This is my very first anime (InuYasha) fan fic idea.
Please be gentle as I don't really know that much about anime (or the InuYasha series beyond the anime for that matter) or Japan. I love InuYasha and I think the show concept was great and the characters very deep and dynamic. I was reading a Sesshoumaru fan fic the other night - an unfinished fan fic - and it made me hunger for more Sesshoumaru stuff, so I've decided to work on my own fan fic here.
note: this takes place somewhere after the anime completes.

EDIT: The "Unfound" original title of this piece was supposed to be a reference to the Dark Tower series but, as you will notice as you read on, "Unbound" became a much more suitable title. I intend to inject some Sprite into this little ficcy - and by that I mean a little lemon-lime or lemony lime, whatever. You have been warned :-)

EDIT #2: Though it was intended to be a good story and a worthy read-through for anyone remotely interested, this is not what I would consider serious writing. This was just for fun. So... yeah. I'm not trying to win any awards. Just mucking about a little. Note: as of 4/30/08 it got serious.

EDIT #3: After having begun Windcry, I realize this story requires quite a bit of editing. When I am finished with their saga I will come back and create an abridged version of this story, much like Stephen King did with the The Gunslinger. Yeah, I totally just compared myself with Stephen King... but not as a writer, as an editor, ha!

Unbound

Part I

Her dark hair flowed loose behind her in the wind as she reached the top of the hill. Feeling the wind like that made her sad - she once rode the wind, controlled it - and she hugged herself against the cold and defeat that she faced after having lost her grip on it. The only remnants of her demonhood were her elven ears and her crimson eyes. In nearly all other respects, she was human.

"There he is," she whispered to herself. At the bottom of the hill, not quite obscured by the early morning mists, was Sesshoumaru and his little group. He must have caught her scent as he was looking around above him. He found her. She read his lips as he spoke to Rin and Jaken, "Stay here", and then watched as he surrounded himself in blue light and rose to where she stood.

"Kagura, what are you doing here?" Sesshoumaru asked. He touched his hand to Toukijin and glared at her.

"I came to see you," Kagura replied. She stood steadfast, unmoved by Sesshoumaru's welcome.

"And why do you desire to see me? I thought you weren't concerned with need of my help. I know that Naraku has not yet fallen and so you are not free -"

"I am in exile, Sesshoumaru. Naraku took my powers and I no longer ride the wind." She studied his face. "What's wrong, Sesshoumaru, don't you trust me?"

"You have betrayed Naraku on more than one occasion. Why did he not kill you instead of letting you get what you wanted - to be free of him?"

"Because, as I said, he took my powers. He gave me a human heart, Sesshoumaru. I guess he thought that might be a more fitting punishment for my misdeeds against him."

"How human is your blood, Kagura? Shall I draw it and find out?”

Kagura’s face saddened, “Go right ahead. Put me out of my misery.” Sesshoumaru stood for a moment more, still glaring at Kagura, and then he took his hand from Toukijin, turned and began to glow blue as he prepared to leave her behind on the hill.

“Sesshoumaru, wait!” Kagura lost her composure then and when Sesshoumaru turned to look upon her again he was surprised to see her fists clenched and tears streaming down her suddenly reddened face.

“I had no care for you as demon. Why should I concern myself with you as human? I have no concern for humans whatsoever and thus no business with you.” He turned away again.

“Damn these human emotions, I have no control over them!” Kagura threw herself forward and wrapped her arms around Sesshoumaru. She planted her face in the small of his back and wet his kimono with her tears.

“Kagura, unhand me at once.” Sesshoumaru stopped and stood with Kagura holding him at the edge of the hill’s face.

---

I got distracted by a movie and my brain got tired so this is where I stopped. I'd like to write more, I think I have something here - but if it doesn't make sense, or whatever, I won't bother. Post responses of what you think please :-)

That chapter was pretty sad. I felt pretty bad for Kagura.

I can admit that this is some of the more well written fanfics I have seen on this site.

thanks very much, I'll continue writing and update soon :kittylove:

Part II

“Kagura, I’m not going to ask you again.” Sesshoumaru remained facing the edge of the hill-face with Kagura clinging to him from behind.

“I can’t, I can’t help myself. I have these feelings -”

“Kagura,” Sesshoumaru paused a moment, “Why are you doing this?” He looked down at Kagura’s white-knuckled hands clutching his waist. He drew his hand out near to hers but hesitated to touch it. She tried to stand herself upright and grabbed at the fur and garments that clothed his chest. He did nothing to assist her but she got herself straight. She kept her arms around him, though not as desperately tight, and he did not resist her. Only stood still facing the countryside ahead of them with his eyes turned as far as he could turn them in her direction and still face forward uninterestedly.

“Sesshoumaru, do you remember when you took me from the river? When I had those terrible injuries? Do you remember what was said?”

“Vaguely, it is not usually part of my agenda to memorize every trivial little conversation that is had with those who do not concern me.”

“Sesshoumaru, I was glad to see you. I was sure I was going to die soon and if there was one person I wanted to see before my death…” She trailed off.

“These human emotions do not become you, Kagura. You should go. I do not wish to slay you. If you really are no longer connected with Naraku, I bear you no grudge and therefore have no further dealings with you.” Sesshoumaru turned his eyes forward again. He could hear Jaken calling to him. He did not want to be seen allowing Kagura to cling to him so he unclasped her hands and dropped them from his body. “Go.”

Kagura sniffed and wiped her tears and her nose. She kept her eyes on the grass between she and Sesshoumaru when he turned in her direction. Jaken continued to call his master between morning bird calls and the sound of the wind.

“I apologize,” Kagura sniffled, “Your visage bewitched me once as a demon and, as human or human-like as I seem to be now, I cannot remove it from my thoughts. It seems this human heart wanted to feel your presence, even if for only an instant. Perhaps just to know what it must feel like to be human - the way Kagome and Kikyou fell for Inu- well, your half-human brother. I never understood some of their actions until now. I am weak, Sesshoumaru. And I am embarrassed to show you this weakness, the weakness that allowed me this display. I don’t understand how - Humans must be stronger than we would credit them if they can keep strong with all these complicated…” She trailed off again. Her subsiding tears returned and she turned away from Sesshoumaru covering her face. Jaken had given up calling to his master and was now bickering to Rin about their master’s always taking off with barely a word and his ungratefulness for Jaken’s service to him. Jaken would be dealt with later. As long as no one was watching, he would bother with Kagura a little longer. He took a step forward and placed his hand on her shoulder.

“Kagura, I see you have no understanding of what’s happening to you. No frame of reference other than memories of a fondness you may have had for me. I don’t know these feelings as I’m sure demons can’t really love or feel sentiment for anyone. I do pity you, you are clearly in a terrible state.”

“What about your father?”

“What of him?” Sesshoumaru took his hand from Kagura’s shoulder. She turned to face him again.

“Your father made your brother with a human woman and he had enough sentiment to leave the swords you each have for the purpose of keeping you from killing each other. And as far as love and sentiment go, why do half demons exist at all? And why are they protected by their demon parents so? Because demons sometimes fall for humans, have children with them that they care for and feel a need to protect both.”

