Hi everyone. Glad to see that so many liked the mid-week update. Most of you are anxiously awaiting this weeks update since Sesshomaru and Inuyasha are going to finally be meeting face to face. I hope it doesn't disappoint. Some of you don't seem to like Kitanya much, but I hope she's a character that will grow on you. She's not as weak as she seems (at least, not in my eyes). I also appreciated some of the reviews regarding the paragraph regarding Inuyasha's dealings with "Death".
My brain is so scattered tonight that it will be a minor miracle if I get this loaded properly. Since that is the case, I'll stop with the chit-chat and get straight to it. This is one of the longer chapters, so I hope you all enjoy that. Oh . . . almost forgot to thank those reviewers that pointed out that I've been using the wrong spelling of "vile" (using vial instead). Thanks so much for that. I'll try and correct it in the future :-)
Chapter 8 . . .
Sesshomaru didn't need to be told twice and immediately began striding across the field, his footfalls silent and to all outward appearances, his manner one of aloof ease. Behind him, he could hear the soft tinkling of Miroku's staff indicating the monk had taken it upon himself to follow. To his left, a sleek hawk youkai mirrored his movements. The name of the hawk youkai was of little importance for it would not be him they would soon be speaking with, but the Lord of the East himself, Bellial.
Without thought, Sesshomaru placed himself between the hanyou and the dominant bear youkai Inuyasha was most likely to do battle with. Discretely tilting his head to the side, Sesshomaru breathed in the intoxicating scent that the InuHanyou always seemed to be radiating. Having not had the opportunity of being this close before, he was pleased to learn that rather than overwhelming, the scent was simply more enjoyable from this close proximity.
Feeling his youkai settle a little, Sesshomaru was able to relax slightly but being this close was far too great of a temptation to resist entirely. Ever so gently, Sesshomaru moved mokomoko, allowing just the slightest touch of fur against the hanyou's hand. Reflexively, Inuyasha's skin shivered as flushed warmth spread into the half-breed's cheeks. Sesshomaru was even more pleased when Inuyasha did not pull away, but instead he felt the softest of pressure as the hanyou's clawed fingers gingerly dug a little deeper into the depths of his fur.
A little lost in the sensation, Sesshomaru barely heard the moderator as he summed up the conversation they had not been privy to. Reluctantly pulling mokomoko back, Sesshomaru forced his attention to focus.
"Representative of the East, I request an audience with the Lord of the Eastern Lands."
Eyes going pitch black as his pupils blew wide, the hawk youkai opened his mouth to speak, but it looked no more than a puppet with someone else controlling the strings. "I am Lord Bellial of the Eastern Lands. It appears as if we have a bit of interesting mischief at this year's Gathering."
Bowing slightly at the waist, the moderator indicated his respect. "You have heard and understood the situation, my Lord?"
Turning his head, the hawk youkai's black eyes looked once at Jakotem and then at Kitanya. "I have heard and understand, however, one must wonder as to the circumstances that would lead one of Lady Kitanya's character to request such a thing."
Vaguely, Sesshomaru saw Jakotem stiffen at Lord Bellial's words, but there was little else in the way of response.
"The hanyou has agreed to the request and waived his rights as a submissive breeder. Does the Lord of the East have any objections?"
Endless black orbs settling in on Inuyasha, the hawk youkai was silent for a moment before finally shaking his head. "No, the Lord of the East has no objections. Prince Sesshomaru, what says the West?"
"If it is the will of the InuHanyou, the West does not object."
Beside Inuyasha, Kouga stood a little stunned. He wasn't sure what he'd expected Sesshomaru to say, but somehow, that wasn't it. There was no sly comment about Inuyasha's half-breed status, no questioning the validity that the hanyou really was from the Western Lands, no real dissent at all. In fact, whether he knew it or not, Sesshomaru had given the best, most respectful response he could have by stating, 'If it is the will of the hanyou'.
Unlike Kouga, Jakotem wasn't just stunned, but appalled and insulted. He could not believe he was being reduced to something like this – that he had to fight something as inferior as this half-breed.
Content with the answers, the moderator stated, "If there are no further objections – "
"Like hell there aren't!" Jakotem snarled. Pointing a brutish, clawed hand in Inuyasha's direction, the dominant bear sneered, "You insult me to suggest I must battle such a pathetic creature. This thing isn't even a youkai."
Lips pulled back in a growl, Kouga was ready to rend flesh from bones when his mouth clamped shut, Sesshomaru's calm, cold voice falling onto the field. "This Sesshomaru is beginning to believe there are other reasons you do not wish to fight the hanyou." Turning to the hawk youkai, Sesshomaru addressed the Lord of the East. "It appears as if the bear tribe is in need of greater leadership."
Going from irritated to pissed, Jakotem shouted, "He's just a no account submissive. What guarantee do I have that he won't cower in fear, turn tail and run when he realizes he's about to die."
Finally worked up, Inuyasha's lips pulled back in a hiss. "That's the second time you've questioned my word, asshole."
Leaning back, Jakotem crossed his massive arms over his chest, his eyes taunting. "And just why should I take the word of a half-breed? I'm not about to go into a fight with such an unworthy opponent, it would be a waste of both time and energy."
Kouga raised a fist. "You overgrown pile of – "
"Jakotem," Sesshomaru's deathly even voice stopped Kouga mid-rant. "Is it this Sesshomaru's understanding that the main objection you have to this confrontation is that you believe the hanyou's skills and character are not as great as your own, that you believe the battle would prove to be unsatisfying?"
As foolish as he was, Jakotem still felt a shiver of fear inch its way up his spine at the utter lack of emotion in Prince Sesshomaru's words. Arms lowering, the bear dominant gave a hesitant nod. "Yeah, that about sums it up. No youkai of my standing would ever agree to fight such a disgraceful battle."
