My Saviour is My Enemy

Chapter 18: A Long Awaited Reunion

I know, I know. Incredibly late - I ended up losing my outline for the next few chapters, which completely sucks. Also, life happened and such, but a reply did come. I do intend on finishing this story, after all.

Also, in regards to a question following the introduction of Kagura being around Sesshomaru and the feelings implied between the two. I thought I should bring up a small thing. When the story is taking place. This is before Sesshomaru gets Bakusaiga. I see it happening very shortly after the defeat of the Band of Seven, before some of the nastier of Naraku's minions come about. So, as with most fics, things will change, affections are different etc… For example Kouga and Ayame being together so soon. So yeah, no hatred please.

The feedback has been beloved and accepted on both sides of the fence, from both the Dokuga site, and from . Also, this story will be coming, in it's full glory (with some editing because yikes to the earlier chapters) to Ao3. Thank you, to all my readers, and I hope I won't disappoint with this chapter.

Chapter 18: A Long Awaited Reunion

It was a scream that once again tore Kagome from her sleep.

She had jolted awake, quickly looking about, before noticing that Rin was writhing on the bed, her eyes closed and her skin drenched with sweat. Kagome placed a gentle hand on her shoulder, missing the small auburn tailed boy who had also been jostled awake, only to hide behind his mother, clinging to her loose nightgown.

"Rin sweetie, wake up, it's just a nightmare!" She said, concern gripping her chest as the small girl curled into a tight ball, sobbing in her sleep as she whimpered out,

"Don't hurt my mommy anymore…"

She frowned to this, pulling her into her arms as she began to rock her back and forth, she started to hum a soft tune as she sought to soothe the unwanted dreams.

Rin struggled for a moment before calming down, hiccoughs coming free from her as she finally stirred from her sleep, cuddling in closer to Kagome as she said, "The dreams won't go away... Not even Hikari's special sleep tea helps." She knew of the tea she spoke of, brewed from special herbs to give a solid dreamless sleep, or at least that was what was supposed to happen.

It seemed that dreams interrupted by unwanted demons, or heart wrenching memories, could not be suppressed by such concoctions. "I promise you that I'll wake you up, I'll take you away from the bad dreams. Every time." She said softly, kissing the top of Rin's head as she breathed in the soft childlike scent that the girl carried, one that sang of flowers and the innocence of youth.

It was then that she noticed the small weight sagging against her back, it had seemed that despite his fright, the small boy had been comforted by the scent of his mother, enough so to be lulled back to sleep. She turned, only to gasp as she softly breathed, "Oh, Shippou…"

Rin glanced up to this, turning in Kagome's arms to look back at the small boy. "He looks so fluffy!" She exclaimed, her demeanour changing as only a child's could, from fright to excitement within moments. She of course had seen him from afar before, but had never seen him up close, nor experienced seeing how the boy's tail had curled about him in his return to slumber.

She had however seemed to sense Kagome's need to hold the boy, so she moved to sit beside her, watching as she pulled the boy into her arms, holding him close and beginning to softly cry. "Please don't let this be a dream, let it be real…"

"It is real, Kagome. He arrived a few short hours ago with the others from your pack."

Sesshomaru had dashed to the room from his office at the sound of Rin's scream. He had retired there to write up some instructions to be distributed to his staff in the morning in regards to the newest inhabitants of the castle.

They had taken up rooming in the Eastern Wing, the monk and the demon slayer in two rooms connected by an inner door, very much similar to the layout of his and Kagome's room. The two wolves had been placed in a double room, and the wind witch had been placed in a room directly across from theirs. She was currently being attended to by Hikari and Hakkaku, as the young wolf had refused to leave her side for even a moment.

Her presence was one that did not unsettle him as much as he thought it would. He could sense no deception in her aura, nor a trace of Naraku upon her. Instead her aura spoke of a calmness he had not felt while in her presence during their brief encounters in the past. It spoke of relief and acceptance, which he could only assume came from obtaining the freedom she had so long sought out.

He also felt that after she was fully healed, she would truly be a beneficial ally in the war to come. She was strong, determined, and had a fierceness to her that spoke of the warrior beneath the surface.