“I have no such capabilities.” Sesshoumaru’s face was stoic.

“You may pity me, Sesshoumaru, but I tend to pity those who limit themselves due to fear.”

“I fear nothing, Kagura. Fear is a useless emotion and one a demon such as myself cannot afford to feel.”

“You could afford to feel a few things.” Kagura turned and began to walk away. Sesshoumaru remained where he stood flabbergasted by the whole scene.

---
Part III to come soon.

Part III

Sesshoumaru for the first time found himself without a cruel quip in reply. Kagura was disappearing from his view as she descended from the hill’s top. He shook his head, ‘I am probably going to wish I hadn‘t,’ he thought. He followed her for a few seconds and then she stopped. She turned her head back.

“What?” She said through clenched teeth.

“Kagura, you are cold and vulnerable in your condition. Come back to camp with me and I’ll make sure Jaken and Rin look after your needs. You’ll be safe with us until you figure out what to do with yourself from this point.”

“Huh?” Kagura turned completely toward Sesshoumaru. “You’ll protect me?”

“I didn’t say I would protect you. Just that you can stay with us for a while. No one bothers looking for a fight with me much these days. You will be -” he paused, “Safe.”

Kagura considered. Sesshoumaru, much to her as well as his own disbelief, invited Kagura with his arm open to her. She approached cautiously and accepted his invite. He held her to his side and orbed them to where Jaken and Rin were staying with Ah-Un.

Sesshoumaru orbed he and his companion so that he arrived just behind where Jaken was standing. He took his arm from Kagura and gave Jaken a swift kick to the rear. He sent him flying and screaming several feet from where he originally stood. Rin giggled a little, covering her amused grin with her hand out of respect for Jaken while Ah-Un gave a horsy snort.

“Lord Sesshoumaru, you have a guest,” Rin smiled at Kagura, “I knew you’d come back. See, Master Jaken, I told you Kagura felt -”

“Kagura is going to stay with us for a while,” Sesshoumaru interrupted.

“Lord Sesshoumaru! You’re going to let that deceitful wench join our group? Do you really think you can trust -” Jaken came running back to Sesshoumaru only to be kicked again. “Whatever you think is best, Master,” Jaken groaned as he landed.

“There is nothing to worry about, Jaken. Kagura is powerless. Naraku gave her a human heart and it must have neutralized her powers somehow - perhaps even purified her. She is basically human. She is no danger to us.” Sesshoumaru explained.

Jaken got to his feet and stood well away from Sesshoumaru.
“Not to question too much, Lord Sesshoumaru, but don’t you think maybe it could be a trick? No disrespect, Master, but if she is bold enough to betray Naraku in the first place -”

“Jaken, do you wish to be kicked again?”

“No, my lord.”

“Then I suggest you be quiet.”

“Yes, my lord.”

Jaken and Rin gathered firewood and fished for lunch in the nearby creek. Kagura made herself at home and sat on the log that was set up as camp seating. She tied her hair up in a bun, the way she usually wore it, as the sun drew high and hot in the cerulean sky above. Sesshoumaru took a seat against a mossy tree adjacent to the log.

“Sesshoumaru.”

“Yes, Kagura?”

“Thank you.”

“Just don’t give me any reason to slay you.”

“I won’t.”

---
Part IV may actually take some time as I go back to work tomorrow and probably won’t be off for a few days. I may have time to write nights as my boyfriend works third shift and I get bored easily when he’s not here. See you next time! :excited:

"Jaken, do you wish to be kicked?"

"No, my lord!"

For some reason I cracked up at that part.

Part IV

Kagura told her story over a fresh fish lunch. Sesshoumaru sat near and quiet, his eyes never leaving Kagura. Jaken sat somewhat removed from the group with his arms folded and his face twisted into a distrustful grimace. Rin leaned against Sesshoumaru smiling and shifting her eyes between he and Kagura.

“Naraku called me to meet him in his quarters. He was sitting on his throne holding what I thought was my heart. I was sure that was it - he was going to make me watch him kill me. He saw the look of fear on my face and smiled. I hated him for that and he knew it - I know he knew because the moment I thought that his smile grew even wider.”

“He said, ‘Kagura, I have something for you. Something you’ve been wanting for a long time.’ I felt I knew my death was very close because, if he destroyed me, in essence I would be free of him. That was not the freedom I desired but if that was the only way I could get it, so be it. I took a deep breath and I said to him, ‘Naraku, do your worst.’ I’m still not sure how I feel about my choice of words there - maybe he should have killed me instead of what he did. Maybe this is a worse punishment; it remains to be seen. In any case, it was at that point that he implanted the heart he held in my chest. I was surprised to say the least. I tried not to smile but I was really happy to have my heart and I was thinking maybe I was going to be let off the hook after all. I mean, if he wished to kill me wouldn’t he just go ahead and crush my heart right there instead of bothering to return it to me first?”

“I waited for Naraku to say something - anything - and then that’s when I felt the pain. It felt like a pulling - a pulling from my limbs and torso that seemed to originate from my chest. The pulling was so intense that I at first thought I couldn’t breathe. Then the pulling changed to an outward pushing - as if the heart was drawing energy in and then trying to expel it through my skin. I tried very hard not to react but I couldn’t help it, the pain was so horrible and I fell to my knees and cried out. Naraku laughed and brought out what was apparently my original heart.”

“He said, ‘Kagura, I could kill you but I don’t see the point. You should suffer and death would be too easy for you. I’ve given you a human heart.’ And then he crushed my demon heart. It turned to dust and slid through his fingers like grains of sand and piled on the floor below. He did not explain what was happening to me or what would become of me with this new heart, he only said, ‘You can go now. I have no use for you or your treachery. Be gone.’ So I left. When I tried to produce a feather on which to travel, I could not do so. None of my powers worked. It is my good fortune that you were not far from where Naraku was based when he exiled me. I knew I had to find you and I couldn’t imagine I’d be lucky enough to find you so quickly. I might have died out there looking for you. Though I still have a woman’s intuition, there was no way for me to sense you or catch your scent. It seems those abilities are gone from me also.”

“Awfully coincidental, Naraku dropping you so close to Lord Sesshoumaru. I suppose he is already gone of the place you left from,” Jaken grumbled. Kagura glared in his direction.

“Yes, as if it’s any of your concern you little green eyesore,” Kagura said.

“Jaken,” Sesshoumaru scolded.

“My apologies, my lord; my only concern is for you,” Jaken groveled.

“No one need concern for me. Kagura, how did you find me?” Sesshoumaru asked.

“Though I may be human, I still have my connections along the grapevine as well as access to a lot of great look-out points - even if I have to climb to get to them now instead of simply landing there,” Kagura replied. “Is that answer good enough for you, you little toad?” Kagura sharpened her stare on Jaken. A sweat drop slid down the side of Jaken’s face and he gave a nervous grin.

“Sounds good to me, Kagura,” Jaken answered.

The group passed the day leisurely. Rin dragged Jaken away to pick flowers to celebrate Kagura’s arrival. Sesshoumaru spent some time with Ah-Un, doing a little grooming and staring off into nowhere. Kagura made up a bed for herself from some foliage and dozed from late morning to mid-afternoon. She spent the rest of the day lying on her make-shift mattress and staring up at the sky. Evening arrived and it was another meal of fish. Nightfall came and so sleep was supposed to, but it did not come easily. At least not for Kagura.

