“Ah! What fortuitous circumstances~” Miroku walked, suddenly energized, into a prosperous village clearly in the throes of matsuri. The group trailed tiredly behind him. “And to think only moments ago, I yearned for nothing more than a hot cup of tea and a welcoming bosom to –”
The distinct sound of flesh hitting flesh resounded and a cluster of nearby birds noisily took flight in fear.
“Shut it, pervert!” Sango stormed past him, shoulder-checking him in her anger.
“That idiot… he never learns.”
Kagome glanced at Inuyasha who walked sedately beside her, Shippo on his shoulder.
You’re one to talk… she thought with a small shake of her head.
“Sango, wait up!” The miko called to her friend, picking up her pace and leaving the males in her group behind.
The festival appeared to be in full effect, the narrow street decorated with brightly lit red and white lanterns. The shops were filled with patrons, some stumbling blissfully along in drunken indifference.
“Wow… these people sure know how to party, huh?”
Sango huffed, a smirk growing on her face. “I feel like things have been so… bleak lately; it’s nice to know that’s not the case for everyone.”
Fireworks lit up the horizon in a distant part of the sprawling village – more like a city, really – and Kagome admired human ingenuity, even in this distant past.
“Yeah,” Kagome sighed, a smile blooming on her face. “It is, isn’t it.”
The crowded street the group walked along funneled into an open space, backlit with seemingly infinite lanterns. A deep, pleasant voice captivated the festival-goers with a melody of unrequited love and yearning.
Kagome’s senses were instantly drawn to a familiar vibration in the undercurrents surrounding the area. His aura was distinct, and blue eyes widened as she surveyed the space, looking for any traces of silver and white.
Her brows furrowed when she failed to locate the stoic Lord of the West, though with each pass of her eyes, she was compelled to pause for a moment on the vocal performer.
He sat, cross-legged, upon a dais, dark hair flowing freely about his waist. Bangs obscured his eyes, and Kagome moved closer, hoping to glimpse their color.
“Hey, Kagome! Where ya goin?”
Glancing over her shoulder, she assessed Inuyasha’s demeanor. He seemed relaxed enough – as relaxed as he ever was, anyway. Could he not feel his brother’s youki? Was she wrong? After all, she still hadn’t discovered his location… though she’d bet her first aid kit he was somewhere nearby.
And…
Looking at the man singing on the platform, she couldn’t help but feel that he was the demon lord. So… why couldn’t her friends feel his youki?
“I’m gonna listen for a bit. I’ll find you soon; promise,” she told her furry-eared friend, throwing a smile in his direction.
He moved to follow her, begrudgingly.
“Tch, I’ll stay with you. As often as you find trouble, there’s no telling what you’ll get into in a place like this. Sango, Miroku, take Shippo and go get a room for the night.”
“You can count on me, my friend,” Miroku said, steering the others away, grinning all the while.
Kagome stopped cold, her back to her friend.
She knew he meant well, but she couldn’t help feeling belittled by his statement.
Taking a subtle breath, she glanced up at the stage as the human-looking male finished his sorrowful tale.
Would he sing another song?
“Inuyasha.”
“Yeah?”
Kagome flashed him a million mega-watt smile over her shoulder, and he stumbled, his ears flattening to his head.
“I said I’d catch up. So, don’t follow me, ‘kay~”
Despite the smile, the twitch beneath her eye told him all he needed to know, and the inu stepped back slowly.
“Fine, but don’t take forever or I’ll come lookin’ for ya,” he conceded gruffly.
Waving him away, she ventured closer to the stage, bowing politely to anyone she made eye contact with until she found herself close enough to make out his features in the light of the flickering lamps.
He’d yet to notice her, or so it seemed, so she perused him subtly.
His clothing was lavish, his black hair silky, and his eyes were the rich brown of melted chocolate.
Even disguised as a human she couldn’t mistake him for anyone other than himself – Lord Sesshomaru.
