A tall, lean man walked sedately through the castle gardens, gazing at the multitude of flowers. To any onlooker, he seemed to be deep in thought or just enjoying the warm, sunny day. The sun's rays turned his otherwise nondescript brownish hair into a vibrant mahogany. The wavy length fell just past his shoulder blades and free of any confinement, sculpting his handsome visage. He was no lord but a steward by trade, and one of Sesshomaru's trusted advisors. His father before him had been the previous lord's—Inutaisho's—advisor and had even held the same position for a number of years when the Dog General had died, assisting his son, Sesshomaru-sama. Several years ago, the elderly demon had desired to resign and offered his son as a candidate to take over.
Sesshomaru-sama had accepted his advisor's advice and allowed Hiro to prove himself worthy of the post. Though many thought Hiro to be too young to take up such a prestigious post, he had never disappointed. Seemingly pleased with his work, Sesshomaru had allowed him to keep his job. Hiro took his duties seriously, was proud to be one of the few beings the Western Lord relied on.
Now, Hiro was taking a small break from his duties, walking the massive gardens. A small piece of parchment was clutched in his hand. There was no need to read the missive again. He had been summoned and at such an inconvenient time. Of course, he thought to dismiss the letter's contents and wait for nightfall before answering it. However, he couldn't for two reasons. One, the contents within beseeched him to come posthaste, and two, it was from the woman he had grown quite fond of.
Still, now really wasn't a good time.
Regardless, he gazed around himself and found a few servants here and there tending the garden. Without making eye contact, he moved farther through the garden, getting closer and closer to the forest on his left. When he was close enough, he did not make the mistake of looking around him to see if anyone watched him enter the trees, not wanting to appear in any way suspicious. His pace never altered as he moved farther into the cover of trees. At least not until he was positive he was out of sight from prying eyes. Only then did he pick up speed, racing through the forest. His chosen path made travelling to his destination longer, but if he left through the gates, his movements might be noticed, and this was a delicate situation he trod.
For the past two years, though such a small amount of time was like a blink of an eye to one of his kind, he had become fond of his paramour. Her smile brightened up the room, her scent intoxicated him, and her supple body was still youthful for all her centuries of life. His lover was older than him, but their age difference hardly mattered to him.
However, what did matter was that she summoned him with great urgency. Perhaps something was amiss because never before had she called to him before the sun had set where his movements could be hidden more easily. And, he had just seen her not a few days ago. It was far too early for him to visit again. So, he was curious and perhaps slightly worried. Was she alright?
He had to travel more quickly lest his absence be noted. Like everyone else in Lord Sesshomaru's household, he was part of an inu clan, so when he felt he was far enough away from the castle grounds, he shifted into his demonic form, a large inu with brown fur except for a patch of white under his muzzle, down his neck and chest, all the way to his underbelly. His coloring was common for his branch of family, and nowhere near the size and magnitude of the Western Lord's bloodline. Still, he was an impressive sight in his own right, strong and capable of defending himself from a stray demon or two who might be foolish enough to challenge him.
He traveled unmolested.
Not a half hour later, he arrived at his lover's estate. She was a woman of means, higher in rank than he, surely, and yet she was not so far up in society that would put her on level with his current employer. Her blood was pure, however, an aristocrat through and through.
And mated.
Hiro didn't love her, so her unavailability for a more permanent relationship bothered him not in the slightest. But he was the type of man to keep one lover for a somewhat lengthy period before moving on to the next when either of both individuals tired of the other's companionship. A smooth, clean break. But he always carried some fondness for his paramours. He never just used any woman for sexual gratification. He wanted a companion and somewhat friendly face to sit next to and spend time with—among other things.
He shifted back to his humanoid form when he stopped several miles from his lover's estate at the meeting place that had been written on the missive, now in his pocket. Still a little ways away from the exact location specified to him, he walked the rest of the way.
As if she had been waiting for him, a lavishly dressed woman stood gazing up at a tree in silent contemplation, before turning to meet his eyes. Hiro moved to her without delay, and with a pinched expression, she met him almost halfway, her dainty hands outstretched for him to take.
He didn't hesitate to clasp her hands in his much larger ones, giving them a reassuring squeeze. With only a small frown giving away his worry, he spoke.
"Are you unwell, milady? You are more than aware of the dangers we face should either of us be caught together in such a compromising situation, so tell me swiftly what reason you have for summoning me to you. I fear I cannot stay long."
"Hiro-san, forgive me for calling you so suddenly and at such an impromptu time, but I have a pressing concern I need to discuss with you."
Seeing that she was only mildly apprehensive, his worry lessened. Releasing one of her hands, he gently caressed her cheek, trying to calm her frazzled nerves.
"Than speak and see your concern relieved."
Tenderly, she nuzzled her cheek into the palm of his hand, her lips curling in a becoming smile, and lavender eyes looking up at him fondly. Even amongst demons, her irises were rare and beautiful. Her daughter had been fortunate to inherit such a lovely hue, and though Sayuri-hime was closer to his age—younger even—he could not hope to ever have such an arrangement with her as he had with her mother, untouched as she was. There, too, was the added incentive that she was Sesshomaru-sama's betrothed. He doubted any man would be foolish enough to make her his secret mistress. Regardless, he wasn't interested in the daughter, but in the mother, Kiyomi-sama.
