InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Youkai Society ❯ Shattered Soul ( Chapter 6 )

Aha! Thank you for all your reviews everyone! This is a long chapter and it became hard to look over it for mistakes because of its length… I hope I didn't make to many. Enjoy the story!

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Kagome winced her head throbbing painfully as she tried to detangle herself from Sesshoumaru's crushing grasp. 'What's going on!?' She thought franticly, becoming fully aware of Sesshoumaru's anger. Surely he didn't think what happened just then was her fault? Or even if it was, that she did it intentionally! "Sesshoumaru-" Her breath was squeezed from her lungs, when he tightened his hold on her. Panicked Kagome dug her nails into his arm. 'Oh my god! I cant breath!!!'

Weakly Kagome thrashed her Kimono pulling open in all the struggle, pressing her bare flesh against his. Swallowing thickly Kagome barely noticed. "Sess-Sesshou-Sesshoumaru!" He did not reply like she had hopped he would. If it was at all possible he seemed to pull her even closer. Catching sight of his pulsing red eyes Kagome quickly became aware of his lack of control. 'I'm going to die!' She thought as the blackness ebbed into her vision.

Her breasts pressed tightly against his chest, as it rumbled in low threatening growls. Kagome felt her body slacking against him, her arms falling limply to her sides, her head lolling backward. Using what little breath she had left she pleaded uselessly. "P-please Sesshou- I-I cant breath."…

Sesshoumaru's hot breath hit her in ragged huffs against her exposed throat as he fought to regain control of his demon blood. Realization slowly worked its way into his mind and he loosened his hold on her slightly, allowing her to draw in a much needed breath. The red in his eyes began to fade and he staggered backward against the wall, sliding down with her in his hold.

Gently embracing her trembling form against him, he nuzzled his nose into the curve of her neck inhaling her scent deeply. She smelt sweetly of a cherry blossom in full bloom on a spring morning, kissed in the sunrise. Her scent was untouched by his half brother, and he wondered if he had ever smelt it on her in the first place. 'No.' He had smelt it, and it had awoken his demon instincts with his sudden rush of rage. 'How is it possible, that I, Sesshoumaru, would smell my wretched half brother on my mate…while he is certainly dead?'

Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed in anger. 'Even with your death Inuyasha, you still interfere with my life. Is it that, I Great Demon Lord of the West, live in your shadow?' The thought was ridiculous and yet it had a certain ring of truth. His wench was keeping Inuyasha alive with her memories!

He squeezed his eyes shut, allowing his hair to fall over the both of them. He was scared. Scared of the hanyou for the second time in his life. This time worse then the first, the first time being when he first caught wind of his brothers full demon blood. Not that he would ever admit it, but the Great Demon Lord was afraid of losing his mate, of losing Kagome.

Kagome slowly relaxed, the warmth of his body sinking into her own flesh. His body lolling her as he rocked her gently like a child in need of comforting on top his lap. Her ribs ached and her chest burned where he had unmercifully crushed her. Why had he attacked her? Kagome stiffened slightly at the memory. Would he do it again? Was it safe to let him hold her like this? Her voice didn't tremble despite her nervousness as she questioned him. "Sesshoumaru…why did you attack me." It sounded weak and pathetic to her own ears. Almost like she was whining. "I-I thought you were really going to kill me."…

In response he pushed an apologetic kiss against her temple, which she pulled away from. Sighing he wished for his heart to slow down to its normal pace. It was beating irregularly, the sensation odd and misplaced. A Demon Lord was not supposed to feel like this, experience weak human emotions such as fear. Sesshoumaru pulled her kimono closed as he settled her against his chest. She molded, fitting against him like a long lost puzzle piece.

Sesshoumaru's voice was gruff, muffled slightly as he spoke into her hair. "This Sesshoumaru would never dishonor himself to the point of killing his own mate." He hoped she would let him be with that answer.

Kagome pressed on, hitting her hand against his chest in emphasis. "But 'why' did you attack me?" Her tone was begging, it was obviously important to her.

Sesshoumaru gritted his teeth briefly, experiencing yet again another foreign emotion. Uncertainty and shame, yet he blocked all emotion from his voice. "My demon blood was angered. Kagome my brothers scent clung to the very air around you after those moments… I do not like being left in the dark, what occurred was unexplainable."

Kagomes heart clinched. "In-Inuyasha? His scent was on me? So…I wasn't dreaming." Her mind jarred at the impact, and Kagome lay stunned beneath the Demon Lord. He had pinned her the moment the words left her mouth, she had not meant to say that aloud. Kagome fearfully looked up at him, the anger clearly written on his face confirmed his displeasure in her words.

Sesshoumaru kept his demon urges carefully in check. He would not lose control again, however tempting it may be. His demand left no room for argument. "Explain yourself wench."

Flinching Kagome swallowed thickly, wetting her lips in apprehension. "I-I'm not entirely sure on what happened myself. When the Shikon was sucked into my body I heard the voices of the people I love." Kagome briefly winced when he tightened his grip, his nails digging into her soft flesh. "My mother…I heard my mother and brother, and my grandfather, I heard friends I haven't seen in a long time… I also heard Inuyasha."

Sesshoumaru was not pleased. If Inuyasha truly had contacted her from beyond the grave he would need to know everything. He would take no chances of his brother returning like the other undead miko. Not that the Great Sesshoumaru feared him, but he feared the effect it would have on Kagome when he was forced to kill him yet again. He felt a fierce protectiveness for her, no one would take her from him. He kept his voice even and controlled. "Kagome tell me exactly what Inuyasha said to you."

Kagome carefully regarded the Demon Lord hovering above her. She noticed right off the jealousy that flickered in his golden eyes. It was none of his business, and telling him what Inuyasha had said would only upset him further. So she lied flat out in the Demon Lords face. "It wasn't anything important and most of its fuzzy now. I cant quite remember enough of it to explain it to you."

Sesshoumaru easily detected the faint scent of her fear and growled dangerously. "Your lying." Sesshoumaru all but spat at her.

Kagome silently cursed his demon senses fidgeting nervously beneath him. "Sesshoumaru I do remember but they were memories mostly. What happened was a personal experience that I'd like to keep to myself."

Sesshoumaru felt his patience slipping and curled his lips back in distaste. "Wench I am not giving you a choice in the matter. You will tell me, and you will tell me now."

He was infuriating! Kagome turned her head to the side in her anger. 'You will tell me, and you will tell me now!' She mocked him snottily in her mind. She felt his slender fingers grip her harshly by the chin pulling her face back to him.

"Now." He repeated, bruising her slightly with his unforgiving grip.

