you need anything?"

Sesshoumaru swiveled the chair around, glancing at her attire before addressing her. "You don't have to pretend to be my assistant here Kagome."

"Huh?" Kagome thought a moment , then smiled. "Do you remember the discussion we had last week about us being friends?"

Sesshoumaru nodded.

"Well, for me that means that I check with you before I do something, just in case you need me for anything. So, again, do you need anything?"

Sesshoumaru shook his head. "No, I don't. Thank you for telling me."

Kagome grinned, nodding her head. "See! Now you're getting the hang of things! If you do need me, you know what to do."

"Whistle?"

Kagome shook her head, instantly sorry for that little joke. "No, come get me." She sauntered out of Sesshoumaru's office, leaving Sesshoumaru to do whatever he was doing in peace.

*Wednesday 11:53 am, The Emerald City*

Sesshoumaru sat at his desk, watching the Tetsusaiga launch on his computer screen. He glanced at the break room door, where he sent Kagome for her weekly staff meeting. To be perfectly honest, he was more interested in the staff meeting than in the launch. His ears twitched toward the door as Kagome's laughter rang out from behind it.

"Poor Miroku!" she groaned, still giggling slightly.

"I know!" Sesshoumaru heard Sango reply from her side of the laptop. "He owes Inuyasha $100, not to mention the $200 he's lost already!"

Kagome giggled again, this time with Sango. "Miroku should have known better than to gamble his money away."

"I agree."

"So," Kagome said as she took a deep breath. "How are things?"

"Pretty good. Inuyasha sold his townhouse and bought a new one."

"Really?"

'Foolish hanyou,' Sesshoumaru thought with a sigh. 'When will he learn not to throw money away so carelessly?'

"Yeah. It's a nice one too. It's closer to Katrina's apartment. But other than that, nothing's new. Did you ever find out what happened to your clothes?"

"No," was Kagome's saddened reply. "I don't know where they went."

"Perhaps Istanbul."

"Or Timbuktu," Kagome said with a giggle. Sesshoumaru shook his head. 'They're both wrong. They should try Iran.'

"But it was really nice of Mr. Takamada to get you some new threads," Sango said moments later.

"Yeah…"

"What's wrong?"

Kagome sighed. "Don't get me wrong, I appreciate it and all. I just don't like him giving me things without me giving something back."

"Don't you think risking your life for the guy is present enough?"

Sesshoumaru nodded in agreement, leaning back in his chair so he could hear Kagome's response better.

"Yeah, but I just…I don't know. He's just done so much for me, you know?"

"No, I don't know," was Sango's confused reply. "What are you talking about?"

Kagome sighed. "Look, don't freak out ok?"

"Huh?"

Sesshoumaru was a tad confused too. He grabbed a pen from his desk, twirling it between his middle and index finger as Kagome explained.

"Do you remember the night of Jinsue's ball?"

"Yeah," Sango replied. "How can I forget? Worst night's sleep ever."

"Well, it wasn't for me…"

Sango was quiet for a moment, then "YOU AND MR. TAKAMADA SLEPT TOGETHER?!!!!"

"Shhhhh!" Kagome hissed. "Be quiet! No, we didn't, at least not in the way your thinking." Kagome sighed. "I think all that time spent with Miroku is turning you into a pervert."

"Whatever. So what happened?"

"Well, I'm not entirely sure. I mean, I was rather-"

"Wasted?"

Kagome groaned. "That. Anyway, we've done that ever since then."

"So while you were here…"

"Uh-huh."

"And in Seattle…"

"Uh-huh."

"And now?"

"No, not now. That's my problem."

'Don't tell me she misses me…' Sesshoumaru thought with a smirk.

"What's the problem?" Sango asked irritably.

Kagome sighed moments later, misery laced in the wistful tone of her voice. "When he's with me, the dream isn't as bad. It's like seeing a movie or something. But now that I'm by myself again, it's more intense than it was 3 months ago."

"Ohhhhhhhh….Hey! Why don't you tell Mr. Takamada about the dreams?"

"What?"

'Yes, why don't you?' Sesshoumaru mused, rather amused with the fact that he and Sango were on the same level for once.

"Tell him," Sango said moments later. Kagome must have looked to argue, because Sango replied "At least tell him about the affect he has on the dream. Plus he might know the guy."

Sesshoumaru bristled slightly at this, his features taking on a disapproving frown. 'So, the nightmares are about a man are they? We'll have to purge those images-'

"Sure," Kagome said condescendingly. "Let's see…how would you feel if the only woman standing between you and death walks up to you and says 'Well gee Mr. Takamada. I know I'm the only one keeping you from being sliced into youkai Kibbles, but I have a question. You see, I've been plagued with these nightmares and…You wouldn't happen to know any taiyoukais, would you?"

