HEY GUYS!!!!!!!

Sorry I haven't updated in a while but I just haven't had the time with school and all the other hectic things going on in my life. I hope you guys like the update. Expect more soon. I don't want to give you an exact time frame of anything because I don't want any of my readers to be disappointed if they don't see anything new in like the next couple of weeks. I've started the next chapter for this story and already started brainstorming on a new fic that I'm so SIKED about!!!! ^_^

But anyway, read and review!!!! Enjoy!!!!

One Night

Chapter 5 Bonded

As the sun settled itself behind the mountains signaling another passing day, Ah-Un landed on the threshold of the castle gates where Kagome slid off and stared at the elaborate structure. With a deep breath, she gathered Ah-Un's reins and led him back to his stable. As she secured the demon in its place, her thoughts surfaced.

I'm sure Inuyasha will understand one day. He has to. She clutched her hands together and brought them to her chest. The others were able to understand. I mean sure I know how I went about it was wrong but even Inuyasha must understand you can't ignore your heart. Didn't he listen to his heart when he fell in love with Kikyo all those years ago?

She'd become so lost in her thoughts that she didn't notice herself walk into the palace. The warmth was welcomed as she leaned against one of the walls.

"Kagome you're back!!!" The sound of Shippo's excited voice greeted her as a lump of fur dashed into her arms. Rin was not too far behind, panting heavily from trying to keep up with the demon child. The girl smiled up at the miko once she recognized the she was indeed her mistress.

"Hey Shippo. Hi Rin. Are you two keeping out of trouble?" She asked shifting Shippo in her arms so she could look at him. He shook his head vigorously.

"Yea…. Me and Rin have been playing with Jaken all day. He's more fun than I thought." He said with a smile. Just as the words left Shippo's mouth, Jaken came barreling around the corner waving his staff wildly in the air.

"Hey you two!!! Stop running through the castle halls!! And get back here and clean up the mess you made in the master's study. I swear I don't understand why Lord Sesshoumaru has put up with you imbeciles today." The toad looking demon stopped his ranting and froze upon seeing Kagome.

"Oh so you decide to return wench? I was sure you'd gone back to the half breed. You reek of him." Kagome rolled her eyes at his words. She really didn't need this right now. She wanted to find Sesshoumaru.

"It's a shame the master allowed himself to become ensnared in your spell witch." Jaken muttered with a hint of anger. The miko's eyes lowered.

"What are you talking about?" Jaken let out a 'humph.'

"Well girl, you must have cast some sort of spell on my Lord for him to act out of his usual character. He hasn't left his quarters all day and he's nearly neglected his duties as lord of the Western lands. I assume it was due to your absence, which in my opinion was welcomed." The small servant closed his eyes and nodded his head matter of factly. Shippo jumped from Kagome's embrace and touched his chin, a motion he only did when he was thinking hard.

"Come to think of it Sesshoumaru hasn't been out of his room all day. Me and Rin went to check on him and he didn't even budge. When a servant girl came to give him food, he threw it and nearly scared the girl to death."

"I think Lord Sesshoumaru missed you Kagome." Rin said with a smile as she jumped around happily. Kagome let a soft smile cross her lips as she ruffled a few strands of the girl's dark hair.

"Well then I better not keep him waiting." She whispered as she left the two children and made her way down the hall. Passing a few open doors Kagome stopped in front of the only closed shoji screen. With a deep breath, she pressed her hand on the screen door and gently slid it open. The sight before her caused her to release the breath she had been holding.

Sesshoumaru stood by the far wall leaned against the open window. His golden eyes were hard as he watched the starless sky. The slight wind that entered the room caused a few strands of his silver hair to move slightly. The rays of the moonlight bounced off his bare chest, causing his skin to look pale. Though his back was to her, Kagome could see the demon tense as she stepped into the room.

Though Sesshoumaru did not turn to face her, he knew she was there. He had felt her presence the moment she'd returned. Though he wouldn't admit to anyone that he missed her, waking up in the morning to find the miko gone had left him hurt, disappointed, and most of all afraid. Hurt because the girl had slipped off in the middle of the night without informing him or at least giving him a clue to her whereabouts. Disappointed because he thought he made it clear to the vixen that he didn't want her near his half breed of a brother. And afraid because even though he voiced his wishes, he feared that if Kagome saw Inuyasha again, her feelings for him would return and she'd abandon the demon lord who loved her.

Sesshoumaru let a sigh escape him as he pressed his lips together in a thin line. He closed his eyes as his thoughts raced before him. He was only brought back to reality when he felt Kagome's small hand press against his back. His hard muscles flinched involuntarily at her soft touch. Seeing the reaction she caused, Kagome bit her lower lip before stepping further into his shadow. With a sigh, she wrapped her slender arms around his chest from behind, and pressed her cheek against his back, welcoming the bodily warmth.

