Passion

Disclaimer: I don’t own the characters, only the plot.

A/N: Somehow this has got out of control. My notes for this chapter comprise two sentences. Writing this chapter I have now reached the mark of 50 (!!!) pages. This d**** chapter developed a mind of its own and it kept going on, and on, and on… I’ve split it up in two parts, so chapter 7 forms a unity with this chapter

A little warning for the lemons in this chapter: you might find the one or other slightly … unusual. Ahem.

Enjoy! :-)


Chapter VI – To The West Part I

Time passed as it always did, and Kagome began living two different lives: one at daylight, together with her friends; another one at night with her demonic lover. As more and more days and nights went by she came to feel that she lived her real live at night.

He called her again the second night after their last meeting. Kagome was still awake when she felt the tug on her soul. Instantly her heartbeat sped up and waves of liquid heat rushed through her veins. She trembled in breathless expectancy.

She slowly turned her head and peered over at her friends. They were all fast asleep, even Inu Yasha. Nevertheless she moved cautiously as she crept out of her sleeping bag. She slipped quickly into her shoes and pulled a sweater over her shirt, since the night was cold. She stood for a while, waiting for the call to guide her way. Soon she felt it again, and with a smile on her lips, Kagome set off into the appointed direction.

Just like two nights ago she walked as if in a trance. Her eyes were half-closed; the smile lingered on her lips. With each step she felt the heat inside of her rising. Soon her whole body ached out of raw, wanton desire for her lover.

The call led her from the path into the wild part of the mountain. It was not an easy way to go. More than once she stumbled over small boulders hidden by brush, or rabbit-holes. Yet she did not mind; all she could think of was she would see him, feel him again!

She had not slept well last night. Her restless, aroused body had been yearning for his touch. When she had finally fallen asleep, she dreamt of him, and those dreams had only heightened her need. She had woken up, just before reaching the peak, her body throbbing with unsatisfied longing. It made her cry in disappointment, which had unfortunately roused Inu Yasha from his light slumber. It had taken her some time to convince him she was okay and had only had a bad dream. He had eyed her suspiciously, but said nothing more.

Kagome slid down a grassy slope and into the small grove beyond it. A crystal clear river ran next to her path, the trees whispered in the soft breeze over her head, and the pale moon watched her progress to the heart of the grove.

Her steps became faster and she hurried forwards. She knew he was ahead! He was close now!

Kagome’s heart beat a mad rhythm in her throat and she had problems getting enough air into her lungs. Her knees grew week, so she rather stumbled than walked. Her skin was hot and covered with a thin layer of sweat. She felt like dying if she would not reach him soon and feel his lips and fingers on her body.

But he did not let her die. Presently the river led her to a pond beneath the shadows of the trees. A few stars were reflected on its dark, calm surface. On the ground around the pond grew moss, littered with tiny, sweet-smelling flowers. Right in front of her stood her silver god, his searing, golden eyes watching her coming closer.

Kagome stopped and stared at him. Again he wore nothing more than a silky, white kimono. He seemed to glow in the dark, the pale light of the moon highlighting silver-blue spots in his hair. She was sure he was more beautiful each time she saw him. The fire of passion that had been rising up inside of her consumed her. She ran over to him, literally pouncing on him.

His arm was around her immediately, pressing her close to his hard body as their lips met in a wild, burning kiss. His tongue fiercely demanded entry into her mouth and Kagome was only too glad to let it in. Their kiss became even wilder, their tongues duelled in heated battle; she felt as if he was devouring her.

She heard him growl and shivered at the hungry sound. Her knees gave way and she fell against him, her shaking hands desperately searching their way through his clothes. Within the blink of an eye she was on the ground, he on top of her, viciously tearing at her clothes.

She struggled to help him undress her, but at the same time tried to undress him. He was far more successful, though, and within seconds she was naked and his hot lips burned a way down her neck to her breasts. She panted and bucked up her hips, still tearing at his kimono. A groan escaped her lips as she felt his obvious arousal.

He sucked one rosy bud into his mouth, flicking his tongue against it. Kagome moaned and tangled her fingers into his soft, silver hair. She arched her body up to come closer to his touch.

His searing lips moved from one mound to the other, kissing and caressing, and he nipped at it with sharp fangs. They pierced her skin and two deep red pearls of blood formed, looking like precious rubies against her velvety flesh. Kagome hissed in pain, but the feeling quickly changed and she moaned in delight as his rough tongue licked up the blood.

Sesshomaru growled, the taste of her sweet blood heating up his desires to a painful extent. He could not take it slowly; he needed to be inside of her warm body right now. Forcefully he pushed her legs open and settled between them, only the thin silk of his kimono separating him from her now. He felt her readiness through the cloth and groaned as her legs wrapped around his waist, drawing him closer to his destination.

He raised his head and kissed her again deeply, exploring every inch of her sweet mouth while his trembling fingers pulled away the offending silk. Slowly he trailed one long, slender finger through the folds of her womanhood, over the small, hidden bud and down to the entrance of her body. The finger slipped inside her body and Sesshomaru revelled in the warm, wet heat of her core. His thumb brushed over the small bundle of nerves. Kagome moaned into his mouth.

She dug her nails into his shoulder and rocked her hips against his fingers, panting as she felt his erection brush against her thigh. Her legs tightened around him and her hands trailed down his muscular back to his behind, trying to press him closer to her.

He groaned and quickly pulled his hand back. Kagome felt shortly disappointed, but then he slammed into her and she threw her head back and screamed her delight to the heavens.

Sesshomaru answered with a husky growl and began moving in hard, urgent thrusts. He captured her lips into another devouring kiss, grabbed her hips tightly and increased the force of his movements.

Kagome whimpered and clung to him, bucking up her hips to meet his hard thrusts. His mouth ravished hers, his strong arm pressed her against his body, and his deep pushes drove her into frenzy. Her fingers dug into his firm arse; she trailed kisses over his jaw and neck, moving upwards to his ear. Her tongue darted in and he growled, biting softly into her shoulder. Kagome laughed breathlessly. She was on fire, was wild, and she needed more.

‘Faster,’ she whispered throatily, and with a growl so deep she felt her bones vibrate he complied.

Sesshomaru’s grasp on her slender body tightened and he began thrusting into her with demonic speed. His female trembled and moaned beneath him, her midnight blue eyes wide and ecstatic. Her face was flushed and she gasped and raked her claws over his back and sides. She was a beautiful sight, and he shivered, his release close.

He felt her inner muscles flex around him and knew she was nearing the peak. Rapturously he watched as her eyes fell close and her head sank back, revealing her throat. He plunged down, pressing his lips on the sensitive skin and grazing it with his fangs.

She gave a soft, mewling sound and tried to follow his rapid movements. He groaned and increased his speed again. Her inner muscles contracted around him, he heard her wild, satisfied scream, and the next second he exploded inside of her.

Panting heavily he slumped over her, the force of their combined orgasm shaking him to the bones. Cradling her against his chest, he lay back and turned, so that he would not crush her fragile body. With a contented growl he buried his face in her hair.

They lay without moving until their breaths and heartbeats had calmed down. Kagome sighed and snuggled closer to him, placing a soft kiss on his chest. He growled affectionately and she looked up into his face. He was watching her through half-closed eyes, an utterly satisfied expression on his beautiful face. A soft smile lingered on his lips as he bent his head down and kissed her.

It was a sweet, tender kiss, and Kagome felt warmth rising inside of her. She closed her arms around him and answered his kiss with all her heart.

Soon their kisses became fervent again. The warmth inside of Kagome turned into searing heat and they lost themselves again in the feeling of skin on skin, demanding kisses and hungry touches. Once more they climbed the heights of passion, slowly this time, exploring each others’ body to the least. After reaching the peak together they fell asleep, each wrapped in the other’s embrace.

