Beautiful Souls

“Sesshoumaru,” Before anyone could stop her, Kagome slid through the door, back outside. “Put him down.” She took a step forward but a warning growl issued from a choking Inuyasha. Instinctively, she froze in her tracks.

A flicker of amusement lit Sesshoumaru’s eyes for only a moment. “At least, you have managed to train your bitch, Inuyasha. It appears that she carries your pup as well. You surprise me.”

“Put me down or I’ll remove your other arm, asshole!” Inuyasha threatened.

Addressing Kagome directly, for perhaps the first time ever, Sesshoumaru shook his head. “This Sesshoumaru hopes that you will have some influence on his manners.” He put Inuyasha back on his feet, never looking at him but continuing to speak with Kagome. “I have need of your assistance. Rin is ill.”

Motion from the direction of the forest caused both Kagome and Inuyasha to look up. Jaken had emerged from the trees with the two-headed dragon Ah-Un. Rin sat slumped on the creature’s back, motionless. Inuyasha glanced at Kagome before approaching the trio, looking closely at the little girl when the two parties met.

“Kagome.”

Inuyasha didn’t look up as he called to her, but she took it as his permission to approach. Only slightly annoyed at his behavior, Kagome went to him as he took Rin down. The girl slept soundly, and as Kagome came nearer, she saw the rash of red bumps covering ever visible surface of her body.

“Not too close,” Inuyasha warned. “I don’t want you exposed to whatever it is. Can you tell from there?”

Kagome nodded, “Chickenpox. I’ve already had them so it’s not dangerous for me to touch her. What about you though?”

Inuyasha grunted, “I’m not worried about human illnesses.”

Jaken’s eyes were wide, “Is it serious? Wherever could Rin have come in contact with chickens?”

Kagome almost ignored the little imp, until she saw Sesshoumaru watching her closely, as though waiting for an answer... to the first question anyway. “You don’t catch it from chickens, just other people. It isn’t usually serious, but it can be. How long has she been sick?”

“The rash appeared this morning, but she started complaining about an upset stomach two or three days ago.” Jaken reported.


Kagome nodded, “That’s normal. The bumps are still clear, so within a week they should turn milky, and then burst. Scabs will form over the spots, and when those fall off she should start feeling better.”

Sesshoumaru stepped forward, making Jaken’s mouth fall open, “Is there anything you can do for her?” He asked quietly.

Hesitantly, Kagome nodded. “There is something I can do, but it will have to wait until I can gather the things I need. Maybe by tonight.”

Sesshoumaru stared for a moment before turning away. “Very well.”

Confused by his behavior, she glanced questioningly at Inuyasha before walking back towards the shrine house. Miroku and the others met her on the porch, and Kagome smiled reassuringly before speaking.

“Have any of you had Chickenpox before?” Kagome asked her friends.

Exchanging glances, everyone shook their heads.

Kagome nodded, “Then I need you all to do this for me. Rin has a disease which is very contagious and could be dangerous to Sango. I need you guys to go back to my time and get some things for me from my mother and Jinenji.”

Sending Shippou to get a pen and notepad from her room, Kagome gave further instructions. “Go see my mother first. Tell her what’s going on. She may have some advice on this, but under no circumstances should you accept anything in a yellow gourd from Jii-Chan.”

Kohaku and Miroku grinned as Shippou handed the requested items to Kagome. Quickly writing out a list and a note to Jinenji, Kagome added, “Sango, if you feel more comfortable staying at my house for a week, feel free. I won’t be able to take her inside either way, so it should be safe for you to come back here if you’d rather.”

After sending them off, Kagome returned to Inuyasha, who was still glaring at Sesshoumaru. Taking Rin from her mate, she gave him a job as well, “Inuyasha, I need a large bathing tub, filled with water, and about a half a pound of rice. Get one of the extra towels from my bag too, please.”

“Are you sure you’re okay around her?” Inuyasha watched her carefully for signs that she was being less than truthful.

Kagome met his gaze steadily, “I’m positive. Meet me at Kaede’s.” Before he could protest her carrying Rin there, she took off. Surprisingly, Sesshoumaru fell into step beside her, as silent as always.

Kagome studied him from the corner of her eye. If she didn’t know any better, she would have guessed from his complete lack of expression that the youkai lord remained unconcerned... even unfeeling. Sesshoumaru rarely allowed emotion to sway him, and in fact, the only sign of feelings she had ever seen move him was anger.

However, Kagome could now see signs she would have certainly missed before adding to her own power that of Kikyou, Midoriko and the Shikon no Tama. Her developing abilities allowed her to see Sesshoumaru’s aura for the first time, and the vision was breathtaking. The electric blue energy from his life force seemed to crackle with power that even she, who had seen him in battle numerous times, had no idea he possessed. Fine tendrils of a much darker blue swirled delicately like smoke, tainting the purity of the aura, and Kagome recognized it as the only hint of his anxiety for the young human girl. It was an anxiety the lord would never allow to show, and probably did not fully understand himself.

“This Sesshoumaru once killed someone for giving me the look you are now.” The inu-youkai said evenly, without looking in her direction. “If you have a question, then ask it.”

Kagome was startled by the invitation, and took a moment to ponder what it was she wanted to know. “ Why did you bring Rin to me?”

“You are human.” Sesshoumaru stated simply. “A miko with great power, yet mated to a hanyou. You were the only one I could trust with Rin’s life who would know how to care for her.”

His frank answer confused her. Kagome had never heard so many words from Sesshoumaru at the same time. Knowing that she was pushing her luck, she continued to ask, “Even though I’m mated to your brother? I thought you hated Inuyasha.”

