Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

I don’t own anything Inuyasha.

A/N: Old story from years ago I am FINALLY posting on AO3. I hope you enjoy.

…

'Ugh… wha…?'

Whatever the reason why she was awake, it was not a good enough one. The pressure that built at her temples throbbed against her eyes and her tongue stuck to the roof of her mouth. Then, a noise she recognized as the cause of her rousing squawked again. With all the exasperation she could muster, Kagome shouted.

“Oh my gawd, Jaken, shut up!”

Kagome did not know why Jaken had listened, or why her voice was so deep, but she was grateful that the noise had stopped.

Wait… Why was she around the guy in the first place?

…

Unsuccessfully, Kagome tried to lift herself off the ground, but her body felt so heavy, everything rang in her ears at piercing levels, and what were all those smells!?

‘This must be a hangover.’ she thought. ‘Why the hell was I drinking with Jaken? I am never touching sake again…’

With a deep groan, she rubbed her temple, wished for an illegal amount of ibuprofen, and tried to remember what had happened.

The witch… Rin! ‘That’s right!’ The witch had attempted to transfer her soul into Sesshoumaru’s ward.

But they had defeated her, so why was she on the ground?

…

10 minutes ago…

Rin’s impish features were twisted as she lay unconscious in the hag’s arms. Kagome knew the pain of having your soul ripped away and her heart wept for the child. The strong reaction engulfed her arrow in a brilliant flame before it released.

The witch chanted and Sesshoumaru swung with Baksuaiga. The fluidity of the taiyoukai’s youki and her spiritual arrow met their foe’s aura simultaneously. Rin was dropped and caught by Inuyasha before a burst of energy emitted violently from the witch.

The hanyou avoided the blast, but Sesshoumaru and Kagome were knocked off their feet.

…

Chapter Text

I don’t own anything Inuyasha.

…

When she wouldn’t listen to reason, he resorted to force.

Well, tried to.

‘Insufferable female.’ The contact between them was the least of his worries, and Sesshoumaru shook his own arms with all the strength he could summon.

“Miko.” his feminine tone commanded.

“Ohmygawd!” The woman exclaimed. It was disconcerting listening to himself waver. “What’s going to happen when I go back? Can I even go home!? How does he sleep with this armor on?”

“Miko!”

“What am I going to do when I need to get dressed? Bathe!?... PEE!?”

“Kagome!” Sesshomaru screamed. If he could be awkward, now was the time.

…

Once she heard herself scream at… herself… Kagome broke out of her frantic daze and stared down into heated eyes.

“Miko,” Sesshoumaru tried again, finally releasing his own arms. “Until our situation is reversed, you will need to travel with this Sesshoumaru.”

Kagome blinked surreally at the odd ‘Sesshoumaru impression’ her own face was doing before her shoulders sank at the implications of being in constant company with the taiyoukai. Then she gasped, her new fangs clicking together, and imagined the volatile reaction Inuyasha was sure to have. “How will we explain this to everyone?”

Sesshoumaru's new blue eyes narrowed dangerously. “We won’t.”

…

Chapter Text

Shaking, Kagome rose with care in an attempt to appear graceful in the much larger body. She did not wish to break their promise, but the thought of Sesshoumaru seeing her naked was... uncomfortable.

Luckily, Rin nervously looked around the base of a tree in their direction and an idea sparked. If he was going to see her unclothed, she was going to keep a golden eye or two on him.

She concentrated on making Sesshoumaru's low voice sound commanding. "Ri-in," it cracked in her effort and, embarrassed, she cleared the demon's throat. "You will join them."

Kagome ignored their collected confusion and walked towards the mineral smell of the springs her demon nose detected, determined watch over Sesshoumaru and protect her own... assets.

...

Kagome was coming into the knowledge that people's scents correlated with their emotions. Her true body smelled relatively the same since the switch, and she had correctly guessed it as FROTHING ANGER. Now, hidden in the trees, the damnable youkai nose was picking up a new smell from the trapped demon. Sesshoumaru was maddeningly quiet as he bathed in her body, only heightening her frustration. She had to fight down a natural growl in the inuyoukai's chest as he stared down at her own, barely covered by the water.

Frantic, Kagome could not fathom what new emotion he was currently experiencing as he gawked.

‘If he isn’t angry, than what!?”

Sesshoumaru, on the other hand, was unaware of the miko's panic. He had seen breasts before, on several occasions, but for reasons that escaped him he never considered that they would float.

“Hn,” 'Kagome' huffed, idly interested in the new knowledge.

…

Chapter Text

I don't own anything Inuyasha.

...

Naraku snarled and unleashed an attack of woody tentacles. To avoid the assault heading her way, Kagome jumped… and was suddenly thirty feet in the air.

‘Whoa.'

It had been effortless. The youkai adrenaline rushed through her, enhancing her control and perception as if waking for the first time. Slashing at Naraku, she couldn’t help but smile.

However, it was nothing compared to when Inuyasha unsheathed Tetsusaiga. Kagome descended, seeing the sword as Sesshoumaru always had. The huge blade shined, resonating with the shaking sword at her hip. They beat and danced together, calling for Tenseiga’s release.

…

She could feel it. The blades were linked to their father and the connections ignored by the hate the brothers held for each other.

She was knocked out of her reverence when Inuyasha crashed into her. “Get out of the way, bastard!” he screamed. Kagome was used to being set aside for her own safety, but this was different. Now, she held onto things more powerful. She could help.

But, she had to ‘think like Sesshoumaru’.

Gawkly, she snorted and unsheathed Baksuaiga, its pulse dangerously stimulating.

Inuyasha muttered curses her way, but Kagome curled her lips into a dangerous grin and charged.

…

Back on the ground, Sesshoumaru watched as Kagome thrashed ungracefully about in his body. Any lesser being would shamefully crumble witnessing themselves swing a katana around with their eyes closed, but he was not a lesser being.

He quickly reached for the miko’s weapon.

“Kaze no kizuuuu!” Tetsusaiga swung as Inuyasha yelled down at him. “Shoot, Kagome!”

“Hiraikotsu!” Sango dodged away from the miasma, landing on Miroku, and called out, “Kagome!”

Sesshoumaru pulled back the taut string with practiced, graceful strength and attempted to access the reiki hiding beneath the surface. He finally released the dully illuminated arrow, and watched as it landed softly a few yards away from him.

…

Naraku was laughing at him, which wasn't new.

But now he had a reason. He scowled at the arrow laying not too far off as the magic sputtered.

Kagome quickly gave into her protective instincts. With the new youkai speed, she was immediately in front of her body, holding up Sesshoumaru's sword. She knew Sesshoumaru would be angry; beyond pissed even, but she could handle his admonishment if it meant ensuring he wasn’t hurt while in her body.

“I’ll protect you,” she claimed, trying to keep his penetrating voice low.

The entire area went silent once the Western Lord made his vow of protection over a human miko.

Naraku could sense secrets, no matter how hidden, even if he did not know what they were. “Inuyasha,” the spider cooed. “You fail to obtain the jewel, kill me, and protect your miko. Is that why she is now Sesshoumaru’s?”

Kagome felt her demon heart freeze. ‘What!?’

…

Inuyasha gripped onto Tetsusaiga’s hilt with a deadly force. His brother had just claimed what was his. He felt his control waver and eyes grow hot as the color shifted to bright red. ‘No…' He fought against the demonic instinct, unsuccessfully. 'My Kagome…’

Sesshoumaru was losing his control as well. The foolish miko had just used him to make a lifetime vow of protection. As his irritation grew, a strange sensation at the pit of his stomach spiked. It was warm, powerful, and exciting. In his anger he embraced it and felt an explosion of warm waves tickle across his false form.

…

Kagome’s spine seized. Something behind her screamed ‘DANGER!’ and in the next instant she leapt away. Turning, she then gasped finding herself as the threat.

Sesshoumaru, teeth clenched and feminine fists balled tight, had spiritual flames licking off his human body. The short green skirt and long black hair dancing within the chaos. Kagome had never seen such power. It was… frightening. And it was staring right at her.

Looking over, Kagome saw Inuyasha staring at her youkai-self as well.

They both looked ready to kill her.

She screamed, Sesshoumaru voice thundering across the clearing. “Not me, you idiots!”  Then pointed Bakusaiga towards Naraku. “Get him!”

…

Chapter Text

I don't own anything Inuyasha.

...

Chapter Text

I don't own anything Inuyasha.

...

Sesshoumaru's blunt fingers fumbled with the first aid kit ah he watched himself disappear somewhere in the woods. He was never easily intimidated, but the thought of being alone with a group composed of the priestess’s companions made him uneasy. They took turns as the taiyoukai did his best with the odd bandages, but his tension was extremely apparent and that unsettling attitude spread throughout their camp.

The wisest of the team apparently decided it was upon himself to address what might be ailing the secretly-a-demon miko.

The clinging of metal rings sounded his approach, and Sesshoumaru ruefully turned towards the noise.

…

“Kagome-sama, may I have a word?”

Sesshoumaru looked towards the monk and nodded. Miroku sat next to his quiet friend and, much to Sesshoumaru’s appreciation, sat in silence for several moments. It seemed everyone the miko knew was either too talkative or took far too many liberties with her person. The gentle silence was welcomed.

“You seem tense, Kagome-sama,” he started after a while. “Though I cannot fully understand what you are going through, I hope you can trust in me to confide in.”

The trapped demon considered the monk’s soothing voice, friendly aura, and calm nature… then instantly wondered what his fault was.

…

Sesshoumaru sighed when the monk’s hand rested on his shoulder. Apparently, the miko allowed even grown men to touch her. The physical contact was apprehensible, but he forced himself to endure the tortuous coddling.

“You have been uncharacteristically quiet, Kagome-sama,” Miroku continued. “After what occurred with poor Rin-chan today, I can only imagine what terrible memories resurfaced.”

Sesshoumaru was only curious about this statement a moment before the houshi’s fingers trailed down past his shoulder blades. In his opinion, if this was how humans comforted each other, it was all the more reason to be youkai.

…

A sense of camaraderie rang true in the monk’s reassuring words. “You never have to fight alone, Kagome-sama.”

"Hn." This human did not seem to be a total loss. Still, Sesshoumaru was relieved when he removed his hand…

Until…

Venonmous, azure eyes shot wide open. Sesshoumaru breath was trapped in his throat and every muscle screamed at him to move, but he was frozen in shock.

The Great Western Lord was having his feminine ass generously fondled by a human… 

Miroku was thankful when Sango knocked him out, because judging by the look in Kagome’s eyes, he was certain she was about to kill him.

…

While her friends tended to their injuries, Kagome had escaped far away. She felt guilty, but the smell of blood in her new demon nose had been too much. She rubbed her arms repeatedly, trying to get the sticky feel of it off her.

She was quite close to camp when she felt angry reiki tingling against the sensitive demon skin. She tensed for battle, but the accompanied, far off voice of Shippo calmed her. “That lecherous baka is lucky he's only unconscious.”

"Miroku's an idiot!" came Inuyasha's voice in response.