"I'm sorry." She whispered loud enough so that the demon lord could only pick the message up with his demonic hearing. Sesshoumaru opened his eyes. He was sure if he turned to her she could see the rush of emotions in his eyes. He bit back the urge to hold the miko in his arms, to kiss her, and to make love to her, all in attempts to remind her that he loved her though he may never openly voice it.

"I'm not going back." She whispered again. Sesshoumaru wanted to speak but found his voice hitched in his throat. He felt the girl's face press harder into his hard back as her fingers traced the contours of his muscles. "I gave him the Shikon no Tama."

The words surprisingly shocked the demon lord. She'd given the hanyou the only item that tied her to him. Without it, she had no need to go back. Sesshoumaru fought the grin that threatened to cross his lips. Instead he settled for a soft grunt. He couldn't describe the relief of his heart. Knowing she'd severed all ties with the hanyou, he knew she belonged to him now. But still, he was the demon lord of the Western lands, and no one could escape his wrath after disobeying his wishes. Steeling his eyes from displaying his raging emotions, Sesshoumaru removed Kagome's arms from around his body and turned to her. He held her wrist in her hands. In one move, Sesshoumaru jerked Kagome's body to him, pressing her against his heated skin. Kagome gasped at the coldness of Sesshoumaru's eyes, something she'd forgotten he could possess.

"Well then miko… I hope you're content with your decision." He bit out before releasing her arm and walking out of the room, leaving a confused woman in his wake.

He's acting childish, Kagome thought angrily as she paced back and forth in the room she'd shared with the demon lord. Her anger spurred from Sesshoumaru's resolve to avoid her throughout the days, and barely talk to her during the nights, leaving her with only nods and sighs during conversations.

It had been two weeks since she went and saw Inuyasha. Two weeks since she'd apologized to the Western Lord for disappearing into the night. Two weeks that he'd known he had nothing to worry about and that she belonged to only him. And it's been two weeks that Sesshoumaru gave the miko the cold shoulder. At first, Kagome took it, feeling as though it was the least she deserved. But after a week passed and Sesshoumaru barely uttered a word to her, the silence began to take its toll on the girl.

Kagome plopped her body on the large bed with a thud, bouncing gently on the furs. As she snuggled into the warmth of the furs, another thought passed her mind. It had been weeks since Sesshoumaru touched her. Since they day she'd returned, the demon had not laid a hand on her. It seemed, to her, that he took special care not to touch her, as if she were a disease. The thought sent a shiver through the miko.

Is he repulsed by me? She thought as she felt the makings of tears form behind her eyes. She began to sob silently as her body yearned for the touch of the demon lord more than ever. She wanted his mouth upon hers. She wanted his hands to roam her body the way they'd done so many times already. She wanted to feel the heat of his skin against hers as he pressed their bodies together, locking themselves in passion. She wanted to feel the pure ecstasy that her body could only feel when she was with the demon lord.

Her thoughts only caused her to sob harder. She missed him. He had to know that. He had to see what the silence was doing to her. She was torn from her musings at the sound of the door sliding open. She glanced over to see Sesshoumaru step into the room and close the door behind him. She took a glance into his eyes, not surprised that they were the same solid gold orbs she'd been seeing for the past two weeks.

She held her breath as he walked towards her, only to release it when he turned towards the balcony. She heard the rustle of clothes behind her. With curiosity getting the better of her, she spared a glance at the demon lord. She was surprised to see him rid of his armor and usual kimono, only to replace them with a different white kimono. Without a word to the woman in the bed, Sesshoumaru turned on his heel and left the room, just as silently as he came.

Kagome let a sigh fall from her lips as the door closed. She knew where he was going. She sat up slowly and wiped her eyes free of tears. A look of determination rested on her face.

Come on Kagome. There's no point in crying. If you going to fix this then get your butt up and fix it! The little pep talk with herself gave her a new ounce of courage. With her decision made, she rose to her feet and walked out of the room. Where she was going wasn't far. She counted the doors as she walked down the castle hall. One, Two, Three, Four… at the fifth door she stopped. She took a deep breath. No, she wasn't going to back down. She wanted to fix this. She needed to fix this. With her mind made up, she pressed the palm of her hand against the door, slid it open, and stepped inside. The steam that settled in the room made her begin to sweat, through the thick air, she could make out Sesshoumaru's form as he rested against the edge of the indoor hot spring.

With her clothes beginning to stick to her moist body, Kagome quickly shed the garments off and let them fall to the floor. She silently walked to the edge of the pool and slid into the water. The heat from the pool caused her to sweat even more. She could still see the demon lord with his back facing her. She slowly swam to him, until she was within arms reach.