He had just finished preparing the letters, meant less to inform, and more to assuage his demonic staff in the potential worry that may arise from a known demon slayer living in their midst. He had been prepared to summon Jaken, only for the scream to tear him from his work, his feet barely touching the floors as he arrived at the door to his room, only to see Rin being soothed by Kagome.

He had leaned against the doorframe, a small smile coming to his lips as the sight of the beautiful Miko calming the child stirred up powerful feelings within his chest.

"The pups will work well to sway her mind from that which ails her." His beast commented, obviously concerned for the woman who had been so willing to throw her life away, but hours before.

"Not as well as the presence of her pack mates. They will work well to calm her fears in regards to their views of her. As for the boy, his return is that of a reunion of mother and child. There is little doubt that together he and Rin shall lift her spirits with their presence and future antics alone."

"And what of when she learns of the mutt's absence?"

He internally growled to this, "She will fare better without his abuse and stupidity. The very notion that he gave her up within a week is infuriating."

"Agreed, and if he seeks her out and attempts to take her from here?"

"Then he will be reminded of whom the elder brother is, and the true strength I wield. If she does not wish to leave, no one shall force her. If she chooses to leave, then I will accompany them."

His mind was more than made up in the matter, he would remain by her side, if she would have him, and if her reaction to their kiss hours before spoke of anything, she was accepting of his presence by her side.

When she spoke her soft wish for Shippou's presence to be real he chose to step in, walking forward as he spoke.

He saw her eyes light up at that news, watching as she held the boy close to her heart. He heard the boy's heart race slightly as he woke up, and the sound of Rin's laughter, as the boy jumped up and hugged Kagome close, was a sweet sound that brought a smile to his face.

"Momma! You're here! I knew you were alive! We were so worried about you! Are you okay? What happened? Did that big jerk hurt you?!" His words came out in a flurry and Kagome laughed amidst her tears of joy.

"Yes, I'm here Shippou. I'm safe, Sesshomaru saved me along with Rin! I'm fine, Sesshomaru had the best healers in the land see to me, I'm all better, and you make it even more so!"

He grinned to this, his tail a blur of orange as he gave her the grandest hug he could, given his small stature. She returned the hug, only to see that Rin was hanging back a bit, seeming a bit unsure how to react to the presence of someone who obviously meant so much to the woman that she called mother.

"Shippou, baby. I want you to meet someone very special okay? I know that you may have seen each other a few times before, but I don't think you've ever spoken before. This is Rin, she's going to be your sister."

He turned in her arms as she said this, looking to Rin and giving her a calculating little gaze before cocking his head and smiling. "Hi! I'm Shippou! How did you meet mom?!" He said, only to pause as he slowly became more aware of his surroundings. He gasped and nearly fell out of Kagome's arms as he noticed Sesshomaru, and the fact that his smell was overwhelming in the room. He quickly hopped onto her shoulder and hid in her long hair as he whispered, "Mom, did you know that you were sleeping in Sesshomaru's bed?!"

She laughed to this, even hearing Sesshomaru chuckle as he walked over. Even though this movement caused a slight panic on her shoulder. "Oh no! He's smiling! That's a bad thing! You can't eat her up! She's my mom, and… and... "

He trailed off as he noticed that Sesshomaru's aura was in no way threatening, and that there seemed a kind look behind his eyes, even if his face remained almost stoic behind his slight smile.

Kagome picked him back up in her arms, nuzzling the top of his head with her chin as she said, "Yes, I know I was in here. Sesshomaru… he and I have grown to be rather close to each other."

Sesshomaru watched the boy, smiling to him as he gave a soft growl, speaking to the boy in words that only they could understand.

"I intend to take your mother as my mate, if she will have me. As her pup, I would like to take you into my pack, as my son, alongside Rin. Do you accept this?'

Shippou gaped to this, his jaw dropping slightly as he peered up at Kagome before hopping down on the bed and making his way to the edge of the bed, staring at Sesshomaru. He gave his own growl, his chest puffing up as he did so, much to the confusion of Rin and Kagome.

"Yes, Lord Sesshomaru. I accept this, but you better not hurt her. I've seen her cry herself to sleep too much because of that jerk half-brother of yours. As for being your son…' He suddenly blushed, his ears even glowing a bright red. "I would be honoured, my father always spoke of you and how you were the only Lord he truly trusted."

