Where My Heart Lies

A/N: Sorry, Merona's in this chapter, not the last one, and she's still mine ;P

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InuYasha opened his eyes. It was very early morning. He felt sore, but rested. He looked around, confused. Where was he? Why was his shirt and haori on the other side of this den? Looking down, he saw Kagome sleeping in his arms, her bare back pressed against his chest, his left arm curled around her waist, hand tucked under her right side. His eyes opened with shock. What the hell happened?? Not moving, he tried to remember what had gone on. He had been injured and passed out, but before that, Kagome had killed Nioaku. After that.... he wasn't sure. How long had he been out? Clips of memory of the past few days came back to him. The bits and pieces of his few conscious moments started to come back to him. Kagome talking to him, telling him she would help him get better. Kagome giving him water, food. He remembered a particular image of Kagome sitting just there, next to the fire that was now only a few embers. He concentrated harder as he tried to bring the memory into focus. She had been asleep. But why was she sitting up? She had looked so tired, small black circles under her eyes. Her bow and arrow, now lying within arms reach of the bed, had been laid across her lap. Realization dawned on InuYasha

"You were protecting me....." His words were whispered so as to not wake her. Relaxing again, laying his head back down, InuYasha hugged Kagome a little closer. His body welcomed the press of her curves against him, but his revelation in the newly intimate embrace superceded anything else. He felt... safe. When was the last time he had felt that? He didn't know. Had he ever felt safe? With anyone? Immediately, Kikyou came to mind. No, I never even felt this with her. Why Kagome? How long have you been straining yourself to keep me alive? He couldn't understand. Two years ago, he had been ready to tell Kagome he couldn't see her again, he cared for her, but he had sworn himself to protect Kikyou. Instead, she acknowledged his feelings regarding Kikyou and stayed. He had assumed, over time, she had moved on. He knew that he had feelings for the girl that now lay with him, and they had grown since, but he hadn't realized how deep they truly ran. The rush of warmth in his heart was foreign to him. He trusted Kagome, felt safe with her. To not have to hold someone at a distance, for fear they would harm or betray him was... astonishing to InuYasha to say the least. The love he felt for Kagome swept over him.

Love? The unexpected thought flashed in his mind. Gazing down at Kagome, her head resting next to his, he nuzzled closer, inhaling the scent that he had come to adore. Do I love her? I need her, I want her, I care for her. But love…? He considered this for a moment. I... think I do… His eyes saddened suddenly. The last time he had allowed himself to love…. there were dire consequences What about Kikyou? I loved her… still love her. However the feeling in InuYasha’s heart was much different from that which he had felt with Kikyou. Another concern crossed his mind. But how can I tell her.... can I be sure she feels the same, after all that has happened? As soon as the doubt crept into his mind, the memory of the other to whom he had trusted his heart started to arrived. Kikyou. InuYasha heart gave a little lurch. Kagome was her reincarnation. Even though he tried to push the hateful thought away, an image of Kagome striking him down with a Miko's arrow came unbidden to his mind. He squeezed his eyes shut. No! He told himself firmly, Kagome is not Kikyou. She wouldn't turn against me... The uncertainty that plagued him started to subside, although he was sure it would surface again. He didn't know if he would ever be able to completely trust anyone, even Kagome.

InuYasha sighed. What about her feelings? Would she trust him? He flashed back to all the times he had gone to see Kikyou, knowing after that it had bothered Kagome. If Kagome loved him back, and she knew his feelings for her.... him seeing Kikyou, no matter how innocent, would wound her deeply. InuYasha shook his head. Don’t be stupid! he scolded himself. Kagome cares about you the same she cares about everyone else. Besides, you’re the one that pushed her away! Convincing himself that any possibility of Kagome still having feelings for him were slim and none, InuYasha raised his head again to view Kagome's sleeping face. I wish things had been different. Laying his head back down, his mind gave in to a troublesome sleep. If what he wanted was impossible, then he would have to be satisfied with these few stolen moments.