"Do you need something?" Sesshoumaru's cold voice cut her. It was the longest sentence he'd spoken to her in days. Her hand reached out to touch him, but she pulled it back at the last moment.

"Sesshoumaru… why won't you talk to me?" Her voice was barely above a whisper, but she knew he heard. He turned to her, his eyes locking on her face.

"What is it you wish to talk about miko?" His voice remained even as he spoke. Kagome took a deep breathe.

"You…me…everything. You've been avoiding me for two weeks." As she spoke, she wrapped her arms around herself, despite the fact that the heat from the spring flowed through her body. "I feel as though my apology meant nothing. You don't even touch me the way you used to. Are you that angry that you want nothing to do with me?" Kagome took a glance into Sesshoumaru's eyes. They stared at her, and she shivered at the fact that the only thing she could make out in his depths was anger. She took a few cautious steps towards him. She pressed her palm against his moist flesh, feeling his hard muscles jolt to her simple touch. She could feel his chest rise and fall with every breath he took.

Sesshoumaru stared down at the miko as her hands traveled across his skin. He withheld a shudder as he felt her soft lips press against his chest. He watched intently as Kagome traveled her kisses from his chest to his mouth, leaving a sizzling trail across his neck. Though his body was tense under her touch, Kagome brought her lips to his in a soft, chaste kiss. Feeling him unresponsive, she backed up a few inches, leaving her lips just a few inches from his, feeling his breath fan across her lips.

Feeling as though he truly wanted nothing to do with her, Kagome lowered her eyes and made a move to step away from him. She was surprised when she felt the demon grab her forcefully, and press her body fully against his. His mouth towered over hers, locking her in their first passionate kiss in weeks. Sesshoumaru's mouth searched hers as he drove his tongue into her wet cavern, deepening the kiss. He pressed their bodies closer together as Kagome buried her hands in the demon's silver hair.

Kagome moaned into Sesshoumaru's mouth as their tongues danced. Pressing herself into his body, Kagome recognized the familiar feeling of something hard pressed against the inside of her thigh. A gasp escaped her as Sesshoumaru pushed his hard member against her folds, causing her to wrap one of her legs around the demon's waist. A hiss of pleasure escaped him as he felt one of Kagome's hands travel from his hair into the water, where her fingertips brushed lightly against his hardened length. The slight contact sent a new wave of pleasure through the demon as he grabbed Kagome's waist and walked her backwards until she was pressed firmly against one of the boulders on the side of the spring.

Her hard nipples pressed against his chest, the contact creating a heat that could not be rivaled by the heat of the hot spring. Sesshoumaru gripped her tightly as he continued to kiss her vigorously. Just as suddenly as he began, he pushed himself away from her, breaking the kiss that was already leading to something much more. The two of them breathed heavily as they stared into each other's eyes; one pair a deep brown that was glazed over with lust and passion, the other a fiery red which reflected his own desire to take the girl right then and there . Slowly coming back to her senses, Kagome noticed how Sesshoumaru tightened his hands into fist, struggling to keep the demon within at bay.

"Sesshoumaru…wha…" she whispered, still trying to regain her breath. A loud sigh escaped him.

"I must go." He bit out, disregarding the look of confusion plain on the girls face.

"Wait…" she called quickly, trying to follow him through the water as she watched him lift his body from the pool, gather his clothing, and leave the room.

Sesshoumaru slid the screen door open, stepped into his dimly lit chambers, and quickly slid the door closed behind him. With a sigh, he allowed his long body to fall onto the bed and his thoughts to consume him. The miko had no idea how hard this was for him. She had no clue how much he wanted to hold her, to kiss her, to feel her; but at the same time he needed to teach her a lesson. He needed to teach her to never go against the words of the Western Lord.

He had been doing well for the past few weeks: Avoiding her whenever he found himself yearning for her company, which happened whenever he wasn't preoccupied with his kingdom duties. With a grunt, he shifted his body against the furs on the bed, which only heightened his sexual frustration as his throbbing erection rubbed against the fabrics of the bed.

How he wished he didn't have such a stubborn will. Then he would allow himself to indulge in taking the miko how he wanted. He would enjoy tasting her flesh against his mouth. He would unwind to the sound of her voice moaning his name as he sent her into unimaginable ecstasy.

He'd never admit it verbally, but he missed the miko, and the thought and images of her flushed face was not helping his resolve. With a few deep breathes, he demon lord calmed himself, allowing his sexual energy to be buried beneath his hardened exterior. With his mask firmly in place, Sesshoumaru stood to his feet. He quickly slipped out of his bathrobe and pulled on his traditional red and white kimono with his armor.

Though he was no where near her, he could still pick up the faint trace of her scent. He needed to get away and rethink his situation. A quick patrol of the lands should get his mind right enough to think properly. When he returned, he thought, he'd see the miko. But he needed to be able to talk to her without having the intense urge of taking the raven haired vixen against a wall. With a final sigh, Sesshoumaru gathered his swords, attached them to his hip, and in one swift motion, dived out of the open window into the silent night.

