Her Destiny

Chapter 21

Lord Inutaisho was again having problems with his mate. They both felt when their pups started fighting again. The power coming from the house was even more powerful than before and he was not about to let his mate get hurt.

This was why when an Inu Youkai took a mate and started the mating ritual they choose a place that was secluded. The females will always be protective of their pups, no matter how old they were. It was instincts that drove that desire, and since his lovely mate has claimed Kagome as her own, that desire was even stronger.

He gave in to his mates desire to have her pups close by. He knew that he will have a rough time but he took up the additional responsibility without a fuss. He wanted his mate to be happy even though he will have to subdue her every time she got the urge to go to her pups.

Inutaisho was currently in his room, as he was looking out the window. He was facing the forest where he knew the house was located. He could clearly see the power that was coming from that area as he heard the sound of swords clashing in the distance.

Soon the sound of clashing swords stopped, it became very quiet that not even the birds where singing in the sky. Then, after he waited with bated breath, he felt it. It was a calming aura that was coming from that area. To him it felt like both Sesshoumaru and Kagome combined their powers into one.

His thoughts were interrupted by a knock on his door as he turned and yelled, “Enter!”

A servant opened the door as he quickly made his way towards his lord and kneeled. He waited to be recognized by Lord Inutaisho before he gave him the message. The tension was so thick in the room that you could almost cut it with a knife as he heard his lord say, “Speak.”

The servant shook in fear as he said, “Milord, we have been informed that Sesshoumaru-sama has subdued the miko. She has fully submitted to him and they said that their auras were becoming one, milord.”

Inutaisho understood what was going on as he said, “You may leave.”

The servant was so happy that he quickly jumped up and left his lord to his thoughts. He was glad to be out of there in one piece. Their lord has been in a very foul mood ever since his eldest son decided to take a mate.

Inutaisho looked out the window as he smiled, ‘So Kagome has finally submitted to Sesshoumaru and has accepted him as her mate. Their aura combining like that indicates that she is falling in love with my son. Soon those two will be mated and everything will be as it should.’

Inutaisho turned as he looked at his mate. He could release her now that their pups have calmed down again. They will have to prepare a room for when those two came back home.

He just hoped that Sesshoumaru will stay with them. He has every right to leave and start his own pack now that he was an alpha. But he would prefer for his pup to stay and helped him rule over the lands.

Inutaisho sighed, he hated for his pups to grow up because they will leave him and his mate to start a new life somewhere else. He knew that they have a while to go before Inuyasha was mated but it still did not make things easier on them. He was wondering if he could convince his lovely mate to have another if Sesshoumaru and Kagome left the Western Lands to make their own home elsewhere.

Now there was an idea as he smiled and went to wake his mate.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru and Kagome were still sitting in the gardens. Kagome has not moved from her position on Sesshoumaru’s lap as he continued to rock her back and forth. His inner beast was at peace with himself because his chosen one submitted to him. But he knew that they have to finish their talk if they were to move on with each other.

Sesshoumaru inner beast slowly reseeded back and allowed his more rational side to take over once again.

When Sesshoumaru opened his eyes they were back to their normal color. He looked down at his mate and saw the contented look on her features. It pleased him immensely to see her like this. Her aura was at peace for once and not saddened in any way.

He nuzzled the top of her head as he breathed in her delicious scent. It relaxed him so he could continue with what they were discussing. He raised his head as he called, “Kagome?”

Kagome was enjoying the feeling of peace she was getting just being in Sesshoumaru’s arms. It was a feeling that she thought she will never have in her life. To feel at peace with herself and finally belonging somewhere that she could call home. She could live out her days like this and die a peaceful death.

Kagome was brought out of her musing when she heard Sesshoumaru calling to her. She raised her head just a little so she could look at him.

Once Sesshoumaru saw that he had Kagome’s attention he said, “Kagome we must continue with our talk if we are to move on with our lives together. I want to answer any questions that you may have and tell you some things that will keep you safe and not cause my inner Inu to punish… you if you were to act in a way that was defiant to him.”

At the word ‘punish’ the fear in Kagome increased to an alarming level. She never wanted to be punished for anything. The beating she received when she was younger was enough to last her for a lifetime, and now that Sesshoumaru mentioned that word it struck the fear in Kami in her. She stilled in his arms, her fingers tightened around his chest, as she waited to see what he had to say. Her breathing was becoming more labored the longer she waited.

Sesshoumaru noticed right away that his mate scent had changed once he mentioned the word ‘punish.’ Her scent was laced with such fear that it was over powering his senses. He had to find out what her fear was and make her understand that he will never hurt her in anyway.

Sesshoumaru took a deep breath as he continued with what they were discussing earlier before they got into their little battle. “As you remember, I said that once you revealed your powers, I thought that you would make a worthy mate. Inu youkai naturally look for a strong female that is of equal or slightly lesser power. It is our nature to seek this even if we are not doing it consciously.

“You are a powerful female, Kagome, but that was not the only thing I was looking for in a mate. Being strong brought you to my attention but I wanted more. I wanted a female that I can live with for the rest of my life. I wanted a female that I can have a bond with like my father has with my mother. I want to love her unconditionally and have that love returned to me.

“At first I just brushed you off, not wanting to be mated to a ningen, but then I started seeing that you were different. I started to see your other qualities as I observed you from afar.

“The first time you help Tai-li in the library to get it organized was the first time that I noticed that you were different. You’re a natural born leader that can take charge of a situation and perform admirably. When I saw your plans for the library I couldn’t wait to see the final outcome once it was rearranged.

“When you came down to dinner that night, I couldn’t take my eyes off you. Your beauty is beyond compare, because no one can match it and you were actually glowing with pride and innocence. I started to follow you after that and I saw a ningen onna that always gave of herself and never asked for anything in return.

“I saw your intelligence even before you told us where you came from. Your intelligence even surpassed my own and I wanted to see more.

“The way you taught the runts of the castle was impressive. You showed them that they can still fight even if they are weak and still win. It showed me that you will be a wonderful mother to our pups and teach them to be strong. But I finally realized my feelings for you when that kuro miko attacked you.

“When you disappeared after your battle with her I thought that I would go mad. I couldn’t stand the thought that someone had taken you away from me and I went after you. If it had not been for my father, who stopped me prior to getting to the slayer village, I would have destroyed it to find you.

“When I almost lost you in Midoriko’s cave because you were running blindly away from me, I resigned myself to die with you if I couldn’t prevent your death. But I caught you before you fell into the bottomless pit.”

At this statement Kagome was snapped out of her fear as she looked up and asked, “I almost fell into a bottomless pit? Why was I running?”

Sesshoumaru looked at his mate as he said, “Do you not remember what happened at the cave?”

Kagome thought for a few minutes and then said, “I remember waking up there and having a long conversation with Midoriko. Then I remember leaving her to go and see Sango but I don’t remember anything after that.”

Sesshoumaru thought for a few minutes as he decided to explain what happened in the cave. He explained how he caught her before she fell into the pit.

Kagome closed her eyes as she tried to remember that day. It was difficult but she started to remember what it was she saw that frightened her, seeing the youkai from her childhood nightmare appear right in front of her put the fear of Kami in her.

The fear she felt that day started to take over as she relived that moment in time. She felt the tightening of arms around her as she was shivering and breathing hard. Then she whispered, “You told me that you will always protect me. I remember that now. I sometimes tend to block out events that are hurtful to me so I don’t have to relive them constantly. I remember that I felt safe for the first time in my life and fell asleep in your arms.”

Sesshoumaru held her tighter in his arms as his warmth wrapped around her. He then continued with what he was saying to her, “It was in that cave that I finally realized how much I actually loved you. I never want to let go of you Kagome, no matter what, you belong to me for all eternity, and I will wait for the day when you will return that affection.”

Kagome relaxed even more into his arms as he was holding her. She suddenly felt that she was being picked up off the ground as she saw Sesshoumaru heading back inside. She looked up and saw that it was almost midday and she was getting a little hungry.

