Striking A Deal

Inu Yasha sat in his favorite tree with Kikyo and he thanked all of the gods he could for his good fortune. Kikyo, on the other hand, was in a total panic. She knew that she could not continue the charade much longer before being found out. She had sensed that Inu Yasha's group was being followed, but had dismissed it once she found out that the presence she had felt belonged to Sesshomaru. She had thought that he was only curious as to why his half-brother's small group was on his lands, but now that Sesshomaru had Kagome, it all made sense. Sesshomaru had been stalking her reincarnation, and finally got what he desired. Now, she was in a difficult position. How could she tell Inu Yasha that she had lied to him and made him lose his precious shard detector to his worst enemy? Inu Yasha would have a fit, and worse, he could walk away from her. If it was one thing Inu Yasha hated, it was being made a fool. When he had told her that Kagome was in Sesshomaru's hands, she had gasped and asked how could he do that. Inu Yasha had been stunned. Didn't she hate her reincarnation? Now, she could not deny not liking the little copy, but hating her was something totally different. Kikyo took a good look around her and then looked at her mate.

"Inu Yasha, we need to talk." Kikyo said.

Inu Yasha looked down in his arms and hugged her close. "What is it, my love." He asked.

Kikyo sighed. "I have a confession to make. I believe that your giving Kagome away to your brother was a mistake, and you need to get her back." She said, choking on her words.

Inu Yasha sat in silence, then with much effort he asked, "And why would I want her back? I have you, and you are all I need."

"BecauseIliedandnowwearecluelessastowheretheshardsare." Kikyo said in one breath. For a woman who was dead, that one sentence took a lot out of her.

Inu Yasha stared at her as her hurried words began to sink in. The next sound that vibrated through the surrounding woods and village was a hanyou shrieking the word, "WHAT?!"
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Sesshomaru stared down at the young woman in his arms. He had done it, he had claimed the woman who had haunted his dreams for the last year. He knew that he had to tell her about the deal he made with his brother, but he was not worried. She had been betrayed one too many times to get upset about being taken away from his baka half-brother. He allowed a small smirk to cross his normally stoic features as he thought back to the previous night. Everything had happened just as he had planned. He looked down on Kagome when he felt her stir. She slowly opened her eyes and blinked. Sesshomaru bent his head and licked her mating mark. Kagome's body acted on pure instinct. She pushed her backside into his groin and moaned. Sesshomaru knew that his servants would not be up for another hour, and decided that he and his new mate had plenty of time to show each other appreciation before having to attend to the daily duties. His tongue darted out and ran along the shell of her ear, causing her to shutter. Kagome had finally awakened, and was aware of her new mate's arousal (mostly because it was pressing into her backside) so she twisted her body so that she lay on her back. She reached up and placed her hands on the sides of Sesshomaru's face. Pulling him down, she caught his lips with hers. Groaning, he felt her open her mouth to him and he took the opportunity to bring his tongue into her mouth, enticing her tongue to play with his. Kagome happily followed his lead, and soon they were locked in a heated battle for dominance. Of course, Sesshomaru never backed down from a challenge and proved to her exactly who was the boss in the relationship. Kagome sighed and felt him break away from the kiss. His fingers had crept down to her thighs and pried them open. He was delighted to feel that she was already damp with anticipation.

"You are ready for me already, my love." He said softly. Inwardly, he smirked. He had so much that he wanted to do to her young body, and now that he had claimed her, he had all of the time in the world. But first things first. He wanted to give new meaning to the term "˜Good Morning'.

Kagome didn't answer him, in fact, she barely heard him. She was too busy concentrating on what he was doing rather than what he was saying. He could have said that pink monkeys were flying by the window and she would not have cared. All she wanted was for him to give her the release that she so needed. She felt his fingers stroking her bud and she lifted her hips and ground herself against his hand. She no longer cared about being a lady, all she wanted was the sensations that she felt the night before. Sesshomaru sped up his motions, bringing her so close to the edge, and then he slowed down. He had to bite his lip from laughing at her groan of disappointment. He did this several times, and finally, she had shot him a look that promised death if he did not provide her with the promised relief. He pulled his fingers away from her, and used his hands to flip her over onto her stomach. Pulling her up to her hands and knees, he plunged deeply into her silky sheath, delighting in the tightness and heat that surrounded him. At first, he was gentle, but soon lost himself in the act of rutting. He grunted with each thrust, growled each time she screamed her pleasure, and finally released into her body, howling for all who had ears that the great taiyoukai of the west had been pleased beyond all expectations.