The wind blew against his heated skin as Sesshoumaru slowly patrolled the boundary lines of the Western lands. A few hours had already passed since he'd left Kagome at the castle. He knew he couldn't avoid her for the rest of the night, not after what happened in the spring. The mere thought of the miko pressed against his hard body had him anxious to return. With his resolve finally broken, he slowly began to make his return back to the miko. As he slowly floated across the sky, a sudden movement in the darkness caught his attention.

Though he knew it could easily be some slumbering demon in the brush, he still decided to check things out just to be on the safe side. Slowly descending, the demon lord allowed his cold gold eyes to scan the area. His eyes focused on a sudden movement directly in front of him. He placed a hand on the hilt of Tokijen, ready to withdraw it if necessary. Sniffing the air, Sesshoumaru's body tensed as he recognized the scent all to well. A feral growl escaped the demon as he watched Inuyasha step into the open clearing, an evil smile plastered on his face. Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow at the sight of the half demon before him. His blood red eyes reflected nothing but anger and hatred. His red kimono was torn into shreds, and if his body didn't reek of demon blood, Sesshoumaru would have immediately noticed the dry blood that stained his claws.

"Inuyasha, you dare commit pointless slaughter on my lands?" Sesshoumaru slowly withdrew Tokijen as his cold eyes stared at the hanyou intently. Inuyasha cracked the bones in his body in one fluid motion.

"Sesshoumaru…" he said with a snarl as he bared his teeth at his older brother. "I was wondering when the hell you'd show up." His throaty voice echoed in the chilling night air. "Where is Kagome?"

The question caused another growl to escape Sesshoumaru as he raised his sword and pointed the tip directly at Inuyasha.

"You have no more need for her half breed. She has severed all ties with you." Sesshoumaru's voice was cold as he spoke.

"Keh. She's just in denial. She thinks she loves you but I know the truth. Besides… I had her first. She screamed my name before yours; therefore she will always belong to me." Inuyasha barked out as he cracked his knuckled and flexed his claws threateningly. Though the hanyou was right, the mere thought of the miko underneath him caused Sesshoumaru's eyes to bleed red in anger.

"Inuyasha, leave now or I will get rid of you myself." The demon lord barked out. Inuyasha only allowed a small smirk to cross his lips as he focused his red eyes on the demon before him.

"I'd like to see you try." Sesshoumaru growled as he braced himself from Inuyasha's oncoming attack. The possessed half breed charged for his brother, raising his extended claws and sending them forward trying to impale them into his brother's pale skin. With ease the western lord dodged Inuyasha's blows, only to bring his sword up and slice Inuyasha's arm.

"Hn." Inuyasha growled while he stared at the large gash on his arm as it began to ooze blood. Sesshoumaru let out an annoyed sigh.

"Spare me this foolishness Inuyasha. I have much more important matters to attend to than standing here with you." Sesshoumaru arched an eyebrow as he heard another feral growl escape the man in front of him. Through the red tint of his eyes, Sesshoumaru could make out the hatred that radiated from his younger brother.

"You want to go back to her do you? Well… we'll see who gets to her first." In another quick motion, Inuyasha dug his claws into his wound and coated them with blood. He swung his arm forward in a wide arc, releasing his attack relentlessly. Sesshoumaru blocked his attacks with the simple swing of his blade. Lowering his eyes, Sesshoumaru glared at his brother. Gripping his sword tightly, the Western Lord bit back a snarl as he spoke.

"Inuyasha…we will finish this…and you will die."

Kagome stared out into the dark night as a soft, calming breeze blew past her. Though the night was rather warm, she couldn't help but shiver from the coldness that suddenly seized her body. As she hugged her clothing closer to her body trying to ward of the cold, a sigh escaped her lips.

Sesshoumaru had been gone for hours. When she had come back to the room to find him gone she knew he'd gone off on patrol, probably to clear his mind from the events of the hot spring. And that's why she waited for him now in the late hours of the night. She wanted….no needed to speak with him….about everything. His kiss had told her more than she knew before; that the silence and distance was affecting him just as much her. But as she waited for him she couldn't help the cold feeling of dread that over came her. Something was wrong. She needed to go to him.

With her mind made up, she quickly straightened herself up and headed out of the room. Within a few minutes she found herself in Ah-Un's stable, loosening his reigns. She gently patted one of his heads as it nuzzled into her neck.

"Take me to him." The demon stared at Kagome with his gold eyes and only nodded his head. In one swift movement, Kagome position herself on top of Ah-Un with his reigns wrapped tightly around her hands. With on slight jerk, Ah-Un lifted his body, and headed out into the still night.