>Clink!<

Sesshoumaru blinked, barely aware of the pen that sailed across the room, bounced off one of the glass end tables, and into the door on the other side. 'A…taiyoukai? How unless…could she be bewitched somehow?'

"Alright Kagome," Sango said, her voice soothing and defeated. "You made your point. I just thought it would be a good idea-"

"Well it's not. I don't want him thinking I'm some kind of nut or something."

"Ohhhhh…" Sango drawled curiously. "I get it."

"Get what?"

"You like him, don't you?"

"No. He's…a friend."

But the way Kagome said it wasn't convincing, to Sango or Sesshoumaru as Sango started to laugh. "I don't see why not. I'd say he's cute."

"Yes," Kagome said dryly. "If I remember, you're exact words were 'Hot shit on a plate'."

'Ahh…so that's what that means.'

"Whatever," Sango huffed. "You know you do. You two should hook up."

"What happened to me needing to get laid?"

"Oh, I'm sure he's good for that too."

Sesshoumaru shook his head, an uncharacteristic smirk on his face as Kagome sputtered. "That's it. Meeting over."

"Oh wait! I'm sorry! But you have to admit that he is rather…"

"Alright damn it!" Kagome said, as if she were trying not to scream. "He's cute! Happy?"

"Thrilled! There's hope for you yet Kagome-girl!"

"Why do I bother? Goodbye Sango-"

"Wait! I have one more thing!"

Kagome sighed. "What?"

Sango cleared her throat, then "Kagome and Takamada sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-"

>Click!<

It took a moment for Sesshoumaru to recognize the sound, but when he did, he again held back a chuckle as Kagome's grumbling fluttered from the break room.

"Sometimes I really hate that bitch," she muttered good naturedly as she snapped the laptop closed. She appeared in the doorway moments later, with a small smile on her face.

"How was your meeting Mr. Takamada?" she asked, peering over his shoulder at his computer. Sesshoumaru immediately closed the screen before she could get a decent look at anything. "It was…boring." He turned to her as she sat on the corner of his desk with a smirk. "And how was your meeting?"

Kagome blushed slightly, but said "Fine. Rather boring too."

"I see."

Kagome looked around, staring inquisitively at the pen lying on the floor. "What happened to that?"

Sesshoumaru glanced at it, then returned his gaze to her. "Nothing important." He sighed mentally as Kagome settled herself on his desk. "One of these days, I'm going to train you-"

"Train me to do what?" Kagome interrupted, a tenseness in her voice.

"To not sit on my desk."

Kagome nodded, her eyes closed as a funny look crossed her face. "Really?"

"That is the plan."

"hmmm…" She suddenly hiked up the legs of her wide-legged pants and climbed on top of his desk. She stood there for a moment, leaving heel prints all over his contracts. He glared up at her, watching the playful glint in her eyes as she looked down at him.

Kagome crouched down, much like a dog, as she looked at him and said "Woof."

Sesshoumaru blinked, watching impassively as Kagome sat up and 'begged'. "What are you doing?"

"You said you wanted to train me. So, train."

"Get down."

Kagome shook her head.

"Don't make me get you down."

"I'm faster than you."

"Want to test that theory?" In a flash, Sesshoumaru grasped her by her waist, dragged her off the desk and into his lap. Kagome crossed her arms and pouted. "No fun. You cheated."

"No, I am faster."

Kagome huffed. "Whatever. Hey!" she chirped with the speed of a madman. "I'm hungry!"

"And I care why…"

Kagome scowled. "I'm hungry, so you should care. You can't train anyone on an empty stomach." She growled lightly, her hands shaped into little claws. "Feed me mortal."

Sesshoumaru tried to hold in his amusement, but the picture she made was just to cute to not be laughed at. "And if I don't?"

"Then I'll eat you instead."

Sesshoumaru's shoulders shook under the statement, trying his best not to turn the innocent words into something more…interesting. Kagome peered into his face, a small smirk on hers. "I made you laugh. You hardly ever laugh." She stood up, pulling him to his feet as she reached for her coat. "This calls for a celebration!"

"Of what kind?" Sesshoumaru asked, grabbing his coat as Kagome dragged him to the door.

Kagome stopped, her hand clutching the doorknob. She nibbled on her bottom lip thoughtfully. "Hmmm…." she said after a while. "I don't know." Sesshoumaru shook his head as she finally shrugged. "But we'll figure it out in the car." She proceeded to drag him out of his office to the elevator. She waved to CiCi.

"We're going to lunch!" Kagome called, pausing by her desk before continuing toward the elevator. Sesshoumaru quirked a brow at the amusement on his secretary's face, only to hear her laughter as the elevator doors closed behind them. He playfully scowled down at Kagome, who seemed to still be thinking of a destination to pay him any attention.

