The Black Dog | By : Fourshotchild Category: InuYasha > Het - Male/Female > Sessh?maru/Kagome > Sessh?maru/Kagome Views: 22903 -:- Recommendations : 2 -:- Currently Reading : 1 |
Disclaimer: I do not own InuYasha, nor make money from this story. |
Nine days passed in silence. Twelve hours each day was dedicated towards Kagome’s training, and each day they grew further apart. Sesshomaru hunted alone and Rin stood beside them every moment. The miko challenged herself with Tsuki only to rid herself of the awkwardness and shame. She knew the tai-youkai could never love a human. Kagome set herself up for torment. The moment she killed that horrid demon, something came over her. Energy coursed through her body making her act before thinking. She considered it was the thrill of her slaughter. No doubt that’s what he thought. However, Sesshomaru reciprocated. He opened his mouth and let her enter. Why? She lay awake pondering this question for hours. In the end, the priestess gave up. The sooner she finished basic training, the sooner she could return to her friends.
At sunrise, dark clouds shrouded the sky. The vibrant yellows, oranges, and pinks shown like patches between thick puffs. Kagome continued to rest on the cool floor until the others awoke. Her furry cheek pressed on the cool floor. The calming scent of rain caressed her snout. She released a deep sigh making her belly sink in. Mornings were beautiful in the feudal era. The large buildings of Tokyo blocked most of the horizon. When her alarm clock rang at seven, shadows were casted across the shrine. The darkness always made Kagome want to snuggle deep under her comforter and hit snooze. Old Japan was the exact opposite. There was no need for alarms or bedding. The sun’s rays greeted one’s eyes lovingly. Life was spent in thought and comfort.
A tiny yawn erupted about six feet away. Kagome didn’t turn her head. Rin woke up energetic and chatty. The priestess made the mistake several times of showing her attention early. Sesshomaru’s ward would giggle, pet her, and attempt to ride her like a pony before the miko could blink. A grace period had automatically been set after these occurrences. Until the inu-youkai rose, Kagome played possum. She adored Rin but mornings were the only time she could spend alone.
Footsteps echoed at a distance. Totosai was up for the day as well. The soft thumps became louder as each moment passed. Then sliding on the stone floor told Kagome that Sesshomaru had risen. One would never hear the prince yawn or stretch. His feet would be the only indicator of his awakening. They’d slide forward from his sitting position as he rose. “Sesshomaru-sama,” Rin exclaimed. “Good morning!” Kagome knew he gave her a curt nod without looking. She’d witnessed this routine for two weeks now.
“I made tea and rice,” Totosai greeted. Rin clapped her hands, while the miko picked herself off the floor. She gave her coat a nice shake before meeting the eyes of the others. The girl gifted her with a smile. “Come on then before it becomes cold!”
Kagome’s brown eyes turned to the right and found Tsuki. It remained sheaved. Her large jaws grasped it and she transformed into her human form. Over the past week, her fear of being publically naked had disappeared. She figured her dog half had something to do with it. There was something freeing about being unclothed. Sesshomaru left his pelt aside for her however. The miko imagined he didn’t like the sight of her prancing around naked so she wore it. He kept it slung over the chair he slept in. When she stood, Kagome walked over to stone piece and wrapped the fur around her shoulders. Her eyes never made contact with his.
The fires burned higher in the mornings. Their smoke polluted the air around them. At first, it bothered the canine priestess that she smelled like B-B-Q, but now it was soothing. The warmth caressed her bare skin and its rich flavor conditioned her hair. Water and fire eluded the other horrible scents of nature. She didn’t know how she was going to bear Tokyo let alone the small village of Edo. Kagome could feel her face twist when she came across an unattractive stench. Apart from sword wielding, the miko was attempting to master Lord Sesshomaru’s mask technique. The last thing she wanted was for Inuyasha to notice her nose twitching and eyes burning. All she could do was hope her secret would stay hidden. If the hanyou discovered she was the canine that helped destroy Kikyo, all hell would break loose.
Kagome sat down last at the cold table. Rin set the placing and distributed the rice, while Totosai pour green tea in four ceramic mugs. When everything was settled, chopsticks were in hand and everyone slowly ate their breakfast. The miko nibbled and drank the hot beverage greedily. She never ate much in the mornings. The small girl however devoured everything in sight asking for seconds. Sesshomaru glanced at Kagome’s direction frequently but never said a word. She ignored it. They would train soon enough giving each other undivided attention.
“It’s a beautiful morning,” Totosai smiled breaking the silence. “Lord Sesshomaru and you should train on the far end of the cave so that the rain may bathe you.” Rin nodded in agreement still shuffling rice in her tiny mouth.