Another thundering clash echoed through the night air. To Sesshoumaru it felt like hours since he began his battle with his hanyou brother. He suffered little bruises, just a scratch or two. But from the look of him, Inuyasha suffered the most damage. His arm was covered in blood and dirt. He held his side with his uninjured arm, trying to ward of the pain of a few broken ribs. His eyes were still a blood red, which only seemed to intensify as he stared at the demon lord before him. Staring at his brother, Sesshoumaru brought up his sword, swinging it in wide arcs as if taunting the injured half demon.

"You bastard." Inuyasha breathed out in hard, labored breathes. He hated his brother with a passion. He made it seem like it was so easy to defeat him. Though he was injured his body refused to give up. Through the pain, a drive to finally kill his brother pulsed through him. He'd been taunted by Sesshoumaru when they were children. He'd been belittled. He had everything stolen from him. He took her from him. He'd ruined his life. And for it he needed to die. With the thoughts running through his brain, he charged for Sesshoumaru again. With ease the demon lord stepped out of the way, which only made Inuyasha angry. He was about to charge again, but stopped suddenly as a familiar scent hit him.

His red eyes narrowed slightly as he concentrated on the smell that was all too familiar to him. A small grin spread across his lips as his muscles tensed. He stared at Sesshoumaru with a triumphant grin.

"Awww…she's come to see you… Isn't that nice." Inuyasha laughed. His voice was thick and dark. At first Sesshoumaru wasn't sure what his deranged brother was talking about. But then it hit him with full force. Kagome's sweet scent filled him, and he felt a sudden growl form in his chest. He felt his grip around his sword tighten as Kagome's scent came closer.

Damn! Why is she here?! He though as he watched Inuyasha run his tongue across his lips. He could see the hunger and blood lust that coated his red eyes. Gritting his teeth, he cast a single glance in the direction of the scent, only to see the miko on top of Ah-Un, who landed gracefully a few yards away from the battling brother.

At the sight before her, a gasp became caught in Kagome's throat. Sliding off of Ah-Un, she stared at Inuyasha intently.

"Hey there ... Ka…go…me." Inuyasha whispered, pronouncing every syllable in her name. Kagome felt a cold shiver run up her spine as she stared at the half-demon.

"Inuyasha what happened to you?" Kagome finally managed to breath out as she took a small step forward.

"No Kagome. He's allowed himself to become possessed. Do not go near him." Sesshoumaru said sternly. He held out his hand to her. Realizing what he was asking, Kagome took a few steps towards Sesshoumaru until she was able to place her hand in his. Sesshoumaru gripped her hand in his, and pulled her to him until her body was pressed against his. She was startled at the sudden contact. She was even more surprised when he buried his head into her neck, even though he refused to take his eyes off of Inuyasha.

"What are you doing here?" he whispered in her ear. If it hadn't have been for his hand holding her, she would have surely fell to her knees.

"I felt something was wrong. I needed to come see you." She whispered back. Her statement only caused him to lower his head further into her neck as he pressed his warm lips against her skin.

"You need to return to the castle. Wait for me. It is too dangerous for you here." Then he took the chance to close his eyes and enjoy the few minutes of calm that her presence gave. He'd been stubborn in the past few weeks. He'd almost forgotten how it felt to have her in his arms. He was tempted to just leave Inuyasha there and return to the castle with her. But he needed to finish this. He needed to get rid of the thing that threatened his happiness. He opened his eyes again and stared down into her soft brown orbs. He was tempted to kiss her, but he held his control.

"Go." He whispered again. She gripped the furs of his kimono and shook her head defiantly.

"No. I won't leave you." She said. At her words, a muffled laugh reached them.

"Isn't this sweet." Inuyasha called from a distance. "Come on Sesshoumaru… fight me!" he called as he charged for him. A growl escaped Sesshoumaru as he shoved Kagome behind him and held his sword up on the defense. Inuyasha attacked with a newfound strength. Sesshoumaru continuously blocked his attacks, making sure that Kagome remained in the corner of his eye and away form danger.

"Fight me Damn it!!!" The half demon screamed, growing furious at the fact that Sesshoumaru stopped fighting. He wanted him to fight. No…. he needed him to fight.

Sesshoumaru blocked ever attack with ease. He wanted to fight back, but with Kagome so close, he couldn't bring his sword up to attack. A growl escaped him as he brought his sword overhead to stop Inuyasha claws. Sesshoumaru's breathing was calm as he stared into Inuyasha's blood red eyes.

"Inuyasha… I'm finished here." Sesshoumaru whispered as he drove the sword back causing Inuyasha to fumble to the ground. With his eyes trained on his brother, the demon lord stood to his feet and sheathed his sword. As Sesshoumaru turned on his heel and walked away from the half-demon, a new anger began to rise within Inuyasha.

