Where My Heart Lies

As Kagome reached the clearing, she took in a large breath of air. She loved the training, even though it was tiring at times. Kagome knew that most of the training was typical for one who would become a priestess, but she had made it clear that while she did want to learn more to do good with her powers, she would not become a part of that order. Kaede had accepted this, as she knew it the life of a priestess would not be for Kagome, and so had taught her things other than those used by a miko. Kaede had first taken her into training two years ago, after Kagome had become fairly skilled with the bow and arrow. Since then, they had trained every day she was in the Feudal Era, which was now almost every day, from early evening sometimes until late in the night. it was taxing, yet rewarding. She had become an expert shot with the bow and arrow, and with Kaede's help, learning more about her powers for healing and purification, and how to use them. Kagome was fascinated with her powers. It felt like she shouldn't have them, but now, there were things that came so easily. Like purifying a small bowl of acid, or healing the broken wing of a bird. With these powers, I can help InuYasha and the others if they're ever hurt in battle

Kagome saw a small stick lying in the center of the large sand circle she and Kaede used for training. Glancing around and seeing Kaede was not anywhere near, she focused on the stick. In her minds eye, she saw her power as a small beam of light. Narrowing it to a fine point, she concentrated harder. The stick quivered at first, then slowly, steadily lifted in the air. From there it was fairly easy. Allowing the feeling of her powers to wash over her, as Kaede had taught, Kagome brought the stick to her, letting it hover for a moment in front of her eyes, before dropping it into her hand.

Kaede did not yet know about this, and Kagome didn't know how to tell her. This wasn't just spiritual powers... this was magic. She wasn't sure if it was bad for humans to have this kind of magic, but her intentions were never malevolent. Behind her, she heard the rustling of leaves.

"Kaede! I was wondering when you would get here, what took you so long?"

"I had stopped to speak with your friends for a moment. Were ye deep in thought, child? Ye should have sensed me before ye heard me."

Kagmoe smiled, "It was nothing important, I should have kept my mind clear. 'Always on guard, always pay attention', right? Let's start training. You said last time you wanted me to try something new?"

Kaede nodded. Passing the young woman, she sat on one side of the circle and indicated for Kagome to sit on the opposite. Kagome knelt, fixing her white haori and pants, both with blue trim.This outfit she had chosen to wear only when training, Kaede had told her white light was the most benevolent, and Kagome felt the cleansing sense of the white fabric helped her concentrate.

"Ok Kagome, We will first begin with centering our thoughts..."

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InuYasha stood outside the hut, arms crossed and deep in thought. Why did he care about Kagome having these powers? It was good, now she could fight better and protect herself. But that's my job... The intrusive thought kept running through his head everytime he tried to think about it. What the hell was his problem?

"She will still want you around, y'know,"

InuYasha jumped slightly, "Shit, Miroku. I must be getting bad if you can sneak up on me."

"Hardly, you're just worried she won't need you. Admit it, you like saving her." The half-demon gave a start at the words, but held his tongue. Miroku continued, "There's nothing wrong with that, but your good for more than just weilding the Tetseiga and snatching her out of harms way. I'm sure you mean more to her than just a body guard with a big sword."

"Shut up, monk. You don't know what the hell you're talking about." The words were meant to be harsh, but InuYasha's tone barely convinced himself, much less his friend.

Laying a hand on his friends shoulder, Miroku decided to ignore InuYasha's request. "Go talk to her, I'm sure they're done training now."

InuYasha pushed away from the wall he had been leaning on and started to walk toward the forest, heading in the direction of the God tree. "I'm goin' for a walk." He stated. Just before he entered the forest, he turned on one heel, "And I'm NOT going looking for her, so screw off about it." Turning back, InuYasha continued into the forest.

As Miroku watched him leave, Sango poked her head out of the door of the hut. "He seemed really upset by what Kaede said.."

"Yup"

"He's going to talk to her, then"

"Well you know InuYasha. You know and I know he's gone looking for her, but you'd have to beat him within an inch of his life for him to even consider admitting it."

Down the path, InuYasha was pensive. If he happened to run into Kagome, then fine. But he was heading wherever his feet would take him. And he just couldn't understand why the hell Kagome's power was bothering him. Miroku was full of shit. He and Kagome were a team. She found and held the shards, he bet the bad guys and .... protected her. Damn it!!.

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Kagome stretched as she walked through the woods. It was getting dark by the time she and Kaede had finished. After changing into regular clothes, she had asked the elder to tell the others she had gone for walk to relax. As always, Kaede was happy to oblige.