Kiyomi felt somewhat reassured by her lover's appearance. She knew he had done her a great favor by rushing to her at her request. It was no light decision he had to make, for if he were caught meeting her in secret, her mate would not be pleased—angered even. Not to mention what might happen to her. The threat of punishment, of a verbal or even physical assault, from her mate at her unfaithfulness did not deter her in the least to continue her relationship with Lord Sesshomaru's advisor.
Love didn't even enter into the equation for her reasoning to take a lover nor was she prompted to seek another man's companionship out of loneliness and companionship. Though she neither loved her mate nor felt overly close to him, she had an ulterior motive to take Haru specifically to her bed. He was Lord Sesshomaru's trusted man, one of the few who the powerful lord relied on for anything.
It was supposed to have been her that the late Western Lord was to take as mate, at least until Inutaisho met Sesshomaru's mother and decided to mate with her instead. Kiyomi had been inwardly bitter and angry that she was not to be Lady of the West and consequently promised to another, a minor lord. The memory still rankled. But finally, Lord Sesshomaru sought a mate, and she'd helped influence Sesshomaru's decision with Hiro's help, though Hiro had not and still was not aware of her subtle manipulation to bring her daughter to his employer's attention.
Luck was surely on her side when Sesshomaru-sama had chosen her daughter to betroth. And why wouldn't he when his closest advisor had but mentioned their suitability. Men were so easy to manipulate if one knew what she was doing.
Now, however, her confidence had been shaken, for Sesshomaru-sama had not arrived at their appointed time the day before to meet his chosen mate nor did he give prior warning concerning his absence. He just hadn't shown. Why? Had something gone wrong? Was he aware of her matchmaking schemes? No, surely not. They would have received word if he had. The Western Lord was not one to take such manipulations without instant reprisal of some fashion.
"It's silly," she began in answer to Hiro's encouragement. "But I can't help but worry. Sesshomaru-sama did not appear at the appointed time yesterday to meet my daughter nor did he give word that he would not be able to show and reschedule. I wondered if he were unwell or if something had happened to him."
Hiro frowned slightly. He didn't seem all too happy with her for calling on him for such an inane reason. To him her concern might be foolish, but there was much at stake should Sesshomaru break off his engagement with her daughter. She had to gain access to that family and be placed in higher society. To be mated to a minor lord when she could have had the highest ranking for a woman imaginable was similar to a slap to the face. Doors would open, more prestige would grace her family name if her daughter could just prove herself worthy of becoming the next Lady of the West.
"Now, Kiyomi, my dearest, you know you should have more of a care when summoning me. Couldn't this conversation have waited until a more opportune time to discuss?"
Kiyomi almost gritted her teeth at the lack of concern in his dark brown eyes when she was all but worried sick by the situation. Didn't Hiro realize what was at stake should Lord Sesshomaru dissolve his tentative betrothal to her daughter? She'd never rise to the height of society she had always been meant to walk in!
However, it wouldn't do to openly show just how upset she was by his gentle but firm reprimand. She had long ago realized that this was a man's world, and if a woman was to get her way in anything, the most assured way was to cater to a man's pride and ego. A woman was never to show overly emotional displays, to make open demands, openly question his authority or intellect, and certainly not make him feel inferior in any way. To keep a man happy and even manipulate him to a woman's will, one had to be subtle in her approach.
Looking contrite, Kiyomi offered him an embarrassed smile and squeezed the hand she still held.
"Forgive me, darling. After voicing my concerns aloud, I realize how foolish I was by asking for your immediate presence. A woman can't help but worry about a soon-to-be pack member. But, since you're already here, could you relieve my worry and tell me if Sesshomaru-sama is well?"
His slightly censorious expression softened, and he patted her hand soothingly.
"Hai. All is well with his lordship. I apologize in his stead for his absence until he can make a formal apology himself. If I had known he would not be present, I would have informed you ahead of time. But it seems Lord Sesshomaru had been absent all day and night, and just recently returned late this morning. He seems…preoccupied at present, though I'm sure he will see your family at the soonest availability."
Though she was relieved Sesshomaru hadn't been absent because he had come to disapprove of his choice in mate, Hiro had said nothing to indicate what had taken him away from his appointment. It must have been pressing business to not even send word of his unavailability. Now for the tricky part—to gain information without seeming like she was prying into business she really had no part of.
Smiling in relief, she said, "Thank you. For a while there, I feared something untoward had happened."
"Of course not," Hiro was quick to reassure. "Right now, his lordship has secluded himself in his library, but I'm sure he will call on you soon."
She nodded, though she continued to pry, curious to know if Sesshomaru's activities in his library had anything to do with why he had been away from his domain last night.
"I'm sure his library is much more vast them my mate's, but if we can be of help in any way, our library is open to him for his use anytime. If I may, I could search the archives for any information he might require."
"That is very generous of you, milady, but unnecessary. Sesshomaru-sama searches through very ancient texts." Hiro chuckled. "It baffled me really when he asked me about a certain subject. Never would have thought it of him, actually."
Kiyomi chuckled lightly with him and jokingly said, "Share your humor with me, would you? What is so shocking that would raise such amusement from you?"
Obviously seeing no harm in her banter, he told her.
"Soul mates, if you can believe it. Perhaps, his new betrothed has turned him whimsical?" he chuckled again, shaking his head.