Still not looking her in the eyes, Sesshoumaru responded, “ Blood is strong among youkai. My brother may only be a hanyou, but half of the blood flowing in his veins belongs to our father. As Inuyasha’s mate, your blood is joined with his.” His glance briefly flickered over the fang shaped scar on the left side of her neck. “This Sesshoumaru does not lower himself to associate with humans. My decision to do so with you is because you are family…” he practically spat the word out, “and you are strong… even without the heart of the Shikon no Tama.”

Kagome nodded, strangely moved by his honesty. Looking down at the sleeping girl in her arms, Kagome softly uttered what she instinctively knew Sesshoumaru would not, “You couldn’t help her… Tenseiga is useless because she isn’t dead, and being a youkai you had no way of knowing how serious her illness was; only that she was sick, and could die if things got worse.”

The implication of Kagome’s words hit both of them at the same time, and she stopped as Sesshoumaru whirled to face her, nostrils flaring at her impertinence. She forced herself to remain calm, meeting his eyes without fear, though her stomach fluttered a bit. ‘Maybe that was a little too personal,’ she thought to herself as she waited for him to say something.

Still, was it possible that what she’d thought could be true? Kagome knew Sesshoumaru cared about Rin. Otherwise, why would he allow her to accompany him? The youkai had saved Rin on at least two occasions that Kagome had been witness to, once actually leaving battle in order to rescue the young girl. Was it possible that the Lord of the Western Lands had feelings for a human?

Sesshoumaru’s eyes dropped to Rin as the girl began to stir in Kagome’s arms. Though his face remained expressionless, an odd light briefly entered his eyes. Expecting anger, or at least punishing silence after her comment, Kagome could barely contain her surprise when he spoke to her in a lower voice then she’d ever heard him use before.

“She will live?” Sesshoumaru asked, looking Kagome dead in the eye, least she lie to him.

Kagome nodded, “I’m sure of it.” She promised, hoping the reassurance in her voice went unnoticed by the easily irritated youkai.

Coughing softly, Rin opened her eyes and stared up at Kagome for a moment, confused. Intuitively, her eyes shifted towards Sesshoumaru and the puzzlement faded when he stepped into her line of vision. A weak smile lit her face, though when she tried to speak, another cough wracked her small body.

Kagome smiled, “ Hey there, Rin. Take it easy, and we’ll get you fixed up in no time.”

Rin nodded quietly, looking to Sesshoumaru for reassurance that all was fine. Though the youkai did not meet the girl’s eyes, the slight incline of his head seemed to relax her and she settled herself more comfortably in Kagome’s arms.

A sudden thought occurred to Kagome, and she glanced sideways at Sesshoumaru, “How did you know about the Jewel?” She asked quizzically.

“You forget… I was at the battle.” Sesshoumaru reminded her.

Kagome frowned and shook her head, “Yes, but you specifically said ‘the heart of the Shikon no Tama.’ How could you have known about that?”

Sesshoumaru gave her an odd look as they stopped in front of Kaede’s hut. “Inuyasha mentioned it when he came to my palace about your mating.”

’So he was there,’ Kagome thought. In all the excitement surrounding the wedding, she had forgotten Inuyasha’s mysterious disappearance in the days leading up to their mating. She had never asked where he’d been, and he’d never volunteered the information. She would have to talk with him about it later. Although Sesshoumaru was being uncharacteristically open and less hostile to them, it was unthinkable that Inuyasha’s visit to the older inu-youkai had been a social call.

Kaede appeared in the doorway of her hut, perhaps having sensed the strong youkai presence approaching. When the woman saw Kagome, she put aside the bow and arrow in her hands and came forward to help. Though she had not seen her apprentice in over a week, Kaede wasted no time on pleasantries as she assessed the ill child.

Kagome smiled, “It’s chickenpox. I sent the others to my mom and Jinenji to get some things there. Inuyasha is bringing a washtub and some rice for a scrub.”

Kaede nodded, “She will need to rest for at least a week. I have some herbs to reduce her temperature, but I’m afraid there’s not much more I can do for this ailment.”

“Have you had the chickenpox, Kaede? I’d keep Rin at our house, but I’m the only one who’s had them already, and both Sango and I are pregnant.” Kagome blushed as shock, and then joy overtook the old woman’s face. It wasn’t how she wanted to break the news, but it was necessary in this situation.

“I had them when I was five. The disease spread to my lungs, and were it not for Kikyou onee-sama, I would have died. The child may stay here with me. I will prepare a place for her.” It was only after these arrangements had been made that Kaede turned to examine the youkai lord, as well as the imp and two-headed dragon that followed behind him at a discreet distance.

Sesshoumaru had turned away while the two women discussed Rin’s care, feigning disinterest. Kaede’s deliberate examination caused him to return her stare with equal intensity.

Kaede nodded decisively, “Thou art Sesshoumaru-sama; Inuyasha’s brother. Ye resemble each other greatly. The child belongs to thee? Ye are welcome in my village, if ye promise to behave thyself.”

Kagome groaned inwardly. Kaede always spoke firmly and directly, but she was liable to insult the youkai if she treated him like a child. She noticed that Jaken had already taken offense on his master’s behalf, and was sputtering with indignation. To her great surprise and relief, Sesshoumaru took no notice of the old miko’s brisk manner, and simply nodded in compliance.

Inuyasha chose that moment to return with the items Kagome had sent him for, and she was glad to have an excuse to ease the tension she was feeling in Sesshoumaru’s presence. Even when he was almost pleasant, the lord made her nervous. He was becoming more and more unpredictable.
Directing Inuyasha to place the tub on the side of the hut, where they would be afforded a little more privacy, Kagome followed, setting Rin down when they stopped.

Rin coughed again, making Kaede frown. Though obviously not feeling well, the girl was otherwise alert as she patiently waited for Kagome to tell her what to do.

“How do you feel about a bath, Rin?” Kagome asked with a smile.