Sesshomaru nodded to this, giving him a soft smile as he rested his hand upon the top of Shippou's head. "Return to your mother Kit, we can speak more in the morning, when the others are awake as well, and the three of you are well rested."

Shippou nodded, giving Sesshomaru a small smile before crawling back over to Kagome, looking between her and Rin. He seemed to make up his mind about something as he reached out and took Rin's hand before curling up next to Kagome once more, this time staying close to her chest.

Rin was surprised at first before understanding, lying down next to Shippou and smiling as Kagome wrapped her arms around both of them as she looked up to Sesshomaru.

"Will you stay with us?" She asked, running her fingers through Shippou's russet hair, still surprised that he was there with her.

He nodded, making his way to rest behind her, moving a few pillows so that he could look over the small family while he wrapped his arm around her waist. "I will leave after you fall asleep, and return before you awake." He said softly into her ear, feeling as she leaned back against his chest.

Sleep found the three soon enough, and true to his word, he left without disturbing them, leaving behind a portion of his demonic power in the form of his fluffy tail, which curled around Kagome in his absence. It was an ability he utilized rarely, but it was in his belief that perhaps being surrounded by his scent and aura, the three may have a better rest. Even without the small portion of his power, he appeared the same, as he could technically grow or shorten his tail as he needed.

His paperwork took little time, and he found himself walking silently through the halls, pausing as he passed by the Monk's room, where he could hear the man uttering soft prayers, despite the late time. He had questions for the man, and wished to satisfy his curiosity, however he knew that now was not the time, despite the monk being awake.

As he began to make his way back down the hall he paused, hearing the soft sound of the door opening. He turned his attention to the Monk, the man still in his robes as he regarded Sesshomaru for a moment before softly asking, "Forgive me for my intrusion, Lord Sesshomaru. I noticed your aura close by, and was wondering if I may speak to you?"

Sesshomaru gave a slight nod, waiting for Miroku to close his door before leading the man back to his office. Sesshomaru took his seat behind his desk, crossing his legs as Miroku kneeled down before him.

The man regarded him, and his office for a long moment before wasting no time in asking, "Have you taken Lady Kagome as your mate?"

He was no stranger to Demon culture, nor the language that came with it. While he had never formally dealt with a Demon of Sesshomaru's stature, he had spoken to lesser Lords and Ladies in the past. He was accustomed to their mannerisms, and had noted certain terms that Sesshomaru had used in regards to Kagome earlier…

Sesshomaru considered this question for a long moment, seeming to take in Miroku as a whole for a long stretch of silence. He knew of the man from his observations of Kagome and her pack, and from her speaking of the man, of his honour, respect, and lewd nature. Of course the latter did not matter in his eyes, it caused him to be viewed as a fool of course, but to Sesshomaru, nearly all were fools of some manner.

"It is this Sesshomaru's intention, yes. She is a strong, capable, and caring woman who has shown herself worthy of this Sesshomaru's affections." He said simply, his expression as unreadable as always.

Miroku nodded, "I assumed as such, I know that it is highly rare for a noble Alpha demon to take a female as an Alpha without intentions of mating her." He stated, tucking his hands neatly into his sleeves. "I feel no need in asking if she reciprocates these feelings as well, as you are not one to make such decisions so rashly. Nor are you to do so while threatening your own honour, or so the rumours about you would dictate." He added, watching as Sesshomaru slowly arched a brow at him.

"You are correct in your assumptions. This one assumes that you hold affections of a brotherly manner towards her?" He inquired, already knowing the answer, he could see where this conversation was heading. Normally he would be offended, furious even, yet he found it amusing. Here was this wisp of a man, a curse threatening his already laughably short life, and he was taking a protective stance towards the Alpha of his group.

"Yes, I suppose that would be the best description. I have been with her the longest of the adults. I refuse to lump InuYasha with myself and Sango, as he remains a fool hardy child in mind and manner. I have watched Kagome grow, and also suffer at the words and actions of InuYasha. I do not wish to see her harmed further… I bear enough guilt as it is having allowed for him to treat her as he did." He nearly took his gaze from Sesshomaru as he said this, yet he held it strong, the only sign of his internal anger being a slight tensing of his facial features.

