Christmas Kismet by Kitana Tsukino-hime

Christmas Kismet

Disclaimer: Inuyasha belongs to Takahashi-san. I as the Authoress of CK make no claim to it.

Dokuga Holiday Exchange, 2015

Title: Christmas Kismet

Author: Kitana Tsukino-hime

Recipient: Sakura Dragon 10

Prompt: “No man needs a vacation so much as the man who has just had one.” -Elbert Hubbard

It had been six years since her journeys into the past had come to a sudden and jarring end. Naraku was defeated. The Shikon no Tama wished from existence. And peace restored to Sengoku Jidai. Almost before the first sigh of real relief could pass her lips, Kagome had been thrust back five hundred years into the future once more. Her duty to the Jewel complete, the magick of the Bone Eater's Well went silent.

Barring any hope for the futuristic Miko to return to the time that had become more a home to her, than modern-day Tokyo could ever hope to be. Though lonely and a little sad on occasion, Kagome had toughed out her first couple years back. Before realizing that Tokyo, indeed Japan itself held far too many memories for her.

Hence, Kagome was well pleased that her high marks translated to a full academic scholarship to several universities. Including some in America. The one the young Miko chose to accept being from the University of New Orleans in Louisiana. There was something in the aged beauty of the city that drew her. A magick and charm all it's own.

She had chosen to major in Archaeology with a minor in Women's Studies. The once Shikon no Miko's last tie to the past that had been such a part of her life for so long. And now at long last, Kagome was a senior in her final year of college. What she would do after graduation the young woman was not yet sure. But in the intervening years Kagome had learned to trust her instincts. Understanding her heart would lead her where she was meant to be.

Though little knowing, Fate was not yet done with her. As she would soon find out in the most unexpected ways. And from the most unlikely person or demon imaginable. Kagome smiled to herself as she let her cobalt gaze flow over the Christmas bedecked glowing campus. Having grown to love the American traditions in her time in the States.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the city Sesshomaru drove through the streets. The purr of his Aston Martin Vanquish Volante's engine the only sound besides the Daiyoukai's own occasional low growl or grumble.

“Why in Kami's name had he agreed to this..?” Sesshomaru asked himself.

To host the Western Inu Clans traditional Yule Ball. Especially given he had just returned from a vacation in Venice.

He was reminded of the saying, “No man needs a vacation so much as the man who has just had one.”

“How apt.” Sesshomaru quipped to himself with a rueful shake of his head.

After all these years he still wasn't much of a people person. Except among his own family. But even he could not have foreseen just how much one selfless wish made by a gifted though albeit mortal woman would change the course of history. Both, what came long before as well as what existed now. Though most humans were still blissfully unaware. The woman in question, having unknowingly taken a piece of his daughter's as well as his own heart with her when she vanished back into the future that was her then present.

“Higurashi Kagome...”

Just thinking her name brought a bittersweet smile to Sesshomaru's face. The intervening years had softened the Daiyoukai's heart some. Now, the ruthlessness he had been known for. That had gained him the title of the “Aristocratic Assassin” only showed itself in the boardroom. And still served to keep what was now his company thriving.

As though the past were taunting him, a small wind picked up. Flowing through the vehicle's open windows bringing the familiar scent of orchids, touched with the cool mint that was once her power to Sesshomaru's keen nose. He turned his head for a split second. And there she was, gliding through the UNO main campus. Like the mist of a half-forgotten dream. She could be Sesshomaru's salvation or his eternal damnation. But Kagome would be neither unless, she learned what lived in his soul for only her.

Knowing he wouldn't be long, Sesshomaru chose a metered parking space. Slipping change into the machine as he cut the Volante's engine and stepped from the car. For a moment he just stood watching Kagome's retreating figure. At last, Sesshomaru spoke. One word. Her title, still infused with the respect she had earned from the Daiyoukai all those years ago.

“Miko.”