“We will not be training today. This Sesshomaru believes the miko to be prepared. We will make our leave after the morning meal.”
All eyes turned to the ice prince. Kagome didn’t feel completely prepared to live alone but she didn’t argue. The time was soon to come. Her brown eyes glittered against the fire and returned to her tea. She stared down into the cup and saw a long, black face. The miko would never get used to her reflection, not in a million years.
“So soon,” Totosai asked. “Do you believe Kagome to be ready for the outside world?”
“Do not question this Sesshomaru. The miko is prepared for any enemy she may cross.” His golden eyes turned to her. “Miko, you need suitable attire. We will stop along the way.” Rin grinned. No doubt the idea of shopping thrilled her. Kagome didn’t share the same appreciation. Buying a kimono finalized the beginning to an end. No longer would she be able to run naked and free. Tsuki would be strapped to her side always against layers of silk. The remainder of her life would be a lie in hiding.
“Thank you Totosai for allowing us to stay in your home. I do appreciate everything that you’ve done.” The words were sweet and clear. It was the first thing Kagome had uttered all morning.
“There is no need to thank me Lady Kagome. It was a pleasure to assist the Shikon miko after an impossible battle. Japan owes you more than they can give. Naraku enslaved many and killed hundreds. Please visit me anytime. I believe I’ll remain here for a few years to come.”
The rest of the meal sat in silence. Rin helped Totosai with the dishes. Kagome wanted to help but was refused. Sesshomaru rose and waited at the edge of cave alone. With everything clean and put away, the trio left the old youkai descending once more on the lord’s white and lavender cloud. The time they had spent there felt like months instead of weeks. Sadness twisted the miko’s gut. She would miss the burning fires, crisp nights, and tranquility of the forgery. Totosai lived a good, simple life. Kagome only wished hers could be the same.
They traveled a few miles before Rin began to slow down. Her round eyes squinted from the high, clouded sun. The miko stopped and picked the girl up into her arms. A small, sleepy smile graced her lips. She shut her eyes and rested her head against Kagome’s collarbone. Sesshomaru’s training had made her stronger. Carrying his ward felt like holding a backpack against her chest. Her long, brown locks swished back and forth against the miko’s torso. The action created music for the remaining three miles before they reached a small village.
Sesshomaru stopped as they reached the border and surveyed the buildings. People dropped what they were doing to stare at him with awe and fear. Kagome took his side and waited. Typically, human villagers screamed and came running with pitchforks but not with the tai-youkai. His aura shouted regality, honor, and beauty. If the miko hadn’t known him, she figured she’d stand like a gawking idiot too. Kagome instantly felt sorry for Inuyasha. Every village them visited began with “demon this” or “murderer that”. The hanyou would never have the luxury to freeze time by jealousy and astonishment.
An older man greeted them after a couple of minutes. He was dressed in iron armor and rough silk: a samurai. He kept his sword at his side and nodded at them. Sesshomaru didn’t return the respectful gesture. He remained stoic and waited for the man to speak. “Good day,” the man rumbled, his voice deep for a medium sized man. “I am Hideo. What brings you to our village?” Rin’s eyes opened hearing the voice and turned her head towards the man. Her small hands rubbed sleep out of her eyes.
“These women need kimonos. Escort this Sesshomaru to your tailor.” Hideo nodded and began walking in the village. Sesshomaru took the lead. Both Kagome and Rin looked around the village curiously. It was slightly bigger than Edo with more huts and gardens. Their citizens continued to watch them at a distance. Some commented Kagome’s state of dress, others on the pairing of the group. Gossip spread like fire and the miko heard every word. Many thought she was a slave, others a prostitute. She could only imagine how strange she looked walking around with white fur tented over her body. Sesshomaru was right in clothing her properly. If she wanted to go unnoticed, she needed to blend.
They stopped at a hut in the middle of town. A pudgy woman greeted them with mysterious, black eyes. She analyzed Kagome up and down like she was a piece of art. Up and down, up and down, her face making odd expressions. “Fugi, these travelers come here purchase two kimonos. Help them with honor,” Hideo commanded. The woman nodded her head still not looking away from the miko. “My lord, would you like to stay with your women or would you like to accompany me. I open my home to you.” The tai-youkai gave a curt nod and followed Hideo to a neighboring home.
“Now, how may I help you,” Fugi asked. Kagome settled Rin on the ground. “I guess we need new kimonos. I’m not very particular, but I think something light. What would you like Rin? Any particular color?” Rin gave a large, toothy smile. The canine miko could see colors and styles cluttering his brown eyes. “Can Rin have purple or white one like Sesshomaru-sama?” Kagome smiled, “Of course.”