She sat up and looked around at everyone on their make-shift beds - everyone except Sesshoumaru. He was sitting by that mossy tree facing away from everyone and staring into the starry distance. Kagura got up and sauntered over to where Sesshoumaru sat. He sensed her behind him and looked up at her. There was something curious about the way her face was framed by the cosmos above.

“Can’t sleep?” Kagura produced a nervous kind of half-smile.

“No. I have never needed much sleep and prefer not to at night anyway,” Sesshoumaru replied. He turned his face back to the nothing-in-particular he had been staring at for hours. Kagura smiled at his back. He had such beautiful long hair. It was the color of snow reflecting a blue sky in its shadows and looked so silky. How she wanted to touch it but feared losing her hand more. He wasn’t ready for that yet but maybe someday. If he allowed her to stay long enough, maybe she would get the chance one day.

“Mind if I join you?” Kagura’s voice was shakier than she would have liked but she was happy she got the inquiry out.

“Not at all, have a seat.” Sesshoumaru patted the space next to him. Kagura caught herself smiling when he did that but quickly wiped it from her face before she sat next to him. They sat and stared forward for a few minutes before the silence between them was broken my Sesshoumaru.

“Are you happy, Kagura?” He spoke without turning to her.

“I’m sorry?”

“Are you happy? You’re free from Naraku, you are sitting by me in the night. Do those things not make you happy?”

“I suppose they should.”

“And they don’t?”

“They do but I’m filled with this fear.”

“What are you afraid of, Kagura?”

Kagura sat for a moment with a hard look on her face. She didn’t know how to put her feelings into words.

“That’s all right. You have all these unfamiliar thoughts and feelings inside you now. It’s hard to know what to make of it all, I’m sure. Take this time to sort them out. As long as you travel with us, you have nothing to fear.” Sesshoumaru turned to Kagura and lightly stroked her hair. His hand grazing her face brought out such strange sensations. She took his hand into hers and pressed it to the side of her face. She then turned and pressed her lips into the palm of his hand. There was an electricity between them. Sesshoumaru began to detect a tingling in his nether regions he was unfamiliar with. A pressure was building in his groin.

“This doesn’t feel right.” Sesshoumaru pulled his hand away. He turned forward again and hugged his knees. Kagura’s eyes grew wide with embarrassment. She too turned straight and hugged her knees.

“That was a little weird,” Kagura whispered.

“It was interesting,” Sesshoumaru added.

“Did you feel what I felt?” Kagura asked.

“I’m not certain,” Sesshoumaru answered.

“That’s what I was afraid of.” Kagura’s voice was suddenly small.

---
This is what being up sick yields. Good night x :daydream:
P.S.: Part V should arrive sometime this weekend :-)

WOW!!! This is REALLY, REALLY good. I love the Sesshoumaru dialouge, you capture him incredibly well. The story is unfolding nicley as well. I will now hurry and delete everything I ever wrote in this place.

Oh and dont get too discouraged if you dont get alot of replies at first, this story is so good people wont be able to resist commenting on it.

Hope you feel better...or maybe too sick for work? More chappies tommorow? Hehe

Please continue... Freakin A+ :cheer:

Thank you very much, I didn't expect this positive of a reaction. I just don't know that much about anime or Japan and figured it would show in my writing horribly. I do have to go to work today which sucks but I'll get some rest tonight, I hope. That is if Sesshoumaru and Kagura don't keep me up with more of their story ;-)

I wouldn't worry so much about the anime or japanese aspects of your story. I see you already found that Inu-Taisho wiki page. There are some great links off of that page that at least help with InuYasha story. Proper spellings,(although they are optional) some what of a timeline and geneology of the Inu-family. It wont take much of a study to subtly weave them into your story.

There are some incredible writers here that have unique ability to grab the reader from the first few sentences. as far as Im concerned you fit right in with them. I also asked a few people questions when I felt it was imparitive to a story. Inchini or just Chi, can seem to answer any question related to the genre. He/she the one giving the wiki page in the questions forum. Most people are open to questions so you can P.M. someone who you may feel has an answer for you.

Looking forward to your next post... :dancow:

Bwee~

Love it! Great story and one of my favorite pairings~

Tho, I don't really finish it >> <<

-short attention span-

I shall later : DD!

Prelude to Part V

“Did you feel what I felt?” Kagura asked.

“I’m not certain,” Sesshoumaru answered.

“That’s what I was afraid of.” Kagura’s voice was suddenly small.

Part V

“What was that?” Sesshoumaru turned his face to Kagura again.

“What was what?” Kagura answered. She remained facing straight ahead, her eyes widened again.

“Did you not just say something?” Sesshoumaru prodded again.

“No. Nothing. It was nothing.” Kagura finally turned her face to Sesshoumaru and tried to narrow her stare. Her eyes found his and they were held there by some invisible magic. His eyes were the color of yellow gold. He was such a pretty man. His expression rarely ever showed any emotion. He was all but impossible to read, but still so handsome. She felt she could see somewhere in those gilt eyes an emotion Sesshoumaru would be humiliated for her to read. It would be a form of defeat if he were to admit to her that, despite his convictions, he was (or already had done so) falling for her.

She loosed her hair from the bun and let it fall over her shoulders.
“I should really try to get some sleep. What are you going to do?” She asked.

“I’m going to watch for trouble.” Sesshoumaru turned his face straight in line with his body again. Kagura stood and looked at him for a second or two and then retuned to her bed. She laid awake and stargazing for little while and then quietly slipped off to sleep.

Rin cooked breakfast in the morning. More fish. She presented to Kagura the crown of pinkish lilies she had picked with Jaken the day before. It remained proudly worn on Kagura’s head thereafter.

Kagura basked in the sunlight on her back for a while. She was warm under the virtually cloudless sky when something, or rather someone, obscured her light. Sesshoumaru was standing over her.

“Oh! You scared the hell out of me!” She jerked.

“I’m going to have a look around - make sure you weren’t followed.” Sesshoumaru spoke plainly. He moved out of view. Kagura sat up and watched Sesshoumaru leave the camp. She watched the movement of his form under the folds of his kimono. What did that body look like? He was tall and slim-faced but she did not imagine anything that could be described as scrawny was hidden beneath his garb. ‘I’ll bet that ass is perfect,’ she thought to herself.

She laid back down and sighed after Sesshoumaru disappeared from sight. Her light was obscured once more - this time by two figures. Rin had run over with Jaken in tow.

“You really care for Lord Sesshoumaru, don’t you?” Rin beamed.

“Whatever gave you that idea?” Kagura returned. The corners of her mouth turned up involuntarily.

“You know, I believe he really likes you too,” said Rin.

Kagura’s face stiffened.
“What makes you say that?”

“Every time he comes in contact with you, he sits and stares into the distance - usually the sky - doesn’t speak, just thinks for hours on end,” Rin explained.

“You noticed that, too, huh?” Kagura raised an eyebrow.