Seething Kagome didn't bother trying to escape his grasp and glared up into his eyes. "Like I said, they were memories. I heard the first time Inuyasha told me he loved me. I could almost feel him touching me, holding me the first time we kissed. I remembered the look on his face when he saw our newborn sons. He told me…he said he would always be with me." Kagome sneered at him. "And he is. In my heart Inuyasha will always be with me!"

Sesshoumaru snarled trying to block out the emotions her words stirred inside of him. He found the effort useless upon seeing her smug expression, the bitch knew what she was doing to him. Crushing his lips down against hers he held her immobile. He felt her jerk uselessly in her attempts for freedom but he was unyielding. She knew better then to talk to him like that.

He wanted to feel her against him, his need for her was overtaking him in powerful waves. Roughly parting her thighs with his knee he ripped open her kimono, reviling her perfect breasts. He lowered his head to them, capturing her right breast in a punishing nip. The taste of her reassuring him that she was indeed his for as long as he desired.

Kagome hissed in pain sinking her fingers in his silky hair jerking his head away from her. Sesshoumaru responded with a stunning slap to her left cheek, his eyes blazing in warning. Another whimper of pain rippled through Kagomes body as she arched her back involuntarily under Sesshoumaru's assault. 'He's punishing me!' Kagome realized.

Kagome twisted her face away desperately trying to wriggle away from him, her upper body twisting to the side. "Stop! Sesshoumaru don't!" Her breath hitched in her throat in a pained sob when he replied with a bruising bite. "D-Don't punish me for doing what you told me to!"

Sesshoumaru snarled against her throat forcing her roughly down on her back again. "Be silent wench."

"No! I'll hate you if you punish me this way!" Kagome felt him hesitate before sinking his teeth deeply into her shoulder. "I'll hate you!" She all but screamed in his ear.

Sesshoumaru braced himself above her reading the truth of her words in her eyes. Shoving himself up he stood panting, the taste of her blood still mingled teasingly on his tongue. "Wench I know not what you think. But know this, I will never let you escape your responsibilities to me. You belong to me, now and forever. Even in your death you will be mine."

Flushing with anger and embarrassment Kagome jerked her kimono closed. "Sesshoumaru I have not tried to escape you yet. I wont lie seeing as that's pointless with your… enhanced senses. I do not want to be here with you, but I will not run." Kagome stumbled to her feet a safe distance away from him and continued bravely. "As for my responsibilities to you? I know that part of being mated is the sex!" She winced. "But understand this, I will not let you use me. I was born for more important things then to lie on my back! I will never be able to accept this if you deny me a life with a meaning!"

Sesshoumaru regarded her carefully. He had been angry with her, but the anger was replaced with a small amount of understanding. Slowly circling her he tapped her lightly under her chin raising her eyes to meet his. "Then tell me, what is it you require to give your life meaning?"

Kagome stiffened. She hadn't expected him to be so open to her demands. He stood before her now, his golden eyes softening slightly as he gently cupped her chin. His voice held no resentment, in fact it sounded almost as if he purred out his reply. Kagome wetted her lips in uncertainty. 'Was this a trick…?' "I-I need to be trusted, I need freedom, and I need love." Kagome stumbled slightly over the last requirement. How could he give her love?

Something flashed in his golden depths, burning brightly before fading back to their usual coolness. "Very well. However, in return I require your obedience, honesty, and loyalty." He replied smoothly.

Again Kagome was surprised at his behavior. "I-I think…I can agree to that." 'Great Kagome…real slick.' He smiled and Kagome felt her heart flutter with both fear and amazement.
Sesshoumaru moved past her going over to her dresser pulling out a lovely teal gown. "Get dressed in something more appropriate, we have things to discuss." He held the gown out to her watching as she carefully took it from him.

Kagome placed her back to him holding the gown out in front of her. It truly was beautiful, the color alone was enough to amaze anyone with its beauty. The gown consisted of two layers, the under layer was pure silk while the outer layer seemed to be made of a shimmering sheer material.

Well aware of his eyes burning into her back, Kagome stiffly removed the tattered kimono, letting to fall to her ankles in a heap. Studying the gown Kagome attempted to slip it over her head only to get the two layers tangled together. Blushing Kagome straitened it and tried it again, this time successful. It felt wonderful against her skin, the silk of the gown clinging to her in glossy caresses, while the outer layer fluttered elegantly around her. The sleeves were long but lose at the end falling down in the peasant style. The gown was cut to show off her milky white shoulders while concealing her chest modestly.

Kagome turned half expecting him to be standing there leering at her, but to her surprise she found him to be in the process of dressing himself. It was slightly ironic how it turned out to be her leering at him, her eyes roaming his perfectly sculpted body before he concealed it inside an elegant kimono. He caught her gaze and repaid it by smiling with his glittering gold eyes. Embarrassed at being caught watching him, Kagome flushed ten shades of red quickly adjusting her attention elsewhere. Clearing her throat Kagome fingered the material of her gown. "So, what now?"

Sesshoumaru took her lightly by her elbow leading her out of his chambers. "Now we make a brief appearance. Were you aware that there are still two days of our banquet?"

With a small 'yes', Kagome worked the tangles from her hair half listening to him. She was sure she looked devilish.

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Kouga leaned against the wall deep in thought. Never before had he had so many responsibilities, all important and needing to be dealt with so soon. He was worried about Kagome. She was no longer his responsibility but it didn't feel that way to him. 'Do I still love her…even after she betrayed me for Inuyasha?' Of course he did, he probably always would love her in someway. After all she was his first love, she had a certain light that could bring warmth into anyone's heart. Youkai's or Human. Maybe that made her important to the cold hearted Lord of the West.

He could not defeat Sesshoumaru, and had no wish to dishonor himself by trying. Kouga sighed shutting his eyes while sipping his wine. Still if he found out Sesshoumaru held true to the cruel rumors of his treatment to humans, Kouga would not just stand there and watch it.

Suddenly her scent filled the room, her pure scent that drove him to search her out hungrily with his eyes. He saw her standing beside the cool Demon Lord, her arm wrapped tightly in his. She looked so fragile, more so then she usually did. She had a weak smile on her face. Her beautiful face that was now marred with a growing blue bruise on her left cheek. Kouga's eyes hardened at the sight.

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Kagome desperately wanted to go talk to Kouga. She had caught him watching her with an odd look and she was worried. Had something happened to him? Did he have something to tell her? She was going to go insane if she couldn't find out soon! She looked up at Sesshoumaru who looked to be busy talking to another odd looking demon in hushed tones. 'How rude! Speaking in another language in front of me, knowing I cant understand.' Gathering up her courage Kagome interrupted their small chatter, tugging lightly on Sesshoumaru's arm. "Sesshoumaru do you mind if I go off by myself for a little while? I promise to stay in the room."