When the new day dawned Sesshomaru woke Kagome up and told her it was time to go back to her friends. Reluctantly she agreed and, after hastily washing herself in the cold water of the pond, she dressed to go back. Sighing she noticed that another pair of bra and knickers had gone the way of all transient things. She shook her head and turned to Sesshomaru, telling him she was ready to go. He took her hand and brought her back to the mountain path. Just as last time he kissed her goodbye and told her to go.

Kagome traipsed back to her camp, slipped out of her shoes and, after pulling on a new pair of knickers, she snuggled into her sleeping back. A smile lingered on her face as she fell asleep again.


* ~ * ~ * ~ *


During the next three days, Kagome and her friends kept heading north into a mountain range where a terrible demon was rumoured to have taken residence. From the stories they had been told about that demon by villagers they assumed it might be Naraku or one of his spawns. They travelled at high speed because everybody was eager to find and kill the demon, whether it was Naraku himself or not. They probably might get another shard. So they hurried, and this time nobody complained about their haste.

The atmosphere within their group was cheerful, but it was a superficial and forced cheerfulness. Underlying was a certain tension and they all felt it. They tried to act towards each other as normal as possible, yet were very cautious in their dealings with a certain hanyou. Nobody ever mentioned his lapse again or spoke of Sesshomaru again within his earshot. His sudden, unexplainable outburst had scared them quite a lot and none wanted a repetition of it.

The evenings at the campfire were quiet. There was no teasing between them, no laughing, and no perverted monk groping the girls. Even Shippo resigned from annoying Inu Yasha.

Kagome felt very guilty. She knew herself to be the cause of that uneasiness, even though the tensed atmosphere was triggered off by Inu Yasha’s tantrum. But this had been caused by Sesshomaru following her to the well. Why exactly he had followed her she did not know, only one thing she knew for sure: had she resisted him the first time, none of this would have happened. So, Inu Yasha’s outburst and the uncomfortable atmosphere were entirely her own fault.

Reason agreed on that and kept telling her what she ought to do. It talked incessantly, pointing out to her the mistakes of her actions and the misery of her situation, advising her most fervently to ignore Instinct as well as Sesshomaru’s calls. Underneath its voice Instinct whispered to her, invoking images in her mind and heating up her yearning for the demon. Though this was not necessary at all; her body seemed to be on constant readiness.

With Reason and Instinct working on her, he was always on her mind. She thought of him every waking moment and dreamt of him when she slept. It frightened her and excited her as well, and she knew she could never forget him, whatever would happen in the future.

I will never be free from him again, she thought, wondering why she felt no apprehension against this consideration.

It goes without talking that Reason did not take this well.


* ~ * ~ * ~ *


Early on the fourth day of their travel Inu Yasha suddenly stopped dead in his tracks. His eyes narrowed and he sniffed.

‘What is it, Inu Yasha?’ asked Miroku. ‘Do you smell a demon?’

‘Yeah,’ Inu Yasha growled, dangerously low. ‘Naraku!’

He leapt forwards and ran up the mountain and disappeared around a bend in the path.

‘Inu Yasha! Wait!’ Miroku shouted, but Inu Yasha did not look back. ‘Quick!’ the monk called to the girls and set off after the hanyou.

In an instant, Kirara was at his side, having transformed into her larger self, with the girls and Shippo on her back.

‘What worries you, Miroku-sama?’ Kagome shouted.

‘Don’t you think it strange, Kagome-sama, that Naraku should, of all places, be hiding here in this parts of the mountains?’

‘You think it’s not Naraku?’ Sango cut in.

‘Rather one of his spawns, setting another trap for us.’

As he panted out these words they reached the bend and rushed around it, but then came to a skidding halt. In front of them stood Inu Yasha, Tessaiga transformed in his hands, staring ahead at the demon that blocked the road.

It seemed to be a giant snake with no end but two heads, or maybe two knotted snakes, it was not possible to tell from the mass of slimy, scaly, shifting parts. One head was red-eyed, the other black-eyed, and they were both hissing at Inu Yasha. The black-eyed head noticed the newcomers and turned to hiss at them. The demon – or demons – did not move otherwise.

Miroku stepped over to Inu Yasha and regarded the monster. ‘That’s not Naraku,’ he stated, somewhat questioningly.

‘Keh, I know, but it stinks like him!’ retorted Inu Yasha.

Kagome and Sango slid from Kirara’s back and came closer. Inu Yasha glared at them over his shoulder. ‘Stand back,’ he snapped.

Both snake-heads had, at the mentioning of Naraku, turned towards Miroku. ‘Naraku!’ they hissed now simultaneously and the group started and stared at them.

‘Where isssss that bassstard?’ The heads stared hypnotizing at Miroku. ‘Tell ussss where he issss!’

Everybody blinked. ‘Huh?’ summed Shippo aptly up.

‘What’s this, you snake-shit?’ growled Inu Yasha irritably. ‘You smell like that bastard! What are you? Why’re you hanging around here and ask us where he is? Tell me!’ He pointed Tessaiga at the demon.

The heads hissed, ‘We were oncccce part of Naraku’sssssss body, but he kicked usssssssss out and left ussssss on our own. Bassssssstard! We want revenggggggge. Ssssssso, dog-boy, if you want to ssssssssave your life, tell usssssssss where he issssss!’

‘I don’t know it! Keh, and even if I did, I wouldn’t tell you, snoopy-snakey.’ Inu Yasha stood on tiptoes, ready to attack. He felt the blood surge hot through his body. He sensed a fight ahead and yearned for beating something up to vent out his frustrations and to prove to himself he was not beaten so easily.

The snake-demon hissed furiously and uncoiled slowly. Inu Yasha did not wait for this to happen but jumped at it and dealt the entwined body a blow with his sword. It cut deeply through the scales, and black blood oozed out of the wound. The demon hissed in pain and fury, and with alarming speed both heads shot forwards, mouths open, to plunge their sharp, poisoned teeth into the hanyou.

Inu Yasha was able to dodge one head, but the other managed to scratch his right shoulder. He growled again, clenched his fist, and punched the offensive head. It flung back and collided with the second head that had started another attack. For one second the necks seemed to be knotted, but the demon rallied quickly and attacked again.

The others had meanwhile prepared themselves to help their friend. Kagome had her bow ready and one arrow pointed at the snake. Sango held her boomerang in position, ready to throw it when needed. Miroku had gripped his staff tighter, watching the demon through narrowed eyes.

The snake’s heads shot at Inu Yasha, snarling and dangerous, but he dodged both and with one swing of Tessaiga he cut off one. Blood bubbled out of the injured body, and the remaining head shrieked in pain. Inu Yasha made a move to cut off the other head, too, but was stopped.

‘Inu Yasha!’ shouted Miroku. ‘Don’t!’

The hanyou scowled at him. ‘What’s up, monk! You feel sorry for that shit?’

‘Be reasonable! That demon was part of Naraku and knew his thoughts! It has to know at least some of his plans! It would be silly to kill such an opportunity!’

Inu Yasha snorted but stood back. The remaining head of the demon was still howling, its body writhing on the rocky path and splaying black blood everywhere. Sango and Kagome had retreated further to get away from the mess. Shippo hid behind Kagome.

They watched the demon until its movements became slower and it raised its head to glare at Inu Yasha. Before it was able to say or do anything, Tessaiga was pressed against one side of its neck.

‘You were part of Naraku, eh? So, you’re the one to know where he’s gone. Spill it!’ Golden eyes glared into red ones. ‘Tell me, or else …’ The sword was pressed a bit harder against the scaled body.