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Kagome's mind surfaced from the grey world between sleeping and waking. Stretching slightly she smiled. That was the best night she had had in a very long time. Since sharing her body heat with InuYasha, he hadn't seemed to have moved or wakened at all.

The hanyou was asleep. Feeling his forehead, Kagome confirmed that the fever was gone. His wounds seemed to be almost healed. They would be able to leave and head back to the village soon. Uncurling herself from him, Kagome got up and rummaged through her bag for another sweater. Her pants were fine to wear a couple of days in a row, if necessary, but she drew the line at sweating in the same shirt day in and out. Grabbing one, she pulled it over her head. This one was blue and white in the pattern of snowflakes. It was actually one of her favorites. As always, the sweater was snug. Most of the clothing that she took to the feudal era had to be. Checking on InuYasha again, Kagome made sure that he was warm enough, then doused the remaining embers. Grabbing her bow and arrows, she left to hunt. It was already the middle of the day.

Outside, the new snow glistened. The crisp fresh air filled her lungs and made her feel incredibly alive. She loved the feudal era, everything so fresh and clean. Her thoughts sobered once again as they turned to her family. Though she shed no tears, she still felt an ache in her heart. Sighing, she reminded herself that she could only make the best of the situation now. And she still had to find a way to tell InuYasha about the well. As she walked away from the den and further into the unfamiliar forest, Kagome knew that he would be guilt ridden at her staying by him, and losing her only access to her home. Although he raised hell each and every time she left, he also knew how important it was to her. How many times as she told him that? How many times had she had to coerce him to let her leave? And now, to tell him that she couldn’t see her family ever, because she stayed with him. She chose him. He wouldn’t realize that it was due to the love she felt for him, of course. Kagome knew that as far as he was concerned, they were only friends, she stayed with him for protection and to find the jewels shards. Kagome sighed again. She’d figure out something. Until then… InuYasha would have to be kept in the dark.

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InuYasha awoke, knowing immediately that Kagome was no longer there. Her scent permeated the blanket that he was wrapped in, and it lingered on the air in the den, but it was far from fresh. He laid his hand on the spot where she had been laying next to him. It was cold. She had been gone for awhile. The disappointment that crept up on him at not finding her next to him surprised the half demon. He shook the feeling off. I got cold, that’s all. He didn’t want to let himself feel more for Kagome, when he was sure she didn’t feel the same. He stretched with some stiffness and rose. Making his way to the other side of the den for his undershirt and haori, he tried to think on how long they had been staying here. InuYasha redressed as he kicked at the deadened fire. It was hard to tell by that, Kagome had kept it going almost constantly. He must have been in hard shape to need such constant warmth. The new memory of Kagome in his arms appeared in his mind and he blushed. That’s why she was with me, I needed the warmth, and the fire had gotten too low. After further searching, he found the nook where Kagome had thrown old skins from her kills. It almost looked as though she had been trying to stretch them and sew them together, though not very successfully. Judging by the number of skins, InuYasha guessed they had been there a few days now.

Stepping out of the den, he sniffed to find Kagome’s scent. The snow took him off guard for a moment, then he remembered how cold it had been the night of the battle with Nioaku. Glancing around, he spotted Kagome’s tracks, and automatically followed their direction. Shit, I don’t even know where we are. Far from the village that’s for sure... When he found her, they would be able to pack up and get back home. He didn’t like being out here, and liked it even less that Kagome wasn’t near by. He couldn’t sense demon, but he had a bad feeling, not unlike the one that he had felt before Nioaku showed up. InuYasha grimaced to himself, remembering that it had been the girl who had killed Nioaku, not himself. Still, despite Kagome proving herself capable of taking a demon down on her own, Nioaku had been off guard, watching InuYasha, and not paying attention. Neither one of them had even known about Kagome’s presence until the arrow had been shot into the tree. What would happen if she was taken off guard instead? InuYasha knew that she was tired, and weakened from being unaccustomed to using her powers so much, he could smell it off her. He couldn’t be sure Kagome would be able to hold her own now, if anything should happen. A strong gust of wind struck across his back, blowing in the direction he was heading. His hair and clothes were whipped in front of him. InuYasha’s eyes widened as he caught the scent of demon. One too similar to Nioaku’s for his comfort. And it was heading for Kagome.

