A/N: Hey guys, here is chapter 7, I did some change up on the first paragraph in chapter 6 where I said that his uncle fell in love with Kazumi, he is actually a non-blood relative, best friend of Inu no Taisho, but he had fit himself into the family so well that Taisho finds him as a little brother, ever since then, Sesshomaru adopt to the change and had found him as an uncle. I hope that is clear. Anyways, R&R and thank you for waiting.

Title: Two of a Kind

Chapter 7

It is a beautiful day out with the small clouds in the sky and a warm gentle breeze in the air. Kagome is sitting down in the garden watching Rin picking more flowers to make a wreath for Jaken. 'She's so full of energy.' Kagome said peacefully in her mind as she felt that warmth again. It's the same warmth she gets when she's holding Shippo in her arms and tucking him in for bed.' I think I'm starting to become attached to Rin like she's my own daughter.' Kagome didn't mind that, it'll be nice to have Rin calling her mother. The warm breeze picked up, making some of Kagome's hair dance in the wind and some of it blowing across her face causing her eyes to squint.

When the wind died down, she noticed a figure across the garden, sitting up against a tree. It's Sesshomaru with his eyes closed, a peaceful mien shown on his face as if he was taking a short nap. Kagome stood up and walks over to him, admiring how handsome he looks. When she had gotten close enough, she sat down in front of him with a soft countenance written on her face. 'He's so good-looking, I wonder how he'll react if I get up close to him.' Kagome's expression on her face changes from admiration to mischievous.

Sesshomaru can feel her presence in front of him, her scent of roses and fresh rain lingers in the air around them. While having his eyes still closed, he can hear her moving towards him. Inch by inch he can lightly feel her towering her weight over him, yet he remained calm and wait for the moment of strike.

Kagome moved inch by inch, trying her best to become unnoticed. She held her breath as she kept her focus on his face. 'Come on, you can do it, just make it seem like you're going to kiss, he'll open his eyes in shock, fill his mind with hopes then just only kiss his cheek and pull away suddenly!' The plan sounded good in images but not much in her mind.

The breeze picked up again making Kagome's hair blow across her f ace once more, making her wince when it got in her eyes. She lost her balanced and landed softly on top of Sesshomaru. Kagome opened her eyes slowly then widen them when she felt a soft hand brushing her hair out of her face. She saw two warm golden eyes staring at her, peering through her soul as a light blush creeps up on her cheek. "Oh, I'm sorry Sesshomaru, didn't mean to land on you." Kagome said, trying her best to seem innocent in the act. "You lack of grace, miko." Sesshomaru said, as he watches Kagome fidget on his lap. "I know it sucks really badly. Even my own mother tells me so. Said I'm always so reckless, but that's how I am and loves every moment of it." Kagome spoke in a soft manner as she looked down, feeling the sad thoughts of her family being pushed away, making her grip her haori.

Sesshomaru watches her looked down, her eyes dulling again. He placed his hand gently on her cheek, minding his claws, and strokes her cheek with his thumb, his indifferent mask melt away with a sincere, concerning one. He stared into her dull brown eyes as they changes back to the warm ones, but still looking towards the ground. He felt a warm sensation in the pit of his stomach as he took her chin and convert her gaze to him. 'She's very beautiful for a human. Father is this how you felt towards Inuyasha's mother?' Sesshomaru pondered as he observed Kagome's cheeks tint with a small blush and her warm brown eyes staring at him. 'She's breath-taking.' Kagome placed her hand on his wrist and move his hand to the side of her face, leaning into it. "Sesshomaru…"

Sesshomaru wrapped his arms around her in pulled her up more, making her lay a bit on his mokomoko and his chest. Kagome relaxes and nuzzle his mokomoko, receiving a soft purr from him. She can also hear the rhythm of his heartbeat, steady with his breathing. His arms around her waist made his embrace reassuring.

'His embrace feels nice. I never want to leave it.' Kagome sighed happily as she nuzzle his mokomoko again, drifting to sleep in his warm arms. Sesshomaru listen to her steady breathing, glancing down to see her sleeping, resting her head on his mokomoko. 'She looks peaceful sleeping.' He used the back of his hand to lightly brush her cheeks, watching her sleep as his eyes closed halfway then shut, relaxing with her in his arms and listening out for any intruder. Until Takeshi appeared, bowing and spoke in a whisper, trying not to wake up the sleeping miko. "You need me My Lord?"

Afternoon passed as the evening arrives. Kagome stir in her sleep a bit then slowly starts to wake up. She felt warm and felt something soft against her cheek. 'Mmm, it is so soft.' She groggily said in her mind while nuzzling it. Her mind woke up as she gasped when she heard a soft purr, sitting up a bit to see Sesshomaru staring at her.