Sesshoumaru knew that he had to get Kagome something to eat. It was almost time for the midday meal and she required food to get stronger. He walked back to their shared room as he put her back on the bed and looked at her. He leaned in for a kiss as he captured her lips and was just enjoying her presence.

Then all too soon he felt when the servants came and left their meal at the door. He let a feral growl escape his lips as he starred at the door. He hated to be interrupted as he felt movement. He saw Kagome getting up from the bed as she was heading toward the door. His eyes turned red with anger and he went after her, thinking that she was trying to leave him.

He grabbed Kagome by the neck and threw her back on the bed and pinned her there. He barred his fangs as he growled menacingly at her.

Kagome didn’t know what she did wrong. She was just going to get the food that she knew was outside the door. She wanted to feed Sesshoumaru this time and have some more time alone with him. In a blink of an eye she found herself on her back on the futon as she saw a very angry Sesshoumaru barring his fangs at her.

She still immediately, not fighting him in any way. She could tell by this eyes that his inner Inu was in control and she didn’t want to be hurt by him.

Sesshoumaru yipped, growled, and barked at Kagome as he said, “Bitch stay where I put you! Leave our futon again and you will be punished!” Kagome nodded her head in agreement not saying a word. She was shaking in fear as he got off her and headed toward the door.

Kagome curled on the futon in a fetal position and started to cry. She didn’t know what she did to make him so mad. It was like reliving the pain she went through with her real father.

Sesshoumaru was not happy about his bitch trying to leave the safety of their shared futon. She was still vulnerable to any male and he still had to teach her how to behave correctly around him. He opened the door and got the food. Once he had the tray in his hands he turned and shut the door as he headed back to their futon.

As he approached his mate he picked up the scent of her tears and became alarmed. She was crying and he didn’t know why. He put the tray down as he kneeled on the futon and touched her shoulder to make her look at him.

Her reaction was not what he was expecting as she yelled, “I didn’t move Sesshoumaru! Please don’t punish me!”

He saw the fear that was in her eyes as she moved away from him. He picked her up in his arms as he sat with her on the futon. He started to purr softly as he calmed his mate. Once she was calmed he said, “Kagome, I will never physically hurt you. Punishment for an Inu Youkai mate is never physical. It’s more of a dominant phase that we will put you through. Meaning I will feed you, clothe you, keep you at my side until you know your place and accept me as your alpha, but never hurt you. I can never hurt you.”

Kagome relaxed in his arms as she continued to hiccup as her tears stopped.

Sesshoumaru continued to hold her as he rubbed her back to soothe her frail nerves. Once she was calmed he asked, “Kagome who has punished you so severely that it will cause a reaction like this. I want you to tell me so I can understand.”

Kagome sighed she knew that she will never be able to get away with not telling him. She understood that he has the right to know about what happened in her life. Slowly at first and then with more confidence she told him about her father and what he did.

By the time she was done tears were coming from her eyes again as she was being rocked in his lap.

Sesshoumaru could only fume at what her biological father did to his lovely mate. He has scarred her for life and he will have to be careful with the way he treats her from now on. His inner Inu was not happy but he could do nothing to stop her fears at the present moment. It will take time for her to get used to them and not react so violently when he corrects her.

Sesshoumaru reached over and uncovered the food as he brought it to Kagome mouth. She didn’t fight him this time as she allowed him to feed her. When she was full she laid her head on his shoulder and fell asleep. She had too much excitement for one morning and needed to regain her energy.

Sesshoumaru watched as his mate fell asleep in his arms. He ate the remaining food that was left and when he was done he placed Kagome back on the futon, making sure that he didn’t wake her in the process.

He then took the tray back out into the hallway as he placed it back on table. He returned to Kagome side and laid next to her, as he held her in his arms. He felt her small body relax against him as he fell asleep once more with his mate.

---oOo---

Ayashiko was happy with her mate at the moment. She remembered when her pups started fighting again and she could feel Kagome calling to her for help. She was feeling weak and didn’t think that she could handle Sesshoumaru.

Ayashiko tried to leave to go to her pup but her mate thought differently. It was the second time that he had to subdue her. She understood his reasons for not letting her leave, but it didn’t mean she had to like it. She wanted to check on her pups but he told her that she still couldn’t go to their location.

Ayashiko remembered back to her mating and now she knew what she put her own mother through. It was never easy for a mother to let go of her pups. It was an instinct that will always be there to protect them. She knew that they will be back but it was just difficult not having them around the castle. She missed both her pups and she didn’t know what to do.

Ayashiko was currently in a sitting room as she was looking out the window. Her mind was traveling back to her pups as she felt the contentment they had with each other. She knew that Kagome was slowly accepting her son as her mate and soon they will be mated. She couldn’t wait for that day, because then they will be back home where they belonged.

Sango watched the lady of the castle as she sat on a big over stuffed pillow deep in thought. She was sent there by the lord of the castle to see if she could distract her and keep her busy.

Sango understood that losing your children, because they were full grown, was a hard thing to accept. You are so used to having them around that you don’t expect them to leave your home. Then one day you realize that you can’t stop that process and you are left with an empty feeling in your heart. You know that they will be all right because you taught them well, but there is a part of you that never wants to let go of what is yours.

Sango took a deep breath as she entered the room. She approached Lady Ayashiko as she said, “Milady, is there anything that I can help you with today?”

Ayashiko looked up at Sango with dull eyes. She couldn’t think of anything she needed to do today so she said, “No Sango, there is nothing I need help with today.”

Sango sighed this was going to be a lot harder than she thought, “Oh, I thought that you might need help in getting Kagome and Sesshoumaru’s bedchambers ready for their return.”

Now that was something that caught Ayashiko’s interest as she said, “You know Sango you do have a point. We need to give them a proper room that they will feel comfortable in. Come with me and we shall select a room, then we can start fixing it up for the both of them.”

Sango was happy, she has gotten Ayashiko to think about something else other than her pups, as she followed her out of the room. They went upstairs as they looked for a room that would be suitable for Kagome and Sesshoumaru.

Ayashiko still wanted to keep her pups close to her but still give them privacy. The west wing of the castle was a large section. Her mate built it big enough to have a large family. But she didn’t like going through childbirth and was reluctant to give him any more pups.

They were going from room to room searching for the right space for Kagome and Sesshoumaru. Every room they entered was either too small or not right for what Ayashiko wanted for her pups.

She was getting discouraged because they were approaching the end of the wing and still have not found the right room for them. If they couldn’t find one in the west wing then they will have to search the castle to find something more suitable and this did not sit well with Ayashiko.

They were both on the last room of the wing as they walked into the room. It was further down the hallway from Ayashiko’s room but still in the same wing. She knew that they will be safe in the west wing, but they could also have their privacy in their intimacy being away from her.

The room was very large its wall was painted a dark blue. The futon was one of the biggest they had in the castle, almost matching the one in Ayashiko’s room. There was a sitting area on the left side of the room. It had two big pillows that sat in front of the fireplace with a low table between them.

There were bookshelves surrounding the fireplace with plenty of books for Kagome to read. There were two low tables next to the futon and a desk with a mirror on the other side of it. To the right of the room there was a pair of matching clothes boxes.

Ayashiko thought about this room for a while and said, “Sango, I think this room will do for Sesshoumaru and Kagome. It’s big enough and it’s a little bit away from the rest of us so they can still have their privacy. But I don’t like the color of this room though, it’s too dark. We will need to make it brighter and homier. Now if the bathing chambers are big enough then I think this room will do.”

Sango understood what Lady Ayashiko was saying. This room was by far, the biggest room that they have seen. Most of the rooms in this wing were just too small. But this one was big enough for Kagome and Sesshoumaru. They walked off to the right as they entered what they suspected was the bathing chambers.

The bathing chamber was also large, with a large hot spring in the far corner of the room. It has a large wash area to clean yourself before entering the hot springs to relax. This room also has a large tub that you can fill and just relax in. There were large pillows scattered around the area. Jars of perfume and soaps were sitting in a cabinet next to the hot springs and the wash area.

Ayashiko looked satisfied as she said, “Yes, I think this room will do nicely. Now we have to get busy. We don’t have much time and I want to change the color for these rooms. They are too dark and need something a little more soothing and brighter.

