Giving the Miko a Second Chance

Chapter 5: Sango tells Kaede Story…Kaede Musings

A/N: Sorry I took so long with the update. Thank you all for your support, enjoy!


Two days has past since Sesshoumaru and Kaede begin their voyage to search for the old eccentric sword smith home. Inuyasha, Kagome and Miroku had returned to their village
after they defeated the youkai that had invaded another town. However, they did not escape the skirmish unscathed. Kagome and Miroku received minor bruises, while Inuyasha being the brash individual he is received a serious gash on his side as a result of that particular personality trait. Thanks to Kagomes’ training as a miko and previous first aid knowledge, she was able to treat all of their scrapes, bruises and slashes. Luckily for Inuyasha, he returned to his hanyou a few hours later which allowed his wound to heal quickly. However if it wasn’t for Kagome treatment in his human form the wound may have become infected or worse.


When Inuyasha, Kagome and Miroku were heading toward their village, Inuyasha smelled the old scent of Kaedes’ spilled blood and the scent of death. The gang became apprehensive, as they increased their speed and hurried to the village. Miroku went to check on the children and Sango while Inuyasha and Kagome headed to Kaedes’ hut.

After Rin told him that everyone was fine and that Sango was at Kaedes’ home, he rushed back to the elderly miko abode. Sango told Rin that it would be best for her to tell the gang what happened while they were gone. After all Kaede requested that she be the one to inform their family about what has transpired. Another reason she wanted to tell them is because she was the adult and she felt that little Rin has had enough burdens to deal with in her short life time. Though she knew that with Inuyasha nose, he would be able to figure out at least some of what has happened while they were away. Finally the guilt riddled slayer blamed herself for Kaedes’ death experience, hence why she also felt honor bond to notify them.

Sango was checking on Kaedes’ hut for her while the miko was traveling with Sesshoumaru. Her children were a little wary about going out side since their run in with the youkai in the forest. Rin wanting to help in anyway that she could volunteered to watch Sangos’ and Mirokus’ brood. Rin promised that she wouldn’t ‘let anything happened to them like she did last time’. Sango told her ‘not to dare blame herself for what occurred’ and that she was very grateful for Rins’ bravery when she shield her children from the youkai using her miko barrier. The slayer had no doubts when she agreed to leave her children in her ‘very capable hands’ as Sango put it.

Just when Sango was about to exit their grandmothers’ hut she almost crashed into an agitated Inuyasha.

Sango smiled sadly as she greeted her returning family who had the look of dread in their faces. Inuyasha told them that he smelled Kaedes’ blood, but he didn’t tell them about the scent of death. Deep down he was hoping that he was mistaken, but another part of him knew he was not. Sango hugged Kagome and even Inuyasha to his dismay. After Inuyasha said gruffly ‘cut out the mushy crap’ she hugged and kissed Miroku.

Then loveable loud mouth Inuyasha got right to the point when he said:

“What happened to Kaede!? I smell her blood…and was Sesshoumaru here when it happened!?” He said through clenched teeth trying to keep his emotion out of his voice.


Sango figured that this is as good of a time as any to tell them. Especially since all of them was looking at her expectedly. Miroku wrapped his arm around her as a form of comfort. Feeling the silent support of her husband she took a deep breath and decided to tell them the story by starting off on a more positive note:

“Well you know how you used to called Lady Kaede an ‘old hag’ well you won’t be able to call her that for along time.”

Inuyasha frowned in confusion and said:

“What the hell are you talking about Sango, stop beating around the bush and spill it already.”

Kagome elbowed Inuyasha and said:

“If you would stop being so rude and let her finish she will tell you!” She snapped.

Inuyasha growled and glared at her letting he know that he didn’t appreciate her tone or the elbowed. However he remained silent more concerned about Kaede at the moment then his hurt pride.

The gang gathered in Kaedes’ hut, Sango didn’t want to enlighten her family about what took place in front of her children. She felt that they did not need a reminder of that terrible day.

They sat cross legged around Sango as if they were camping around a fire and telling ghost stories. Which is disturbing considering the fact that Kaede could have went to the spirit world and became a ghost if it wasn’t for Sango and Sesshoumaru.