His baritone voice seeming to stroke over the syllables. Sesshomaru watched the woman stop in her tracks. Saw a small shudder run the length of Kagome's spine. Not one born of fear. Never that. But of recognition. Of what she had been. And still was, by her ancient blood. Yet few would know of her sacrifices. Lest they themselves had been witness to them. Kagome turned, looking at him over her right shoulder. So antique gold clashed with cobalt blue.

Then she was sprinting in his direction. Closing the distance between Sesshomaru and herself. Until only a foot of space separated them. Part of him wished Kagome would close those last scant inches that stood between them. But Sesshomaru knew she wouldn't. Not yet. But soon. Or so the Daiyoukai hoped. If only in silence to himself.

Then Kagome's voice broke the silence.

“Sesshomaru, what are you doing in Louisiana of all places?” She asked.

He was pleased she still felt secure enough to continue omitting his title as she'd done in the past.

“How is it your even here?” Kagome continued.

Knowing he didn't dare reveal all yet, refusing to outright lie... Sesshomaru settled on a middle ground.

“Kagome, there is a great deal to discuss.” Sesshomaru began.

“Your wish wrought much change, little Miko.” the Daiyoukai couldn't resist adding.

Watching Kagome's head tilt slightly to the side. And the adorable confused frown on her face.

“You feeling okay, Sesshomaru?” Kagome asked after a bit.

It certainly looked like the Sesshomaru she remembered. But it sure didn't sound fully like the Daiyoukai of the past.

“Time changes even Youkai, Miko.” Sesshomaru quipped.

“Even if change for us comes much slower than for mortals.” He deadpanned.

For a moment Kagome could only blink. Then a slow smirk spread across her face.

“Well, I'll be.” “You do have a sense of humor after all...” Kagome mused.

Sesshomaru could only shake his head as though to say, but of course.

“That still doesn't explain why your here though.” She continued.

“As I said before there is much to discuss.” “Things you must see for yourself.” Sesshomaru reiterated.

And then the Daiyoukai paused. As though considering something before he continued.

“And I need your assistance.” Sesshomaru finished.

One moment Kagome's azure gaze was playful. In the next instant seriousness had overtaken her expression.

“Anything, you should remember that Sesshomaru.” Kagome replied.

And it was the Miko's willingness to help any way she could that the Daiyoukai was counting on. It would hopefully give Sesshomaru the time he needed to win Kagome's heart.

Kagome paused, taking a look at her watch before turning back to Sesshomaru.

“Listen, I have one more class to finish.” “Then I have to head for the library.” “I can meet you at four-thirty.” She finished.

Beginning to turn on her heel. Only now catching sight of Sesshomaru's Vanquish Volante.

With a smile and shake of her head she said, “Why am I not surprised.”

With a smirk of his own Sesshomaru said, “I'll pick you up.”

Knowing better than to argue the point Kagome jogged to the parking lot for her car. So she could head to her last class. Lighter in heart than she could remember being in some time. Watching her, Sesshomaru got back in his car. Starting the engine before he pulled away. Headed back to work pleased with his slow beginning progress.

Though she was intrigued by what Sesshomaru had told her Kagome forced herself to focus through her last class of the day. Curious what he could possibly need from her. She headed to the campus library to check out books to help with finals. After gathering the books she needed, Kagome checked out. Then headed for the library parking lot and her car.

Climbing behind the wheel of her little black Suzuki Firenza Kagome started the engine. Headed for Pontchartrain Hall, North. And her cozy one bedroom one bath. To drop off her books and change. Working quickly, Kagome was just stepping outside when Sesshomaru pulled up outside her apartment. Undoubtedly having traced her scent to find her.

The Miko had kept things simple. Pulling the upper layer of her hair into a ponytail. Allowing the rest to flow freely down her back. Her eyes dusted with silver shadow and lined with black kohl eyeliner. Kagome's lips slick with a sheer pink gloss. Her dress the same shade as her eyes flared out into a fluttery skirt that stopped a little ways below her knees. Her dainty feet encased in wedge heel black calf-high leather boots.