Sango agreed with her lady as they started to plan out the room. They decided on earth tone colors because Kagome loved the colors of the outdoors. She was more relaxed when she was outside so Ayashiko wanted to bring that indoors.

Ayashiko ordered that the chambers be painted in a pale shade of brown, with slightly darker green to accent the trim of the room. She ordered the sheets and blankets in beige and white silks, as the futon was dressed to look like the autumn days outside. They put different color pillows on the futon to give it a little color.

One of the servants had a suggestion that was a marvelous idea. They quickly got to work and when they were done it looked amazing. In one corner of the room they painted a sakura tree. Its long branches extended to the middle of two walls. They added the flowers of the trees as they made some of the petals fall towards the ground.

The painting on the wall was breath taking. Once they were done with the room it looked like the outdoors and it had a soothing feeling to it. Now all they needed were some pictures to put on the walls and the room would be finished.

They went to Kagome’s room to move her things into her new room. But as they were moving Kagome’s things out of her room, Ayashiko noticed something. It was hidden behind the clothe box as she walked closer to it so she could see what it was.

Sango noticed what her lady was doing. She moved closer to see what had caught her ladies interest.

Ayashiko reached behind the clothes box as she pulled out several large canvases. She didn’t see anything on them at first but when she turned them around she was shocked. She held in her hands the most beautiful paintings she has ever seen.

There were paintings of the castle as seen from high above. There were pictures of the surrounding forest in the area. But the one that caught her attention the most was the family portrait.

In the painting Ayashiko was seated on something that made her look like she was sitting off the ground, as her mate was standing behind her with his hands on her shoulder. Her youngest was to her left with a big smile on his handsome little face. When she looked at her eldest son she was shocked. Never has anyone ever captured his smile. He was standing there with a big smile on his face looking very happy.

Ayashiko turned to Sango and asked, “Sango, did you know that Kagome could paint?”

Sango was just as shocked as Ayashiko as she said, “No milady, I never knew that Kagome could paint. I knew she spent a lot of time here in her room but I had no idea that she was painting. These are gorgeous.”

Ayashiko had to agree with Sango. She didn’t know that her pup was so talented. But she did remember that her pup said that she was gifted in many areas and she didn’t doubt that this was one of them.

Ayashiko grabbed the paintings as she walked out of the room with Sango following closely behind her. She went back to the room they were preparing for Kagome and Sesshoumaru. When she entered the room she put the paintings down on the bed and started to sort them out.

She picked several beautiful pieces and decided that these were the ones that will hang in the chambers. It made it very special to have something of Kagome’s added to the décor.

But Ayashiko was not done yet. She grabbed the family portrait that Kagome painted as she summoned the painter for the castle. Ayashiko then gave the task of having the paintings mounted and framed to Sango. She trusted her judgment on what looked good as she walked out of the room and went to the study to await the castle painter.

When he arrived Ayashiko had the painting on the desk as he walked closer to it. The painter was a kitsune youkai and when he saw the painting its beauty blew him away.

He felt a little hurt that the lady of the castle has gone to someone else to have a painting done of her family. He looked at his lady and asked, “Milady, who was the person that painted this portrait? It’s beautiful.”

Ayashiko smiled as she proudly said, “It was my pup who painted this portrait. She has captured all of us very well but there is something missing from this portrait. I want to know if you can add her to the portrait and still keep it in the same design as this one?”

The kitsune thought for a few minutes as he studied the portrait more intently. After a few minutes of silence he stood straight as he said, “I’m sure that I can duplicate her style of painting. But it will take me some time to figure out how she did this. But I’m positive that I can do it milady.”

Ayashiko smiled as she said, “Good, I want you to take the painting and add my pup to it. But heed my warning, destroy this portrait and you will feel my wrath. I want it to be perfect because it will go in the grand entrance for all to see. She is the first one to ever capture my son’s smile and I don’t want to ask her to paint another one, is that understood?”

The kitsune understood perfectly, as he took the painting and left. He didn’t have much time to get it finished. It was an honor to add his touch to this wonderful piece and he will do it right. He hurried down the hallway to get to his task. He was excited about what he was going to do.

He has spoken to the young miko only a few times. But the time spent with her he cherished. He also wanted her as a mate but knew he was not strong enough to subdue her.

She had so many questions when they were introduced. She wanted to know the type of paints he used and his techniques. She wanted to know where to buy paints or how to make them, what brush to use and so forth. He answered all of her questions to satisfy her curiosity. He never knew that she was going to take that knowledge and created this wonderful masterpiece.

No one has been able to capture all of the Lords family so perfectly, and to see the heir with a smile that has never been seen was amazing. Their eyes looked so real that it was almost impossible to believe that they were painted like that.

He finally got to his workspace as he put the canvas on a stand and looked at it for a few minutes. He had an idea as he turned and started to look around the room. He had several painting of the miko in his shop, all of them a tribute to her beauty as he continued to look for one painting in particular.

He finally found what he was looking for as he pulled it out and put it on another stand. He stood back as he looked at the portrait. He had captured her in just the right angle to paint her on the main piece he was given. But first he had to find out how she painted her paintings.

He remembered that he given her several special brushes made from his hair. She said that she was used to painting in this manner and wanted to find some more. When he told her that he has never seen what she was talking about he saw the sadness that reached her eyes.

He quickly asked her if she could draw him a picture of what they looked like and he would try his best to find them for her. She smiled one of the prettiest smiles he has ever seen as she drew the pictures he wanted. She thanked him for helping her locate what she needed as he simply said that it would be a pleasure to help her and he meant it.

He quickly got to work as he made her the brushes she requested. He used his own fur to make them since his hair was of different textures that were required for these brushes. He was certain that he still had the picture that she drew somewhere in his room as he looked for them.

When he finally found the pictures she drew he quickly started making a set for himself, it took him about an hour to do so. Then he got the different color paints out and tried to mix and match them to her skin tone. He finally got what he wanted as he moved over to a blank canvas and started to use the paints and brushes.

At first he could not duplicate her brush strokes. He had to go and look at her portrait to see what her work looked like, and then try to mimic what she did. It took many hours of trial and error when he finally figured out what she did.

Once he figured out how she painted her painting he started on another one of her. He continued well into the night, when finally he finished with the portrait he started. He moved it over to the one she painted as he looked from one painting to the other. He mimicked her brush strokes so perfectly that you couldn’t tell that they were not identical.

The one that he painted was of the beautiful young miko and Sesshoumaru. He was standing behind her, pulled into his chest, as his arms were wrapped around her waist. The beautiful miko had her hands over his as he captured the twinkle in her eyes and the smile that he remembered she given him. It was the best portrait he has ever painted and he was happy with it.

He continued to work through the night, as he was inspired to paint. He never had this kind of inspiration in his life and it was just flowing out of him. He could barely contain his excitement as he continued with his task. He was sure that the Lady of the castle was going to be happy with the portrait once he was done with it.

---oOo---

Kagome was slowly waking from her nap. She felt refreshed as she tried to stretch her tired body but found that she was being restrained. She opened her eyes and noticed that Sesshoumaru had her in a death grip as she relaxed again into his hold. It will not due to get his inner Inu angry with her for just wanting to stretch her tired muscles.

She looked up and saw the peaceful look that Sesshoumaru had on his handsome face. His features were softer now than they were before. It looked like the mask he always wore on his face was gone and for the first time she was actually seeing the real Sesshoumaru.

She reached up as she touched his ear. They fascinated her; they were pointy and very silky to the touch. When she moved her finger behind his ear, to gently tuck away a stray strand of hair, she heard a gentle purr like growl come from him.

Her eyes widened at the sudden discovery of such a sensitive area. Gently, making sure she didn’t wake him from his slumber, she caressed that area. She felt him relax as she did this and his growls continued. She smiled at this, who would have thought that Sesshoumaru liked to be scratched behind the ear.

Kagome felt his hold on her slacken as she continued to give his ear attention. She decided that if she wanted to get out of his arms this will be the best time for her to do it since he was so relaxed.