“When you left the last time I said -”

“Rin, we must get more firewood before our lord returns,” Jaken interrupted.

“Okay! See you in a little while, Lady Kagura!” Rin smiled and ran off into the trees with Jaken.

‘Lady Kagura, my that has a nice ring to it,’ Kagura thought.

---
I have no idea how many parts this thing is going to have - I guess as many as it takes to tell the story. In any case, I probably won't have a finished Part VI until tomorrow night. Have to be at work really early in the morning *grumble*
Thanks for reading!

Well done Ryoko...another great post. Hmm Iwas wondering when kagura was watching Sesshoumaru leave, who was really wondering about the greatness of his postirier? You or Kagura...? Hehe
:excited:

Update when you may...

Aw, Rin is so cute <3

xD

More soon

Part VI

“What are you afraid of, Kagura?”

Sesshoumaru became a little frustrated when she only furrowed her brow and stared instead of answering what should have been a simple question.

“That’s all right,” he had said, “You have all these unfamiliar thoughts and feelings inside you now. It’s hard to know what to make of it all, I’m sure. Take this time to sort them out. As long as you travel with us, you have nothing to fear.” ‘Not even me,’ is what he wanted to follow with but he didn’t want to open up that door. At least not just yet. Even though his literal hand in the matter didn’t exactly lock that door.

Kagura brought on these urges - of which he was not sure he approved. Part of what made him such a powerful demon was that he had no feelings - no attachments or obligations to anyone. Rin and Jaken followed him out of loyalty and so he allowed it. Sometimes Rin got into trouble and those who would oppose him would use her to stand in his way, so he’d rescue her by default. Did that indicate attachment and/or obligation? He didn’t think so.

Sesshoumaru canvassed the area around the camp several times over. He didn’t sense any auras or smell anything he shouldn’t but didn’t think it would hurt to look some more. His thoughts took him back to the night before. What were those sensations he felt when she kissed his palm? Why did he care? Kagura was never the trustworthy sort but, then again, she never lied to him - at least it was never made apparent.

“It makes no matter. If she is human, I shouldn’t pay her any attention,” Sesshoumaru thought aloud. That in itself was unlike him. She had better move on soon; she was a distraction to say the least.

He approached the calm area of the creek Rin and Jaken had been fishing in. He thought he heard singing but couldn’t see where it might be coming from for the trees. He stealthily passed through the branches and foliage and found Kagura bathing in the water. She had her back to him; her hair flowed down past her shoulders and floated on the water in wavy raven strands. He caught a flash of the side of her left breast when she raised her arms to clean her hair in the fresh water. She had turned ever so slightly as she did so. She continued singing and swayed to her own music. She spun and faced Sesshoumaru but didn’t see him watching her because her eyes were closed.

He carried on watching, expressionless though he felt that pressure again. She turned around and then turned his way again, this time with her eyes open. She still had her hands in her hair so the position of her arms lifted her breasts just above the water. She stopped her singing but left her mouth open in a sort of stunned ‘O.’ Sesshoumaru and Kagura met eyes and neither moved.

Kagura closed her mouth and dropped her arms into the water with a thin plop. She made no effort to cover herself. Sesshoumaru remained unmoved. She took two steps toward him and then dunked herself underwater. She rose and combed her soggy hair back from her face with her fingers. She met eyes with Sesshoumaru again. She gave him a sort of come hither look. His expression never changed and, after a few moments, he turned and walked back through the trees.

“I will never understand you,” she said just loud enough for him to hear as he departed, “But then again, I hardly understand myself right now. Maybe I need a human hand in the matter.”
He wasn’t sure that last part was meant for him but he took it anyway. He had an idea of what to do with it.

---
I know this part is short but with the way I'm separating this out, it had to end where it does. I'm going ahead and posting this now even if, or perhaps just in case, I don't get the next part finished tonight. Hugs to all :monkey:

Ooo...Juicy stuff.

Very nice, update when you may :victory:

Part VII

Kagura woke in the middle of the night feeling someone’s hand on her. Someone was gently shaking her by her arm. She opened her eyes and focused them on the person causing the disturbance. She saw Sesshoumaru leaning over her and heard two female voices nearby.

“I brought you something. Actually two things,” Sesshoumaru said.

“Hiraikotsu!” a voice called and a thunderous sound approached. Sesshoumaru took Kagura in his arm and orbed. Her bed was destroyed by Hiraikotsu, the weapon belonging to Sango of InuYasha’s group. Ah-Un picked up Rin and Jaken and took them to safety.

“Careful Sango, remember that Rin is probably in Sesshoumaru’s camp,” Kagome said.

“I’m sorry,” Sango cried. Sesshoumaru’s blue sphere of light landed in front of Sango and Kagome and dissipated. He stood Kagura next to him in front of them.

“Kagura. What are you two doing, working together now?” Sango asked. She gripped the strap on Hiraikotsu as if ready to sling it again. Apart from that she looked rather unprepared to battle. Her face was puffy and her eyes sleepy and she was in her regular kimono.

“I seem to have neglected not only to explain the situation but to disarm the demon slayer, Kagura. I will remedy that mistake if you wish to do the explaining bit,” Sesshoumaru used his super speed to steal Hiraikotsu from Sango and take it to the far side of the camp. Ah-Un landed where Sesshoumaru decided to stand guard with the giant boomerang of demon bone and let Rin and Jaken down. Rin ran and hugged Sesshoumaru and he allowed her to snuggle to him.

“Dammit, now what do we do?” Sango growled. Kagura tied her hair up as if trying to make herself more presentable and then tried to gather her words.

“Kagome, Sango, please don’t be afraid,” She offered, “I mean you no harm and, believe it or not, Sesshoumaru means you no harm. For the most part anyway.”

“Why are you doing this? Why did he take us from our beds in the middle of the night?” Kagome asked.

“Listen, I’m sure InuYasha and that monk are on their way here and it’s not going to be pretty when they arrive so - let me give you the short version,” Kagura began. “Naraku, before he exiled me, gave me a human heart in place of my own and it somehow disabled my powers and gave me human feelings I cannot seem to control. I since joined Sesshoumaru and his little group and, I can only imagine, he brought you here because of something I said earlier about wishing for human help in dealing with those feelings I spoke of.

“So, he brought us all the way out here to see you in order to counsel you?” Kagome asked.

“More or less.” Kagura bared her teeth in an embarrassed false smile.

“Okay, well… what are these feelings you speak of? The ones you can’t control?” Sango appeared puzzled. Kagome, on the other hand, did not look so baffled.

“Can we sit and speak extremely softly?” Kagura whispered.

“Sure,” Kagome answered. The group of girls sat. Kagura turned around to look at Sesshoumaru but he was gone. Jaken and Rin sat with Hiraikotsu while Ah-Un stood by and watched the girls hold their palaver. Kagura turned back to Kagome and Sango. She opened her mouth but nothing came out. She realized their time was growing short and that she’d better cut to the chase.

“I had better just get to the point. When I’m with Sesshoumaru, I feel these extreme sensations. It’s like a sickness sometimes. This cold, fuzzy feeling in my chest, this weightlessness and wobbliness in my stomach - tingles in places I didn’t know could feel so. He touched my hair last night and I had this ache in my core that just made me want to be close to him - so close I might actually go through him. What does it all mean?”