“Sesshoumaru-sama let’s Rin bathe in the river... or sometimes a hot spring.” Rin said, her trademark grin conspicuously missing.

Kagome stuck her hand in the large wooden tub to test the water, “Today we’re gonna take a bath in here, okay?”

Rin looked uncertain... then saddened perceptively. “Like Rin used to with haha-ue(1).”

Solemnly, Kagome nodded. She kept quiet, allowing the girl a chance to think it over.

Eyeing the tub suspiciously, Rin glanced towards Kagome before reaching out with her toe and submerging it in the water. The day was a warm one, and Kagome would have liked a nice bath herself, so she wasn’t surprised at the shy smile Rin gave before stepping into the tub.

Kagome helped Rin remove her kimono and grinned as the girl sighed, sinking down until water covered her to the neck. Opening the bag of rice Inuyasha had found for her, she grabbed a handful and gently began scrubbing the child’s skin, using the rice as an exfoliate. Inuyasha had disappeared after delivering the tub, and now he returned again, carrying Kagome’s bath bag and a towel. She smiled up at him in thanks before he went to Sesshoumaru.

Sesshoumaru waited no more than twenty feet away from the place where Kagome bathed Rin. Although his brother’s eyes never looked in their direction, Inuyasha was certain that the youkai was monitoring them in his own way. He approached from behind, and his suspicions were confirmed when Sesshoumaru spoke to him.

“What was that you brought her?”

“Soap for the hair and body.... They’re scentless,” Inuyasha added, noticing the tiny sniff of displeasure Sesshoumaru gave him. “I made her stop bringing the scented stuff a long time ago so some youkai wouldn’t mistake her for dessert.”

“How wise... you should have given a thought to her manner of dress as well... unless you like your mate exposing herself to everyone.” Sesshoumaru mocked.

Inuyasha frowned and turned to look at Kagome. Dressing in appreciation of the warm weather, she was wearing denim shorts and a white cotton blouse she called a ‘peasant’s shirt’. Currently, the sleeves were pushed up to keep them out of the water. However, she and Rin had started a splashing fight and the light fabric clung tightly to her figure, giving a clear impression of what lay underneath.

Frowning, Inuyasha leapt over to Kagome, “Oi! Bitch!” Kagome looked up at him, still giggling from her game with Rin. Water had flattened her bangs against her forehead, and a single drop hung from one lank section in the center.

The irritation Sesshoumaru had roused in him started dying as Inuyasha loomed over his mate. Even looking like a drowned rat, she was still adorable. Kagome’s cheeks were pleasantly flushed from laughing, and her eyes sparkled. More than that, seeing his woman kneeling next to the young bather who looked so much like her own child, Inuyasha felt a surge of warmth at the idea of her doing the same thing with their pups someday.

Cursing under his breath, Inuyasha removed his haori and wrapped it around her shoulders. Kagome looked down and blushed when she realized his reason, and sheepishly slipped her arms into the sleeves, pulling the front closed as well. Inuyasha shook his head with a smile.

Grabbing a towel, Kagome helped Rin out of the tub and began drying her off. The girl looked as though she was starting to feel better already. Sending her inside to get dressed, Kagome ran a hand through her bangs, trying to repair the damage with a deep sigh.

Inuyasha’s eyes filled with concern. He was immediately beside her, one arm around her waist, the opposite hand resting gently on her stomach. “ You tired? Do you need to rest?”

Kagome smiled reassuringly, standing on tiptoe to kiss his cheek. “ Relax, I’m fine. Besides, I’m pretty much done for now. Kaede can take care of Rin until Sango and the others come back with the things I asked for. I’ll check in later tonight.”

Inuyasha looked up in the direction of his brother. “What about him?” he muttered under his breath.

Approaching Sesshoumaru, Kagome cleared her throat to get his attention. The youkai did not look at her, but she had the distinct impression that he was focused upon her already, and had been since arriving. “Sesshoumaru? You are welcome to join us for dinner… and to stay in our home if you like,” she offered.

“This Sesshoumaru does not eat the food of humans, nor does he require sleep,” he stated, slightly amused. “ I shall remain here until you return, Miko.”

Kagome nodded and turned towards the hut, recognizing the formality that had returned to his manner as a sign of dismissal. Inside, Kaede was getting Rin settled onto a tatami mat, and had wrapped blankets around her tightly. The room smelled strongly of tea, and Rin’s eyes were getting heavy again.

“Kagome-chan?” Rin yawned, rubbing her eyes.

Kagome crouched down next to the girl, “Do you need anything, Rin?”

Rin struggled to stay awake, “Where’s… Sesshoumaru-sama?”

“He’s waiting for you outside. Sesshoumaru isn’t going anywhere.” Kagome promised.

A smile crept to Rin’s face as she fell into a contented sleep.

Kagome brushed the girls hair away from her face, and looked up at Kaede. “You look worried. Is anything the matter?”

Kaede hesitated before shaking her head. “It is nothing. I was merely concerned about the child’s cough, but she appears fine now.” Smiling, the old woman reached out to hug Kagome. “Congratulations to both ye and Sango. It would be nice to have little one’s in the family before I’m too old to enjoy it.”

Kagome grinned at Kaede’s choice of the word ‘family.’ “Well, Kaede obaa-chan(2), you’ll have plenty of time with them before that happens.”

After making plans to come back with medicine later than night, Kagome rejoined a sullen Inuyasha and began walking home.

Inuyasha was quite until they were beyond Sesshoumaru’s earshot. “You invited him to dinner, and to stay with us!” he stated incredulously. “Why would you go and do a thing like that?”

Kagome shrugged. “He’s obviously really worried about Rin and I felt sorry for him. Besides, have you noticed he’s being almost… pleasant?”

Inuyasha grunted, “Keh. He just wanted you to help Rin.”