His smooth voice blanketed the audience again, and Kagome found herself entranced along with everyone else.
“Woah…”
How unexpected…
If she wasn’t so certain it was Sesshomaru, she’d think her senses were deceiving her. But, no. There was no mistaking his youki.
How can no one else tell? Especially Inuyasha?
Her eyes trailed over him slowly, trying to pinpoint how it was he held a human disguise, but more importantly, how her hanyou friend had been so oblivious to his half-brothers presence.
Coming up empty, she shrugged.
Maybe a charmed ring or magical shoes?
Whatever it was, it worked magnificently. For everyone aside from herself, apparently.
Lifting her eyes from his leather footwear, she was surprised to find his eyes upon her.
Deep brown widened imperceptibly before flitting away to glance quickly over the audience as if searching for someone.
The cosplaying lord finished his rendition before dipping his head slightly to the audience, standing fluidly and walking gracefully from the dais.
Kagome watched him for only a moment before springing into motion and pressing her way through the festival-goers.
“Wait!” She called, bumping shoulders with someone as she passed. Stopping to bow an apology, she hurried forward, keeping her eyes on the broad-shouldered male gliding away from her. “Excuse me! Please, wait!”
She hesitated a moment. Would it be weird to start a random conversation with him?
But, he’d saved her in the past and they were fairly well acquainted by now. So… would it be okay to talk to him?
Or perhaps he wanted his identity secret for a reason.
So… should she not talk to him? But that didn’t feel like the right choice, even though he was walking away from her.
Maybe I keep it short and sweet. A quick ‘fancy seeing you here,’ or ‘wow, what a nice voice you have!’
She shook her head just as she reached him. She’d just have to wing it.
“Excuse me!”
She reached out to touch his shoulder and he tensed before his muscles relaxed and he glanced at her over his shoulder. Once again, warm brown eyes surveyed the people behind her.
“…yes?” He finally asked, his eyes falling back to her.
She couldn’t help it; she gave him a big, cheesy grin, her eyes sparkling in the lamp light.
His pupils dilated as he watched her and her smile widened a little further.
“Hi! Im Kagome,” she offered a quick bow before righting herself, smile still in place. She couldn’t believe her luck and doubted she’d ever get to witness such a thing a second time. “Im sorry to intrude, but… it’s been a while since I’ve heard such lovely music.”
Kagome thought he looked slightly uncomfortable and had to keep her amusement under wraps. What were the odds?
“Do you perform here often?” She wondered aloud, not giving him a chance to respond before she continued. “My friends and I are passing through, so I thought I must be incredibly lucky to have been able to witness your performance.”
He cleared his throat before offering a noncommittal grunt. “I am here on occasion.”
Pleased that he answered her, she laughed. “Well, you’re incredibly talented. You’d be really popular where I come from. Lots of fan girls!”
He scoffed under his breath. “I have no need for such frivolities.”
“Of course not.” Her smile softened, becoming almost teasing. Somehow, she felt less intimidated with him in his disguise. Like they were playing a game, and she finally had a one-up on him. She knew his secret, for surely it had to be a secret. Why else would he pretend to be human? This added comfort allowed her to be less tense around the stoic lord. “Um… will you stay for the festivities?”
Sesshomaru seemed to observe her, quietly calculating before he finally spoke. “I had not planned to.”
For some reason, she felt mildly disappointed. She saw how he seemed to enjoy himself on stage. Perhaps she could repay him for saving her life by helping him enjoy the festival.
“Hmm… any chance I could change your mind? It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed a festival.” He seemed to hesitate and she grinned up at him. “My treat?”
His eyes narrowed, and Kagome finally remembered who she was talking to. This was not some human with a noteworthy voice – no matter how good his disguise. This was Sesshomaru. A Daiyoukai. A cold, ruthless, powerful demon!