Kagome and Sango shared a knowing glance.
“And you crumble at his very touch?” Kagome asked. Kagura nodded.

“Kagura, I believe you may be in love with Sesshoumaru,” Kagome raised an eyebrow at Kagura.

“Therein lies my problem. My only hope and my only fear. Do you even think he is capable of returning such an emotion?” Kagura looked defeated.

“Well, he does care for that little girl,” Sango nodded in Rin’s direction.

“And his and InuYasha’s father fell for a human woman - that’s how InuYasha got here in the first place,” Kagome added.

“Today, he discovered me bathing in the nearby stream. I turned and there he stood, watching me. I should have been seductive when I didn’t hide after having been discovered by him but he simply walked away. I don’t know which I fear more, Sesshoumaru never wanting me or if he would actually take me. If I was to bear his child, would it be full or half demon?” Kagura covered her face with her hand. Kagome cleared her throat and began going through her pack.

“I may have something to remedy that - as a just in case,” Kagome said with an awkward smile. Kagura took her hand from her face.
“If you wish to pursue Sesshoumaru and you actually get somewhere with him, you could have him use one of these.” Kagome held up a flat square object with symbols that read “durex.” “I brought these back with me a while ago when I thought things were moving forward with InuYasha. I don’t suppose I’ll have the opportunity to use them before they expire the way we go back and forth.”

“That is really colorful vegetation. How does it work? Is it some kind of love charm?” Kagura asked.

“Sort of,” Kagome blushed, “If you should ever get so close to Sesshoumaru that you might take it to the next level - if you’re sexual attraction is mutual - then you use this,” Kagome paused, looking in the direction of Rin. She felt the need to censor herself in case Rin could hear, “You use this to prevent him from sowing his seed, if you get my drift.”

“And how does it do that?” Kagura scrunched her face.

“Well, Sesshoumaru would put this on his,” Kagome paused for censorship, “On his sword and then it‘s safe, you see.” Kagome opened the wrapper and demonstrated on her hand how to apply the “charm.”

“So, which sword does he put it on - Toukijin or Tenseiga?”

“No, you don’t understand. His other sword,” Kagome replied. She discarded the stretchy vegetation she had rolled onto her fingers. Kagura gave her a confused look for a second and then widened her eyes and opened her mouth in surprise.

“I think I understand now how this piece of vegetation works. Thank you Kagome.” Kagura accepted the durexes and smiled in thanks.

“WIND SCAR!” Another thunderous sound this time followed by light and wind.

“Oh no, InuYasha!” Sango moaned.

Sesshoumaru was employing his super speed in order to deal with InuYasha’s attacks.

“Wait, InuYasha! Don’t hurt anyone!” Kagome called.

“Kagome! I’ll kill you for this, Sesshoumaru! WIND SCAR!" The girls ran screaming and Ah-Un took Rin and Jaken out of harm’s way again. The mossy tree where Kagura had felt so close to Sesshoumaru was destroyed.

“InuYasha, SIT BOY!” Kagome screamed. InuYasha was instantly face-planted into the ground in front of Sesshoumaru.

“If your discussion is adjourned, perhaps you two should leave with the cur.” Sesshoumaru sheathed Toukijin, got Hiraikotsu and returned it to Sango. He then walked to where the tree had been and faced in the opposite direction of the others. Kagome and Sango looked at each other and then at Kagura. Kagura smiled and nodded. The two girls helped InuYasha up and dragged him out of the nearly obliterated camp.

---
This may require some editing both for grammar and content. I stayed up so late to finish this chapter I'm out of my everlovin mind. And hey, you know DayQuil is one hell of a drug. Hope to see you all tomorrow - that is if my internet connection doesn't get shut off cos the bill is late :chidorisd:

Cool...Kagome and Sango to council Kagura. Two girls who cant get there own relationships straight, or even started.

Kinda interesting with whole profalactic...?

Guess ill see why she wouldn't want to have his kid,...hmm or does she?

Great job!!!

:victory:

I could barely see straight when I wrote the last installment due to a combination of factors: sleep deprivation, medication and illness. I'm afraid it went over like a lead balloon. Something about it just doesn't seem right to me personally, though. Maybe it's that I'm worried the content is too racy for the age group of people that seem so predominant on this site. Anyway, let me know what you think :-)
If it just doesn't work, I'll rewrite the chapter and edit the post. If you folks comment and let me know one way or another, I'll continue accordingly. Thanks for all your feedback :-)

EDIT:
Hehehe, I knew as soon as I posted a note like this there'd be a reply just above it. My timing is impeccable! I'm glad it wasn't exactly a lead balloon. Thank you!

LoL... funny how that works huh?

It is your story after all, and you are already taking the characters to new places.

There is a bit of young circle here, but they are all pretty intelligent, and the ones that do write probably have stuff that makes this seem rated-G. (so far) Besides they usually spend most of the time in candyland spamming to there hearts content.

Ill be waiting for the next update.

I don't see why Kagura wouldn't be suited to bear Sesshomaru's child. I could see that happening.

Ah. Seems like Sango and Kagome wish to help out Kagura. :3 Nice.

LOL, I just realized something - Kagome demonstrates the 'charm' on her hand. Just how big does she think Sesshoumaru's 'sword' is? I changed one part of it to fingers, I'm thinking that might change the image to her having applied it to her first two fingers instead of her whole hand and rolling it down her wrist. Jeezy Creezy I need to eat some food and get rid of this awful feeling in my face. Then maybe I'll actually be coherent. And hey, I know it would be just so cute for Kagura to co-parent with Sesshoumaru but, even in the feudal era, I believe if it's possible to practice safe sex, then by all means it should be done. Besides, I really don't think even having his own offspring would do all that much to soften Sesshoumaru's heart - I really think it'd make him more angry than anything. It would just be something standing in his way at ultimate power and defeating Naraku. It may also make a fool of him, in his belief. Especially if that child were to come out any part human.

Well Im glad to see you wont shatter the mystique of the great dog-demon. If he did have a kid... And he was just like InuYasha???

Maybe then since he was protecting humans he could...??? Oh thats another story.

Feed yourself, and feel better. :dancow:

Part VIII

The half-demon’s grumbling and shouting slowly diminished in the darkness. There was apparently some disagreement between he and his female companions as to whether Sesshoumaru and his new companion - Kagura, InuYasha newly learned - deserved to die this night or not.

Sesshoumaru stood observing the smoking fissure where the mossy tree he used to rest by had been. He felt discontent, clenched his fist at the sight of the smoldering ruins before him. How did everything culminate into this? His camp had been destroyed and all for this woman. Why did he let this happen?

He could sense Kagura coming up behind him. He felt such anger he wanted to turn and rip her to shreds with his poison claws - just cut her right down the middle and watch each half fall in opposing directions and her guts spill out between them. Was that too harsh? For the destruction of the camp, maybe. After all it had been his decision to bring the girls who had lured InuYasha and his pesky Wind Scar to their location. But for the humiliation of the whole state of affairs - that was grounds for execution.