"Slept well Kagome?" Kagome eyes widen in surprise then smile softly at him. Sesshomaru stares at her, wondering why she's smiling. "Is there something wrong?" He asked with a hint of monotony in his voice. Kagome shook her head no. "It's just, you have said my name. It has always been miko." Kagome enlightened, staring into his eyes with a smile.

It was true and deep down he knows he is starting to develop feelings towards her. He will not deny it. The sun is setting, telling them night will be approaching soon. Two figures started to walk towards them from the castles. Sesshomaru glances over, his indifferent features placed back on as he narrowed his eyes. The two figures that are walking towards them he already knew right away.

Kagome study Sesshomaru sudden changes with a puzzled look. Meeting his gaze, she looked over her shoulder, her eyes widen when she saw two youkai females standing in front of them.

"Hmph, a filthy human laying on Lord Sesshomaru, how disgusting, even have a terrible smell on her." One of the female jeered out and appeared taller than the other woman, who stood by quietly. The taller female placed her ornate fan near her mouth while narrowing her eyes, making a revolted face before speaking again. "Ugh the air reeks so badly. Let's go Shizuka, we don't need to be around such an awful smell." The smaller female spoke, known as Shizuka, watches the taller female making her way back to the castle. "Y-Yes big sister Makoto! It's good to see you again Lord Sesshomaru." Shizuka said politely with a bow then straightens up and darted when Makoto shouted for her to hurry up.

Kagome blinked a few times trying to register what had happened then looked up at Sesshomaru with a questioning look. "Who are those two?" She asked as Sesshomaru gently pushes her up off his lap, making her and him stand. "They are the Northern inu youkai himes and they have come for a day visit." He stated dryly while making his way in the castle. "Inu youkai? They seem a bit different from you Sesshomaru. I mean they have black hair instead of silver, green eyes, slightly tanned skin and the orange stripes. They yellow sun is apparently their family emblem mark. Are they a heritage to you guys?" Kagome stated and asked, quicken her pace a bit to catch up, walking next to him.

"How observant are you." He said sarcastically ignoring the glares from her as they turned a corner in the hall and continues. "Yes they have different traits and customs but we do have the same heritage in our blood." Sesshomaru growled lowly. He doesn't like the fact of them being blood heritage. They are pathetic rude people, but their Lord is the only inu youkai that holds the true strength of the Northern Lands. He has high pride, but not nearly rude as his mate. They have tried to produce a son to hold on the pride, but had found out that Shizuka has inherited the potential, making her the next rule of the Northern Lands. "It sounds like you don't like the Northerns." Kagome mumbled, looking up at him at the corner of her eyes while taking hint of his low growl.

"Lord Tsuyoshi is respectable, however his eldest and mate are the only ones that put the heritage on bad terms." Sesshomaru said while stopping in front of the door that leads to his future mate's room. Kagome noticed it is the door that leads to the room she was in when she first arrives to the castle and before being in Sesshomaru's. She looked up at him, staring into his eyes that have softened once more. "Um, I guess that Makoto person shows what you meant." Kagome said, finding his stare making her nervous and blushing.

"It is most troublesome since they'll be here for a day, but we should get ready for dinner." He said as he turned around, taking a step until he felt her grab his haori sleeve, making him stop in place. He glances over his shoulder, looking over to see her blushing deeply and looking down at the floor. 'She still looks away from me. What could possibly be on her mind?'

She didn't know why she had to stop him, but her gut tells her that she just need to. Kagome looked from the floor then moves in front of him. Her heart is pounding fast as she stood up a bit on her toes, pressing her lips softly against Sesshomaru's who in return kisses back while wrapping his arms around her waist.

The kiss was short but sweet as Kagome pulled away then quickly enters the room, closing the door behind her. Sesshomaru smiled softly then start walking toward his room. 'I have a feeling things will get interesting.'

Once Kagome entered, she walks slowly over to the middle of the room, her hands on her cheeks to keep her blush under control. 'I kissed him! And he kissed back! Am I…really fallen for him…?' Kagome irrational thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. "Kagome? It's me Michio. I came to help you get ready for dinner. May I come in?" Kagome walks over to the door and opened it to be greeted by a smiling Michio. "Hello Michio! Of course you can come in." Kagome said happily with a chuckle, stepping aside for Michio to walk in. "We have guests tonight, guests that I do despise, so Kagome, I'm going to make you so gorgeous to the point they'll have to give up on Lord Sesshomaru." Michio answered while laughing evilly. "Heh heh, and why do I have to play the victim?" Kagome asked while laughing nervously, finding Michio's evil laugh scary. "Because Kagome, you are the only female that has gotten far with Lord Sesshomaru, the Ladies from other parts of the Lands will be envy and would have to give up on Lord Sesshomaru." Michio answered truthfully while opening the wardrobe, staring down at a dusty box. "Every Lady I have seen is terrible by all means and you, Kagome, will be the repellent for Lord Sesshomaru!" Michio evilly grinned and chuckled lowly to herself. 'Heh heh, that laugh scares me.' Kagome fearfully thought with a sweat drop and a small nervous looking smile.