Seeing Kagome as she approached the Vanquish, Sesshomaru's breath caught for just a moment. As a girl the Miko had always been beautiful. Even the Daiyoukai could admit that. But maturity had made the woman downright stunning. Sesshomaru himself, having forgone the steel gray pinstriped suit and tie with black loafers. For a black silk button up, matching slacks, and a modernized version of his once favored boots. His long silver hair tied back in a low tail. His golden eyes hidden behind dark glasses as the sun began to sink from the sky.

Kagome watched as Sesshomaru stepped from the Vanquish, going around to the passenger side to open her door for her. One thing she could say for the Daiyoukai even in this modern age, chivalry was not lost on him. He still held himself to the same high standard from the past. Following the same age-old code of honor. Sliding into the passenger seat with a small “thank you”, Kagome settled her small black purse next to her. This close, Kagome caught Sesshomaru's distinct and familiar scent. Deep forest blended with lightning, untainted by any modern-day colognes. It was a pure masculine scent.

Before Kagome could wonder at the odd flutter of her heart and pulse Sesshomaru rounded the hood and climbed back behind the wheel. Dropping the top as he pulled out of the apartment parking lot. As the sun sank fully from the sky Sesshomaru removed his sunglasses, watching the Miko from the corner of his eye. As Kagome stroked a hand over the butter soft stitched black leather seats.

The Miko then pinned Sesshomaru with an all-too-familiar direct stare before speaking.

“Sesshomaru, how is it you appear the same to me when even in this era it would not be entirely safe for a youkai even of your caliber to walk around in plain sight?” Kagome asked.

Used to her candor, Sesshomaru replied, “A concealment spell for the most part, Miko.” He began.

“One with your gifts or other such talents is unaffected by it.” Sesshomaru went on.

“Ah, makes sense.” Kagome replied with a nod.

“So, where are we going?” She continued.

“You'll see” was all the Daiyoukai said.

With a small smile, Kagome settled back to enjoy the ride as Sesshomaru flipped on the in-dash CD changer.

The first strains of Deva Premal's “Gayatri Mantra” flowed from the surround sound speakers.

“Deva Premal...” Kagome breathed.

“There is such a depth and soulful resonance to her voice.” She went on.

“Indeed.” Sesshomaru replied with a nod.

They turned onto Ponce De Leon St, and Kagome found Sesshomaru pulling into the parking lot of the Fair Grinds Coffeehouse. Settling her purse cross-body, Kagome smiled as Sesshomaru came around to open her door after cutting the engine and pocketing his keys. His elegantly clawed hand reached down to help her from the vehicle. And after only a moment's hesitation she took it.

Sesshomaru reluctantly releasing the Miko's hand as they approached the entrance to the establishment. Kagome perplexed at the warmth that seemed to linger on her skin from his touch. Once they were in line Sesshomaru gestured for Kagome to go first.

“A cup of Chai tea, a Nutella muffin, and a side of fruit, please.” She asked.

“And for you, Sir?” The barista asked.

“A cup of your French Roast and a blueberry scone.” Sesshomaru replied.

Kagome couldn't help but raise a brow. Surprised the Daiyoukai had a sweet tooth. He just gave her that same deadpan expression. Causing the Miko to smile softly. Once they received their order Sesshomaru led the way to a table near the back. One where they were less likely to be disturbed. Once they were seated Sesshomaru made a few subtle gestures. A transparent wall of power surrounding them. To shield the coming conversation Kagome was sure.

Taking a sip of her tea and nibbling some fruit she gestured for Sesshomaru to tell her whatever it was he felt it was necessary to tell her. After a sip of his coffee Sesshomaru began.

“Your selfless wish changed the very course of history, Miko.” He said.

“In ways both unforeseen and shocking.” “But to the betterment of mortals and youkai alike.” Sesshomaru went on.

“Even among my own family.” “In celebration of this an ancient tradition was revived.” “The Western Inu Clans annual Yule Ball.”

There, Sesshomaru paused, pinching the bridge of his nose in irritation.

“That's wonderful Sesshomaru, but what does that have to do with me...?” Kagome countered.

“It's not a world I am part of any longer.” She continued.