“Sesshoumaru, I don’t know what to say,” Kagura said. He sensed she stopped so that, if he did turn in attack, she would be just out of his immediate reach. Sometimes he felt she knew him a little too well.

“We need to set up camp somewhere else. This place is no longer suitable.” Sesshoumaru restrained himself and continued to stare ahead.

“Fair enough, where shall we go?” Kagura patted and smoothed her clothes. She must have had dirt on her kimono from sitting on the ground.

“We’ll move to the wooded area by the stream. The calm part. I know you’re familiar with the place. Rin, Jaken, gather any items you care for. Guide Ah-Un, we are moving camp immediately,” Sesshoumaru commanded.

He began to walk in the direction that lead where he earlier found Kagura bathing. Had she wanted him to catch her? It really wasn’t that far from their original camp and she knew he was searching the area. That part of the stream was somewhat obscured by trees and bushes but he was lead beyond them by her singing. She had to know singing would draw attention, right? A deceitful witch like her wasn’t stupid.

They arrived at their destination and bedded down. The soil that now made their new camp was soft yet well packed. The trees provided some shelter and there were no bugs beyond the grassy area in front of the bank. Sesshoumaru sat on a log by the water’s edge and settled his gaze on the trees that lined the other side of the stream. He couldn’t help letting his eyes drift down to the water. He pictured Kagura’s song and dance, the way the ends of her hair floated like small black snakes on the surface of the water. That pressure he dreaded - not because he didn’t like it but for reason that he didn’t understand it - returned down below.

He turned his head to look behind him. Jaken and Rin had fallen asleep by the new campfire. Kagura laid awake. He turned his face forward again. She was probably waiting for him to ask her what she and InuYasha’s friends talked about. Like he cared… Or did he? It was he that brought them to her aid. It may have appeared to be a kindness - a favor even - but he only did it so that Kagura might more quickly learn to deal with her humanity and leave he and his cadre for good. He couldn’t afford this distraction. This feeling.

“This weakness,” he thought aloud.

“Sesshoumaru?” Kagura inquired, her voice a mere breath.

“Go to sleep, Kagura.” Sesshoumaru didn’t bother to whisper. She made no reply. After a few minutes, he turned his head back to her. She was laying on her side, her body kind of crumpled, and staring at him. He turned and sat sideways on the log so he could more easily view and address her.

“Can’t sleep?” Though the question was thoughtful, his voice gave it a matter-of-fact disinterested quality.

“Apparently not,” she replied, “May I sit with you?” Sesshoumaru was loathe to respond to that question.

“Sesshoumaru?”

“You may. Just don’t say ‘thank you.’ You need not thank me when I have not done something that benefits you.” Sesshoumaru turned his face back to the water and shifted so that he sat straight again.

“Consider your deeds thankless.” Kagura stood and walked guardedly to where Sesshoumaru sat and took a seat next to him.

“May I apologize?” Kagura was too close. Her face was maybe a foot from his.

“What for?” Sesshoumaru tried to keep his face forward.

“For my imposition,” she answered. She too turned her face forward and between them hung a thick silence.

“I do not care to hear apologies,” Sesshoumaru said finally. Kagura turned her face to him again.
“It is late. You should try and get some sleep,” he added. He could feel her eyes - eyes the color of blood - and her stare dug at his skin. He could feel her hand creep up the fluffy adornment he always kept slung over his shoulder. She ran her fingers down through his hair from the point where it met his shoulder and on past its ends far below.

“Does your insolence know no boundaries?” Sesshoumaru asked without turning.

“No,” Kagura answered. Her voice was soft as her touch.

“Do not touch my hair,” Sesshoumaru demanded. She took her hand from his moonlit locks and dropped it on her lap.

“Sorry,” Kagura said. He could see from the corner of his eye that she was struggling to restrict a smile. He didn’t suppose he had any reason to stop her from fawning over him. Besides, was it not a form appreciation and loyalty?

“No apologies. You may stroke my hair if you wish,” said he. Kagura’s eyes grew wide and her mouth dropped open a little bit. He turned his face to hers and stared impatiently. She drew her hand out toward his tresses and gently traced her fingers through them. He turned his face forward again. She scooted a little closer and tested her limits further by shifting her hand further down and behind him and laying her head against his shoulder, stroking his mane all the while. He didn’t squirm or show any resistance. They sat together this way until Kagura finally dozed against him. He looked down at her peaceful sleeping face.

‘If I love you,” he thought, ‘Have I lost my resolve? If I am having these thoughts, am I already weakened by a previously unknown and dreaded predisposition to feel compassion for those who have concern for me?’ He carefully shifted his arm from underneath Kagura and slid it around her slumping shoulders. He allowed his palm to rest open on her side. Still in her sleep, she made herself more comfortable by moving her head to his chest and nestling her body to his side.

Sesshoumaru sighed softly.
‘I’m going to wish I hadn’t,’ he thought. He returned his gaze to the water, the trees and the night drawing close to its end.

---
Part IX draws nigh - I don't have to be at work until 1pm tomorrow. If I made any grammatical errors, etc, I didn't catch the first thousand times I proofread this, I will correct them later as I have with the other sections. Hope you enjoy! Thanks as always for reading :kittylove:

[huggles the 3 chapters she read] SQWEE<3

[don't ask, trust me, I was huggling a piece of paper this afternoon...]

Updateee, love the story and Shessy is so cute with Kagura<3

I am sooo enjoying this... :victory:

Great work again...

Hehe, huggling - that's rich! I might have an update as soon as tonight. Does this mean I have too much time on my hands? Well, I did have to stay home sick today - I had to do something when I felt well enough to get out of bed.

I has a question: The little characters under our avatars - How do the amount of posts we make effect who it is and why do some people have ones that are clearly not part of the InuYasha series? If I stay in the InuYasha based subjects, can I keep solely InuYasha characters by my posts? Cos I don't know anybody outside InuYasha, Tenchi, Hellsing, Ergo Proxy and Death Note. Thanks in advance for your answers. I huggle you all!

They're ranks.

After a certain amount of posts we get a new rank.

Sorry I didn't get to Part IX last night - I'm having a bit of writer's block at the moment and nothing I tried inspired me much as to what happens next. A long day trying to pass the hours doing truck at work should help with that. I do have something that may tide you over for the meantime :-)



Doesn't that just look so much like what Sesshoumaru's face must have looked like in the last chapter while standing where the ruins of the tree laid? In fact, I'd say he's making that face a lot in this story. And then maybe one or two of these.





Catch ya later, I hope xoxo

Part IX

I
Several months passed and Kagura was ready to burst with child. Sesshoumaru held Kikyou prisoner. He agreed to free her under the condition she act as midwife when it came time for Kagura to birth his child.

The labor was much more excruciating than she had anticipated but the pressure in her belly finally lifted in that last horrible push. Kikyou hesitated to hold up the child for Kagura to see but she could tell something was wrong by the look on Sesshoumaru’s face. He was sitting by Kikyou and there was no doubt he had a good view. His face started with wide eyes and slightly dropped jaw. Shock. It then turned sour and his ‘o’ of shock closed to a sneer. Anger.

“It’s a boy.” Kikyou hardly sounded celebratory.