Makoto and Shizuka are walking down the hallway, heading towards the dining hall. "Shizuka, you really need to open up more to Lord Sesshomaru. You and I simply cannot lose to that filthy human girl! For kami's sakes, even the Courts find you suitable." Makoto said with a hint of sneer in her voice. "Yes big sister, I'm aware of that." Shizuka said in a hush tone, sighing mentally while looking down at the floor sad. 'To be honest, I don't care what the Courts think or have any care for Lord Sesshomaru. I just want to be by his side, only his and no one else's.' Shizuka thought while ignoring her sister's chattering about her needing to be livelier around Sesshomaru like her for an example.

They passed by a dojo with men training in it. It made Shizuka break free from her thoughts as she stops, a blush creeping up on her cheeks as she peers through the cracked door, staring at a certain someone. Makoto stops when she noticed her sister not following her and is looking into the dojo. 'Her and her love for battles, just like father.' Makoto huffed while placing her hands on her hips, feeling slightly annoyed. "Goodness little sister, you really are like father. I'm going to go ahead and get to the dining hall first before that wretched human does." Makoto scorned, leaving her sister behind. "Okay Makoto, I'll join you shortly." Shizuka said with a smile on her face as she enters the dojo.

Michio steps back with an evil grin and a snicker. Kagome is wearing a gold, black, red, silver princess kimono. The haori is black with red spider lily flowers sprouting from the bottom, its petal bloom around her thighs and resting around her waist. One big silver crescent moon rests on the sleeves. Under the haori she had on a silver and cream robe, and tied around her waist is a gold color obi. Some of her hair is braided, twisted up, and pinned back with beautiful small white flower crystal hair pins; her bang has been pushed to the side, leaving some hair out to the side. A red flower is placed at the upper side of her hair. The rest of her hair is left down, but is combed through to make it straighter. She didn't have any make up on, her natural beauty is enough.

Kagome heads over to the full length mirror, twisting and turning her body to examine herself. "Well Michio, I pray for your success." Kagome said with a soft sigh. "Oh it will work and it shall work Kagome." Michio said with determination burning in her eyes. Kagome noticed Michio's determination and laughed nervously. 'I do hope it works for her sake.'

By the way, why do you hate the sisters? I mean I understand Makoto, but why also Shizuka?" Kagome asked, looking at Michio as she looked down, but didn't hide the seriousness that registers on her face. "They do not fit well for Lord Sesshomaru. You see the Court chosen Lady Shizuka to be Lord Sesshomaru's mate if he fails to find him a suitable one. It was very sudden, before Lord Sesshomaru set off on a conquest. Three years passed and the Court been constantly sending him letters, asking if he has found himself a mate while journeying. At first everyone thought Lord Sesshomaru would go for Makoto, since she's the eldest and couldn't rule the Northern Lands. You see Lady Shizuka is next in line of ruling; she's the only one that inherited her father's power, his will and strength to protect the Lands. She's very strong despite what people take her granted for. When her father was away to the South to deal with a treaty, a vast of very strong huge demons attack the palace, but Lady Shizuka stood up and killed the demons as if they were weaker demons. When the Courts heard of this, that's when they decided to make Lady Shizuka the compatible mate for Lord Sesshomaru. The Courts didn't care, they know Lord Tsuyoshi will live long and probably have his mate bare him another child. It is incredibly disgusting. Using one's power just to make one Land stronger, it is pathetic."

The explanation made Michio clench the front of her kimono and shook with anger. Feeling her anger, Kagome goes over to Michio and hugs her and whispered in her ear. "It's okay, I'm sure Sesshomaru sees it, probably the reason why he hasn't mated yet. He's waiting for the right one to actually be with in a natural way and not by force." Kagome said with reassuring as Michio relaxes and hugs Kagome back. 'I think he already has Kagome, but will it happen in time for the both of you to realize it before the Courts does take action?' Michio thought as she pulled away, smiling.

"Now shall we go? I can't wait to see the looks on their faces." Michio said with a giggle, making her way towards the door. "Actually Michio, I'll go by myself." Kagome said making Michio stop in her place. "Oh? Have you become familiar with the castle already?" She asked opening the door. "Yes, some reason I feel like I'm at home." Michio's eyes widen a bit then she smiles, bowing her head. "Very well Kagome."

Kagome walks down the hallway, her mind occupied about the event that had happened between her and Sesshomaru then to the conversation she had with Michio. 'So if Sesshomaru doesn't find a suitable mate…the Courts going to have Shizuka and Sesshomaru go through arranged mating…' Kagome bite down on her lip a habit she had picked up if she becomes frustrated, feeling uneasy.