Sesshoumaru frowned excusing himself from the other demon before turning all his attention to Kagome. "If you stray from this room my trust in you will be swayed. Understand?"

Kagome hurriedly nodded untangling her arm from him and scurrying off. She could feel him watching her and sighed mentally. Finding Kouga was harder then she thought it would be. There were so many demons in the room, and most of them towered a couple good feet above Kagome. It was all pretty unnerving. Finally Kagome spotted him leaning against a large window. 'Poor Kouga…he looks so tiered.' She hurried over to him.

Kouga felt her approaching and immediately straitened taking her hands in his as he always did. "Ah Kagome! Are you alright? I've been wanting to talk to you all night." He marveled at her beauty finding her more breathtaking up close. Was it his imagination, or was Kagome becoming more beautiful each day? He studied her closely, unnoticing her nervousness as he did so. Kouga pulled back startled. "K-Kagome, you've changed!"

Kagome felt extremely anxious under his intense gaze. "I-I'm not sure I understand what you mean Kouga."…

Kouga dragged her over to a small mirror determined to get her to see it for herself. "There, take a look Kagome. I'm sure I'm not imaging this."

Now more worried then ever for Kouga's health, Kagome did as he asked. Carefully looking in the mirror herself Kagome felt her eyes widen in surprise her mouth forming a small 'o'. 'D-Did the Shikon Jewel do this?' Kagome timidly touched her skin under her eyes in awe. "K-Kouga! My eyes! T-there different!"

Kouga nodded silently, his eyes raking over her body. 'That's not all that changed…' Shaking his head clear of those thoughts Kouga gave her a weak smile. "Don't worry Kagome, you look as lovely as ever."

Kagome straitened herself, moving away from the mirror, her arm wrapping around Kouga's for support. "K-Kouga I think the Shikon Jewel caused this change in me… You see my soul sort of absorbed the Shikon Jewel, these are probably the aftereffects." Aware of the odd look he gave her, Kagome gritted her teeth. 'I sound like a looney.'

Leading her to a secluded corner Kouga helped her to a seat. "Kagome…I've been worried about you." To prove his point the lightly touched her bruised cheek. "Is…is he treating you horrible Kagome?"

Wincing Kagome gently removed his hand from her face. "Kouga…things haven't been easy for either of us. Sesshoumaru hasn't been exactly nice…but he hasn't been completely heartless with me either."

Kouga sighed fingering a strand of her dark raven hair. "I just hate to see you being mistreated Kagome…you deserve better. I-I'm afraid for you."

Kagome looked down at her hands. Kouga always was so sweet with her. She wished she could love him the way he did her… But the chemistry just wasn't there. All the nice guys she ever had in her life could never attract her attention the way a man should a woman. Hojo had always been a sweetheart to her as well. "I think things will get better for me one day Kouga."

Kouga nodded. "I truly hope so Kagome… I just want you to know that I'm here for you. I'm not afraid of that overgrown mutt."

Kagome laughed halfheartedly patting Kouga's hand with mild affection. "Thank you Kouga, that means allot to me."

Kouga grinned wolfishly capturing her hand in his. "Say Kagome! How about a dance?"

Kagome found herself being pulled out of her seat and lead over to the dance floor before she had a chance to reply. "Kouga… I'm not sure if I know exactly how to dance properly in this Era…"

He looked at her strangely coming to a stop in the middle of the dancing couples. "Don't worry Kagome, I'll teach you!"

Kagome nodded uncertainty forcing herself to relax from her ridged stance as Kouga positioned her properly. Kagome stumbled a little at first but soon caught the hang of it. "Like this Kouga?" Kagome laughed twirling into his arms, her hair flying out wildly behind her. 'This is fun!' She thought happily.

Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes in distaste. That wolf cub had been getting a little to cozy with Kagome. Sesshoumaru watched with growing annoyance as she flung herself into the wolfs arms. He silently told himself they were merely dancing, but his jealous pride got the better of him. Restraining himself, Sesshoumaru waited until the dance was over before swiftly strolling over to the still embracing couple.

"Kagome." Sesshoumaru voiced his presence. She was startled. He could tell in the way she nearly jumped into the wolfs arms all over again. Sesshoumaru held out his hand to her, beckoning her with his index finger. She detangled herself reluctantly from the wolf whispering a few words to her companion before casting him away.

Timidly Kagome handed Sesshoumaru her hand, wincing when he closed his around hers in a viselike grip. Kagome knew immediately something had angered him and leaned into his side running her other hand in apologetic circles against his forearm. "Thank you Sesshoumaru I really appreciate the time you gave me to myself-."

Sesshoumaru growled leading her swiftly away from the festivities. "Be silent."

Kagome instantly stiffened in fear her hand stopping its playful caresses. 'I-is he mad at me?!' Kagome recognized the hall they were currently walking through as the one with the family pictures. Sure enough he came to a stop in front of that same heavy door, effortlessly opening it. Kagome rubbed her sore wrist as she waited for him to turn on a light.

Sesshoumaru took a seat in a large chair gesturing for her to do the same. Nervously Kagome avoided his eyes and sat on the edge of the seat just incase a problem should arise she would be ready to bolt. "Sesshou-."

Again he cut her off, his tone harsh and egotistical. "Be silent."

So Kagome quickly shut her mouth, once again waiting on him to speak. 'Figures…not to speak unless spoken to.' The silence cut loudly into her thoughts leaving her unsure on what to do. Perhaps an hour passed before he said anything at all, but when he did… Kagome wasn't sure if she was happy to hear it.

Sesshoumaru glared frostily in her direction, setting her on fire and chilling her to the bone all at the same time. "Do you find pleasure in another mans arms, Kagome?"

"Sess-." Kagome started.

Cutting her off Sesshoumaru held his hand up in the air. "Be silent. It would be in your best interests if you did not speak." Sesshoumaru stood slowly, menacingly. "If Kouga was not a necessary ally, he would be lying in a pool of his own worthless blood, dead at my feet." He regarded how she stiffened to the threat. "I think, it is past time you came clean with me about your past, Kagome. I want to know of your relationship with the wolf, where your home is, and all the secrets you've been keeping from me."

Unsure if he wanted her to speak, she simply nodded her agreement. Apparently that was the right move. Sesshoumaru made a pleased noise returning to his seat. "Ok, tell me firstly about Kouga. What was he to you?"