She moved back and felt no tightening of limbs as she continued to extract herself. She lifted his arm gently, just enough so she could slip out. She quickly reached over and grabbed a pillow and placed it in her place. When she stopped her attention on his ear his arms tightened up again as he pulled the pillow with her scent on it closer to his body.

Kagome sighed she was now free to move around the room. She slowly got up as she tested her legs to make sure that they would support her weight. Her strength has returned as she slowly stood and stretched her tired body. She was sore, really sore from all the battles she has fought with Sesshoumaru.

Kagome knew that she could not leave Sesshoumaru’s side because that would cause him to awaken and his beast to get angry. She has to find a way to let his beast know that she was not going anywhere. She has accepted them as her mate now.

Mate, that word has a special meaning for her. She got up as she walked over to the window to look out into the gardens. They were beautiful and soon they will go dormant. Winter was fast approaching and the wind was blowing wildly outside. The leaves from the trees were falling as it shed its greenery and went dormant for the winter.

The warmth of the sun hit her face as she thought about what has happened in her life. She never thought that she could find a place where she belonged, a place where she would be accepted for who she was, let alone find someone who could actually love her.

All her life she has been shunned, abused, and tested like a common lab rat. She had to endure a lot of pain before she finally found this place. Maybe the fates were correct in sending her back to this era. Maybe they were correcting the great injustice that was done to her. All she knew for sure was that she was having greater feelings for Sesshoumaru as time passed.

She could not believe how affectionate Sesshoumaru actually was. She wondered if this was all an act to get her to submit to him or if this was his true behavior in actually finding a mate that he wanted to be with.

But everything that she has read so far has told her that this was his true nature. Inu Youkai may act indifferently to the females when around other males but it did not mean that they loved the females any less. They have to project a strong image around other males that wanted to take what was theirs.

Kagome sighed as she leaned her body against the windowsill and thought about other things. She wondered what her life will be like from now on. If he will continue to love her, the way her heart wanted, as it was beginning to open up to him. She was taking a big risk by letting him into her heart. She just hoped that he will not hurt her in the process.

Kagome imagined her life and the children she will have. Oh yes she wanted children just like anyone else. She wanted a big family and she was hoping that Sesshoumaru felt the same way about it as she did. That will be a question to ask him when he woke up. The idea that she was thinking about silver haired kids running around the area meant that she was falling deeply in love with Sesshoumaru.

She continued to stand by the window as she enjoyed the sun and thought about all the children they were going to have. She just hoped that she lived long enough to see them all grown. She knew that she will never live as long as Sesshoumaru and that caused her great pain.

She didn’t want to leave him no matter what. But was it fair for him to mate her when her life span was so short. They will only have a few short decades together before her passing. She will grow old and gray while he stayed young and handsome. At this thought a lone tear escaped her eye, as she wrapped her arms around her stomach.

‘How can I ask him to give up his life for me? Inu Youkai mate for life so if I died what will happen to him? Will he live out the rest of his life in a lonely existence? Or will he be able to find another and learn to live again? What am I going to do? I can’t have him live the rest of his life alone. Kami, why do these things happen to me? I finally find someone that I want to be with and we will be together for just a short time. I don’t want to hurt him but will he be willing to let me go?’ Kagome continued to think about all of this as her sadness grew in great proportions. The tears continued to flow out of her eyes and she was having doubts that she was making the right decision.

She stood by the window as she cried. She cried for him, not for herself, she wanted him to be truly happy in his mated life.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru’s nose twitched. He was picking up the scent of salt water and he thought that his mate was crying. He brought his arms towards his chest thinking that Kagome was still in his arms.

When he didn’t feel any firmness in what he was holding, he opened his eyes to see that he was holding a pillow close to his chest. He quickly sat up in bed scanning the room.

The scent of sadness and salt water, heavily assaulted his senses. He looked toward the window where the scent was the most powerful and spotted his mate leaning against the window frame. Her back was to him but he knew that she was crying.

Sesshoumaru got out of bed as he made his way towards her. He encircled his arms around her waist and pulled her into his embrace. He started to purr as he asked, “Kagome, why are you crying?”

Kagome, having felt that Sesshoumaru was now awake, with his arms wrapped around her waist, quickly turned and held him tight against her chest. Sesshoumaru was at a loss for words. His mate was upset and he has no idea why she was like this. He continued to purr as he rubbed her back in a soothing motion to calm her.

Soon Kagome’s cries turned into hiccups as she slowly stopped. She tried to pull away from him but he held her even tighter than before. He didn’t want her to leave his embrace. He loved holding her and it felt good to have her near him like this.

When he thought that she was calm enough he asked again, “Kagome, why are you crying? What happened to upset you so much?”

Kagome didn’t know how to tell him what she was thinking. She was still upset over it as she turned away from him in his grasp and said, “Sesshoumaru, you do realize that I am ningen, and being ningen means that my life is shorter than yours.

“I know that youkais live for a long time and I will never live that long. I will die of old age while you stay as handsome as you are now. I couldn’t bare the thought of putting you though all of this. I want you to be happy with someone that will live as long as you so you will never have to be alone in this world.”

Sesshoumaru froze, she called him handsome as he listened to the rest of what was upsetting her so. He smiled as he moved behind her and held her. He nuzzled her neck as he started to lick the area where his mark was currently located. It relaxed her as he said in her ear, “Koiishi, when we mate your life will be connected to mine. You will live as long as I do and I can tell you that I have no plans in dying anytime soon.”

Kagome was shocked to hear this. ‘My life will be extended to match his? I will live as long as he will? But how? I’m a ningen.’ She turned to him as she whispered, “How is that possible? I’m just a ningen, how can I possibly live as long as you?”

Sesshoumaru moved closer and captured her lips in a heated kiss. She responded back to him as she wrapped her arms around his neck to deepen it. They stood there and kissed for a long time until they had to break apart for lack of air. Their eyes were glazed over with the passion and love they held for each other.

Sesshoumaru continued to look into Kagome’s eyes. He knew that soon they will be able to mate. The full moon will be the following night and he was positive that she was having feeling for him. Kagome might even love him, if she was upset about her dying and leaving him alone for all eternity.

He licked her cheek as he said, “Kagome, not every ningen can mate with a youkai. It takes a ningen with great powers to mate with a full youkai. The reason that your life will be linked to mine is because during our mating you will take some of my blood, once our souls are connected you will live as long as I do, but our mating must be pure. Your love for me and my love for you must shine through for us to have a life bond. I will wait for all eternity for you to come to terms with your feelings for me.

“But that’s not all that will happen. You will stop aging when we mate. You will never grow old and I can enjoy you for the rest of our lives together and even in death. You are mine and I will have no other. You belong to me in mind,” he kissed her forehead as he continued, “Body,” he kissed her neck as he heard a sweet mewl coming from her lips. “And soul,” he looked deep into her eyes and knew that she felt the connection between them. They already have a soul connection. When she finally accepted him as her mate their aura’s mixed together as one.

Kagome stared into Sesshoumaru’s eyes as she saw the truth behind his words. They were connected now. The moment she submitted to him, he became a big part of her life. Her fears have been assuaged for the moment as she hugged him. Glad that when they mated she could stay with him forever.

Then Kagome felt something tickling her leg as she jump but was held firmly in Sesshoumaru’s arms. She looked up at Sesshoumaru and saw the mischievous look in his eyes, she narrowed her own eyes and said, “Sesshoumaru what are you doing with your tail? Remove it or you will be sorry.”

Sesshoumaru chuckled as he said, “I think my tail has a mind of its own and I think it finds your leg very interesting at the moment.” Sesshoumaru didn’t know how right he was, his inner Inu was having fun with their mate as he was gently rubbing her leg with his tail.

Kagome couldn’t help but giggle at the feeling that Sesshoumaru was invoking in her body. She was very ticklish right behind her knee and she was trying very hard not to show him this. She knew she will be in trouble if he found out where she was ticklish.

She got an evil gleam in her eyes as she thought, ‘Two can play at this game.’ She then reached up before Sesshoumaru could pull away from her and started to scratch behind his ear.