As she approaches near the dojo, she perceived how quiet it is. 'That's odd, are they meditating?' Kagome peeked through the cracks and gasped softly in her mind. There stood Shizuka with a Western inu youkai. And judging by the armor her worn, he seems to be a general. He has his arms wrapped around her waist and is looking at her with love filled eyes. Shizuka had the same looks in her eyes as the General; her arms wrapped around his neck before pushing her weight up and kiss him.

Kagome felt a presence behind her and turned around quickly, holding back a scream and stepping away from the door when she saw a black figure in the dark with two glowing eyes staring at her as if it was going to hunt her. The figure steps forward in the moon's light and there stood Takeshi, looking at her pale expression with a raised eyebrow. "Dear kami Takeshi! Don't scare me like that! Your eyes glowed like my cat when he's looking at me in the dark!" Kagome said in her best whispered shout, trying to not make a scene for the two in the dojo. "My apologies, Kagome, I forgot about that. My eyes do lit up like an animal trying to see in the dark. But I see you took note of Lady Shizuka and General Takeru." Takeshi said, walking over to Kagome.

"Yea, they seem to be madly in love with each other." Kagome said in a whisper tone again, looking back into the room only to see them gone. "They have been like that for a couple of years. A few months before Sesshomaru set off in his journey. Even Lord Sesshomaru noticed, but didn't take a hint of caring." Takeshi stated as he start walking down the hall to the dining hall. 'That sounds like Sesshomaru.' Kagome frowned a little at her thought then started walking; quicken her pace to walk side by side with Takeshi. "I see, they been together for some time, I wonder if he ever sends letters to her when she's back home." Kagome said, looking towards the ground, feeling sympathy for Shizuka. Takeshi glances down at Kagome for a brief moment than back forward. "There is times when Lord Sesshomaru returns to the Castle to attend to things or take a small break from battles. During those times Lady Yukiko would send Lady Shizuka and her elder sister Makoto to rub some influences to have Lord Sesshomaru to either show interest or be mated right away. She's one foolish Lady, makes me wonder how Lord Tsuyoshi could put up with her." Takeshi murmured out, feeling annoyed speaking about it. "The Courts doesn't know this nor will they ever unless Sesshomaru finds him a suitable mate. I think it is best for it to stay that way, for how long is what concerns me." Takeshi said with Kagome nodding in agreement.

"By the way Kagome, what were you and Lord Sesshomaru were doing in the gardens today?" Takeshi asked with a raised eyebrow, smirking as Kagome turned different shades of red. "We did nothing! All I did is fallen asleep in his lap!" She said in defense and huffed as Takeshi chuckles at her little embarrassed confession. "By the way, what were you doing watching?" Kagome asked, trying to even the playing field. "Sesshomaru used Jaken to summon me; I guess prevent from you waking up. You really looked peaceful by the way, as if you haven't slept that well in years." Takeshi cooed making Kagome blush again in embarrassment. "Yes, it has been awhile since I slept and dream peacefully." Kagome said truthfully while smiling, happiness running through her eyes. 'It seems they are starting to get close. Even during that afternoon Lord Sesshomaru, for once I have seen your stoic melt away as you looked down at her tenderly.' After that thought, they have arrived at the doors to the dining hall.

Takeshi pushes the doors open then bows, letting Kagome go in. Kagome walked in with a smile when she saw Sesshomaru sitting at his usual spot at the head of the table. His eyes are closed until he opened them, only to widen them a bit in surprise. Rin and Jaken was nowhere to be seen after she heard two gasps, one from Shizuka who is sitting on the left side of the table which also made Kagome wonder how she gotten here before her, then one from Makoto who is sitting next to Sesshomaru, in the mate's seat. Kagome frowned and walks over to Makoto, anger rising with in her along with a low demon like growl.

Sesshomaru has been annoyed for the past twenty minutes. Makoto had arrived before anyone else with a satisfying smirk on her face, and then had the nerve to sit next to him in the mate's chair. 'I wonder how Kagome will react to such gesture.' He thought to himself, closing his eyes to ignore Makoto's talks of other Lords and Ladies then something about throwing balls having just only the Lords and Ladies get together, hinting that Kagome wouldn't be welcomed. A few minutes passed by after her little bickering, Shizuka had entered. She hid General Takeru scent well from her sister, but Sesshomaru can still smell a hint of it on her.

Makoto was scorning her sister for being so late until she fell silent when the doors opened. Sesshomaru could tell who it is. No one could ever miss that smell of roses and fresh rain. When Sesshomaru opened his eyes he was shocked to see what Kagome is wearing. It is the same kimono that Kazumi had once worn, his non-relative uncle Inu no Tetsuya's mate. 'She almost looks like Kazumi. Her beauty isn't much in comparison like hers. I'll never get tired of it.' Sesshomaru purred in his mind.