Face passive, Miroku stared between Jakotem and Sesshomaru, a small smile beginning to take root at what he expected next. Thankfully, the Heir of the West did not disappoint.
"If that is the case, then might I allay your fears. Should the hanyou prove disappointing in battle or, as you say, run away . . . then this Sesshomaru would be more than willing to take Inuyasha's place."
While Jakotem paled, Inuyasha turned livid. "Hey, jackass, I don't need you steppin' in with nothin'. I'm more than capable of takin' care of this prick."
Finally turning the full weight of his attention on the hanyou, Sesshomaru's golden eyes stared, his senses taking in everything. "This Sesshomaru is looking forward to seeing you prove such a statement. I only seek to sooth this bear youkai's concerns."
Flushing a deep scarlet, Inuyasha couldn't look away, nor could he stop his nose from pulling in one delicious breath after another. Gods above, the hanyou thought Sesshomaru smelled better than the juiciest slice of meat roasting on a fire. At the thought of food, Inuyasha's stomach gave a desperate growl of hunger.
Frowning at the noise, Sesshomaru didn't like the thought that the half-breed was in such a state of want, especially with the coming battle. Hunger could sharpen or dull the senses depending upon how great the need. "You require sustenance. When the battle is through, I shall bring you food." Looking towards the wolf, Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed. "I had assumed the wolf was seeing to such needs."
Offended in his own right, Kouga defended himself. "Now wait just a damn minute! It's not like I didn't offer, but the mutt is so gods be damned stubborn, he –"
Embarrassed from the tips of his ears to the ends of his clawed toes, Inuyasha erupted. "I don't need help from dogbreath and I sure as shit don't need it from some stuck up youkai prince."
Never before in his life had anyone dared talk to him in such a way and had it been anyone else, Sesshomaru would have cleanly separated their head from their neck. And yet, looking down at the fuming hanyou with his absurdly twitching puppydog ears, Sesshomaru couldn't muster anything more than amusement. And nothing ever amused him.
Ignoring the rant, Sesshomaru merely stated, "It is decided. When this battle is finished, you will be fed."
"Decided! We haven't decided shit, I – "
Laying a hand on the hanyou's shoulder, Miroku's smile was broad enough that his eyes crinkled closed in response. "Perhaps this could be decided at a later date. For now, I believe Jakotem is in need of . . . well, I'm really not sure what at the moment."
Mind reeling, Jakotem barely paid attention to anything that happened after hearing that Sesshomaru was offering to take the hanyou's place. He'd thought he'd been so clever, weaving together a string of reasons why this battle was beneath him but instead, he'd done nothing more than back himself into a corner. He would never be able to refuse now, if he did, all would think him a coward and he'd loose all standing. Eyes narrowed and full of hate, Jakotem vowed that he would make Kitanya pay and pay dearly for this, and not only her, but that worthless half-breed as well.
As quiet descended once more, Jakotem realized they were all awaiting his answer, but if he was going to have to do this, then by the gods, he was going to get more out of it than a mating with that worthless Kitanya. "Fine, Kitanya can have the hanyou as her Champion, but if I win, the hanyou is mine."
Shaking his head, the moderator answered, "That is not within the rules of this battle."
"Neither is having a submissive fight in a dominant battle," Jakotem replied, the sneer on his face full of vicious malice. "If I'm agreeing to the given terms, then the hanyou has to agree to become mine." Eyes raking up and down Inuyasha's figure with lecherous intent, Jakotem added, "He's not too bad on the eyes, stinks like a half-breed, but I still think I could manage to get it up and fuck him. If Kitanya turns out not to be a good breeder, then I can always use him to get what I want."
Kitanaya was mortified. "That is disgraceful!"
Turning on the bear submissive, Jakotem pointed a finger in her direction. "No more disgraceful than forcing me to fight with this half-breed."
Sucking in a deep breath, Inuyasha brutally squashed his growing fear. Becoming nothing more than a breeder to some jerk-off like Jakotem struck at the heart of one of his greatest horrors. Beside him, Inuyasha could feel Kouga's muscles pull tight with anger, his friend's voice ripe with his growing ire. "I knew you were scum, but you are lower than the lowest youkai I've ever met."
Miroku barely kept an ear open to what was being said, his eyes carefully watching the InuYoukai beside him, knowing that Jakotem had most likely just ended his own pathetic life with those words. Unlike those around him, Miroku knew Sesshomaru and could read the Heir of the West's body language and right now, that language said Sesshomaru was fighting for calm. Standing as still as granite, not even the wind touched the InuYoukai's skin for Sesshomaru's angered youkai was boiling over his alabaster flesh.
Most likely, only a few seconds passed before Sesshomaru controlled his youkai enough to pull its power back inside himself and Miroku relaxed a fraction of an inch when he saw the edges of mokomoko bend with the breeze. With slaughter at least delayed, Miroku turned his attention back to the field in time to see Kitanya come forward, her brown eyes pleading as she begged the hanyou to back down. "Please, it is not worth this kind of risk. I would never have asked such a thing if I had known this would be a possibility. I would never condemn you to the kind of life I am facing."
But Inuyasha only shook his head, a small smile curling his lips. "And here I thought you believed in me."
Taken slightly aback, Kitanya's large brown eyes were rimmed in tears. "It isn't that, it's just . . . this is too big of a risk, if you lost, I – "
"Hey, stop bein' all negative. Like I'd ever loose to this jackass."
"Inuyasha?"
"Worryin' never accomplished anything so just sit back and relax. I don't plan on givin' up so don't you give up on me, okay."
Sucking in a deep breath, Kitanya gave a watery smile before nodding her head. "If you're certain."