The pieces drifted together. Miroku had chosen the worst time to try his perverted antics. She should have felt violated, humiliated, and maybe even a little sorry for Sesshoumaru. But instead, the corners of taut lips curled up and she giggled in low, dangerous purrs. Kagome was frightened at the foreign noise, but was even more disturbed about how nice it had sounded.

…

Chapter Text

I don't own anything Inuyasha.

...

Later, 'Sesshoumaru' walked as gracefully as possible towards her best friend. Inuyasha was still so upset from earlier that her heart ached. She wanted to reach out and reassure him of all he meant to her, but the image of Sesshoumaru's long, striped arms embracing his half-brother was enough to keep her snobby façade intact.

“Scout ahead and ensure there will be no dangers tonight."

Inuyasha replied with a scoff. “Keh, who died and made you king?”

‘Oooohhhh,’ she thought. In the long quiet that followed, the memory of the Inu no Taisho's tomb would not relent. '…Awkward.’

Inuyasha must have caught his slip and must have taken the taiyoukai’s silence as a threat. He mumbled something soft then leapt off.

Kagome took a tentative glance behind her towards the rest of the group, grateful the Sesshoumaru’s human ears didn’t just hear that.

…

The dying campfire barely lit the small trail 'Kagome' navigated through. Despite his new weaknesses, he was not willing to be led to a quiet place for them to talk, but he had never felt so blind before. Or so tired. Every part of Sesshoumaru's new body ached and he hated himself for desiring another trip to the hot springs. Being human was truly Inconvenience Incarnate.

Kagome, on the other hand, was having a whole other experience. ‘I can see EVERYTHING! And wow, does Sesshoumaru sleep, because I feel like I can be up for days! Where is he going, anyways? Oh-’

"Watch out for…" She winced as a he ran straight into a branch. ‘Too late.’

...

Sesshoumaru rubbed the bump on his forehead and glared at himself, who was smilingly sheepishly.

"I'm sorry I didn't warn you about the tree earlier," she said in his voice.

He scoffed. "Of all the events to be apologetic for, that is the least of my concerns."

Her head tilted to the side, the long, borrowed silver tresses dancing with the movement. "What do you mean?"

"By making such a vow earlier you became eternally bound by my protection."

"I just didn't want you to get hurt!"

His sigh felt cathartic in the fragile form he possessed. "You are a foolish creature."

...

Seeing her own eyes roll ignited Kagome’s anger, and she began listing grievances on long, claw-tipped fingers. “And you are such a jerk! I've had my body swapped, breasts 'eye-molested', at least TWO Jaken-induced migraines, and I was embarrassed in battle all in one day!"

"You were embarrassing in battle before this unfortunate incident." His tone was idle, as if her shortcomings were common knowledge.

"What is THAT supposed to mean!?" Kagome demanded, her brood demon shoulders dropped, which was a relief under the heavy armor.

"You are poorly trained." Sesshoumaru's mocking tilt in her hips wasn’t nearly as intimidating as he probably wanted it to be. Apparently, he was not above immature baiting.

...

Kagome couldn’t resist debasing the demon lord. "Like you are such a pro with my bow?"

He glowered back. "It is a useless weapon.”

“It worked on you a couple of times.” She mumbled and looked out into the forest, the silver hair cascading off of mokomoko.

It was then he noticed the shorn silver locks she had tried to hide behind the pelt. Horror slipped into the girly tone.  “…You cut this Sesshoumaru's hair."

Her eyes narrowed, "Well, you saw me naked."

"You,” he pointed accusingly and snarled, “will see me as well." ‘Sesshoumaru’ made a small whimpering sound, and the real Sesshoumaru cringed. "On the subject, your clothing is also inappropriate."

"Do you want to trade?" she mocked sarcastically.

His own smirk aimed against him made the insult all the more potent. Also, the image of his striped hips barely concealed by a short green skirt threatened to haunt him permanently.

"... This Sesshoumaru hates you."

…

Chapter Text

I don’t own anything Inuyasha.

…

A familiar presence tickled Kagome’s new demon senses. “Inuyasha is almost back. What do I say if I mess up?”

He was clearly confused over her choice of words. “…What?”

“You know,” The fake-demon scoffed. “If I do something ‘not Sesshoumaru’, how do I explain it?”

He crossed his arms and instantly replied, “If you are this Sesshoumaru, it will not be required.”

Good point. “You will have to have an explanation, though.”

They both sighed simultaneously before Sesshoumaru looked up into his own eyes. “I can understand why humans do not last long. To live with your inconvenient troubles is torture.”

Kagome wrinkled her regal nose at the insult. “Do you want me to help, or are you going to keep being a self-important ass?”

Kagome finally understood why the men in her group feared her anger. The look Sesshoumaru leveled at her instinctually made the demon's hackles rise.

“What weak excuses do you have for your many discrepancies, so that our charade can continue until we find a solution?”

She growled, listing out possible explanations for to him, and struggled to keep a certain B-word off the list.

...

The day was unusually hot as the eccentric gang travelled through the countryside, and every instant grew increasingly disturbing for Sesshoumaru. He had tried all morning to ignore the heated breezes traveling up his bare legs by eavesdropping in his imposter.

“This Sesshoumaru desires this…” the miko spoke in his voice.

“This one requires you to do that…”

Sesshoumaru listened to Kagome’s impression of him in disgust. It was maddening to hear her constantly repeat the third person indicator. He looked at the rest of the group expecting to see their annoyance as well.

But to his dismay, no one else seemed to notice a difference.

...

Kagome had feared this since the soul switch. It was inevitable, but she tried to avoid it all the same, and now the pressure had built to the breaking point. At noon, she started to fidget. By dusk, there was no way for her to conceal her apprehension. She briefly imagined how funny it must look for the tall demon lord to be twisting his long hair around a clawed finger, anxiously bouncing from one foot to another, but the distraction never lasted long.

By twilight, Kagome could not take it anymore. She leapt far above the treetops and used all the youkai speed she could conjure to find a HIGHLY secluded spot. She thought watching Sesshoumaru bath her body was uncomfortable.

It was nothing compared to being trapped in a youkai with a full bladder.

Once she landed and tried to figure out Sesshoumaru’s clothing, she groaned.

The hakama were surrounded by the silk of Sesshoumaru’s haori. The haori was encased by black armor, making it impossible to reach the ties of the flowing pants. There was the flowing obi and the armor trapped behind a spiked metal breast plate to make it even more difficult. And all of it was tied with intricate knots of red silken ties.

Another puppish whimper left ‘Sesshoumaru’ as she realized she needed the real taiyoukai’s help.

He was going to have to undress her.

...

Sesshoumaru’s restlessness should have been a cause for concern for Inuyasha’s group, but they were all too worried about Kagome. She was reserved and quiet; like she forgot how to use her heart.

Sango had used all the old tricks, yet felt Kagome slipping away from her.

Inuyasha was more gruff than usual. It became apparent to everyone in the group how dependent he was on Kagome for his confidence. Several times he had attempted to offer her rides, and each attempt ended with the same word.

“Osuwari.”

As he pulled himself out of yet another crater, cursing and spitting out dirt, Inuyasha found himself at a loss. He was strong, even for full demons. He wielded one of the most powerful swords ever created. Battle after battle he had withstood his ground and kept alive the ones under his care, even though he was technically still learning. Yet, when it came to the human miko whose fate was deeply entwined with his own, Inuyasha had NO clue how to properly interact with her. Whether she was acting like herself or not.

Miroku preferred a more “hands on” approach. On occasion he would walk up to the strangely silent miko, a calm smile cemented on his face, only to have it answered with a deadly, “Keep your distance, houshi.”

It did not do much to deter him. It wasn’t that Miroku truly wanted to molest his friend; it was that he LOVED the challenge.

...

Not long after, when most every one had settled in and Inuyasha left to scout ahead, Miroku waited for his miko friend to drop her guard. Lying perfectly still, his listened for any moment to become his perfect opportunity.

Moments later, he couldn’t believe what his barely opened one eye witnessed. Sesshoumaru had returned, looking antsy of all things, and whispered in Kagome’s ear. With a huff she stood and led the demon lord deep into the dark night of the forest.

After several minutes of battling with himself, Miroku quietly stood, hiding his aura, and followed after the mysterious two. Yes, Sesshoumaru might kill him for intruding, but he could not allow Kagome to be left alone with the taiyoukai, especially without Inuyasha around.

He had found them, and was about to make his presence known when he heard his friend’s soft voice.

“You expect me to do what, exactly?”

Sesshoumaru answered with obvious anxiety in his voice. “Please. I need you to. Besides, you were the last one to tie everything on, so you know how to take it off.”

Miroku half expected her to hit Sesshoumaru for that comment, but what happened next surprised him even more.

“Hn, will you expect this of me often?” Kagome asked coldly.

“I’ll be able to do it myself from now on. But, I need you to show me how you did it last time so I can do the same.”

The monk didn’t realize he wasn’t breathing as he waited for her response.

With a sigh, Kagome’s hands went to Sesshoumaru’s obi, roughly loosening the knot. “Pay attention,” she ordered. “It is different than what you are used to, and I should not want to repeat myself.”

With a nod, the taiyoukai grabbed the loose obi and swords, placing them gently on the ground before standing fully straight again.

Miroku didn’t dare move a muscle. No… it couldn’t be what it looks like.

Then Kagome dropped to her knees in front of the silver-haired demon, and reached under his armor to undo the secured ties.

Miroku fell backwards, thankful his barrier was still intact. The sight of his supposedly innocent companion on her knees for the most powerful demon alive had him reeling. Quietly as he could, he scrambled to his feet and ran back to camp, only slightly curious to how Sesshoumaru hadn’t noticed him the entire time.

Maybe he did…

That hentai!

...

Chapter Text

I don’t own anything Inuyasha.

…

To better hide their secret, they stole away moments to teach each other about themselves.

“Hnnnn....” Kagome attempted.

Sesshoumaru shook his head, the dark, tumbling locks bouncing with the movement. “No, be more indifferent.”

"Hnpfh"

He sighed. “Not like a cross pup. Be commanding.”

“Are you sure?” Kagome argued and clicked her claws together irritably. “You are pretty petulant.”

He glowered. “Try it again.”

She huffed before boisterously exclaiming, “HhhHHNNn!”

His eyes widened to stare at himself in abhorrence. "What... was that?"

With a quick snap of her head, Kagome flipped back the long silver hair and pointed her nose slightly in the air. The long, muscular arms folded over the armor and she hoped her pouting would properly display her disdain. "Hn."

Sesshoumaru softened. "Better."

...

Kagome had spent most of her time concerned with appearing aloof and distant that she failed to take notice of the people around her. So, technically, she was doing a great job at being the demon lord.

However, the girl who normally reached her heart out to the world was unaware of a glaring problem within the group, but mostly because she was not used to caring for the well-being of the small girl. That is, until Jaken nervously hobbled over to her and tripped over his words.

“Um, Sess-Sesshou-Sess-“

Her temple pulsed. She understood why the real Sesshoumaru kicked him around so often. “Ohmygawd, What!?”

Her slipped went unacknowledged by the kappa. He was too terrified by the clipped tone and obvious exasperation. “It is Rin, Sesshoumaru-sama.”

...