Sesshomaru noticed her frowning over at Makoto and closed his eyes as she makes her way over to her. 'This should be quite entertaining.' Sesshomaru said, mentally smirking as he can feel Kagome's miko youkai power starting to rise up. 'It seems she learned to keep it them in control. Not even fighting over power of dominance.' Sesshomaru observed as the pink and blue aura starts to swirl together.

Makoto looks up at Kagome with a raised eyebrow of annoyance. "Hm? What is it, you filthy human? Can't you see me and Sesshomaru are having our moments together, not only that with you stupidly standing there you are holding back for dinner to be served." Kagome felt a nerve snapped as the whisper voice speaks to her. I'll help you whatever fits best. Claim what is yours. "That seat does not belong to you." Kagome said in a threatening tone.

"I don't see it being yours either human. Besides what makes you think Sesshomaru wants you by him stinking up his air." Kagome heard something snap inside her. The two powers that were seeping out came at full force as Kagome has Makoto in a tight grip around her neck, pinned to a wall.

Makoto is shocked and couldn't believe how fast the miko got her pinned in a death grip. 'Is…this girl…even human?!' Makoto thought in between breaths. She felt helpless; she can already feel the miko's power purifying her powers, unable to fight back. 'Is this the end of me?' She thought hopelessly as she stares back what use to be brown eyes, now deep blue crystal. 'Those eyes…'

Kagome is pissed and beyond. No way is she going to let the snobby inu woman push her around. 'She must die.' Only hurt her pride. 'Her blood must be spill.' Death would mean nothing… Kagome was talking back and forth to the whispered voice until the last sentence made her realize that she wasn't being herself at all. She lets her anger get the best with her and decided to go with the voice's advice. "Makoto, what makes you think he wants you anywhere near him? After many years of trying and pushing your dear little sister, do you really think he'll give up and mate you?" Kagome said in a low growling tone, narrowing her eyes as she sniffs the air, using her new found senses. "Hmph give it up, no way would Sesshomaru want to mate a soiled inu that reeks of different men, defiling the air around him." Kagome sneered with a smirk as Makoto gasped in shocked, letting her go as she hits the floor hard, her sister running up to her to help her.

Kagome watches in tentatively at Shizuka then spoke in a low tone while crossing her arms, frowning. "I understand she is your sister, but Shizuka you're ten times the woman she is. Your heart desires and loves someone else. Go for him and do not lose that opportunity." Shizuka eyes widen as she looks up at Kagome with her hands near her mouth as Kagome continues, watching her eyes change from deep blue to a soft warm brown. "You love him dearly, just as he is to you. Stop letting people push you around. You're the next ruler in line for the Northern, it is time to speak up and do what you see is right. How can you rule a land if you let people tell you what is right when you already know deep down what is truly right for the people and the Lands. You're stronger than this and I know it, especially the stories I have heard so far from your bravery of saving your home from a demon invasion.

Tears build up in Shizuka eyes until she blinked them away before helping her sister up. "Shizuka are you really going to listen to that infuriated human?!" Makoto fumed with a raspy voice, finding it returning. Shizuka gave her a glared that made her sister step back a bit in fear. "And who gave you the rights to tell me who to listen and trust?" She hissed out in hate then continues. "Older sister you are as pathetic as Kagome and father had stated. And I don't mean by skills but towards your nasty attitude." Shizuka stated coldly, receiving a shock expression from Makoto.

Shizuka looks over to Kagome and Sesshomaru, bowing, then sits up looking towards Sesshomaru. "Lord Sesshomaru, as we both are aware of the Courts action of sending you and my father a message years ago stating of your failure of finding a mate would mean of them to take drastic measure of you and I to be mated. It was postponed for 3 years since you had to journey. I would have to disregard that and will send them a letter of me not able to do such thing for I will not lose my turn next in ruling and refuse my sister take my place. I'm sure father and the other Lords and Ladies would strongly agree. And as for my dear older sister…"

Shizuka glances over to her sister with narrowed eyes who had huffed and looked away. "I will make sure to let the Courts know of her lectures acts and there for is not suitable for you at a place as Lady in the Western Palace." Shizuka said sternly, turning her gaze back over to Sesshomaru, who nodded in acknowledgement.

"What?! You cannot possibly do that Shizuka!" Makoto fumed and yelled. Shizuka didn't pay Makoto any mind. "Please excuse me for there is someone important for me to speak." Kagome and Sesshomaru nodded, knowing who she is talking about. Kagome smiled when she saw Shizuka smiling with confidence in her eyes while heading out of the dining. Makoto watches her sister leave, growling lowly in anger before turning her gaze over to Sesshomaru. "I don't know what you see in her Lord Sesshomaru, but I hope whatever bond you two are building, breaks severely.