‘Or elssssssse what, dog-boy?’ the demon hissed maliciously. Now that the other head was gone the voice sounded less spooky, but more evil. ‘You kill ussssssss? Wouldn’t you kill usssssss, too, if we told you?’

‘Hah! So you know!’ Inu Yasha grinned.

The snake-face managed to look furious at itself. ‘We tell you nossssssing!’

‘Can’t we do something?’ whispered Kagome, as the demon and Inu Yasha started a stare-down duel. Sango shrugged and opened her mouth to answer, but at the sound of Kagome’s voice the head had turned.

The eyes glowed in a brighter red. ‘Sssssshikon ssssshardsssssss!’

With an agility that nobody expected the demon slid towards her. ‘Give me the sssssssshardsssss, human girl!’

‘Hey, I’m your opponent!’ Inu Yasha yelled and jumped at it, while Miroku screamed again, ‘Don’t kill it, Inu Yasha!’

Kagome had started at the sudden turn of events and tried to aim at the demon to shoot it, but it was too quick. Sango took a few steps away from her friend and lashed out with her boomerang just as Inu Yasha grabbed the demon’s neck. The sharp bone of the weapon created another deep cut in the snake’s body. It shrieked again and tried to look round for the offender, but two hands wrapped around its neck and kept it in place.

‘Who wassssssss that?! Who damaged our body?’ the hissing voice howled, and the demon rolled its eyes. Although Sango was clear in its view the eyes did not notice her.

‘Huh? Can’t it see me?’ she asked surprised.

The eyes fixed on her. ‘Another human girl!’

‘Obviously not until you spoke, Sango,’ said Miroku and walked up to Inu Yasha, who had problems to keep his grip on the neck. The demon was writhing underneath his hands and the scales were slippery with shed blood. ‘Don’t throttle it, Inu Yasha.’

‘Keh,’ the hanyou panted. ‘Don’t need your advice!’

‘Ssssshardsssssss!’ hissed the snake-demon. ‘Give me the ssssssssshhardssss! We need the ssssssssshardsssssss! Naraku will come for them and we can have our revenggggggge!’

Inu Yasha shook the body he held impatiently. ‘Where is he?!’

‘SSSSSSSSSHHARDSSSS!’ howled the demon, foam around the mouth. Its eyes rolled back.

Kagome shivered and receded until she stood with her back against the rockface. The demon seemed to have gone mad if that was possible for a demon. A shiver ran down her spine and she felt nauseous. A small paw slipped into her hand.

‘Scaaary,’ whispered Shippo. She nodded, her eyes trained on the sight in front of her.

The still squirming giant-snake, the remaining head steadied by Inu Yasha’s hold on the neck, blood everywhere from its several injuries. Miroku and Sango at Inu Yasha’s side, ready to act if the demon should break free. They were questioning it about Naraku’s whereabouts, but the snake only kept on hissing.

In the end, it did not matter much, because they got their answer from its snarling and shrieking. ‘Sssshikon sssshardssss, need sssshardssss, mussst have ssshardssss! Mussst get ssssstronger! Mussst go into the Wessssst! Musssst find Naraku before he findssss more sssshardssss!’

At that point, the shard-hunters exchanged surprised glances. The West? Naraku had gone to the West? There seemed to be more shards? Miroku tried to get further details, but the demon did not seem to hear him or know more. Inu Yasha lost patience. His fingers tightened, a loud crack was heard and then the hissing ceased.

He let the now lifeless head fall and looked at the others. ‘Well, what are we waiting for? To the West! Find Naraku and more shards!’

Kagome had started and begun to tremble when she heard the demon talking about the West. She nearly laughed at herself for reacting so strongly when only hearing the cardinal point of his domain! For her reaction surely was beyond any reasonable explanation. The mere mentioning of the West had sent jolts of electricity through her body. Her knees had grown weak and her stomach fluttered; deep inside of her a small knot of heat formed, and her heart had indeed behaved very unruly again.

She regarded her hanyou-friend who was standing with glinting eyes above the dead demon. He had news of Naraku’s whereabouts as well as news about possible shards. Kagome was happy that they had a new clue to follow, but even more so because Inu Yasha was already ahead with his thoughts and far too busy to take notice of the state she was in.

To the West, he had said, and Kagome had to suppress a groan. The flames of desire had flared up until she was sure Inu Yasha had to take notice of either her smell or her flushed face. But neither he nor the others perceived her unbalanced behaviour. Inwardly Kagome felt very nearly thankful to Naraku for diverting all her companions’ thoughts from anything but him.

Reason chastised her and Instinct giggled, until she told both of them to shut up.

They set off immediately, hurrying down the mountain to find a way to the West. Kagome was still shaky on her legs and stumbled every now and then. She did her best not to fall and thus rouse the attention of the others, but it was very hard. They were going to the West, to his domain … Something from deep inside her soul told her she could not step across his borders and remain the person she was. Something would happen. Worried as well as excited Kagome wondered what that might be.


* ~ * ~ * ~ *


Kagome felt the now familiar tug at her soul again that night. She gasped, then shivered as her body instantaneously reacted to the promise of another passionate night that lay in his call.

She did not move for a while, only felt. Felt her heart racing, her stomach flutter and curl, felt desire pulsate through her body with every beat of her heart, felt the liquid heat pool deep down inside of her, and listened to her ragged breath.

The next call shot through her like a lightning and she moaned, clapping her hand over her mouth and looking at her friends. But they did not notice; they were all asleep. Shippo’s light snore and Kirara’s twitching tails were the only sound and movement from them. Kagome hurriedly wriggled out of her sleeping bag and got up. Her head felt dizzy and shivers ran uncontrollably through her.

If this gets any stronger I’ll collapse, she thought wryly.

The call pulled on her again. She turned and started walking into the direction it came from. With each step she took the flames inside of her burned higher. Her heart was pounding in her chest, her breath little more than small sobs of fierce longing. The tips of her breast budded and became over-sensitive. Liquid heat pooled at the entrance of her body. Each step intensified her desire as walking caused a delicious, painful friction between her legs.

Kagome moaned, imagining it was not the seam of her knickers that rubbed over her clit, but an elegant, clawed finger. Her breath hitched in her throat and she had to stop, gasping for air. This was no good. She had to stop thinking such things if she ever wanted to get to him; stop thinking, or get out of her knickers.

With a sudden resolve, Kagome slipped quickly out of them and stuffed them into the pocket of her skirt. No more silly seams that did what they should not do! Besides, if she did not wear her knickers, she saved them from being shred.

As she walked on, the rubbing lessened, but it was a strange feeling of walking around with no knickers on. She felt so … voluptuous. Another shiver ran down her spine and she hoped she would reach him soon.

She did not have to go far before she felt his presence. His aura seemed to reach out for her and envelope her. Kagome gasped, feeling as if lava instead of blood was running through her veins. She was hot throughout, trembling and panting, and she hurried forwards as fast as her shaky knees would carry her.

The nearly invisible path she was following through the savage part of the mountain led her along a sheer cliff and she heard the echo of falling water. Finally, the path wound round the mountain; the rockface retreated and opened into a valley. On her right there was a waterfall that tumbled over the cliff and fell down into a large pool at her feet. Its water glistened in the silvery moonlight like a veil of precious silk.

He stood next to the pond, looking up to her. His white form blended with the silver behind him and Kagome blinked, trying to make sure this was not an illusion. But then no illusion could look so beautiful or make her blood run faster. Nobody was able to conjure up such a smile. He held out his hand to her and Kagome hurried down the path and into his arm.

It closed tightly around her as she threw her arms around his neck. Their lips met and Kagome moaned in pure bliss as she felt his tongue slip into her mouth. She opened hers and tilted her head back to give him better access. He seized the opportunity, deepening their kiss. His tongue challenged hers and drew it into his mouth. A bit shy at first Kagome began to explore him, feeling his fangs graze over her lips.