Kagome looked towards the human girl in a raggedy kimono.

Jaken continued, his small knees shaking. “Of course, Sesshoumaru-sama is quite aware of her depressing mood, but I would not be fulfilling my promise to protect her if I did not make notice of it.” Though his words spoke of concern, his large, yellow eyes only pleaded Please don’t kill me.

Her chest tightened and she observed the child again. Now that the imp mentioned it, Rin had been oddly quiet since (what she delicately labeled as) the worst %#!@ing thing to ever happen to her. She had been so selfish about her own dilemma that she did not even notice Rin was disturbed by what she went through because of the witch as well.

The late spring breeze rustled the long silver hair with the scent of flowers. Internally, Kagome smiled. “Jaken,” she demanded, “Watch after Ah-Un. Rin and I will return shortly.”

She couldn’t do much, but the girl loved flowers, and perhaps an afternoon braiding them into crowns would brighten the little girl’s spirit.

...

Perhaps it was leaving the others behind, but Rin immediately became happier once she was alone with Sesshoumaru in the flower field.

“Rin travels everywhere with Sesshoumaru-sama.”

The child’s exuberance was infectious and it took all of Kagome's will power not to pick up the almond-eyed ward of the body she possessed.

“Rin is loyal and trusts Sesshoumaru-sama.”

As the girl ran in circles through the blooms, Kagome glanced behind the armored shoulder to ensure they were not followed and seriously considered playing as well.

"Rin knows all there is to know about Sesshoumaru-sama."

The cheerful voice of her small charge had darkened… and gotten much closer. Kagome quickly looked towards her again, and saw a small dagger in her little hands pointed straight between her eyes.

"And YOU are not Sesshoumaru-sama.”

“Eep!”

...

The group had stopped while Sesshoumaru and Rin took a short reprieve some distance away, much to Inuyasha’s grief, and Kagome stared off in their direction.

Sango reached up and lightly laid a hand on her friend’s shoulder. It should have been reassuring, but the phony miko tensed instead.

“Kagome, what’s wrong?”

Sesshoumaru looked at the taijiya as if awakening from a daze. He couldn’t sense Rin anymore and it had unsettled him greatly. However, now that he had drawn attention to himself, he had to quickly think of an acceptable excuse the real Kagome had given him earlier.

The silence between them stretched longer than normal and concern supplemented Sango’s usually guarded expression. Sesshoumaru watched the slayer’s eyes grow wider as her heart opened up. Ah hell, she was going to cry or hug him or do something else terribly violating if he didn’t speak up soon.

Sesshoumaru looked directly into the human’s dark eyes and said as dismissively as he was serious, “Sorry. P.M.S.”

...

Chapter Text

I don't own anything Inuyasha.

...

Dumbstruck, Kagome stared down the short length of the intricate dagger to meet the angered eyes of her childish challenger.

“What have you done to Sesshoumaru-sama?”

The false taiyoukai opened her mouth, but did not know what to say. So, she quickly snapped her jaws shut again. The exotic fangs bit into her tongue and she hissed in response. Rin must have seen it as a threat.

Rin gripped onto the hilt with both hands, waving the small blade in the imposter’s face, and practically screamed, “Where is Sesshoumaru-sama!?” Kagome could hear the desperation in her voice. Then, the tears started to fall from her round eyes. Suddenly Rin’s tragic story was on display. She and been abandoned, more than once, and had gained faith in someone after believing herself incapable of such devotion again. Now, in the fear that she would lose it once more, Rin was prepared to fight for what she loved.

Kagome hung her head and attempted to make the demon lord's unapproachable voice sound comforting. “Rin-chan…”

Fortunately, Kagome did not need to continue, because the perceptive girl dropped the dagger as her knees almost gave out from under her. “Kagome-sama?”

She sighed and nodded, then ‘oofed’ once a vice like grip tangled itself around her neck. Her initial response was to loosen the hold, but the girl’s quiet sobs halted her, so she patted soothing circles on her back with clawed hands instead.

...

Much to Sesshoumaru’s relief, the 'P.M.S.' excuse had worked.

Sango’s expression immediately lightened. “Must be a bad one, huh?”

Sesshoumaru honestly shrugged the miko's shoulders.

“Well, time for your cure, then. Shippo will be excited.” The slayer beamed as she beckoned the kit towards them.

A group event was not what the taiyoukai wanted at that moment, especially since the last “cure” suggested by the slayer involved disrobing. Yet, the excited fox’s anticipation was almost infectious. Shippo dug through the large yellow backpack and pulled out several metallically wrapped bars of sweets, handing a generous amount to each woman and taking a double helping for himself.

He stripped one of the bars inedible casing, missing his claws. The food stuff felt rigid in his hold, but began to melt by his warmth. As the dark, thick candy caked the delicate female's fingertips, Sesshoumaru could scent the roasty, thick, sugary qualities- even with the human’s inferior senses. Observing the mess, Sesshoumaru scowled, but brought it to his lips anyways…

Then fought to impulse to roll back his eyes.

The velvet texture exploded on his tongue and coated the roof of his mouth. It would have been overly saccharine for his own tastes, but the miko’s body sang in response, and the dog licked his fingers eagerly.

“Wow,” Sango observed with a kind smile. “You must have really needed the chocolate.”

Sesshoumaru blinked, reigning in his overzealous urge to devour the rest, and nodded while stumbling over the new word in his mind.

Cho-co-late...

...

Rin had calmed after only a few chaotic moments. She squirmed to get out of the hold, but Kagome would not release her. “It’s okay," she heard her lord say, "I kind of needed the hug, too.”

Strong hands cradled the child with maternal comfort and it wasn’t as awkward as Rin thought it would be. Opportunities began to make themselves known in her young mind. The liberties she would be able to take…

She never would have dared before. As much she trusted Sesshoumaru, he was strictly “off-limits” when it came to certain things. Songs in his honor, yes. Flower crowns, maybe. But this…

This would be her only chance.

“Kagome-sama?”

Kagome's smile was deep and misplaced on the demon lord's face. Rin failed to suppress her mirth. “May Rin… Rin would like to…”

Her brown eyes darted to her right then back to her tiny, tangled hands. A deep chuckle rumbled between them, and Kagome exclaimed, “Sure! I did the same thing!”

Beaming, Rin reached towards the furry addition to the usually frightening taiyoukai and started to pet lightly. Before she could comment on how soft it was, the taiyoukai's shoulders shook and the low voice playfully exclaimed. “Oooo, that tickles!”

Unable to hold it back any longer, Rin exploded with giggles and fought against her shortened breaths to say, “Kagome-sama is not a very good Sesshoumaru-sama!”

Kagome huffed playfully. “You should pay attention to how bad he is acting like ME.”

All the amusement instantly drained from Rin’s face. “Oh no. Sesshoumaru-sama… is… Kagome-sama? Sesshoumaru-sama is going to be very angry…” Looking back down, her hands left the warm fluff to sheathe the small blade that was left in the grass.

“Rin-chan,” Kagome softly beckoned, “Maybe you can help him?”

The lop-sided half ponytail swung swiftly as her head shoot up. “Rin will do anything for Sesshoumaru-sama!”

...

“Sesshoumaru-sama would not want Rin to lie.”

The demon lord’s shoulders dropped. She thought it would be a good plan if Rin played along, but the girl was being loyal in the most difficult way.

Kagome rolled a clawed hand in the air. “It’s not really lying, Rin-chan. It’s playing along. Just pretend that I am Sesshoumaru and that he is me; and maybe help him be me a bit. Sesshoumaru doesn’t want anyone to know because it might put all of us in danger.”

Rin’s attempt to appear serious was ruined by her sheer adorableness. After tapping a small finger to her chin several times, she stood up, tightened her ponytail even more off-centered than before, and smiled at her false lord with determined eyes.

“If Sesshoumaru-sama can do it, than Rin can too!”

...

Kagome and a happier Rin finally caught up with the group. The young girl rushed to the false miko sitting under a tree, surrounded by strange, shiny papers. “Hi, Kagome-sama!”

Sesshoumaru stopped chewing to stare. His ward was all smiles, all life, and all back to normal. Whatever the real priestess did, it pleased him to see Rin no longer down-hearted.

“May Rin travel with you today?”

It was not much, but her trailing after him would be at least something resembling normal. It set him just a little at ease. Wordlessly, he handed the little girl another chocolate bar from the strange yellow bag and it was accepted with a bright, loyal smile. As the two devoured the sweets, Sesshoumaru placed a hand on Rin’s head and genuinely grinned for the first time since the switch.

...

That night after Inuyasha left to scout ahead, Sesshoumaru and Kagome once again headed deep out of earshot for their nightly conversation. Tonight, the real miko had insisted they take her worn out backpack with them.

She found a downed tree and began riffling through the yellow bag’s contents. Sesshoumaru watched himself scoff, huff, and growl when Kagome couldn’t find whatever she was looking for…

'DAMN HIS NOSE!' Kagome could smell the chocolate since she returned with Rin, and now that it was finally within her reach, it was nowhere! 'Where… where… mine!…'

“Thank you,” Sesshoumaru suddenly declared.

Kagome stopped dead in her tracks. Her right arm was consumed within the large pack, but her head peaked out over the edge and stared at the aloof version of herself.

...

Sesshoumaru rolled his eyes at his own tousled silver bangs, wide golden eyes, and agape mouth. What everyone found so charming about this miko escaped him.

However…

“Thank you,” he said again, the voice steady as to not give away any emotion hiding behind the feminine tone. “For Rin.”

Guilt squeezed Kagome’s heart. She was sure Sesshoumaru just didn’t go around thanking people every day. Actually, she might be one of the firsts to ever hear those words pass his lips, err… ‘her’ lips. He must truly care about what happened to his ward.

Maybe she should tell him that Rin knew about them. Maybe he should know about their arrangement and her new game. If he is reaching out like this, then he might be able to…

Just then, Kagome hand brushed against something crinkling in the bag. She grabbed onto it and saw a Ziploc full of candy wrappers. All of the candy wrappers. EMPTY candy wrappers. The smell had killed her all day, would probably continue to do so for weeks with the demon's superior senses, and because of their current situation she couldn’t go home for more.

'That  stupid  dog ate all my chocolate!

'Ah, to HELL with him!'

Kagome's lips tightened in a dry smile and, with deceptive sweetness, responded, “You’re welcome, Sesshoumaru.” Throwing the plastic bag back into the pack with more force than necessary, she stood, towered over herself, and crossed the long, muscular arms. “Now, what did you want?”

“You will teach me how to use this priestess power.”

...

Chapter Text

 I don’t own anything Inuyasha.

…

In a shrouded castle, hidden behind suffocating trees and poisoned mountains, a large growl of disappointment filled the dark, dead spaces.

Naraku’s gaze turned from calculating to deadly as he stared at the passive face of his last incarnation. “What do you mean you didn’t gather much information? You have been following them for days!”

Byakuya shrugged, looking out of the bleak window, and answered in a matter-of-fact tone. “Well, it is Sesshoumaru. I am not looking to lose my already short life by eavesdropping on the taiyoukai.”

The low table that separated them flung across the room and Naraku's spiny tentacle encircled Byakuya’s neck.

