InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Through Music will Bridges Forge ❯ Scherzando ( Chapter 2 )

Disclaimer: See Chapter 1.

A/N: Thanks for the support everyone. It made me feel a lot better. ^_^

Fanfiction.net:

Kousagi-chan - Yes, there's the chance that it resembles some other fics. However, this is the second time I've posted this (with some changes; the first time was a few months ago) but it was removed, so this is a repost. I'm hoping that the fic you read which was familiar was this fic, the original version. ^_~ In any case, if you do come across another fic that is really similar to this one please let me know! ^_^

Blackfire Hell Demon - Yay! A fellow pianist! ^_~ Yep, I also play the piano. I'm in grade 10 (I assume you're referring to Royal Conservatory?) Wow! ARCT1, you must a pretty darn good pianist! ^_~ Are you also from Canada? I was under the impression that, correct me if I'm wrong, Royal Conservatory was only in Canada. Glad you liked the story, and thanks for reviewing!

DumbAssPunk - Aww... thanks so much for the support! -sniffles- Your review made me feel tons better! I was actually considering discontinuing this fic (or at least not posting it on ff.net anymore), but what you said really helped. Anyway, it meant a lot and I'm glad someone believes me when I say that I didn't copy this fic from someone else. I'm flattered that you liked this fic. :D Once again, domo arigatou! ^^

Eisei Pika-ki - Ah, thanks for the encouragement! If you don't mind me asking, what are the other two fics called (if you remember)? I'd just like to take a quick read of them and make sure I don't copy something. I'd hate for something like this to happen again. ^^;; Glad you liked it and thanks for reviewing! ^_^

Divine Discontent - Thank you very muchly for your kind words. They made me feel much better about this fic and writing fanfics in general. This whole thing was getting rather depressing, so what you said was much appreciated! As for your advice about mediaminer, you'll now find this fic there as well! (Under the same penname.) Thanks again! ^_^

Butterfly Monkey Babe of Doom - I'm glad this is original to you. :D Thanks for reviewing and I'm thrilled that you liked it! ^_^

Sesshyangel - Heh, if you don't mind me saying so, I have a theory about how that could be. You see, I had five chapters posted of this fic as well, but then it was removed by ff.net. I still uncertain as to the reason. ^^; So, when I could post again, I combined the first two or three chapters and edited them slightly to form the first chapter. The original version of this was actually posted a few months ago. The next few chapters are also already written, but I'll probably be revising them. Anyway, correct me if I'm wrong, but I just came up with this idea because I might've received a review from you before for this fic. Not quite sure though... but your name seems familiar. ^_^ At least, I hope that's the case. Thanks for reviewing!

CelestialStar6 - Thanks so much for the encouragement and I'm glad you like the story. ^_^ It's reviews like these that make me want to continue!

SuzumiTenshi - Naraku? Yes, I suppose he is yummy, in his own dark, evil-mastermind kind of way. ^_~ Aye aye! The next chapter is now out! :D Thanks for the review.

Mediaminer.org:

Medatsu - Thanks so much for the wonderful review! I hope this continuation lives up to your expectations. ^_^

RED DAY - No worries there. This story will definitely stick to the Sess/Kag pairing. There are some wonderful Inu/Kag fics out there that I've read, but I just personally prefer Sess/Kag. Besides, how can you not love Fluffy to little bits? ;p Thanks for reviewing!

Hello, Hi, Goodbye - I'm glad you liked it! Thanks for reading! I hope you'll continue to read (and review, of course ^_~).

sakura yamakawa - It is now updated! Hope your pillow didn't get too ragged there. ^_~ Arigatou!

Through Music will Bridges Forge

Chapter 2 - Scherzando

Kaede-sensei smiled benevolently upon her students. They held their breaths, tension and anticipation visible in every line of their bodies. Her kind eyes wrinkled with amusement as the class hushed, waiting for her much anticipated announcement.

"Your instructors have told me good things about you all. The following groups are based on their comments and my own view of your abilities."

Silence greeted her.

"Now then…"

* * * * *

'Talk about déjà vu.' Kagome thought dazedly. Having had arrived early for practice, she hadn't been able to resist the temptation of running her fingers lightly over the smooth surface of the keys, the resulting mellow tones delighting her senses.

Once again Naraku-sensei had appeared in the doorway, silent as a shadow.

'How long has he been watching me?' she wondered. She never even would have noticed had it not been for the arrival of one of her two partners: Matsumoto Kouga. Upon his arrival, Naraku-sensei had shot her a look charged with intensity, and, with a nod to Kouga, swiftly exited the room. Her sensei's odd behaviour caused her to unconsciously grit her teeth in frustration.