Kagome fidgeted under his heavy gaze. "Kouga was always a good friend of mine. He and Inuyasha never really got along… Mostly because Kouga used to have a small infatuation with me. Although it was one sided."

Sesshoumaru studied her closely looking for any traces of deceit. "That's all?" Kagome nodded silently. 'Geez, talk about overprotective.'

"Alright, then Kagome where did you live? Your old home." It seemed to Kagome Sesshoumaru liked to point out, that her new home was here with him, in his castle every chance he got.

Not sure how to tell him she lived 500 years in the future Kagome chewed on her lower lip lost in thought. "Pay really close attention to my scent Sesshoumaru… Your going to have a hard time believing this isn't a lie." Under his questioning gaze Kagome continued. "You see… I'm from the future, 500 years to be exact." Kagome stopped to judge his reaction. He looked genuinely surprised, his mask slipping briefly. "Anyway at my home there's this old well that transports me back to the feudal era, 500 years in the past. But to travel between the dimensions I require a piece of the Shikon jewel."

Stretching slightly Kagome sighed, retelling this story got so old after awhile. She explained everything to the best of her abilities about herself and the Shikon Jewel. After she was sure she hadn't missed any important details Kagome was finally able to end the story, three long hours of explanations later.

Sesshoumaru sat with his normal perfect posture, his face expressionless. No wonder he had always had a certain fascination with this girl, she was amazing. "Tell me of the future, Kagome. Do youkai rule?"

Oh how she wanted to lie to him. Kagome winced afraid of what his action might be. "Actually…No. Up until a few years ago I wasn't sure if there were youkai in my timeline. You see, many Youkai are in hiding, or at least, they stay unnoticed. But there have been incidents of youkai attacking me in my timeline for pieces of the Shikon."

Sesshoumaru frowned at the little tidbit of information. "Low class youkai obviously. I would like to see your home, the future."

Kagome immediately stiffened. There was no way she wanted Sesshoumaru running around in her time… Not with his attitude and extremely hazardous tendencies… "Sesshoumaru, times have changed allot over 500 years. If you were to go to my time, you would not be allowed to act as you do here there. Humans do not have much physical strength compared to youkai, but we have technology. If you don't know what your up against… It could be dangerous."

He regarded her with a hint disdain. "I was not asking. I Sesshoumaru, Lord of the Western Lands, think I can hold my own against a village of Humans." He stuck his nose up arrogantly. "You will take me."

Kagome sighed in defeat. "One small problem. In order to go to the future we would need a Shikon Shard."

Sesshoumaru frowned at that. "Well then, after the battle with Naraku I will take his Shikon Shards and we will go visit your time." The way he said it left no room for disagreements. His word was not debatable. 'Like it ever is anyway.'

Kagome huffed irritated. "Is that all? I do not have any more secrets besides the Shikon."

Sesshoumaru stood caging her against the chair with his towering form. "It is important Kagome, that in the future should something occur, you do not keep it from me."

Kagome nodded slightly. "Sesshoumaru…" She paused uncertain. "Sesshoumaru, I would like to be included with the plans against Naraku."

Snorting Sesshoumaru pushed away from her, looking down his nose at her tiny figure. "We went over this. I will not have you, an inexperienced human female, in the midst's of such a dangerous battle."

Astonished Kagome pushed herself up from the chair. "Inexperienced?! Excuse me for not reminding you sooner of my battle experience. I have improved greatly since our last fight with one another, Sesshoumaru."

Sesshoumaru's slanted eyes narrowed further. "Are you defying me, Kagome?"

Her mouth running dry Kagome shook her head desperately. "Proving my point is not defiance! If you will not let me near the battle, at least allow me to help out in the plans for it! I do know a lot of Naraku's fighting style, my information could prove helpful!"

Sesshoumaru gritted his teeth, his headache strengthening. "I will permit you to accompany me tonight. If you should displease me with childish antics, it will be the last time."

Kagome was tempted to roll her eyes. 'The nerve of him! Childish antics.' She snorted under her breath.

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Naraku was livid with anger to say the least. He wanted to know what was going on, but was having trouble finding trustworthy resources. They would all pay. Aware he was being watched, Naraku hissed in displeasure sending the flock of birds fleeing off to the west. His eye twitched. The west? It seemed to Naraku, a good place to start looking for answers would be in that very direction. Where a certain Demon Lord resided. Naraku knew without a doubt, the miko was behind this. A miko named Kagome.

Naraku let out a growl of annoyance. That human miko, reincarnation of Kikyo, awoke something inside of him besides his anger. It had nothing to do with Onigumo's love for Kikyou, but something Naraku himself wanted. It wasn't love but he desired the power of the living priestess. Desired her power to the point of lust. While at the same time he lusted for Kikyou in a similar way due to Onigumo's heart beating within his chest.

Perhaps he would keep both the miko's after this was all over with. They would make charming puppets he decided with a inner grin. So Naraku set out to the west.

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Kagome froze in disbelief. 'Kikyou!? What is she doing here!' Kagome had thought Kikyou returned to hell, after her disappearance. Kagome's miko power swirled around her and she trembled.

Kikyou regarded Kagome thoughtfully. It was true she had hated the young miko from the beginning. Her replacement, the woman that possessed half her soul. She looked different now however… Still the similarity's were uncanny. Unable to get over the change in Kagome, Kikyou narrowed her eyes in annoyance. It wasn't as much as she looked different…but she felt different. Something,… something powerful and ancient radiated from her…from her soul? What was it… Kikyou was unable to put her finger on it.

Kikyou was startled from her thoughts and she fell to her knees. She felt so weak suddenly…then it occurred to her of what was transpiring. The miko, Kagome! She was sucking her soul out of her… desperately Kikyou was forced to use a great deal of her strength to pull her soul back into her being. Panting for breath Kikyou eyed the miko silently, not daring to voice her accusations. Kikyou noticed with disbelief the young miko wasn't even aware of what she had just attempted. 'Is…is she truly that powerful!?'

Fearfully aware of the power the miko possessed Kikyou straitened. It would take a lot of her power to withhold her soul that so desperately wished to reunite with her reincarnation. Amazing, she thought dully.

Kagome blinked stiffening under the intense gazes of many youkai in the room. 'What…what just happened!?' Shaking herself in an attempt to free herself from the miko energy that tingled throughout her body. It was becoming harder to withhold her power lately. Something was going to happen… Kagome could feel it. Her body was preparing for something, something that had been destined for her even before her birth. Was that possible? She trembled uncontrollably, ridding herself from her thoughts.