His howls finally died down, and he gently lowered both Kagome and himself to the bed, being careful not to crush her with his weight. He gently pulled himself from her body and gathered her into his arms. He could feel her chest heaving and whispered in her ear how much she had pleased him. For some reason, he had a feeling that she had not had many words of praise directed at her. He bent his head down and kissed her shoulder. He sensed that she had fallen back into the world of dreams, and he quietly got up. Dressing in his normal attire, he quietly slipped from the room. He told a handmaid that she was to stand by his bedchamber doors and wait until his new mate had awoken. She was to get her new lady dressed and ready for the day. After the handmaid left, Sesshomaru walked into his study. By now, the dead miko had probably told his pathtic half-brother that she had lied. He could not help but wonder how long it would take the half-breed to figure out that he had been tricked. He shook his head. Let the mutt come. He was more than ready for him. After reading some of the scrolls that lay across his desk, Sesshomaru stood up. It was nearly time for lunch, and he had not heard his mate come down from their chambers. Sesshomaru walked from his study and up the stairs. When he reached the top, he heard a loud commotion coming from his chambers. He sighed when he heard the voice of his retainer, and knew that he would most likely find the stupid toad yelling at his new mate.

Jaken was beyond furious. He had walked past the handmaid and into Lord Sesshomaru's bedchambers. He had figured that his lord had brought a girl to entertain his needs, and wanted to clean up the chamber before lunch. When he reached the bed, he found that wench of Inu Yasha's and all Jaken could see was red. How dare the bitch lay in his master's bed, dirtying it up with her human filth. He grabbed her arm, yanking her from the world of dreams and hauled her nude form onto the floor. The handmaid ran in, and threw a robe around the confused woman's shoulders. Jaken had backhanded the maid, telling her that no human with the exception of Rin deserved any kindness. He grabbed Kagome's chin and told her how he would see to it that she was whipped for her insolence against his lord. Just as Jaken reared his hand back to strike Kagome, he felt his body being lifted up and found himself face-to-face with a very angry youkai.

"Tell me, Jaken. Was it you who disturbed my mate's slumber?" Sesshomaru asked in a deadly quiet tone.

Jaken gulped upon hearing the word, mate. He glanced down at Kagome who was now being helped up by the handmaid. "My lord, please forgive this lowly Jaken. I did not realize that you had taken a mate. Especially a woman who belonged to your brother." Jaken squeaked.

Sesshomaru growled. "She never belonged to my half-brother. She belongs to me, and to me only. Now, tell me why I should not kill you for seeing what belongs to me in a state of undress."

Jaken's eyes widened. Now he was sure that he was going to meet his maker. He was about to say something, but Kagome spoke up.

"Please, let him go." She said. She was not going to allow someone, even Jaken, to get hurt on account of her.

Sesshomaru looked down on her, and with a growl he threw the poor toad on the ground. Sesshomaru approached Kagome and gently lifted her to her feet. He reached over and grabbed the robe from the handmaid's hands. Sliding the material across her shoulders, he looked at the handmaid and directed her to escort his mate to the hot springs. Bowing, the handmaid took her mistress by her shoulders and led her out of the chamber. With her out of the way, Sesshomaru leaned down and spoke quietly to Jaken.

"If you ever look upon my mate while she is undressed or raise your claw to strike at her, you will find out what if feels like to have my claws rip through your pathetic little body." He said.
Jaken nodded. All of a sudden, a small body rushed into the room and collided with Sesshomaru's legs.

"Rin found you, Sesshomaru-sama." Rin squealed.

Sesshomaru looked down and patted the child's head. For some reason, this little girl had melted his heart and caused him to know what it felt like to be loved unconditionally. Of course, there was only so much that a child could do, and it was for that reason that he had started to look at Kagome.

Rin looked from her lord to the small toad, who cowered in a corner. She giggled and pointed at Jaken.

"Can Jaken play with Rin now" Rin asked.

Sesshomaru got an idea. He looked down at his retainer, and told Jaken to go with Rin and play whatever game she desired. He knew that Rin would have the toad demon picking flowers or dress up in women's clothing. It was a suitable punishment, for now.
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Kagome had been led to the hot springs and was excited to see how big it was. She squealed with delight. It was huge and at the very back, a small waterfall sat, pouring water into the spring and causing a soothing sound. Even though she had questions about how she got to the palace, and how it was that she came to be in Sesshomaru's bed, she could not help but to think how nice it was going to be to take baths in this particular hot spring. Obviously, Kagome was a girl who had her priorities in order. The handmaid had expected some kind of reaction to this particular hot spring, but she could not help but smile at her mistress's excitement. This hot spring was Lord Sesshomaru's personal spring, and was only used by him and other taiyoukai who were visiting. Now that she was the lady of the west, this spring now belonged to her as well. She walked over to the young woman, and took off the robe. Grasping her lady's hand, she led the girl to the waters, and watched as Kagome sank into its depths. When Kagome had settled herself against the rocks that lined the hot spring, the handmaid began the task of washing Kagome's hair. She poured water onto the young mistress's head, and then reached for the soap that Lord Sesshomaru liked using on his hair. After working it into a rich lather, the handmaid began massaging Kagome's scalp, causing the young woman to relax and tilt her head back. When she was done, the handmaid gently rinsed away the soap and then left Kagome to soak in the relaxing warmth.