"No… fight me damn it!!!" he called. He watched as Sesshoumaru took long strides away from him and approached Kagome, who was standing a few feet away from him.

"If you won't fight me willingly Sesshoumaru… I'll make you." Inuyasha called as he charged forward. Sesshoumaru was shocked when he felt Inuyasha charge past him. He tensed once he realized exactly what Inuyasha was going to attack... Or rather whom. His gold eyes widened as he saw Kagome stiffen once she realized that she was in Inuyasha's line of sight. It would only take a few precious moments before Inuyasha reached Kagome, and from the looks of it, Kagome was too shocked to think about moving. Seeing the oncoming calamity, Sesshoumaru felt his vision blur with red. A loud growl escaped him as he charged for Inuyasha. She would not be harmed by the likes of him.

Within seconds Sesshoumaru found himself hovered over Kagome, who had closed her eyes waiting for the oncoming blow from Inuyasha. Slowly opening her eyes, she breathed a sigh of relief when she saw Sesshoumaru staring down at her, his golden eyes focused on her. She placed a hand on his chest and gripped his clothing.

"Sess…" She began but stopped when she felt a warm liquid coat her hands. She looked down at her hand to see it stained with crimson blood. A sudden sense of fear and panic filled her as she stared into Sesshoumaru's golden eyes which slowly began to close. She felt his body weight against her as the demon lord began to lose consciousness.

Inuyasha's voice broke into her thoughts. She felt Sesshoumaru's body move slightly, and her eyes widened at the realization that Inuyasha had pulled his arm from the hole he'd created in Sesshoumaru's chest. Sesshoumaru's body fell with a final thud to the ground. Kagome felt the sting of oncoming tears as she fell to her knees at Sesshoumaru's side. She placed a shaking hand on the hole, feeling the urge to puke as she felt his blood on her hands. She lowered her head to his.

"Sesshoumaru…" she whispered through strangled sobs. The demon lord opened his eyes slightly, but they slowly fell again. Kagome felt herself succumb to her tears as she gripped Sesshoumaru's hand, willing him to wake up again. She felt her panic rise as she gripped his hand, only to realize that it was slowly loosing its warmth.

"Look at that fool. This is what he gets. He should never have sacrificed himself." Inuyasha laughed as he took a step forward. At the sound of his voice, Kagome looked up at the half demon. Inuyasha stopped suddenly at the pained look in Kagome's eyes as she stared at the half demon. Tears flowed freely down her face as she gripped Sesshoumaru's kimono.

"Inuyasha…" she breathed her voice evident of anger. "Look at what you have done!!!!" At the sudden strength of her voice, Inuyasha took a step back. His voice had become caught in his throat as he watched her shed tears over her brother's body.

"I swear Inuyasha… if he doesn't live I WILL kill you myself." Inuyasha could make out the hatred in her voice. That alone ignited a sudden unexplainable fear within him. With a final look at the two of them, Inuyasha turned on his heel and ran into the forest darkness.

As Kagome sobbed over Sesshoumaru's body, she felt a cool snout nudge against her ear. She glanced to her side to see Ah-Un hovering near her. Staring into its dark eyes, she knew she needed to get back to the castle.

"Take us home."

"Do you think he's alive??"

"Of course he's alive stupid. If he wasn't he wouldn't be breathing." Shippo said sarcastically as he pressed his ear against Sesshoumaru's chest, which rose and fell slowly with every labored breath he took. They had seen when Kagome and Sesshoumaru had returned to the castle and rushed into the room after them. Since then, the two little ones had been watching over the unconscious lord as he slept.

"Guys let him rest. He needs it." Kagome whispered to the children who immediately quieted themselves. They could see the sadness in her eyes as she looked at him. She'd been at his beside since they returned a few days ago. The three of them sat silently in his quarters as they waited for Sesshoumaru to awaken.

Kagome knew the children were affected by her mood. Since they'd returned from the forest that night, the children weren't as animated as they once were. With a sigh, Kagome placed a soft smile on her face and turned to the children who sat quietly in the corner.

"Hey you too, why don't you get some air? I know you're tired of being cooped up in here with me."

"But Kagome.. We're here to help. Plus we don't want to leave you alone." Shippo said in almost a whine as he stared at the miko. Kagome's brown eyes softened as she looked at them. She stood and went to pat the two of them on the head.

"I know and the two of you have been such great help. But I'll be fine on my own for a little while. You two should go relax for a while and I'll call you when I need you." Shippo looked doubtful for a while, but took Rin's hand after a few minutes.

"Okay… but only for a little while. We'll be back soon." Shippo whispered as he led Rin out of the room and within seconds the two went running down the hall. Kagome let out a sigh as she watched the two of them disappear down the corridor and around the corner. Closing the screen door, she turned towards Sesshoumaru.