Kagome's mouth ran dry and she returned her attention to Kikyou. "Kikyou…? What,… what's happening to us?" She was scared, it was evident in her voice.

Kikyou shook her head sternly. "Not us, you, Kagome."

Sesshoumaru felt confusion push past his brink of limitation and growled. "Speak now of any information you know about what has transpired."

Lord Ruuoa stood clearing his throat. "Lord Sesshoumaru… I may have a brief idea, although… It seems highly unlikely."

Sesshoumaru turned his burning gaze on the Dragon Demon, who stood bravely at the edge of the table. "Then speak Lord Ruuoa."

Lord Ruuoa nodded pleasantly smiling reassuringly. "As you know, I am very, very old. Back in my younger years… There was a beautiful miko, Midoriko. She was known vastly for both her beauty and power.

Many wished to have Midoriko as their own, as special as she was… It mattered not that she was human. She was often attacked both by youkai and humans, for they wished to test her power. Midoriko never lost a battle, she was unbeatable for many years.

However, in one battle, Midoriko was attacked by a swarm of vengeful, powerful demons. She fell, but not entirely in defeat. Midoriko was wise and brave." Lord Ruuoa spoke fondly of her with a small smile, sitting back down before continuing. "So brave… that woman. It is sad of what became of her… You see, the only way she could think of to save those she fought for, was to sacrifice herself."

Kagome sat silently entranced by the story hanging onto his every word. Somehow… the story touched her deeply, it seemed very familiar to her. She could almost relate to Midoriko.

Lord Ruuoa gestured for everyone to sit as well before continuing with his story. "She purified the lot of demons, capturing their souls to prevent them from doing further harm… However her soul was also caught. The end result of the battle was the Shikon no Tama. Her heart became the jewel, while her soul and the souls of the demons, ended up stuck inside.

It is rumored they still continue to fight inside the jewel, where no harm can come to the innocent." Lord Ruuoa stroked his chin in thought. "Still, I wonder if that is completely true. Those who possessed the Shikon no Tama, always seemed to have death befall them. The Shikon no Tama is a dangerous jewel, it can be used for good, but the demon souls locked inside… Well, due to the demon souls, the jewel is easily corrupted." Sadly Lord Ruuoa shook his head. "It is a shame… Such a woman."

Unable to see the connection with what that had to do with her Kagome wriggled helplessly in her seat, her eyes darting from Lord Ruuoa, to Kikyou, then back to Lord Ruuoa. "Lord Ruuoa." Kagome caught his attention hesitantly, hoping Sesshoumaru would not be angered at her for speaking out. "Lord Ruuoa… Please, I do not see how that explains what is happening to me." Kagome blushed nervous under all the stares she received for her outburst.

Lord Ruuoa chuckled thickly and richly. "Ah what a charming girl Lord Sesshoumaru! Tell me, Kagome is it? What is your connection to Kikyou." His eyes sparkled mischievously.

Kagome looked to Kikyou again, feeling her eyes burn into her in return. "Kikyou…" Taking a deep breath Kagome sucked up her nerves, hoping they would not think her crazy. "I am Kikyo's reincarnation. She died fifty years ago but was brought back to life by an old witch, Urasue. However Kikyou was nothing more then a shell, her soul was unable to be returned because…, because it was reborn in me. Urasue discovered that I was the reincarnate and put my soul into Kikyou, however I was able to draw some of my soul back to my body. We now share the same soul Lord Ruuoa."

Lord Ruuoa had an odd gleam in his eye. "It would seem to me, your soul is very large and powerful. May I inquire from you about your connection to the Shikon Jewel?"

Kikyou spoke out before Kagome could have a chance to answer. "Allow me to explain something about myself and the jewel before Kagome mentions anything more. Fifty years ago I was the protector of the Shikon no Tama. I protected it until my death, before I died however, I asked my younger sister Kaede to burn the Jewel along with my body. She did so and the Jewel disappeared for fifty years. Then… Kagome appeared, and suddenly around that time so did the Shikon no Tama." Kikyou eyed Kagome, silently sending her a message of contempt.

Kagome winced under the look, happily looking to Lord Ruuoa's more kinder face. "Kikyou is right… Lord Ruuoa, it was my fault the jewel is in its current state. I was born unknowing of my miko heritage until my fifteenth birthday, where it was discovered the jewel was inside me." Kagome pointed to her hip nervously. "A centipede demon tore it from my body, and after that I became its protector. Until a crow swallowed it and in an attempted to reacquire the Shikon, I shot the bird and ended up not only hitting the bird but the Shikon no Tama inside of it. The jewel shattered, the fragments scattering into different directions across the lands." Kagome was careful to leave out any mention of Inuyasha, knowing what a sensitive subject it was with Sesshoumaru. She had a feeling she was in enough trouble as it was.

Lord Ruuoa made a pleased sound, catching Kagomes attention. The other demons remained respectfully silent, waiting for their chance to speak. Question and surprise written on most of their expressions. While others, like Sesshoumaru, remained unfazed.

Lord Ruuoa cleared his throat. "Kagome, that supplies more defense to my theories connecting you to Midoriko. You see the Shikon no Tama was formed by Midorikos heart, soul, and the souls of the demons she trapped. The fact that you were reborn with the Shikon no Tama inside your being gives me the impression that the Jewel was meant to be a part of you."

Kagome had been trying to understand but she still felt hopelessly lost. "I don't think I understand you completely Lord Ruuoa…"

Patently Lord Ruuoa continued. "I was not finished explaining Kagome." His voice ringing teasingly. "Before I continue I should mention that Midoriko, like you Kagome, also possessed a large soul. While most of it was indeed trapped inside the Shikon no Tama, it is strongly possible that some of Midorikos soul escaped.

Enough so that she could be reincarnated… Kikyou could have been a reincarnation of Midoriko, but when you Kagome were reborn the Shikon no Tama was born along with you. In a sense Midoriko lives on through the Shikon no Tama, which became a part of you. It is possible that your soul Kagome, has been trying to reconnect with its former self. Slowly draining the Shikon no Tama of Midorikos trapped soul, and reforming it with your own."

Kagome was clearly startled. "You… You mean that I am a incomplete reincarnation of Midoriko?"

Lord Ruuoa nodded lightly. "It is possible Lady Kagome. In time… should your soul reform into what it was meant to be, you will become whole. You will acquire your potential power. Right now.. Your soul is like the Shikon no Tama, shattered."

Sesshoumaru growled angrily. "Should her soul be complete, would it change who she is now?"