Sesshoumaru stiffened when he felt Kagome touching his ears. It was a wonderful feeling, only one other person has ever scratched his ears like this and that was his mother. But Kagome was now scratching his ear and he was in heaven. He slowly closed his eyes as he leaned his head toward Kagome’s hand. He didn’t want her to stop. It just felt so good that he started to growl low in his throat.

Kagome saw the content look on Sesshoumaru’s face. He was relaxed just like when she scratched his ear before, while they were in bed together. His tail fell away from her leg as she took a step back.

She smiled wickedly at him, as she was in a mischievous mood, and said in his ear, “Tag you’re it, catch me if you can.”

Kagome abruptly stopped her ear scratching session as she took off through the door of their bedchambers, running down the hallway.

She slowed her pace as she looked at all the beautiful paintings that were part of the house décor. She has never seen the inside part of the house before. But she had to keep her mind focus on what she was doing, as she started to giggle, while running out the front door and heading towards the gardens.

She knew that Sesshoumaru will be following her very shortly as she heard his vicious growls come from inside the house. She continued to giggle while running toward the forest.

---oOo---

It took a few minutes for Sesshoumaru to realize that Kagome was no longer with him. Her last words finally registered in his mind as he gave a feral growl and took off after her scent. ‘So my little vixen wants to play does she? Well we can certainly take on this challenge. We will find her and then we shall see what she will do once I have her pinned to the ground underneath me.’

Sesshoumaru rushed outside as he sniffed the air. He located her scent as he took off in her direction. But once he got into the forest he lost her scent completely.

Sesshoumaru’s inner Inu growled with pride. The female was testing their ability to track. If he should fail in finding her, it will tell her that he was not worthy to be her mate. Because if she was taken from him he will not be able to get her back, but if he caught her she will know that he will find her no matter what.

It was a test and he was willing to play her game to prove that he was a worthy mate. Since he could not locate her by scent then his other senses will have to be used to find her. He didn’t rely on these senses as much but he knew what to do. Sesshoumaru closed his eyes as he let his hearing go over the land. He was looking for something in particular.

He knew that he could not trust his eyes, they could always be deceived, so he kept them closed. He continued walking slowly as he heard the different animals in the forest. His ears twitched as they moved slightly, moving to filter out everything he didn’t want. He was looking for a certain sound when he finally found it. Just 100 yards in front of him was his target, as he opened his eyes and raced in that direction.

Kagome was watching Sesshoumaru from afar. She hid her scent so he could not follow her. She wanted to see what he would do to locate her if he couldn’t use his nose. She knew that his nose was very sensitive and without it he was almost powerless.

She watched from behind a tree as she saw him walking through the forest. His eyes were closed and she was disappointed, she was going to create an illusion of herself running away from here to see if he would follow. She observed closely to see what he was doing. He stopped in the middle of the clearing and just stood there. Then all of a sudden he takes off running straight for her.

Kagome cursed under her breath. He used his hearing to locate her. But how? Then she got her own answer, her heart was beating even faster as she ran through the forest. She needed to get away from him as she put on a burst of speed and raced through the forest toward the back of the house.

Kagome was now approaching the back gardens. She was running by the large spring that held the water from the waterfall as she was tackled from behind. A high-pitched scream was heard as Kagome and the person that grabbed her went into the freezing water.

Kagome was the first to surface as she was grabbed from behind and held against a strong chest. She struggled against the person holding her when she heard the gentle purrs of Sesshoumaru. When she realized that it was Sesshoumaru she relaxed into his hold, trying to find some warmth in his body.

Sesshoumaru spotted his target just as she cleared the forest. She was running towards the garden as he raced after her and tackled her from behind. He didn’t mean to go into the water but their momentum took them both straight into the large spring since she was so close to it.

Sesshoumaru watched to make sure that Kagome made out of the water before he emerged behind her. She was struggling in his grasp as he purred and it calmed her down. He looked at her as he said in her ear, “Did you really think that you could get away from me so easily?”

He noticed right away that Kagome was shivering in his arms and cursed under his breath for his stupidity. She was cold and could very well get sick from this little soak as he picked her up in his arms and went straight for the bathing chambers. He needed to get her warm as fast as possible so the bathing chambers was the fastest way since it held the hot springs.

He quickly walked over to the cleansing area and sat Kagome down on the bench, where he tried to undress her. Kagome was shaking so much that it was next to impossible to get her clothes off. He used his claws as he tore off the clothes from her body.

He quickly removed his own clothes as he got some buckets and filled them with warm water from the large tub. He walked over to Kagome and poured some water over her head to gradually get her as warm as possible. Once her skin was used to the warmness of the water, he then picked her up and walked into the hot springs.

He found the submerged rock under the water as he sat down and put Kagome in his lap. He wrapped his arms around her body and his tail was keeping her as close as possible. Soon she stopped her shivering and relaxed.

He felt when Kagome shifted her position on his lap as she wrapped her arms around his body and stayed as close as possible. His purr was soothing her as he held her.

Sesshoumaru was in heaven. He had his mate to be in his lap with no clothes on. Her skin felt so soft against his. He knew that he had to wait at least one more day to mate by then she will be ready for him. Well he hoped that she would be ready for him. He wanted her so bad but in order to have the life bond he wanted, they had to mate on the night of the full moon and that won’t be for another day.

---oOo---

Kagome was finally feeling warm. She thought that she will never be warm again as she remembered the cold bath they both had. ‘Note to self. Never play tag with Sesshoumaru near the springs when its winter. We will wind up going into the water when he pounces.’

But she had to admit that she did have fun. She loved the feeling of him chasing her through the forest. She didn’t know why she did it, but in the end, it turned out to be a wonderful experience. If it was warmer she would have enjoyed her little dip in the springs but it was late fall and the water was cold.

Kagome eyes were closed as she relaxed into Sesshoumaru’s warmth. His skin felt so soft against hers. ‘Wait a minute, his skin does feel soft but…’ she partially opened her eyes and looked down, she noticed that they both were not wearing any clothes and she turned a bright red from embarrassment. When she shifted she felt something hard against her stomach and froze. She let her eyes drift downward and she saw the erection that Sesshoumaru held.

Now Kagome might still be a virgin but she did have knowledge of what that meant. She also knew that he must be very uncomfortable at the moment and holding her was not making it any better. She thought for a few minutes and she was wondering if he will grant her the privilege of bathing him, thus relieving him of his problem.

She got an evil gleam in her eyes as she thought, ‘He doesn’t have to know what I have planned. The bathing is part of the mating ritual so he should be receptive to it. Well… I’m hoping that he will be receptive to the idea.’

She looked up as she said, “Next time you pounce, make sure that I’m not by any water and it’s not close to being winter, so we don’t freeze while taking a dip. That water was cold.”

Sesshoumaru chuckled as he said, “You gave this Sesshoumaru a challenge and he accepted. It matters not that we went into the water. I still found and caught my prey without using my sense of smell. Is that not what you wanted?”

Kagome giggled as she said, “Yes I wanted to see if you could find me without that nose of yours. I know how sensitive it is and I wanted to see if your other senses were as strong as your nose.” Kagome relaxed into his hold as a thought came to her mind and she asked, “How did you find me any way?” She asked, wanting to confirm her theory.

There was a gleam in Sesshoumaru’s eyes as he lowered his head and said in her ear, “I found your heartbeat. It is very different from everything else in the forest. I was able to hone in on it with just my hearing as I filtered the other noises out of my senses. From there I was able to hear where the beat was coming from.”

Kagome now confirmed her theory on how he found her and she will have to remember that for the next time they played. They stayed quiet for a while just enjoying each other’s company as Kagome said in a very low voice, “Sesshoumaru, I have a request.”

Sesshoumaru was surprised with what his mate said. She never asked for anything, in all the time she has lived in his home, now she has a request. His natural curiosity got the better of him as he asked, “What is your request Kagome?”

Kagome swallowed hard, she was hoping that he will be receptive to this, as she said, “Allow me the honor of bathing you.”