Sesshomaru had been walking by when he heard Kagome' squeal of delight. He raised his eyebrow, but kept walking, a smile threatening to form on his lips. How easy it was to impress his new mate. He went downstairs and was almost to his study when he heard someone banging on his front doors. He could hear loud cursing and instantly knew who it had to be.
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To say that he was furious was an understatement. When he found out that Kikyo lied, he had visions of snapping her neck. He had shouted a number of curses at her, and then told her to stay away from him. He ran into the village and told Miroku and Sango that he needed to go and get Kagome back from Sesshomaru. He left out the part about him giving Kagome away to his older brother, and the three of them left. Kikyo had followed, but stayed far enough back so that Inu Yasha could not smell her. Miroku and Sango could not understand what Sesshomaru wanted with Kagome. After all, he barely spared the young miko a glance whenever he and Inu Yasha would battle, but then it began to occur to Miroku that perhaps the reason why the great lord would never come near the miko was so that he would not endanger her. He thought back to the last battle when Inu Yasha had released the wind scar. Kagome had been in its path, and it was Sesshomaru who had swept her out of harm's way, and placed her near her friends. He then called for his cloud, and told his brother that they would continue their fight another day. Inu Yasha had never apologized for putting Kagome into harm's way, and she had never mentioned it, but Miroku had seen the look on Kagome's face when she was in Sesshomaru's arms. It was clear that the miko was taken with the dangerous demon. Could it be that the reason Sesshomaru now had her in his possession was that he desired Kagome? Miroku shook his head, and saw that the western palace had come into view. Inu Yasha had not stopped running until he was at the door, banging and screaming obscenities.

When the door opened, Inu Yasha found himself looking at Jaken, and he smirked.

"You look very pretty today, toad. Now where is that bastard brother of mine?" Inu Yasha growled.

Jaken narrowed his eyes. "Lord Sesshomaru did not send for you, filthy hanyou. You need to leave before I teach you the error of your ways."

Inu Yasha was about to grab the toad demon up, but was stopped when he saw his brother standing behind his retainer.

"Where is Kagome, you ass." Inu Yasha growled.

Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes. From the looks on his half-brother's friend's faces, he could almost bet that the mutt had failed to tell them about their deal. So, it was time to enlighten them.

"I do believe that you are in violation of our deal, little brother." Sesshomaru said in a calm voice.

"Deal? What deal? What is he talking about Inu Yasha?" Sango asked.

"Allow me, slayer. You see, Kagome belongs to me now. She is my mate, and I do not intend to return her, especially when my half-brother here told me that he would let me have her if I kept her away from him and his new mate." Sesshomaru replied.

Sango's mouth dropped. Miroku looked at Sesshomaru and then to Inu Yasha. Seeing the look upon the hanyou's face was enough for Miroku. He slowly approached the demon lord, and asked, "My lord. Would it be possible for an audience with your lovely mate? Sango and I are friends and we do not wish to disrupt your home, but we merely wish to see if our friend is well."
Sesshomaru had to hand it to the monk. He knew how to speak to nobility. Sesshomaru nodded, and told Jaken to take the monk and slayer to his study. When they were out of earshot, Sesshomaru turned to his brother.

"I don't see your mate, but I smell her. I see that she told you what I tried to warn you about. Perhaps the next time I tell you something, you will listen. But for now, leave my lands." Sesshomaru said.

Inu Yasha had reached his limits. "Damn you, it was not a fair deal. You knew that Kikyo was lying to me, and took advantage of it. Why?"

"Kagome. I desired her, and now have her. There is nothing more for us to discuss." Sesshomaru replied.

"I want her back, Sesshomaru. Give her to me now, or else." Inu Yasha threatened.

Sesshomaru raised his eyebrow, and then had his claws around his little brother's thoat. He gave a slight squeeze, and then said, "Don't presume to threaten me, half-breed. I will not hesitate to kill you."