“Well then, please come in.” Fugi freed her doorway and let them enter. Silks hung and sat everywhere. Rin let out a childish squeal and began touching everything. Kagome almost stopped her but Fugi gave a sweet smile. The woman obviously adored children and loved the idea of others sharing her passion. “Please take a seat.” Kagome looked around and found three, plush cushions on the floor. Gracefully, she tucked the white pelt underneath her and sat.
“I have a few kimonos that are light.” She walked over to the corner of the room and pulled out two boxes. “These are made from fine silk and embroidered by my hand. I take great pride in my kimonos.” She lifted the lid to one wooden box to reveal a bright red kimono with navy stitching. As she pulled it out, Kagome could see rose like designs weaving in and out of the fabric. Rin let out a deep sigh. The piece was very beautiful but to loud for her. Its color reminded her of Inuyasha and his fire rat attire. She didn’t wish to travel around Japan looking like him nor catching the eye of every male near. Kagome believed even at night, the silk’s sheen would serve as a spotlight. “It’s very beautiful but I think the red is too bright. I think I need something softer or darker. I travel allot.” Fugi nodded in understanding and put the kimono back.
“I believe you might like this one.” She opened the second box to reveal a deep violet kimono nearly black. The stitching was a dark charcoal revealing very little pattern. Fugi handed her the fine piece so she could examine it. Wispy leaves decorated the sleeves and skirt. Each leaf looked as if it was being blown in the wind. The angles they were stitched in were very detailed and life like. Kagome rubbed the cloth and found it thin and soft to the touch. Air could easily flow through. “I love it,” she whispered. Fugi smiled and revealed the inner layer and obi. The miko saw the black materials shine beneath her finger tips. “Perfect.”
“You should try it on and get a feel for it. I know the fur must be hot.” Kagome agreed and dropped the pelt to the floor revealing her naked body. Fugi stepped back a little startled by her lack of modesty. The miko rose from the ground and took the black inner layer from the woman’s hands. She slipped it on and then the beautiful kimono. Fugi helped her with the obi and knotted it in a delicate design as if she were a lady. When she stood fully clothed and turned, Rin gave her one of her big grins. “You look like a princess Kagome-sama.”
Fugi let out a surprised squeak. “Kagome,” she whispered. “Kagome the Shikon miko? I’ve heard many tales about you and your warriors. You’ve saved dozens of villages and slayed many demons! It is an honor to have clothed you…” Her voice trailed off and newly formed appreciation blushed her features. Kagome smiled and nodded. “Thank you. That’s very kind of you.”
“Now what about you child,” she purred. Her large torso twisted to look at Rin. “What design of kimono would you like?” The girl’s face glowed. Ever since Kagome had known her she’d worn the same orange and white checkered kimono. Grass stains covered the knees, and the skirt was too short. It was curious that Sesshomaru hadn’t purchased her a new dress sooner. “Can I have a purple one with puppies on it?” Fugi nodded her head and Rin jumped up and down like she was playing jump rope.
Kagome took her seat again and watched the woman dig out more boxes. She’d placed four onto a small table. Rin looked as if she was going to explode with excitement. “Now, I don’t have a kimono with dogs. I’ve never even considered it, but I do have a few things you might like.” The new information didn’t seem to upset Sesshomaru’s ward completely. Curiosity was getting the best of her.
The first box was larger than the others. Fugi opened it and pulled out a vibrant orange, formal kimono. Blood red paisleys covered every inch of the material. Kagome didn’t know much about traditional Japanese wear but she knew this piece would have taken years to complete. Each thread sewed in precision. The tailor attempted to hand it to Rin but she refused. She looked at her dirty hands and stepped back. A traveling child didn’t need such finery and Rin knew it. Every moment she’d be scared of ruining the fine silk or destroying the vibrant colors. “It’s too pretty,” the girl whispered. Fugi was about to insist but the priestess interfered. “Rin travels allot in the woods. She’s going to need something she can play in and get messy. I think she’d be sad to dirty something so beautiful.” The woman gave a soft smile and put the kimono away. Her thick hands pulled out a box in the bottom of the stack.
“I understand. I believe this one will suit her fine.” As the lid opened, a light lavender kimono peeked through. Rin took a step forward. The new kimono was light, flowing, and traditional. Moon flowers were stitched around the collar and skirt with silver thread. When light touched its surface, it seemed to glow. The small child looked up a Kagome with an angelic face. “I like this one Kagome-sama.” The canine miko nodded and told her to put it on.