Her heart skipped a beat. Now, why would Sesshomaru-sama be interested in such a topic of controversy? Few even believed there was such a thing as soul mates, so rare did such a phenomenon occur. Many believed it was foolishly associated with love. Moreover, such an occurrence happened more often in the lower class of demon society, and probably impossible for ningen. But then again, even those few times with the lower class, it happened rarely. She herself didn't believe in such folly. Surely there was no such thing as one soul calling out to another.
Feeling more relieved than before, she shared a small laugh with Hiro before he leaned down to offer her a parting kiss.
"I fear I must depart your lovely company, Lady Kiyomi. I shall await with bated breath until next we meet."
"Until later then," she smiled up at him.
Then he was striding away, the forest soon swallowing him up. Turning on her slipper clad foot, she walked sedately back to her estate, her mind finally at peace.
Soul mates, she chuckled inwardly. Such foolishness.
It wasn't until she saw her home ahead that a thought struck her like a hammer's blow. Since when did Lord Sesshomaru waste his time for any matter? He was too calculating and precise to dally in anything not of some measure of importance. Adjusting her steps that would take her to a small bench in her garden instead of going inside as she had planned, she sat regally, and stared at a purple iris without actually seeing it.
Why his sudden interest in the subject? Did he really believe in such nonsense? And if so, who did he think was his soul mate? Did he believe he had found his? Was that even possible?
Could it be..? She blinked, then hope filled her breast. Did he believe her daughter was his soul mate? The reason hardly mattered to her. All that really mattered was that he thought so. However, before her mind could rejoice in the thought that Sayuri's new position was secured indefinitely, another thought filtered insidiously through her mind. Though she knew very little about the subject, most young females fancied the romantic notion of having a soul mate, where there was one man out there destined for her and her alone.
Sesshomaru-sama had never laid eyes on her daughter. How could he believe Sayuri was his fated female if he had never actually seen her in person? Then it hit her. Was it possible..? Could he actually have found another woman he believed to be his soul mate? But who? When? How?
Her eyes narrowed. Could the answer be the reason for his absence the night before? If that was the case, he had to have met this unknown female on his journey to her home yesterday. Well, if such a woman existed, she'd hire a trusted servant to ferret out the information. Surely someone had seen Lord Sesshomaru while he was away and knew of his whereabouts and who he had been with.
Her lips firmed into an unhappy line. She had to know. There'd be no peace for her until she did.
Seated in a padded chair with a table before him, Sesshomaru gazed down at one of several parchments scattered on the surface before him, which essentially had the same bit of information in this text as all the others. He'd briefly spoken with his advisor Hiro hours ago, discussing where exactly the information he required was shelved in his vast library, before dismissing the man. Now, after finding precious little on the subject, with no real, solid history to support this phenomenon, Sesshomaru again read the section that most aptly described 'soul mates'.
A soul filled with darkness, another overflowing with light. A creature of the night, the other walking in the light. It is rare—if impossible—for one to be completely neutral, with the same level of evil and purity in his soul when shaped by this world. A side is always chosen consciously or subconsciously. Too much of either can lead to destruction, for there cannot be darkness without light nor light without shadows. Two souls—one black and one white—become one, creating a balance between the separate individuals, making them whole. Soul mates.
Upon first meeting, the two souls recognize each another as their other half. All senses are opened wide and both become susceptible to the other's presence, a primal signal that cannot be denied until they are made one. Once made whole, one cannot live without the other. Where one goes, the other must follow. When one dies, so does the other to make the journey to the next life together.
Sesshomaru looked away from the parchment and gazed unseeingly before him, his left hand moving, his claws tapping sharply against the table's smooth surface, deep in thought.
He recalled the first time he'd laid eyes on Kagome. No, it was before that. First, he'd scented her blood, and he'd been drawn to her ever since. The smell, sight, feel, and taste of her intoxicated him, and the sexual desire he felt for her had been there from the very beginning, stronger than anything he'd ever felt before. Apparently, he wasn't alone in his predicament, for he'd noticed that she, too, reacted to him on a primal level, all too aware of him. What was more, it seemed they were capable of sharing erotic dreams.
This feeling, this pull, was shared by them both, and neither of them could blame their attraction upon lust. Lust was incapable of prompting anything but a physical response from a person, and yet, when he had left her there, at his shiro alone, she had been distraught, even anxious at his departure, and he…felt. For the first time in his long life, he'd wanted to comfort another, to put her happiness above all others—even his own. No, this couldn't be lust. Obsession? Sometimes it felt like it, but it was more than that.
Could it be possible? Did soul mates exist and was Kagome, a human miko, his?
Impossible.
Sesshomaru felt anger swell inside him. If he were to actually believe in the ridiculous concept that soul mates existed, how could fate give him a human to bond with?
Once made whole, one cannot live without the other. Where one goes, the other must follow. When one dies, so does the other to make the journey to the next life together.
His jaw flexed at the remembered quote.
If he took the miko to his bed then they would be forever tied together, or so that's how he interpreted the message. There was just one problem with that concept. She was human. Did that mean his lifespan, which could continue for many more centuries, would become limited to a couple decades? Ningen lived such short lives. Would he, too, be forced to die so soon if their souls became one? The thought was not to be born.
Then his eyes widened. Or was it possible Kagome's lifespan would lengthen to his, or perhaps somewhere in between? Could he take the risk, though? He had no intention of living for such a short time when a human life was like a blink of an eye compared to a demon's. Surely fate would not give him a human for a soul mate.