“No, he could have just demanded my help and I would have done it anyway… for her sake. He actually talked with me on the way to Kaede’s…. I can only think of one or two other times that he’s spoken directly to me before.” Kagome decided.

“He seems to really like the kid… maybe that’s his way of showing it.” Inuyasha didn’t know what to make of his brother’s behavior, but now that he thought about it, the fact that Sesshoumaru hadn’t tried to kill him when he’d shown up at the palace was a sign that something had been going on then too.

As if reading his mind, Kagome gave him a curious look, “By the way… why didn’t you tell me you went to see Sesshoumaru before our wedding?”

Inuyasha looked chagrined, “I forgot,” he admitted. “I guess I was pretty wrapped up in other things,” he added with a suggestive smile.

Kagome smiled back, “What did you want to see him for? You wouldn’t tell me where you were going, and I was worried about you.”

Inuyasha became thoughtful, “I was afraid that Sesshoumaru might try to kill you after we mated. I went to tell him that I’d kill him if he came near you. I didn’t want to say anything that would make you upset.”


“Why would he want to kill me?” Kagome asked.

“Because you’re human!” Inuyasha said as though it were obvious. “He wanted to kill our old man for marrying my mother and siring me. I didn’t want to take a chance that he’d come after you, so I wanted to have it out right then, if that was his plan.”

Kagome nodded, “Well… what did he say?”

Inuyasha frowned, “Not a lot… as usual. He said he wasn’t interested in you and made me stay the night… that’s why it took me longer to get home. He gave me our family crest the next morning; the one I wore to the wedding.”

Suddenly Inuyasha remembered something else. “Oh yeah…. There was something else really strange. He asked me what love was.”

Kagome’s eyes widened in shock, “He asked you what ?

Inuyasha nodded, “Yeah. He was watching Rin play in the garden and he asked what was it about love... about you that was more important to me than power.”

Kagome thought about it for a minute, then nodded as if it all made sense. “What did you tell him?”

“What... now you’re digging for compliments?” He smirked, pulling her against his side.

Kagome grinned. The two reached their house in companionable silence, stopping on the porch to sit for a moment and watch the sun sink into the west. Turning to her husband, she started to ask him, “Do you think Sesshoumaru - “

“Yes.” Inuyasha didn’t need for her to finish her thought. He’d been wondering about the same thing.

“Do you think he knows?” Kagome wondered.

Inuyasha considered it before answering, “Yeah, I do. Question is, will he ever admit it?”

Sighing, Kagome stood up. “Come on. Let’s get some dinner before I have to go back to Kaede’s.”

Inuyasha didn’t have to be asked twice. The hanyou beat his wife to the kitchen, and by the time she got there, he had already pulled out three bowls of Ramen for her to prepare.

Just as the couple was sitting down to eat, Miroku and Sango returned, carrying a duffel bag. Kagome filled them in on all that had happened as she pulled three more bowls of Ramen from the cabinet and poured the still steaming hot water into the noodles.


Inuyasha accepted his third helping and turned to Miroku and Sango as they started dinner. “So, did you get everything Kagome wanted?” he asked.

Miroku nodded, swallowing a mouthful of broth. “Yes. Kagome’s mother was happy to help. We had to wait a bit for Jinenji, but he sent some things as well, along with a note explaining what to do.”

“Did he get to take a look at you, Sango?” Kagome questioned her friend.

Sango smiled and nodded, “Yes. He said I’m three weeks pregnant, and he gave me a prescription for something. Your mother said she’d get it for me and I could pick it up when we returned. Kohaku and Shippou wanted to play with Souta, so they’ll be staying there for a few days until Rin is well again.”

Inuyasha smirked, looking at Miroku. “Three weeks, huh? That would have been your wedding night. You don’t waste any time, do you, Monk?”

Kagome gasped through barely contained laughter and slapped her mate’s arm. “Inuyasha!” She noticed that Sango was blushing, but seemed amused that the hanyou was teasing Miroku about his relationship, instead of the other way around.

Miroku smiled placidly, “Nor do you, my friend. It seems we have more in common than we thought.”

The two women watched their husbands, unsure if Inuyasha would be offended by the comment or not. Neither expected the hanyou’s actual response. Looking at Kagome, he began to chuckle with an evil look on his face.

Sango looked started as she leaned over to Kagome, “Why’s he laughing?” she whispered.

Kagome blushed, “He’s expressing male solidarity over their appreciation of women.”

“Huh?” Sango frowned.

Kagome whispered in her friend’s ear, and now both women were blushing. Miroku and Inuyasha had a similar twinkle in their eyes as their wives looked at them.

“Hentai,” the girls muttered in unison, giving their men a light swat on the arm. This caused another bout of laughter from Inuyasha, while Miroku decided to play innocent.

“Sango, my love! Am I to be held responsible for Inuyasha’s ettchi(3) thoughts?” Miroku protested, eyes wide.

Sango gave him an amused look, “You’re a bad influence, Houshi.”


Inuyasha’s eyes were beginning to water by now, “He is… isn’t he, Kagome?”

Kagome just shook her head in wonder at her mate’s spontaneous good humor. He sure had lightened up over the years. It was nice to see him having fun for a change.

Miroku grinned, “Yes, do tell Kagome... in what ways have I influenced our Inuyasha?”

Standing up, Sango grabbed Miroku’s robe and hauled him to his feet. “All right, that’s enough you two. I’m going to bed. Goodnight everyone.”

As she turned to walk away, Sango gasped as she was picked up from behind and thrown over Miroku’s shoulder.

“ Please… allow me.” Miroku offered gallantly, carrying the surprised taijiya hurriedly towards their bedroom.

Inuyasha shot a fang-baring grin at Kagome. “ We should go to bed ourselves.” He told her.

Kagome sighed. “No,” she grinned at his expression of surprise. “I have to go see Rin again, remember?” Standing up, she leaned over to kiss him. “Afterwards, though….”