“You will do as you are told, or did you forget how easily I can kill you.”

His winged, lazy eyes slid to his lord’s. “Does the job you created me for mean so little?”

.

Naraku clenched his teeth and did not release his hold, but didn’t strengthen it either. “Have you truly learned nothing?”

As if deep in thought, the illusion youkai looked towards the ceiling before holding out a fist to the evil hanyou. “The miko taught Sesshoumaru a game of strategy.”

Confusion pinched Naraku’s brows together, until his servant started chanting, “Saisho wa guu, janken po-“

Naraku threw Byakuya across the room. “A song! You come back to me with a child’s game?”

“Be careful of my sword, Naraku-sama,” he groaned as parts of the wall fell off him. “Besides, you miss the point. Sesshoumaru chooses to spend time with the miko. So, the best way to get to the demon lord…”

The air shifted as one of Byakuya’s illusions took form, leaving a Kagome doppelganger in his place.

The spider's twisted face smoothed into a calculating grin. “…is going through Kagome.”

.

Human females were sadists.

Sesshoumaru was sure of this fact.

The taiyoukai dropped his rigid posture in a most undignified way. “… What’s going to happen?” he asked, obviously shaken.

Kagome could smell anxiety on the false woman’s skin, but there was no way it could ever compare to her own. She had briefly explained human female fertility cycles and now wanted to dig a hole and hide in it…

But maybe that’s just the dog in her talking.

With almost obscene gestures, Kagome pantomimed. “Well, you take this-” her clawed hand held up a feminine pad, “Remove the plastic part, and stick it-” again with the obscene gesture, “so it lays against your… my…”

Sesshoumaru watched himself blushed.

After a tense few moments, he sighed, clearly defeated, and looked at the menstrual materials with hollowed eyes. “To think, I believed the ‘bra’ to be horrific.”

.

Sesshoumaru's race were social creatures by nature. However, his status prevented him from acting upon those instincts. He had barely touched Rin, always kicked Jaken, and had not slept next to someone in centuries.

Now, he found himself trapped in Kagome’s body with a kitsune child buried in his neck and his ward tucked under an arm.

There were many downfalls to their situation, but he was beginning to recognized the good as well. First the subjugation necklace, now pack sleeping. He mused to himself while drifting off into his first peaceful sleep in ages.

"I wonder what other benefits posing as this miko can bring…"

.

As Kagome got used to the overbearing taiyoukai senses, distinguishing her surroundings became easier. She could now comb through the jumble of noise and scent, allowing Kagome to pick up hidden messages in everyone’s actions.

Whenever Sango scolded Miroku, she could tell the demon slayer held back enough so it wouldn’t deter him in the future. There was eagerness in her voice, like a secret game that Sango was hell bent on winning.

Inuyasha was so often rash when he truly wished to be comforted. With every curse and command Kagome could sense the years of pain beneath them. Maybe this is why Sesshoumaru never successfully killed him; his pain was apparent even though his expression was harsh.

Miroku, whose scent mostly carried a tangy manipulative tone, was wise and genuine when he would proclaim, “My dearest Sango.”

And ‘Kagome’, or Sesshoumaru… whatever… seemed so solemn. His eagerness to participate in games and events flashed briefly through his scent before they were buried in a practiced manner. Kagome could sense that when Sesshoumaru didn’t hold any titles or expectations he became somewhat normal; even if trapped within a miko’s body. In rare occasions he seemed happy, or maybe content, and it affected her more than she liked to admit.

Kagome was used to being social and it pained her to stay away from the people she loved. But, knowing that Sesshoumaru was free to be close to others gave her the comfort she needed.

Chapter Text

I don't own anything Inuyasha.

…

Days passed without hint of a witch powerful enough to reverse the curse. Each night drew in colder winds and the humans (real or not) closer and closer to their fire. Though Sesshoumaru despised being susceptible to the elements, he was grateful that he would eventually be required to wear more clothing.

Kagome's worries were growing. Would she ever revert back to her true form? Would she ever see her family again? Could she train in youkai powers as Sesshoumaru wanted her to? Would she ever stop accidentally slicing her legs and silver hair with the borrowed claws? However, one concern was becoming more demanding than the others.

Sesshoumaru’s stomach was rumbling.

She would find it funny if she wasn’t so hungry. But, her head was dizzy and muscles ached from the lack of nutrition and nothing the humans ate even appealed to her.

.

Rin tried to help, but the only advice she could offer was, "If Kagome-sama is hungry, then you need to go find your own food."

If she ever got back to the modern era, she was going to bring Sesshoumaru back a 'World's Greatest Father' badge as a sarcastic joke.

Her head spun as she looked over to everyone eating their ramen and random vegetables. Slowly, Kagome snuck in a bush behind her true body and, none to gracefully, hissed through her fangs.

“Pppssssttt!”

Sesshoumaru moaned angrily into his noodles as the rest of the group, minus the hunting Inuyasha, spotted golden eyes in the foliage. They all went dead silent and Miroku dropped his chopsticks, recalling the last time he had caught them together.

“Pppsssstttt!” Kagome urged again.

With a huff, Sesshoumaru turned around and glared at himself. Kagome almost backed away, but the pressing need in her stomach growled again. She pouted, revealing pointed fangs that dug into her lower lip, and spoke in whispers too soft for anyone else to hear. “I’m hungry.”

The silence that had invaded was broken as the miko screamed, “Eat JAKEN for all I care!” His false blue eyes whipped to stare harshly at the group, who all turned their attention back to the meal.

Sesshoumaru leaned in closer to the bush and demanded. “Go. Hunt.”

“…Eh?”

He threw the chopsticks into the bush, poking the false demon lord in the eye.

.

Kagome was more than a little trepidatious about killing with her bare hands. Both swords were useless for hunting; one wouldn’t cut and the other would destroy the whole carcass. It seemed wrong to use them in such a way, anyway. So, having little control over the weird youkai whip, that left the claws.

She considered going vegan at the thought.

As she stalked through the forest, she wondered if Sesshoumaru had been the one to prepare food for his own group. It seemed so out of place for anyone to do such for him, but the thought of the demon lord as a host was downright weird.

‘Tea, anyone?’ she heard him say in her head, and could not help but giggle his deep, rolling purr of laughter again.

Now the question was: What did the scariest, deadliest, most badass youkai in all the land hunt?

.

Little whiskers swayed through the grass as a rabbit hopped lazily through a small field, unaware it was being watched.

The puffy, round cheeks greedily swelled as little teeth munched on its treat, not knowing how close it was to being a snack for a hungry, faux youkai.

It cute, small button nose twitched, mocking Kagome from where she stood.

Rabbit sounded perfect, it made her mouth water… but it was too adorable to murder.

In a huff, Kagome turned to storm off into the trees, muttering, “Stupid fluffy feet… stupid cute nose…"

.

Well… hunting bear seemed like a good idea…

“AAAAAAAAHHHH!!!!!”

Kagome crashed through high bushes and made another giant leap away from the chasing bear, debris riddling the furry appendage that whipped behind her. 

In her panic, she had forgotten that she was trapped within Sesshoumaru; someone who could kill their prey by staring at it.

She dared a glance behind her and tripped, landing hard on the unforgiving ground.

The crazed bear was on her in an instant. Mind fogged with fear, she instinctually swiped the claws and waited for what seemed like an eternity.

‘What was that about never being helpless again?’ she thought bitterly.

Then, a heavy weight crushed on top of her armor.

The animal was dead, pinning her to the ground. After a small moment, she could feel it bleeding out all around her as it soaked into the taiyoukai's silk and hair.

Sesshoumaru’s deep baritone drew out in her disgust.

“……eeeeeeeEEEEEWWWWWah!”

.

Her stomach was a little uneasy, but she somehow got through cleaning the bear and eating the raw meat. In her head, Kagome was making gross faces, but the youkai body was pleased.

As she finished, she wiped her mouth and looked down at the blood-covered youkai.

Sure, she had panicked earlier, but seeing the aftermath made Kagome realize how dangerous that actually was. Then she remembered that even though she had admonished herself for feeling helpless, she had never called for help. She had done it alone.

Even if it was with someone’s else body, she took the win as her own.

Kagome then headed for camp, walking a little taller with a stomach sated, heart filled with pride, and silver hair heavy with gross bear blood.

.

Rin giggled as Shippou continued searching through the yellow pack for a very unhealthy snack. The priestess had become lax in regulating his sugar intake lately and it now, it seemed, all the candy was gone.

Then, he stumbled across little white packets of thick, golden syrup that was normally used for tea.

Shippou thought it was strange that Kagome took so long to open the packets- she had just stared at them for a minute before doing so- but was then rewarded with the sweet taste of honey as him and Rin sucked them dry.

Sesshoumaru became curious to their enthusiasm and shortly joined them until all three were a sticky mess.

.

The real taiyoukai suckled the honey off his fingers until he realized that they were not, in fact, his fingers at all… and quickly ceased the outright improper behavior.

Just then, Shippou gagged on his treat. He rose his tiny clawed finger to the direction of the forest and began sputtering incoherent dribble.

A blood sodden ‘Sesshoumaru’ was returning to their small camp. Inuyasha jumped down from his tree, sniffing wildly at the iron in the air, but relaxed his guard after a moment. Sango gasped at the horrendous sight of the demon lord, who was curiously walking up to the kid, kit, and ‘Kagome’. They were surrounded by empty condiment packets and covered in a sweet, wild scent. The real Sesshoumaru, disbelief clear in his eyes, began to growl at the sight of himself.

The blood-soaked demon stared at the honey-coated miko and stated, “You’re a mess.”

His blue eye twitched and Inuyasha’s laughter could be heard from across the clearing.

“Osuwari,” he commanded, sending the hanyou to the ground, and fumed at the youkai-trapped miko.

.

Reiki flamed in Sesshoumaru's eyes as he stared at the bloody taiyoukai. No one, save Rin, knew why she was angry, but the tension was thick and apparent between the two.

The group knew these odd interactions could not be passing whimsies any longer. If they were, Sesshoumaru would have tried to kill her already… again. They were smart enough to realize that the tension present meant some sort of an accord was happening between the two.

Proving everyone’s theory, the Kagome-presenting demon marched to Sesshoumaru-presenting miko, grabbed the clawed hand, and drug her into the forest.

Luckily, no one followed them, and the only one stupid enough to was still picking himself off the dusty ground.

Hidden by trees, Sesshoumaru fumed at the condition of his clothes and appearance. “HOW?”

She shrugged, trying not to fear herself. “Hunting...”

His eyes narrowed. “You have to bathe now.”

Realizing the implications, Kagome whimpered.

...

Chapter Text

Kagome stared at steamy water, her face contorted into such apprehension that onlookers might think the dog demon was about to get neutered.

'I would rather retake middle school,' she thought to herself.

'I would trade this for a hundred math tests.

I would rather allow Miroku grab me where he wished…

Hell, I’d let Naraku …

Just so I wouldn’t have to… wash… AH!'

A deep breath filled the taiyoukai’s lungs, and Kagome let it out in a loud whoosh.