A dark chuckle escaped him, short lived.
Oh, the irony. He, a powerful lord, a daiyoukai who had disdained humanity, bound to one for the rest of his existence. His father would be laughing in his grave. Another thought dispelled his black humor, leaving anger in its place. A child between a demon and human was possible; however, the only offspring that could come of such a union was a half-breed. His pups would be weak, his pure bloodline forever diluted. It was impossible for a hanyou to take over the West in his stead when the time came.
He could not accept this, and there was no doubt in his mind that his subjects would revolt under such leadership. Hell, they would rebel long before that. Dissension would break out throughout the land the moment he even attempted to announce Kagome as his intended mate. Before they could even be mated, his people would turn their backs on him. Worst case scenario, war would break out, and he was not certain just how many of his subjects would remain loyal to him and fight for his side. He could lose everything. Even if Kagome was his supposed soul mate, was creating a union between them worth the catastrophe waiting to happen?
His first banged against the table top, and it groaned under his minor assault, threatening to break and buckle. He hardly noticed or cared.
Impossible, he seethed, his jaw tense as he clenched his molars tightly. He refused to believe a ningen was his soul mate. In fact, this whole concept of two souls becoming one was ridiculous! Soul mates did not exist. The few fools who claimed they had such a union were obviously mad.
And what if it were true? That there was the other half of my soul out there, somewhere?
The thought came unbidden to his mind, aggravating him further. Fine. If such a concept did indeedexist, it was impossible that his soul mate was his natural born enemy. A priestess was created by the kami to eradicate his kind with her purification powers. He'd never even heard of a union between a demon and a miko, let alone the two being soul mates. Wouldn't Kagome's body reject the presence of a demon babe in her womb? Wouldn't any miko?
He had to know.
With that thought in mind, he intended to look through his library on this new subject, but first, he needed to write a letter to Sayuri-hime's parents and formally apologize for his absence the day before and reschedule a meeting. Tomorrow perhaps. Though he'd promised the miko he would return as soon as possible, he had said he might not be back until the next day. Instantly, his mind wanted to rebel at the idea of spending the night away from her, and that was why he decided to stand firm and stay at least one night away from her. This strong pull would not dictate to him.
He, the Western Lord, one of the four most powerful youkai in the region, did not miss a human. He didn't need her.
His mind made up, he stood and made his way out of his library, ignoring all servants he met in the hall, and shut himself away inside his study. In minutes, a letter to Sayuri-hime's parents was penned and given to a messenger to deliver posthaste. A reply was sure to follow before the day's end, but instead of waiting for it in his study, he returned to the library and spent the next few hours searching through his texts, reading up on miko. He had to know if they were capable of bearing a child from a demon's seed.
Hours later, he came up empty handed. There was no such recorded birth in any of his scrolls. In frustration, the table was turned into a heap of splinters and broken wood as his fist once again hit the tabletop.
"Can I touch you?"
Sesshomaru's heart thudded almost painfully in his chest at Kagome's innocent question. Between his legs, his rod pulsed in answer, as if volunteering for the chance to be fondled by her hand. His hooded eyes fell to her kiss swollen lips, and a bead of precum leaked from the small slit at the crown of his cock, imagining her opening for him and delving into the moist cavern of her mouth.
A groan vibrated from deep within his chest. Without hesitation, his arms pushed beneath her back, holding her close, before rolling, taking her with him easily. Black tresses fell across his chest as he settled the miko atop him. Her knees parted without any prompting from him, and she straddled him. Naked, sweat coating their flushed flesh, the tip of his cock rested hard beneath her dripping folds, flooding him with her heat.
He shuddered violently at the contact but gritted his fangs, searching for restraint. Not yet. He wouldn't end this prematurely by thrusting inside her welcoming sheath, not after the promise of her touch. Looking up at her, he saw her lips form a small 'oh' and knew she was just as fixated at the proximity of their genitals. Searching her eyes, Sesshomaru saw lust mixed with appreciation and fascination as her dark orbs lowered to his chest, worshiping him with her eyes.
He felt her gaze like a touch, his blood burning hotter.
"Anywhere, everywhere you wish," he rasped. Just touch me! he thought in suspended agony.
To encourage her, he gripped her wrists, her hands and forearms propping herself up on his chest, and dragged her palms down his body and over his nipples. The hard nubs seemed to draw her attention. As if remembering how it felt when he'd touched her own, her fingers traced the flat disk of his right nipple, and he shivered in reaction. Instantly, her eyes fluttered up to meet his. She must have seen his desire and pleasure at her touch, for she grew more courageous and used her thumb to circle not one but both of his nipples.
It was electrifying. He'd never known he could be so sensitive.
Her nail scraped over his left nipple, and he gnashed his teeth. Releasing his gaze, though he continued to watch her in heated silence, Kagome pinched and toyed with one nipple, while she moved her hair behind one ear, before lowering closer to him. Hot breath washed over an erect nub, then her tongue scorched his flesh. As he had done to her just minutes ago, she swirled the appendage around his nipple, wetting it. Mercifully, she began suckling him.
Keeping her in place as pleasure radiated throughout his body, he cupped the back of her head with the palm of his hand. A hiss escaped him as he threw his head back, fangs bared when she bit his nipple. Her tongue lashed him, soothing the erotic sting.