"-Keh, as certain as I ever am about anything." Taking two steps forward, Inuyasha looked at the moderator before staring up at Jakotem. "I accept the terms, as repulsive as they are."
Whispering a quiet, "Fuck," Kouga could only shake his head. There was no way in hell he was going to let this happen, death on the line was one thing, but becoming a breeder to . . . that, no way in fucking hell. Opening his mouth, Kouga was about ready to do, most likely something very stupid, when he felt the weight of Miroku's hand on his shoulder accompanied by a quiet, "Wait."
Before he knew it, Kouga found they had all moved back towards the edge of the arena, leaving Inuyasha, Jakotem and the moderator where they were. Opening his mouth, Kouga was once more silenced by Miroku's single answer of, "Wait."
Smiling, Miroku was pleased when he heard Sesshomaru's deathly quiet voice speaking with the hawk youkai and thus to the Lord of the East himself. Inclining his head in the InuYoukai's direction the monk quietly added, "Listen."
"Lord Bellial, should the hanyou fail, do you object to this Sesshomaru killing Jakotem?"
Kouga watched as the dainty hawk youkai snorted in amusement. "And if I said, yes?"
"I would hate to break so many years of peace between our Lands."
Head tilted to the side, the hawk youkai's black eyes narrowed in observation and thought. "The half-breed is this important?"
The silence that met his question was answer enough and caused a wide grin to appear upon the hawk youkai's face. "I should not be surprised. You have never cared for beauty or breeding. To some, this would seem an odd choice, but I believe he suites you and that Lord Inu no Taisho shall be pleased." Staring back out onto the field, Bellial's voice was cold with disdain. "Jakotem's death would be no great loss. Truth be told, you killing him would most likely save me the trouble." With a final nod of his head, the Lord of the East gave his consent. "You may do with Jakotem as you will, however, I suspect your intervention shall be unneeded. For a half-breed, the InuHanyou appears formidable. Jakotem is twice the fool."
Listening, Kouga wasn't certain he understood exactly what was going on, but he at least understood one thing, even if Inuyasha lost, he'd never have to suffer at the hands of Jakotem. But, did that mean Inuyasha would belong to Sesshomaru? And if so, would that really be any better for his friend?
Witnessing the emotional barrage flaring across Kouga's face, Miroku could only guess at the thought's going through the wolf prince's mind. "You do not appear to have nearly the faith in Inuyasha that he had in you when you fought your battle for the Lady Ayame."
Pulled from his musings, Kouga looked properly offended. "Muttface can take down that asshole, I ain't got not worries there."
Cocking his head to the side, Miroku's eyebrows lifted in disbelief. "And yet, you do not look that confident."
Digging his clawed toes into the ground, Kouga's blue eyes stared out onto the field. Inuyasha had a good chance, a damn good chance, but it was true, he was still worried. "He'll win, because he has to. But most likely, it ain't gonna be pretty. The mutt can take a lot of damage, a hell of a lot, it's just . . . gods above, that kid just can't seem to catch a break. He shouldn't have to get the shit beat outta him, not for somethin' like this."
"Ah, I see then." Loosening his grip on his staff, Miroku listened as the moderator explained the battle as well as the terms agreed upon to the surrounding youkai, pleased when most reacted with disgust at the part where the hanyou would become Jakotem's un-willful slave and potential breeder.
Stomping a foot into the soft soil, Kouga gave a soft growl. "Sometimes I just wish he wasn't so damn noble."
Smile soft and knowing, Miroku could only shake his head and answer, "Then Inuyasha would not be Inuyasha."
Scratching the back of an ear, Kouga looked up and across the field to the rest of the wolves, easily catching Ayame's eye as well as her supportive smile. Silently, he watched his intended mate confidently nod her head before looking in Inuyasha's direction. Chuckling softly, Kouga sucked in a deep breath before shouting, "Kick his worthless ass, Inuyasha!"
Hearing the ear-shattering scream, Sesshomaru only just managed not to flinch and yet, he found he could not disagree with the general sentiment. Angered, the Heir of the West was currently more curious than outraged. He'd wanted to know the true skill of the hanyou and despite the less than desirable way it was happening, Sesshomaru couldn't deny that he was intrigued to see just what the half-breed was capable of. To his satisfaction, the hanyou did not disappoint.
::::::::::
Ignorant of the conversation between Sesshomaru and the Lord of the East, Inuyasha only knew that, more than any fight before, he had to win this one. A life spent at the whims of a youkai like Jakotem would be far worse than death.
"You have both agreed to the terms and conditions discussed earlier," the moderator announced. "Your agreements are binding and cannot be changed now or during any moment within the coming battle. I shall decide the winner, or in the event one of you is killed, the one still alive shall be winner by default."
Hearing the words, Inuyasha nodded, his amber eyes fixed while his muscles tensed in anticipation.
"Once I give the word, you may begin." Having nothing further to say, the moderator began making his way off the field, leaving a seemingly fragile InuHanyou alone to battle a muscle-bound dominant bear youkai.
With the moderator fading into the distance, Jakotem's lips curled back, his face turning into something vile. "Don't worry, little half-breed, I'm not going to kill you, at least, not today. No, I think you'll have a long, painful life. I plan on using your body, maybe I'll even do it during meetings or in front of visiting youkai just to show them what happens to those that oppose me. We'll find out just how fertile you are."
As quickly as he could, Inuyasha boxed up the fear piercing his chest. "You gotta win first, and I guarantee that ain't happenin' today, jackass."
"I'll be sure to beat that cockiness out of you soon."
"Better youkai than you've tried and failed," Inuyasha smirked.
Jakotem pulled back his lips, ready to retort when that annoying wolf's voice floated over the field, making the bear snarl and Inuyasha smirk. "Well, I'd hate to disappoint dogbreath." No more had those words passed through the hanyou's lips than both he and Jakotem heard the moderator's voice say, "Begin."