Sesshoumaru was shocked to hear this. He wanted this, he wanted to get to know her even better but he didn’t know how to ask her. Now here she was asking him if she could bathe him. He purred as he answered, “Only if I get the same honor in return.”

Now it was Kagome’s turn to blush a furious red. Will she be able to handle him if they do this? She had no idea if she could but she was going to find out as she said, “Yes.”

Sesshoumaru was happy he stood from his position in the hot spring and went to the wash area, with Kagome still secured in his arms. Once he got there he gently put Kagome on her feet as she stood in front of him.

Kagome didn’t know if she could do this but she had to find out. She remembered a lot of things that she read about males, like how to pleasure them, and she was about to put that knowledge to good use. She was still blushing as she stepped back and looked into his eyes.

Sesshoumaru’s eyes reflected the feelings he felt for her. She saw the love, want, and the desire. She didn’t know if she was imagining it but his eyes were tainting red around the edges. She had a feeling that his inner Inu was close to the surface and she has to make sure that she tames him too. She has to learn how to handle his more feral side or she had a feeling that he will be all over her.

Kagome stepped away from Sesshoumaru as she turned and went to get some water. She got several buckets full of warm water and then some fragrant soap. She went back to him as Sesshoumaru sat down on the white bench that was there. Even with him sitting down he was still very tall. His head came to just below her neck as he watched her intently.

Kagome took a deep breath, as she got ready. This was her chance to learn about his body and what he liked as far as pleasure. She was determined to find as many places as she could, she knew that if she didn’t she will never get another chance to do it.

She grabbed a bucket and then poured the water over Sesshoumaru’s head getting him all wet again. She took a jar of soap and then moved behind him. The first thing she wanted to explore was his tail. It was always so soft and fluffy that she wanted to see how sensitive it really was.

She poured some soap into her hands as she grabbed his tail and started to wash it. She could have sworn that she heard Sesshoumaru growls of contentment as she was holding his tail.

Kagome gently rubbed the soap into his fur as her fingers made sure that she got it cleaned. Her nails, would on occasion, scrape his skin as she felt him shiver from her touch. She heard a groan come from him and smiled as she thought, ‘He must love to have his tail rubbed and scratched.’ She had to remember this for later as she continued to bathe him.

Once she was satisfied that his tail was clean she poured some water over it to make sure she got the soap out of it. Then she ran her hand down the length to remove the excess water.

Kagome always loved Sesshoumaru’s hair and it was just as soft as she thought it would be. Kagome got his hair all wet as she poured a good amount of soap in it to lather it up. Her hands moved up to his scalp as her fingers massaged his head.

Sesshoumaru didn’t know that he could feel such tenderness coming from someone and the way Kagome made him feel was beyond his comprehension. Her fingers were incredible and her touch aroused him like nothing he has ever experienced before.

The way she washed his tail and gave it so much attention sent a surge of pleasure through his body. His tail, being one of the most sensitive parts of his body, was being taken care of, by his future mate. She was fascinated by it as she took her time and cleaned it. No female has ever caught his attention like Kagome did.

When her finger found its way to his scalp he purred loud and clear, as he tilted his head back and enjoyed her touch. Soon he will have to leave to take care of his problem or he will take Kagome against her will and not wait until she gives him the bond that he was longing for. But he will enjoy her touch for as long as he could stay in control. Her fingers felt wonderful as they found all the places that he loved to be touched. It was hard to believe that it was only her fingers that were causing this reaction in him.

Kagome smiled when she heard his purr. It was a soothing sound and she found that she liked it very much. She wanted to hear more of his purrs as she continued to massage his scalp with her fingers. When she was done she pulled her hands away only to hear him whimper at the lost of her touch. She leaned over and kissed his forehead as she moved away to get some more water to rinse his hair.

She finally got all the soap out of his hair as she took his long locks and twisted his hair in her hands until the excess water came out.

She moved his hair off to the side so she could get to his back and that’s when she saw where his markings went. The two stripes on his waist came up and around his back as they meet in the middle in a point. The point was pointing downward towards his butt as her fingers followed their route.

Sesshoumaru shivered as her fingers ran over his markings. They were very sensitive and he couldn’t believe that she was that fascinated with them. But since it was a part of who he was he was happy that she liked them so much.

Kagome got a washcloth as she washed his back. She made sure to work the muscles she felt that were tight as she felt him relax under her administration. When she finally finished she rinsed his back with warm water as she turned and moved in front of him.

Kagome was surprised to see that Sesshoumaru’s eyes were blood red with passion. She could tell that he was not angry with her but his eyes held the love and lust he has for her. She shivered at the thought of what their first night together will be like.

She moved in front of him as she looked into his eyes. She brought a cloth up and started to clean his face. He closed his eyes as her fingers ran over his markings making him purr with delight. She couldn’t help herself as her lips slowly touched his in a sweet kiss as her hands continued to roam his body.

They slowly went down to his chest as she found his male nipples that were very much like hers. All she did was pass her hands over his nipples and that caused them to get hard.

She moved from his lips as she trailed kisses down his neck. She wanted to see why he would always go for her neck as she gently suckled. He tasted fantastic almost like sweet candy and she found that she loved his taste. She suckled for a while and when she pulled away from him she found that she had marked him. She smiled at her handy work as she brought her hands back up and continued to bathe them.

Sesshoumaru was about to lose his control. Kagome was currently suckling on his neck and that made his problem even worse. Her attention on his neck meant, at least to him, that she was ready to mate, but he knew better. She wanted to get to know his body and he was willing to let her have some time to explore.

He growled with gratification as she continued to taste him. It was hard for him not reach out and grab her, pulling her small form into his body as he was enjoying what she was doing to him. He was at a loss when she pulled away from him, not knowing why she did so.

He felt when she resumed her task of bathing him as he sighed. He wanted her to continue with what she was doing as his sexual desire for her grew.

Sesshoumaru’s control was slowly slipping away from him and he knew that soon his inner Inu would come out to take control. He was fighting against it because he didn’t want to take her just yet but his beast wanted to have the girl now.

He was about to leave when he felt her fingers gently scratching behind his ear. That relaxed the both of them as his eyes returned to their normal honey color.

Kagome was happy to see the normal color of Sesshoumaru’s eyes as she smiled at him. She hoped that scratching his ear would calm him down as she continued bathing him. She couldn’t afford to have his inner Inu come out and ruin her fun. She was not done yet because she wanted to explore some more.

She took one of his arms as she washed it with care. She made sure that she cleaned each of his clawed fingers and when she got to his markings she followed it up to his elbow. Her fingers were gently gliding over his markings, as they felt very soft and smooth.

Kagome noticed that when she got to the other arm that his markings were slightly raised and a little coarse. But they still felt soft to her.

She got to his chest as she rubbed her hands over it to get him cleaned. Her moves were slow and calculating. She could feel him shiver under her touch and his muscles would tighten when her fingers ran over his skin.

She went lower as she finally got to his manhood. He was rock hard by now and she knew that it will not take long to relieve him of his problem. She took a bucket of water and rinsed the soap that he had on his body.

Then she was free to give him pleasure to her hearts content.

-----Start of strong Lime, Light Lemon-----

Sesshoumaru was in heaven as his mate paid homage to his body. His skin was on fire and soon she will be done with his bathing. He was hurting right now and needed relief. He thought that she finished with him when she rinsed him off, he was about to get up when she grabbed him.

Sesshoumaru froze in place not knowing what she was going to do to him. Her hands were wrapped around his manhood as her fingers slowly moved down its length. He was panting hard; he was going to lose all of his control, as he tried to stand and leave.

Kagome heard as Sesshoumaru breath hitched. She just wrapped her hand around his manhood as her fingers slowly explored him. She knew that men were never pleasured in this era. It was the male’s responsibility to please the female, so she could produce offspring’s and keep her loyal to him.

He was very large her hand could not go around his girth. She lowered her head as her tongue came out to taste the tip of his manhood. The moment her tongue touched him she heard a howl come from Sesshoumaru as she looked up to see his blood red eyes.