“Shit! Kagome! ”

InuYasha ran, praying that he would reach her before the demon did.

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Kagome spotted the white hare digging in the snow to find the sweet grass roots that lay beneath. Swiftly, quietly, she dropped behind a snow covered bush and gently laid her quiver of arrows to the side. Picking one and notching it into her bow, she rose slightly and took aim. The hare continued its search, but suddenly stopped. Kagome held her breath and froze. Before she could release the shot, the hare was gone, taking off into the protection of the trees. She let out a small growl of frustration.

“Don’t waive your little fuzzy tail at me. Go!” she called out as the animal turned and looked at her for a moment before disappearing behind a snow bank that had developed against a tree. Coming out from her hiding place, Kagome walked out into the clearing where the hare had previously been having lunch.

“Ugh, this is getting irritating. It’s already mid-afternoon and I haven’t caught a damned thing. And I’m talking to myself!” She dragged one hand down her face in aggravation. When she got back, she would check on InuYasha again. From the look of his wounds, he should be able to travel tomorrow. Then they could head back to the village, and she wouldn’t have to try and kill, clean, and cook dinner. Stretching and rubbing the back of her neck, Kagome started to head back into the forest, hoping that there would be more prey further in. Before she reached the edge of the clearing, a brittle wind whirled around her, whipping stinging ice particles around her face and blinding her with snow. She gave a small scream of surprise.

As the winds quit, the snow and ice settled. Kagome turned to see a demon standing in the middle of the field. Not giving the demon a chance to attack, Kagome drew an arrow and made ready to let it fly.

“Who are you? What do you want?”

The demon was female. Long red hair fell freely down her back, but her eyes were black, both features in sharp contrast to her pale complexion. A brown shirt, with long sleeves but cut short along her midsection didn’t seem to have any armor. A skirt of a darker shade reached her ankles, but was slit up to mid thigh, and revealed two wickedly sharp daggers, one strapped to each taunt thigh. Kagome could see the handle of a sword peeking out from behind her shoulder. From experience, she knew that demons that did not carry a lot of weapons had powers of attack. The demon chuckled, but the surprisingly pleasant laughter never reached her eyes.

“I am Merona. The sister of the demon you slayed. Nioaku was far from weak. How is it that a mere human killed him?”

Kagome looked at Merona with surprise. How had she known it was her? There had been no other demon scent after Nioaku died.

“Don’t look surprised, you little bitch. You scent was all over the place where Nioaku died. Grant it, you must have some power. It took me a few days to find you. I also smell the filthy mutt I’ve heard you keep company with. Where is he now? I’m ordered to kill him, and keep you. But I’d like to make sure I do a good job.” Merona unsheathed one of her daggers and started to twirl it. She bared her teeth at Kagome in an evil smile.

“Don’t think I will give you the chance to kill him. Look what happened to you brother.” Kagome was surprised at her own brashness. When the hell did she start taunting demons that wanted to smear her across the landscape? She didn’t know how Merona knew about InuYasha, or who was giving her orders, but she wouldn’t let this she-demon attack InuYasha while he was still weak.

“You little cunt.” The words came from Merona as if they dripped poison. Her black eyes flamed red and her beautiful face contorted in a snarl. With unbelievable speed she shortened the distance between her and Kagome.

Kagome loosed the arrow she had aimed at Merona’s heart. The demon dodged it only seconds before it destroyed her body. The mortal’s attack did not slow her. Raising her dagger as she rushed to her prey, a maniacal grin came over her face. Kagome could see her own face in the flat of the blade that was advancing at eye level. She didn’t have time to get another arrow ready.

InuYasha snarled as he raced towards Merona. Kagome saw only a blur of red across her eyes. One moment, Merona had every intention of piercing the left brown orb of the mortal with her dagger. The next the wind was knocked out of her as the half breeds shoulder connected with her stomach. She was furious! She wasn't going to kill the little bitch, just maim her a little! The master had said nothing about having her intact... just alive. But the filthy little animal had stopped her. Merona roared with rage.