"Again," he demanded roughly. "But harder!"
Seeming pleased by her success to drive him wild, she emanated a small sound of feminine triumph before doing as he ordered. Her mouth moved, kissing, licking at the contours of his chest, relocating to give his neglected nipple the same treatment.
Hell and damnation! What was she doing to him?
He was quickly losing his mind, his control unraveling as it had never done before when he'd been with another partner. All those other females paled in comparison to this goddess above him. Her nails scratched him, her breaths quickening hotly across his pecs. Though she was the one giving him pleasure, she moaned and rubbed her core against his aching shaft, right there with him, gaining pleasure just by touching him.
So responsive. He couldn't wait a second more!
Need crashed into him. He had to have her. Now!
Growling, he reached for her, intending to roll atop her once more, and impale her with his erection. She was ready, more than ready. Her arousal permeating the air around them, driving him wild with pent up lust. However, his surroundings wavered, then was gone.
Sesshomaru blinked open his eyes, panting for breath as he gazed up at his bedchamber ceiling. In dawning comprehension, he looked around him, seeing his quarters in his stronghold. Blinking, he glanced over at the spot beside him, but no one was with him in his bed—she wasn't here. He'd left Kagome at his secluded shiro.
Sitting up, he flung his blanket away with a silent snarl. When he moved to swing his legs over the side of the bed, intending to get up, his heavy erection taunted him. Gritting his teeth, he absolutely refused to bring himself to release this time. Somehow, he found a measure of control and swiftly moved to the room connected to his sleeping quarters, his bathing room. He hadn't even bothered to put on a robe or get dressed and strode naked towards the sunk in tubs that had a hot spring heating the large pool.
It wasn't until he was submerged into the hot water that he realized he would rather have a cold bath—a very cold bath—to cool his ardor. The clear water did nothing to hide his engorged erection. The bloody thing was near impossible to ignore as the water gently lapped at his erection, and an image came unbidden to his mind of the miko's small hands caressing him. Resting his elbows on the cold floor behind him, he tilted his head back, eyes closed, allowing the fantasy to play in his mind for another minute or two. However, dreams were not reality—right? And yet, he wondered if Kagome had also shared in his erotic dream. He'd been more than a little sure of the possibility that first time.
No! This cannot be happening. Not to him, and certainly not concerning a ningen. With more willpower than he thought he had, Sesshomaru gritted his teeth and finished his bath more quickly than usual before deciding to get some paperwork finished in his study before leaving for his late morning appointment with Sayuri-hime. The previous day, after his fruitless search in his library concerning a demon and miko conception, a letter had been waiting for him in his study accepting his apology for missing his engagement with his betrothed and accepting his presence later today.
With thoughts of his betrothed, he tried to banish Kagome from his mind. It was about time he mated and sired an heir. There was no time or place in his life for the miko, and he refused to allow her to get in the way of his carefully laid out plans. No matter how much he was attracted to her and her to him, it amounted to nothing. He wouldn't—couldn't—have her.
Still, he wanted her anyway, no matter how much he wished otherwise.
Later that morning, Sesshomaru found himself sitting alone as he waited for Sayuri-hime to make her appearance. He'd finally arrived at her home, her parents greeting him graciously, before asking him to wait in one of their sitting rooms while they sought out their daughter. This would be the first time he'd lay eyes on the woman he'd chosen most suitable for his mate. Though Sayuri-hime was not amongst the higher circle of society, her bloodline was impeccable, still considered a suitable match for one such as he.
To be honest, she had not been his first choice when searching for a suitable mate to bear his heirs. However, Hiro had brought this family to his attention as a possible candidate. Of course, he was aware that Sayuri-hime's mother had once been betrothed to his deceased sire. He cared not nor did he offer for Sayuri-hime to right a past slight when his father had chosen his mother over Lady Kiyomi. After going through a list of names Hiro had assisted in constructing for him of suitable candidates, he'd decided his advisor may be correct in suggesting Sayuri-hime.
She was of noble birth, from a pure, unblemished bloodline, and noted to be quite the beauty, what with her violet eyes and platinum blonde hair. No scandal was associated with her or her family's name, and if he were honest, he'd found it a tedious task when going through the list of possible candidates. One eligible female was as good as another in his opinion, so he'd taken Hiro's advise.
Soft footsteps coming closer interrupted his thoughts. Just as a tall, beautifully dressed demoness entered, Sesshomaru stood politely. As the youthful woman bowed low in greeting, behind her was her maid, who bowed even lower out of respect for his high station. Nodding his head in a small bow of his own, he bade them both to stand.
Violet eyes lifted to meet his briefly before they were again lowered modestly.
"It is wonderful to finally meet you, Sesshomaru-sama. I am Sayuri. Thank you for taking the time to come visit. It's a great honor."
Her voice was low and pleasing to the ear, almost lyrical.
"Hn. Come, join me," he replied, waving his hand to a lush pillow on the other side of the small table before him.
"Hai, milord." Before complying with his command, she turned to her maid and motioned for her to kneel by the sliding doors that remained open for properties sake. Apparently, the hime's parents were offering them the opportunity to converse alone, while the maid was to be their silent chaperone.
Turning back to him, Sayuri-hime's movements were unrushed and measured as she moved forward, but her long legs quickly brought her to the low table, and once she was comfortably seated, he took up his own seat once more.