Well… he’s not entirely cold or ruthless, she conceded. Still…
“Sorry,” she backtracked, waving her hands in front of her. “Forget I asked. I’m sure you’re busy.” Stepping back, she offered a formal bow, and when she pulled herself back up, she offered another winning smile. “Another time, maybe.”
With that, she turned and walked away, becoming lost in the crowd as she headed in the direction her friends had taken.
She didn’t look back, though she’d swear she could feel his heated eyes on her until she disappeared from sight.
:::::::::
It was Inuyasha who alerted the traveling group to Sesshomaru’s approach, though Kagome had felt his presence drawing near for several minutes.
Only moments later the familiar visage of the Lord of the West could be spotted on the horizon as he flew sedately toward them.
“I wonder what he wants,” Inuyasha mumbled, his hand poised on the hilt of Tetsusaiga. “Can’t be anything good. Never is with him.”
“Hmm… he hasn’t attacked us in some time, my friend. On the contrary, he’s been quite helpful,” Miroku supplied, though he too held his staff warily.
“He doesn’t seem the type to stop in for a friendly visit,” Sango added, eyes held fast on the approaching youkai.
“Let’s not jump to conclusion, guys. Maybe he needs help with something?”
Inuyasha gave Kagome the side-eye over his shoulder.
“Don’t be stupid, Kagome. Like he’d ever demean himself by asking us for help.”
“Inuyasha,” the priestess growled. “Don’t be rude!”
“Does his brash behavior truly surprise you, priestess?” Sesshomaru’s rich voice called from overhead as he lowered elegantly to the ground, and Inuyasha whipped around to face him. “Even after all this time?”
“Sesshomaru,” the hanyou spat, withdrawing his sword a fraction from its sheath. “Why are you here?”
Kagome sighed, shaking her head. He just never learned.
“Inuyasha, must you always be so noisy?”
“My thoughts precisely.”
“Who asked you?” Inuyasha grumbled at his brother before turning to Kagome. “Shut it, wench. I’m tryin’ to protect you, here!”
Ignoring his brother completely, Sesshomaru directed his amber gaze to Kagome.
“Priestess, this one would have a word with you.”
Kagome’s eyes widened and she stupidly pointed at herself. “Me?”
“You,” he nodded, the corners of his lips twitching in amusement.
In front of her, Inuyasha sputtered, finally drawing his sword entirely. “Like hell! Kagome ain’t goin’ anywhere with you!”
“Um… sure, I’ll go. Where?”
He nodded once, pivoted and strode away. “Come.”
“Kagome! You’re not going with him. I won’t let you do something so stupid. You really are an idiot!” Inuyasha blocked her way, flinging his arm out to stop her. “Bastard! You ain’t takin’ her anywhere!”
Sesshomaru didn’t so much as falter, trusting she’d follow. Somehow she felt a little miffed about that. She didn’t have to go; she did so of her free will.
Sighing, she looked between Inuyasha and Sesshomaru. She had to admit she was curious. She also didn’t want to upset her friend.
Dogs, she thought with a shake of her head.
“I won’t go far, Inuyasha,” she offered, her palm coming to rest on his forearm. She smiled at his worried look. “If he tries anything, I’ll give him a little zap. But I don’t think you have to worry.”
“Kagome…”
The defeated look in Inuyasha’s eyes was almost enough to make her stay, but whatever Sesshomaru needed from her, it could be important.
“I’ll be okay. Promise.”
“Stay where I can see you,” he finally conceded and she giggled.
“Yes, father.”
She stepped around the hanyou, hurrying to catch up to the waiting daiyoukai.
She trailed behind him until they were out of earshot but still within sight. When he suddenly stopped, she paused as well, waiting for him to speak.
When a moment passed with no words, she opened her mouth to prompt him.
“Lord Sesshomaru –”
“You knew it was me,” he interrupted, turning to face her.
Her brows rose before scrunching together, and she tipped her head in silent question.
“Several nights ago,” he explained patiently, adding: “The festival.”