Sesshomaru only shook his head.

“Your name and your courage and sacrifices have not been forgotten, Kagome” Sesshomaru replied.

“Its time you saw that fact for yourself.” He went on.

“As well as what your giving heart birthed.” Sesshomaru continued.

“Plus, I dare not try to host this ball by myself...” His last words were very quiet.

And to Kagome's ears seemed almost desperate.

“What gives, this is so unlike you Sesshomaru...” The Miko mused.

“I am still not much of a people person, Kagome.” Sesshomaru said.

“Then, delegate.” “You are still a Lord after all.” She said, reasonably.

“I cannot, I lost a bet with Inuyasha...” He said it fast.

So fast, Kagome nearly missed it. But now she understood and smiled reassuringly at the Daiyoukai. It seemed Inuyasha expected Sesshomaru to proverbially speaking, fall flat on his face due to his reticence. Sesshomaru just as determined to prove his erstwhile younger sibling wrong.

“I can and will help you, Sesshomaru.” Kagome began.

“But I won't leave campus until the eighteenth.” “I still have finals and my commencement ceremony along with packing and such.”

Then she paused, wondering where she would stay once the campus closed for the holidays.

As though reading her thoughts Sesshomaru interjected, “A suite of rooms will be yours at the estate.” He said.

Having both finished eating as they talked both rose mindful of UNO's curfew. After exiting the coffeehouse, Sesshomaru once more opened her door for her. As Kagome settled in the passenger seat. Sesshomaru sliding behind the wheel as he put the Volante in drive. The music now was Sarah McLachlan's “Beautiful Girl”. Which Kagome found decidedly ironic. Even as she wondered over her odd reactions to Sesshomaru over the evening. Though strange the Miko couldn't say they'd been unpleasant. But they had certainly been different...

Of that there was no doubt. Once back on campus Kagome smiled as Sesshomaru walked her to her door, waiting until she was safely inside and he heard the snick of the locks before starting his car and driving away. His thoughts on the woman who held his heart in her dainty, but strong and capable hands. Secure in the knowledge he now had the time and opportunity to, Kami willing, win her for his own.

Kagome spent the next few days studying for finals. The two day testing period came. Where all her knowledge and hope was poured into the exams with hope of passing grades. When final marks were posted on the school's website several days later, Kagome breathed a sigh of relief. Smiling in triumphant glee. She had done it. The Miko had aced her finals.

Commencement Day finally arrived and Kagome looked out over the crowd as she crossed the stage for her diplomas. Feeling two very distinct and familiar auras. Inuyasha whistling as he caught her eye when she left the stage. Headed straight for the Inu brothers.

“Well, Inuyasha,” “What do you have to say about my 'pointless schooling' now...” Kagome quipped with smile.

The hanyou scratched the back of his head with a sheepish grin at her.

“Job well done, Kagome.” Inuyasha said, shocking the Miko.

Time had obviously matured even her once brash and tactless friend.

“We've come to help you pack so you don't get stuck waiting until the eighteenth.” “And of course, to help you celebrate.” Inuyasha continued.

At the mention of celebration, Kagome's eyes narrowed at the hanyou.

“What on earth made you make that ridiculous bet with Sesshomaru, anyway?” She asked.

Inuyasha was about to respond, but one look at Sesshomaru's face stopped the words.

Having seen the by-play Kagome was sure something more was going on. But chose not to press the issue, for now. On the drive back to her campus apartment though mildly confused, Kagome could not help but to be happy that some she had known in the past were still here. Little did she know, just how much change her wish had wrought.

Once back at her apartment, packing that would have taken her several days, with the help of Sesshomaru and Inuyasha was accomplished in about five hours. Having already seen to any last-minute paperwork the three were able to load up Kagome's things and head for the Taisho estate.

Once they arrived several valets took over unloading most of Kagome's things. Despite her protests the Miko was left only to carry her purse and laptop case. Though declining her help had been done with good natured warmth by each valet. All knowing exactly who the lovely but powerful ningen onna was.