With that said Makoto storms out the dining, leaving Kagome and Sesshomaru alone. "You stood your grounds fairly, miko." Sesshomaru said, breaking the intension in the room. 'Miko again? Earlier he was calling me by my name for once. What a letdown.' Kagome thought with a mental sigh. "Well Sesshomaru, I couldn't let some loud mouth woman talk so lowly of me." Kagome said while yawning softly, covering her mouth with her hand then blinks, remembering something. "Oh that's right. Where is Rin?" She asked while walking over to him then stands by him, feeling a little worried that she hasn't seen the little girl since that afternoon before she fell asleep.

"I had her eating in her room. I dislike the idea of her being around Makoto's influences." Sesshomaru said wryly while closing his eyes. 'He really cares for Rin like she is his own daughter. Knowing Makoto, she probably speaks lowly about her. What a low life inu for doing such a thing to a little child.' Kagome thought angerly while imaging snapping the woman in two. Sesshomaru had sensed her aura change to anger when he spoke about Makoto's influences. Out of instincts as if his own mate was in distress, he grabbed her by the waist gently, pulling her on his lap.

Kagome gasped softly when Sesshomaru pulled her gently on his lap. 'I'm on his lap again! But some reason, I'm not ashamed or nervous.' Kagome thought bewilder before smiling and cuddling in his lap as Sesshomaru start stroking her cheek gently. "It's wise to stay calm and rest the nerves. When times come to protecting your pups from danger, you'll have to remain calm to let them know they are safe from harm. It is a way to make them calm and have confidence in their mother's protection." Sesshomaru said in a soft gentle tone as Kagome looks up at him with soft warm eyes.

Kagome felt calmed and blushes when he starts stroking her cheek softly. She felt butterflies in her stomach as her mind tells her to kiss him. Building up the confidence, she slowly inch her way up, closing the gap between them. She can feel him leaning in as well; their lips nearly close until Sesshomaru pulled back a bit, frowning a little." How long are you going to stay in the shadows….Takeshi." Sesshomaru blurted out as Kagome looked at him confused, wondering where Takeshi could be hiding from.

Kagome lets out a scream as Takeshi slowly comes out from a shadow in the wall, his irises glowing light grey blue then dies down to those original dark gray blue once he was in full view, pain written on his face with his ears pushes back, shielding from Kagome's scream. Kagome's scream made both of the youkais wince in pain, especially for Sesshomaru since she's in his lap. Seeing the pain on their face she apologies over and over then glares over at Takeshi. "Darn it Takeshi! How many times are you going to scare me in one day?! Goodness you could at least somehow make your presence known or something!" Kagome shouted a bit, shaking in fright a little in Sesshomaru's lap while having a tight grip on his front haori. Takeshi snickered as Sesshomaru looks down at her hand then at Takeshi, who was trying his best not to laugh. "Takeshi is a kage okami, hence in the name; he has the skills of an assassin and much more. Shadows and dark nights are in his specialty.

Takeshi cleared his throat, finally pushing back the laughter and bows. "My Lord, I have come with news." Takeshi said, rising up from his bow. Sesshomaru glances down at Kagome then gently pull her off his lap. "You should head off to bed, Kagome. Takeshi and I have a private matter to attend." Taking the suggestion and him calling her by her name, Kagome nodded in understandings, making her way towards the doors. Before Takeshi could touch the doors, Kagome pushes open the doors as if they were nothing. Takeshi jaw dropped in amazement at Kagome's new strength considering the mahogany doors are huge, thick, and heavy weighted. Even a normal human would struggle a bit to open the doors. Kagome looks over Takeshi and chuckled at his face expression, heading down the hall as she can feel her miko's power corresponding well to the unknown powers, giving her a new feel of strength and confidence.

As Kagome's figure disappeared down the hall, Takeshi quickly changed his expression as he look toward his Lord. "What news have you brought me Takeshi?" Sesshomaru asked in his usual mono-tone. "My spies have reported of the finding of your brother, Inuyasha. It would seem he is living in a village with the dead miko, Kikyo, follow by three others with a nekomata." Takeshi stated as he watches for any signs of reactions from his Lord. 'Hn, what a fool of a brother I have, playing around with a dead miko.' Sesshomaru thought as Takeshi continues. "Many times they speak of Kagome, worrying if she is okay. The three other, a monk, demon slayer, and a fox demon took flight in search of Kagome until night falls and returned to the village. The spy also took the time to listen to their conversation in the hut they reside. Then he took in the matters that you seek, Lord Sesshomaru. He had told them of Kagome's well beings and that she's residing within the castles. And he also witnesses the evil deed of the miko." That had made Sesshomaru interested as he turned his head toward Takeshi.

