LoveSick

Chapter 4

Kagome's POV: As I strolled through the quaint village, the warm rays of the setting sun painting the cobblestone streets in hues of gold, I felt a sense of tranquility wash over me. The gentle chatter of the villagers echoed through the air, creating a harmonious symphony that filled my heart with warmth. Amidst the hustle and bustle, a thought crossed my mind – I would gather a bouquet of healing herbs to comfort those unwell.With a newfound purpose, I ventured into the lush meadows that bordered the village. The tall grass swayed gently in the breeze, revealing a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers and aromatic herbs. I carefully selected each herb, considering its medicinal properties and the ailments it could soothe. The pungent scent of thyme filled the air, promising relief for sore throats and coughs. The delicate petals of chamomile, known for their calming effects, would bring solace to those troubled by anxiety. I gathered bundles of lavender, its sweet fragrance believed to promote restful sleep, and rosemary sprigs, which enhanced memory and concentration.As I continued my leisurely walk, an unexpected sound broke the serenity of the forest. It was a voice calling out my name. "Kagome!" The voice echoed through the trees, growing louder as it drew nearer. I turned around to find Rin, her youthful face flushed with excitement as she ran towards me."Yes, Rin?" I questioned, curious as to the reason for her enthusiastic approach."I was wondering if you..." Rin hesitated, her words seeming to catch in her throat. "If you what?" I prompted gently, sensing her reluctance."If we can go see Lord Sesshomaru," Rin finally blurted out, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. I couldn't help but smile at her eagerness. After all, who could resist the allure of the enigmatic and powerful Lord Sesshomaru?"Sure, why not?" I readily agreed, finding myself just as curious to see the mighty lord as Rin was. With that, Rin took off, her tiny feet swiftly carrying her toward Sesshomaru's hut. I followed behind, my mind filled with excitement and nervousness.As we entered the hut, my eyes were immediately drawn to the figure of Lord Sesshomaru. He sat in a relaxed posture, his hands resting within the folds of his elegant kimono and his eyes closed in meditation. His countenance exuded an aura of tranquility and strength, an air of nobility enveloping him like a cloak.As I approached, his gaze slowly opened, his amber eyes meeting mine in a piercing stare. Time seemed to stand still momentarily as our gazes locked, an unspoken connection forming between us. It was a brief but intense exchange, and I was captivated by the depths of his gaze.However, our intense eye contact was interrupted by Rin, who excitedly announced that today was her birthday. The atmosphere in the hut shifted as Lord Sesshomaru turned his attention to Rin, a gentle smile gracing his usually stoic features. "Oh, Rin! Happy birthday," I exclaimed, unable to contain my delight at witnessing such a tender moment between them.Rin's smile was as bright and refreshing as a summer day, and for a moment, the weight of the world seemed to dissolve away.I carefully measured and mixed the ingredients, my fingers dancing precisely as I prepared Rin's beloved meal. The aroma of simmering broth and fragrant herbs filled the air, creating an inviting atmosphere in the humble abode.Lost in my culinary endeavors, I was oblivious to the presence behind me until a deep, masculine voice shattered the serene silence."Do what pleasure do I owe you, Lord Sesshomaru?" I inquired, my heart suddenly pounding in my chest."Hn," he replied with his characteristic brevity, his golden eyes piercing through me. "Your heart flutters, yet you remain still, Miko."His words sent a shiver down my spine, igniting a maelstrom of emotions. Memories of our encounter at the serene lake and the vivid dream that haunted my slumber flashed through my mind.When my gaze met him, time seemed to stand still instantly. Lord Sesshomaru's stoic demeanor masked a deep emotion that left me both intrigued and apprehensive."Do not burn the food, Miko," he uttered, his voice a low rumble that reverberated through my being.With a slight nod, I averted my eyes and returned to the simmering pot, feeling the heat of his presence linger in the air. As I continued to stir the fragrant stew, I couldn't help but wonder what Lord Sesshomaru's true intentions were.Was he merely amused by my flustered state, or was something more profound concealed beneath his aloof exterior? Lord Sesshomaru's enigma captivated my thoughts, leaving me yearning to glimpse the secrets hidden within his soul.Emerged from the kitchen carrying trays laden with steaming dishes, their aromas mingling tantalizingly in the air. I approached Rin and Lord Sesshomaru with practiced grace, setting the trays before them with a slight bow. As I stepped back, I noticed the sky outside darkening, the sun dipping below the horizon. The twilight cast a warm, ethereal glow upon the garden, and I was reminded of my nightly ritual."It is time for me to meditate," I announce, my voice soft yet firm. Rin's eyes widen in disappointment, but she nods understandingly. "I must go now, but I will return soon."With a heavy heart, I bid them farewell and went outside. The evening air was cool and crisp against my skin, and the stars were beginning to twinkle in the darkening sky. I found a secluded spot beneath a towering oak tree, its ancient branches reaching towards the heavens. I sat down cross-legged and closed my eyes, taking a deep breath.As I focus on breathing, I feel my mind and body relax. All thoughts and worries melt away, replaced by peace and tranquility. I am one with the universe, connected to the energies that flow through all living things.I sit in silence for a time, simply allowing myself to be. Then, I begin to chant a sacred mantra that resonates with my spiritual beliefs. With each repetition of the mantra, my connection to the divine deepens.As I meditate, I am visited by visions and insights that guide and inspire me. I see glimpses of the future and am given the wisdom and strength to face whatever challenges come my way.When I finally open my eyes, I feel renewed and refreshed. The night sky is ablaze with stars, and