Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha, Sesshoumaru and Kagome would be together if I did.
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The regal lord of the western realm impassively observed the group below his perch in a tree, one hakama clad leg lazily hanging off of his branch as he reclined against the tree's trunk. Of course, if it weren’t for the thick cover of leaves hiding his person, he would never be so relaxed. One gracefully pointed ear twitched as laughter floated up to his perch once more.
Below him were his ward and retainer, along with the misfit group under his half brother’s leadership. If he was hearing right, and he knew it was, the miko was entertaining his ward and her kit as the midday meal of ramen was cooking over the fire. His golden eyes opened, and he tilited his head back ever so slightly, taking in the warm sunshine floating down to him. The last few days had been miserable for the group, the rainy season was in full force. Today though, today was a gloriously clear, sunny day, so they were stopping to enjoy it.
His ward’s laughter once again floated up to his ears, soon joined by the fox kit’s. He heard the miko protest for but a moment before joining in on the laughter herself. Deep, deep down inside, he almost envied their gaiety on such a fine day; however he knew his duties and they were far more important then being able to laugh freely. So many were depending on him after all.
His mind wandered back to the miko, Kagome. He had been so curious at her appearance at his brother’s side, it seemed such a long distance into the past. His opinion of her had changed drastically, she had truly earned his respect through her actions; everything from defying him to being so kind towards his ward. He could never show her that though, he had already considered all of the possibilities that could come of her knowing of his respect for her person. None of them ended positively as far as the group was concerned, too much tension already existed between Kagome and his half brother.
Sesshoumaru’s bright eyes closed once more as voices and loud, raucous laughter made it’s way to his ears. He tried not to let go and savor the sound of Kagome’s laughter rising above the rest, he exerted every ounce of self control in his possession. It was so free, so clear, something he himself could never express. He wanted to bask in it, and just once allowed himself to indulge while there was no one to observe.
The next thing he heard was the cooking utensils being packed up, and then a warm voice calling his name.
“Sesshoumaru-sama, we are about to depart,” Kagome softly called up the tree.
Composing himself, the regal lord dropped down the tree, nothing hinting at his previous thoughts. It was time to move on.
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I hope you enjoyed and I didn't make anything too complicated or anything. The next one shot should be out soon! There will be five in total, one for each sense. I know this is labeled Sound instead of Hearing, but it flows more.
Thanks for reading, comments and constructive criticism much appreciated!
QuothTheDragon