Her thoughts remained unfinished as Miroku returned to the dining room and cleared his throat to announce his intrusion.

“Sorry to interrupt,” The monk began with a wink.

Inuyasha raised an eyebrow. “Back so soon?” he teased.

Miroku glared at him for the insinuation, before smiling at Kagome. “I almost forgot. Your Jii-Chan sent this,” he said, pulling an envelope from his pocket.

Kagome frowned, “Jii-Chan sent me a letter? What for?”

Miroku shook his head, “It’s not for you…. It’s for Kaede.”

*****************

Inuyasha refused to allow Kagome to walk to Kaede’s hut by herself, and insisted that he was coming with her whether she liked it or not. Kagome took one look at the determination on his face, and didn’t bother to argue. She would be perfectly safe walking the one hundred feet between the two locations, but she knew that it would be better to just give in to the overprotective hanyou. Besides, it wasn’t as though she didn’t enjoy his company. The job would just take more time with him acting as her bodyguard.


Sesshoumaru stood where they had last seen him, gazing into the distance as though deep in thought. Jaken and Ah-un had settled themselves against the base of a tree and were sleeping soundly. He did not look up as they approached, and Kagome wasn’t sure whether to greet him or not.

Inuyasha eyes his half-brother warily. The older youkai’s recent behavior was strange, but that did not bother the hanyou as much as this sudden request for help… from a human… from Kagome. Although Kagome was strong, and her miko training made her an ideal candidate, it still didn’t explain why Sesshoumaru would have chosen to come to them. He had a feeling that there was some other explanation, and Inuyasha wasn’t sure he wanted to know what that was.

Kagome paused behind Sesshoumaru, hesitating before entering Kaede’s hut. “I brought the medicine,” she announced. The inu-youkai made no reply other than the nod of his head. She knocked softly on the doorframe, and Kaede immediately ushered her inside.

Rin was awake, and began pulling herself into a sitting position as Kagome and Inuyasha entered. The young miko smiled reassuringly as she examined the girl. The red spots were angry and red, looking as if they’d burst at any moment. Rin absently scratched at her cheek, whimpering in frustration when Kagome reminded her to keep her hands off.

“I’ve got something that’ll help.” Kagome said cheerfully. Giving Inuyasha a look so they could have some privacy, she waited until he’d stepped outside before pulling a bottle from the duffel bag.

“This is called calamine lotion. I’m going to put it over each of your spots and it’ll make the itching feel better.” Helping the girl undress, Kagome applied the pink lotion to the girl’s body in sections, trying to keep her clothed as much as possible. Rin’s cough already sounded better than this afternoon, but her skin was warm to the touch, and her eyes were shiny with fever.

Next, Kagome pulled out a box of cornmeal and handed it to Kaede. “Keep this here until tomorrow, okay?” To Rin she explained, “For your bath tomorrow, we’re going to use this instead of rice. The cornmeal makes a nice mush that we can apply to your skin. It’ll be fun.”

A bottle of purple liquid came next, and Rin made a funny face after swallowing the cold medicine. Kagome laughed, “I know, it tastes awful, but it really will help your cold.” She held the bottle up in front of her face, wrinkling her nose at it. “It’s supposed to taste like grape, but I never thought it did.”

Having gone over her supplies before arriving, Kagome hesitated for just a moment before removing the last item from her bag. A small black box with a note attached was what Jinenji had provided for Rin’s treatment. Inside was a syringe with a hypodermic needle attached, and a vial of medication. Kagome did not relish the idea of giving the child a shot, but she knew there was no other choice.

Rin’s eyes widened at the sight of the needle, and the girl looked to Kagome for an explanation. Kaede, who observed from nearby, moved to sit next to the two girls, taking the youngest one’s hand in hers.

Kagome smiled, trying not to look nervous. “Rin, I need to give you some medicine with this needle. It’ll hurt a little, but only for a minute.”

Rin swallowed and nodded slowly, trying to be brave. She bit her lower lip as Kagome pushed up the kimono sleeve and swabbed alcohol onto a patch of skin on the child’s upper arm. Following Jinenji’s instructions, Kagome removed the protective plastic from the needle and inserted the hollow point into the glass bottle containing a yellowy fluid. Carefully watching the level markings, she filled the syringe with precisely the right amount of medicine, holding the instrument up to the light to make sure.

Finally, Kagome depressed the plunger slightly until some of the liquid emerged from the tip, forcing out any unnecessary air. With a final smile, she lowered the needle to Rin’s arm.

Without warning, competing flashes of red and white surrounded them. Kagome gasped as Sesshoumaru was suddenly looming over her, and in another second, Inuyasha was trying to force his way between them.

“Back off, asshole!” Inuyasha threatened his brother.

“What’s going on?” Kagome demanded, confused.

“Inuyasha.” Sesshoumaru moved quickly, and suddenly Inuyasha was crashing into the wall behind them.

Before the hanyou could react and attack again, Sesshoumaru turned his expressionless face to Kagome. “ Explain,” he demanded.

Then Kagome understood. ’He must have sensed that Rin was afraid.’ she realized. Looking calmer than she felt, Kagome held up the hypodermic needle for his inspection. “ It’s a vaccination… medicine. The needle is hollow, so I can inject the liquid straight into her blood, helping Rin get better, faster. Where I’m from, children receive inoculation shots all the time to prevent against common illnesses. Rin is already sick, but this should help her get well.”

Sesshoumaru stared in silence, searching Kagome’s eyes. She knew he could probably sense that she was nervous, but prayed he would be able to recognize the very human emotion for what it was… her hesitancy not to cause even minimal pain to her charge.

After a moment, Sesshoumaru spoke again. “Rin,” he said without looking at the girl. “You will allow Kagome to care for you as she sees fit.”