"Konnichiwa Higurashi-san."

The friendly greeting caused her to automatically respond with a smile; the shadows dissipating from her thoughts.

"Konnichiwa!" she replied cheerily.

She would be performing a piano trio by Mendelssohn*. Being a pianist, she usually played solo, so this group performance was quite refreshingly different. With a reflective expression, she looked around the room and wondered what melodious sounds it would soon be filled with. A slight tingle raced up her spine at the thoughts. The expectation was tremendous.

She was distracted from her thoughts by the thud of a chair being dragged across the floor. Kouga grinned at her.

"Oh, don't mind me;" he said with a careless wave of his hand, "I'm just setting up. I'm the cellist, by the way."

"Aa." Kagome acknowledged.

"Kagome," he paused meaningfully, "you're awfully cute, you know. You should be my woman."

Startled Kagome lifted her eyes to glance warily at him, only to catch the playful wink he shot her way. Shaking her head at his antics, but unable to suppress a grin, she rolled her eyes teasingly. His warmth was contagious.

"Well, we're early, but would you like to start practicing a bit?" Kagome asked.

"Certainly, Kagome-chan!"

She choked. Kagome-chan? She'd just met this guy! Ah well, she had a feeling telling him off would be of no avail. In fact, it might just encourage him. This place certainly had its share of flirtatious men!

"In that case, let's start." Kagome wouldn't let him faze her.

A small smile tugged at her lips, but she quickly repressed it. She could play this game as well as he. Arching a brow, she coolly regarded him with a question in her eyes.

Seeing his nod, she lifted her hands and began.

* * * * *

A wide smile pasted itself on Kouga's rugged features. He nodded at her questioning glance, signalling his readiness.

As the soft tones of the piano filled the room, the smile grew bigger. 'She's good!' he thought admiringly. 'And beautiful,' a little voice at the back of his head piped up. 'And beautiful' he agreed without hesitation.

Kouga had had high hopes for this whole project, and it seemed like they were going to be met and then some. He cleared his mind as the trickling notes indicating the violin entrance reached his ears.

He concentrated, imagining the sound of the phantom violin merging with the delicate timbre of the pianoforte.

He waited.

And… without further ado…

Now.

The cello's deep tones joined Kagome's skilful playing.

* * * * *

A figure moved gracefully towards the practice room. His sharp ears caught the beginning strains of the Mendelssohn Trio. They had started without him? A twinge of annoyance flitted across his pristine features. No matter, it would give him a chance to gauge the abilities of his partners without their knowing. Such knowledge would be make him better prepared to face their foolishness.

He stood at the door, unnoticed by the two people inside, and was pleasantly surprised.

The girl, Kagome, was better than he'd thought. Though far from flawless, she gave the piece a most unique twist that was all her own. The potential for brilliance was there. Grudgingly he admitted that she'd greatly surpassed all the expectations he'd held for this musical venture; especially with it being the first session.

He felt a slight tug on his heartstrings at the violin entrance. He had a sudden urge to join her right then; he wanted the sounds of their two instruments to spiral, to unite, to complement the other in a splendid dance. Mentally berating himself for his foolishness, he quenched that desire, and continued to listen.

A hint of displeasure settled over him at the beginning tones of the cello. The cellist was quite competent but he, Sesshoumaru, was the superior musician. Ah well, that was to be expected. He had always been the better among his peers.

Assessment complete, the icy mask clicked into place as he strode forward. It was time to make his presence known.

* * * * *

Kagome almost jumped out of her seat when a cold voice cut across the air.

"Higurashi-san and Matsumoto-san, I presume?"

She turned and for an instant that seemed an eternity, their gazes locked. Golden, golden eyes… she was falling into them, those pools of molten amber.

Dimly, she heard Kouga's jovial response.

"Hai. You are Takeda-san?"

Not waiting for a response he continued.

"Well, come on! We've been waiting."

Without even bothering to look at Kouga, Sesshoumaru retrieved his violin from its case. Kagome couldn't take her eyes off him; even his most minute movements were graceful, mesmerizing.

What was she thinking?! Mentally kicking herself, Kagome blushed then turned away and stared resolutely at the piano.

"Begin." Sesshoumaru's crisp voice cut through the air.

Automatically, she began the first tinkling notes.

* * * * *

Sesshoumaru was inwardly amused. The girl seemed skittish around him.

'Interesting,' he deliberated, 'this could prove most entertaining.'

Upon hearing his cue, he smoothly lifted his bow and drew it over the strings with all the skill and confidence of a master.