He lips formed a circle as comprehension dawned.
Then her eyes widened and she felt her cheeks grow warm.
She’d asked him to enjoy the festival with her. She’d basically…
Asked him out on a date! How embarrassing! What am I going to do?!
She could lie, but she was a terrible liar. He’d probably know anyway. Well, you reap what you sow. Squaring her shoulders, she lifted her chin and looked him in the eye.
“Yes. I knew it was you. Unexpected as it was, I’m still glad I got to see it for myself.” A thought occurred to her and she lost her bravado, eyeing him suspiciously. “You’re not going to kill me now, are you?”
Scoffing, he folded his hands into his sleeves and eyed her.
“Have you mentioned this to anyone?”
“Not my business,” she shrugged.
“Not even Inuyasha?”
She fought a smile as she watched the proud male fret over his secret being found out. But she didn’t make him wait long to be reassured.
“No, Lord Sesshomaru. It’s not my secret to tell.”
He frowned at her choice of words and she almost laughed.
“Very well.”
There was silence for a moment, and she parted her lips to speak but he beat her to it.
“You asked this one to accompany you during the festival,” he said, almost awkwardly, as he turned away and Kagome trained all her senses on him.
She’d never seen him less than impeccable, so to see him even slightly vulnerable now was like… seeing a total solar eclipse – once in a lifetime.
“I did, yes,” she said softly, taking in his profile.
Amber eyes slid to her. “Though you knew who it was you were speaking to. This one must wonder why.”
Kagome softened further, relaxing fully and offering another blinding smile. “That’s easy! You’ve done a lot for me, and I wanted to repay that kindness with some of my own.” She hesitated, biting her lip. “And also… I thought maybe you’d have fun. I’m assuming no one knew who you were. You’d be free to loosen up a bit.” She shrugged a shoulder, glancing away as her cheeks warmed again.
When she looked in his direction, he was facing her fully one more, his head tilted slightly as he scrutinized her.
A smirk played at the corner of his lips, and even that small change in his expression seemed to soften his face.
Kagome’s heart sped up in reaction, and she had to glance away again lest she swoon like one of those fan girls she mentioned before.
Oh wow, he’s one good looking guy… especially when he smiles.
“Hn. Unexpected, indeed.”
Kagome felt him draw closer and lifted her eyes to him curiously. He stopped right in front of her, amusement in his eyes.
“Another time, maybe.” He repeated her words to him at the festival, and she couldn’t contain the goofy smile that lit up her face.
Was he flirting with her?
There’s no way… right?
“It’s a date, then,” she joked with a wink. “But, only if you sing for me.”
His smirk grew until she could see the point of his ivory cuspid.
“A date, then.” Grasping her hand, he brought it to his lips, brushing them softly over her knuckles and she nearly choked on her own saliva. “Until then… Kagome.”
Kagome blinked and he was gone, her hair and clothing whipping around in the breeze he created as he sped away like a flustered teenager who’d just given his crush chocolates on white day.
Kagome stood there, gobsmacked, glancing between the direction she thought Sesshomaru had taken and back toward her friends who were now running in her direction.
What the heck just happened? Did I… am I… did I just agree to a date with Sesshomaru?
Seems her life was full of the unexpected. She should be used to it by now.
Although… she couldn’t deny that there was a giddy feeling in her stomach, and she found herself looking forward to the moment that ‘another time’ arrived.
“Kagome! Did that bastard just kiss your hand?! Hurry and go wash his disgusting slobber off so I don’t have to smell it!”
Though she smiled, she couldn’t help the sigh that left her. Turning to face her friends, she pinpointed the one with silver ears.
“Inuyasha~”
His ears flattened and he slammed the breaks, skidding to a stop.
“Don’t you dare –”
“Sit.”
::::::::::
I was considering doing this from Sesshomaru's POV as well. Dunno though. Any thoughts? Thanks for reading.