She could see the rise and fall of his chest as she approached him. His silver hair was fanned out on the pillow cushions of the bed. She brushed her fingertips against his forehead. Feeling the warmth radiate from him, she reached to a bowl on his bedside and retrieved a wet rag. Ringing the water from it, she folded it neatly and placed the cool material on his forehead. She then allowed her fingers to trace the bone structure of his face, and then traveled down to his shoulders. She traced the vain that protruded from his skin, going further down until she touched the bandages that covered the wound that currently left him in his condition.

With another sigh she stroked Sesshoumaru's pale skin. Closing her eyes, she leaned her head on the bed, burying her face into his side. She needed him to wake up. He was the demon lord of the western lands. She needed him to come back to her. Seeing him like this was tearing her up inside. She stifled a sob as she gripped the silk sheets that covered his body.

"Sesshoumaru…." Kagome choked out. She was lost in her thought when she felt a clawed hand run through her hair. Her head shot up quickly to see Sesshoumaru staring down at her. His eyes were tinted red as he stared down at her and he was breathing hard. Staring at him, Kagome couldn't help the tears that spilled from her eyes. She slipped into the bed next to him while trying not to move him. She buried her face into his neck as Sesshoumaru wrapped his strong arms around her tightly and inhaled her scent. As the scent of her filled him, he could feel the red in his eyes disappear, returning into their original molten gold. He gently pressed his lips against her forehead as he took a deep breathe.

"How long has it been?" His voice was husky as he spoke for the first time in days.

"Four days." Kagome managed to whisper once she swallowed the lump in her throat.

"Hn." He simply said as he moved to make himself more comfortable against the miko.

"I'm glad you're alright. You had me worried you know. I wasn't sure you'd make it for a minute there." Sesshoumaru could feel the hot tear that fell on his shoulder as she spoke.

"Ridiculous. I have too many unfulfilled responsibilities in this world to leave it behind." He closed his eyes as he stroked her arm with his claws. He could feel her slightly shiver under his touch.

"Yea but you were…"

"Shhhhh." He whispered as she held her. The two of them lay there quietly. Kagome could feel the relief of having him back wash through her. She gripped him tightly, fearing that if she let him go she'd wake up from her dream.

He held her, refusing to let go. He needed his miko with him. He wanted his lover by his side. Feeling her body relax under his touch, he knew she'd fallen asleep. With a content sigh, Sesshoumaru allowed his eyes to close. He wouldn't let sleep claim him so easily. He'd been sleep for four days already. Beside, he already decided; he would rather watch her through the night.

Kagome stirred within his embrace. Her eyes opened slowly only to lock onto the open window of the room. Night had fallen, and the miko could see the moon as it coated its light within the room, making it into a mystical chamber. Allowing her body to become fully awake, Kagome stretched her limbs, enjoying the way they brushed against Sesshoumaru's taunt muscles. She felt him shift beneath her. Hoping to find him sleeping, she looked up only to find herself locked in a piercing gaze with his golden eyes. Tracing a finger over his bottom lip, Kagome's breathe caught in her through when she felt his moist tongue run over the appendage before sucking it fully into his mouth. She shifted slightly, bringing her face closer to his. Staring in his eyes, she could easily make out the passion that glistened in them. It was something she knew only she had the privilege to see. She'd known it from the very fist night they had been together in the forest.

Letting her finger go, Sesshoumaru allowed her hand to fall back to his chest, only to lock her in a passionate kiss. He started slow at first, relishing in the taste of her that he'd nearly forgotten. It had been weeks since he felt her lips upon his, and the effect was immediate. He could feel the sudden strain in his manhood caused by his hakama. If he could see himself now he'd laugh. He, the demon lord, had fallen so quickly into a pool of desire with just a simple kiss. Kagome ran her hand along his chest, each touch leaving Sesshoumaru with a tingling sensation. He deepened the kiss, allowing his tongue to explore the wet cavern of her mouth. Slowly pulling away, he nibbled on her bottom lip, smirking at the glazed look that was in her eyes.

Shifting his body, he turned so that Kagome was beneath him. She looked up at him, and ran a hand through the silver locks of his hair. He never removed his gaze from her, even as he leaned forward and kissed her again. This kiss was heated, passionate, and demanding. Pressing himself closer to her, Kagome could feel his hard member as it pressed against her thigh.

A low moan escaped her as he kissed her. She spread her legs enough for him to settle himself in the small space she provided. Breaking the kiss, he began trailing butterfly kisses along her jaw and neck, stopping at the juncture where her neck and shoulder joined. Flicking his tongue out, he caressed the small area, gripping her tighter as she shuddered underneath the touch. He gently brushed his fangs against her skin there, causing a slight gasp to escape her. On instincts, Kagome buried her hands furthering into his hair. As he moved further down her body, Sesshoumaru parted the fabric of her kimono revealing more of her skin and gently placing butterfly kisses on the newly exposed flesh.