'Let's see what they think of this…'

* * * * *

Kagome almost stumbled over the notes at his entry. The guy was amazing! Unbelievable that under such a cool façade, for she was now sure it was just that - a façade, lay such a powerful musician. His technique was impeccable and the emotional responses he induced were great. She felt her heart soar with joy.

Kouga's cushioning bass…

Sesshoumaru's lilting resonance…

Her own mellow tones…

They melded into an incredible blend.

She smiled softly.

Mendelssohn was a genius.

* * * * *

Sango couldn't help but clench her fists in frustration. A vein presented itself on her temple and she could feel the pending onslaught of a terrible headache. The fates were against her; she was sure of it! Of all the people she could have been placed with, that lecher, Miroku, had to be one of them. It was horrific; he would now have a legitimate excuse to seek her out. The thought made her tremble.

Ah well, perhaps the presence of the other students would incite him to actually exercise some restraint for once. She had been placed into a strings quartet with Miroku-san and two other students: Matsui Yura, also a violinist, and one of the two silver-haired men, Takeda Inuyasha.

She hoped they would act as a dampener to Watanabe's most lecherous tendencies. As soon as she had the thought, she scoffed. 'Yeah, right… As if anything could have such an effect on him.'

* * * * *

Inuyasha ran for his life.

Okay, so maybe that was a slight exaggeration, but still… he ran.

Panting, he sneaked a quick peek behind him.

'Was she gone yet?' he wondered frantically.

'There! Was that her?! Don't know, but I can't take the chance…' he lowered his head with a groan and continued to run.

Inuyasha had sprinted away from his fellow musicians as soon as the practice session had been over. He shuddered as he remembered the occurrences that had led up to his most undignified actions…

The session had started out well enough, that could not be denied. The four of them had assembled around the expected time and nothing was amiss. They had been grouped together to perform a very famous piece: Mozart's 'Eine kleine Nachtmusik'. They had practiced; he'd been pleasantly surprised with how good they sounded. Yes, indeed, all had been well, until everyone was about ready to leave…

"Takeda-san! You have the most lovely hair!"

Inuyasha jumped, startled at the comment. He quickly hid it behind his characteristic arrogance.

"What's it to you, wench?" he muttered gruffly, fully expecting the usual reaction of indignation and slight hurt.

Instead, he was shocked to feel a pair of hands running through his hair. 'What did that stupid girl think she was doing?!'

He hadn't been able to suppress the surprised 'yip' as she'd abruptly pulled out a single strand.

"Oh yes… lovely, lovely! You have such beautiful silver hair." She spun, gleefully, twirling the strand around her fingers.

Then, a maniacal smile graced her petite features…

"Let me have more…" she'd hissed.

That had been the last straw. Sure, Inuyasha was a brave guy; sure he could handle anything. But he couldn't handle crazy girls pulling out his hair!

He ran…

…and was still running.

…Until he crashed into something, or rather, someone.

He felt her begin to fall and instinctively reached out to steady her. Looking up, he almost panicked again when he noticed the dark hair. But no… it wasn't Yura.

'Thank goodness.'

* * * * *

Kagome walked along the shady path, eyes clouded, lost in thought. It was evening, but her mind kept travelling back to a certain silver-haired someone, picturing the elegance and skill behind his movements. It was, for lack of a better word, entrancing.

She winced. For heaven's sake, she sounded like some silly schoolgirl!

She was startled out of his reverie by something very solid crashing into her.

"Oomph!" Getting the wind knocked out of her lungs, she toppled backwards only to feel someone grab her arm and prevent her imminent fall.

Cerulean eyes met golden ones. A light shock shot between them, causing them to jump and step away from each other.

"Watch where you're going!"

Kagome's anger flared at the provocation. 'He runs into me, and has the nerve to tell me to watch where I'm going?' she fumed, 'the jerk!'

Her eyes hardened, ready to give him a tongue-lashing.

"Gomen…"

Her jaw dropped; the tirade died in her throat. 'Did he just apologize?' she thought faintly. 'Maybe I misjudged him…'

"…wench."

She face-faulted. 'Maybe not.'

A moment passed in silence, their eyes never leaving each other.

"Kagome," she said finally, "not wench… Kagome."

He opened his mouth for a rude retort when a dark-haired girl seemingly materialized behind Inuyasha.

"Oi, Inuyasha, what did you go and run away for? I only wanted a lock of your gorgeous hair…" she pouted.

The change was instantaneous and incredible.

Inuyasha turned beet red and began stuttering his excuses. Kagome was further surprised when he hooked his arm around her shoulders and pulled her close.

"Yura! W-well, you can't have my hair. This… is my… ah… girlfriend! She likes my hair the way it is and… so you can't have it!"