-Spy's Flashback-

The night had fallen as a fire in the middle of the hut flickers, warming and lighting up the small space with a soft glow. Around the fired sat six people and a nekomata curled up next to her master. "I can't believe she's gone." The orange-haired kitsune known as Shippo, spoke tears in his eyes as the thoughts of his mother figure being gone. "Yes, it's hardly unbelievable for Kagome to be gone. This isn't really like her." A tall male with black hair and wearing a purple robe, known as Miroku, holding a woman, his wife Sango, rubbing her back to sooth her short sobbings. "I just don't understand why she'll disappear like that…or maybe I do." Sango said, sneering over at the dead woman who is cuddling up next to the half demon, Inuyasha. "Would you three cut it out, I'm sure she's okay. I smelt a little blood, but seem like nothing she can't handle. You two just need to relax, I'm sure she'll come back." Inuyasha flatly said before staring down at Kikyo, who in return looking up at him.

"Stay calm?! Inuyasha you idiot! How can we when she is out there defenseless or could be too tired to fight back any demons?!" Shippo yelled, standing up with a clenched fist and baring his fangs, tears dwelling in his green eyes. The years served him well as he grew in height and the fox training helps him build his body and confidence in strength. "I know that you little runt! But I know she is okay!" Inuyasha growled, standing up as well, towering over Shippo, who stood at the height of his waist, daring him to challenge him. "Now now, there is no need for violence. We all miss Kagome terribly. I'm sure the child will show up eventually. All we can do is to wait during nights, and search by day." The sixth person, who looks elderly with an eye patch over her eye right eye and his wearing a traditional red and white miko's clothing, known has Kaede spoke, trying to bring peace in the hut.

Inuyasha and Shippo both huffed and sat back down until they heard the sound of Kirara hissing and standing up, her fur ruffling. "Kirara? What's the matter girl?" Sango asked as she picks her up, soothing her down by stroking her fur as a voice spoke, its vocals echoing around the hut. "It would seem you all are worried of Kagome." A shadow figure appeared with half its body peeking out from a shadow in the wall. Everyone stood up in defense, Inuyasha's hand being on Tessaiga spoke before the rest. "Who are you?! And where is Kagome?!" Inuyasha growled out. "There is no need to be so hostile. The Kagome you have been looking for is well and residing in My Lord's Castle." The mysterious figure answered. "Residing in a Castle? And in what Castle would Kagome be captive in?" Miroku questioned next, trying to keep calm between him and his friends. "Captive? No you have it wrong; she's merely…becoming accustomed. For you see, she's starting to become a liking to My Lord and the same for her towards him, especially after what had happened to her." The figure stated, glancing over at Inuyasha and Kikyo. Inuyasha snorted and looked away until Kikyo grabbed his haori sleeve. "Do not feel at fault Inuyasha. What she did is her own choice alone." Kikyo said, finally speaking and reassuring Inuyasha.

"Oh but I do believe it is you two that is at fault, but of course My Lord does feel generous of telling you where she is so maybe you could visit her." The figure said, chuckling a little. "Tell me strange demon, who could this Lord you speak of be?" Kaede asked, taking a few towards the figure. "Ah, so you want to know eh?" the figure chuckles again as he heard Inuyasha growl in frustration, drawing out his tessaiga. "Look here, if you're going to keep playing games, I suggest you quit it out and tell us where Kagome is!" Inuyasha said in a tone of annoyance.

"Very well, as for your question elderly miko, the Lord I speak of is Lord Sesshomaru and where could she be? Well of course the Western Palace. Now that I have done my job, I'll leave you all to your thinking. Oh by the way if you plan to leave now, I wouldn't recommend it especially towards your human friends Inuyasha." The figure laughed as he disappeared quickly back into the shadow, its laugh echoing in the hut before it completely disappeared.

"Damn it!" Inuyasha cursed, sheathing his sword back into the sheath. "It would seem like he had left. Inuyasha do you really think your older brother has Kagome?" Miroku asked, taking a seat back down. "I doubt it; Sesshomaru doesn't really take in humans." Inuyasha frowned, sitting back down. "Then what about that little girl that always travels with him?" Sango asked, sitting back down as Miroku wrapped his arm once more around her. "I don't know for sure. Just know she had been revived by his tenseiga and has been following him ever since." Inuyasha presume as he watches Kaede goes over to the other side of the hut, grabbing the tea pot. "How about we drink some tea and head for bed. It would be wise to wake up early dawn with clear heads before going on a journey to the West." Kaede suggested. "Allow me to help you little sister." Kikyo offered, walking over to Kaede, grabbing the pestle and mortar, crushing the herbs to make the tea as Kaede placed the pot full of water over the fire.

Everyone fell silent as Kikyo places the herbs in the boiling water before grabbing the pot, then pour the herbal tea into small cups for everyone. "I really hope mama is okay. For mama to be at Sesshomaru's castle, who knows what terrible things he could be doing to her," Shippo said, looking down at the ground as Kikyo starts to place a cup in front of everyone. "Don't worry Shippo, I'm sure she's fine. She's a tough girl that can stand her grounds firmly. No way she's going to let some Lord like him have himself walk all over her." Sango said with confidence as she took a sip of her tea. "I know. That's what scares me..." Shippo half admitted as he too took a sip of his tea.