"Tea will be brought in shortly, milord."
He nodded silently in answer. Then silence settled around them. It was then Sesshomaru realized just how out of his depths he was in such a setting. It was rare for him to be alone in a woman's company and more uncommon yet with just the intention to converse with one another. What in bloody hell was he to talk about? Why had he insisted on meeting his betrothed before the mating again? It really wasn't necessary to meet one's bride before the ceremony; however, he'd wanted to look upon the woman who was to be his mate beforehand.
After long seconds of awkward silence, he inquired about her and her parents' health. A safe enough topic, he thought. That was the beginning of a very tedious conversation. Though Sayuri-hime was enchanting, offering small smiles and some witty humor, she was polite…and boring. She was nothing like the energetic miko who said just about anything that crossed her mind and challenged him in small, subtle ways.
Sesshomaru blinked, then felt like scowling when he realized he was comparing the two women. It was obvious to anyone who saw the two women that Sayuri-hime would be the more beautiful of the two, but in his eyes, Kagome outshone the hime with her sunny smile and quick wit. More than once he'd thought the miko prattled on excessively, now he was grateful for her outspoken personality. Sayuri-hime was dull, soft spoken, and deferred to him, allowing him to lead the conversation and do most of the talking. He wasn't very talkative to begin with, and to be put on the spot to keep the conversation going was trying, not to mention tedious. What did one talk about to gentle females?
Where was the excitement? The thrill of conversing with another just to see what she would say in response to one of his retorts? Belatedly, he realized this had been a bad idea. Not only was he far from adapt at holding any sort of lengthy conversation with a female other than Kagome, but he also couldn't stop thinking about the miko.
After only fifteen minutes in his future mate's company, Sesshomaru's mood was already dark. Without realizing it, he was scowling, but his companion took note of his uncommon show of expression.
"Milord, are you well?"
"What?" he asked stupidly, bemused by her question.
Sayuri-hime's hands fluttered nervously on her lap and her eyes darted away from his own.
"Nothing, milord. It's just…you seem…upset? Is there anything I can do to—"
"No," he interrupted. Her eyes swung back to his in surprise at his curt reply. Silently cursing himself, he stood. "Forgive me, hime, but I have just realized I have pressing business to attend to. If you'll excuse me?"
"Oh… Yes, of course, Sesshomaru-sama. Allow me to see you out."
He paid no heed when she bowed before rising to follow him out of the room. A few words were exchanged with her parents before he was able to depart. He wasted no time, angered anew that he would show any outward appearance to his inner thoughts. What was the miko doing to him?
Kiyomi hid her disquiet at Lord Sesshomaru's departure, not wanting her mate or any of the servants to see her reaction. She was, however, going to have a talk with her daughter—now.
"Sayuri, dear? Do you mind coming with me? It'll only be a moment."
At her daughter's nod of acceptance, Kiyomi offered her mate a small smile and kissed his cheek, before leading her daughter through their home and out a back door. In the garden, hidden from prying eyes and eavesdroppers, she turned to her daughter. Though she tried to remain calm, her voice was laced with a gentle reprimand.
"Sayuri, girl. I must inquire why Sesshomaru-sama not only departed so soon after his arrival, but why he seemed agitated. Need I remind you it is not beneficial to anger the man who will soon be your mate? Especially someone as influential as Sesshomaru-sama? What did you do while you two were alone and don't lie. I'll be questioning your maid as well to make certain."
Wide eyed, her daughter gazed back at her as if surprised by her accusations. Her hands fluttered in front of her nervously. "Mother, I did nothing to upset his lordship. At least, I don't believe I conducted myself poorly in his presence."
Seeing her genuine upset, Kiyomi offered her daughter a smile and ushered her to one of the benches. Once they were seated side by side, she took Sayuri's hand in both of her own, patting the back lightly, consolingly.
"Forgive me, daughter, if I come off as harsh, but I must say it was a surprise to see Sesshomaru-sama leave in such a manner. Now, tell me. What was said between you two? Did you have a slight disagreement?"
To say Kiyomi was a little worried about Sesshomaru's departure was an understatement. She thought she'd taught her daughter well on how best to conduct herself in front of a man, especially before one as powerful and influential as the Western Lord. Didn't the silly girl realize how lucky she was to have been chosen out of dozens upon dozens of other females to become Lord Sesshomaru's mate? There was no greater catch in the lands, for he was one of four prominent families.
Lord Sesshomaru was lord over the entire Western territory, the ruling family being of the inu clan, then there was the Lord of the East, who was from the bird clan, next the Lord of the North, the cat clan, and last, the Lord of the South, the dragon clan. Since they—Kiyomi and Sayuri—was part of an inu bloodline, they could only mate and breed with their own kind, which was other inu. That being said, Sayuri had the opportunity to land the greatest catch in their entire clan, the Lord of the West. Of course, there were different factions to the inu race, but any one of the highborn inu demoness' had a shot at being at the top of the clan beside Lord Sesshomaru as his mate.
Fate had looked kindly at their family when Lord Sesshomaru had picked her daughter to reign beside him, and she'd be damned before she allowed the title and all the power and wealth it entailed to slip through her fingers again because her daughter had done or said something to displease Sesshomaru. Though a betrothal was typically just as binding as an actual mating, because Lord Sesshomaru was one of the most influential lords alive, no one would comment against him if he wished to choose a different bride. She should know. It had happened to her when Inutaisho had gone back on his betrothal with her for Lord Sesshomaru's mother. After all these centuries, it still caused her a great deal of bitterness to have been cast aside for another woman.