Kagome twitched. She was a volcano, just waiting to erupt. With a strength she didn't know she even possessed she shoved Inuyasha away from her.

"What the hell are you talking about, baka?! You are not my boyfriend! I would never take someone as… as arrogant as you!"

"Oh goodie! Then come here… Inuyasha." Yura practically purred her delight.

Inuyasha shot her a repulsed look, then turned to Kagome, eyes pleading.

Unable to resist that look, Kagome sighed, cursing her own soft-heartedness. She was planning to step in and help the egotistical puppy, when a thought struck her.

A sickeningly-sweet smile pasted itself upon her face. Inuyasha took an involuntary step back at the look.

"Oh, Yura-san is it?"

Upon seeing the other girl's nod, Kagome continued. "Well, there is a reason for Inuyasha-san's silky, soft hair."

Furtively, she whispered, "It's caused by his... natural... oils... if you know what I mean."

Upon seeing the bewildered expression of the other girl, Kagome sighed. She would have to put this most indelicately.

"Washed. It's never been washed."

Distantly, she heard Inuyasha beginning to sputter angrily. She shot him a look that simply screamed, 'do you want me to help you or not?' Inuyasha subsided with a scowl.

Yura'seyes widened, comical in its horror. "Nani?! Never?! Not ever…" here her voice dropped a notch, "…conditioned?"

Just as the words left her lips, she paused. "Just how would you know this?" she queried, suddenly suspicious.

Kagome fought the urge to laugh. "Inuyasha and I go way back."

"Really...?" Yura trailed off.

Kagome smiled; she smiled her best I'm-telling-the-truth-don't-you-believe-me? smile.

And it worked.

Yura shot Inuyasha a disgusted look.

"Well then!" she tossed her head. "I shall give up my quest for your hair. It has most certainly been tainted by your..."

She shuddered, apparently too overcome by revulsion to continue.

Kagome gave her an encouraging smile as she stalked off.

She turned to face a now glowering Inuyasha. 'Uh-oh' she thought, preparing herself to face the onslaught….

* * * * *

Kouga whistled cheerily to himself. Life was good. He had been placed with two contemporaries who surpassed all his expectations; two musicians of such rare calibre, that music flowed through their fingers as a living entity with a mind of its own.

He knew he was competent; he had the confidence of a prince. But his two feet were firmly planted in reality. He knew what he knew, and he was fully aware that he was perhaps the weakest member of the trio. That fact didn't disturb him in the least. How could it when he would be in the presence of such a lovely lady for weeks on end? It was a privilege, surely. Add that to the fact that he had just left her most delightful company... He remembered her smiles and soothing voice with fondness.

As it was, his distracted mind didn't register the shrill horn piercing the quiet serenity of the air.

* * * * *

Night had fallen over the pristine mansion. A few vagabond stars twinkled above, adding their light to that of the gently glowing moon. All was quiet. The bustle of the day had died down to a monotonous hum, a soft buzzing that was easily put out of one's mind.

The residents of the manor were oblivious to the outside world, lost within the comforting embrace of their dreams. All except one. A glass sliding door that led from the music hall to the private garden was silently opened. A straight-backed figure stepped onto the patio, silver locks gleaming with an ethereal light.

Sheets of paper lay within, upon the polished marble floors, tossed about in cluttered disarray, forgotten. Inside them they held the secrets to some of the most exquisite hymns to ever grace the world of man. All could be unlocked by the hands of a master.

But presently, they were cast aside carelessly. The moonlit clearing held more fascination for the one with eyes of molten amber. The whisperings of a stray wind stilled, as though holding its breath for appraisal. Time stood still, not a blade of grass wavered beneath his intense scrutiny. As if carved from white alabaster, the figure stood immortal, god-like.

A barely noticeable softening of the eyes was the only indication of the direction of his thoughts.

The magic of Mendelssohn; he wanted to capture it again.

Perhaps for the first time in his relatively short life, Sesshoumaru thought of a peer with grudging respect and unknown fondness.

* * * * *

Kagome wearily made her way back to her small apartment. Earlier that day, she had managed to escape Inuyasha with a little 'coaxing' from Kouga. He really was a good guy, and she appreciated the help he had given her.

Kouga had insisted on dining with her that evening and she hadn't had the heart to refuse him. As it was, she had been surprised to find she had enjoyed his company immensely; he was really quite witty and insightful beneath his rather interesting inclinations. They had participated in a light banter that left the two of them in high spirits.

It had been late when they'd finally parted ways. She'd declined his offers to walk her home, insisting that she was perfectly capable.

Now she was dead tired and more than ready to curl up and go to sleep. As she slipped the key into the door, however, she couldn't shake the feeling that something was not quite right.