Upon entering the Great Hall the three were greeted by Sesshomaru's butler and head housekeeper. Kagome noting the butler was a Black Inu Youkai while the housekeeper was a pale Kitsune Youkai.

Turning to Hiro, Sesshomaru spoke in dulcet tones.

“Have the other guests arrived, Hiro?” He asked.

Giving Sesshomaru an odd look, Kagome wondered just what the Inu siblings were up to.

Inuyasha having disappeared upstairs to his own rooms the Miko assumed.

“Hai, Sesshomaru-sama.” Hiro began.

“They are waiting in the drawing room, just as you requested, Sir.” He finished.

“Good.” Sesshomaru said with a nod.

Turning to Amaya, Sesshomaru asked, “Has the suite of rooms in the Family Wing been prepared for Lady Kagome?”

“Hai, Sesshomaru-sama.” “Her things have also been seen to.” “The suite awaits you, Kagome-sama.” Amaya said, bowing toward the Miko.

Kagome gave the Kitsune a smile in thanks.

“Amaya, will you show the Lady to her suite” Sesshomaru asked.

“Hai, Sesshomaru-sama.” The Kitsune said, gesturing for Kagome to follow her.

Heading upstairs, Kagome couldn't help but admire the lovely black white veined marble and dark wood banister of the staircase. The Miko was surprised at Sesshomaru's choice of a plantation house and yet somehow the aged beauty of it suited the Daiyoukai. The suite that would be hers was no less beautiful. With cherry wood floors, blond pine furnishings, and the walls painted a soothing light forest green. The curtains at the windows of the french doors leading to her balcony antique lace.

The attached sitting room appointed similarly. With blond pine furniture. Deep cushioned dark green velvet chairs, a settee, and chaise lounge. With a coffee and end tables to match smartly placed. For those times the Miko chose to privately entertain. The en suite bath a work of art. With the same black white veined marble floors. Which Kagome discovered with a small sound of delight were heated. A black marble jacuzzi tub, and separate multi-head shower. Forest green, black veined marble counter tops, antique yet lovely light fixtures around the beveled mirror. And a towel warmer set near the jacuzzi tub. It seemed Sesshomaru had spared no expense with his modernizations, but kept the integrity of the plantation house from ages past.

Hearing the Miko's sound of pleasure as Kagome came back into the bedroom Amaya asked, “Is it to your liking then, my Lady?”

“Please, call me Kagome.” The Miko began.

She gave Amaya a smile and the Kitsune was reminded of all the stories of the Shikon Miko's kindness.

With a smile of her own, Amaya nodded.

Then Kagome continued, “It's lovely, Amaya.”

“I'll leave you to freshen up and change, Kagome.” Amaya said.

With a smile and another bow the Kitsune left.

Having applied light makeup earlier, Kagome went to the armoire choosing a pale blue bell-sleeved peasant blouse and a cream colored peasant skirt that swished around the Miko's ankles. Exchanging her running shoes for a pair of sky blue ballet flats that matched her blouse. After reapplying a sheer lip gloss the Miko deemed herself ready and left her suite. Heading back downstairs she found Sesshomaru waiting for her. Kagome's heart rate picking up as she noted the Daiyoukai had changed as well from the business suit of earlier. Now he wore a silver silk button down, black slacks and his favored boots. And again the Miko wondered at her odd reaction to the Daiyoukai. As well as the gentleness and almost lightness that was in his aura when he was around her.

In the past, Kagome had always privately considered Sesshomaru to be handsome. In a lethal sort of way. But that was as far as it went. So her reactions to him now left the Miko puzzled. Watching Kagome, Sesshomaru gave a small smile. There and gone. As though it had never been. Though warmth lingered in his eyes when he looked at her. Even in clothes deemed 'casual' the woman somehow made them elegant. Taking the Miko's hand, the pair walked in companionable silence to the drawing room.

Before Sesshomaru opened the doors he gave Kagome's hand a squeeze saying, “Now, you will begin to see the changes you made, little Miko.”

When he threw open the doors, Kagome could only stare in stunned silence. Until Sesshomaru gave her a small nudge into the room, following close beside the Miko.