Fugi undressed Rin and then redressed her. Kagome knew she couldn’t help in these matters. The woman fluffed the silk and arched the collar. The white inner layer set against the soft purple nicely. When the silver obi was attached with a simple knot, Fugi stepped back once more to see her work. Rin looked like a king’s daughter. Her tiny, white form covered in silk. Only her hands, neck, and face were visible. The only thing interfering with her dainty image was her tangled, brown hair. Kagome walked up to Rin and ran her fingers through it to set it down. “I have a simple clip that would do beautifully.” The woman shuffled her feet, picked up a silver-like comb, and then pulled Rin’s hair into a bun.
“Do I like a princess,” the child asked. “Yes, Rin. You look astonishingly beautiful. Lord Sesshomaru will be very proud of you.”
As if by hearing his name, Sesshomaru walked into the hut without Hideo. He looked over the woman and gave a single nod. “What coin will you take for these kimonos?” Fugi shook her head and smiled towards Kagome. “I will accept nothing but the honor it was been to dress the Shikon Miko. Lady Kagome deserves more than what I can give. I hope you will accept my gifts. They will carry you well throughout your journey.”
Kagome knew better than to say no. Giving back gifts, no matter how expensive, was disgraceful and without honor. She’d learned this lesson throughout her years collecting shards and purifying youkai. “Thank you so much Fugi. They are beyond beautiful. I shall cherish this kimono always.” The miko made her way to Fugi and gave her a gentle hug. She slightly taken back but returned the gesture. Hugs weren’t exactly common.
“Let us be on our way then.” Rin giggled and thanked Fugi, while Kagome tightened Tsuki on her hip. She had to be careful switching from the pelt to the kimono. She could only imagine Fugi’s face if the great Shikon no Tama protector transformed into a dog.
As they stepped outside and headed out the village, people once more stopped what they were doing. However, the comments of whore had changed into the mysterious lady. Kagome couldn’t help the smile that crossed her face. She looked down at the ground to hide it. Sesshomaru noticed. “Miko, humans are ignorant to reality.” She pondered these words for a moment trying to decide if she should be insulted or accept it as a compliment. Ultimately, she decided not to waste her time.
The remainder of the day was spent walking. Trees and pathways soon became familiar. Kagome knew Edo resided less than a mile away. Rin had once again fallen asleep in her arms. They had stopped twice for food and water but nothing was said. Sesshomaru kept to his thoughts, while the miko kept to hers. She didn’t how to feel. What was she going to say? Inuyasha would demand answers not only about her disappearance but of Naraku. Putting one step in front of the other, she considered lying. She could go off on a tale about wishing death upon the evil hanyou and then being teleported into Sesshomaru’s care, but it sounded ridiculous. Inuyasha would be able to detect her deceit through his sensitive nose. The only conclusion she could draw was to be silent. He’d scream and through tantrums but she’d just be. All that was important was Naraku’s death and her return. That’s all he really needed to know.
Sesshomaru glanced at the miko frequently. He noticed her bright eyes were clouded. Her worries poured from her brown orbs. She kept a stone face however. Somehow in their time together she had learned to hide herself. The tai-youkai respected this change. She’d mastered something many humans could not. Her eyes however would always betray her. He knew she was thinking of his half-brother. The hanyou would make an unneeded spectacle. He also knew she wanted her transformation to be a secret. The lord was curious to see how she’d accomplish it. Humans lied. He expected her to do the same, but the half-breed would know. Besides her words of deception, she smelled different, looked different, and now acted different. The humans were right in thinking her a mystery. Gracefully walking around in a kimono altered her further. She no longer looked like a miko, an ordinary human, or the young, childish female she was.
The oranges of the sky began to darken when they reached the edge of the village. Kagome could smell all the human horrors even several yards away. She took in a deep breath and waited. As expected, Inuyasha jumped from the trees and landed only a few feet away in front. Tetsaiga fully transformed. Kagome shook Rin awake and placed her on her feet. The sleepy girl yawned and stumbled to the lord’s side. “Inuyasha,” Kagome whispered.
Inuyasha sped through the forest when he smelt his brother. Their last two visits ending on horrible terms. He wanted the pompous ass on a spit. In all his hurry, he didn’t notice the strange female scent accompanying him. Only when he landed and heard his name escape her lips did he realize it was Kagome. Her scent had dramatically changed. She no longer smelled human. A familiar woodsy aroma replaced her typical floral scent. Her usual bubbly face had turned into a stoic mask. She looked like herself but not. Her long black hair was thicker and had a blue sheen even at dusk. The soft, thin body she had was more muscular. Even the color of her skin was darker as if she’d been kissed by the sun. In all their travels, she’d always burn. Kagome Higurashi had unmistakably changed.