* * * * *

Kagome shivered despite the abundance of sunlight filtering into the room. A tense silence hovered between them, an oppressive feeling that choked the words from her throat. To her right, Sesshoumaru seemed as calm and collected as ever, gracefully removing his violin from its case, then seating himself with an air of cool indifference.

She gritted her teeth. Kagome was never one for prolonged quiet; she much preferred the friendly repartee that she had enjoyed in Kouga's company. Unfortunately for her, Kouga was not yet present, and Sesshoumaru had quelled any attempts from her to start a conversation. For all his musical talent, the guy had the conversational skills of a rock.

Glancing at her watch, a knot of worry formed in the stomach. Kouga was now almost half an hour late. Granted, it wasn't too unusual, but for all his brashness, Kouga was one of punctuality. Staring listlessly at the rows of keys before her, her mind wandered…

"It would be practical to begin." A crisp voice cut into her thoughts.

"Oh, but… Kouga…"

"Seeing as how he doesn't have the decency to be punctual, I should not waste my time waiting."

Kagome barely kept an exasperated sigh in check. The guy was so… pompous!

"You were late on the first day too, you know," she ventured crossly.

Sesshoumaru merely favoured her with a frigid glare and an expressionless visage.

After a brief pause, Kagome could feel her will weakening.

"Oh very well," she groused, "let's begin."

Sesshoumaru's response surprised her. "You seemed quite willing to go on in my absence," he stated blandly.

Kagome gave him a sharp look, but detected no emotion whatsoever. He almost seemed… but no, that was impossible. Sesshoumaru was not one who was moved by emotion.

Seating herself more comfortably in front of the piano, she lifted her hands and began the opening measures.

Moments later, Sesshoumaru joined her, and worldly troubles were all but forgotten.

* * * * *

A figure, cloaked in shadows, stood in the doorway; a snarl twisted his features into one of pure malevolence, while his eyes radiated heated emotion.

'Such sweet melodies you sing, my little songbird*... I will have my way with you.'

* * * * *

Kouga opened his eyes to an unfamiliar room. White ceiling… white walls… everything was white! He blinked, confused. How did he get to such a place?

A sanguine face abruptly invaded his field of vision.

"How are you feeling today? I must say you were out for quite a while!" she chirped, "Oh, but you are a foolish one aren't you? Getting yourself into situations like that. Well no matter…"

Kouga growled inaudibly. Her incessant chatter was giving him a pounding headache. Come to think of it, why did he feel sore all over? He tried to push himself into a sitting position and all but hissed at the sudden burst of pain in his right arm.

"Honestly," here she looked at the clipboard beside his bed, "… Kouga-san! Do you want to make your injuries worse than they already are? Sit still and don't move around so much."

Kouga glared at her suspiciously, then subsided and did as he was told.

"What happened?" he asked gruffly.

"Oh, my poor dear! Don't you remember? You had a little incident with a car! I must say, you ought to be quite a bit more careful in the future," she scolded like a mother hen, "where on earth were you looking? Luckily for you, you got off relatively easy… just a little injury to your arm. I wouldn't move it though…"

Kouga looked at her blankly. He didn't remember any of this!

"Where am I now?"

"The hospital," she said kindly. "Now, the doctor will come and check up on you…"

"I don't need that! I've gotta get outta here!" he cut in.

The motherly personage was gone in a flash.

"Now, listen here young man! You will stay here and do as you are told, and you will leave when given permission! Until that point, you will sit and you will rest!" she declared, daring him to contradict her.

Kouga didn't. She reminded him frighteningly of his late grandmother. She, too, had held great authority when the need arose.

When she left, he heard something along the lines of "young people these days!"

Kouga sighed and resigned himself to his fate. He hoped this little mishap wouldn't delay his classes too much. His thoughts turned to Kagome and a lopsided grin made itself known on his face.

* * * * *

Sesshoumaru's mind reeled as he reached the soft finale. That had been one of the most amazing experiences he'd ever had. One look at Kagome's face showed that she felt the same way.

Noting her distraction, he took the opportunity to study her, this young woman who was unlike any he had ever met before. Ebony tresses, cerulean eyes, and pale alabaster skin; she was one of the kind of looks that wouldn't catch the attention. It was only upon closer inspection that her clandestine radiance could be uncovered.

Silently he cursed himself, 'What was he thinking?! This girl... Kagome, she couldn't be any different from the others. And yet... he wasn't convinced.'

"Arigatou…" her subdued voice caught his attention.

Smiling softly, she turned to face him. "That was incredible." Sincerity permeated her mellow tones.