His feral side was now in control and she will have to deal with him as she continued with what she was doing. Her tongue ran around the crown of his manhood as one of her hands went down and caressed his jewels. They were very soft and covered with a thin layer of soft fur, as she felt their weight.

From their weight she could tell that he was very fertile. They will produce plenty of children for her in the future as she gently massaged them. She was kissing the outside of his manhood as her tongue came out and licked him. Her other hand was slowly moving up and down his length as she stroked him.

She came to the top again as she put her mouth around the head and slowly went down on him.

Sesshoumaru thought that he was going to go crazy. Never before has he heard of a female pleasuring a male in this manner. When his father talked to him about these things he never mentioned anything like this. He was losing his mind as her soft hands moved over him, gently caressing him.

Then Kagome wrapped her sweet lips around the top of Sesshoumaru’s erection as she started to suckle. The pleasure was too great as Sesshoumaru struggled to maintain control. But he was slowly losing to his desires as he finally gave into the feeling that she was invoking in him.

Kagome felt when he finally relaxed enough to enjoy what she was doing to him. A smile came to her lips as she continued. She started to go faster as she heard Sesshoumaru panting. His manhood got even harder, if that was even possible, as she continued her assault on him.

Then she felt when his jewels went up and shortly after it he came long and hard into her mouth. She swallowed his seed and it tasted very sweet. She thought that it would taste salty but his seed was very sweet like honey.

Once she milked him dried she looked up into his eyes. They were closed at the moment and he was breathing hard. Kagome smiled as she pulled away from him. She grabbed her washcloth again and began bathing him once more. She cleaned his manhood and his jewels, and then she went down to his legs and feet.

She made sure to clean him thoroughly as she took her last remaining bucket of warm water and poured it over him to get the soap off. She stood as she gathered the things she used and started to put them away.

She heard a growl and before she could turn around to see what was wrong, she was pulled into an extremely warm, but very hard chest, as arms encircled her body.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru was still riding the first wave of his orgasm, his body was still on fire, as his little vixen pulled away from him and looked up. He saw the gleam in her eyes when she saw him. She seemed to be satisfied with her work as she resumed bathing him.

Her attention to his body was still very soft and gentle as she finished bathing him. He felt the water being poured over his body as she stood and walked away from him. ‘What manner of creature have I fallen in love with? She is passionate in everything she does and never have I heard of a female doing these types of things to a male before. She’s different and our night of mating will be very enjoyable.’ Sesshoumaru thought as he watched her leave and go over to the warm tub.

Her hair came down past her bottom and went almost to her knees. All you could really see from the back were her legs and the most gorgeous hair he has ever seen. She was a goddess, his goddess, and he will spend all eternity worshiping that body of hers.

Kagome has managed to pacify his feral side. With his inner beast at peace, it left him in control and he was planning on getting even with his lovely mate. She will not out do him as he gave a feral growl and rushed to her side.

Before his mate knew what was going on he had her in his grasp. He felt her stiffen in his hold as he started to lick her mating mark, she gave a wonderful mewl that filled his ears. When she fully relaxed he said in her ear, “Now it’s my turn to bathe you, my mate.”

Kagome shivered from his statement, his voice was very deep and passionate. She had the strange feeling that what she did to him was nothing compared to what he was going to do to her. She felt herself being picked up as he moved her to the bench where he was sitting just a few moments ago.

Sesshoumaru sat Kagome down as he went and retrieved some water to bathe her with. He was really looking forward to this. The last time he bathed her he didn’t do anything, he was concerned about her health, plus she was unconscious and couldn’t really enjoy it. But this time he will take his time and find out what she liked.

Sesshoumaru returned with the buckets in his hands as he walked over to Kagome. He noticed that she was blushing, a fiery red, he saw the blush start at her cheeks and go down her body. She was beautiful when she blushed as he got a bucket and poured it over her body to get her wet.

Sesshoumaru sat behind her, he turned her sideways, grabbed the soap, and then he proceeded to wash her hair. This time it was easier for him to do it since she was sitting up. He made sure to clean her long locks as his clawed fingers went to her scalp. He retracted his claws because he did not want to hurt her as he gently massaged.

He heard the most beautiful moan come from her throat as he continued with his actions. He found that Kagome’s neck was a very sensitive area as he passed a couple of spots and felt her shiver from it.

Kagome thought that having someone wash your hair would not be that pleasurable, but she was wrong, oh boy was she ever wrong. Sesshoumaru’s fingers on her scalp caused her body to react in a way that she has never experienced before. She was panting from his heated touch, and thought that she might faint with desire.

When his fingers finally stopped what they were doing she whimpered, she really didn’t want him to stop. She heard a chuckle coming from him as she felt the warm water going down her back rinsing out her hair. Her blush deepened just a bit as she tried to regain control but she was fighting a losing battle with her body.

His hands were gentle, as he made sure to get the soap out of her hair. He moved her hair over her shoulder as he began to wash her back. His hands were rubbing her back in such a way that it was getting rid of the soreness that she was feeling. Not training for a few days and then fighting with Sesshoumaru for two days in a row made her muscles sore.

Kagome moaned very loudly as he found a particular sore muscle. His arm went around her as he pressed his fingers into her back. Kagome couldn’t help but lean forward as she fully relaxed in his arm, while he worked out the kinks in her back.

Sesshoumaru pulled his arm away from her as he heard her protest the removal of the appendage. He rinsed her back and he was now ready to bathe the front of her.

Sesshoumaru moved Kagome closer to him as his legs were on each side of her thigh. Her back was pressed against his chest as he held her firmly in his arms. He grabbed the washcloth again as he started with her little fingers and washed each one with care. He then went up her arm and then under it to clean it. When he came down just a bit on the inside, close to her breast, he heard her giggle. He raised an eyebrow at this and thought, ‘So, she is ticklish just on the side of her breast. I have to remember this for later.’

He took her other arm and did the same thing, again he heard her giggle when he got to the side of her breast. He smirked, now he knew of a few places where he could tease her and she will be at his mercy.

Sesshoumaru leaned Kagome against his arm as his other hand came up and started to clean her face. She closed her beautiful blue eyes as he continued to wash her. He lowered his lips and nipped the outer part of her ear, as she moaned loudly. He ran his tongue on the inner portion of her ear as she started to shiver in his arms and her arousal went through the roof. This little action really aroused her and he was happy to learn this.

He couldn’t wait any longer as he captured her lips. He quickly entered her mouth when she gasped at his actions. He ravished her mouth as he held her tightly in his arms. He wouldn’t let her move as he held her to him and did as he pleased.

They broke from their heated kiss for lack of air. Kagome was panting hard as she tried to get the air back into her lungs. He went for her neck and Kagome completely submitted to his administration.

Kagome was on an emotional overload. Her body was on fire from what Sesshoumaru was doing to her. She had an ache so great that she thought she might die from it. It hurt so much that she didn’t know what to do. He was invoking strong feelings in her body, which she has never felt before as her heart was racing with desire.

She needed release but she didn’t know what to do. She was being subdued at the moment and she couldn’t move her hands. She thought that she was going to go mad if he continued to torture her body.

Sesshoumaru knew that his mate was in pain. She needed relief and soon or she will grow impatient with him. He sat her up again as he continued to bathe her. His hands went gently over her breast as he rubbed each one with care. They were just big enough to fill the palm of his hands.

Kagome groaned when she felt Sesshoumaru grabbing her breast. He was massaging them slowly as she arched her back for him. She wanted more and this was her way of telling him.

Sesshoumaru had to find a place to lay his mate down. She has so much desire going through her body right now that she was moving quite a bit. She will be harder to control if he went down any further, when he noticed the large pillows that he used yesterday. It was big enough for the both of them as he quickly rinsed her off. He hastily picked her up in his arms as he laid her on the large pillow.

Kagome didn’t know what was going on, when she was picked up and laid down on something very soft. The next thing she knew was that Sesshoumaru’s lips found hers again as he kissed her. Kagome kissed him back with such passion that her arousal went through the roof.