Within an instant, Inuyasha was body slammed by Jakotem, easily sending the hanyou flying and the bear cackling with glee. "That all you got, half-breed."
Wiping a small bead of blood from his split lip, Inuyasha smiled and whispered a hate filled, "Hardly," before charging forward.
Silently watching from the sidelines, Sesshomaru took in every move, his observant, calculating eyes missing nothing. To be certain, the hanyou's fighting style was, at best crude. But interestingly enough, it was Inuyasha's completely unorthedoxed patterns that were one of his greatest strengths. Given the hanyou's size, most would have put him at a disadvantage and that was true when Jakotem was actually able to get in a direct hit, but those instances were rare. Light on his feet, Inuyasha weaved in and around Jakotem, his attacks seemingly random and yet deceptively deliberate. Claws just as sharp as any pureblooded youkai, the hanyou struck where it would do the most damage, both to muscle and blood supply. As Sesshomaru watched, it was clear Inuyasha had a simple, yet effective two way attack – should he not be able to bring Jakotem down forcefully, then given enough time, the bear would wind up bleeding out. All Inuyasha had to do was have enough stamina to outlast Jakotem; something Sesshomaru was becoming increasingly convinced was possible.
Whistling low, Miroku smiled. "He certainly is persistent."
Kouga gave a grunt. "Ya got no idea." Shaking his head, the wolf frowned. "Even as a half-breed, Inuyasha's stronger than most pure youkai I've faced. But as much as I detest Jakotem, there's a reason he's been able to gain the support of the bear youkai and it ain't because of his brains. I know what the mutt's capable of and to win this fight, he's gonna have to work for it. It's gonna be slow and bloody."
"But in the end?"
"Inuyasha'll be the one left standin'. The mutt's used to this kind of thing and Jakotem ain't. Chances are pretty good that asshole has won his fights quick and painless seein' how he's more brawn than brain. He's never fought anyone like Inuyasha and you can already see how frustrated Jakotem's gettin'. He can't figure out how or why the mutt keeps gettin' back up when he manages to land a direct hit. Most likely he's been able to take down his opponents when just one of those damned things made contact."
Silently listening to the conversation, Sesshomaru could see the validity of the wolf's words. Frustrated and weakening, Jakotem's attacks were increasingly desperate and ill planned. In the end, the bear was becoming his own worst enemy and wasting precious energy when there was little to spare. Unfortunately, what was just as true was the hanyou's condition. To get close enough to actually land a blow, Inuyasha risked getting hit and although he was quick, the bear appeared to be getting lucky enough to inflict a fair amount of damage. It was clear Inuyasha's speed was diminishing, but his determination seemed to have only increased. The hanyou would indeed be the victor, but the cost would be high.
Having been silent throughout, Kouga was surprised when he heard Sesshomaru ask, "You have battled the hanyou on multiple occasions?"
Refusing to take his eyes from the field, Kouga nodded and answered a quick, "Yeah, what of it?"
"Is this Sesshomaru to believe you have seen Inuyasha injured then?"
Taking a quick glance over, Kouga's mind automatically began skimming through images of a broken and bleeding Inuyasha, his worst injuries having little to nothing to do with their spars. "I've seen him pretty bad, although that wasn't caused by me. Just what is it you want to know?"
"Being a half-breed, I was merely questioning his ability to heal."
Kouga could only scoff. "He'll heal just fine. He might take a little longer than us, but you won't hear him complain about it." Hands on hips, Kouga's tail switched back and forth in irritation. "Damn mutt would let himself bleed to death before he'd ask anybody to put pressure on the wound."
"In the future, such actions will be both unnecessary and unacceptable."
Head tilting to the side, Kouga kept his gaze on the battle, but his eyes narrowed with suspicion. "Just what are you planin', Sesshomaru?"
"You address one of my station far too casually, wolf and this Sesshomaru's intentions are his own."
Growling low, Kouga was about to do something immensely stupid when Miroku casually pushed his staff forward, its trajectory placing it strategically between the two youkai. "It appears as if the moderator is about to make his ruling."
Pissed that he'd let himself get distracted, Kouga let out a huff before turning his attention back on the field. In an instant, the wolf's anger was forgotten, replaced with satisfied joy. At the southern end of the field, Jakotem laid sprawled out on his back, his own weight pinning both arms at awkward angles beneath his large form. Leaning over, silvery-white strands of hair streaked in crimson, one of Inuyasha's clawed hands encircled the massive bear youkai's neck, the other hand pulled back, his red tipped claws poised to slice through Jakotem's jugular.
Grin wild and proud, Kouga hooted a, "Fuck yeah!" into the air.
::::::::::
Panting and heaving, Inuyasha felt the burn of every breath as it was pulled through his aching chest. Bloodied and bruised, he figured there were probably more than a few cracked, if not broken, ribs rattling around, but it was nothing he couldn't heal from, eventually. He'd be sore as fuck for a while, but it would be more than worth it. Hell, even with his body screaming in pain, it was already worth it to be able to look down on Jakotem's beaten body.
Lost to his own thoughts, the hanyou missed the moderator's approach until he heard the calm and even voice. "Inuyasha, chosen Champion of the Lady Kitanya of the Eastern Bear Tribe, I find you the victor of this battle. Jakotem's life is at your disposal, should you wish it terminated, the law of the Gathering gives you the right to do so."
Painful as it was, Inuyasha forced the words through his throat. "N-no mat-ter what . . . K-Kitanya . . . she don't g-got to mate him?"
"Alive or dead, Jakotem no longer has any mating rights to the Lady Kitanya."
"-Keh, he ain't worth k-killin'." Satisfied, Inuyasha backed off, barely managing not to stumble as he climbed down from the mountain known as Jakotem's chest.