The water was warm, her privacy insured, and all the bath products she insisted on using were on the edge of the hot spring; so every comfort was looked to… except the part where she had to TOUCH a naked man…

Even if it was technically herself.

She groaned and felt it rolled through her in a primal growl, certain that this whole situation was karmic injustice.

'You owe me, Universe.'

.

Undoing the multiple knots that secured armor, katana, and clothing was not the hard part…

Bathing Sesshoumaru…

THAT would be the hard part!

'GAH! NO! No, it’s not! No hard ‘parts’ on this body, nope! None!'

She slipped into the spring, concentrating on ignoring the rippling of warm, mineral water against the smooth youkai skin.

She counted to ten before even opening her eyes again.

'If he can do it, so can I.'

Stealing her resolve, Kagome scrubbed down the demon’s body, careful to avoid certain areas. But, when she started rubbing down the striped thighs, something brushed across her arm.

'EEP! Snake!

Wait…

Snakes don’t swim in hot springs…'

She whimpered again and sank fully under water, letting the current wash away the bear's blood and her own humiliation.

.

Shampooed, washed, and hair- and fur- combed, Kagome returned to the campsite extremely late. Everyone was already settled and asleep for the night, except for an irate miko waiting for her in the tree line.

He whispered harshly as she approached. “You were supposed to train on extending youki tonight.”

Her shoulders sunk. “No thanks,” she replied, recalling the effects warm water and slight contact had on Sesshoumaru’s ‘youki’. “I’ve had enough extending for one night.”

She walked right past a silent and openly mortified Sesshoumaru, whose feminine cheeks had blushed instantly.

.

It was fair to say that Kagome had not been well trained as a miko. There just hadn’t been the time. She could access it alright, and directing it into her arrows had become almost second nature, but her main job had been detecting jewel shards. So, she just invested her energy into helping the best she can.

Sesshoumaru was currently telling her what a stupid idea that apparently was.

“What use is power if it is not trained?” his eyes rolled.

The fake taiyoukai stomped her foot. “I get by well enough!”

“I strongly beg to differ.”

“I seem to recall getting a shot or two on you before,” Kagome heckled and raised an aristocratic eyebrow. She was getting really good at the eyebrow thing.

Irritation radiated off of Sesshoumaru. “You were merely…” he stopped, then took a deep breath to calm himself. “Regardless, instruction from one another is required to survive long enough to reverse this most depraved predicament.”

Kagome's eyes narrowed to thin, annoyed slits. “You can just say, 'Hey, we should help each other’ or something.”

He snarled. “I do not say… ‘Hey’.”

The real miko couldn’t help it. He was being so snotty. “You do now. Hey!”

“Stop this.”

“Hey!” she continued, taunting the fuming trapped youkai. “Hey! Hey hey hey hey hey!” It sounded like he was barking, and the connection made Kagome laugh through Sesshoumaru once again.

She expected his anger, but was met with confusion instead, and she reached out for her own shoulder. “You okay?”

The daze in his eyes cleared. “Do not trouble yourself. It has been many years since…” Sesshoumaru pursed his lips. “Since I have heard my own laughter.”

She did not know how to respond. The honest and sad confession left her uneasy, letting guilt she wasn’t sure she earned began to rise inside her.

Suddenly uncomfortable, and not in the Trapped-Inside-A-Demon kind of uncomfortable, Kagome cleared her throat, desperate to change the subject. “Um, let’s just start, okay? I’m ready.”

“I doubt it,” Sesshoumaru baited. She would be annoyed except she no longer saw a fuming ire in his eyes. “Let us begin.”

...

Chapter Text

She felt the burn inside of her- felt the rolling, turbulent power within, wanting to be let out. Waiting.

Kagome filled her youkai lungs with sweet, cool air, and concentrated.

“Bring it to your fingertips” she tried telling herself. “Focus all of that dangerous, weird, light into a string… and…”

Kagome's golden eyes flew open and, with a flick of the wrist, tried to take down the intended target.

The tree stood steadfast, mocking her. She snarled, finding the inu growl that came from her extremely cathartic. She flicked her wrist again. Still nothing.

Again. And again. And again! She had done this before! Why was it being difficult now?

The tsk-tsk-tsk that followed only irritated her more. 

“You let your emotions control you," Sesshoumaru admonished, "It is not wise to depend on them for your power.”

Kagome sulked. “Well,” she retorted, “maybe it’s your powers being difficult! I can always seem to get to mine just fine when I need them.”

“Whenever you need them?”

Within the youkai body, Kagome was kicking herself. “...No, but-”

“You are weaker when you are panicked. You are panicked when you are in danger. And... you have an unique ability to find yourself in almost constant danger.” He leaned forward, arms crossed, and glared up into his own eyes. “It is most troublesome.”

She had to admit, Sesshoumaru’s ability to access her own power was amazing. In the past few days, and past few demon attacks, she had seen him shoot reiki from his hands and even purify a jewel shard. That last one had surprised the crap out of her.

Sesshomaru once again tugged on the green skirt, trying to will it to cover at least a fraction of more skin, then continued his lesson. “Perhaps if you thought of it as your own-”

This time, she interrupted. “But it isn’t the same!”

Sesshoumaru raised an eyebrow, then raised one hand in a fist. She watched as that fist exploded in purple and pink flames.

“Whoa…” She was awestruck, even if its proximity tingled the back of her neck. 

“Hn,” he replied. “Now, you.”

Kagome had her share of unhelpful teachers, but Sesshoumaru was quickly becoming the least helpful by far. However, knowing that this was the best she could hope for, she gritted her fangs and looked towards the offending tree once again.

“Think,” the fake miko said, “about something you want to protect. Then, know in your bones that you have the ability to.”

It almost sounded like a compliment, but Kagome realized that probably meant he was complimenting himself.

“That check outs,” she grumbled internally.

The swirling power within Sesshoumaru’s body was right there. She could feel it. But, the path was so allusive. When she wanted to access her own, she only had to think-

-'Oh!'-

-About what she wanted it to do, not where she wanted it to go. That burn inside her expanded, filling her long limbs with such an extreme warmth that Kagome felt like she could light up the world. Kagome smiled then thought of smiting the tree.

A loud crack exploded in all the previous silent spaces of their forest clearing. Large splinters rained down around them. Kagome threw her arms in the air and howled a victorious “Woo-hoo!”

“Miko!”

Kagome quickly turned towards herself and froze.

Sesshoumaru was hunched under a small spiritual barrier, surrounded by piles of very sharp shreds of the tree that could have easily torn through the human body he was borrowing from her.

“Your next lesson,” he growled, “is about being aware of your surroundings.”

...

Chapter Text

Sesshoumaru tried to get comfortable in his situation, but humans were like youkai infants. He was back to being a pup, controlled by his emotions and constantly eating or sleeping.. 

He was used to bathing once a month. Now the perpetual ritual became tiresome. ‘She’ could not even go more than four hours before feeling hunger pains. How humans found the time to do much else almost amazed him…

No wonder they were so inferior.

However…

He did not remember colors being so vibrant. Bright and sharp, sure, but not vibrant… Humans saw colors as if they were living things. Scents could be used to identify, certainly, but not the same way as he was used to. They tugged on emotional memories more than strictly telling him what they were. A campfire was not just char, smoke, and wood. Now, it was the soft hums of Rin and the kit telling bedtime stories under starry skies. Flowered fields were not just destinations, but the scent trapped in Rin’s hair as she cuddled into him to sleep. Their shared meal was more than sustenance. It tasted of comfort and home. The wind even tickled against his skin in a way he never noticed with his original body. The miko’s senses were not more sensitive than his had been, but the woman could revel in the simple sensation of a warm breeze.

Sesshoumaru figured that because humans did not last long they subconsciously found beauty and purpose in even the smallest thing. They extinguished so quickly, that they must have to live brighter.

He dearly missed his power and the way he moved through the world, but every now and then he would relax enough to see things through the miko’s eyes. Every time he found less and less to be lacking.

Even with all that beauty, the subjugation necklace still proved to be the greatest benefit of their ordeal.

.

Inuyasha had passed by the area five times already, but the scene never got easier to understand.

Sesshoumaru was instructing Kagome on archery.

The hanyou paid attention to every instruction, every small touch and quiet exchange of words. His patience was already razor thin. This was threatening to send him over the edge.

Irritated, he walked up behind the two as she pulled back for another shot, determined to break up whatever the hell was going on.

“It’s no use Sesshoumaru. She’s been at this for years already, still can barely hit anything.” He didn’t mean it. He just wanted Sesshoumaru to stop touching her.

Expecting subjugation, Inuyasha was shocked to get a growl from Sesshoumaru instead.

Wait… that wasn’t right.

Kagome released the arrow, this time closer to the center of the target than any other previous shot.

“Keh, lucky shot.”

Simultaneously, Sesshoumaru’s threatening gold and Kagome’s deep blue eyes met with his.  A promise of pain was within them both.

His stomach dropped with a familiar dread. He had been alone most of his life. There was a time when he truly believed he would be okay with that. But it wasn’t until right now that he realized how their new, found family actually meant to him. Because in their eyes was a threat of losing it all, and he once again felt like an outsider looking in.

“Osuwari.”

He crashed to the ground and they went right back to their lesson, ignoring him completely.

Inuyasha felt the world shift.

.

It was no secret that Inuyasha was rash and loud. Oftentimes, he would react… OVER react… whenever his understanding of the world altered.

In short, it was safe to say that Inuyasha was not a fan of change.

Sesshoumaru and Kagome were protecting each other. The implications alone caused his head to hurt and sense of reality to be completely readjusted. This was not something he could deal with on his own, and since Kagome was apparently busy , he would need a new confidant.

“Oi.”

With a small smile and almost silent sigh, Miroku relaxed his form, slowly opening one eye in the hanyou’s direction. What he saw was Inuyasha’s dark brows wrinkled together and hanging low over his eyes, his lips curled up in a dangerous scowl. His arms were crossed over his chest, but the red-clad hanyou was uncharacteristically still. He was angry… and quiet? This will not bode well.

“Miroku, what do you know about Kagome and Sesshoumaru?”

Both his violet eyes opened wide, betraying his false calm. Instantly, he avoided Inuyasha’s gaze and fidgeted nervously, his strong hand rubbing the nape of his neck. “Why, Inuyasha, what do you mean?” The innocent tone he had attempted failed.

Inuyasha noticed. “I think it’s really obvious what’s going on.”

Miroku actually thought they were being quite discreet. Did their hanyou protector finally find out about the late-night interludes between the least likely of pairings?

“Ah, hahaha. Well, the thing we must remember is these things are natural and, technically, no one is doing anything wrong.”

Inuyash’s hard-fought calm broke. With a growl, the hanyou had a fist shaking in the monk’s shocked face. “Like hell this is natural! This is my pack!”

Raising placting hands, Miroku argued back in quiet tones, “That doesn’t mean you lay claim on her heart.”

Inuyasha choked on his snarl and his entire posture sank. “What do you mean?”

Miroku almost froze. “What do you mean?”

“Sesshoumaru is using Kagome to take control of the jewel and the fight against Naraku, right?” Silently they both stared at the other. Inuyasha’s hackles rose. “Right?”