Lord Ruuoa turned a calming gaze onto Sesshoumaru, attempting to sooth his anger. "Calm down Lord Sesshoumaru, Kagome will still be Kagome."

Kagome rubbed her temples thinking to herself. 'Could it be true?' The whole idea was exciting, Kagome had often felt like something was missing from her life. Had it been part of her soul all this time? Was that the reason she was sent back into the feudal era? To complete her soul? Absentmindedly Kagome pressed her fingers to her chest, her body humming with her miko power.

Kikyou winced feeling the tug at her soul once again. She would have to be careful around Kagome, letting her guard down could result in the lose of her soul, her death. Kikyou suddenly believed every word of Lord Ruuoa's words, Kagome's soul was trying to complete itself. Kikyo's struggles did not go unnoticed, and the other lords leaned back in their chairs thoughtfully.

Sesshoumaru broke the silence. "Enough of this talk, right now we must continue our plans."

Lord Ruuoa nodded. "Yes but…" He hesitantly continued, knowing how protective Lord Sesshoumaru was of his mate. "It might be a wise idea to bring Lady Kagome with us to battle-"

Sesshoumaru quickly cut him off. "Absolutely not." Sesshoumaru's whole demeanor rung with warning to anyone who went against his word.

Amused Lord Ruuoa ignored the warning and pressed on. "Please Lord Sesshoumaru, hear me out. If my theories are correct, if Kagome comes into a certain distance of the Shikon no Tama, her soul should absorb it, along with the power. Without the Shikon no Tama, Naraku would hardly be worth our effort. In fact I could take him on myself, it would be a good workout for these old bones!" He stretched in emphasis.

Kagome stifled a giggle her hands going to cover her mouth. "Sesshoumaru-." She was cut off.

Snarling Sesshoumaru stood, his face contorted in anger. "No. I will not risk the life of my mate. We can do this without putting her life into danger. Do not question me further."

The giggles instantly vanished and Kagome sobered. "Sesshoumaru I can handle it! I-I think that Lord Ruuoa could be correct. Remember? I already absorbed part of the Shikon no Tama into my being. Naraku wont be able to complete it any longer!"

Sesshoumaru ignored her his attention focused on the other members of the group. "If you will excuse me I will return shortly after taking Kagome to bed, it has been a very tiring day for her." He turned to her, his eyes burning with unsuppressed rage. "Kagome, say your farewells."

Stiffening in her own anger Kagome mumbled her goodbyes as pleasantly as her mood would allow. She yelped painfully as Sesshoumaru dragged her from the room with a crushing grip. Hearing a chair crash to the ground she turned as well as she could in Sesshoumaru's hold. Kouga had leapt to his feet, murder clearly written on his face. Desperate to keep him from doing something that would result in his own death, she shook her head no, pleading him with her eyes as she was jerked completely from the room. Kagome was having a hard time keeping up with Sesshoumaru's pace as he dragged her down the halls to her room. "Sesshoumaru I-."

Silencing her with a growl he tightened his hold on her arm. "I warned you wench. Yet, still you openly defy me! You have poisoned their minds enough, I will not tolerate your presence at such meetings in the future."

Tears brimmed her eyes and she planted her feet firmly on the ground, the action forcing him to slow his pace. "I spoke the truth! I am not the weak human you are taking me for!"

Sesshoumaru continued down the hall her actions ineffective and only serving in raising the Lords anger another notch. "You will pick up your feet wench, I will not drag you like a child!" He snarled out.

Kagome hissed back in reply, both her hands tugging at his while she leaned even farther backward. 'I'll show him defiance!' She thought annoyed. 'Might as well defy the pompous ass if he's going to accuse me of it for every little argument.' "Treat me like a child, and I'll act like a child!" Was her brave retort.

Kagome's actions resulted in Sesshoumaru taking an undignified stumble as her foot hit the back of his. Red lined his vision, and again his anger rose a notch. She was pushing him over his limit of self control. He released her hand, allowing her to fall in a loud thump. Towering over her, Sesshoumaru noted the look of surprise that crossed her face and the wince of pain.

Startled Kagome heard rather then felt the air as it whooshed from her lungs leaving her breathless. It took her a moment to comprehend what had happened. 'He…he let me fall!'

He scowled distastefully at her before bending to scoop her up, tossing her over his shoulder. She was tempted to pound his back as he carried her kicking and screaming, but decided against the small death wish, and instead settled for knotting her hands tightly in his silver hair.

Sesshoumaru kicked her door open walking halfway across the room before detangling her from his person and tossing her across the other half of the room to land safely on the bed. "You will be asleep by the time I return for you." His voice dripped with a venom more toxic then his claws could ever possibly produce.

Kagome was still in the process of straitening, untangling herself from the top layer of her dress when Sesshoumaru stormed out of her room, slamming and locking her door from the outside. She huffed undignified, her dress had wrapped itself around her face during her struggle to stay perched on Sesshoumaru's shoulder to her flight across the room. "Your! Your such a pig!" She screamed after him, her voice ringing throughout the wing of the castle with a snobbish air. Almost ripping the dress from herself, Kagome smoothed a sleeping dress over her head, kicking the two layer dress away in resentment.

She settled beneath her covers, wondering what the others were talking about while she was locked away in her room. Because Sesshoumaru felt it was past her bed time. 'The nerve!' Her eyes glittered angrily in the dark. Kagome came to a realization. Sesshoumaru would always treat her like an inferior being. Unless,… unless she could prove to him how strong she truly was. She hadn't poisoned them with her words! She had merely agreed with Lord Ruuoa. Snorting she turned to look out the window, loosing herself in her thoughts while locking her eyes on the full moon.

Would she be able to return to the future if she absorbed the Shikon no Tama? Kagome forced the doubt from her mind. It had to let her! If she could only get into the future… Then Sesshoumaru would have no way to hurt her anymore. Kagome didn't think she could handle the physical and mental harassment of living with Sesshoumaru for the rest of her life. She did give Sesshoumaru her word that she would stay with him in the Sengoku Jidai, but what did her word mean to him? Obviously nothing, so she wouldn't let it mean anything to her either.

Sighing inaudibly Kagome clinched her eyes shut. It would be tricky… How on earth was she to get both Yasha and Sota safely with her to the bone eaters well, without Sesshoumaru stopping them? Maybe during the fight with Naraku? Kagome quickly scrubbed that thought from her mind. Leaving the Shikon no Tama behind would be like leaving part of herself behind as well.

Kagome's heart tightened, she missed her family. The homesickness was beginning to eat away at her from the inside out. Pressing her hands to her heart Kagome muffled a sob against her pillow, her sons. She missed them the most, never before had she been forced to be separated from them for so long. Did they think she abandoned them? The thought made her throat lock up tightly as she withheld her tears.