With Inuyasha's weight removed, Jakotem drew in a desperate breath. Exhausted and broken, the bear youkai couldn't believe what had just happened – what he had allowed to happen. "W-wait j-j-just a damn . . . minute."
Looking down, Inuyasha's eyes narrowed as he straightened. "There's nothin' to wait on. You lost, get over it."
Rolling over, Jakotem managed to get his arms under him, pushing his body up, ready to protest further. Raising his head, the bear found his eyes staring at the ankles of the moderator. "Jakotem, the outcome of this battle has already been decided. Words are no longer necessary as your actions have already spoken for you." Turning his back, the moderator effectively dismissed Jakotem as he called, "Lady Kitanya, come forward."
Face awash in relief and unbelievable joy, Kitanya ran forward, her heart lighter than it had been in years. Feet sliding to a stop, Kitanya bowed low to first the moderator and then Inuyasha. "I willingly accept the outcome of this battle." Going down on her knees, the bear submissive prostrated herself in front of the hanyou, her nose kissing the ground as she stated, "The hanyou, Inuyasha has my eternal gratitude and as per the rules of the Reckoning, my servitude as well."
Stunned, Inuyasha's mouth gaped open. "S-servitude? I don't . . . what the fuck are you talkin' about? I just beat this guy so you can make your own decisions, not so . . . not for this."
Infuriated eyes glistening with hate, Jakotem stared at the scene before him. All of them, they were all ignoring him! And Kitanya, that damn female had done nothing but look down on him all his life, always thinking she was better than him and now . . . now she had the gall to prostrate herself, to go down upon her knees in front of that half-breed. How dare she embarrass him like this!
Hate. All consuming hate swam through Jakotem's blood like a living thing. In the dominant bear's mind, nothing existed but the need to eradicate – to utterly destroy. Eyes a blazing red, Jakotem found just enough energy to force himself to his knees, finally raising to the balls of his feet before launching his body forward, arm extended and razor sharp claws at the ready.
Feeling the explosion of youkai energy behind him, Inuyasha turned in time to see the absolute fury in Jakotem's eyes before the bear lunged to strike, not at him, but the kneeling Kitanya. Without thought of the consequences, the hanyou threw his body forward and over the smaller bear, shielding her from attack at the cost of his own life. Breathless and waiting for the inevitable pain, Inuyasha reflexively gripped Kitanya closer and tighter when an even larger, oppressive wave of youkai energy flooded his senses.
Heaving for breath, Inuyasha waited, his body an aching wound from the previous battle and yet, all around him, there was nothing but silence broken by an audible crack and deep wail splitting the fading day. Finally daring to look up, Inuyasha was stunned to silence.
White and gleaming in the fading light, Sesshomaru stood, the silvery-white strands of his hair billowing around his body as the Heir of the West's powerful youkai swirled around him. Twitching back and forth in fury, mokomoko lashed about the InuYoukai's legs and beyond that, laid Jakotem. In one deceptively delicate hand, Sesshomaru gripped Jakotem's arm, the appendage bent in the wrong direction, the bone shattered. Body crumpled in on itself, the bear youkai hung suspended from that grip, his face one of incomparable agony.
Fighting the fine tremors assaulting his body, Inuyasha stayed rooted to his spot, his ears perking to attention when he heard Sesshomaru's cold, calm voice ask, "Inuyasha, are you unharmed?"
Figuring the InuYoukai was asking more about what just happened than the injuries he'd sustained within the battle, Inuyasha answered, "I'm okay." Releasing his firm grip upon the bear submissive, the hanyou questioned, "How 'bout you, Kitanya?"
Voice quiet but steady, Kitanya answered, "I am unharmed, master, thank you."
Ignoring the title for now, Inuyasha stood, his body sore and exhausted from the previous fight and what had just happened. "We're okay. I can handle him from here."
Sesshomaru only replied, "That will not be necessary."
"Listen, I don't need – "
"You have completed your part in the Reckoning with honor and dignity, hanyou. The filth lying within my hand is no longer your concern." Head turning slightly to the side, Sesshomaru looked past the hanyou to the hawk youkai from before. "Lord Bellial, disposal of this bear youkai is beneath this Sesshomaru, but should you wish it, his life shall be extinguished."
"Fuck, he ain't below me," Kouga growled. "If you don't wanna get your hands dirty, I'll be glad to oblige." Throwing out a leg, Kouga's foot landed solidly on Jakotem's abdomen, increasing the pressure Sesshomaru still had on the bear's broken arm. "Lousy piece of filth. You're nothin' but a disgrace."
Inuyasha had been so intent on Sesshomaru that he'd missed everyone else. Blinking once, it was clear to see that at some point, Kouga had come out and was now snarling murderously at Jakotem. Turning his head, to the right and slightly behind him, Miroku stood, his hand firmly gripping his staff and looking far too much like he was protecting the hanyou's backside.
To his left, the hawk youkai from before stepped forward, his narrowed black eyes staring dismissively down on Jakotem's writhing form. Face twisted with disgust, the Lord of the East held nothing but contempt. "My disappointment with the bear youkai tribe is only eclipsed by the disappointment I have in myself. It is evident I have been far too lenient with those within my lands." Eyes focusing in on Sesshomaru, Lord Bellial gave his answer. "Neither you nor the wolf need dirty your hands with such undeserving blood. Jakotem will be taken back into our lands." Giving a spine-chilling smile, Lord Bellial added, "I believe I would like some time to contemplate a punishment befitting Jakotem's behavior. It has been years since I've had an opportunity to be this. . . creative."
Given the Lord of the East's response, Sesshomaru opened his hand, releasing Jakotem, the bear youkai slumping to the ground in shame and pain. "If that is your wish."