"Were are we going Kagome?"

She looked up and shrugged. "Don't know yet."

"So you dragged me out of my office for nothing?"

"Not for nothing Mr. Takamada. You need to spend a little less time working anyway."

It was then that Sesshoumaru noticed something odd. 'She still calls me Mr. I wonder why?' He thought back to her conversations with her friends in Jacksonville, including the arguments she and Inuyasha used to have. 'Yes, she called Inuyasha by his first name too. I wonder why she hasn't called me by mine."

"Figured out where to go yet?" Kagome asked, effectively derailing Sesshoumaru's train of thought.

"This is your idea."

"Fine."

Sesshoumaru smirked as Kagome started to grumble, something she was doing a lot of lately. His thoughts turned serious as he considered her. 'Such a mystery this little human is. But that is what makes her interesting. Each day that passes I learn something new about her.' He frowned suddenly, again ignored by Kagome as she continued her mutterings about stubborn c. e. o. s and their ego trips. 'This dream though. I do not like it, but how to bring up the subject without alarming her?'

Sesshoumaru shelved the idea as the elevator doors opened. He and Kagome stepped into the lobby, Kagome once again 'leading' him through it to the outer doors and the city beyond.

*Friday 8:23 pm; The Dojo*

Sesshoumaru slowly lifted himself up, the muscles in his arms tensing under his weight as he crossed his chin over the bar. The rest of his body dangled from his grip on the chin-up bar, relaxed and flowing as Sesshoumaru methodically went through his exercise routine.

Unlike other youkai in his position, Sesshoumaru chose to stay as lethal and deadly even in his comfortable wealth. He sighed, his eyes closed as he repeated the necessary motions.

'I miss the old days,' he mused as he flipped over, his knees hooking around pole supporting his upside down position. He did his sit ups this way, finding it a tad more difficult with the added risk of his blood rushing to his head.

'What I need is a good fight…or a good screw.' Instantly his thoughts shifted to the young miko under his roof. 'I wonder what she's doing now?' He mused as he crossed his arms over his chest. He lifted his torso effortlessly, his chin touching his knees before settling back down. His hair, held back in it's usual low ponytail swayed slightly below him. 'My little prize…' He smiled to himself as he continued his exercises, loosing count of the repetitions as he mused over his subject.

'I've yet to see her fight,' Sesshoumaru thought to himself. 'I wonder what technique she uses. She seems as if she would be good at nijitsu, but perhaps not. I would love to see.' An idea struck him suddenly. Sesshoumaru thought a moment, then nodded to himself as he flipped down. 'Yes, that would be a good idea. I'm in need of a good fight, and who better to give one than a miko like her.'

He exited the dojo, following Kagome's scent to the living room. Sesshoumaru leaned against the doorframe, watching her quietly. She sat on the floor, deeply engrossed in a video game of Rin's.

"Damn it!" she grumbled at the TV as she pushed the buttons on the controller. "Cut me some slack would you?"

"What are you doing?" Sesshoumaru finally asked, having moved from the door to her side. Kagome paused the game and smiled up at him. "Oh, hi Mr. Takamada! How are you?"

'There she goes with that 'Mr. Takamada' kick again…' "Fine Kagome. What are you doing?"

"Playing a game. It's one of my favorites."

Sesshoumaru looked up at the screen. "It looks boring."

"It's not! It's pretty great! See that guy right there?" Kagome pointed to a figure on the right side of the screen. "He's the leader of this group called SeeDs."

"What is a SeeD?"

Kagome stopped, scratching her head. "I…don't know. Never have. But anyway-"

Sesshoumaru shook his head in amusement, but continued to listen.

"His bar is here." She tapped the screen. "When his bar turns red, you get this menu. " She resumed the game. " The menu has 4 commands that he can do. If you pick Attack, he slashes the monster in front of him. If you pick GF-"

"What is a GF?"

"Um, kinda like a youkai. Anyway, if you pick it, the bar changes to blue but empties out. When it does, the GF fights for a moment, then you get your original character back-"

"As interesting as this all is," Sesshoumaru interrupted, his hand on her shoulder to insure that he had her complete attention. "I wish to ask you something."

"Sure. Shoot."

"Would you spar with me?" Kagome's laughter had not been what Sesshoumaru expected. He glared at her as she giggled herself silly. "What is so funny?"

Kagome gasped, trying to contain her amusement as she looked up at him. "I'm so sorry about that. It's just that I don't think that's the best idea."

"And why not?" Sesshoumaru asked, ignoring how adorable she looked with that happy smile on her face, nor how much he missed it when she answered him.

"Because when I train I'm trying to do something…"

'Hmmm…' Sesshoumaru thought as he took a seat beside her. 'This should be interesting.' "What are you trying to do?"