Sesshoumaru felt the residual glow, brought on by their playing, flare brighter, and he had to fight to retain his emotionless mask. Instead, he chose to give her a brisk nod, not quite trusting himself to speak.

They sat a while in contented silence, each privately contemplating the thoughts of the other.

* * * * *

Kagome felt her eyes begin to adjust to the growing darkness. With a gasp she realized they'd practiced far longer than they'd intended. Now, it was already late in the evening.

That was the true sign of their compatibility for each other. The passing of time had seemed irrelevant as each had been lost in the soulful tones of the other. True, there had been an empty echo where Kouga's cello should have sounded, but what they had managed to accomplish was still quite remarkable.

Standing, Kagome stretched her cramped muscles from the sitting position they had been in for the past few hours.

Sesshoumaru's eyes followed her, questioning.

"Higurashi-san?" his voice was oddly childlike and vulnerable.

She grinned. "I think, Sesshoumaru," she emphasized the name, "that after this, you may call me Kagome."

Sesshoumaru nodded in response.

"Kagome, then. Where are you going?"

"Home. Have you realized how late it is? We've been practicing for quite a while!" she looked thoughtful, "though I wonder why Kouga-kun never showed up."

"I had not realized you and he were on such close terms."

"Hm?" Kagome was startled out of her reverie by his voice, which had abruptly reverted back to that of cool professionalism, "Well, I suppose we are friends… Just like we are Sesshoumaru!" She winced. She sounded overly chipper even to her own ears.

Sesshoumaru acknowledged that with a brisk glance in her direction.

"Very well. I shall see you tomorrow." With that, he picked up his instrument and strode out of the room, Kagome's wondering gaze following him every step of the way.

* * * * *

Naraku waited until Sesshoumaru's footsteps had receded to the point where none could be heard. Stealthily, he walked up to the girl who was lingering in the music room, a slight smirk upon his lips.

"Kagome…"

The object of his attentions jumped, startled. A shadow crossed her face, but she quickly bowed, her hair forming a semi-curtain around her face.

"Naraku-sensei." Her voice came out soft, uncertain, but she bravely pushed on, "Please, Naraku-sensei, I do not feel we are on such familiar terms."

He smiled slightly. Ah, he just loved it when they were polite… and so innocent. It made things all the more interesting…

Naraku stepped closer to the girl, causing her to shift, uncomfortable with their proximity. He ignored her actions.

"Oh but you see… Kagome," he emphasized her name, hiding a smirk when she winced, "we can easily get to know each other better."

He gestured around the room.

"After all… are we not alone right now?" Naraku subtly altered his voice, making it huskier, more intimate, "Come now, shed your role of the 'innocent schoolgirl'. You and I both know what fire… and vivacity lie within you." He turned to face her again, reaching out and tilting her face so that she was looking into his eyes, "Show me that passion."

"N-Naraku-sensei…" she stammered, "This is highly unusual…"

"Show me how you've progressed," his voice abruptly altered to normal levels, and gestured towards the piano, "now."

"W-What?"

He smirked at her confusion. "What did you think I was speaking of?" he feigned surprise, "Oh my, don't we have an unclean little mind!"

He paused for effect, "I merely wished to see how you were progressing in your studies."

The relief she felt was plainly written upon her delicate features. "Hai."

With that she sat down and began to play, quickly becoming engrossed in her music. 'Too predictable,' Naraku sneered, 'never let down your guard in the presence of one such as I.' He stepped behind her so that they were almost touching and lowered his head to whisper seductively into her ear.

"I could make you great, Kagome. I have connections to some very influential people. You have the talent, the tenacity," he murmured, "with me by your side, they will bow before you."

He rested his hands lightly upon her now tense shoulders, as silence descended upon the room.

"Think on it Kagome… fame and fortune. Such things are hard to come by for amateur musicians such as yourself… do not be a fool."

He hid a sneer, it wouldn't be long now...

Kagome would become, in every sense of the word, his.

* * * * *

Kagome looked at her sensei fearfully. What was he talking about? What was he doing? Panicking, she desperately thought of ways to get out of this excruciating situation.

The beeping of her cell phone startled them both.

"Gomen, Naraku-sensei."

She quickly walked over to her purse, and pulled out her cell phone, all the while breathing a mental sigh of relief. 'That had been too close.'

"Yes?"

Out of the corner of her eye, she watched as Naraku-sensei caught her eye and left a card on the piano before leaving the room.

She remembered to breathe again. Gods, that guy just gave her the heebie-jeebies!

"Aa. Kagome-chan!" Kouga's voice rang out on the other end, "Boy, you sure sound glad to hear from me! I knew you and I were meant to be!"