Her hands slipped under the hem of his kimono and spread over his shoulders. How she loved to feel his hard muscles and silken skin under her hands! She shivered and pressed herself closer to him. Something hard strained against her waist and she moaned, rubbing her hips against it.

He groaned and pulled his lips from her mouth in a hot trail down her neck. His hand gently followed the curve of her hips down her leg, and up again. Closing his long fingers over one cheek he began massaging it.

Kagome’s head fell back and she closed her eyes and let the waves of desire wash over her. She felt his heart beating under her palm and rubbed one nipple with her fingertips, tangling her other hand into his hair.

He drew in a sharp breath and jerked his head up to kiss her forcefully. His hand abandoned the cheek and moved farther until the tips of his fingers touched the hot, moist entrance to her body. He stiffened in surprise as his advance was not blocked by her knickers, and then moved so fast Kagome had only time to draw in breath for a surprised shout before she was lying on the ground, he on top of her, slamming hard and fast into her soft core.

She cried in surprise and bliss. Wrapping her arms and legs around him, she moved her hips in time with his thrusts. She did not notice the hard ground beneath her exposed flesh or the pebbles piercing her skin. All she felt were his searing lips on hers, his hard body pressing her down, and his deep thrusts. Within moments her body was tensing as she reached the peak. She moaned and grabbed his head to deepen the kiss as the first wave of release rushed through her. Her body shuddered, and she cried in ecstasy, leaving the world behind and entering the heaven of fulfilment. After two more wild thrusts he followed her there.

Slowly, Kagome came back to earth. She was lying on a very uncomfortable rock with the heavy body of her demon-lover on top of her, pressing her down. He was still panting hard, and she felt his hot breath on her neck. It sent tingles down her spine. Smiling in satisfaction, she wrapped her arms tighter around him. His heart pounded against her chest, and he was trembling in her arms.

Kagome kissed his ear. ‘Who would have thought you’d react like this,’ she whispered teasingly.

He growled exhaustedly. ‘Bitch.’

At her soft laughter he raised his head and turned it slightly to look at her. Kagome held her breath as he opened his eyes. They were glowing deeply golden and were very soft, almost tender. Her heart clenched. He is so beautiful… She trailed her hands through his hair, marvelling at how the silken strands felt between her fingers.

Sesshomaru watched her out of half-closed eyes. Her face was flushed and her deep blue eyes sparkled. Her lips were wet and swollen from his kisses. She was breathing satisfaction. He smiled and kissed her tenderly on her sweet lips, before he pulled her in a tight embrace and lay back.

After a while Kagome began to feel the cold from the stone very distinctly. Furthermore, there was a very pointed pebble pressing against her backside. She wriggled to find a more comfortable position, but without success. She looked at Sesshomaru, who had cracked an eye open.

‘Sorry to bother you, but this stone is really hard, you know,’ she told him.

His lips twitched. ‘Indeed.’

She got ready to glare at him, but he stood up in a quick, fluid motion and held his hand out for her; his kimono hang loosely open.

‘If this place is not to your liking, we had better find one that suits you more.’ She could have sworn he was laughing at her, but neither his face nor his voice betrayed any emotions.

Kagome shrugged and decided it would be pointless to start an argument over this. She would very much like to find a softer spot to lie down. So, she took his hand and allowed him to lift her up.

He did not release her hand, but held it gently, and led her to the waterfall and then, to her surprise, to a hidden cave behind it. Blinking with amazement, Kagome looked around. The ground was covered in white sand, and the walls and roof of the cavern sparkled, emitting a silvery light. At the end of the cave there was a gentle slope, and when she looked down she found to her delight a small, bubbling hot spring. The roar of the falling water was dulled and the cavern was very comfy.

With a smile, Kagome turned to Sesshomaru, who stood a step behind her. ‘This is really a nice place.’

He did not answer, and evidently he had not at all heard what she had said. His eyes were red and fixed on her behind. Kagome blushed.

‘Um, Sesshomaru, what –’

‘You are bleeding.’ His voice was husky and deeper than usual.

Kagome blinked. What was he talking of? She did not have her period, so where was she bleeding? Her eyes widened as he stepped closer and knelt down. He lifted the hem of her skirt and gazed at her back. Kagome blushed harder and tried to get away from him, but he wrapped his arm around her waist and held her back. Then he leaned closer, his face vanishing from her sight, and she wondered what he was doing. She nearly jumped as she felt his tongue licking over one cheek.

Kagome gasped at the sensation, and gasped again as heat pooled low in her body. She closed her eyes, and a shiver ran through her as he continued his ministrations. Hm, those pebbles must’ve cut me …

Slowly his tongue lapped up the blood on the small cuts; afterwards it trailed downwards and inwards. Kagome moaned softly and unconsciously opened her legs. A low cry escaped her parted lips as she felt his tongue at the entrance to her body. It dipped in, and her knees buckled. Had his arm not hold her up she would have fallen.

Kagome gripped his arm tightly, feeling the tensed muscles through the thin silk. She moaned as his tongue circled around the secret opening before it darted in. She opened her legs further, allowing him better access, and he began licking and gently nibbling at the sweet, wet folds of her womanhood.

Liquid heat poured out of her. Sesshomaru growled delightedly and lapped it up, relishing its taste and intoxicating scent. He heard her pant and sob as he flicked the tip of his tongue over her most tender spot. She was trembling and started rocking her hips.

He growled again and bit into her soft thigh, drawing more blood. The female moaned and dug her claws deeper into his arm as he lapped up the blood. Its coppery tang was like a drug to his sensitive nerves, and the arousal he tasted in it drove him into frenzy. His own blood was boiling with desire and his need for her became painful.

Quickly he got up, eliciting a small sound of protest from her. She looked at him over her shoulder, her eyes dark and clouded with lust. He pressed a quick, searing kiss on her lips, then shed his kimono and pulled down her skirt.

She stepped out of it, pulling her shirt over her head and quickly opening her bra. Soon she stood in front of him in all her naked beauty, blushing under his heated gaze. He kissed her again before he turned her round and pressed her down to her knees.

Kagome knelt obediently, lucky that she did not have to struggle to keep standing anymore. Vaguely she noticed that the sand below her knees was warm, but then a strong hand forced her down on all fours. She whimpered, knowing what was coming. Spreading her legs she laid her arms on the ground and her brow on her arm. She felt his arm wind around her waist to keep her steady, and then he plunged deeply into her.

She cried out, and Sesshomaru bent over her back to kiss her shoulder. He started moving and each thrust elicited a quiet moan from her. It was a sweet, fascinating melody in his ears. He sped up his movements, the female underneath him trembling and straining up to meet his thrusts. He growled and pressed his lips on her neck, impaling his fangs into her soft flesh. With all his strength he fought down the urge to mark her here and now. But he needed her consent and she had not given it yet, so he had to hold back.

He felt her inner muscles tighten around him and sped up his movements once again, slamming harder and faster into her hot core. The cave was filled with the sounds of his deep growls, her soft mewling groans, and the slapping of flesh against flesh.

Then the female threw her head back and cried in rapture, her inner muscles flexing rhythmically around him. The demon shoved himself inside of her until he was buried completely and bucked his hips. This last movement blew him off and he fell down, taking her with him. With great effort he managed to roll off her and came to lie next to her.

Tangled they lay in the soft, warm sand and from the heights of passion they drifted gently into deep sleep.

Sesshomaru was the first to rouse from his trance. He felt Kagome’s warm body snuggled close to his and smiled faintly. It was nice to lie next to her and hold her close. For a while he simply lay there, his eyes shut, revelling in the feeling of his chosen female at his side.