A grin spread across his lips as he felt her body jerk in response to his claws as they gently ran across her skin. With her kimono completely removed, Sesshoumaru sat up a little to admire the miko below him. He could feel his inner beast rattle its chains as his eyes soaked the image of her in. Kagome laid there, her pale body taking in a pink hinge as the blood of desire pulsed through her veins. Her chest rose and fell as she took deep, labored breathes in an attempt to regain her sense. Just the sight of her was enough for the demon lord to lose control. His vision blurred red as he lowered himself to her womanhood and allowed the scent of her to engulf him as it did many times before.

Kagome felt her body arch upward as she felt Sesshoumaru's heated tongue slide against her womanly folds. Gripping the silk sheets on either side of her, a low moan escaped Kagome as she felt the tongue of her lover pleasure her in so many ways. Sesshoumaru gripped her thighs to keep her steady as he devoured the juices that began to flow from her. Plunging his tongue deep inside of her, he felt her inner walls tighten slightly. His eyes bled red even more as the essence of her fell onto his tongue. A low growl escaped him as he felt Kagome entwine her fingers into the silver locks of his hair.

"Sess…Sesshoumaru…." Kagome moaned as she bit her bottom lip in an attempt to keep her scream of pleasure at bay. The pace of his tongue quickened as he felt her body tense. Feeling her close to release, Sesshoumaru allowed his tongue to wrap around the bundle of nerves that presented itself. Sucking gently, he pulled her body closer to him as he buried himself with her womanhood.

"Sesshoumaru…." His name became caught in her throat as she gasped, allowing her orgasm to pound through her body. After allowing swallowing the juices that flowed into her mouth with eagerness, Sesshoumaru brought is body up to rest gently on top of her. She gently ran her fingers through his hair as she allowed herself to fall back to earth from her climax. He placed soft kisses against her neck and shoulder trying to calm her nerves.

"Sesshoumaru…." She whispered once her voice had returned.

"Hn?"

"I want to be yours for eternity." At her words the demon lord stopped his chaste kisses and stared directly at her. The red tint in his eyes had slowly began to recede as he stared into Kagome's large brown orbs which were filled with lust, desire, and love.

"Are you sure?" He breathed as he buried his face into her neck. He took in her scent kissed her skin gently.

"I love you Sesshoumaru. I love you so much. I want to be with you forever. Please." With that said she turned his face towards her and kissed him eagerly. Sesshoumaru responded with his own eagerness as he felt the familiar strain of his member against his clothing. With ease he tore the clothe away from him, leaving the both of them naked. Wasting little time, Sesshoumaru buried himself within her in one thrust. A pleasured scream escaped her upon his entry. She held onto him tightly as she allowed herself to adjust to the size of his manhood which she felt her body had gone too long without.

It was killing him not to be able to move inside of her. He knew she'd need to adjust again, but the desire to pump himself within her was too great. Finally feeling her body relax beneath him, Sesshoumaru pulled himself out slowly only to push himself back in with one swift move. A loud moan met his ears as he slowly picked up the pace. The miko and the demon lord rocked together in harmony as he moved inside of her with steady movements of his hips.

Kagome began to recognize the bright lights that she'd seen the many times the demon lord had mad love to her. Feeling herself close to the edge of her second release, she smiled to herself when she felt Sesshoumaru's pace quicken with his demon speed. Digging her nails into the flesh of his back, she let out a loud scream as her inner muscles tightened around Sesshoumaru's member.

Feeling the sudden strain against him, a deafening snarl escaped the demon as his eyes turned completely red once again. He felt his fangs elongate and with one final thrust his seed spilt into the miko's womb. With the last of his strength, Sesshoumaru bit down into the juncture of Kagome's flesh where her shoulder met her neck. The pain that washed through her could not compare to the feeling of ecstasy that washed through her at that moment.

Allowing their orgasms to pass, Sesshoumaru lifted his body slightly and licked the fresh wound on the miko's neck. The taste of her blood against his tongue was sweet, something he only wanted to experience with her. He could feel his beast finally settle within him after allowing it to claim the girl beneath him. He placed a gentle kiss on the wound and wasn't surprised to see that it had already began to heal to leave a small crescent moon shaped mark.

Kagome ran her hands through his hair as she stared down at him.

"My love. I am yours forever." She whispered before closing her eyes and allowing sleep to claim her. Sesshoumaru removed a few pieces of stray hair that had fallen out of place before settling behind her and pulling her body into the mold of his own. After wrapping the two of them in the furs of his bed, Sesshoumaru pressed a gently kiss on her throat.

"And I am yours." He whispered before closing his eyes and allowing sleep to claim him as well.