“Touga-sama...” Kagome breathed.

Shocked to see the former General very much alive. As well as the lovely women who were at his side. A silver Inu Kijo on his left. Who Kagome knew must be Sesshomaru's own mother. And the delicate ningen hime on his right. Izayoi. With a deep bow of utmost respect, Kagome let her gaze flow over the others in the room. Inuyasha, lazing in a chair with Kikyo tucked on his lap. Miroku settled on a love seat with a very pregnant Sango's head in his lap. While the monk stroked the former Tyja's hair. Kohaku seated on the floor next to the couple with Kirara in her mini form purring beside the now grown male Tyja. And Shippo seated in a chair much like Inuyasha. With a female Silver Kitsune in his lap. One who's brown eyes looked decidedly familiar.

Turning to Sesshomaru pleased disbelief plain on her face.

Kagome said, “I did this...?”

Sesshomaru nodded as he spoke.

“With some help from my father and heart's true love. And another's unknown natural gifts.” Sesshomaru replied.

“How?” Kagome asked, still lost.

“First, let me introduce you.” The Daiyoukai began.

“Higurashi Kagome, Shikon no Miko; my sire Taisho Touga.” He went on.

Moving forward with another deep bow Kagome said, “Its an honor to meet you at last, Sir.”

“And you, Miko-sama.” Touga replied with a bow in return.

From there Sesshomaru picked up the introductions again.

“My dam and First Mate to the former Inu no Taisho, Taisho Sayuri.” the Daiyoukai said.

“My younger brother's dam and Second Mate to the former Inu no Taisho, Taisho Izayoi.” Sesshomaru finished.

Kagome gave each woman a deep bow. The pair bowing in turn much as Touga had.

“Okay.” “Can someone please explain.” The Miko asked.

It was Touga who spoke first.

“You witnessed Kikyo's return before being returned to your time.” He began.

“But it was your selfless wish that reforged our shattered family bonds, young Miko.” Touga went on.

“As some of my most trusted allies and vassals the monk's family was given the choice to bear a thread of the blood of the Great House they have faithfully served.” He said.

As Touga spoke Kagome approached them. Hugging Miroku, laying a gentle hand on Sango's belly, before hugging Kohaku. As Kirara wound through the Miko's legs.

“You have no idea how happy I am to see all of you.” Kagome said.

The Miko noting the Prussian crescent moons upon the family's right wrists.

Then Shippo took up the story next.

“As you know Sesshomaru claimed Rin as a daughter.” He began.

“With the passing years I fell in love with her and asked to court and mate her.” Shippo continued with a light blush as Kagome hugged her adopted son.

Rin spoke next, squeezing Shippo's hand.

“At the time of our mating I didn't know that I was a Miko as well.” She said.

“The combination of my sire's blood and Shippo's transformed me into a Silver Kitsune.” Rin finished, her tone both happy and soft with remembrance.

“Your wish wrought great change in our lives and others, Kagome.” Inuyasha said.

“So true, my mate.” Kikyo hummed stroking one of his ears.

In the weeks leading up to the Yule Ball Kagome helped Sesshomaru's staff decorate the estate. As well as the grounds and plan the menu. The bond between her and Sesshomaru deepening day by day. Each evening they would share a cup of tea and talk of their days, the past, and many other things. The Miko understood now that the Daiyoukai was slowly winning her heart. And though she never learned what the bet had been, Kagome knew it was Christmas kismet that had brought her and Sesshomaru together.

And on the evening of the Yule Ball with the moon a crescent in the sky outside. And with all those Kagome's wish had touched. Youkai and ningen alike surrounding both her and the Daiyoukai. Sesshomaru knelt on one knee. A glowing sapphire set in a woven silver band in a small velvet box in his clawed hand.

He asked her to be his mate. And with joy and new love in her heart Kagome gave the Daiyoukai a heartfelt, teary yes. In this way, she became the salvation Sesshomaru had hoped for. The salvation of his heart. A heart that would ever after be hers and hers alone.