After a while he opened his eyes and, carefully not to wake her up, he turned her around to watch her face. Her thick, black lashes rested on her soft cheeks, her rosy lips were slightly parted, and she was breathing softly. A faint flush tinged her cheeks. In her sleep she still looked innocent like a child, though she was neither innocent nor a child anymore.

He raised his hand and trailed one clawed finger over her lips, her jaw, the slender ridge of her nose and her brows before he tangled his hand into her raven-black hair. He pulled some silken strands over her shoulder so that they came to lie on her chest. His thumb brushed over one rosy nipple and it immediately budded. Laughing silently, he leaned back and settled to watch her in her sleep, marvelling at the fact that the fates had chosen her of all females. Inu Yasha’s human wench …

Sesshomaru’s lips twitched as he imagined the look on his brother’s face if he could see ‘his’ wench now. He would love to tell Inu Yasha just what exactly happened on that day he had saved her from the demons, with all the interesting details. Sesshomaru laughed again. The hanyou would explode with rage, which was exactly the reason he had better keep this secret until Kagome was out of Inu Yasha’s reach and out of danger. The thought of his future mate in danger sobered him and he sighed. He really hoped he would get her consent soon so that he could mark her and take her away from his idiot half-brother.

Kagome stirred and thus roused him from his thoughts. Enchanted, he watched her wake up. Her lashes fluttered and her eyes opened slowly. The deep blue orbs gazed dreamily into space. He watched amusedly how recognition crept into them. She blushed and her eyes flew up to his face. She saw him watching her and flushed a deeper shade of red.

He bent down a bit and whispered in her ear, ‘Good morning, dear. Did you sleep well?’

A shiver ran over her body. ‘Y-yes, thank you.’

Sesshomaru watched through half-closed eyes as she sat up and looked around, the blush fading from her cheeks. Her gaze fell on the hot spring and she smiled.

‘I’ll go and try that hot spring,’ she told him cheerfully over her shoulder and got up. Her dark hair fell down her back and over her breasts; it concealed nothing, but highlighted the most interesting parts of her anatomy.

When he did not answer she looked back and caught him staring at her. Her violent blush returned, and she crossed her arms over her chest.

‘It is a bit late to be shy now, dear,’ Sesshomaru said softly and smiled when she glared at him.

Kagome huffed and turned around, walking to the small pool. She dipped her toe into it. The water was hot and she sighed in contentment as she lowered herself into the steaming pond. As soon as she was chin-deep in water, she giggled. The bubbles tickled her.

She felt the water move behind her as Sesshomaru joined her in the spring. She flashed him a radiant smile and started washing herself as best as she could without soap. The demon lay back against the edge of the pond and closed his eyes, listening to her soft humming and occasional giggles.

When humming and giggling ceased, he cracked his eyes open to look at her. She was staring thoughtfully at him, and when she noticed he looked at her, she came to him, stopping closely in front of him. Her blue eyes were serious.

‘Sesshomaru, why do you call me?’ she asked him. ‘You claim to hate humans, and from all I’ve heard about you I think you really do. So, why me? Because I am human!’

‘Yes,’ he drawled. ‘You are human.’

‘So why? Why??’ She leaned closer and stared straight into his eyes as if she was searching there for an answer.

Leisurely, he reached out for her. She flinched a bit, but blinked in surprise as he brushed her dark hair back behind her ear. His hand came to lie on her shoulder and glided gently down her back until it reached her waist. He trailed the hand to the small of her back and pulled her closer to him. She gasped and her eyes widened as she felt his arousal hard against her soft core.

When she was pressed flush against him, he slowly raised his hand and put one finger under her chin, lifting her face up to his. Holding her eyes he bent down. As his lips touched hers her lids fluttered close. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and deepened the kiss, brushing his lips over hers and opening her mouth with his tongue. She complied readily and answered his kiss. Her small hands trailed down his body and he shivered.

Kagome felt him tremble under her touch. She moaned softly, all thoughts and questions forgotten, and slipped one hand between their bodies, closing her fingers around his growing erection. He groaned and bucked his hips against her hand. He groaned louder as she began stroking him in long, steady moves.

He was like hot steel in her hand, covered with velvet. Kagome felt his blood pulse under her hands. His trembling grew stronger as she sped up the strokes. He growled deep in his throat, a sound that made her shiver with lust.

She let go of him and he hissed in protest, but was silenced as she straddled him, slowly easing herself down on him. As he slid into her hot, welcoming body he groaned and bit into her lower lip. Kagome whimpered. She laid her hands on his shoulders and started moving, a bit unsure at first but soon her courage grew and she became bolder, pushing her hips forcefully against his.

Sesshomaru let her go on until he could not hold back any longer. Growling throatily, he wrapped his arm around her and began thrusting upwards. Kagome tilted her head back in bliss and clung to his shoulders for support, moaning as his searing lips ravaged her sensitive breasts. She met every thrust with vigour, and it was not long until they once more found sweet release.


* ~ * ~ * ~ *


The next day, the Inu-tai found a way that led them west. They descended from the mountains and walked through even, cultivated land. They came across villages where they stopped and asked for information concerning Naraku or shards. But for several days they heard nothing that would help them.

After quite a few dreary days of searching for Naraku, they were in one village finally told of a strong evil aura passing by some days ago. This could only mean the dark hanyou! Inu Yasha was relieved to have a new hint, for during the last days, when they had got no news of Naraku, he had started doubting the information received from the snake-demon. He had feared they had been lured the wrong way, which he did not take lightly. He had been irritable all day, pushing his friends to the outmost, and cursing their ‘slowness’. They bore it with patience. At least Naraku seemed to have banished all thoughts of Sesshomaru from his head!

Kagome, however, felt quite the opposite. She could think of almost nothing else but Sesshomaru. The bite on the inside of her left leg had throbbed with pain for one day, which had made walking highly uncomfortable. Yet, she had cherished it, because it came from him and felt like a sign that marked her as his own. Besides this rather unwelcome souvenir, her body reminded her of him in a sweeter, highly unnerving way with rapid heartbeat, voluptuous flutters in her stomach, and tingling shivers running through her body.

She did not really need these reminders, though, for she spent almost every night in his arm. During the long hours of passionate lovemaking the memory of him, his kisses and his touches, was burnt forever into her mind, as was the feeling of his warm, strong body next to hers when she woke up in the morning. No, Kagome could not think of anybody else but Sesshomaru. It was just her luck that nobody had the least suspicion.

In the first village they had been told the evil aura had been heading straight west, and so they went that way, too. From then on, the news of Naraku did not cease. In every village they passed, the inhabitants had felt something evil and were able to tell them the direction. The shard-hunters made good progress in their pursuit, and were only detained once when Miroku promised the beautiful daughter of the town’s eldest to bring back her father.

The old gentleman had been kidnapped by bandits that now demanded a high ransom for him. The community was not very rich and could not pay the sum. The bandits had threatened to kill the old man, and though the villagers loved their leader, they could do nothing to help him. The young lady was desperate, and it is a well known fact that Miroku cannot resist a beauty in distress: he has to play the knight in shining armour.

A very annoyed Inu Yasha in their wake, they set out to find the bandits and bring the old man back. It took them two days to do so, and when they were finally back on track they had to deal with a thoroughly pissed hanyou, who ruthlessly pushed them on. Soon, they were all exhausted from the strenuous pace Inu Yasha forced upon them, and when they set down for camp at night none stayed up for long. They quickly ate something, discussed shortly what they would do tomorrow, and went to sleep. Everybody fell asleep very quickly and did not stir the whole night, except Kagome.

Her friends’ nightly routine met her own purpose wonderfully. After they had fallen asleep, she would get up silently and prepare for Sesshomaru to call her. She was very happy that she had the opportunity to do so.