Miroku remained silent, unsure if he even wanted to clarify the situation for him.

“Miroku…” the hanyou’s voice broke. “R-right?”

“Inuyasha… I do not believe the jewel is what Sesshoumaru-sama desires.”

Their loyal and energetic alpha dropped his dog ears against messy, white hair and fell to the floor, staring off into the distance.

Though it pained Miroku to continue, he owed Inuyasha the truth. “And, I believe Kagome-sama returns his sentiments.”

The monk stood still, trying to comfort his friend by presence alone, but Inuyasha still felt numb. Sesshoumaru and Kagome weren’t conspiring against him. In fact, it had nothing to do with him.

He would rather have her treachery than indifference.

.

Emotions were tight within the small group the next day. The misinformation from Miroku coupled with Sesshoumaru and Kagome’s secret situation had everyone on edge to the point of paranoia. Inuyasha made it a point to walk way ahead of everyone else, unable to even chance seeing Kagome and his asshole brother together..

The hanyou bit back his growls until well past mid-day. He felt betrayed, unwanted, and worst of all, even though he was a good distance in front of the shard-hunters, he felt left behind.

Throughout their trek, Inuyasha purposely never took notice of Sesshoumaru in the back, or ‘his’ look of worry as her newly acquired youkai senses detected his growing sadness.

Kagome felt ashamed. She had become so involved with training to control youki that she had not been able to find a way to reassure Inuyasha. She had also lost track of the days. Tonight was the new moon and she was pretty sure the real Sesshoumaru had no idea what would happen.

.

As dusk approached and the group settled down for the night, Sesshoumaru took notice of their location. They had searched for an appropriate campsite for a long time today. It was more hidden than usual and was in prime placement to respond to an attack. He wondered why it seemed so important to them suddenly.

The sun dropped lower and he could sense a growing tension. As they set up camp, he heard whispers pass between the monk and demon slayer. 

“Do you think he knows already?”

“Should we tell Sesshoumaru?”

“Inuyasha should be the one to.”

“I don’t think he ever will.”

Curiosity nagged at him, but he would not blow their cover to ask. Too much had happened for him to confess now, so instead he made camp and kept quiet. Right when they sat down for dinner, however, Inuyasha had other plans.

“Kagome.”

His half-brother’s gravely tone made him suddenly aware that Inuyasha had not spoken for two days. He had become accustomed to listening to his bickering, but his voice sounded somewhat foreign now. He looked up, but the hanyou didn’t meet his eyes.

“Can we talk?”

With a small nod Sesshoumaru stood, followed his half-brother deeper into the woods and once again wished for his superior night vision back. Their dark path gave way to a small clearing, its edge marked with an abrupt drop to a deep valley. Inuyasha sat on the ledge, his silhouette highlighted by the fading sun, and waited for ‘Kagome’ to join him.

He had to feel around and then sat back a few inches from the edge. Curious, he looked towards Inuyasha. Tetsusaiga rested on his chest, his arms crossed protectively across it, and his eyes were locked on the darkening horizon.

The atmosphere grew thick as the quiet moments passed and the cool air swam over his exposed legs. Sesshoumaru grew tired of the wait and was about to speak when Inuyasha broke the silence.

“Do you think I’m weak?”

He did not know how to respond and choose instead to stare. In that moment of vulnerability, Inuyasha suddenly seemed much older and more mature than before.

After another moment, the hanyou spoke again. “Kagome, you know what you mean to this group. We wouldn’t even be together if it wasn’t for you.” 

Though his eyes were failing as the light faded, Sesshoumaru swore a blush began to taint the hanyou’s cheeks.

“I know I yell a lot, and I don’t know exactly how to express some things, but we are… I am… really thankful you come back time after time.”

Sesshoumaru did not know where the miko ever went without her friends, but never got the chance to ask.

Inuyasha closed his eyes. “Kags… I know now that you don’t belong to me, but I can’t help but feel possessive. It’s just my nature... Another weakness, I guess.”

In the next moment the sun had fallen completely behind the mountains. His breathing hitched and Sesshoumaru watched in almost amazement as the hanyou ears shrank and white hair transitioned to steely black. When he opened his eyes again they were a muted, deep violet instead of their hereditary gold.

He had heard of the once-a-cycle change for hanyou but had never seen it for fact. Now, it all made sense. He was born, and their sire died, on a new moon night. It was fitting that this would be the night for Inuyasha’s human form.

Instead of being disgusted, as he was expecting, he was transfixed.

Inuyasha truly had every disadvantage, from his half blood to a routine night when even that was not useful. He had been shunned by both races and casted out, yet had become strong. Through adversity he had earned respect and love, in contrast to the elder brother who was privileged with such at birth. Inuyasha fought with courage and passion and had become noble when the world labeled him useless.

If Inuyasha had been a full demon under the same circumstances, Sesshoumaru had no doubt he would have ended up a monster. Now, it was clear that the hanyou’s human heart was to thank for his strength. He was always brave, foolishly so, but for the first time Sesshoumaru acknowledged the halfling to be admirable. 

But, he remained quiet as Inuyasha looked at his blunt, human fingers with scorn.

“I do my best to protect you, to show what you mean to me. At first I thought that I wanted your love in return.”

Sesshoumaru froze. ‘He better not try to kiss me. For the love of all the gods, not that.’

“But now I realize that wasn’t it at all.”

Finally, Inuyasha turned and looked at his human best friend. She was stiff, and unusually quiet, but was still beautiful. She stared back expectantly for a quiet moment.

A smile still curled one corner of Inuyasha's lips. No fang poked out. “No one ever wanted me as a hanyou, Kags, but you never wanted me to be anything but.” He paused to grip onto Tetsusaiga tighter. “Things are getting difficult and the fights are more dangerous. I know Sesshoumaru is strong and better trained, but it should be me protecting you.” As he continued, Inuyasha’s teeth ground together and his words became flustered. “I just want you to… I mean, there may be a lot of things I’m not, but you know… Am I still… Do you still...?” He wanted to growl, but in his human form it came out as an irritated moan. He hung his head to hide his face behind a curtain of long, black hair.

Though his embarrassment was obvious, Inuyasha’s speech was eye-opening. The hanyou had been deserted and betrayed by everyone he had let near. That is, until Kagome came along. Sesshoumaru did not know how long it took, or what trials she went through to earn it, but she had something from Inuyasha that he gave to almost no one; his trust. Through her, the younger brother had built up true relationships and the strength to be who he was born to be, above and beyond what everyone expected of him. He was able to form this small, strong family complete with a weird body-swapping miko. 

No wonder it was hurting Inuyasha so much to think he might lose it.

Something inside his heart suddenly felt slightly empty. Also, stuck inside a human body as well, he began to understand his half-brother more. And it hurt.

Sesshoumaru could not speak for the miko on this matter. However, as his mind settled, he reached out the short distance between them and rested the small hand on his shoulder. The touch was not awkward, as was expected, but comforting to them both. The hanyou looked back into ‘Kagome’s’ blue eyes looking for a response and, for the first time since the switch, Sesshoumaru spoke to someone else honestly.

“It is alright, Inuyasha. I trust you.”

The trapped taiyoukai was glad Inuyasha had turned away in embarrassment so the hanyou could not see his own.

...

Chapter Text

The real Kagome sat a ways from where the others had made camp; nervously looking towards the direction her best friend and Sesshoumaru had disappeared to. She expected shouting, or even an “osuwari” or two, but it had stayed relatively silent- even -for her youkai hearing. In fact, she was so concentrated on trying to sense anything from their direction that she failed to notice her immediate surroundings.

So, when she felt a hand begin to run up her thigh, Kagome jumped in alarm.

.

Safely tucked far away in his dark, miasma-filled castle, Naraku observed the scene through Kanna’s mirror. Byakuya, transformed into Sesshoumaru, was closing in on their campsite.

The spider took pride in his devious plans. He enjoyed manipulating others’ weaknesses and connections in order to destroy them. This would be almost as sweet as when he had fooled Kikyo and Inuyasha. His illusion offshoot would seduce Kagome under the guise of Sesshoumaru, leading her away from the others with lustful promises, before taking her shards and corrupting her to his own side. Naraku’s skin tingled with the anticipation of having that annoying, fiery, honest miko bowing at his feet.

Through the mirror, he saw a dark figure resting far off in front of them. Byakuya slowly began to descend in their direction.

Naruku purred and his eyelids slid closed to imagine his victory. Soon, his revenge on Kikyo will be complete, and he would be one step closer to becoming the strongest demon to ever exist. With every moment that passed, his fate was revealed, and it was more glorious than he could have ever imagined. His half-lidded eyes and self-satisfied smile turned back towards the scene unfolding. This was providence, the world would be his, this…

…This was all WRONG!

Naraku opened his eyes to witness Byakuya, illusioned as Sesshoumaru, begin to fondle the real Sesshoumaru. 

Without the ability to stop Byakuya, Naraku screamed curses into the night.

.

Kagome had instantly made a mental list of the most improbable events ever.

One: The Universe saving her from hardship whenever possible.

Two : She receives perfect scores on her college entrance exams and has the oh-so-troublesome problem of deciding between the best schools in Tokyo.

Then three , and Kagome was convinced this would be on top of the list: Sesshoumaru sneaking up to suggestively rub her upper thigh.

It went without saying that the fact she was currently in the real Sesshoumaru’s body was not the only problem with this scenario.

Humiliated, Naraku’s hands covered his face and he peeped out through the slits of his fingers to watch the scene unfold. When the taiyoukai did not deliver a quick death to the imposter, he became confused. When Byakuga’s illusioned hand made its way to the demon lord’s hip, the spider noticed that Sesshoumaru was frozen from shock. And when his offshoot whispered in the inu’s ear and Sesshoumaru buried Byakuya’s head into the nearby tree trunk, Naraku clearly heard the dog demon let out a loud “EEP!” of embarrassment in a very… Kagome-like manner… 

And the pieces fell into place.

'The witch he sent for Sesshoumaru’s charge Rin… The change in character… Byukaga’s confusion… The claiming of her protection… 

Kagome… is… Sesshoumaru…'

.

Kagome was fifteen yards away, her skin tingling from the assault, before landing and turning angrily towards the fake Sesshoumaru.

Well, the other fake Sesshoumaru.

With his head still firmly planted into the trunk of the tree, the illusioned Byakuya slowly let out a bored “Ooowww…”, only moving once Kagome clumsily brought down a nearby branch with the still developing youki whip in irritation.

“What the hell was that for!?” she screamed. “And who the hell are you!?”

The illusion demon rubbed his neck slightly before popping the bones back into place. Taking a short glance towards the clearly irked woman, he dropped the façade and brought himself back to his feet and remarked, “I did not know priestesses could be so strong…”

“Wait…” Panicking, Kagome felt Sesshoumaru’s body go weak for the first time since the switch. This was Naruku’s incarnation, Byakuya, and he knew who she was. And if the offshoot could see the truth, then Naraku had to already know. With fear lacing her deep voice, she asked just to be sure. “Who do you think I am?”

Their eyes met over the dark distance, and the truth dawned on Byakuya, only now realizing his mistake. Too late he thought to check his surroundings. “Quite the predicament you are in, Sesshoumaru.” He turned his head slightly behind him, now addressing the demon lord approaching from behind.