Kagome considered her teachers words as she walked. So... I could use my power for defense too? That would be good, I wouldn't be left helpless without my bow and arrows if InuYasha needed me.." Kagome shivered slightly as a chilled breeze blew. Briskly rubbing her arms, Kagome wondered how much winter clothes she had brought this time. It was already late fall. She was wearing a black ribbed turtleneck, it was fitted, but warm. The dark green skirt that came just above her knees was flexible enough for her to move freely but also made of a warm material. Snow's gonna fall soon she thought, I'm going to have to pack the rest of my winter clothes to bring back with me the when i go home tomorrow.

Suddenly noticing she wasn't surrounded by trees, Kagome looked up. She was standing in front of the God tree. She smiled. This happened every time she went for a walk. No matter which direction she had pointed herself in, she always ended up here. Stepping up to the face of the giant tree, she laid a hand on the single bare spot where the bark had not grown. Here was where she first met the violent half-demon. He had been so angry, in so much pain. InuYasha... his name whispered in her mind. Things had changed since then, almost three years was a long time. She sighed and dropped her hand back to her side. Stepping down she sat on one of the raised branches, and gazed at the stars. She was eighteen now, but she was still unable to actually tell him. As soon as the thought crossed her mind, Kagome was saddened. It always comes down to Kikyo. I can't trust myself to risk that much when I can never tell if he's over her. I'll only get my heart broken. Kagome inhaled deeply and slowly exhaled. I can't do this forever.

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InuYasha continued walking through the woods and only looked up when he approached the clearing. In front of him was the God tree. This was happening more often then not whenever he walked. He ended up here. Two thoughts crossed his mind. This is where I was killed.. by Kikyo. As always, the memory created a look that marred the face of the hanyou. The second thought was fast coming and quickly smoothed his features again. It's where I met Kagome and she freed me.....

Heading towards the tree, he walked around to face the spot where he had been pinned for so long. He stopped upon seeing Kagome, her back to him. She was star-gazing. Quietly, he walked behind her and sat next to her. Kagome started.

"InuYasha! Hi. What are you doing out here?" she looked at him wondering.

"Wanted to go for a walk. You?" InuYasha's voice was quiet, Kagome knew there was something bothering him. It wasn't easy for him to express himself, but slowly through the past two years, he had opened up to her on occaision.

"Hm, yeah, me too. Training is hard, I find this a good way to relax after." Kagome paused. "InuYasha, is there something wrong?"

"Nothing.... do you like training?"

"Yeah! I mean, it's hard sometimes, but it's good to know I can do things to help. Kaede mentioned defenses today, but i'm only working on barriers right now."Nervously, she brushed her hair back, "I'm having a little trouble though, I was supposed to place a block in front of my face while she tossed pebbles. I was only able to block one. Hmph."

"So, I guess you'll be able to take care of yourself then pretty soon." InuYasha's words seemed tinged with something that sounded like.. disappointment.

Kagome was confused. "Well, no, not really. I mean, if I can master the defenses then I can fight back with something other than a bow and arrow... mostly right now it's healing and purification i've got down.. but..."

"So you won't be needing me around to protect you then." InuYasha had been looking at the ground, but looked quickly at Kagome.

There was no mistaking InuYasha's tone, or the guarded look in his eyes. He was definatly unhappy. Understanding finally opened to Kagome. InuYasha thought she wouldn't need him or want him around. He only saw himself as the brawn. Taking his hand in her own and drawing just a little closer, Kagome spoke softly, but with meaning.

"InuYasha, these new powers won't change anything," Swiftly she hugged him to her, laying her head on his shoulder. With a voice just above a whisper, she finished "I will always need you with me."

Taken aback, InuYasha didn't move for a second, then wrapped his arms around Kagome, one hand in her hair. This felt right. She felt right. Feelings he thought were long dead were stirring. Why couldn't he just say it. He knew that Kagome would never abandon him, but still...

Damnit, I'm doing it again Kagome released from the embrace.

"So..ah, I'm going to be heading home tomorrow for a day or two. Y'know, visit with Sota, pack up some winter
clothes to bring back. Stuff."

"Um yeah, I figured you were planning on going again soon. Don't forget we have jewels to find, so don't stay so damn long this time."

Immediatley, both embarassed by their actions, the two lapsed back to more comfortable conversation.

Kagome stood. "Well, we should be getting back to the hut, it's getting late, and I'm beat."

"Yeah, c'mon" InuYasha was ahead of her already. Watching his back as she followed, she wondered if there would ever be a time when she could actually tell him how she felt. If only she knew the thoughts of the man in front of her were not unlike her own.


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A/N: yay fluff. :-D lol. well hope you like it so far. I have up to chapter 16 written for this story, as it was being posted on another site, but I will only be posting on Wednesdays and Saturdays so I can get a head start on the other chapters (I have no idea how many chapters until this story ends.... just writing what comes into my head) Well ttfn and Comments and Constructive Criticism (sp?) appreciated. TY for taking the time to read the story!