She had begun to prepare for the meetings after the ‘knickers-incident’. She had saved her valuable underwear that time, and she had remembered this when he called her the next night. So, she had slipped out of her knickers before she followed the call. Besides, he very much liked it when she did not wear too many layers of clothes, and especially her knickers and bra had always annoyed him. This led her to wearing no underwear at all when she set off to meet him. It pleased him to find another obstacle gone, which in return pleased her.

Therefore she now slipped each night out of her knickers and bra, dressed only in skirt and sweater, and waited. When he did not call her, she would sigh disappointedly and return to her sleeping bag and try to find some rest. The next day, she then was usually tired and irritated. Yet if he called her, she would make haste to meet him, and was fresh and joyful the next morning.

He had not called for her during their hunt for the bandits, and even though she was in a rather dark mood at day she was not at all sorry for him not calling her. For, on the morning of the first day they set out to find the outlaws, she felt familiar cramps in her lower abdomen. In the late afternoon of that day she had to beg her friends for a short break and retreated behind a bush. Cursing under her breath, she searched her bag for tampons, because now she was having her period.

Her friends asked what was wrong with her and Inu Yasha sniffed at her closely. But Kagome cut short their questions by saying she was okay and only having a very feminine problem. The boys decided not to ask any more questions and Sango cast her a sympathetic glance, thinking she now understood her friend’s late mood swings.

The night after they had returned the old man to his daughter, Kagome lay awake and stared into the star-covered night-sky. She was in a very dark mood, missing Sesshomaru and wishing he would call for her again. She felt her stomach cramp, and cured, because even if he called her, she could not go.

She sighed and curled into a ball inside her sleeping bag. Closing her eyes, she tried to fall asleep, though the pain in her lower abdomen made this difficult. She was about to get herself a painkiller to be able to relax when she felt the tug at her soul.

Kagome closed her eyes and shivered. Oh no … why now? I can’t! She decided not to follow this time, but after a while the tugs became painful. One part of her body was already craving for another night of passion, but the other part suffered from her period pains. Kagome buried her face in her hands, sobbing silently. But I can’t, I can’t! Not now! O damn.

The next pull was so agonizing she groaned. Feeling torn between lust and shame, the pain of the call and her period wreaking havoc on her body, she shakily stood up. There was no other way, she had to go to him and at least explain.

Staggering, Kagome moved into the direction he wanted her to go. As soon as she had started walking, the pain of the call became lesser. At first she was grateful for that little relief, but now that the pain was gone the other reaction of her body kicked in stronger. She was no longer trembling in pain but in growing desire.

Kagome wondered that her body felt lust even at such a time. Ah, but why not … She blinked, confused. I did not think that, did I? No … But it is true, why should I not want him? He may ease the pain … Uh, hang on, this isn’t me! Instinct! Get out of my thoughts! She thought she heard a faint laughter and shook her head. If anybody ever knew I’m talking to voices in my head …

She had not noticed where she was walking while arguing with her voice of Instinct, so she blinked now in surprise as she stood at the edge of a grove, a once well-kept path at her feet. She looked around and found she was standing in a beautiful though overgrown park. This must have been part of a mansion. What if there are still people living here? The call roused her from her thoughts and following it, she stepped into the grove.

The path wound its way between cherry-trees to a clearing with a small pond. On its surface grew water lilies, and the edges were covered with marble over which moss had grown. On both sides stood marble benches, both equally covered with moss. Sesshomaru stood in front of the pond, staring at her.

Kagome shivered at the sight of him. His eyes glowed red and his fangs had elongated. The magenta stripes on his cheeks were more distinct than usual. His nostrils were quivering, and he was growling softly with each ragged breath he took. She gulped and nervously crossed her arms in front of her chest. He seemed to be very angry.

‘Sorry,’ she croaked.

Sesshomaru raised his eyes that had been fixed on her belly, and looked at her. He was trembling, she noticed, and her breath hitched in her throat.

‘What are you apologizing for?’ His voice was much deeper and huskier than usual.

Kagome took a step back, worriedly nibbling on her lower lip. She moistened her lips with her tongue. ‘Um … Sorry for not coming immediately when you called.’

He quirked an eyebrow at her.

‘You … you seem to be pretty angry and …’

Slowly, he shook his head, his eyes never leaving hers. Kagome blinked. If he wasn’t angry, what was up with him? He held out his hand to her and she remembered what she had come for.

She sighed and shook her head, casting her eyes down to evade his piercing gaze. ‘I can’t,’ she whispered. Her body protested vigorously and screamed for his touch, but Kagome did not comply. I can’t!

When he did not answer her, she looked up again. He was still standing there, holding his hand out to her.

‘Um, Sesshomaru, I …’ she began.

He made a demanding gesture for her to come to him. Kagome obeyed. She took his hand and was immediately pressed close to his body. Through his clothes she felt the heat that was radiating off him. His muscles were tensed, and he was indeed trembling. His heart was beating madly next to her ear. Kagome sighed and could not help caressing his silk-covered chest, marvelling at how hard his muscles were and how wonderful he felt.

He pulled her even closer, pressing her flush against him, and she felt his arousal. The hardness sent a jolt of electricity through her. Her pent-up emotions and desire flared up. She pressed herself against him and wrapped her arms around his waist while her hands trailed over his muscular back to his bottom.

Sesshomaru brushed his searing lips over her neck. Kagome moaned, but shook her head again.

‘I can’t, Sesshomaru,’ she forced herself to say. This must be the hardest thing she had ever done, refusing him now when she wanted him so badly. Tears welled up behind her eyes. With a desperate sob she pressed her face into his chest. ‘I can’t!’

He kissed her ear. ‘You are bleeding,’ he growled.

Kagome nodded, hiding her face in shame ‘Yes, I … I’m having my period.’ She remembered that he perhaps did not know what that meant and started explaining, but he interrupted her.

‘I know of the cycle of human females.’ His voice had dropped even deeper and she more felt his words than heard them.

Curiously, she peered up at him. ‘You know? How?’

He stared down on her. His breath came in strained pants and his hand on her hip twitched. ‘I had the fortune of living with a human stepmother for several years,’ he answered, his voice shaking.

Kagome’s eyes widened, but not at his words. He’s holding back! Gods, he’s fighting for self-control! And he’s quickly loosing that fight. Another wave of desire surged through her. She moaned.

This sound shred his last threads of self-control. He started. Kagome felt his body yank. Roughly, he jerked free from her and pushed her back towards a bench. She fell back on it when the edge hit the hollows of her knees. Instantly, he had knelt down and pushed her legs apart and her skirt upwards. He hissed when he saw her knickers and disposed of them with two quick flicks of his talons.

Kagome struggled up on her elbows, opening her mouth to speak – to protest – but that moment he pressed his mouth between her legs, and she fell back with a moan. Tangling one hand in his silken strands, she opened her legs further and raised her hips to allow him better access. His rough tongue stroked over her womanhood. All thoughts of protesting, as well as of everything else but him, fled from her mind.

Suddenly he drew back, and Kagome peered dazedly down at him. Then she felt how the tampon was slowly pulled out of her. His hot breath ghosted over her clit. She sighed softly and watched dazedly through half-closed eyes as he pulled the tampon out entirely, regarded it for a moment and sniffed at it before he flung it away.

He turned back and once again buried his face in her lap. Kagome moaned as he began lapping up some droplets of blood, brushing his tongue over her again and again. His growl rumbled like distant thunder as he pushed his tongue into her hot core.

Kagome sobbed and bucked her hips up into his mouth. He thrust his tongue deeper into her body, and she wrapped her legs around his shoulders. His hand lay on her stomach, and he stretched his fingers until his thumb rubbed over the small bud. Kagome’s body arched up, her mouth opening into a silent scream.