Rin nodded. All fear and nervousness disappeared from her eyes as she held out her arm once more.


“Okay then, just relax and I promise it’ll be quick.” Shoving aside her worries, Kagome took a cleansing breath and gently stuck the needle in Rin’s arm. The girl gasped slightly at the pinching sensation, but as the miko injected the vaccine into her patient, she took a quick look at the child’s face. Rin’s eyes were fixed firmly on Sesshoumaru and, for the first time since they’d arrived, the youkai lord returned her gaze steadily.

“All done!” Kagome announced cheerfully. Immediately, the stillness of the room was broken. Sesshoumaru returned to his post in the garden, Kaede continued sorting herbs in one corner, and Inuyasha sunk down to the floor against one wall, hoping to go unnoticed and therefore not be kicked out again.

Kagome dug through her regular medical supplies until she found a brightly colored band-aid, with a picture of a cartoon dog on it. It was all that remained of the box supply she had bought for Inuyasha because the dog on it reminded her of him. Of course, the hanyou had refused to touch them, but Shippou had begun asking to wear one whether he had a wound to protect or not.

Rin looked down at the image of the cute, white-furred puppy, and smiled broadly. Looking up at Kagome, her eyes sparkled with delight. The miko helped tuck her back in to bed before saying goodnight to Kaede and preparing to leave.

Inuyasha cleared his throat and looked at Kagome meaningfully. For a moment, she was confused as to what he was trying to tell her, but as his glance shifted from her to Kaede, she remembered.

“Kaede, I have something for you too.” Kagome began.

Kaede looked puzzled. “For me, child?” The old miko stepped closer, wiping her hands on a cloth to dry them.

Kagome pulled the envelope from her pocket, holding it out to the woman. “It’s from Jii-Chan.”

Inuyasha noticed that Kaede’s cheeks burned red as she received the letter, and he put a hand on Kagome’s shoulder to lead her outside. “Night, Baa-baa.”

Kagome glared at him. “Why are we going? Don’t you want to know what the letter said?”

Inuyasha chucked and nodded, “Yeah, but it’s between him and her. Besides, I’ve got a pretty good idea what it says already. Don’t you?”

Sighing, Kagome relented. “Yeah… but that’s why I wanted to know for sure!”

“We’ll find out soon enough.” Inuyasha said wisely.

“Since when did you become the patient one?” Kagome complained.


Inuyasha just chuckled.

******************

Kagome found herself on her hands and knees, once more emptying the contents of her stomach in a patch of weeds. Her morning sickness had been getting steadily worse over the course of a week. Although she felt fine a moment later, Kagome simply wiped the sweat from her face and sat upright against a boulder, waiting for the second bout of nausea to attack her.

“Are humans so weak that they must constantly humiliate themselves in such a manner?”

Kagome gasped at the broken silence, then blushed as she realized that Sesshoumaru was standing ten feet from her. He had not been there when she’d entered the forest at a rush no more then three minutes ago, yet now he stood there, still as a statue and facing away from her.

“I’m pregnant… it happens. Did you come to harass me?” Kagome mumbled, slightly irritated. It had been a full week since his sudden appearance at their doorstep, and he must have noticed how often she was afflicted with this particular side effect of her condition.

“I pity your pup. The unfortunate creature will not benefit from the knowledge of its heritage… with a human mother and an ill-bred hanyou for a father.” Sesshoumaru almost smiled as he sensed the outrage coming from the miko behind him.

“How dare you! Inuyasha was orphaned! It’s not his fault he doesn’t know as much as you do; you certainly weren’t there to help! And how Inuyasha and I raise our baby is none of your business!” Kagome sputtered furiously.

“There is much you do not know about youkai, Miko. How will you deal with those things you have not even begun to imagine?” Sesshoumaru watched her from the corner of his eye, gauging her every reaction.

“We’ll learn. I’ll learn. I’ll do anything I have to.” Kagome’s anger still burned brightly, and the inu youkai’s audacity only fed the flames. “What about you? What can you possibly know about raising a human?”

Sesshoumaru turned to face Kagome, studying her intently. “She has food, clothing, and shelter.”

Kagome knew she was treading on dangerous ground, but her temper goaded her into pressing forward. “Clothing? Rin’s been wearing the same dress since I first saw her! She’s clearly out-grown it. And I know that whenever you travel, she has to find her own food. Besides that, she’s eleven years old; she’s going to start changing and I can’t imagine you being the one to explain things to her. So whom does that leave – Jaken?

“And what about her feelings? What about lo-,” Kagome stopped herself before she could finish the thought. Instead, she amended, “Rin obviously… cares about you, and she’s able to show it, but if you’re not careful she’ll grow up to be as cold and emotionless as you are!”

Sesshoumaru continued to stare for a while after the woman had grown silent. He knew his response to her outburst, but he found himself enjoying the play of emotions that flitted across her face, and the longer he waited, the more pronounced they became. Annoyance still flushed her cheeks, but the wariness in her eyes indicated that she was concerned that she’d either hurt his feelings… or infuriated him.

It was the vitality of her life’s energy that reminded him of Rin. The fire within his brother’s mate burned more brightly than in any other human Sesshoumaru had ever encountered and, as the human child in his company grew older, the youkai had noticed a similar flame beginning to spark within her too. What made Kagome worthy of his mildest interest somehow intrigued Sesshoumaru when embodied in Rin, and this puzzled him.

Hiding his amusement at the miko’s rising discomfort, Sesshoumaru responded calmly. “You think you could do better?” he baited.

“I do,” Kagome asserted, somewhat confused. She couldn’t tell if he was angry or not, and it was unsettling.

Sesshoumaru nodded, “Then it’s settled. The new moon occurs in seven nights. I shall return in one lunar cycle thereafter.”

Kagome frowned, “Return? For what?”