“What’s wrong? What’s wrong with my baby? Why won’t you let me see?” Kagura pleaded. Kikyou held the little boy up so Kagura could see him. He was light-skinned and had silvery white hair like his father but something was wrong. He had little dog ears on top of his head and dark brows like -

“This cannot be. I cannot have a child that mirrors my idiot half-brother so. Not so much like InuYasha. I will not tolerate it.” Sesshoumaru glared. He stood and drew Toukijin. Light burst from him and it raged toward Kagura and Kikyou holding the baby. There was a terrible din as they were enveloped by the light.

Kagura woke sweating with tears sliding down the sides of her face. Her eyes darted around the campsite. She was alive and not a mother. She was laying on her back by a log. The last waking memory she had was that of her sitting by Sesshoumaru on said log and stroking his hair. He was nowhere to be seen. Had he taken the time to lay her there when he left? Judging from her position by the log, she didn’t think it was possible she had fallen. She would have almost certainly awakened at the impact and she was sure she hadn’t woke at all until this nightmare shook her from her slumber.

The only other person around, if one could call him a person, was Jaken. He was silently stoking the campfire. He looked up when Kagura approached and averted his eyes when she sat down across from him.

“Where are Sesshoumaru and Rin?” Kagura asked.

“Rin is searching for roots. I don’t know where Lord Sesshoumaru is, he left before I was awake. He is probably on another canvass of the area to make sure you didn’t bring any trouble,” Jaken said.

“What is it with you? Why do you have this attitude toward me? Can you not see that I care for your lord and that he appears to reciprocate… at least to some extent?” Kagura shook her head.

“I’m only looking out for my master. The last thing he needs is to be distracted by a woman.”

“Oh no, better he be distracted by a young child or a bumbling fool of a servant who are always getting into trouble and needing rescued.”

“Good point and well made, Lady Kagura.” Jaken scratched his hairless head. “What is that?” He pointed to the string of connected flat square objects hanging out of the front of Kagura’s kimono.

“Oh, these?” Kagura pulled out the objects. “Kagome gave me these to use with Sesshoumaru.”

“What are they for?” Jaken asked.

“Well, as far as I understand, they’re to protect me from your lord’s seed. He puts the vegetation contained inside these little packages on his-” She eyed Jaken for a second, “On his sword and then I‘m supposed to be safe from him sowing his seed in my soil.”

Jaken took the objects from Kagura to better view them. He tore one from the many and returned her the rest.
“Interesting. Excuse me.” Jaken got up and walked from the fire. He slipped from view beyond the trees.

“Hmmm,” Kagura said to herself, “Weird little creature.”

II

“Lord Sesshoumaru! Lord Sesshoumaru!”

Sesshoumaru heard Jaken crying his name as he drew near to camp. He’d done a wider search this day in case he missed something the day before by being to inwardly focused - in more ways than one. Jaken came running like a maniac and, looking every direction but straight ahead, collided with Sesshoumaru‘s knees. He fell flat on his back and shook his dazed little green head. He looked up at Sesshoumaru’s annoyed face and struggled to his feet.

“Lord Sesshoumaru!” Jaken ejaculated.

“I heard you the first two times. What is it, Jaken?” Sesshoumaru asked.

“I have something to tell you about Lady Kagura,” Jaken panted.

“What is it? Did something happen to her?”

“It’s true you care deeply for the woman isn’t it, my lord?”

“You ask such stupid questions, Jaken.” Jaken was right. He knew his face showed it. He couldn’t hide his concern when he heard there was something to be told about ‘Lady Kagura.’

“Shall I continue, Lord Sesshoumaru, or do you not wish to know?” Jaken began wringing his little hands. Sesshoumaru turned away.

“Do as you will, Jaken.” Sesshoumaru said.

“Kagura was gifted by Kagome some kind of charm which you are to put on your sword in order to keep your seed from her.” Jaken held up the parcel he carried with him. Sesshoumaru saw it from the corner of his eye and turned back to Jaken in order to receive it. He held it up and looked at it for a few seconds.

“Did you steal this from her without her knowledge?” Sesshoumaru felt a burning in the pit of his stomach.

“No, my lord. She willingly fed me the information and allowed me to see the charms of her own free will.” Jaken replied, his voice beginning to shake a little.

“Charms, plural? You mean she has more than one of these?” That burning began to rise.

“Yes, my lord. She said you are to take the vegetation inside and place it on your sword and then she will be ‘safe.’ Those are the words she used.” Jaken backed up a little. Sesshoumaru turned again. He felt so betrayed - all those moments they spent together were a lie. He opened the wrapper on the durex, took the slick, stretchy object from the inside and examined it. ‘As she wishes,’ he thought.

“Did she happen to say which sword it was supposed to be applied to?” Sesshoumaru asked without turning.

“No, my lord but I believe her lack of mentioning it must have indicted your birthright - the Tenseiga.” Jaken replied. Sesshoumaru turned to Jaken and handed him the gooey vegetation. He drew Tenseiga and looked at it.

“Jaken,” he knelt down to Jaken’s level and turned Tenseiga’s hilt toward him, “Do you see where that piece of vegetation rolls up?”

“Yes, my lord.”

“Roll it down onto the hilt of Tenseiga.”

“Yes, my lord!”

“If she wants me to use this so I will stay away from her, so be it.”

---
Part X in progress.

OMG!
Kagura finally had the baby! Yay.

That is just hilarious... What a great moment, rolling it out on the tensaiga. I was chuckling and snorting.

Tho you did throw me off a bit in part I with that dream sequence, the labor, the ears. Man I was ready to post a "I feel cheated" post. but whew... then she woke!!

Keep up the great work. :victory:

Errr, you may want to read it again... I'll make some adjustments and hopefully things will be clearer. My bad!

too wierd... We've posted simultaniously three times, since you started this. :excited:

Anyways like I said its a great story, I hope you post another part tonite.

As a matter of fact, I'm working on the final few (or several, it's turning out) paragraphs of Part X right now. Just have to finish and spend about three hours proofreading and then it will be up :-)
Thanks so much for all your interest and support, you guys!

Oh. It was only a dream.

^^;;; My bad.

[jaw dropped]

O:

[five minutes later]

[manages to close mouth]

[stammers]

.....

[bursts out lauging]

Omg.... xDDDD

LMFAO

Part X

I

Rin returned not long after Jaken left with edible roots and Kagura joined her for the chewy breakfast. They both cleaned up in the creek and sat by the fire to dry. Sitting and talking soon turned to laying and napping.

Lunchtime passed and dinnertime was approaching. Rin fished and Kagura cooked. They sat fireside, Kagura on one side of the campfire and Rin on the other, and ate their final meal of the day. The bright sky began to dim behind the trees. Sesshoumaru returned to camp with Jaken and sat next to Rin. He looked unusually troubled.

“Everything all right out there? You were gone a long time,” Kagura noted. Sesshoumaru did not respond, only stared into the flames of the campfire.

“Lord Sesshoumaru, Lady Kagura and I cooked fish and I also found roots for us to eat. Please, have your fill,” Rin smiled.

“I’m not hungry,” Sesshoumaru said. Kagura turned to Jaken who sat nearer to her.