Kagome sighed wearily; Sesshoumaru noticing for the first time how drained she looked as she explained. "I'm trying to reach my Limit Break."

"Limit Break?" Sesshoumaru repeated, remembering the word from when Rin tried to explain her game to him a few years ago. "What is that?"

"It's when a miko finally reaches true power. See, right now I can disable a human, purify a youkai-"

'Don't remind me…'

"And heal but I can't do them all at the same time. That's what a Limit Break is. Each miko has an innate way of using her power, but it does the same thing with every miko."

"I'm confused."

Kagome nodded. "I thought you would be."

"Then why try to explain?"

"Because you need to know this. It could save your life. Anyway, it's like this;" Kagome said, trying to smooth over his obvious wounded pride as she recalled what her grandfather's textbooks said. "A Limit Break is where a miko can use all three powers at the same time during battle. The healing part heals the miko and anyone in her good graces. The healing and a part of the human defenses create a shield to protect them, and the purity and the other part of the human defenses destroy any threat in a five mile radius."

Sesshoumaru nodded. He remembered hearing of this technique from his father, but always doubted its existence. None of the mikos he fought ever used it, so he figured it to be nothing but a fairy tale. Hearing it now, from Kagome, seemed to affirm his father's warnings about the creatures. "And how will that keep you from sparing with me?"

Kagome sighed again, reaching to take the disk out of the game console and turn it off. "If I were to reach it while sparring with you, I could seriously hurt you."

"I doubt that will happen," Sesshoumaru replied. He stood up, his hand outstretched to her as he gave her a alluring smile. "You know we're not trying to hurt each other, so there's no risk. Besides, it has to be boring just destroying dummies all day."

"Well….." Kagome considered a moment, then nodded. "OK! Let's go!"

Sesshoumaru and Kagome entered the dojo minutes later, each taking up a separate side of the room as lightening flashed in the skylight overhead.

****

SF: Ooooooo….the lightening again. Don't you guys love it!

****

"What are you doing?" Sesshoumaru asked as Kagome walked past him to the CD player implanted in the wall.

"I always train to music. You should try it sometime. It helps to concentrate."

"I'll stick to the old ways, thank you very much."

"OK," Kagome muttered as she popped a disk into the CD player. She pushed a few buttons for a moment, then turned to Sesshoumaru.

"Are we using weapons?" she asked.

"Do you want to?"

"Nope." Kagome shook her head. "I don't think that's a good idea."

"Alright then. Hand to hand it is." Sesshoumaru gently shoved her away from the wall.

"Wait! I forgot to press play!"

Sesshoumaru reached over and pushed it for her. Kagome scowled, but shrugged as the music started to play. She giggled slightly at Sesshoumaru's confused face.

"What?"

"You listen to classical music?" he asked before the music took a drastic, dark turn. Kagome shook her head.

"Nope. Now get ready."

Sesshoumaru smiled, dropping into his old fighting stance from memory. Kagome dropped into hers, something Sesshoumaru instantly recognized as kickboxing.

'That does suit her,' he mused as Kagome smiled. "We'll start when the verse starts."

"Alright."

They waited a little more, then

/I am a little bit of loneliness, a little bit of disregard/

Sesshoumaru and Kagome darted toward each other, clashing the instant they reached each other. Sesshoumaru merely blocked Kagome's punches and kicks, secretly admiring the graceful way she fought. 'But it's too perfect, like a dance or something,' he concluded as Kagome whirled around him. He dodged at her first attempt to kick him, recognizing in an instant what she was doing when her foot stopped inches from his face.

'She's only playing.' Sesshoumaru, not one to enjoy being toyed with, growled low in his chest. 'I want to see her fight for real, not this flowery crap.'

/I am a little bit insecure, a little unconfident/

Kagome spun away from him, easily avoiding his attempts to grab her as she lightly smacked him in the ribs. 'Alright then, if she wants to play, I'll teach her how.'

Sesshoumaru stuck his foot out, tripping her up as Kagome attempted to get away from him once again. She fell to the floor with a thud, Sesshoumaru scooping her up instantly as she scowled up at him.

"Hey! What was that for?"

"You are not serious," Sesshoumaru told her as he brutally shoved her away. "Fight me, not dance for me."

Kagome growled back in response, her eyes narrowing into slits. "Fine. Have it your way."

Sesshoumaru noticed the change instantly. The whirling stopped, her kicks and punches coming at a nearly lightening rate as Sesshoumaru blocked and dodged again. He turned away from her, his back to her for only a moment…

Which was all the opportunity she needed.

Kagome grabbed his ponytail, jerking it hard enough to bow him backward. Sesshoumaru snarled, keeping a tight reign on his youkai as Kagome kicked the back of his knees. He dropped like a stone to the padded floor.