He moved his thumb in small circles over the bundle of nerves while his tongue was pushing into her rhythmically. Kagome’s head fell back. Her hips jerked up. Her hands tore at his hair to get him closer. She was sobbing and panting with the sensations his finger and tongue caused.

His tongue slid out of her and began licking the moist folds of her sex. His finger continued its sweet torture. Kagome moaned; shivers ran through her body, she was on fire and fast reaching the peak.

He lapped up the hot liquid that poured out of her, her intoxicating essence mixed with her blood. He drew his tongue roughly over the entrance to her body, yearning for more. Its scent, its taste were heavenly. They clouded his mind like a drug, and he wanted more, more of her blood.

Kagome gasped as his tongue trailed upwards and first joined, then replaced his fingers. He began to lick and suck vigorously at her clit, growling all the time. The reverberations of his growls incited her even more. She rocked her hips, pressing his head closer to her with both hands. Her body bent back into an arch of lust, the muscles in her legs tensed, and with a scream Kagome reached the peak.

Sesshomaru dipped his tongue into her body again, feeling her muscles flex around him. Greedily, he drank the blood that poured out of her, brought forth through the contaminations of her orgasm.

She released his hair and her legs were lying, motionless save a faint trembling, over his shoulders. Her breath was ragged, and now and then she sobbed more than breathed. He loved to hear these sounds that told him of her satisfaction. With a growl deep in his chest, he trailed his tongue once more over the engorged bud. Instantly, she bucked her hips up, her legs tightened around his shoulders again, and she moaned.

He pressed her hips down with his hand and assaulted the small bundle of nerves. The female groaned and cried his name, gasping for air. Her fingers intertwined with his hair; her soft claws rubbed over his head. A shiver ran down his spine. It was a very pleasant feeling, especially as she reached the spots behind his ears. Sesshomaru purred, continuing to lick and nibble until the growing tension in her body told him she was nearing the climax again.

He traced circles with the tip of his tongue around the bud and heard her pleading him for release. But he did not comply and continued teasing her, until she began jerking at his silver strands. He pulled back and trailed his tongue down, lapping up what blood had trickled out of her. His finger took the place of his tongue and rubbed rhythmically, and soon the female climaxed again, screaming her fulfilment into the night.

Again he pressed his mouth to the entrance of her body, lapping up every single drop of her blood he could get. It was more than heavenly, and its taste excited him. Dimly, he was aware of the burning need of his body for release, but right now he wanted more of her delicious blood. Not wishing to hurt her again, he settled on getting more of her menstruation blood.

He returned his attention to her clit, usually hidden so well. Now it protruded from the folds around it, red and swollen from previous ministrations. A small smile on his thin lips, Sesshomaru bent on task again.

Kagome shook violently. She felt as if all strength had left her. This second time had been so hard she thought she would die. Her poor heart was fluttering in her chest, and she was completely breathless. She heard him growl, and then felt his tongue once more. A lightning shot through her body. Immediately, she was aroused again, trembling and yearning for more, and as his tongue began regularly moving over her clit she could feel another peak approaching.

‘Gods,’ she moaned through erratic heaves. ‘Gods, oh gods … oh … oh … oh g- SESSHOMARU!’ And she exploded.

Growling with satisfaction, the demon listened to her breathless cries. He felt her body respond to his every touch, heard it singing with rapture. Quickly, he lapped up the blood, and when he had tasted the last drop, he thrust one finger into her hot, inviting core.

The female screamed in ecstasy, her hips bucked madly against his finger. He watched her with burning eyes; watched her toss her head and clench her fingers around the edge of the bench; watched her arching up her body and licking her lips.

He inserted a second finger and wiggled them inside of her. She gasped and whimpered, pulled her lower lip between her teeth and bit down on it. He drew his fingers back, and then slammed three into her core.

She opened her lips to scream, but was so breathless no sound escaped. He began to pump into her forcefully, and felt her inner muscles flex around his fingers. She came again, and once more he tasted her sweet blood.

After this Kagome lost track. She did not know how often he made her peak that night. She was lost in an ocean of lust, burning desire and sweet satisfaction. Everything was melted into a silvery mist, every thought of period pain and cramps long gone, and only his red eyes and his rough tongue were distinct in her memory.

Once she vaguely felt him tear at her clothes, but was not able to do anything. Yet, he managed without her help, and soon she felt his hot lips sear over her breasts. He bit into her nipples, eliciting a soft hiss from her. Then she felt his hard erection between her thighs, and the next second he was buried deep inside of her. She peaked immediately, feeling his forceful thrusts through her shuddering release. He kept slamming into her, and this time they climaxed together.

This was not the last time he made love to her that night. He was insatiable and demanding, and only stopped when she finally lost consciousness. He cradled her against his body and allowed her to rest, his body still yearning for hers, and his demonic beast screaming for her blood. Through the rest of the night he kept fighting for control. He had promised to protect her and he would protect her, even from himself.

At dawn Sesshomaru carried her back, her light frame sitting easily in his arm. He approached her camp cautiously and checked from afar whether her companions were still asleep. When he had made sure they were, he stepped to the fire and laid the woman gently down on her sleeping bag. For a while he stood silently and watched her face. She had circles of exhaustion under her eyes, and her breath was still strained.

He bent down and kissed her softly on her lips, the alluring scent of her blood tickling his nose. Quickly, he squashed the rising lust and craving for more of her blood. With one last glance he turned and left.

Kagome slept until she was forcefully woken by Inu Yasha, who rudely ordered her to get up. She rose shakily, her mind still clouded. The memory of last night came back very slowly, and she blushed, casting sideward looks at her friends, who were thankfully oblivious to the state she was in and already concentrating on the day’s hunt for the evil hanyou. So she hurried to dress and to prepare breakfast, washed the blood out of her skirt were it had created a dark blotch after seeping out of her body unhindered, and got ready to set off.

Fortunately, her friends blamed her exhaustion and tiredness on her ‘feminine problem’ and did not ask any questions. Their minds seemed to be entirely on Naraku, and as fast as they could they headed to the West.


* ~ * ~ * ~ *


One day later, Inu Yasha stopped in the middle of his continued tirades about lecherous monks - he was still furious because of the delay caused by Miroku - and stiffened. They had come to a river that crossed their way. On their side of the bank were fields, on its other side began a lush forest. Inu Yasha growled.

‘What is it, Inu Yasha?’ asked Kagome, worriedly looking around. ‘Are there demons around?’

‘No. No demons.’ He glared at the forest.

‘What’s up then?’ enquired Shippo, jumping onto his shoulder to have a better view.

‘This river is the border to the Western Lands. Beyond it begins Sesshomaru’s domain.’

Kagome felt struck by a lightning. So close … The feeling of foreboding came back, stronger this time, and together with her by now normal reaction to his name it made her shiver visibly.

Sango laid a hand on her shoulder. ‘What’s wrong, Kagome-chan? Don’t you feel well? Are you still tired?’

Kagome shook her head. ‘I’m all right, Sango-chan. It’s just …’

‘Don’t you worry, Kagome,’ said Inu Yasha’s gruff voice near her. She started and looked at him. He watched her with a serious expression on his face. ‘Don’t you worry. I won’t let him near you.’

Kagome blinked, and then blushed. She cast her eyes down. ‘It’s okay, Inu Yasha.’

After a gesture from him, she climbed onto his back, and he jumped over the river. He did not let her down again but insisted on carrying her. Kagome felt more uneasy than the first times she had ridden on his back and wondered why. I used to feel safe on his back. I loved to feel his muscles moving under my hands and his strength. Why has that changed so much? I’d rather walk on my own …

Behind her she heard Shippo ask, ‘What was Inu Yasha talking about? Is Koga near?’

Kagome felt Inu Yasha tense under her hands.