"It is." Turning his attention to Kitanya, the hawk youkai gave a discrete bow. "Lady Kitanya, it is shameful that you needed to take such actions in order to bring to light the failures within your tribe. It is with sadness and regret that I release you from my rule and into the hands of the hanyou and consequently the Western Lands. May you find peace and purpose in your new life."
Bending low at the waist, Kitanya gave her respect. "Thank you, Lord Bellial."
Still not fully understanding what was going on, Inuyasha looked quizzically between the two. "Listen, I ain't nobody's master. I didn't do this for that reason and I sure as hell don't need some youkai bowin' down to me."
Reaching forward, Kitanya gripped the hanyou's hands within her own. Gently turning his bruised and bloodied fingers, she noted a few broken claws as well. Applying the barest of pressures, Kitanya turned large, appreciative eyes up at the hanyou. "I never expected you to wish or desire such a thing, nor did I think you agreed to earn my servitude, but that does not change the fact that you have it. I am bound to you, Inuyasha, and I have not felt this much pride about being connected to another in a long time. In whatever capacity I can be of service to you, I shall stay by your side, for you have saved my life and in so doing, now hold it within the palms of these hands."
Fighting Jakotem hadn't been nearly as frightening as what Kitanya was saying. Swallowing hard, Inuyasha could only shake his head. "You don't wanna follow me around, trust me on that. I don't even have a home, I – "
Placing a finger across the hanyou's lips, Kitanya only smiled. "My home is now with you. Whatever fate that lies with you is a far better one than I would have had with Jakotem."
Knowing Inuyasha's fears, Kouga came up and slapped the hanyou on the back, earning a barely contained grunt for his efforts. "She's right so stop thinkin' about it, at least for tonight. You should be celebratin' right about now, not lookin' like you're about ready to puke up your guts."
"For once, Kouga's right, Inuyasha." Looking up, Inuyasha blinked as Ayame moved closer. When the she-wolf had walked onto the field, he hadn't a clue. Cocking her head to the side, Ayame indicated a direction off the main field. "They still have time for a couple more presentations, boys. I think it's time we took this show off the main arena."
Smiling and nodding at Ayame, Kitanya couldn't agree more. "Indeed, I believe you are right. Plus, master Inuyasha is wounded and needs rest to recover."
Eyes wide and appalled, Inuyasha gaped, "What the . . . I don't need you worrin' about shit like that. I'm more than capable if takin' care of myself. Besides, this ain't even close to the worst I've ever had, so – "
Ignoring the rant completely, Kitanya looked to Sesshomaru. "Prince Sesshomaru, if I may be so bold as to ask, earlier I believe I heard a discussion between you and master Inuyasha regarding his lack of sustenance. I believe you mentioned something about being able to obtain food. If that is the case, I would like to retrieve this at once so that I might prepare something for him to eat."
"I already told him I don't need – "
Acting as if the hanyou wasn't even speaking, Sesshomaru began moving off the field, just as Ayame had suggested, the rest of the group following. "If you would like to begin seeing to the hanyou's wounds, I shall procure the necessary items and find you."
Blindly walking forward, Inuyasha couldn't believe what was happening, or how it had happened. It was as if his opinion on the matter meant nothing, his words little more than a waste of energy.
Now off the field, the group came to a halt, Kitanya giving another bow towards the Prince of the West. "Your assistance is much appreciated."
Nodding, Sesshomaru found the situation with Kitanya most advantageous. As another submissive, he had little to worry about with her being so close to Inuyasha. And, given the role he was planning for the hanyou, Kitanya's presence and loyalty would be doubly valuable. It was clear Inuyasha had no experience with nobility or court life. With the exception of the wolf, most likely, the hanyou had lived a life devoid of almost all social interaction with youkai. As Princess of the Eastern Bear Tribe, Kitanya could be expected to know youkai practices and her assistance would no doubt prove useful. The fact that the bear submissive was so indebted and bound to the hanyou was also . . . convenient.
Tired of being ignored, Inuyasha decided that if they really weren't going to listen to him, then there was no point hanging around. Tired, wounded, and fed-up, he mumbled a quiet, "Whatever," before turning to leave. He'd no more than raised a foot to take a step when he felt a firm but gentle hand touch his shoulder, effectively turning his body back around.
Head turned toward the slender fingers touching his shoulder, Inuyasha watched, wide-eyed as that hand slid up his neck, finally reaching his chin and raising his head. Soon, the hanyou felt his eyes captured by the shimmering gold of the Western Prince. Sucking in a deep breath, Inuyasha barely contained the whine of pleasure brought by the intoxicatingly protective scent radiating off the being before him. Blinking once, Inuyasha couldn't deny the beauty before him, that beauty made all the more breathtaking by the power it contained.
Eyes scrutinizing, Sesshomaru looked over each and every visible cut and bruise, silently wondering as to the extent of the hanyou's unseen injuries. "The wolf has informed me that despite being a half-breed, you heal well. Is this true?"
And just like with the moderator, when Sesshomaru called him a half-breed, the term seemed more of a definition than insult. Swallowing the dry lump in his throat, Inuyasha tried to nod but found the motion impossible with the InuYoukai's hand still holding his chin. Clearing his throat once, he finally managed a quiet, "Yeah, I heal okay."
Moving his thumb, Sesshomaru's sharp claw raked whisper-soft against Inuyasha's bruised skin. "I trust there is nothing life-threatening then?"
"No, nothin' that bad."
Eyes drifting up, Sesshomaru watched Inuyasha's puppydog ears twitch with obvious nervousness. It was interesting that the one thing that screamed the hanyou's mixed heritage was so intriguing, those furry appendages completely captivated his thoughts. Stopping himself from touching those ears, Sesshomaru brought his eyes back down to the hanyou. "You did well today and brought honor to the InuYoukai and Western Lands. This Sesshomaru is very pleased."