"…" Kagome paused, uncertain how to respond, "Where were you Kouga?! We had a practice! And don't call me Kagome-chan." She added as an afterthought.

"That's what I was gonna tell you, woman. Geez. You see… I sorta had a little accident. I'm at the hospital now."

"Kami?! Kouga, are you alright??" Kagome couldn't conceal her worry.

"Yeah, yeah," he sounded sheepish, "After I had dinner with you last night, I kinda wasn't watching where I was going, got hit by a car, and ended up here."

"Kouga…"

"No worries!" she could almost imagine his trademark exuberance and stifled a smile, "I'm perfectly fine! Broke my arm though."

"NANI?!" Kagome yelled, "But…"

"Oi, Kags," Kouga muttered, "Don't yell like that! Yeah, so I won't be able to practice with you guys for a while. It's only a little injury though… so I should be good to go soon. Besides, do you really think I'm gonna let my woman down?"

"Oh.. okay. I'm still not your woman, Kouga." Kagome rubbed her temples with her free hand tiredly. "Listen, it's getting a little late, and I have to get home, alright?"

"No probs! Tell the icicle what happened to me alright? Can't imagine he'd be too happy about it."

Kagome chuckled, "No, he wouldn't be… I'll tell him. And I'll come visit you after classes tomorrow alright?"

"Great! You're really starting to act like my woman now!" With that he hung up.

Kagome shook her head, slightly dismayed.

'Men.'

* * * * *

Sango was having a horrible day. Miroku had been… well… Miroku. She sighed. It was late and she was exhausted. Their practices had gone rather well, with relatively few incidents, considering all the possibilities. Yura had seemingly given up her pursuit of Inuyasha's hair… a pity really. She had found those two to be a wonderful source of entertainment.

She was struck by a pang of guilt. She really shouldn't take joy from other's misfortunes… though… She couldn't help but chuckle softly in remembrance. And, although she hated to admit it, even to herself, Miroku had started to grow on her. The main reason being that he was a formidable musician. As for his courting abilities, they could definitely use some improvement.

Looking up she saw a familiar young woman walking up ahead.

"Kagome..!" Sango hurried to catch up.

* * * * *

"Sango!" Kagome turned at the sound of her name. She grinned at the other girl as she fell into step beside her. "How have you been? I haven't seen you around school lately!"

"Ah, yes. It's the group performances. I suppose we both have been rather busy ne?"

"Un." Kagome agreed. "How is your group?"

"Ah… well, Miroku, Yura, Inuyasha… they're quite…"

"Quite what?" a voice asked from behind them.

Both girls paused and turned to face the newcomers.

"Miroku, don't I see enough of you already?" Sango grated out.

"Sango-chan!" Miroku placed a hand over his heart, feigning dismay, "Why, I'm hurt. You almost sound as though you do not wish to see me!"

Kagome smiled slightly at their antics, before sweatdropping nervously as her eyes fell upon Inuyasha.

"Um… hi," she said awkwardly, "look, about the other day…"

"Feh! It's not big deal. At least you got Yura off my back."

"…" Kagome looked at him wide-eyed, expecting him to still be angry at her.

Inuyasha fidgeted beneath her gaze, before relenting and saying almost gently, "Look, Kagome, it's no big deal, alright?"

'He used my name… Kagome… not wench, or girl… Kagome.'

She gave him a dazzling smile, 'he's not so bad beneath that rough exterior.'

They were distracted by the sound of Sango's stomach growling. Turning to look at her, Kagome was amused at the faint blush that coloured her friend's cheeks.

"Ah, I haven't had much to eat all day." Sango muttered.

Miroku was immediately concerned, "Then you must eat!"

Kagome spoke up, "Actually I'm rather hungry too."

Miroku grinned winningly, "Then why don't we all go grab something?" He turned, "Alright, Inuyasha?"

"Do what you want."

* * * * *

Miroku was pleased. Not only had he gotten the opportunity to spend more time with Sango, she hadn't slapped him the entire time they were eating! Now, the four of them were walking amiably back to their respective homes.

Miroku fell innocently into step beside Sango, ignoring the look she gave him. He looked up at the stars, while his hand began to inch behind her.

SLAP!

"Hentai!" came the irate scream.

"You never learn do you?" Inuyasha stopped in front of him.

"I-It was… worth it…." Miroku smiled charmingly, or at least he tried to, at the chibi-Inuyashas dancing around his head.

* * * * *

Inuyasha couldn't help but wince in sympathy with Miroku, though it was clear that he deserved all the pain he got. He'd actually had quite a good time with Kagome and the others… perhaps he should spend more time with them?