“I would be worried over your own dilemma, filth,” Sesshoumaru replied in the dangerously sweet octaves of the body he possessed.

“Oh?” Even with the scent of purity dancing from the inuyoukai Byakuya managed to keep his tone level. “Not in a hurry to leave the little miko?”

With death in his eyes, Sesshoumaru smiled wide, feeling the feminine lips stretch easily with the malicious motion. He summoned what he could from Kagome’s powers, focused, then sent a burst of pink light directly towards the heart of the rancid demon.

He evaded, and Kagome once again summoned the whip to bring him down, but the damn illusionist was so fast. Internally, she was berating herself for her slow progress to control demonic powers. 

In the next instance, Byakuya was flying away and offering them a nonchalant wave in their direction.

Kagome had been growling, but as soon as she relaxed the panic set in again. “Oh nnnnnooooooooo!” she drew out, hiding her face behind shaking clawed hands. “Oh no, this is bad. This is very bad.”

“Hn,” Sesshoumaru agreed, squinting in the dark. The bursts of energy had effectively blinded him.

“What are we going to do?”

The real inuyoukai was quiet for a long moment, lamenting the sounds of anxious whimpering coming from his true body. “It is better Naraku discovered our secret,” his voice softened, “than Inuyasha’s own.”

The fake youkai’s breath hitched. Their enemy had been so close to them tonight, just a short distance from Inuyasha’s transformation. That would have been devastating.

“We should tell everyone,” Kagome said, the steady voice of the taiyoukai’s voice sounding resolute, but he was clicking her claws together in nervous, fidgeting apprehension. 

Instantly, Sesshoumaru responded. “No.”

“But!”

“No,” Sesshoumaru demanded again before turning his head away.

With his awesome eyesight, Kagome saw her own face flush in a bright blush that he was trying to hide. “You’re still embarrassed!? Come on, we are apparently terrible at keeping secrets.”

“Speak for yourself.”

“I can’t speak for myself, Sesshoumaru,” Kagome urged, gesturing to herself, “This is all falling apart! First Rin, now Naraku!”

Sesshoumaru's head whipped back around. “Rin!?”

“Oh, she figured it out, like, right away. She even pulled a knife on me.” New irritation sparked in her eyes. “Oh! That reminds me! Why would you give a small child a very sharp knife?”

“Dagger,” he corrected, pride blossoming in his small smile. “She is an odd human.” The smile dropped and she gave him a pointed glare. “I seemed to be cursed with an abundance of them.”

Her nose wrinkled. “Snob.”

“Brat.”

“UGH!” Kagome threw her arms in the air again. “This is stupid, I’m going go talk to everyone.” He turned to walk away, but Sesshoumaru grabbed her arm.

Except for a dead bear and the small touches from training, the real Kagome had gone a while without much contact. Now, surprisingly strong human hands gripped her arm, pleading with the intensity of their grip, and she felt a shiver go up her spine.

“Please,” Sesshoumaru asked, and Kagome's golden eyes widened. The uneasy tension grew as the real Sesshoumaru paused, clearly uncomfortable with having to beg.

He sighed. “We will elicit assistance from your group soon, but not tonight.”

She searched her own face for the unspoken reason and noticed how unfocused the blue eyes were. It was really dark with the new moon-

The moon !

Inuyasha…

Kagome didn’t know what happened with the brothers earlier that night, but she did know how deeply personal the change was to her best friend. Whatever they had talked about, or experienced, Kagome realized that Sesshoumaru didn’t want to ruin it.

That was almost… endearing.

The real Sesshoumaru let go and faced away.

“Okay,” her deep voice finally acquiesced. “Not tonight. But, we should be getting back.” Awkward about seeing something so personal inside Sesshoumaru, Kagome quickly turned to make her way through the thick forest, the large leather boots of the inuyoukai hardly making a sound.

She made it fifteen yards before hearing someone trip and fall behind her. 

“Oh, right,” Kagome remembered sheepishly. “You probably can’t see, huh?”

An irritated grumble was the only answer.

She chuckled low in her throat and came back to help him up, joking, “Humans are so frail.”

Sesshoumaru growled with an impressive tremor while stumbling in the dark. “That is not amusing. You are not amusing.”

…

Chapter Text

It was rather late when they returned to the small camp. Inuyasha had apparently stayed back wherever he had disappeared before his transformation. It puzzled Kagome for a moment before she realized it was because of Sesshoumaru. Her demon heart felt heavy with guilt. He did not want Sesshoumaru to know about his weakness and, suddenly, their little secret wasn’t so harmless anymore. She resolved that the real demon would just have to get over whatever embarrassment he was feeling. 'Three days…' she promised herself. 'Then, I’ll tell Inuyasha.'

The miko imitator struggled to crawl into the bundle of blankets and children on the other side of the camp. It stirred Rin awake, but thankfully the kit was still oblivious to the world.

The little girl gently called out, still half-asleep, “Sessho…..ama” and he smiled. When his ward’s eyes fully opened, she balked.

Cooly, Sesshoumaru said, “You have been keeping secrets, little one.” If it had been his own voice it would have sounded menacing, but because it was Kagome’s it came out cheerfully.

Rin blushed and whispered, “It was supposed to be a game, one that you wanted to play.” She sulked, clearly thinking she was in some sort of trouble now.

With the warm, calloused hand of the human he possessed, Sesshoumaru was able to reach out and tenderly lift her chin to meet his blue eyes again. “You did well. Keep doing so for now.”

He could barely see her face in the dark, but could feel her bright smile grow. “Hai!” she whispered eagerly, then laid her head down to drift back off to sleep.

Even with the excitement of the evening, or maybe especially so, Sesshoumaru rode the waves of exhaustion from his human body and soon was asleep as well.

All was quiet in the camp, especially with the little fox child who was focusing on pretending to sleep. In fact, he had even stopped breathing to listen to the muted conversation between Rin and his Kagome.

Shippo barely slept the rest of the night, suddenly very jealous that they would have a game without him. So, ever the trickster, he began plotting a new game they could all play together.

…

The answer came the next day on the wind, with a trail of dust and floundering wolves in his wake.

Kagome tensed as she sensed a fast-approaching presence, but it was Inuyasha unsheathing Tetsusaiga that got the group’s attention. “What the hell does that stupid wolf want now!?” he seethed, only seconds before Koga appeared before them.

The wind was knocked out of the miko’s lungs as Koga held her close. His rough hands encased her own and the fur of his garments tickled her bare thighs below the hem of the obscene “uniform” skirt.

“Ah!” the wolf prince grinned down at ‘her’, “There’s my woman!”

‘Kagome’ did not return his more-than-friendly greeting with her normal shy chuckle and gentle dismissal. She did not take his unsolicited advances with an uneasy grin or offer placating strokes to his ego.

Because this was not Kagome in his arms.

This was the Killing Perfection himself. So, as the wolf’s musky breath danced across the infuriatingly sensitive human skin of the miko, Sesshoumaru squared his borrowed hips and readied.

Koga’s bright, sky blue eyes danced with mirth and desire. Sesshoumaru gritted blunt teeth and growled.

“So, Kagome, You ready to leave this mutt and- OOF!”

The trapped taiyoukai’s attack was aimed with perfect precision, due to the fact that he knew, from personal experience, exactly where to hit.

With a pitiful groan, Koga crumpled into a fetal position on the ground. 

‘Kagome’ huffed and turned away from the shaking body of the handsy wolf. The prince’s two charges began prattling over Koga, but she didn’t look back.

Sesshoumaru began to walk off into the tree line, when in the next instant, Inuyasha was next to him with the most self-satisfied smile he had ever seen on another being.

“Kagome,” Inuyasha praised, “I’ve been waiting for you to do that all damn year.”

.

“Oi!” Koga yelled, still trying to recover his breath. “What was that for!?”

A sly smile stretched across Shippo’s face, and he turned to Rin. Puzzled, she cocked her head, but he only answered with a wink and a whisper. “Play along with me on this.”

Rin didn’t have time to stop him.

“Oh, Koga, that’s what you get for touching things that aren’t yours.”

The wolf snarled his response while gesturing to Inuyasha. “Since when do you take that dog’s side, kit?”

“I’m not,” Shippo beamed, then pointed at an almost pitiful looking Sesshoumaru. “I’m taking THAT dog’s side.”

.

It was just supposed to cause a little ruckus. It was a game. A joke that Shippo can share with Rin and Kagome. Nothing serious. If Koga had been genuine with his advances, he would have made good on them ages ago. If Inuyasha truly had a problem with Sesshoumaru claiming protection over Kagome, he wouldn’t have allowed the elder brother to travel with them for this long. And if Sesshoumaru was honestly irked by any of this, they would all be dead by now.

Shippo expected a dick measuring contest, some false promises of love and death, and maybe even an ‘Osuwari’.

What he didn’t expect was the long pause to be broken by Koga’s incessant laughter.

...

Chapter Text

As the wolf tried to calm himself, his vassals stared at Shippo with absolute incredulousness.

"THAT dog?" questioned Ginta.

"With a HUMAN?" Hakkaku echoed his partner's tone.

"How is she still alive!?"

"Better yet, how is HE not purified yet?"

The kit's triumphant grin sank as Koga was spurred further into hysterics by their musings. Any pleasure Inuyasha enjoyed by witnessing the wolf prince brought low also disappeared. His expression turned cold and he looked to the ground to hide his eyes. "Keh," he said to no one as the arm wrapped around Kagome's shoulders dropped. "Idiot."

Sesshoumaru gritted his human teeth. 

...

"You have-" Koga choked out towards his tribe, trying to smother his laughter. "You have to stop!"

"No," Sango responded, rolling her eyes. "You have to stop. Honestly..." The slayer looked towards Miroku for support, but was shocked to find him pale and frozen.

He was staring at the taiyoukai, expecting either a confession or a deadly show of force, and was honestly unsure if he would be able to stop either. However, the terrifying dog demon seemed to be just as tentative as he was.

In any case, it wasn't Sesshoumaru who had reacted. 

"Kagome would NEVER!-" Koga began, but stopped short. The miko had approached him with such gentle, steady steps that he did not even notice her moving until she was almost on top of him. Her deep, serious gaze froze his next words in his throat, and her eyes weren't even on him.

Unconcerned with Koga's antics, Sesshoumaru stepped over the prone wolf demon, made difficult by his currently shorter legs, and made his way to Rin; pale and shaking at the edge of the forest path.

...

'Wolves,' Sesshoumaru thought as he wrapped the miko's strong arms around the small girl. She did not protest as he cradled her to his chest. On the ground, he could see the dagger and he lamented the loss of his flying capabilities now more than ever before. 'She recognized them as wolves and drew her blade to fight.

'I am a fool.'

Rin's silent sobs soaked Kagome's white blouse as he walked into the tree line, shielding his ward from her nightmares and his mistake.

'I am a fool to expect her to live and to fight as a youkai.'

Once they were obscured by the forest, Rin quietly sobbed, "I'm sorry, Sesshoumaru-sama."

The guilt lanced his heart. "No," he commanded. "This one is to blame."