Face flushed, Inuyasha finally managed to pull his head away, immediately shifting his face so his bangs covered his eyes. "-Keh, I didn't do any of that for any pure-ass InuYoukai or the West. Hell, until today, I didn't even know I lived in the Western Lands."
Pulling his hand back, Sesshomaru's face betrayed none of his internal emotions. "Be that as it may, the outcome is the same and my statement remains valid." It took everything in Sesshomaru to turn from the hanyou, but he did it all the same. Looking to the hawk youkai and thus the Lord of the East, Sesshomaru gave a shallow bow. "Lord Bellial, this Sesshomaru has things he must attend to."
Looking back to the hanyou, Lord Bellial smiled. "It is understandable. May I be one of the first to wish you well in your future. Please give my regards to Lord Inu no Taisho."
Tilting his head down ever so slightly, Sesshomaru gave his thanks. "I will inform my father of your regards." With nothing further, the Heir of the West began walking away, mokomoko swaying gently behind him.
With a quick wave and short, "Goodbye, my friends," Miroku was soon taking off as well, leaving two wolves, one bear and one hanyou behind. Still blindly staring at Sesshomaru's retreating back, Inuyasha didn't see the look of deep contemplation pulling at Kouga's lips nor did he see when Ayame grabbed Kouga's hand and squeezed it, pulling the wolf out of his thoughts.
Staring into Ayame's eyes, Kouga was amazed at how much his mate to be could communicate without speaking a single word. Understanding, Kouga squeezed her hand in reply, whispering a quiet, "'Kay, I got it," before plastering a goofy grin on his face and elbowing Inuyasha in the side. "Well, mutt, thanks for not embarassin' me too much out there."
Turning, Inuyasha wanted to smack that cocky grin off Kouga's face, but turning so quickly had been stupid given the state of his body and instead of spouting off his displeasure, the hanyou clenched his fists against the stabbing pain jolting his body.
Seeing the grimace, Kouga frowned. The mutt had to be in a lot of pain to let something like that slip. "I think it's time for you to rest and heal up."
"I don't need you tellin' me what to do," Inuyasha panted through the ache in his chest.
"Stop bein' so damn stubborn. Gods above, one of these days you really are gonna die simply because you wouldn't listen to your own damn body."
"If I'd listened every time my body told me to take a break, I'd of died decades ago."
At this, Kouga could only sigh in understanding. "I'll concede that point, but right now, the threat's over and it's time to give your body what it wants." Looking to Kitanya, Kouga hooked a thumb in the hanyou's direction. "I don't envy your task, he's a stubborn fool."
Beside him, Ayame snorted. "No wonder the two of you get along so well."
"Hey – "
Whatever Kouga was going to say was interrupted by Kitanya's soft laughter. "Thank you for your concern, Prince Kouga. I will take your words into account and serve as well as I may be allowed."
Nodding once, Kouga looked to Inuyasha and gave a crooked grin, one fang glinting. "In all seriousness, mutt, you did good."
Blushing to the tips of his puppydog ears, Inuyasha watched as Ayame gave him a respectful nod of her head before pulling Kouga away and toward the wolf encampment, leaving him not as alone as he would have liked to have been. He needed to figure out what he was going to do with Kitanya. More mindful of his wounds, Inuyasha just turned his head this time, his eyes narrowed and lips pulled into a deep scowl. "We'll be discussin' this whole servant thing."
But Kitanya only shook her head. "To deny me this would shame me. If you turn me away, none will have me. Is that what you wish?" She'd only known the hanyou for a short time, but Kitanya was nothing if not a quick learner.
And just as she'd thought, Inuyasha looked righteously appalled by the idea. "N-no, that ain't what I want. Why on earth would you be shunned for me not needin' a servant?"
"Others would believe I was dismissed from your service because I was unable to please you and do my duty properly. Due to the rules of the Gathering and Reckoning, when I asked you to be my Champion, I willingly gave my life to your will. Should you turn me away, it sends a distinct message that you believe my life to be worthless."
"Fuck." Looking down at his toes, Inuyasha was beginning to get the sinking feeling that there was no way of getting out of this. How he was going to provide for Kitanya when he could barely do so for himself, he hadn't a clue. Fingers' squeezing into tight fists, Inuyasha didn't know what he was going to do, but just like everything else in life, he'd have to figure it out. With that thought in mind, the hanyou pulled his head up, his amber eyes firm with conviction. "Okay then, but don't call me master."
Head cocked to the side, Kitanya's glossy brown hair shifted over one shoulder. "Then what may I call you?"
"Just Inuyasha."
Giving a small frown, Kitanya didn't think that sounded nearly respectful enough. "But, that is simply your name with no honorific."
"It's fine. Most youkai, or humans for that matter, don't bother to call me by my name. They just call me . . . well, let's just say they call me a lot of other stuff instead. To me, callin' me by my name is showin' respect. Trust me, it's enough."
Saddened by the words, Kitanya knew she had no way of fully understanding, but if it made him feel better, then she would abide by the hanyou's wishes. "Very well, Inuyasha. Now, is there a particular place you have been staying while here?"
Reaching up, Inuyasha scratched behind a twitching ear. "Not really. I mean, I don't really have a group or tent or somethin'. Mostly I've just been sleepin' up in this big tree . . . "
"If you will lead the way, I will follow where you go."
Heading off, Inuyasha tried keeping his gait as normal as possible, refusing to show any type of pain or weakness. All the while, Kitanya kept an almost constant distance behind him, something he didn't like. "Hey, you don't gotta walk behind me."