“For Rin; you will train her.” Sesshoumaru started to leave.

“Wait!” Kagome wasn’t sure what had just happened. “Train her? In what?”

Sesshoumaru did not turn to face her. “You ask many questions for someone who had all the answers only moments ago. Rin must learn about herself - about being an adult human. I cannot teach her these things, nor do I have the patience. In addition to this, I expect you to train her as you have been trained.”

“As a Miko?” Kagome asked.

Sesshoumaru made a noise that sounded almost like a snort. “You are skilled with a bow and arrow, and there is a woman taijiya in your pack. If Rin is to remain in my company, she will need to learn certain methods of protecting herself. She is not my pup; This Sesshoumaru cannot teach her as such, nor does she have the ability to learn my methods.”

Sesshoumaru began to walk away, but stopped once more. “There is an herb at your feet called skullcap. The woman who bore your mate used to drink it as a tea to sooth her stomach when she was pregnant with him.”


Leaving Kagome to stare at him in confusion, Sesshoumaru went to find Rin and Jaken. His plan had worked beautifully, and the woman had played her role well. He did not allow his pleasure to show until he found Jaken feeding Ah-un near the old miko’s hut, and then… he smiled.

Jaken noticed and burst into tears, begging for his life.

***********************

“Okay... so, explain to me again what happened?” Inuyasha asked.

Kagome sighed and shook her head. “I can’t explain it. If I didn’t know better, I’d think he planned the whole thing.” After their conversation that morning, Sesshoumaru had immediately made arrangements for his departure from the village. With a few words of explanation to Rin, the inu youkai, Jaken and Ah-un had disappeared back into the woods, leaving the young girl standing in the road, silently waving goodbye.

Now, Rin sat in the yard with Kohaku, Shippou and Kirara, who were trying to engage the girl in one of the games they’d invented. The kids had returned from her world as soon as Rin was well enough to safely join them outside, but Sesshoumaru’s sudden departure had dampened her renewed spirits.

Kagome watched her worriedly, as she had been all morning. She wondered what Sesshoumaru had told her before taking off. Just as she decided to go talk to the girl, Kirara jumped into Rin’s lap and began licking her face. The child laughed and finally joined the fun, chasing the tiny nekomata with Kohaku and Shippou close behind.

“Maybe he did.” Inuyasha’s voice interrupted her thoughts.

Kagome looked at him, “Huh?”

Inuyasha looked serious, “Maybe he did plan it.”

“Why would he do that?” Kagome questioned him.

Inuyasha shrugged, “I’m not sure. It’s just that... Rin kinda reminds me of you.”

Kagome raised an eyebrow, “Should I be jealous?”

“Keh,” Inuyasha snorted. “Don’t be ridiculous. What I mean is that maybe Sesshoumaru has noticed the similarities between you two, and he wants Rin to be more like you.”

“More like me?” Kagome wrinkled her nose. “After all the times he’s tried to kill me, why would her want her to be like me?”

“He said you were strong, right? Nothing’s more important to that baka than strength. If we’re right about him and Rin, then he’d want her to be strong too.” Inuyasha suggested.

Kagome sighed, “Maybe.... I just can’t help feeling bad for Rin. He practically dumps her with us and...” she trailed off if frustration. “I don’t know much about her. I don’t even know how to begin training her.”

Inuyasha grinned, watching the children play. “Well, she’s not an ear puller, so she can’t be all bad... even if my brother likes her.”

“She’s not a...?” Kagome turned to her mate in surprise. “You let her touch your ears?”

Inuyasha nodded absently, “She asked.” Getting no response from Kagome, he looked at her. The expression on her face made him grin. “Don’t tell me your really jealous of a kid?” He teased, pulling her into his lap.

Kagome giggled, wriggling to get free, “I’m a kid too, compared to you,” she pointed out.

Inuyasha grunted, “You’re no kid... you’re Kagome.”

Touched by the simplicity of his statement, Kagome met his eyes, “Inuyasha....”

He didn’t let her finish as his lips met hers. Just as Inuyasha was about to pick Kagome up and carry her back inside, the sound of three children giggling reached his ears. He looked up just as Kohaku, Rin and Shippou disappeared around the side of the house with Kirara right behind. His scowl made Kagome giggle as well, and he leaned into her hand as she reached up to rub his ear.

“These are mine,” Kagome teased possessively.

Inuyasha’s eyes flicked to her neck, “That’s what the mark means.”

“So I don’t have to worry about cute eleven year olds with big brown eyes?” She asked with a mischievous grin.

Shaking his head, Inuyasha smiled. “The kids I knew when I was growing up would try and pull my ears off. I wanted to see what she would do. She was gentle... like you and my mother.” He looked into her eyes, “But your touch is the only one that makes me feel calm and excited, all at the same time.”

Kagome smiled, and quickly kissed his nose. “Thank-you. It means a lot to me when you talk about your childhood. I know it must be hard for you.”

Inuyasha looked away, “It used to be, but now I’ve got a future, so it doesn’t hurt as much anymore.” He placed his and protectively against her belly.

“That reminds me!” Kagome reached over to the small bag she had used to gather herbs earlier. “Sesshoumaru said that your mother used this plant for morning sickness when she was pregnant with you.”

Inuyasha eyed the herb, pulling one of the green stems to his nose. “I’d talk to Kaede about it first... Sesshoumaru may be acting weird, but he’s still a baka.”

Kagome laughed, “I talked to her already. She said that skullcap isn’t usually known for reducing nausea, but in this case, it might be different.”

“In this case?” Inuyasha repeated questioningly.

“Apparently, the nickname for Skullcap is ‘Dog Weed’.” Kagome replied.

*************************

Night had fallen, dinner had concluded, and Miroku decided to take one more walk through the village before settling in for the evening. The crickets hidden in the field sang to him, reminding the monk of his deep love for the earth. Not for the first time, he realized how lucky he was to be alive, and how much he wanted to appreciate every moment.