"But, I-"

"It was unwise to arm you in the event I would not be there to protect you." He gathered his strength and looked down into the girl's eyes, grateful that Kagome's features naturally conveyed emotions. His own were just too unaccustomed to it. "I will always be there to protect you."

...

Chapter Text

Youkai children were often left alone to defend themselves. It was just the way things were done.

When Rin had found him on the brink of death, snarling and vicious, she had approached him anyways. At the time, it had made a strong enough impression on him that he believed her to be more than mortal. When he took her under his care, he had tried to blur the lines between human and demon. Perhaps it was in an attempt to reason why she was kept close, but regardless, she was his charge and he fell back on the traditions he was accustomed to.

She was to find her own food. She was to ensure her needs were met and her protection secured. After their first month of traveling together, Sesshoumaru gifted her with the dagger. She was not as excited about the prospect as he thought she would be.

He had only thought about how raising a young one was done, not why, and had completely forgotten how he had felt when the same was done to him. Looking back, he could not remember what dangers there were, only that he was small and afraid. He had clung too tightly to the blade he was given. It had been the first live edge he had ever held and his hands had been stiff for days afterwards. As a child, it felt wrong. As an adult, he wondered why that inclination did not stay with him until he had repeated the same mistake.

Rin sniffled in his arms again, using the artificial feeling fabric of the miko's collar to wipe her cheeks, and he sighed deep. He had thought her more than a human. For a time, he thought Kagome was as well. But, after living in Kagome's body, he now understood their strength even more.

Rin did not originally approach him because she did not fear him. With the aura he had been projecting and snarls he sent her way, she must have been terrified. Yet, her heart reached out. She was resilient, as anyone who had been through her horrors and come out smiling would be, but that was not her strength. At her lowest point she had reached out to another in need. She was gentle and, above all else, she loved others gently. A blade in her hands was an affront to what made her special.

The miko, on the other hand, was an entirely different force he had tried to reckon with. Trapped inside, he knew fear did not slide off of her the way she projected. The string of constant battles and supernatural hardships had built up an instinctual response to fear within her body. Adrenaline would shoot through her veins whenever he detected a jewel shard. Her heart thrummed and breaths quickened when they were under attack. She was not a controlled fighter or a trained killer, but she was persistent. And stubborn. And opinionated. The miko could be face-to-face with Evil itself and demand it to rethink its nature.

He smiled a fraction, remembering how fierce and foolish Kagome had looked the many times she had stood up to him. He had tried to use fear to subdue her, which was a folly. Fear was an inferior weapon against those who love fiercely.

And she did. She had proven that she would give herself twice over for those she held dear. Now, she was given up something for him; her time.

Humans had such precious little time. If he understood it correctly, Kagome's true life was in a different era all together. Her quest was bearing down on them all, each day bringing them closer to what could be the end. She was running out of time, yet she gave him part of it so he could hide his shame of their predicament within her own body. He took a deep breath in through her lungs and felt the strength in her core. Her arms cradled Rin close, never faltering. Her calloused hands and bandaged knees spoke of her endurance. She was powerful, he could feel it singing through her, but he was previously mistaken to believe it was the reiki that gave her such power. It was her heart that gave her spirit the room it needed to grow so large. Kagome just never knew how to fully wield it.

For all off his own strengths, he was still being humbled by his greatest weakness. In his mind, he had assumed Kagome should have been grateful for the opportunity to harness his gifts while he had been offered the raw end of their dilemma. Humans were weak and were to be seen as inferior. It was just the way things were done. His overabundance of pride had done nothing but blind him.

Sesshoumaru thought of the miko he inhabited, of her unwavering loyalty and unending well of compassion, and felt small in comparison. She had given him so much just by giving him time to be her. Truly, was there a greater gift and sacrifice a mortal could give to another than their time?

...

Chapter Text

After Kagome had disappeared into the woods, Koga looked back to the rest of the group.

"Oi! Dog Breath! What the hell is going on?"

Inuyasha rose his gaze from the ground, but did not look at the wolf.

The real Kagome caught her best friend's steady and sad eyes then felt her heart drop. For a beat, they stared at each other; Inuyasha at Sesshoumaru, Kagome at Inuyasha, and she felt the severity of her lie threaten to break the bond they had.

"Keh," the hanyou finally responded as he turned away. "Nothing that has anything to do with you." With a sigh he added, "Or me," and Kagome would have missed the quiet continuation if it wasn't for her superior hearing.

She took a step towards him. "That's not-" then stopped once she heard Sesshoumaru's voice form her words.

Inuyasha looked back towards her, staring deep into Sesshoumaru's eyes with a resolution he reserved for only his toughest challenges. "Don't you go denying her," he commanded. "Don't you do that to her, too."

At a lost, Kagome regained the step forward she had taken, backing away from all the eyes staring at her and waiting. She needed to find Sesshoumaru.

She took another step, then turned from them without a word. Suddenly, she was desperate to make this right, but she couldn't do it alone. She needed... well, Herself. Inuyasha would never listen to his big brother claiming he was actually Kagome in disguise. Ironically, it had to come from her own lips. 

Koga's jaw dropped while he watched the great taiyoukai seemingly flee from a conversation about his relationship status with a human. In fact, the scene had transfixed everyone so much that Shippo had slipped away unnoticed several minutes before.

A heavy, sympathetic hand dropped onto Koga's shoulder. With a start, he broke his gaze away from the spot where his Kagome and the mutt's prissy brother had vanished to. Ginta was almost wincing. "I'm sorry, boss."

On his other shoulder another hand clasped down, squeezing it a little to comfort him, and Hakkaku sighed. "Yeah, that sucks. There's no way you could compete with that."

Chapter Text

Shippo hid in the brush as he spied on the two girls, lamenting that he had not found a better hiding spot. The distance that separated them was not too great, but he could barely make out a word between them. Focusing with every sense he had, the kit tried to discern what they might be talking about. Rin had been upset over something- something that Kagome apparently knew all about- but no matter how hard he tried to listen the answers were not forthcoming.

He had been concentrating so hard, in fact, that he did not notice he had company until it was too late.

His ear twitched. The lack of a forest's normal whispers rose his hackles. Then, he felt the oppressive energy near him. No, directly behind him.

Sesshoumaru had caught him.

The breath abruptly halted in his lungs. Tiny squeaks escaped his shaky lips as he turned to face the tall inuyoukai that stared down at him. His green eyes widened and, even though every instinct told him to run, his fear kept him frozen in place. He expected anger from him. A growl and a swipe of his claws. A wrinkled brow, even.

Instead, he watched as the mighty demon's posture sank and those sharp, citrine-hard eyes softened. "Oh, Shippo-chan," Sesshoumaru said, his voice sympathetic and maternal. "I'm so sorry."

Shippo's sanity snapped.

...

Chapter Text

Sesshoumaru’s human hearing noticed the intruders as they broke through the clearing. He cradled Rin in the lithe, warm arms of Kagome, and she carried a clearly traumatized Shippo in his own.

Kagome had been cooing to the kit as best she could with his baritone voice, and he was surprised to see himself capable of comforting others with his own body. Rin noticed them as well right when Kagome looked towards the real Sesshoumaru.

“We have to tell them.”

He did not need an explanation. Their secret had hurt the most vulnerable. It had already gone too far.

.

Inuyasha smacked the dust off his haori as soon as Kouga left. It wasn’t that he was particularly dirty, but being around the wolf reminded him that he was better than others viewed him. A bit of preening only aided him in his mindset.

Also, he could feel Miroku and Sango’s eyes on him, wanting a solidifying word or gesture to put them at ease. Their group seemed to revolve around the swinging emotions of himself and Kagome, as much as he hated to admit the fact. It wasn’t that he wanted to always be on the defensive; it’s just that he still hadn’t fully learned how to trust completely yet. He smiled their way, just enough for them to know he was alright, then sat with his back to them, awaiting the approaching auras from the forest.

.

“Does this mean Rin doesn’t have to keep your secret anymore?”

Sesshoumaru nodded, his arms quickly fatiguing with their human strength.

Shippo had finally found his voice. “How long have you been each other?”

Kagome shrugged, the burden of the mokomoko and heavy armor far from her mind. “A while; since we fought that witch that captured Rin.”

Shippo cuddled close to Kagome, even though her body was Sesshoumaru’s, and looked up with half-focused eyes. “How are you going to tell Inuyasha?”

Her steps faltered, almost unable to go on. The potential of Inuyasha’s reaction to her betrayal of trust weighed heavier on her than even the burden of the Shikon no Tama.

.

“Inuyasha,” the monk called out. “Should we look for Kagome-sama?”

The hanyou rubbed his nose along the rough fabric of the firerat. “Nah,” he tried to sound casual. “They are on their way back here.”

Despite his dismissive response, Miroku still climbed up after him. Once he settled on the large branch by his side, he said, “You have grown much since I met you.”

“Leave me alone.”

Miroku breathed deep. Inuyasha’s posture sank.

“We all love you. Myself, Sango, Shippo, and Kagome most of all.”

Inuyasha’s felt the burning in his nose spread to his eyes and could not stop the tears that formed. He could, however, keep them from falling. He had much practice with that.

As a human, Miroku could not smell the salt from the hanyou’s tears, but as a close friend, he could sense the sorrow. Placing a strong hand on Inuyasha’s shoulder, he continued, “I know you don’t doubt her; so trust her. She only wants happiness for us all.”

.

Holding their adopted children in foreign arms, the switched demon lord and priestess were quickly reaching the edge of the thick woods. Sesshoumaru could feel an end between them coming near. When they told others, they would not be alone in their secret. He felt apprehensive, but he could not name what it was that made him anxious.

As he did in most uncomfortable situation, he teased the other party. “Tell me, Miko,” he called out in the darkening forest. “Can we expect anyone else to harass our person in the near future?”

He could feel Kagome’s ire as the yokai she possessed swelled. “You make it sound like it’s a common thing.”

He kept his eyes on the ground- his poor eyesight failing him in the fading light. “If we are being honest, there have been far too many instances of egregious actions against yourself.”

Sparks flickered against his temporary reiki when she called back, “What’s that’s supposed to mean!?”

“First, there's striding Inuyasha.”

“Okay, that isn't exactly-”

“Then," he interrupted, “there was the monk.”

Shippo even snickered through his daze. “Yeah, that's fair,” Kagome begrudgingly agreed.

“You also apparently let a wolf handle you in quite... intimate ways.”

“I don't think I like what you are implying, Sesshoumaru.”

“I am not one to guilt others over their pleasures.”

"Oh!" If she was really a dog, her hackles would have risen sky-high. “How dare you! That is not-”

“However, a warning would have been appreciated.”

She fell silent and Sesshoumaru smirked, the mischievous victory of whatever battle they were fighting feeling natural in Kagome’s body.

“Well,” she finally retorted, mastering the use of his smooth voice, “Naraku is known to be a bit handsy.”

Sesshoumaru felt the blood drain from his borrowed face.

“Or, ‘tentacle-y’, you could say.”

Almost horrified, he replied, “Now I am judging you.”

All confidence fled her tone and she shrieked, “I don't ask for it!”

...