Everyone fell silent again, sipping their tea with Kagome on their minds, all but one. Kirara took the offer of milk from Kikyo as she watches in tentatively, narrowing her eyes a bit. 'Hmmm…that's weird….I'm starting to feel very sleepy…" Miroku thought as he glances over to Kikyo, who hasn't touched her tea yet. 'No she couldn't possibly…' before Miroku could finish is thoughts, he felt his body go numb and his vision blurring. From what he can hear, Kaede was cursing at her sister for putting sleeping sedative in their tea and Inuyasha blaring out her name. His eyes gotten heavy then closed, sleep consuming him and everyone else, except Kikyo who had gotten up, grabbed her bow and arrows and heads out the hut. 'I'm sorry Inuyasha, but I must do this in order to be human and live in relief of not dying sooner or later. I really want to be with you Inuyasha, even which means killing my reincarnation to gain my soul.' She said deeply in her thoughts, heading down the road toward west, heading for the Western Palace. The figure appeared again from a shadow, eyes narrowing as he watches the miko walked down the path heading west. 'She is an interesting miko…Takeshi needs to know this…'

-Spy's flashback End-

Sesshomaru smirked, imaging his idiot of a brother's reaction. Once again Takeshi continues, "She seem to use a sleeping sedative, mixing it in their tea and is on pursuit to here." Sesshomaru stood up, his stoic composure still intact as he walked by Takeshi, taking in all the information while heading toward his room. 'I wonder what's on your mind Lord Sesshomaru. What could you possibly be up to?' Takeshi wonders as his eyes lit up again to light gray-blue, crawling back into the shadow in the wall.

Kagome sighed in relief as she falls back on the bed. She had taken a long bath when she made it to her room. Now dressed in a blue sleeping yuakta, she turned to her side, the almost kiss stuck in her mind. 'We almost kissed until Takeshi came in.' Kagome thought until she remember Michio telling her about the room she is in, being the future mate's room, and how the hot spring she is going in is conjoined to Sesshomaru's room before bowing and bid her a good night.

'Does Sesshomaru find me worth mating? Or does he actually develop feelings towards me?' Kagome buried her face more on the fur blanket, groaning lowly in frustration then continues on with her thinking. 'Or is it me that is falling for him? I wonder if he is his room now.' Kagome got off from the bed and head towards the springs.

She slides the door quietly then quickly but silently made her way to the other door that leads to Sesshomaru's room. She took a deep breath then quietly opens the door, tip toeing, trying her best to see in the dim yet somewhat moonlight room. There across from her, laid Sesshomaru in his bed. From what she can see, he still had his pants on, but is shirtless.

Sesshomaru walks into his room, sliding the door behind him then start sliding his haori off while making his way over to his bed. He placed his haori on a stand before sitting down on his bed, sliding his shoes off. His mind is still on the information, wondering why the dead miko insist of coming to his Castle alone. Closing his eyes, he lay back on his bed; taking in a breath then releases it, relaxing.

If the door from her room didn't catch his attention, it'll be her quick pace across the moist pavement in the springs. Sesshomaru listens to Kagome making her way toward his bed. He felt her weight next to him, half her body hovering over his. Her silky soft hair brushing lightly on his bare chest as some of it towering on the side of his head, her black hair mixing with his silver, as her warm breath lightly brushes against his lips.

Kagome's mind is racing, but she quickly pushed them aside. She is going to kiss him; no she will kiss him no matter what. She leans down slowly, trying her best not to wake him, closing her eyes and gently placed her lips on Sesshomaru's.

Sesshomaru just lays there for a moment before slowly wrapping his arms around her waist as he half opened his eyes, to be staring at brown ones. Kagome didn't care if she got caught; she just wanted to kiss those soft warm lips of his. She pulled away from the kiss, smiling. "Sesshomaru…Can I sleep with you tonight?" Kagome asked in a gentle whisper, petting his mokomoko while receiving a soft purr from him then a nod.

Kagome giggled and kept smiling as she lays down, slightly on his chest, her head resting on his mokomoko while the rest of his mokomoko tangle up around her legs and up to her hips, cuddling. The one thing that runs through Sesshomaru's mind is that she fits perfectly up against him.

He never wants to let go or be a part from her. Sesshomaru tighten his hold on her as he can hear her breathing steady, having to fall asleep already. He closed his eyes and relaxes, slowly feeling himself drifting to sleep.

This will be the night he can finally sleep in peace with the most beautiful creature in his arms.

A/N: phew, I'm tired guys but there you go, chapter 7, hope you like it and R&R.