No, she hadn't loved Inutaisho, but she had coveted the position the title of being his mate would have given her. Though she wouldn't be the Lady of the West should her daughter mate with Lord Sesshomaru, her status would elevate greatly when her family created ties with the West. Her daughter better not screw this up for her or there would be hell to pay!
"He hardly spoke, mother. I tried to engage him in light conversation, but his lordship seemed to be deep in thought. I noticed his attitude seemed strange, upset even, from the moment we met."
"So you didn't do or say anything to run him out of our estate?" Kiyomi insisted, tightening her hand around her daughter's.
Sayuri glanced down at their clasped hands with a wince and tried to gently pull away from her, but Kiyomi only tightened her hold until Sayuri gasped.
"Mother, you're hurting me," she whispered.
"Answer me!"
Whimpering, she said quickly but with conviction, "No! I said nothing, did nothing to displease his lordship. Mother, please…"
Seeing the truth in her daughter's face more than her words, Kiyomi released her tight hold on her hand and pulled her in for a gentle embrace, cooing to her in apology.
"Forgive me, daughter. I did not mean to hurt or upset you." She stroked her daughter's back soothingly, trying to make up for her uncustomary temper. "You know how I worry for your future, dear. With the Lord of the West as your mate, I know you will be provided for and protected like the precious gem that you are."
Relaxing into her arms, her daughter wrapped her arms around her and buried her face in her neck, finally accepting her comfort. Ah, how trusting her daughter was. She'd never known a father's disapproval or a mother's heavy hand lashing out in any and all imagined insults as punishment. Though Kiyomi had hoped for a different mate, at least the man she was bound to seemed to cherish his daughter, and she'd vowed to never strike any child of hers as her own mother was want to do to her when she'd still lived at home.
A small twinge of guilt attacked her conscious. She'd never before acted so harshly to her daughter, and now that she had, she feared she was more like her mother than she had previously thought. But it had been for good reason! Sayuri had to realize just how important it was to stay in Lord Sesshomaru's favor.
"There's nothing to forgive, mama. I know how important it is to be a dutiful mate towards Sesshomaru-sama, and I know you and papa just want what's best for me. I'll make sure his lordship never has doubts or regrets that he chose me. I promise."
"You're a good daughter, Sayuri, and I'm proud of you, as is your father." Leaning back, she smiled softly at her and patted her cheek affectionately. "Now run along. Too much sun isn't good for your complexion."
Sayuri smiled brightly, all but forgetting her mother's strange behavior just minutes ago, and left her alone to her thoughts. Kiyomi's smile disappeared once her daughter was out of sight. She bit her bottom lip but quickly released it, not wanting to ruin her lip paint. If Sayuri hadn't upset Sesshomaru-sama, why had he left so soon after his arrival? Though this was the first time he'd actually met her daughter face to face, she doubted he found fault with her appearance. Sayuri had been dressed in one of her best kimono, her hair styled atop her head artfully, and she was young and beautiful. What with her light blonde hair and violet eyes, any man would covet her daughter on her looks alone.
Sayuri had mentioned he'd been in a dour mood from the beginning. But why? What had been on his mind to cause him to leave so suddenly? Something was wrong. Then she stilled, frozen in place. Could it have something to do with his sudden interest in soul mates? Was it possible he'd actually met a women he believed to be his fated other half and thought her daughter wasn't suitable to be his mate? Impossible! Such a concept was nothing more than a young girl's fantasy. But it seemed Sesshomaru-sama might believe in such a fairytale. And if so, it was probably that her daughter was not the female who had caught his attention.
Kiyomi clenched her fists into her elaborate kimono, wrinkling the fabric. Who was this woman? Or was she blowing this whole thing out of proportion, seeing an enemy where none hid? Well, she'd have her answers soon enough. She'd dispatched a servant the other day to search the surrounding area, the forests as well as the villages, in hopes of locating just where Lord Sesshomaru had been yesterday when he should have kept his appointment with her daughter.
And if word returned that there was indeed a female that had caught his attention, causing him to believe in soul mates, what then?
A determined look settled upon her face. If there was another woman, then she'd just have to eliminate the threat to her daughter becoming the new Lady of the West. She'd done nothing in the past except watch as Inutaisho took another as his mate instead of keeping his promise to her, but she refused to let the past repeat itself. This time, she would not be a silent bystander.
"I have an important task for you, Hiro," Sesshomaru informed his man-of-affairs.
They were both in his study, Sesshomaru seated behind his massive, mahogany desk and Hiro standing before him on the other side. His advisor seemed unperturbed when he got down to business. Sesshomaru had commanded a servant to locate Hiro and summon him to his study promptly, and when the other man had arrived, he'd forgone any pleasantries before making his statement. Hiro had worked for him for a number of years, so he was accustomed to his forthright attitude. His advisor hadn't even batted an eyelash but had continued forward until he stood tall in front of his desk.
"Of course, milord. If I am able to help you in any way, you have only to speak and it is done."
Sesshomaru had no doubt about that. The man had proven himself time and time again to be reliable when a task was laid before him. Not to mention he was loyal but above all discreet when the situation called for it. Now was one of those times.