There was a small smirk from Sesshomaru at the mention of his brother being akin to a whelp in mind and manner. It was one that suited him well, and one he had admittedly used himself many times. Seeing the Monk blame himself however, that would not do, not with what he knew of the man.

"There were times, when this one would be watching your pack from afar. Times when the pack was upon the Lands of the House of the Moon. It was witnessed that you would take up defense of Lady Kagome, speak out against the harsh words thrown her way. Do not look down upon that which you did Monk, any further action on your part, especially physical, would have no doubt resulted in your death at his claws." He stated this in a matter of fact manner, he meant it to reassure, as he did not want the man to carry such burdens.

It was an action that surprised the both of them, though he himself was the most surprised. It seemed that Kagome's effect on his life was beginning to show greater signs than he knew. He was aware of the Monk, and what he meant to Kagome. He knew that she would be displeased to know that the man blamed himself, when in reality there was little he could have done without endangering himself, and her as well.

Miroku, meanwhile was stunned for a moment before smiling as he said, "She certainly has an effect on people, doesn't she? Each of us when we first came upon the pack had our own mannerisms, and yet, she has influenced us all… Except him. It seems his head is far too thick to gain any empathy, or the actions of those in the past have affected him in such a manner that-"

"It is in his nature to be brash and outspoken. Not only because of his mixed blood, but because of his uprising. Blame lies upon this one for that fact, but greatly more upon his mother. She refused to allow this one and his keep to take the young child in. To properly rear him, and to learn to tame the beast within. This was something she did not want, she believed that her compassion and love alone could do that which it could not. He learned nothing in his years up until her death, and when she had gone from this world, she had poisoned his mind towards this one and his keep. This one also failed to press the issue, anger in regards to our father's early demise clouding what should have been a simple course of action." He explained, allowing for the ghost of a frown as he thought of the years past, and what had become of the last of their father's line.

Miroku considered this for a moment before shaking his head, "He has had chances to change, to show kindness to Kagome, as she has done nothing but do the same. She has even greatly reduced the times she would subdue him, only doing so when it seemed she was concerned for her own fate, or for the fate of one of us. While I hold no doubts that there are circumstances that have led to some of his mannerisms, even as a Demon, he is at an age where he is expected to be responsible for his own actions. Yet he continues to lash out, to think of no one but himself… I have long stopped having excuses for Inuyasha, instead I wish to do what I can to clean up after the mess that he has left in his stead, and attempt to stop him from harming others…"

"You are wise beyond your years, Monk-"

"Please, call me Miroku. I understand that your stature requires you to speak in such a manner, however with your relationship with Kagome, it is obvious that we will be having further interactions, and I personally feel more comfortable if you were just to use my name." Miroku said, giving a small respectful nod of his head as he said so.

"Understood, and if you wish you may simply refer to me as Sesshomaru in turn." He said, honestly pleased for the chance to not to speak in such a restrained manner. He regarded the man for a moment, already thinking of the grand usefulness that he may offer to the pack.

"You no doubt hold great connections with those of your kind, do you not" He inquired, thinking of the monks and priestesses that he often could not converse with, at least not without having a fight ensue.

"Yes, I am aware of most temples within the lands. While I may not have visited those in the Northern reaches, and along the Southern shores, I have been to all within the greater mainland." He said, smiling as he added, "The Head Priest at the Temple of the Moon speaks highly of you, he is one of the few who even mentions Demons in a manner beyond killing them."

Sesshomaru nodded as he said, "There are three other such Temples, the Temple of the Sun in the Eastern Lands, the Temple of the Earth in the North, and the Temple of the Sea in the South. They each serve the Lords and Lady of their chosen Lands, and have been serving their families for many years." Sesshomaru explained, watching as Miroku gave a slight nod of understanding.

"Your connection and reputation with the temples will no doubt be a great aid in the journey to come. There is a Priestess in specific whom we will need to seek out in order to further assist Kagome. There is only so much that can be done in regards to her current condition… and this Priestess can also aid Rin with the terrors that haunt her as she sleeps." Sesshomaru explained, watching as Miroku's face changed from curiosity, to concern, to dawning understanding.