He dropped his little brother to the ground, and stepped aside. "You may join your friends and tell Kagome farewell. You will not be seeing her after this, and only the monk and slayer will be permitted to visit with my mate." Sesshomaru said.

Inu Yasha picked himself up and brushed his clothing off. He saw Sesshomaru staring behind him, and slowly turned around. Kikyo stood behind Inu Yasha with a look of concern on her face.

"What are you doing here, wench?" Inu Yasha growled.

"I followed you to tell you that I am sorry." Kikyo said, glancing over at Sesshomaru. She saw the demon smirking and shuttered. His mouth was not suited for smiling.

"Feh. Take you apologies and leave. I will speak with you when I return to the village." Inu Yasha said.

Sesshomaru saw a chance to upset his younger brother, and decided to take it. He stepped forward and said, "Nonsense, mutt. Let your mate come and join us. I am sure that she would like to see you say your farewells to Kagome, and that way the two of you can continue on your shard hunt with no regrets."

Inu Yasha glared at him, but then stalked into the palace. Kikyo slowly followed behind him and gasped when Sesshomaru caught her arm. Sharp claws dug into her arm, and she looked up. Sesshomaru's eyes held nothing but malice.

"I am permitting you to stay, but if you cause my mate pain of any kind, I will relieve this world of your stench. Am I clear?" He growled. Kikyo nodded, and was released. He watched as she walked into his study, and then turned to go up the stairs. He needed to tell Kagome that she had visitors, and was stunned when he reached the top of the stairs. Coming right at him was the most lovely vision he had ever seen. Kagome was dressed in a deep red kimono that had black flowers stitched on the sleeves. The black obi and slippers complimented the outfit. Her hair was loose, and hung to her waist in ringlets. She was a goddess.

He walked over to her and smiled down at her. "Mate. Your friends are here to visit with you." He said.

He felt her stiffen. "Is Inu Yasha with them?" She asked.

Sesshomaru nodded. "Yes, he is here, and his undead mate is with him. Neither of them will harm you, I will make sure of that."

Kagome sighed. She did not want to face Inu Yasha. She saw that Sesshomaru had his hand out to her, and she took it with a shaking hand. He led her down to the study, and opened the door, revealing to Kagome Miroku and Sango.

Sango squealed when she saw the young miko and rushed to embrace her. Miroku followed and attempted to show the miko how much he missed her, but was stopped when he heard a low growl. Sesshomaru had seen the monk's hands traveling down towards Kagome backside, but after he growled, the slayer stepped up behind the monk and proceeded to hitting him over the head, effectively rendering him unconscious. Sango took Kagome's hand and helped her step over the sleeping Miroku. She led the miko to a couch, and sat her down. After giving her friend a critical look, Sango said, "You look beautiful, Kagome. Being the lady of the western lands suits you."

Kagome giggled. "Well, I suppose that I have Lord Sesshomaru to thank for that."

Kagome jumped when she felt two large hands on her shoulders. "You do not need to use my formal title, love. As my mate, you are entitled to use my name." Sesshomaru said.

Kagome sighed. There was so much that she was going to have to learn. She glanced over at Inu Yasha, who was glaring at Sesshomaru. Kagome leaned over and whispered to Sango, "What is wrong with Inu Yasha?"

Sango looked over at Sesshomaru. He gave a slight shake of his head, indicating that he had not told Kagome of the deal. So, Sango said the first thing that came to mind. "I am guessing that he and Kikyo have gotten into their very first argument." She said.

Kagome shrugged. Why should it matter to her? She looked around and asked, "Where is Shippo?"

Sesshomaru cocked his head. "Who is this Shippo? Is he an admirer?"

Kagome giggled. "No, nothing like that. I adopted Shippo, and consider him to be my son."

Sesshomaru nodded. He had once seen her hugging an orange ball of fur when he had been fighting the mutt, and could only guess that the fur ball was this Shippo.

Sango said, "Inu Yasha would not let us get him. The way he made it sound, Sesshomaru had kidnapped you."

Inu Yasha looked over at Sesshomaru. He then realized what Sango had realized. Sesshomaru had not told Kagome about their arrangement. So, he decided to enlighten the young miko.

"Well, can you blame me. After the deal we made, I found that he cheated me and came to reclaim Kagome. After all, the deal was one sided." Inu Yasha said.

Kagome looked at him strangely. She then turned to Sesshomaru and asked, "What deal? What is he talking about, Sesshomaru?"

Sesshomaru glared at his brother. "˜How do I kill thee? Let me count the ways"¦' he thought.

His gaze turned back to his mate's questioning face, and he sighed. This was not going to be pretty.