Sesshoumaru was now free to explore her body with ease, this time his scent was going to stay on her as he rubbed himself against her body. He slowly moved down to the valley between her breasts as he licked his way down. He was in heaven, she tasted sweet and her scent was driving him crazy.

He found one of her breast as his tongue came out and gently went around the harden numb. He wrapped his tongue around it as he pulled his lips over them and started to suckle. He could feel the nipple lengthen to the size of his mouth as he suckled at his newfound treat. His hand found her other breast as it was massaging it.

Kagome couldn’t believe what she was feeling. Her passion was on fire and Sesshoumaru suckling on her breast was pure ecstasy. She couldn’t help the moan that came out of her mouth at the feeling she was getting. She never knew that this is what he felt when she was bathing him. If she inspired this much passion in him, then their joining will be wonderful.

She felt him shift as he released her nipple and went after the other one. She was panting hard as she moaned, “Ohhhhh Sess… hou… maruuuu.”

This was all Sesshoumaru wanted to hear from her as he released her breast and continued to go down. Her scent, he was after her scent that was spicy and sweet. He wanted to taste it. He could not hold off any longer, if he didn’t taste her and soon he will go mad.

Sesshoumaru nudged her legs apart with his knee as he continued to go down. He pinned her legs back as he got to what he wanted. Her scent was very strong here as he parted her lower lips. She was wet, very wet for him and he was excited. His tongue came out of his mouth, as he tasted her sweet juices for the first time.

‘Kami she tastes so sweet! She tastes like apples and honey with a hint of cinnamon.’ Thought Sesshoumaru as he settled down to suckle at her entrance. He was bound and determined to suck all the juices out of her. His thumb found her harden numb, that got hard and came out of its protective hood, as he was gently rubbing it.

Kagome let out a scream of pleasure as she arched her hips up in an attempt to get away from him. Sesshoumaru held her down as he continued to lap up all of her sweet juices. When he got all of her juices he moved his mouth up as his lips wrapped around her numb and he inserted one finger into her. She was tight; she was very tight and wet for him. He will have to work her to make sure that he did not hurt her their first time together.

He started to move his finger in and out of her as he built up her passion. He started to go faster as he added another finger to heighten her pleasure. He worked his fingers in a scissor like fashion, in this way he got her stretched just a little before their actual mating. He continued going in and out of her when he felt that she was coming to her end and soon. He felt her walls contracting as she yelled, “SESSHOUMARU!!!!”

Kagome felt when he put something into her most private part. It hurt but what he was doing to her was more pleasurable than the pain she was feeling at the moment. When he added another she knew it had to be fingers.

Kami she didn’t know that his tongue was so talented, as she felt something tightening in her stomach. He continued with his actions when her body tensed. She exploded in a maelstrom of passion, as she came hard yelling his name.

She felt when he removed his fingers from her as his mouth replaced them. When he did that she climax again as she continued to scream her pleasure. She didn’t know what an orgasm was until today. She was breathing hard as she tried to get her breathing under control.

Kagome felt drained as she came down from her high. Her heart was beating fast as she closed her eyes and tried to calm down.

Sesshoumaru finally got all of her sweet nectar. She was addicting and he couldn’t wait to have her as his mate. She was still breathing hard as he crawled over her body and looked at her. Her cheeks were flushed from her passion and she was still breathing hard. He kissed her with fervor as he let go of her and asked, “Kagome, are you all right?”

Kagome smiled as she said, “Yes, I’m fine, you were wonderful, thank you.” She closed her eyes as she fell asleep. She was tired from everything they did that afternoon. She now knew that her life will be very interesting with the youkai that was on top of her as his scent sent her into a peaceful sleep.

------End of Lime/Light Lemon------

Sesshoumaru watched Kagome as she fell asleep in his arms. She was beautiful and he couldn’t wait until tomorrow to have her as his own. He was sure that she was ready for him. He felt her passion for him and when she screamed his name it was music to his ears. Yes, he now knew that their mating will be intense. She was a very passionate person and he will make sure that he gave her as much pleasure as she gave him if not more.

He picked her up in his arms as he moved to the hot springs. She will need to soak for a while to make sure that she was not in pain from what he did. She was very tight and he had to stretch her so he wouldn’t hurt her when he took her as his mate.

He walked into the springs with Kagome’s sleeping form in his arms as he sat in the water. He held her close to his chest as he purred to soothe her. He looked out the window and noticed that it was already dark outside. He wondered how long they have been in the bathing chambers as he closed his eyes in contentment.

He opened his senses as he scanned the area. It was peaceful out tonight and there was no threat of danger. He felt his father’s soldiers nearby as they patrolled the area. There were no males around the house and this pleased him. He knew that his mate was safe and that no one will challenge him for her.

Kagome didn’t know how weak she was right now. If another male was to attack her she will not be able to protect herself. That’s why males that were courting never left their females unattended. They had to protect them until they were mated from the other males.

If the female was naturally strong, then a weaker male will be able to over power and mate her, before she knew what was happening. He will not allow this. Kagome was his mate and he will protect her until they were mated and then for all eternity.

He felt his mothers worry for them as he sent a calming feeling to her to let her know that they were fine.

Sesshoumaru was content at the moment. He has his mate and they have experienced each other in the heat of passion. He never knew that Kagome could control his inner beast in such a manner. His inner Inu was gently purring, happy to have his mate.

Sesshoumaru finally left the bathing chambers with his mate. He didn’t bother to clothe her as he put her in bed. He smelled the food that was by the door and looked at his mate. She needed to eat and feeding her was the best part of the day. Although the fun they had while bathing was by far the best.

He wrapped his tail around his waist, as he went to the door to retrieve the food.

Sesshoumaru picked Kagome back up and placed her in his lap once more. He covered her body with his tail as he nuzzled her on her neck requesting that she wake up. When she wouldn’t wake up he started to lick his mark and his mate then started to awaken.

Kagome was tired. She felt like she just been through the toughest training in her life. Her body hurt as she whined. All she wanted to do was sleep and someone was trying to wake her. She slowly opened her eyes to see the concerned look on Sesshoumaru’s face.

Kagome snuggled into his chest wanting to sleep but Sesshoumaru was not about to let her. She whined as she growled and yipped, “I’m tried, I want to sleep.”

Sesshoumaru was concerned that he might have been too ruff on her or that he had hurt her during their bath. He nuzzled her as he growled back, “Mate must eat. Mate must get stronger for our mating.”

He offered her some food as he coasted her into eating. He had to keep nudging her so she could chew her food. She was so tired that she kept falling asleep with food in her mouth and he was afraid that she would choke on it.

Once he was satisfied that she has eaten enough he let her sleep. She curled her body into his and hugged his chest finding comfort within his hold.

Sesshoumaru finished eating as he laid his mate back down. He put the tray back outside the door as he made his way toward their futon. He was tired too as he curled up next to his mate and brought her into his body.

He thought that the Kami’s made her just for him because she fit so perfectly against him. His arm went around her as he buried his nose into her hair. Her sweet scent finally relaxed him enough to fall into a peaceful sleep.

Sesshoumaru was dreaming about his mate and when they finally will be together as one. Sweet dreams filled his mind as he saw children with blue/black and white hair running around the field where his lovely mate was playing with them. He was in his true form keeping watch over them as their protector. Never wanting any harm to come to what was his.

---oOo---

This is the end to another chapter. As you can see a game of tag turned hot as Kagome and Sesshoumaru had fun in the bath.

You know the drill guys. Fanfiction you got the water downed version of this chapter. The full version can be found at A Single Spark and AdultFanFiction. So those of you that are old enough to read what I actually wrote can go to these sites and read the uncensored version of this chapter. Sorry but I had too many complaint about the heat of passion and I’m not going there this time with this story.

A Single Spark awards is now open for voting. Please go to the site and look at the great stories that have been nominated and vote for your favorite ones.

In the next chapter our villains start coming back into the picture. Koga comes back and is after Kagome. He wants to get his hands on her but will he even have the chance when Sesshoumaru is sticking so close to her.

Join me in the next chapter as Sesshoumaru and Kagome get closer to mating as the plot thickens.

Until the next chapter!

Ja ne!