"Ah, no doubt you are speaking of Aikaterine, the Priestess by the South Western shores. I am curious about Kagome's condition, you spoke of her being unwell earlier, are you able to explain more?" Miroku asked, hoping for something, anything to quell the concern rising in his chest. If Sesshomaru was seeking out Aikaterine, then whatever was ailing Kagome was certainly a league above what he had been assuming.

"Yes, she is the one I seek, I have heard tale of her abilities, and her more common name as the Oracle of the Waves. As for Kagome, I will speak with the pack as a whole in regards to her condition, and she will accompany me for this talk. I have no doubts that her pack, as well as the two wolves, and possibly even the Wind Witch will be added to the Pack as a whole by the time we embark from the House of the Moon once more." He said honestly while he thought of his growing pack. But a few short years ago he would have thought it impossible that he was approaching a time when his pack would include not one, but four humans. One of which being a Demon Hunter. Nor would he ever have assumed he would be travelling with the Wind Witch. Yet, there he was, the reality looming upon him. It seemed that both Rin, and Kagome had had a greater effect on his life than he would want to admit.

Miroku nodded as he said, "I will do what I can to assist, I must admit, I know very little of Inu Pack dynamics."

"That is to be expected, Jaken will be a partial aid in assisting, but moreso Rin, as well as Keiji. He will travel with us from time to time. There are other, lesser Generals who will remain here when we are travelling." He explained as he imagined that Keiji would want to be around to protect Kagome, as well as Shippou. In fact, Sesshomaru was intending on having Keiji begin to train Shippou. In most circumstances a pup his age would be further advanced in his abilities, yet his time with Kagome and the others had proven that he gained none whatsoever.

"Of course, I thank you for taking the time to speak with me, Sesshomaru. It is reassuring to know that you have Kagome's best interests at heart. I believe it is time that I retire, as it seems that there is a great deal to be discussed tomorrow, and I would like to be well rested for such a pivotal talk." He said, bowing his head once more as he awaited dismissal by the Great Demon.

"Of course, I should also retire for a short rest. I wish to be there should Kagome or Rin awaken again." Sesshomaru said as he stood, Miroku doing the same as the two made their way from his office. He accompanied the man to his room, bidding him a sound rest before returning to his side by Kagome, looking to the small, yet strange family as he felt a strong sense of pride, and protectiveness. No matter what the days to come would bring, he was determined to keep them safe, from the daughter who reminded him of kindness, the woman who had rekindled his compassion, and the young pup who stood strong despite all that had he had faced.

Despite his lack of need for rest, he allowed himself a small reprieve of his wakefulness. His remained alert enough to awaken if needed, yet rested enough to replenish the little energy he had used within the day.

Kagome woke to the feeling of soft breaths against the back of her neck, and two small bundles gently moving in their sleep. She was hesitant as she opened her eyes, waiting a long couple moments as she anticipated some form of horrific attack on her mind. Yet, none came. Instead she found herself enjoying the sight of Rin slowly waking up, brushing the sleep from her eyes, only to cuddle into Shippou, his fluffy tail one that she began petting. Shippou meanwhile was curled up tightly in Sesshomaru's tail, the white fur contrasting with the rustic tones of Shippou's hair and tail. His little fists wrapped in the fine white strands, and his face pressed up tight against Kagome's chest.

The tail was wound around her, the lower portion nestled between her legs as she hugged it close to her and the children. Yet, there remained a strong arm around her, and the continued breaths along the back of her neck that were sending a small chill down her spine. She turned her head back to glance at Sesshomaru, only to catch his gold eyes staring back at her. She blushed slightly, her gaze slipping from his as she said, "Thank you, for… well, everything."

She had not forgotten what had happened the day before, what she had been prepared to do, and how he had saved her life. He had done so much for her in the course of what had only been a couple weeks, and yet he continued to show her kindness and compassion. It was a welcome change, and yet one she feared, as she was concerned she was going to wake up and find out it was all some cruel dream.

Her attention was returned to him when he brought his hand up, a single digit tucking under her chin as he brought her gaze back up, only to kiss her gently. She returned the kiss, blushing as she did so, feeling his tail shift between her legs.