the moon hangs like a silver lantern in the heavens.A graceful figure appeared before me in the soft twilight—none other than the esteemed Lord Sesshomaru. His long, silver hair flowed effortlessly in the gentle breeze, shimmering like moonlight. As our gazes met, a deep connection sparked, causing my heart to race.I couldn't help but bite my lip, my mind consumed by fantasies about him. His presence was captivating and intimidating, a potent mix that left me breathless and longing for more. With a regal air, Lord Sesshomaru began to walk back from where he had come, leaving me entranced.Slowly, I followed behind, my steps deliberate as if each one was a precious moment to be savored. The sight of his back, the gentle sway of his moko moko as he moved, and the aura of power that surrounded him all ignited a fire within me, sending shivers coursing through my body.My face grew warm as I watched and fantasized about the enigmatic Lord Sesshomaru. Suddenly, his voice cut through my reverie, "Miko, how long do you tend to stare at me?"Startled, I shook out of my daydream, realizing I had walked right into him. "Huh!" I exclaimed, my heart pounding in my chest.Quickly, I averted my gaze, trying to hide my flushed cheeks from his piercing eyes. We made our way back to the hut where Rin was eagerly waiting. Upon seeing Lord Sesshomaru, her eyes lit up with joy. She asked me to put her to bed and tell her a bedtime story. As I settled Rin in, my mind couldn't help but wander back to Lord Sesshomaru. His words, his presence—everything about him had left an indelible mark on my heart.As the moon cast its silver rays upon the tranquil village, Kagome's heart yearned for adventure. With a determined stride, she left the confines of her humble hut, her footsteps echoing on the cobblestone path. Her destination: the ancient well, shrouded in mystery and legend.The path to the well meandered through lush green fields dotted with wildflowers that swayed gently in the breeze. As Kagome walked, the scent of jasmine and honeysuckle filled the air, carried by the playful wind.With each step, Kagome's anticipation grew. For generations, the well had been a part of local folklore, whispered tales of its mystical powers and connection to other realms.Reaching the edge of a dense forest, Kagome slowed her pace. The trees stood tall and imposing, their branches intertwined like gnarled fingers. A sense of unease crept into her mind, but she pushed it aside, driven by her curiosity.The air grew heavy with moisture, and the distant hooting of owls replaced the sound of birdsong.At last, Kagome emerged from the forest and found herself in a clearing. In the center stood the ancient well, its stone facade weathered by time. Vines clung to its sides, and a thin mist hung above it.It was her sixteenth birthday when she fell into the cursed well at her family's shrine and emerged into a time of war and turmoil. Now, nostalgia washed over her as she stood before the ancient well. Memories of her adventures with Inuyasha, the half-demon, and their companions flooded her mind. She recalled their battles against the evil forces threatening their world and the bond they forged through shared experiences. With a heavy sigh, Kagome turned away from the well, her heart filled with mixed emotions.As Kagome continued her journey, a sudden and intense pain struck her shoulder. She stumbled and fell, writhing in agony. The pain was unlike anything she had ever felt before. Desperately, she searched her surroundings for the source of the attack, but nothing was visible. Using her spiritual powers, Kagome tried to sense the presence of an enemy, but her efforts were in vain. Confused and frightened, she hurriedly sought refuge in a nearby cave, creating a protective barrier to prevent potential threats.As night fell, Kagome allowed herself to succumb to sleep. In her dreams, a familiar and comforting figure appeared before her. Sesshomaru, the mighty demon lord, emerged from the shadows, his long silver hair flowing gracefully. His piercing golden eyes met hers, and a sense of peace washed over Kagome."Miko, are you okay?" Sesshomaru's deep voice resonated with a warmth that soothed her troubled spirit. His presence brought her solace, reminding her she was not alone, even in the darkest times.In the depths of a relentless rainstorm, I stirred from my slumber. The thunder roared in the distance, and the pitter-patter of raindrops morphed into a loud surge, pounding against the earth with fury. A sense of unease gnawed at my heart, a realization that my fellow companions would worry for my safety.Determined, I emerged from the cave's shelter, the rain greeting me with icy fingers. Within moments, my hair clung to my scalp, and my clothes grew heavy with water. Undeterred, I braved the elements, my slippers squelching through the mud as I made my way through the forest. The trees loomed darkly, their branches swaying in the wind like skeletal arms reaching for the sky.My destination was the hut where my friend, Sango, resided. As I approached, I heard her voice calling, "Kagome, hurry inside!" I quickened my pace, eager to escape the torrential downpour. With a final burst of effort, I stumbled into the shelter of the hut, the rain thundering against the roof with renewed ferocity.Ever the practical one, Sango had foreseen my plight and prepared a fresh kimono. Grateful for her thoughtfulness, I changed from my wet clothes, my body shivering with a chill that had settled deep within my bones. Then, the fever struck, its icy grip claiming me as its victim.As the thunderstorm raged outside, I lay helpless on the futon, coughing and sneezing uncontrollably. Each hour that passed found me growing weaker, my body consumed by the relentless fever. With each labored breath, I felt myself slipping further into the abyss of illness.Just as my eyelids began to droop, succumbing to the allure of sleep, a figure appeared at my bedside. I blinked my blurry vision clearing just enough to recognize the long, white hair that cascaded over his shoulders. "Lord Sesshomaru?" I murmured in disbelief.He leaned closer, his golden eyes piercing mine. "Sleep, Miko," he intoned, soothing my fevered mind. And with that, I drifted into the darkness, comforted by his presence and knowing I was not alone in my suffering.