"Well, I'll have to split from you guys here now." Kagome's voice snapped him out of his private musings.

"What?!" He demanded before he could stop himself.

Kagome looked slightly affronted, "Well, I don't live on campus… and…"

"Stupid girl! Do you want to get assaulted walking alone this late?!"

Kagome looked at him, puzzled, while Miroku and Sango appeared to be amused.

'Well to hell with them! I don't care what they think!'

With that, he picked up Kagome's arm and started dragging her away, ignoring the others' chuckles, with all the dignity he could muster.

* * * * *

'What does he think he's doing now?!' Kagome's mind yammered.

Finally, her yells seemed to be getting through to him, for he dropped his arm and fixed her with a glare.

"What now?"

"What now? What are you doing?!"

"I'm taking you home, what does it look like?!"

"I can go home by myself, thank you very much!" Kagome retorted heatedly.

"Ungrateful wench!"

"What?! Now let's just get some things straight…"

Inuyasha cut her off. "Look, just let me walk you home, alright?" Inuyasha's directness startled her.

Hesitantly, she nodded.

The two of them started off at a gentler pace.

* * * * *

"Thank you."

They stopped in front of her modest apartment.

"Feh."

Kagome nodded, before opening the door.

"Good night then, see you tomorrow.." she smiled softly as the lock clicked.

Inuyasha stood there, dazed. 'That smile…' Shaking himself out of his stupor, he stalked down the stairs, determined to get her out of his head.

'What on earth had possessed him to walk her home like that? What did he care if she got hurt?' And yet, he realized with a start, her getting hurt was something he never wanted to see happen.

"What the hell?" he growled aloud.

Whatever it was, he'd be back to normal by the next day.

He hoped.

* * * * *

Sesshoumaru stopped, allowing the room to settle into silence. He had been trying to practice but his heart wasn't in it. A certain dark-haired young woman was plaguing his thoughts. Images of her seated in front of the piano, engrossed in her playing kept materializing within his mind's eye. It was perplexing to him. No one person had ever caused enough of an impression to haunt his thoughts. For he, Sesshoumaru, needed no one.

"Sesshoumaru?" a quiet feminine voice queried from the doorway.

He sighed inaudibly, knowing that it was pointless now to try to continue with his rehearsal. He turned to face the intruder, a mask of detached politeness upon his face.

She smiled somewhat sadly, "What? No words of welcome?"

He remained silent, recognizing that the query required no response. They were both painfully aware of the state of their relationship.

"I just thought I'd let you know that we're back."

Sesshoumaru nodded brusquely, "Inuyasha has yet to return."

"I know."

All that needed to be said had been. Sesshoumaru turned away from her. Distantly, he heard her soft footsteps padding away. His piercing gaze once again fell upon his violin.

'Kagome... what is it about you?'

A/N:

* In case anyone wanted to know, the Mendelssohn Trio is from Op. 49.

*my little songbird - this was quoted from Henrik Ibsen's A Doll's House... if anyone's ever read it. It is what Torvald frequently calls his wife, Nora. That along with 'little squirrel/skylark etc.' :D

Okay, I've updated the second chapter. ^_^ The author's note was removed because I felt that such an unpleasant message needn't be present for as long as this fic is. Might as well move on... On a happier note: I passed my road test! Yours truly is now a certified driver! Beware, Siluetta will now be on the road! :D :D :D

A little bit of Inu/Kag in the last section there. No worries to any Sess/Kag fans, this is still what the pairing is! ^_^ I just think that their relationship will take a bit longer to develop, seeing as how err.. reserved Sesshoumaru is when it comes to feelings. But then again, I wouldn't have him any other way! ^_^

I thought I'd just clear up one thing regarding this fic. This is not the first time it's been posted on ff.net. It was actually originally posted a few months ago. However, since I was writing and posting simultaneously at that time, the chapters shorter, but more numerous. I'd actually gotten to chapter 5 before it was taken off (for whatever reason). However, if you do, in fact, see another fic that is extremely similar to this one, please let me know. Arigatou!

One more thing: All this, except the last chunk (which was originally chapter 6) had been written beforehand. It took me at least one week to finish a piece approximately one-third the length of these two (This is approximately 6500 words). I'd like your opinion on something: what do you think I should do? Post something shorter (around 1500-2000 words, the length varies somewhat depending on where I feel is a good place to end it), but more frequently? Or should I try to maintain this length, even though the updates will come quite a bit slower?

As usual, I love reviews! So review… please? And feel free to criticize, as long as it's constructive. ^_^

Email update notifications are still sent out. If you would like to receive them, just leave your email and mention that in your review.

So… yeah. Think this is worth continuing?

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