Tetsaiga decreased its form and was replaced at Inuyasha’s side. His gold eyes bore into her, and without a moment’s notice he pulled her into a tight embrace. “You’re alive,” he whispered. “I never thought I’d see you again.”
The miko didn’t know how to react. Being an animal allowed her to see how truly heartless he could be. Even though his arms wrapped around her, she could only think about Kikyo: how she lured in Rin for the slaughter and how Inuyasha didn’t care. He left their friends thinking she was found only to dote upon that wicked woman. “Please stop Inuyasha,” she softly commanded. “I want you to let go of me.”
The hanyou pulled away hesitantly. “What’s wrong Kagome? Did this bastard do something to you?” Kagome shook her head and glanced at Sesshomaru out of the corner of her eye. “No, Lord Sesshomaru was a perfect gentleman. He found me, fed me, and brought me back home.”
“He did what,” the hanyou shouted in disbelief. “That stone cold ass doesn’t care about anyone but himself.” Kagome wanted to slap him then and there. How dare he raise his tone mere inches away from her delicate ears and then call Sesshomaru selfish. She honestly couldn’t believe it, but the canine priestess bit her tongue. Sesshomaru didn’t need her to defend him, no more than she needed him to defend her. Over the last couple weeks, the tai-youkai had proven to be an excellent provider and teacher. Rin was extremely lucky to have him.
“I just really can’t believe this. Where have you been wench,” he continued to shout.
“Half-breed, you will end your incessant squealing now.”
“Fuck you Fluffy! I can scream as much as I want!”
“Please Inuyasha, stop,” Kagome finally interceded. “It’s even hurting my ears.”
The hanyou looked from Sesshomaru to Kagome flabbergasted. Both looked solid as stone. Normally, Kagome would be screaming at him or sitting him about now. In the days she had been gone, something had totally gone wrong. It was as if she was holding herself like Kikyo. The sharp distance, the cold stare, and muted emotions resembled his old lover greatly. Only now, they didn’t really look alike. Kagome had transformed into an exotic woman. A woman—his Kagome had grown up. “What’s up with you?”
“I’m just looking through different eyes now Inuyasha.” It wasn’t a lie. “I’m not going to speak of what’s happened or where I’ve been. Just leave it at that. I’m happy to be back. Naraku’s dead, and I really just don’t feel like listening to you yell about things you don’t understand.”
Sesshomaru’s lips curled into a smirk. No one noticed. His half-brother’s bottom jaw had dropped. The lord misjudged the woman. He thought he’d see tears and a disgusting embrace. Bravo. The miko set out for her goal honestly and was forward about her desires. The dead miko must have made a grave impression on her. He had nearly forgotten about turning the clay pot to ash. His yellow eyes looked down at the priestess. She stood calm and collected. Only a fool would mistake for anything but a lady. His fang rested well on her waist.
“Kagome,” echoed through the forest. All eyes turned to see Sango jogging from the village with Miroku and Shippou at her tail. For the first time since they arrived, the miko smiled. Inuyasha noted this fact and was pushed aside by the ecstatic group. “We were so worried! We looked everywhere!” The kitsune jumped into her chest, while Sango squeezed her into a hug.
“I’m fine really. Sesshomaru took great care of me.” Sango nodded not really listening. Tears began to slip out of the corners of her eyes. After a minute, she took a step back. Shippou refused to let go. “You look different,” she exclaimed. “You look very beautiful. It would seem the lord took great care you!” With a swift turn, she bowed deeply. “Thank you so much Lord Sesshomaru for aiding Kagome and delivering her home safely.” The western lord crossed his arms and nodded.
“Well, let’s get you in town with some food! Kaede just made some rice with rabbit. Would you like to join us Lord Sesshomaru?”
“No,” and with that he walked away. Kagome watched him stride through the trees with Rin reaching for his clawed hand. A sort of emptiness began to fill her. She had wanted to be home so badly and away from him, but now, she didn’t. The miko had began a new chapter in her life with the inu-youkai and didn’t know how travel back. Never would she rest her muzzle on his lap or feel his giant hand scratch her fur. They wouldn’t scrimmage together for hours or hunt…. And his soft lips would never touch hers again. Only when he was fully out of sight did she return her attention back to her friends. They chatted and guided her back to the village oblivious of her newly formed detachment. Inuyasha was the only one that noticed her deep expression and abhorred what he saw.
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