“What’s wrong with him?” She asked. Jaken only shook his head in reply. That was when she noticed the strange film over Tenseiga’s hilt. She recognized that membrane. It looked like the one that surrounded Kagome’s first two fingers after she had applied the love charm to them.

“Sesshoumaru, what’s on your sword?” She asked. His eyes stared out from under the white fringe that obscured the majority of his forehead, save for the blue crescent moon right in the middle, and she shuddered.

“Master Jaken, perhaps we should go find more firewood,” Rin said and stood. Jaken didn’t move at first.

“Master Jaken!” Rin pulled at his sleeve.

“All right, all right! I’m coming,” he cried. They departed from fireside and skittered off into the woods.

“Sesshoumaru, are you all right?” Kagura tilted her eyebrows in concern. Those amber eyes peering at her with such disdain. What had Jaken done? He obviously had given Sesshoumaru the charm and explained at least some part of its purpose for there it was, on Sesshoumaru’s sword. Was he really that angry at her for just wanting to be careful?

“Sesshoumaru, please speak to me,” Kagura begged. Sesshoumaru slid the love charm from the hilt of his sword and tossed it aside.

“You can tell InuYasha’s wench that this charm does not work,” Sesshoumaru ordered.

“Well, in all fairness, it’s not being used the way it is supposed to be,” Kagura swallowed hard, “How did you expect it to work?”

“The way you told Jaken it would work. You have a lot of nerve not trusting me. It was supposed to push me from you - to deter me from being near you - was it not?” Sesshoumaru glared.

“All due respect, Sesshoumaru, but that is completely false. That is not what that charm is to be used for at all,” Kagura explained.

“Then how, pray tell, was its use misconstrued?”

“Well, first off, you had it on the wrong sword.”

“Very well then. I put it on Toukijin and then what happens?”

Kagura restrained a smile.
“No. It goes on your other sword, my lord.” Sesshoumaru didn’t look amused. Kagura sighed and dropped her head.
“This is so embarrassing.” She touched her hand to her forehead. “This is not the way I wanted this to come about.”

“Wanted what to come about? You have some serious explaining to do, Kagura,” Sesshoumaru said. He laid his hand on Toukijin. Kagura had to think. How on earth was she supposed to explain the charm’s true purpose? How had it happened that she was not only forced to confess her intentions but her true feelings as well? This day was bad from the start - from that awful nightmare to this mortification. And Sesshoumaru was finished being patient.

II

Fear was adequately apparent on Kagura’s face. Sweat beaded on her forehead and tears welled in her eyes. How was it that he still felt compassion for this woman? He took his hand from Toukijin and laid it in his lap.
“Kagura,” he pushed.

“Sesshoumaru, it should be no secret that I have certain feelings for you and those feelings have not changed. I don’t know what Jaken told you but if it had been anywhere near the truth-” she broke off and looked into space.

“Tell me the truth, then.” Sesshoumaru allowed his face to soften a little. Kagura stood and walked around the fire. Sesshoumaru got to his feet and found himself practically nose to nose with Kagura. She looked up into his eyes with such terrible desperation.

“Tell me the truth. Would you be this angry if you did not share with me the very feelings you denied you were even capable of just the other day?” She asked. His eyes widened without his permission. His breath was caught in his throat. He kept his lips pushed tightly together in his own bite.

Kagura’s expression neutralized.
“That’s what I thought. I know what you did after I fell asleep last night. I know, when you decided to leave, you laid me by the log with care - the care of a person who feels sentiment. Who feels love for another.”
Sesshoumaru still didn’t have a reply, only let his lips relax and settled his eyes so that maybe she wouldn’t infer any more information from his face. The tears which had calmed mere moments before began to well in those crimson eyes again.

“Sesshoumaru, that charm,” her voice shook, “Is intended to contain your seed so that, should you expel it in me, I do not risk becoming pregnant. That is what that vegetation is used for,” she said, her eyes connected with his. She turned from him and folded her arms over her chest. “There, you know the truth,” she concluded. He felt his face tighten into an expression of remorse. He had a lot of nerve not trusting her.

He stepped forward and reached his hand out to her shoulder but hesitated to touch. He could hear her breathing heavily. He took a deep breath of his own and let his hand fall on her shoulder. She immediately turned and put her arms around his waist. She smushed her face into his chest and cried quietly. He closed his arm around her and stroked her side with his hand.

“I didn’t mean to keep anything from you,” she moaned, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to love you.” The word ‘love’ was a frightened breath, as if to admit it out loud might be cause for him to slay her where she stood.

“Kagura, you want that with me?” Sesshoumaru breathed softly. She nodded against his chest.
“And all you wanted to do was protect me from impregnating you? But why? Why do you so fear the chance I might cause you to bear my child?” He asked. She turned her face up to his, suddenly tearless.

“Because, if that child were to come out any part human, you’d slay us both,” Kagura replied. The sun set and the first stars peeked out as the moon began to rise. Sesshoumaru brought his hand up and freed Kagura’s raven hair from her bun. He began to stroke it the way she had done with his.

“I can’t say what I would do if you were to have me a half-human child but I doubt I could find any reason to kill my own progeny, let alone you. If it makes you feel safer, you may keep those love charms.” Sesshoumaru continued to stroke her dark wavy tresses. They looked at each other for what felt like an eternity and then Kagura closed her eyes and lifted her face until their lips touched.

That pressure and tingling he felt before was overwhelming just then and Sesshoumaru found himself accepting her kisses open-mouthed. His tongue slid by hers and his hand drifted south down her back. He permitted her to push him to the ground and straddle him where that pressure pushed its source between her legs. She opened her kimono, let the string of small square parcels fall by Sesshoumaru’s side and the garment slide off her shoulders and down her pale arms to his lap. He slid his hand up her torso and over her right breast. She shivered. She leaned down to kiss him again and he let his hand slide over the smooth raised texture of the spider-shaped scar that covered her back.

“Sesshoumaru," Kagura breathed, "I love you." She slipped off his armor and slid her hands over his chest under his kimono, which was beginning to open and slide back from him onto the earth. She kissed his neck and he closed his eyes. He was fairly sure, in the over a hundred years that he lived, he couldn’t remember ever feeling that way. He couldn’t remember ever letting anyone get that close to him before and it was a little scary, even for a great demon like him. He slid his hand up Kagura’s thigh, her kimono riding up with it, and let it rest on her naked hip.

“Have you ever been this close to anyone before?” He asked. Kagura moved her face over his and shook her head no.

“Are you afraid?” He questioned next. Her face took on apprehension.

“A little,” she replied. He brought his hand up and stroked the side of her face.

“Don’t be,” he whispered and then kissed her lips.

---
Still more to come, no pun intended... or is it?!

WOW!!! This is your best chapter yet. Not cuase of the situation, but it is just so well writin. You do such a great job creating the visual of Sesshoumaru.

Plus: holy crap their rollin around the campfire, and Rin knowing when to give them some time alone. And Sesshy saying he would not slay his own progeny. Man he's falling in love, big time.

Sorry i was really pumped after I read this, I tend to ramble...AWESOME update!

You're too kind :blush: