Die With A Smile by LadyDaniTar

Part Three

One week later, Sesshoumaru returned to the slayer village, accompanied by Jaken and Ah-Un. The beast carried new clothing, food, and other supplies he deemed necessary for a human family with a newborn pup.

Sango and Miroku’s daughters were the first to greet them, the twins eagerly attempting to climb Ah-Un as he walked. Jaken, of course, berated them incessantly.

The commotion drew the attention of many villagers, and soon Kohaku stepped out of his home, bowing respectfully to the demon lord.

“Lord Sesshoumaru, we didn’t know you would return so soon. Rin and Hikaru are still sleeping.”

The soft breathing of his ward and her pup reached Sesshoumaru’s keen ears. He nodded to the boy. “Jaken, help Kohaku unload the gifts.”

Pausing from his scolding of the twins, Jaken eagerly replied, “Yes, Lord Sesshoumaru!”

As the two set to work, Sesshoumaru surveyed the village. The scents of his brother and the priestess still lingered, indicating they had not yet departed.

Following their scent, he arrived at the home of the slayer and monk. Approaching quietly, he overheard the hushed conversation between Inuyasha and Miroku.

“…she isn’t getting better, Miroku.”

“I know. I’m afraid Lady Kagome might have pushed herself too far this time.”

A low growl rumbled through the air. “Bullshit! This can’t be it. Kagome doesn’t deserve to—”

“Die? No, she does not. But if that were to happen—” another growl momentarily silenced the monk. “If it happens, she would be glad she was able to sacrifice herself for Rin’s son.”

“Fuck that!” Inuyasha’s voice rose, the sound of him shuffling and standing reaching Sesshoumaru’s ears. “She should have listened to me and let that asshole revive the brat. But she is too stubborn and—”

Inuyasha fell silent as he stepped outside and spotted his brother. Clenching his teeth, he stomped over. “You eavesdropping now?!”

Miroku quickly followed him out. “Lord Sesshoumaru, welcome back. Are you here to visit Rin?”

“Cut the pleasantries, Miroku!” Inuyasha snapped. This was not an ideal situation, but for the first time in his life, he might need the bastard’s help.

“I need to talk to you.” Without waiting for a response, Inuyasha headed towards the nearby forest, assuming Sesshoumaru would follow.