‘He wasn’t talking of Koga,’ explained Sango. ‘He was talking of Sesshomaru. We are now in his lands and he might be near us.’

He is near … I know it, even if I can’t feel him!

‘Oh.’ Shippo pondered on this a while. ‘Do you think he might come and hurt Kagome?’

He won’t hurt me, but he will come …

‘Maybe, I don’t know. But whatever happens, Inu Yasha will protect her.’ The smile was audible in Sango’s voice.

‘Why can’t they just keep their noses out of other people’s business?’ grumbled Inu Yasha.

‘They are our friends, Inu Yasha,’ Kagome answered, trying to keep her voice calm and steady. ‘It’s natural that they are worried.’

‘No need to.’

Kagome smiled a bit wryly. ‘I know.’

No, they don’t need to worry. Sesshomaru would not hurt me …

Nothing happened on this first day in the Western Lands. Neither Sesshomaru nor any other demons approached them. They kept heading straight west still, since they had no other information on Naraku’s route. That night at camp Miroku began to wonder aloud at the fact that Naraku had dared to come into Sesshomaru’s lands.

‘From what we know, Sesshomaru doesn’t seem to be the guy that would allow Naraku to simply walk into his domain, get the shards, cause some havoc, and leave.’

‘What are you talking about, Miroku?’ asked Inu Yasha. ‘You don’t believe Naraku was invited, do you?’

‘No!’ the monk shook his head. ‘Oh, no! Naraku is a hanyou and we all know, pardon me Inu Yasha, what Sesshomaru thinks of hanyous. I simply couldn’t help asking myself why Naraku came here. It must be for some really good reason that he exposes himself to danger!’

‘Well, if there are shards in the Western Lands …’ began Sango.

‘Then he might have send Kagura or, sorry, Kohaku to get them. He wouldn’t have come himself.’

Inu Yasha frowned. ‘Only if the shards were hidden in some place or owned by somebody
Naraku thought only he could …’ His eyes widened at this idea. ‘You think Sesshomaru has shards??’

Miroku shrugged. ‘If he has some, then surely only by accident. He made it clear he’s not interested in them.’

‘But you deem that possible?’ Sango leaned forwards. ‘You think the shards could have scattered that far?’

The monk shrugged again. ‘I don’t know. It was just a suggestion that would explain Naraku’s actions.’

‘Keh, I don’t think Sesshomaru has shards! He would’ve said so.’ Inu Yasha glared defiantly at Miroku, who raised his eyebrows.

‘Somehow I can’t believe Sesshomaru would tell you he has Shikon shards. You’re not on very good terms, and …’

‘That’s it!’ interrupted the hanyou his friend’s words. ‘He knows I’m looking for them! I wouldn’t put it past him to tell me he has shards but won’t give them to me. Or only in exchange for Tessaiga!’

‘Hm …’ Miroku weighed his head. ‘Perhaps, and perhaps not. But if he hasn’t got the shards, then why would Naraku himself go for them? What do you think, Kagome-sama?’

He turned to the girl as she got up. ‘You have been silent so far. Don’t you have an opinion, too?’

Kagome stepped over to the yellow bag-monster and enfolded her sleeping bag.

‘I think Naraku had better not mess with Sesshomaru. It could end his life quicker than he thinks if he does.’

They blinked at her.

‘That was not the question,’ Inu Yasha growled.

Kagome simply shrugged and proceeded in her preparations for the night. They blinked again and looked at each other questioningly. What was up with her?

‘Are you going to sleep already, Kagome-chan?’ Sango addressed her friend a bit hesitatingly.

Kagome nodded. ‘Yes, I’m very tired. So, good-night everybody!’

She slipped into her sleeping bag, flashed her friends a smile and turned around.

Suddenly, Inu Yasha sat in front of her. ‘You’re not going to be ill, are you?’

Kagome cracked an eye open.

‘No, I’m just tired.’

She closed the eye again and pressed her face into the sleeping bag.

She heard Inu Yasha huff and return to the others. They kept on talking in whispers, but nevertheless it was loud enough for her to understand each word. They were still discussing what might have brought Naraku into the West, and whether Sesshomaru might have shards or not. Kagome wished they would stop talking about him.

She had had a hard time to get over their last meeting. For days, she had felt exhausted and tired. Walking had been painful, as was sitting, because certain parts of her body were either over-sensitive or extremely sore. Only when she lay flat on her back she felt comfortable (though Instinct had been right: her period pain had lessened considerably). But that was all gone now, and she had not seen him for four days! She missed him, and her body’s reactions did nothing to help her.

Her heart fluttered each time she heard his name, and the longer her friends kept on talking about him the stronger the reaction of her body became. Her nerves tingled, her heart was beating faster, and she did not seem to get enough air into her lungs, for she felt very breathless. The fiery knot deep inside of her twisted and turned, making the tips of her breasts bud and goose bumps rise on her over-sensitive skin. It was unnerving!

She had been yearning for him more than usual ever since they had crossed the border to the Western Lands. Now she was in his domain, was part of his country. Now she belonged to him. Instead of fear, this though had raised another wave of searing desire inside of her. It had been so strong she had been glad she was on Inu Yasha’s back. Otherwise she would have fallen, since every bone in her body had felt like jelly.

But that was the only reason why she had been glad to ride on Inu Yasha’s back. On the whole she would have preferred to walk on her own! The feeling of Inu Yasha’s body pressed to hers, his waist between her thighs – and dangerously close to some rather intimate part – and his hands on her body had made her feel highly uncomfortable. She had recalled the times when it had been his brother who was so close to her and her reaction to that had intensified her already burning need to a painful extend.

She had expected Inu Yasha to say something or question her. He ought to have smelled her arousal and felt the heat radiating off her body. But he had said nothing. He had only held her tightly, his muscles tensing from time to time below her hands. No word had escaped his lips. Indeed, he had been very silent once they were in the Western Lands. Kagome hoped that his thoughts were entirely on Naraku and the jewel shards.

She wriggled restlessly in her sleeping bag. She felt hot and restive, she needed Sesshomaru, and her friends had still not ceased talking about him! Kagome suppressed a sigh. This was driving her mad. At least one thing she now knew for sure after this day: she absolutely did not want Inu Yasha to hold her or touch her. She wanted nobody else safe Sesshomaru.

The strength of her desire made her tremble, and she bit into the cloth of the sleeping bag to stifle a groan. A small hand slipped between her legs and pressed down on the spot where it hurt the most. It did not help, though, only made her ache more. Damn you, Sesshomaru! I need you … I need you … Oh, if I could only sleep …

But the soothing darkness of dreams evaded her for a long time, even after her companions stopped talking and went to bed as well. At long last, exhaustion took over, and she fell into deep, black sleep.

When her body relaxed at last, Inu Yasha sighed. He closed his eyes to doze a bit, wondering what was wrong with her. Of course he had noticed the difference in her scent. He had cursed it, for the heavy, earthy smell had clouded his senses and made him think in a way of Kagome he did not want. Furthermore, he remembered that she had smelled like this for the first time after that meeting with his bastard brother, after which she had gone home for a whole week. Inu Yasha frowned. Could this scent indicate an illness? Was Kagome coming down with something? Or were these some remains from her “feminine problem” some days ago?

She had also been radiating a strange heat. That would go with the illness … maybe she was in a kind of fever? On the other hand he had not thought her ill when he had felt that warmth from her … It had affected him as well, but he had ignored his reaction. It had embarrassed him that he would think and react in this way, so he had chosen to concentrate on Naraku, the jewel and the hunt.

Shaking his head, Inu Yasha decided to stick to that. Naraku was first now, and he could ask Kagome what was up with her later. After all, she had said herself she was okay. He shrugged and banished the thoughts from his mind, and tried to get as much as rest as possible.