Opening her eyes unfocused Kagome looked wistfully to her window. A cloud had passed over the moon, but not enough to block out the gentle caress of its white glow. Just then the wind picked up, and a rose waved softly in front of the window. Wait rose? Kagome wrinkled her nose pushing herself up in her bed. Her room was on the second floor. Stumbling in the dark, Kagome pressed herself against the window. Along the outside wall to her room, grew thick healthy vines of red roses. They reminded Kagome of the vines she had to climb to get out of the well at the Sengoku Jidai.

Her eyes widened with a sudden thought. Could she climb down them to escape? Eyeing the window Kagome saw a heavy looking leaver that locked it shut. Cracking her knuckles she set out to work upon loosening it. After about twenty minutes of hard work, it creaked open upon rusty hinges. Holding her breath to see if anyone heard, she rolled her eyes at her silliness. Of course no one heard her, she was the only person in the wing. Besides, these thick walls were pretty effective at locking sounds within them.

Still better safe then sorry. So with that thought in mind Kagome slowly pushed the window open, pausing every now and then when it made a particularly loud noise in protest. After she made sure the window wouldn't come crashing down on her Kagome peeked her head outside, looking down the vine wall. Good. It went all the way down, she had been afraid she would have to jump a distance to the ground. She tested the strength of the vines with a few small jerks all the while careful not to fall out the window.

Kagome smiled to herself leaning back all the way into the room, sliding the window shut. 'Prefect!' Her mind was screaming. She wouldn't try just yet to escape, knowing she wouldn't get far. While they made plans about Naraku, she would make plans about her escape. After locking the window carefully, Kagome wiped the rust from her hands. She felt like a child who would set out to make their own, better play house, after being rejected from another playhouse by a group of children. Just to get one up on them. Snorting at the thought, she turned fully planning on falling asleep before Sesshoumaru returned only to bump into something hard.

Stumbling back Kagome blinked in the dark, hoping she wasn't seeing what she thought she was. Before her stood Sesshoumaru, his posture rigid, everything about him set firmly in place, unmoving. His calm mask was frozen in place, his hair slightly tangled, did not stir despite her panicked breaths blowing against it, his masculine lips relaxed in a frown. That's when she caught it, movement. Sesshoumaru's golden eyes danced with anger, the gold occasionally flashing with red. Kagome wanted to run, dive out the window and take her chances with gravity…

Cringing away Kagome felt her mouth run dry with anticipation, his eyebrows drew together in annoyance. She hated it when he just stood there, silently. Giving her time to think of thousands of horrible scenarios that he would use to punish her with.

Sesshoumaru had called the meeting to an end, wishing to return to Kagome's side and sooth her anger. His own anger had subsided, and he realized how rashly he had acted. Silently he had crept into her room, thinking her asleep. Sesshoumaru had decided to watch her for a while before waking her. It was normally comforting to see her sleep, she would appear so peaceful. The faint presence of her sadness drained away from her being leaving her flawless. She would be breathtaking to him at those moments, accepting to his gentle caresses he could bestow upon her while she slept in his arms, completely unaware.

When he entered her room, he noticed right off she was not where she should be. The scent of the rose gardens mixed with rust tickled his nose and he stiffened. There she was, clad in an thin nightdress her cute little rear pushed out in the air as she leaned out the window. 'Out the window. ' Sesshoumaru silently stalked over towards her, his jaw setting tightly. His heart tightened uncomfortably while he watched her. Then she laughed leaning back into the room, raising up on her toes briefly to shut the window.

It took a large amount of his self control to hold himself back from beating her. Beating the laughter out of the idea of escaping him. Sesshoumaru reassured himself she could not escape him, she would stay with him. Relaxing into silent anger, he waited for her to notice him.

He was half amused when she blindly walked into him, her beautiful eyes widening with horror. Oh yes, she knew she was caught. Sesshoumaru resisted jerking her back to him when she stumbled away trembling. He could still feel where she had pressed up against him, her unbound breasts heaving against his chest with her ragged breaths. Annoyed with himself he narrowed his eyes, glaring down at her.

Kagome was terrified he looked so angry. Slipping to her knees Kagome felt her shoulders slump in defeat. She could feel his heated glare burning into her, and wondered which was worse. Seeing or actually feeling the scalding touch of his eyes.

Sesshoumaru regarded her carefully, his eyes slowly trailing over her fragile form. If she didn't appear so beaten and broken, she would have taken his breath with her beauty. The way she twisted her body, wearing nothing but that damn flimsy nightdress awoke something stronger then his anger.

Growling in disgust with himself he quickly stooped, lifting her to her feet. Satisfied that she didn't resist he pulled her against his chest, cradling her within his embrace. Longing for his lost arm so he could hold her the way he wished. The scent of her salty tears urged him to hold her tighter, and he dipped his head kissing her lightly against her temple. "I want you to promise me something Kagome." His breath tickled her hotly against her neck.

In a state of shock Kagome numbly nodded, relishing the feel of the heat radiating from his body, warming her chilled flesh. Wasn't he mad at her? Kagome thought she had became rather good at judging his emotions, but this was nothing she would have expected.

Shutting his eyes Sesshoumaru paused uncertainly. "Promise me you will not betray my trust in you. Kagome I want you to tell me I don't have to worry about you leaving." 'Leaving me.' He added mentally.

Kagome stiffened in his arms, then slowly tried to free herself. She knew if she made that promise, she would most likely force herself to fallow through with it. Especially if he truly began to believe it. It would be better if she didn't make a promise she couldn't keep. "Sesshoumaru I-I cant promise you that, I-."

He growled his grip tightening from gentle to painful in a matter of seconds. He should have known she would throw it back in his face. Lately he was beginning to suspect if she intentionally wounded his pride. Perhaps she wasn't as innocent as she had let on. "Promise me, now Kagome."

Kagome began to fight franticly ignoring his warning growls. "Y-you don't understand, I cant just make you that promis-." She gasped in pain, his nails biting into her side.

Sesshoumaru didn't want to hear it. Her refusal to promise him what he requested confirmed his fear, she was planning on leaving him. Hissing he drug her over to her bed pinning her beneath him. "I don't have to understand you, wench. You have to understand me." His voice was harsh, unforgiving. "If you promise me now, I will forget your defiance on the matter."

Tears stuck wetly to her checks and Kagome looked past him up at the ceiling. Then in a softest voice she could muster she complied. "I-I promise."