"This matter must be handled with care. I want no one to know what you are about, understand?"
"Hai, milord." Hiro nodded, his expression turning serious as he waited for his command.
Leaning forward, Sesshomaru placed his elbows on his desk—something he rarely did—and put his fingers together, gazing over them at his right-hand man.
"I want you to locate any individuals of any class who claim to have mated their soul mate. Bring them to me. If they reside in the West, make it a decree from the lord of these lands—me—that they cannot refuse my hospitality without dire repercussions. I wish to understand this connection they claim to have between them, nothing more. Is that understood, Hiro?"
"I will see it done, milord. Should I leave personally to go fetch these individuals once I learn of their location or order guards to retrieve them?"
Though his request was obviously an odd one, Hiro did not look the least bit surprised or ask questions concerning his interest in the topic. Like before when he'd inquired where he could find texts concerning soul mates, Hiro hadn't reacted in any way or questioned him. Instead, he'd helped him find what he was looking for without unnecessary commentary. And again, Hiro accepted one of his orders and planned on fulfilling his duties to the fullest without any fuss.
Because of his attitude towards his job, Sesshomaru found him invaluable. Ever since giving Hiro the post, which had been recommended by the younger man's father, he'd never once regretted his decision. His loyalty was faultless, and Sesshomaru paid him handsomely in return.
Sesshomaru nodded in answer to his advisor's question. "I want as few people to know of this as possible, so discretion is a must. Once you locate where just a mated pair to be, I will allow you to bring a handful of guards as added protection when you travel through my lands and an added incentive just in case any are hesitant to accept my hospitality. However, tell none of the guards your reasons for commanding their presence. In fact, don't tell the mated pair either and only inform them that I request their presence here. I'll let them know of their purpose here myself."
"Consider it done, milord. Is there anything else you require of me?"
Sesshomaru leaned back in his seat, considering Hiro's question, before speaking.
"Yes… There is one other thing I require of you. I need to know if it is possible for a miko to sire demonic offspring successfully or if their purification powers prevent such an occurrence. I do not have the time to inquire personally, but you might find an answer by going to Bokusenou and pose the question to him. If not, find an alternative source of information."
Hiro nodded in understanding.
"Oh, and Hiro? Do try to gain the information I require on both matters as soon as possible."
"That went without saying, milord," he replied with a small smile. "If there's nothing else… I'll get started right away."
Having said his piece, Sesshomaru dismissed Hiro with a wave of his hand. After bowing respectfully to him, Hiro departed, shutting his study doors quietly behind him. When he was again alone, Sesshomaru stood, ignoring the piles of paperwork in need of his attention. There was always paperwork, no matter how much he looked through and completed, more took their place. Sometimes, he felt like it was an endless cycle. Though it was one of his many duties, more often than not, it was a tedious task, and thankfully, he had Hiro to help him by taking some of the burden off his shoulders. Moving around his desk, he moved to look out his window.
Reflectively, he had to admit that being lord over the entire Western territory was a huge burden on any one man; however, he strived to perform his duties to the best of his abilities, shirking none of his responsibilities—no matter how tedious the task. Like his late sire before him, he strived to be an exemplary leader.
However, what truly made him happy, was being a warrior, the leader of his vast army. When he had his sword in hand, fighting and defeating a powerful, worthy foe, it was at those times when he felt truly alive. Even though he was thankful for these peaceful times, when it came time to raise his army for war, he was always right there fighting beside his men. Not only did his presence on the battlefield, fighting beside them, boost his men's spirits but also commanded their respect. It was one thing to be the lord of the lands by birth but an entirely different matter to gain the respect and loyalty of his men when fighting alongside them. His people followed him not just because he was their lord but also because he was a warrior through and through.
Just thinking about battle made him want to go to his private dojo and practice his swordsmanship. He glanced over his shoulder at the pile of paperwork in contemplation. It was probably best to get more work done, but he feared he would be unable to concentrate sufficiently. Try as he might, he could not get the miko out of his mind. She drove him to distraction, and she wasn't even here to lay the blame on! Even now his body ached to reduce the distance between them, to hold her in his arms and have her scent surround him. It wasn't just desire that compelled him—though he wanted nothing more than to sink inside her hot, moist flesh—but he also missed being with her, to feel her presence, to see her, converse with her…
Started at the realization, he blinked.
He missed her? How could he when he'd just met her?! They hardly knew each other except for an exchange of names and that he was a demon lord and she a traveling miko. Now that he realized his lack of knowledge concerning her past, Sesshomaru actually wanted to know more about her. Not because he was suspicious or to take advantage of the knowledge at a later date, but because he was genuinely curious about her.
Then came the thought if she was thinking about him as well. Was she even now missing him, too? Was he always on her mind as she was always on his? Did she wish to learn more about him out of genuine curiosity and no ulterior motive?
Then he frowned.
He shouldn't care what she thought of him. What nonsense was he contemplating? Aggravated not for the first time this day, he turned sharply away from his window and marched out of his study. Right now, he was in no mood to tackle more paperwork. Instead, he motioned a servant to him and crisply ordered the man to locate his general and have him met him at his private dojo. With a bow, his order was acknowledged, and Sesshomaru made his way towards his dojo where he planned to lose himself in mock combat. Hopefully then he would be able to have a couple hours of blissful reprieve of thoughts concerning the miko.