She pulled back from the kiss, smiling as she softly said, "Your… fluffy thing, has a mind of its own." She poked at it as she said this, gaining a deep chuckle that she felt rumble through her back and side.

"That 'fluffy thing' is my tail. All demons has at least one trait their demonic nature that shows through to their more… humanistic side. Mine, as was my father's, is my tail, which is also a representation of my demonic power. I control its movements, and can extend it and retract it as needed, which can be very useful in battle… and in more intimate moments." He said this in a low tone, knowing that Rin was still in the process of waking up, nuzzling into the bulk of his tail alongside Shippou.

Kagome gaped for a moment before flushing an even deeper shade of red. "I'd always simply assumed it was a demonic representation of your powers… I didn't realize it was your tail! That makes sense though, you are a dog demon…" As she spoke of this she grew a contemplative look, trying in vain not to imagine him in his beast form 'chasing his tail'. This gained him a soft chuckle before she returned her attention to the children, seeing a sleepy pair of green eyes opening as Shippou slowly entered the waking world.

He sat up, giving a wide mouthed yawn before looking to the three other people in the bed. He seemed to take a moment to process things before hugging Kagome once more, burying his face in the crook of her shoulder as they heard a muffled, "I missed you so much!"

She sat up as well, hugging him close with one arm while opening the other to Rin, who quickly moved in for the added affection. She held the pair close, smiling as she felt Sesshomaru move behind her only to rest his hand on her waist, leaning in close to her as he looked down to the pups.

"Do you wish to have breakfast in here? Or would you prefer to reunite with the others?" He asked, knowing already what Kagome's response would be.

She was silent for a moment before tilting her head to the side as she said, "I want to see the others! I've missed them so much."

Shippou nodded to this as he said, "We missed you too, Sango was getting really mad at Ginta and Hakkaku since we were lost, and Miroku was trying to keep her happy, course he got knocked out a bunch of times. I think everyone was worried about Kagura too, she was hurt really bad, even if I still don't know if we should trust her.…" He gave a little thoughtful hum to this before shrugging, grinning as Kagome sighed, shaking her head with a bright smile.

"Wait, Ginta and Hakkaku? What's this about Kagura? When did they join with the pack? How did-" she paused, his name catching on her lips.

Sesshomaru sensed her unease as he said, "I believe it would be best if you brought up such questions to Miroku and the Demon Huntress, Sango. No doubt they can answer questions with a bit more clarity than young Shippou." He glanced to Shippou as he said this watching as he watched his mother before nodding.

"Yeah, they know everything that's going on. Plus, I think if Sango has to spend any more time away from you she'll go crazy. She was so happy to know you were okay!" He said standing up and turning to look at Rin with a smile. "Maybe later, while the adults are talking, we can colour! I still have my crayons and paper!"

Rin gave a confused look to this before slowly nodding, "O-okay, and then maybe I can show you my toys!" She seemed to brighten a bit as Shippou brought out one of his tops from his jacket and showed her a trick with a small spark of pride.

Leaving the children to play, Kagome slowly began to untangle herself from Sesshomaru's tail, only to find herself being lifted off the bed as Sesshomaru stood, cradling her between his arm and tail with what she could only gleam as a somewhat playful smile.

"While I have my doubts that the Demon Huntress may enjoy the sight, I am sorely tempted to carry you in this manner to the breakfast table." He said, watching as she flushed slightly.

"I think I'm going to need to explain some things… a lot of things really, to her first… H-how should I even explain… what…" She seemed to tumble over her words, looking up at him with big worrying eyes.

"About us? You can explain to her, that I intend to court you, and to someday, if you will have me, to take you as my mate, and rightful Lady of the House of the Moon." He said this in a matter of fact tone, watching as worry led to awe, before a wide mixture of emotions seemed to flush over at once before she gave him the best hug she could from her position in his arms.

"I don't know how demon courtships work, but I do want… this, us. I would be honoured to be courted by you," she paused for a moment before putting on the best 'regal' expression she could as she solemnly said, "My Lord."