"Get off me!" she slashed downward at InuYasha's arm. He pushed himself away before the blade could do any more that slice against his haori. He returned to Kagome's side without taking his eyes off of Merona.

"Are you ok?"

"Yes. She's Merona, she's Nioaku's sister."

"Keh, I thought the stench was familiar"

Merona glared at InuYasha. “I wouldn't be one to talk about stench you disgusting little half breed. Look at you. The get of some worthless human and a sentimental, weak demon. The least you could do was try to get another demon, but no," she smirked, "you follow your idiotic father's footsteps. Another pathetic human. Creating only more filthy trash like yourself!"

Merona unsheathed the sword that she had strapped to her back. The blade was broad and menacing, one side serrated, the other so sharp it could split hairs. Lunging at InuYasha, she made to take him in one sweep. Blocking her attack with Tetseiga, InuYasha returned her attempt with backslash of his own. As they parried, Kagome attempted to aim at Merona with one of her Miko's arrows. She found herself unable to attack; the risk of hitting InuYasha was too great.

The clash of swords rang. InuYasha could feel himself getting weaker, though no blood had been shed. Even worse, Merona could sense it. The look in her eyes was fanatical as she thrust ever forward. He could see her muttering to herself calmly as she put full force behind her attacks, pushing him further and further back.

"Repulsive little hanyou, vile human. Kill them, orders. He wants him dead, he'll die. The bitch, kill the bitch, make it an accident. A slow one. Kill the mutt. Destroy the girl." Although the majority of what she was saying was subdued, the last three words were grinded out with a growl.

She's fuckin crazy! InuYasha felt a small thrill of fear run through him. At this point, the female demon was too far into the abyss of her own mind to sense it. He could fight pissed demons. Even ones like Sesshoumarou, who was cold and calculating. Insane demons were a threat to all. They would fight until they died, and if they didn't, the ones they killed would be lucky if it was done quickly. I have to make sure she doesn't get Kagome. She's not so concerned with me, but Kagome.... InuYasha couldn't finish the thought, instead blocking another attack. Finally seeing an opening, he raised his claws to Merona's face.

"Sankontessou!" The attack did not affect the crazed demon as much as what he had hoped, but she backed off quickly. Seizing the opportunity, InuYasha raised Tetseiga.

"Kaze no Kizu!" A steam of power flew in Merona's direction. The wind, the snow rose and swept itself against InuYasha. Kagome ran to his side, certain that Merona had been destroyed. InuYasha held her behind him. The scent of the other demon was still there. What the fuck...?

As the wind died, Merona rose into the air. Her hair was wild, flowing away from her body with the demonic aura pouring from her. There were deep gashes on her face, limbs and torso, her clothes clung to her in tatters, her weapons were no where to be seen. Kagome gasped when she saw her face. The youkai was insane. Her eyes were now completely red, her face registered delirious, yet horrifying, joy. Her laughter resounded like a screech.

"Is that it? That's what you were going to kill me with? You pathetic little pissant! Try to be grateful that I will scatter you from here to eternity!" Now forgetting about Kagome, Merona charged toward InuYasha. Her speed not only equaled her brothers, it was far superior. Ducking his slash with the Tetseiga, she crashed her elbow into his newly healed jaw. Her smile was frightening as she heard the bone crack. Soaring back up above her two victims, she observed their reactions. InuYasha had been drove back against an outcropping rock with the blow. He was stunned, but could feel the wound beginning to heal, and it hurt like a bitch. Kagome rushed to him, and kneeling beside him reached for an arrow. Her hand paused when she realized there was no quiver on her back. Her arrows! Frantically looking around, she saw them on the other side of the clearing, where she had been when Merona first attacked. There wasn't enough time to grab them now.

The fire-haired demon giggled uncontrollably.

"Silly little girl" she crooned. "If you couldn't strike me the first time...” Her features darkened, her tone became menacing, "what the hell makes you think you could do it now!?”

Merona charged again for the third and final time. Kagome panicked. InuYasha prepared to brace against the oncoming youkai with Tetseiga, but Kagome knew it wasn't going to be enough. The demonic aura radiating from Merona was suffocating. Reflecting swiftly, Kagome attempted a barrier. There was a haze but it failed.

"Try it again."

Kagome looked at InuYasha, shocked.

"Wh-what?"

"You can do this! Now, try it AGAIN!" InuYasha grabbed her hand and held it firmly. Merona was closing in quickly. Kagome stood and turned toward the nearing demon, strengthened. Clasping InuYasha's hand, she opened the other in front of her, palm facing out in a stop signal. Closing her eyes, she focused her power, deep in her soul. She felt it center and let it flow. Opening her eyes, she saw the sheer blue barrier hold. Was it strong enough?

Merona struck it head on. Instead of repelling back, she was trying to push through! InuYasha watched in horror as the insane youkai cackled. The smell of burnt flesh pushed its way into his nose.

"YOU CANNOT KILL ME!! THIS IS NOTHING!" She screamed.

Kagome's eyes widened, then squeezed shut. More! I need more...! As she dug deeper within herself, the flow of her power flooded her. Her heart raced and she felt the energy crashing inside her. She dropped to her knees as pain started to fill her body. InuYasha touched her shoulder; he could see a blue hazy outline covering her. He spoke her name, but she could hear nothing, the rushing in her ears too great. Oh God... I'm dying... I'm not strong enough...! The pressure within her built, and she let out a whimper of pain. She couldn't do it, the energy was too much. I have to hold on, I can do this! her mind cried. Gripping InuYasha's hand tighter, she bore down on the pain. Throwing back her head, she gritted her teeth.

It stopped. The rush. The pain. The pressure. It all stopped. All Kagome felt was the strength, the awesome strength of the power now flowing within her, no longer trying to get out, but part of her body.

InuYasha watched with amazement. Kagome's face had become perfectly calm. The blue outline was still there, but stronger now. When she opened her eyes, they were essentially the same color as before, only now there seemed to be a pale, striking blue tinge to the whites of her eyes, and her normally brown irises seemed lighter.

Facing Merona's glare, Kagome rose, her hair rippling although there was no wind. Her hand still held InuYasha's, though not with the urgency it had only moments ago. Her other hand still faced towards the demon.

"Stupid bitch! Meditations won't help you, nor magic. I WILL KILL YOU BOTH!" Merona's screams were frantic as she continued to try and claw her way through the barrier. Both arms were burnt black, her once beautiful hair now almost completely scorched away. Kagome's eyes remained steady.

"No."

A pulse of blue light imparted from Kagome's extended hand, widening as it advanced outward, encompassing both her and InuYasha in a half circle of safety. It soon reached Merona.

The female youkai's screams of anguish pierced the air. Stuck in the barrier, she was unable to escape. Slowly, her body burned and turned to ash. Her words were indistinguishable from her cries.

The light dissipated after Merona was no more. The barrier faded. Still holding his hand, Kagome turned to the hanyou now standing next to her. InuYasha looked at her uncertainly, not quite sure what had happened. She smiled gently, warmly at him.

"InuYasha..."

Suddenly, Kagome's eyes rolled back into her head and her body went limp. InuYasha caught her just before she struck the ground. Sweeping one arm under her legs, he cradled her to his body and started to walk her back to the den. What had just happened? Was that Kagome's full power? Somehow, he didn't think so. It had felt... unfinished to him. He looked down at the unconscious woman her carried. She hadn't trained for that kind of use yet, he knew that much. His brow furrowed with worry.

Kagome...

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A/N: All right, there's chapter 4 and 5. didn't want to post chapter 4 by itself cause it's kinda too quiet. Hope you liked them! Please review, not too sure on how this story is doing. Some people seem to like it but overall it doesn't seem to be doing well. Comments and crticisms are welcomed and appreciated so please let me know what you think, and if you have any suggestions! Thanks so much to everyone whos read and/or reviewed so far!! TTFN!
oops, btw, I was thinking about changing the name... maybe... if I do, I'll give lots of notice.

No really.. I LIKE reviews.... :)