Relief flooded throughout his body and he lightened his grip on her. Caressing her apologetically. "Kagome, you will make a good mother to our children." He pressed a kiss against her throat, lowering his hips to rest tightly over hers. "Your future Kagome, is with me." They were whispers against her heated flesh.

Swallowing thickly Kagome wondered if he knew how much he was upsetting her. She was trying to forget that he expected her to have his children, grow old and die with him. It wasn't exactly how she had planned out her life, and defiantly didn't expect it to grow on her anytime soon. And yet… She promised him. A strangled cry broke past her lips, ringing loudly in Sesshoumaru's ears.

Breaking away from her, Sesshoumaru quickly noted how distraught she was. Ignoring the dull ach in his chest he snarled in her face. "Is it that disgusting to you? My children? No, our children!?" He glared down at her accusingly.

Shaking her head franticly she squeezed her eyes shut. "Why does it matter to you what I think! Didn't you just say all that mattered was what you thought!?" She shouted out, trying to hide her vulnerability with anger.

Sesshoumaru captured her eyes with his, searching for something. His eyes hardened, apparently not liking what he saw. "That's right. Tell me Kagome, do you want anything with me? When you asked for love, did you really mean it?"

Taken aback Kagome rubbed the tears from her face. "I want love. Just not with you!" Wincing Kagome knew it was the wrong thing to say, but he had put her on the spot. He was a predator, he should have known what would happen when you corner your prey.

Sesshoumaru bared his teeth at her, reviling the glittering white fangs. "Youkai can not love. Unfortunately for you Kagome, your human. Humans seem to need love to survive from what I gathered." He barked out a harsh laugh. "You may not like belonging to me, but I have you, and your promise. I will not let you love another, Kagome. If you have to love, you will love me."

Irritated Kagome rubbed her eyes raw. She would wipe the tears away only to have them replace themselves. "Y-your disgusting!" Her breath hitched.

Sesshoumaru pushed away from her angrily, moving to the window. If she could hurt him then he had every right to hurt her. She was driving him insane, Sesshoumaru couldn't remember feeling rejection for a long time, that was until her. Pushing his hand against the cool surface of the window he watched her in its reflection. She was just beginning to sit up, her eyes burning with hatred. He winced inwardly and out. "Take it off." If she was going to hate him, it would be for a reason.

Stiffening Kagome knew what he was talking about, but denial gave her false hope. "What?" She tried to sound dangerous, but who was she kidding. Scare him?

He whirled around his eyes flashing. "Remove your Nightdress, or do you need me to help you?" Sesshoumaru began to unfasten his own kimono, letting it slip to the floor reviling him in all his glory. Fear jumped into her eyes and the anger grew stronger in his. She made no move to do as he asked, so he advanced his intent clear.

Kagome leapt to her own feet pointing an angry finger at him. "Don't touch me! I can take it off myself."

He growled. "I'm going to touch you. I didn't ask you to take it off just to look at you wench."

Putting her back to him Kagome tugged her nightdress off, folding it up neatly. Stealing her body as he pressed up against it, his arm forcing her backward against his chest. Her hands held shakily onto his wrist and forearm, dread eating away at her belly. 'Is this part of my fate too?! I will not let him take my pride.'

Kagome pushed herself around in his arms glaring bravely into his eyes. 'No fear Kagome. Show him no fear. You are stronger then him.' Steadying her breath Kagome pushed her palms firmly against his smooth chest. "No fear." She sounded angry. Not the tone she had been going for, but it would work.

Sesshoumaru welcomed her touch regardless if anger burned beneath it. Resentment was flashing through her eyes in swirls of purple, but she did not look afraid. No fear for him? He doubted she had meant to please him, but those were words he had longed to hear.

Lately he had been disgusted with himself. To know he could not live without her by his side, while she cowered in fear of him. Fear that pushed her to believe she had to escape him. Fear was contagious, she made him fear.

Kagome lifted her chin bravely. This time, she would not wait for him to break the silence. 'You can not break me Sesshoumaru. I am strong!' With that thought still on her mind, she leaned up and crushed her lips to his. Pushing all her anger and passion behind it while he jumped in surprise. 'I hate you.' Was her last coherent thought as she lost herself in the growing heat.

---

Naraku's mind swirled with uncountable emotions. Surely they all couldn't be his. Naraku was above feeling what was currently burning in his chest. Clinching his fingers in his baboon fur, he leaned back into the tree. The large dead tree that overlooked the Western Lords Castle. He was not afraid of the Western lord, or any of the other demons. No, instead he was afraid of the miko. He had glimpsed her looking from the window and ended up trapping himself in her beauty.

The power that radiated from her made his skin tingle, and his fingers twitch in want to reach out and touch her. Was this feeling for her more then lust? Or was this one of her spells. A spell to weaken him in the battle to come? He shook his head. This would not weaken him, Naraku would simply use it as a strength. His want to posses both the miko's as his own would add to his motivation.

Suddenly the spell was broken as she pulled away from the window, locking it. Naraku pushed his baboon pelt away from his face and inhaled the night air. Her scent lingered amongst the smell of roses.

Naraku was in the midst of enjoying the miko's scent when the Shikon no Tama hanging against his throat, began to react. Clamping his hand tightly around the Shikon, Naraku winced. The jewel was being purified. The miko's mere scent had enough magical essences to purify the Shikon shards. Amazing. With that realization, Naraku fled with the promise to return at daybreak.

---

Sesshoumaru caressed her back softly as she slept, a small smile tugging at his lips. She had been a little wildcat, her tiny human claws digging into his back. The heat and passion she showed him couldn't have possibly been an act. He didn't disgust her like she had claimed. The thought forced Sesshoumaru's lips into a larger smile.

Like she was missing part of her soul, he was missing part of his heart. She completed him. Maybe in time he would understand the meaning of love, that weak human emotion. It was to early to tell, but Sesshoumaru sensed a change in her. His heart tightened in hope for it to be his child. Pressing a kiss against the crescent moon which rested upon the center of her forehead, Sesshoumaru drifted off to sleep. 'She was born for me.' "Kagome…" He mumbled huskily in his sleep unconsciously holding her tighter.

-----

Ack! This chapter is a tidbit longer then I had meant it to be! Sorry if it was a little too long, but I have been getting a lot of questions. Concerning how certain characters felt, and in this chapter I tried to explain them. If anyone has questions please e-mail me at HeartlessEnchantress@yahoo.com. I enjoy hearing from everyone and I want to answer all of you, but sometimes I cant answer everything you ask at this point in time during the story. Don't want to give anything away. ^.~

As always, with love. -HeartlessEnchantress