Sango conveyed everything that took place while they were gone. There was a variety of emotions displayed by each individual. Sango was for the most part sad, disappointed in herself and relieved for Kaedes’ safety. Inuyasha was furious, content and curious. He knew one of the reasons why Sesshoumaru saved whom he dubbed ‘the old hag’; it was for Rins’ sake. Inuyasha knew that Rin like the rest of them would be devastated if something were to happen to Kaede. He was curious because he had no idea how or why Tensaiga made Kaede young again. Miroku was depressed, thankful and like Inuyasha curious for the same reason. Kagome was grief stricken, happy and curious…again for the same reason. Sango was so relieved that Kaede was alive that she didn’t take too much time to think about the unusual predicament the formerly elderly miko was in. However, now that everyone has brought it to her attention and reassured her that it wasn’t her fault, she found the inquisitive part of her personality take precedence over her self-blame.

“You think we should go after them?” Kagome asked still worried about Kaede.

“No, Kaede said that she would be alright and that she wanted us to protect the village until she returns.” Sango said with a twinge of concern in her voice. She wished she could be by Kaede side as well, but she also wanted to honor Kaedes’ request.

“I think my dear Sango is correct. Kaede is wise and can handle herself. And I am sure that Sesshoumaru would not have revived her just to have it be in vain, she is well.” He said as he stroked Sango behind to lighten everyone’s’ mood. Not to mention just cope a feel. A resonating reflexive slap was heard throughout the hut.

The monk rubbed the red hand print on his cheek as he smiled and said:

“Darling, it perfectly acceptable for a husband to show his affection for his wife.” He said innocently.

“Not in front of everyone you hentai.” She hissed as she glared at him.

Kagome giggled as Inuyasha said:

“Keh, that stupid monk will never learn, but he has a point. My brother may be a pompous ass, but he always has an agenda. He revived Kaede for Rin sake and he will make sure she stays alive. They might get into some fucked up situations, but she is safe with the asshole.” He said gruffly.

Agreeing that with Kaedes’ wisdom and Sesshoumaru guard that the miko will be safe; they all headed back to Sango and Mirokus’ hut to reunite with the children. Inuyasha personally hope that the miko and the daiyoukai journey didn’t take too long. He would hate to have to be coped up in the village for an extended period of time. But the real reason he wanted her to hurry back is a fact that he will never admit out loud. Like the rest of his pack he missed their grandmothers’ presence. With their minds somewhat at ease for Kaede safety, they chatted with and soothed the children.


Scene Change Two days later:

It was midday and the hunt was on for the sword smith Totosai, Sesshoumaru just picked up his trail a few hours ago. Though Kaede was energetic as a young woman her petite stature had a hard time keeping up with Sesshoumaru as he made long strides across the forest with his lengthy legs.

In spite of Kaede get-up-and-go, she was running on low reserves. Keeping up with Sesshoumarus’ graceful yet brisk pace was very tiresome for the miko. Her obstinate streak was in overdrive, she wanted this journey completed so she could return home ASAP. Which is why she willing herself to continue, despite the burning in her legs.

There were many reasons why she wanted to return to her dwelling. One of her main incentives for wanting to go back early is because she missed her grandchildren. She missed teaching them cooking for them and their overall company. She also missed aiding the villagers with medicinal herbs and helpful advice.

Nevertheless there were other reasons why she wanted her travels with Sesshoumaru to end soon. One she couldn’t stand his obnoxious arrogant attitude. She knew Inuyasha had a big ego so it had to be hereditary, but compared to Sesshoumaru, Inuyasha was humble. According to Inuyasha Sesshoumaru was more of a pompous Lord when they were enemies then he is currently. In other words the daiyoukai was clawing at her last nerves.

‘It is mind-boggling that anyone could possible surpass the level of arrogance this Inu Lord displays. But from what I was told he was more haughtily in the past then he is in the present…Indeed very remarkable and exasperating.’

The second reason she tried to ignore was the fact that she, a shrine miko, was attracted to the youkai lord. His beauty, his power, his intelligence and his honor are just a few traits she found intriguing. His confidence was also alluring though it no was longer appealing when the daiyoukai got into his self-important mode. Then it was just plan annoying. He also had a certain noble graceful air about him that was enthralling. And though he tries to hide it, his heart has warmed some and he is protective over his pack. Sesshoumaru also seems to be fond of children. That is one of the few things they have in common, their fondness children. She couldn’t help but ogle his tall strong body as he stalked through the forest with the elegance of a gazelle and the powerful aura of a deadly predator. Then Kaede mind wondered to other aspects of the daiyoukai that ignited her curiosity…and fire. Things like ‘what would it be like to bed him?’

Her cheeked flushed every time she thought of him that way and she berated herself for having such thoughts. She was an old fashion miko and as one, she did not believe that a miko such as herself should even think about another being sexually. Another reason she rebuked her ponderings of the daiyoukai is because of their species and status. Kaede was not prejudice in the least nor was she against relationships between species, but most of those types of relationships didn’t bode well. As for their status she was a miko and he was a daiyoukai Lord, surely there would be too many complications on both sides. She thought about Inuyashas' mother and father and Inuyashas’ and her elder sister Kikyo relationships. In each case someone died and Kaede mused about these past unlucky circumstances to justify why being attracted to Sesshoumaru was a bad idea. Plus the fact that she was a mortal and he wasn’t would present more problems. She would die way before him even though she has been given a second chance at youth. Then she thought of a counter argument; Kagome and Inuyasha are mated and everything seems to be exquisite in their relationship…besides all of the bickering of course. But then again that is what married couples do, they argue.

Thinking that her reasoning was heading in the wrong direction, she continued to list the negative consequences of having a relationship with a daiyoukai. She wanted to believe that he wasn’t attracted to her in any way, but she has started to believe that her assumption was far from the truth. She saw the way he would purposely gaze at her out of the corner of his eye when she walked/ jogged by his side. She felt his eyes burn into her backside if she bent over or walked in front of him. She even saw a reflection of him licking his lips with his Inu like tongue; as he stared down at her when she was squatting in front of a stream washing her face.

Kaede didn’t know too much about the daiyoukai but she knew he could be calculating. He intended on her catching him showing his appreciation of her voluptuous form. She had the young face of an innocent girl but the wisdom of an old miko. She may not have had any personal experience with males, but she had plenty of life experience. Enough experience to know that those looks he gave her wasn’t just to annoy her; they were to let her know that he was attracted to her as well. Though she could not figure out why, as far as she knew he only recently started to tolerate humans. She never would have thought that the female of the human species would appeal to the Inu.

The miko also figured that he knew she was drawn to him as well especially since she became aroused at least three times while in his company. However, with her miko training she was able to quickly get her arousal under control. But not before his sensitive nose could pick it up.

Still trying to convince her body to stop responding to the daiyoukais’ presence she thought about many of the negative personality traits he possessed:

‘The Inu is too stubborn, proud, arrogant, possessive and calculating. At times he is cold, ruthless and sadistic…ye is also courageous, protective, honorable, intelligent, powerful and sometimes in certain dire situations his bolshie trait can be a positive part of his temperament… He is also a very exquisite looking creature with a strong baritone voice…’

She was brought out of her musings by said voice when he stopped walking and spoke:

“Rest miko, we will resume our travels when you have adequate replenish your strength.” He said calmly as they approached a somewhat opened part of the forest, a great place to camp for a while.

“Ye do not need to concern yourself (pant) Lord Sesshoumaru (pant, pant) I able to continue to travel if you wish.” She said panting. She wanted them to make haste, she wanted this trip over with.

He looked at her raising an arched eyebrow again, a gesture that seriously started to aggravate her by now. The he said:

“Your breathing is labored, your heart is beating like a humming birds wings. Moreover you are sweating profusely, now do as this Sesshoumaru commands.” He said smugly as he wrinkled his nose a bit to emphasize his point about her odor. He also made his statement as if he was one hundred percent right about her condition…which he was.

The poor miko was barely able to talk without panting or stand up. However she regained some of her energy through anger; honestly to what lengths does his domineering, arrogant, rude attitude extend?

She frowned as she glared at him with one eye that resembles his and her original hazel brown orbs.

“Nay, I will not rest because ye have commanded it, I will do so because I see fit. And if ye has a problem with my hygiene ye could have mentioned it by using tact. Now if you want me to be rid of my sweat scent perhaps you can lead me to the nearest water.” She said indignant at his earlier remarks.

Sesshoumaru shot a nasty glare back at her that could make hell freeze over but she did not back down. He growled and said:

“If you expect this Sesshoumaru to soften his words for you miko, you will be utterly disappointed. Learn your place, lest you wish to have your lips seal shut with my poison claws.” He said in a low tone, the tone she figured meant he was really irked. He did not appreciate her telling him how to speak nor was he pleased with her defiant tone.

Kaede knew the daiyoukai could tear her apart like wet paper, but she was not about to back down. Her rejuvenated youth seems to have replaced a bit of her calm demeanor with a more of a fiery one. She chuckled bitterly at her whole situation and said:

“Do ye take me for a helpless human Lord Sesshoumaru? I may be a weak human, but I can purify ye in certain places I presume you are fond off.” She spat with her hands on her hips and she looked down at his manhood to make her point. He smirked as he said:

“Feel free to try and harm that particular part of my anatomy, however this Sesshoumaru assures you, he will enjoy it.” He purred with a glint in his eyes she did not like. Did the sadistic youkai enjoy pain as much as he loved to dish it out?

The very uncomfortable miko lost some of her fire that made her oppose him moments before. She did not fear the thought of the violent acts he may comment towards her person. Yet she did fear speaking of anything of a sexual nature with him. With a shiver creeping down her spine from both apprehension and to her dismay excitement, she decided to change the subject. With fake self assurance and assertiveness she said:

“I am done listing to your dialog Lord Sesshoumaru, will ye take me to the waters to bathe or not.” She said after a deep breath to calm herself. He arched his eyebrow again at her false bravery. She spoke with confidence and held her head up high, yet he could smell self doubt and fear along with her other scents. Then Sesshoumaru thought:

‘The miko reeks of fright yet she displays fictitious poise…how vastly sweet.’

Then he turned his back towards her and said:

“Follow me.” He walked at a slower pace so they could be side by side. He wanted gaze at her form more closely. Truth be told, he rather enjoyed her scent of herbal mint mixed with the smell of sweet baked goods. Even with the sweat she smells good enough for him to him to eat. Having a dark since of humor, he felt the need purposely aggravate her. The surprisingly perverted Inu youkai smirked again as he thought:

‘Hmmm I wish to bathe as well; perhaps something can be arranged so we may bathe together.” He thought as they made their way to the cool lake.

He wasn’t going to force himself on her of course, that was not his style, but he decided to let her see what she was missing out on as a miko. After all it couldn’t hurt to tease her a bit. Besides he knew she was attracted to him as well, he could smell her lust. However the little miko was in denial, she just needed a little push from him. He thought that if he played his cards right eventually she would come around. And being the direct creature that he was he did not ‘beat around the bush’ he repeatedly let her know that he desired her.

The daiyoukai desire for the miko ran deeper then her flesh however. She was a second mother to his single child, his precious Rin. The miko died protecting Rin from a fate he no longer had the power to bring her back from. Her care for Rin was part of the reason why he was drawn to Kaede, part of the reason why her respected her now and when she was elderly. Even though he clawed at her nerves he still held a high opinion of her. Of course the daiyoukai would never admit this out loud, not now anyway.

He also liked the calm, gentle and wise attributes of her personality as well as her bravery, inner strength and her spunk. Though sometimes she could be too defiant for his taste. But she was respectful while she defied him by using his honorific. He found that most perplexing and intriguing. She was also a curvy full figured woman he could sink his teeth into. So he figured since she had to take a break, why not amuse himself and bathe at the same time. Then they could continue on their way to meet with the sword smith that will ruin the high spirits he will be in after his fun teasing the miko. They will continue their travels to meet up with Totosai…


TBC


A/N: Next time Tension in the Lake...