He reached up, grabbing Kagome by the waist. She slapped his cheek lightly, startling him into letting go long enough for her to shove him back to the floor. Sesshoumaru grimaced, but leaped to his feet as Kagome bounded across the room.

"Are you alright?" she asked. Sesshoumaru brushed himself off, then slowly took off his sweat-soaked tank top. He meant for the action to be intimidating, but the rising blush on Kagome's cheeks rebuked that idea entirely.

'Hmmm….perhaps this could be used to an advantage,' Sesshoumaru thought as he charged forward again. Kagome ignored his physique the instant he moved. She flipped over his head, reaching out to touch his exposed side before landing behind him. Sesshoumaru frowned. 'She sees a lot more than others do. I'm leaving a lot open. Have I lost my touch?'

Kagome kicked out, her foot purposely grazing his left thigh as her hand brushed past his ribs. "Ready to give up?" she jokes as Sesshoumaru went still.

Sesshoumaru turned to her, shaking his head as he did so. He was through playing with her. 'She will learn to respect me,' he thought to himself, each pass of Kagome's hand during their bout replaying in his head as he dropped into stance again. 'She will learn who's dominant.'

He reached out faster than Kagome could think, grabbing her arm and jerking her to the floor. Kagome yelped in surprise, but not before Sesshoumaru dragged her up and enfolded her in a near crushing bear hug.

"Mr. Takamada," Kagome gasped as Sesshoumaru dug his chin into the soft flesh between her shoulder and neck. "I can't breathe."

Sesshoumaru flung his arms open, instantly dropping her before picking her up again and pinning her to the wall by her shoulder.

"What is wrong with you?" Kagome panted as she stared at him. Sesshoumaru smirked, her fear of him evident on her face as well as in her scent. He took a deep breath, drinking it in as Kagome struggled to get away from him.

"You are weak."

"What?" Kagome squeaked. She hadn't seen Sesshoumaru's mouth move, so he didn't say anything…right?

"You are weak." Sesshoumaru tapped her nose as her scent shifted from fear to outrage.

"Why you arrogant-"

"How are you to be any good to me if you fight so poorly? You can't protect yourself." He let go of her shoulder, sending her to the floor again. This time he turned away from her, moving to walk out of the dojo.

"I'm not weak!"

Sesshoumaru smirked to himself, but ignored her as he reached down and picked up his shirt.

"Did you hear me?!"

Again, he ignored her.

Kagome seethed, her eyes narrowing into barely seen slits. "Don't ignore me!"

Sesshoumaru still said nothing, confidant in his control over her.

Kagome growled, the memories of her nightly dreams flooding to her with a vengeance.

'You are too weak to help me.'

'You are not training hard enough.'

"I…am…not…weak!"

Sesshoumaru felt the shift in power moments too late.

Kagome dashed forward, her eyes closed as she struck Sesshoumaru in the side. Sesshoumaru winced, turning to catch her again as she disappeared before his eyes. His feet were swept out from under him seconds later, sending him back to the floor.

Sesshoumaru snarled, but stopped at the sight before him. Kagome stood, still as a statue as she watched him. Tears streaked their way from her purple-clouded eyes as her entire body glowed a lavender intensity.

'What happened?' Sesshoumaru wondered as he stood up. Kagome barely blinked as she watched him, the tears never ceasing as she disappeared again. Sesshoumaru glanced around quickly, then winced as a sharp blow landed on his stomach.

'She's trying to hurt me,' Sesshoumaru realized.

****

SF: No shit Sherlock! You did like insult her!

****

He barely ducked being kicked in the head as Kagome's foot whizzed by. Sesshoumaru grabbed her arm and slung her into a nearby wall, only to watch as she rebounded off it and shot toward him again. She screamed as she threw all of her fury into her punch, her fist glowing intently. Sesshoumaru dodged again, this time shoving her across the mat.

He ran toward her, intending to smack some sense into her when she ducked and blasted a blue streak of energy to his chest. Sesshoumaru flew back, skidding across the floor before catching himself by one hand. He rose to a handstand, his other hand behind his back as he flipped and faced her.

Kagome watched him, then ran toward him, fully intent on kicking him in the chest. Sesshoumaru anticipated this, grabbing her leg and throwing her toward the mirrors. At the last second, he grabbed her by her shirt collar and tossed her underhanded. Kagome bounced on the padded floor, skidding to a stop like a skipping stone as her head knocked on the padded wall. Sesshoumaru immediately pounced on her, straddling her waist with his hand wrapped loosely around her throat

Sesshoumaru observed her uneasily, until she groaned and tried to sit up.

"What happened?" she asked as normal, starlit eyes opened to his caramel ones. Sesshoumaru shrugged before releasing his hold on her throat.

"I don't know. You changed."

"Oh God," Kagome gasped, paling. "I didn't hurt you, did I?"

"No," Sesshoumaru shook his head, his hair; which lost the ponytail elastic eons ago, shifted over his shoulder to mingle with hers on the floor. "But I have a feeling you will be sore."

"I think you might be right," Kagome groaned as she tried to sit up once again. "I can't move."

"That could be because I'm sitting on you."

Kagome blushed prettily. "Get off me pervert."

"And let you attack me again?" Sesshoumaru teased, brushing a dark sweaty strand of hair behind her ear. "I think not." He smiled down at her, a true one that showed just a tad bit of worry on Kagome's behalf. "I believe this is my fault."

"Really?" Kagome asked. "What makes you say that?"

"I said something rather rude to you. I did not mean it." He relaxed against her, his legs moving between hers as he kissed her forehead. "I am sorry."

Kagome blinked, not entirely sure as to what to say. "I forgive you I guess."

"Good."

Sesshoumaru's arms were around her moments later, engulfing her in a warmth like no other. Kagome sighed in the embrace, wishing her arms were functioning so she could return it. Sesshoumaru glanced down at her moments later, a knowing smile on his face.

"I take it you can't move."

"Right."

"Then I'd better do this now, that way you can't hit me for it." Sesshoumaru's forehead touched hers suddenly, his lips moving toward hers. Kagome closed her eyes and braced herself for it, nervousness and a kind of longing racing through her veins.

"Is everything alri-oh. Forgive me Takamada-sama," Ah said from the doorway. Kagome blushed as Sesshoumaru kissed her nose, then glanced up at Ah. "Draw the lady a bath."

"As you wish," Ah replied before scampering away. Sesshoumaru kneeled, sitting up and observing Kagome's sprawled form beneath him. He scooped her up suddenly, carrying her bridal-style out of the dojo and to her room.

"What are you doing?!" Kagome asked as Sesshoumaru thumped her down on her bed. He dug around for a thin blanket inside her closet, his eyes flashing triumphantly as he fished it out. He draped it over Kagome, then reached under it and grabbed hold of her pants.

"I said what are you-HENTAI!!!!" she screeched when Sesshoumaru, in one quick jerk, yanked her pants off her and out from under the blanket. Sesshoumaru dropped them, shushing her as he reached under for her tank top.

"I'm helping you," he grunted, tossing the tube top over his shoulder.

"You call striping me helping?"

"You need a bath. You can't take one in your clothes." He smiled down at her. "I'm not going to do anything you don't want me to."

"Good, because I'd hate to see you turned into a glowing blue goo," she told him, missing his slight pale as she looked up at the ceiling. Her underwear were gone moments later, left in a pile along with the rest of her clothes as Sesshoumaru wrapped the blanket around her and carried her to the bathroom.

Ah smiled at Kagome as they came in, his finger testing the water's temperature. "All set, Kagome."

"Thanks Ah," Kagome replied as Sesshoumaru lowered her, blanket and all, into the water. He removed it the instant Kagome was fully submerged, leaving Kagome only covered in mountains of peach smelling bubbles. Sesshoumaru handed Ah the dripping blanket, mentally giving him his leave as he sat down on the edge of the tub.

"You can go now," Kagome told him, watching with relief as Ah bowed and left the room. Sesshoumaru stayed put. "I said you can go Takamada."

Sesshoumaru shook his head, silently laughing at her scandalized face. "I don't think so."

"And why not?"

"Can you move yet?" He answered for her. "No, you can't. You can't bathe yourself, no less keep upright. If you were to drown when I walked away, it would hurt me."

Kagome blushed, but shook her head. "You're not bathing me."

Sesshoumaru stood up and reached inside the corner shower, retrieving a white fluffy pouf. "I am and that's that." He smiled at her uneasiness. "Again, I won't touch anything I shouldn't."

Kagome glared up at him, but relented at the genuine helpful look in his eyes. "Alright fine. But if you touch anything, and I mean anything you shouldn't, I get to hurt you. Deal?"

"Deal," Sesshoumaru agreed as he kneeled by the tub. He dipped the poof into the water in front of her, then gently nudged her forward. He braced her in the crook of his arm, his hand on her shoulder as the poof made slow circling patterns on her back. Kagome relaxed instantly, her eyes fluttering shut as Sesshoumaru continued his gentle ministrations.

She felt so secure, so safe lying so helplessly with him. She mentally shook herself for being so wary of him earlier. Sesshoumaru moved the poof over her shoulders, the hand on her shoulder holding her hair to the side as the water flowed over sore muscles. She gave a soft sight when he nudged her back to the side of the tub, watching him through glassy eyes as he reached under the water.

"What are you doing?" she asked as he fished around. He seemed to be searching for something. "I said, what are you-"

"Found it!" Sesshoumaru replied as his hand wrapped around her foot. He ran the poof over the abused limb, sweeping the poof only as far as he knee before smoothing it back down. He paid the same attention to her other leg before moving back to the shower.

"What now?"

"I'm going to wash your hair. You need it."

Kagome scowled, but didn't protest as Sesshoumaru leaned her back into the water. He made sure to get her hair completely waterlogged before bringing her back up and resettling her against the tubside. He rubbed her shampoo in his hands, much as she had done him before running his hands through her hair.

Kagome could have purred under the way his fingers moved over her scalp. 'This is, by far, the best shampoo ever!' she thought as she melted in Sesshoumaru's hands. 'Not only is it relaxing, it's being done by a totally hot shirtless guy!' She blushed at the Sango-like comment, not unnoticed by Sesshoumaru as he leaned her back for a rinse.

"Are you ok?" he asked, suddenly worried that her exertion had made her sick.

Kagome nodded, her blush darkening slightly before fading away. "Yeah, I'm fine."

'I bet you are,' Sesshoumaru mused as he rinsed and repeated her shampoo. He enjoyed the special attention he was giving her, even if she didn't. 'It's only proper for me to keep her clean when she can't.' Sesshoumaru told himself as he reached inside a linen closet for a towel. 'After all, it would reflect poorly on me if she were anything but.'

****

SF: He just had to ruin the fluffy moment, didn't he?

****

Sesshoumaru wrapped the towel around her head, squeezing slightly to soak up any moisture before mentally calling for Ah.

Ah appeared in the door moments later with a bow and a large, fluffy red towel. "Do you need anything?"

Kagome, not noticing his appearance until he said something, started at Ah's entrance.

"I apologize Kagome," Ah told her as he stepped into the room. "Do you need me Takamada-sama?"

"Yes. Wrap that towel around her when I hold her up."

"Now wait just a damn minute!" Kagome sputtered when Sesshoumaru hooked his hands under her arms. "I'm not going to be ogled by you two!"

"But my lady, we must get you out," Ah protested. Sesshoumaru thought a moment, then smiled.

"We will close our eyes. We won't open them until you say so."

Kagome looked up at him, her eyes gazing intently into his. "Promise?"

Sesshoumaru nodded. "I promise."

"What about you Ah?" Kagome said, turning her gaze to his dual-colored ones. Ah smiled and gave her a short bow. "I promise as well my lady."

"Good." Kagome sighed. "Let's get this over with then."

Sesshoumaru assured himself of his hold on her, then glanced back at Ah. Ah closed his eyes instantly, as did Sesshoumaru before he lifted Kagome out of the water.

Sesshoumaru could hear the splattering of water dripping on the floor before he heard Ah fumble past him. A few curses and mumbled 'hentai's later Kagome gave the word to open their eyes. Sesshoumaru did so, nearly smirking at Kagome's livid face.

"Did we peek?" he asked innocently. Kagome huffed, but said nothing as Sesshoumaru set her on her feet. He swept her up an instant later, dismissing Ah with a thank you as he carried her back to her bed. He dried her swiftly, too swiftly for him and not swift enough for Kagome as he reached inside the closet for another blanket.

Sesshoumaru draped this one over her as well, then reached under it and jerked the towel free. Kagome gasped in surprise.

"What?" she said at his amusement. "I've never had a guy dress me before. It takes a while to get used to."

"I'm sure it does."

"Ooooo…." Kagome growled, wishing she could cross her arms over her chest as Sesshoumaru dug around the armoire. "I'm sure it wouldn't be so easy for you if our roles were reversed."

"I don't know," Sesshoumaru said, his head inside the armoire. "A pretty girl, bathing me and dressing me. Not to mention drying me off." He sighed and closed the doors moments later, moving to the drawers below them. "I don't know. I think I'd rather enjoy it."

"You would, you hentai," Kagome muttered, blushing furiously. 'What is it about this guy that makes me do that?' Kagome asked herself as Sesshoumaru continued to search.

Sesshoumaru finally gave up, standing straight and looking at Kagome irritably. "Where are your underwear?"

"Oh no!" Kagome started, shaking her head. "No, no, no, no, no! You are NOT putting my underwear on for me!"

"So you want to sleep nude…"

Kagome blushed yet again. 'That's what does it. His mouth…' "No! And so what if I do?"

"Then perhaps tonight would be a good night to share a bed." He smiled at her, his hands held up innocently. "I'm kidding. If you won't tell me…" He moved toward the door that connected their rooms, disappearing behind it. He appeared moments later, a gunmetal gray silk shirt in his hands. He reached under the blanket, slipping her arms inside it and assuring himself that anything interest was covered before moving the blanket aside.

Sesshoumaru buttoned the shirt up, ignoring her startled gasp as he did so. He picked her up with one arm, the other arm sweeping the covers back effortlessly. He tucked her in as he did a few weeks ago, pulling the blankets up to her chest and placing another kiss on her forehead.

"Goodnight Kagome."

Kagome smiled back, her eyes sliding closed. "Goodnight Takamada."

Sesshoumaru smiled as she drifted off, but was once again plagued with the way she addressed him. 'Hmmm….this is not good. How can I expect her to fall in love with me if she doesn't feel close to me?' He retired to his room, taking a quick shower before trudging to his study. 'How to address the issue is beyond me at the moment, but only for the moment.' Sesshoumaru turned on his computer and reached for one of the numerous stacks of paper on his desk, resuming the work he'd left before dinner.

*2:03 am, Sesshoumaru's Study*

Sesshoumaru rubbed his eyes with his forefinger and thumb, hours of staring at the screen straining even his youkai vision. He sighed, reaching forward to turn the screen off before standing up and leaving the room. He traversed to the kitchen, digging around for something to snack on. When he found none, he sighed and left, making his way upstairs.

He paused at Kagome's room, hearing a small whimpering from inside. He tried the door, but it was locked from the inside. 'I did do that, didn't I?' Sesshoumaru remembered. He opened his door then the door connecting their rooms, stopping in the threshold. The scent of fear and arousal smacked him square in the chest, sending him stumbling backward. Sesshoumaru kneeled, his breaths labored as Kagome whimpered again.

"No, please…don't…"

Sesshoumaru stood on this, the pain laced in her voice moving him forward. He stumbled to her bedside, her scent making it difficult to focus.

"What am I supposed to do?"

Kagome sobbed, her head twisting painfully to the side as she whimpered again. Sesshoumaru threw the covers back, shirking off everything but his pants before lying beside her. He covered them both, then wrapped his arms around her and pulled her closer to him.

'She said that I make this easier for her,' Sesshoumaru remembered as Kagome sobbed into his chest. 'Let's just see if that's the truth.'

Sure enough, moments later she relaxed, the fear in her scent receding considerably. Sesshoumaru ran gentle fingers through her hair, whispering kind encouragement in her ear as she curled up against him.

Kagome opened her eyes, sleep-fogged that they were as she stared into his.

"Mr. Takamada?"

"Yes?"

She sniffed brokenly, the sound tugging on Sesshoumaru's heart. "Do you think I'm weak?"

Sesshoumaru shook his head, regretting allowing those words slip past his lips. "I do not Kagome."

Kagome sniffed again as she closed her eyes, her head resting on his shoulder. "He…does…"

"He who?"

But Sesshoumaru was answered with only silence. He looked down, finding Kagome peacefully sleeping. He brushed his thumb against her cheeks, wiping away her tears as a frown creased his brow. 'Who is this he, and how dare he try to make this Sesshoumaru a liar!' Sesshoumaru snarled, his fangs protruding from his lips. Kagome whimpered again, snuggling closer to him in an effort to escape the tension Sesshoumaru created. He kissed her forehead again, his eyes glowing a fierce gold as he stared into the darkness around them.

'You are not weak Kagome because I say so. Damn to hell anyone who thinks different!' Sesshoumaru thought vehemently, not questioning the protectiveness of his nature. Hands became claws at the thought, though they continued their passage through Kagome's hair.

"No one dares harm what is mine…" he growled, the rumbling vibrating from his chest to Kagome's. She shifted again, throwing a leg over his waist, again seeking comfort and safety in his embrace. Sesshoumaru, remembering exactly what she was clad in, instantly calmed, blushing slightly at the suggestiveness of it all…

And this time, a piece of ice fell from the glacier surrounding his heart, revealing a flash of red…

----

SF: Hey, you know you guys love me! I give you the 'Kissing' song, a fight scene, a tub scene and a bed scene all in one chapter. Ya'll know I'm, like, loving ya'll right!

Inu-chan: What did she just say?

Kagome: That's southern for 'I hope you liked it!'

Inu-chan: Oh.

Sango: Didn't you understand her?

Inu-chan: Nope. Don't speak stupid.

>Zap!<

SF: You have to do that every chapter, don't you?

Inu-chan: {::cough::} I'm kinda hoping to slip one by you.

SF: {::rolls her eyes::} You can't slip anything by me, dog boy. Now behave yourself. The review responses are below.

Chapter Twenty-One: Closer to You

(Holy sh*t! 21 chapters! Everybody get drunk and do the hula!)

Is it no wonder I wake up screaming?…."Has anyone told you that you were a jackass, Sesshoumaru?" …Sesshoumaru paused, his mind digesting the fact that he was the one she dreamed of, the reason for the broken-hearted tears. … He smiled, a pretty young woman with chin-length hair coming to mind. 'Perfect,' he said with an evil grin. 'Just perfect…'