Traveling to Kagome’s world; being able to visit the future of his country, had proved to Miroku that all they’d lost had not been in vain. The history book he’d purchased with his miko friend’s help had given him further cause to rejoice. He now knew that Japan had grown into a strong and powerful nation in its own right, despite its size. The enormous demand for the country’s exports had ensured their financial security. The students were among the brightest and their culture thrived all over the world.

Miroku could help but feel a small measure of responsibility for the success of their nation. After all, were it not for the work they had done; or the work they would do in the future - Japan would have none. Of course, the future had its bad tales, as well as the good, but after all that he’d seen in his short life, the monk knew it could have been far worse.

Miroku took a moment to humble himself before the Kami, thanking them for allowing him to live to enjoy their blessings and creations. Sometimes it amazed him that a simple, parentless boy, raised to be a solitary monk with a vendetta, had been granted the one thing he’d never hoped to possess.

He’d never thought about eternal life, nor the blessing that his Kazaana had become to him in recent years. What Miroku had always longed for was a companion; an equal. In Sango, he’d found that. She was the first woman he’d met who was both strong and fragile. She wasn’t silly like most other women he’d met, and the passion with which she fought only served to make him want her all the more.

Sango was the long sought-after mother of his child. For the first time, Miroku’s life felt like his own, and having never had a thing to his name, he found himself determined to do whatever it took to preserve and protect his family - Inuyasha and all the others included. Now more than ever the monk could see what this existence meant to him, and he was only too glad to accept all that went along with it.

“Dammit!” Miroku hissed as a sharp pinching sensation occurred somewhere near his left ankle. Cursing mildly as he limped to sit on a nearby rock, the monk lifted the hem of his robe to examine the wound. Sure enough, just above the ankle were two puncture holes that appeared to be a snake bite.

“So much for protecting my family... I better start with me, first.” Miroku muttered with chagrin. Standing, he began the short trip back home, hoping that Kagome would be able to tell whether or not the serpent had been venomous.

***********************

As the houshi disappeared North through the field, a low, sibilant laughter rose from the ground, softly hissing in delight.

*****************************************************************************
Chapter Glossary:

1). Haha-ue - An ancient Japanese form of “mother”.

2). Obaa-chan - Japanese for ‘grandmother’.

3) Ettchi - Like hentai, it means perverted, but not as bad. More dirty than lecherous.

A/N: Almost all the characters in this story were brought to you through the genius of Rumiko Takahashi, and the letters E, R and S. I do not own the characters, they own me.

All right everyone... Sorry for the hideous delay! This weekend was the ‘Move From Hell.’ I spent seven hours helping two of the Three Stooges move me back in with my parents, who live fifteen minutes away from where I was before. Now, granted I own a lot of stuff, but I spent $822.25 on it! Grrrrrr. Then, I couldn’t find any of my stuff and I had trouble getting the computer set up.... Plus, my show opens in exactly one week, so I have rehearsal every night! It’s 1:06 AM now, and I just finished my final edit. Soon, my life will go back to normal!

Last night I saw the finished ‘battle scene’ that Diane has done... it looks fantastic! I can’t wait for you all to see it! The website is coming along, so hopefully that will be sometime soon!

Baby Name Update: I’ve chosen a girl’s name, but I’m still considering boys names. Any ideas? Send them to BrethlessM@aol.com. I’ve gotten some great suggestions already, but maybe there’s something fabulous out there still!

And Now For Something Completely Different: I’m taking a chance that those of you who actually read all this extra stuff will be entertained by my latest stress reducer. I’m calling it: The Brief, Yet Violent Tale of Revenge - In which Kimberlee’s Co-Worker Lu* Get’s What She Deserves. (* Name has been changed to protect the innocent... namely, me.)

So this evil bitch I work with is making my life miserable. I was plotting her demise on my way to rehearsal tonight, and this is the result. Enjoy!



Lu: I don’t like the way we’re doing this project. Even though Kim designed it and was following directions from her supervisor, I’m older and therefore, smarter and I know what’s best. Any good clerks would agree with me, so if she doesn’t conform I’m taking my toys and going home. Nyaaa

Kim: Can we discuss this when I’m back from lunch?

Lu: Oh, sure! Even though I’ve been here four months, I’m still new, and therefore, exceptions should be made for me. It’s all about me! Let me tell you an irritating joke, then laugh at myself like Fran Dresher on ‘The Nanny’. If we don’t do it my way, than I’m not doing it at all. This isn’t the way a unit runs.



Lu: Can I help you?

Sesshoumaru: You may die.

Lu: I won’t die here! It’s filthy from all the diseased indigents we talk to all day! This conversation is over.

Sesshoumaru: I think not.



Inuyasha: Didn’t your mother ever teach you that it’s rude to insult people?

Lu: Who are you? You have weird ears, get out of MY office.

Sesshoumaru: This human is more irritating than most. Shall we, brother?

Inuyasha: Oh, yeah... Bakuryuuha!

Lu: Run away!

Sesshoumaru: Resistance is futile.

Lu: Oh! I’m melting! Oh, what a world, what a world!



Kim: My hero’s!



Sesshoumaru: You are required to thank This Sesshoumaru properly.

Inuyasha: Wait in line, Baka!



THE END

Okay, enough of that. Thanks for your patience!

Sadly, I’m only going to do a general response to all of my lovely reviewer. It’s been a loooonnnggg day! You all have no idea how much your reviews mean to me. So many of you have been following since the first post, and I love hearing from you. Some of you have guess where I was going with certain things, and others were surprised, but either way, I’m still getting much love from you all. Please keep reviewing and I promise, I won’t be so generic next time!

Love you all!

Kimberlee