He chuckled to this, brushing his lips against hers gently before slowly, and she could have almost sworn, teasingly, unwound his tail from her legs. He set her down on the ground before they both turned their attention to see that Shippou and Rin were watching them. She had a look of pure happiness, while he appeared to be smirking.

Kagome bent down slightly, opening her arms to run forward as Rin ran over, hugging her tight as she said, "Does this mean you and Shippou are going to live here forever?!"

Kagome gave a soft laugh, nodding her head as she hugged Rin close, "Yes sweetie, and you're going to have an auntie, and an uncle!" She added, holding her a moment longer before standing. She turned her attention to Sesshomaru before asking, "Shall we make our way down then?"

With the aid of Rin, Kagome was able to get dressed easily in a simple navy kimono with a white pattern on the shoulder that closely resembled the one on Sesshomaru's. Sesshomaru and Shippou waited outside for the both of them, the elder for respect, and Shippou because he seemed to be attempting to show just how 'grown up' he could be to him.

They made their way downstairs, Sesshomaru remaining close by her side, and even allowing Shippou to sit on his shoulder. Kagome had been surprised by this, watching as Sesshomaru had caught sight of Shippou attempting to keep up, only to pause long enough to scoop the small boy up onto his shoulder.

The sight had been a reassuring one, and she had smiled up at them both as Shippou grinned down at her from his perch.

They had just reached the bottom of the stairs when a choked cry broke Kagome's attention from her family. She turned her attention just in time to see Sango rushing towards her. She moved forward quickly, a hand grasping at the long fabric of her kimono as she hurried. The two women met in a tight embrace, leaning against each other as they both broke into tears.

Sango rubbed at Kagome's back as she brokenly sobbed out an apology, "I'm so- so… sorry!" her words were further jumbled as she attempted to bring fault upon herself for Kagome being taken, and for being gone so long.

She shook her head though, resting her head on her shoulder as she said, "S-sango! Stop!" She took in a breath, attempting to stop herself from sounding the sobbing wreck that she knew that she was. "It's not your fault! Or Miroku's, or Shippou's! I- it…" she couldn't bring the words forth, to say what she felt in that moment. How there was nothing they could have done, how Naraku had seemed to have planned out his attack too well. Or how the one person who could have helped had been too busy having his head firmly shoved somewhere to look after her.

Sango went to object, and Kagome pulled back from the hug slightly, "Sango. I know, I'm safe now though. I'm here, and you're here. I'm not going anywhere, and you're not allowed to go anywhere, I don't want to lose you again." She leaned back in for the hug, squeezing her tight before noticing that Miroku was standing back, an amused smile on his face.

She stepped back from Sango, noting how Sango did not leave her side, instead she wrapped her arms around herself, watching as Kagome moved towards Miroku, hugging him just as tight as she softly said, "Thank you for watching over them both… and keeping them safe."

He nodded to this, placing a brotherly kiss to her temple as he said, "Of course, Kagome. I would have done nothing less. I'm simply relieved to see that you are alive and well, not even speaking of how well you have been cared for by your gracious host." He said, nodding to Sesshomaru over her shoulder, and being careful to mind where his hand was. He somehow doubted that the noble Lord would take well to another male openly groping his intended.

Kagome noted his missing trademark though and gave him a strange look, "Are you feeling okay? Normally by now you'd have tried to grope me, I mean, I'm pleased you haven't… but why?" She then noted that he was looking behind her before putting two and two together, giving a short laugh as she said, "Never mind, now I understand…"

She stood back, looping arms with Sango and smiling to her, her cheeks nearly aching from the wide smile that seemed nearly plastered to her face. "Come on, let's go get some food, and we can catch up. I'm sure we all have a lot to fill each other in on. I know that I do, at least." She said, turning her gaze to Sesshomaru as she said this, watching as he nodded in agreement before leading the way towards the dining hall. Questioning thoughts in his mind on how human women could channel through so many emotions in such a short time, and seem to be unaffected by it.

One thing was for certain, he had no doubts that he was in for an amusing breakfast, and from the smile he could see on Shippou's face, it seemed that this was a shared sentiment.

My. Goodness. That took forever to write! Oh well, onwards to the next chapter, and uploading this one. And knocking my head off a wall due to the lateness, etc.