"It would not be proper for me to walk at your side, Inuyasha." Hearing the complaint on his lips, Kitanya hastened to add, "I have compromised and agreed to call you Inuyasha instead of master, perhaps you could do the same when it comes to my position?"
Fuck, Kitanya was logical. Practical too. "Whatever," Inuyasha mumbled while continuing forward, his eyes focused on the large tree in the distance, its limbs stretched out toward the sky in a welcoming embrace.
Soon enough they were at the base, the rest of the Gathering encampment distant enough to at least give a semblance of peace. Giving a thankful pat to the trunk, Inuyasha turned his back to the massive tree and slid down, his ribs protesting almost every inch of descent. Once settled, the hanyou took a minute to control his breathing before finally relaxing back.
Squatting down in front of the InuHanyou, Kitanya reached into the folds of her short kimono, pulling out an animal hide used for carrying water. Pushing it forward, she offered the contents to the hanyou, unsurprised when he initially refused.
"You should save that for yourself."
"There are plenty of streams nearby, besides, I have two more where that came from."
Silvery-white eyebrow shooting up, Inuyasha stared more closely at the bear submissive, only now noting a few odd bulges here and there beneath her clothes, things that would easily be overlooked. "What else you got tucked away?"
With an oddly devious smile, Kitanya pulled open the outer layer of her kimono and began pulling things out. By the time she was done, there was a small, empty bag, a change of clothes, a thin fur blanket, three water bottles and a blade. "When I prepared this morning, I did so with the belief that I would not be returning to the bear tribe. I could not bring food or else they would have smelled it and questioned what I was intending."
Eyes traveling over the objects, Inuyasha felt a new wave of pride for the small submissive before him. Kitanya wasn't physically strong. She'd chosen a very dangerous path when she'd asked him to be her Champion. Had he lost, no doubt Jakotem would have made her life a misery. And if he won . . . she was placing her very life in the hands of a half-breed she knew next to nothing about. Given her choices, she'd taken a huge gamble that life could be better. She'd thrown away all she knew to risk uncertainty. She could have stayed where she was – her body safe, but her soul dying. Instead, she'd risked her life for the hope of what could be. No, Kitanya may not be physically strong, but she wasn't weak either.
Blushing a bit, Kitanya began placing the change of clothes in the previously empty bag. Once that was done, she once more pushed one of the water flasks towards the hanyou. "You see, I have plenty."
Throat parched, Inuyasha finally accepted the water and drank half the flask. Nodding his thanks, he handed the bottle back, expecting Kitanya to tie it off but instead, the bear submissive asked him to hold out his hands. Upon doing so, she used the remaining fluid to wash the blood and dirt from them.
With the Hanyou's hands cleaned of Jakotem's blood, Kitanya smiled and looked up. "Are there wounds beneath your clothes that require cleansing?"
Still slightly dumbfounded at the tender treatment he was receiving, Inuyasha shook his head. "Naw, just bruisin'. Jakotem never got a claw into me, he just kept usin' his fists."
"Sounds like him. No finesse even in fighting."
Inuyasha grinned. "Yeah, guess that's a good thing for me."
Pleased by the easy banter, Kitanya looked to the hanyou's firerat robes. "I could clean those for you."
"No need, they clean themselves."
"Truly?" Kitanya asked, her brown eyes wide.
"Yeah, pretty handy. They clean and mend themselves. I was pretty surprised the first time it happened."
Reaching out a clawed hand, Kitanya touched the edge of a crimson sleeve. Between her fingers she could feel the bristly yet soft fur of the firerat. "It is a good thing firerat youkai are so fierce, otherwise they would have been hunted to extinction long ago."
Inuyasha could only grunt in agreement while shifting his weight once more, easing even more pressure off his aching chest. No more had he gotten into position than Miroku came into view, the dimensional youkai carrying a small package wrapped in animal skin.
Rising from her position, Kitanya bowed. "Miroku, it is good to see you again so soon."
Eyes crinkling with his smile, Miroku held out the wrapped package. "As promised, Prince Sesshomaru procured some food for you both."
Pleased, Kitanya received the package, her nose already twitching to the scent of fresh deer meat. "Please express my gratitude to the Prince of the West."
Staff tinkling in the night, Miroku looked down on the resting hanyou. "I trust you will be well enough to attend the final day of the Reckoning tomorrow?"
Inuyasha looked off to the side, his head cast down. "I'll be there when I gotta. Don't see the point in it, but I promised that mangy wolf so I'll be there."
"Wonderful. If you will excuse me, my place tonight is by the Western Heir's side."
Waving a hand, Inuyasha shooed Miroku on his way. "Don't let us keep ya, monk."
"Then I shall take my leave, but not before giving my own congratulations on your battle, Inuyasha."
"Yeah, yeah. Let's not make it into somethin' it wasn't. I just did what I had to, nothin' more."
Miroku gave Kitanya a knowing look, both of them marveling at just how incredibly humble the hanyou was. "Thank you again, Miroku."
Inclining his head, Miroku gave a final farewell before leaving the two in peace.
With the monk leaving, Kitanya eagerly unwrapped the deer meat. She'd been able to tell by the weight that the amount was not insignificant and more than enough for the two of them. Squatting down in front of the hanyou, she held the meat up to him, offering Inuyasha the choicest of the selection. But, instead of reaching forward, he shifted uneasily, his head looking away from the meat while muttering a, "You go ahead."
Hearing the growl of the hanyou's stomach, Kitanya frowned. "I ate just this morning and there is plenty here for the both of us."
"-Keh, that ain't the point so just do as I say and eat."
Head tilted to the side, Kitanya looked down at the raw meat in her hands, her mouth already watering. "Inuyasha, I can't – "
"Damn-it! I told ya to eat and that's what I mean. Don't let it go to waste fussin' about protocol."
"Go to waste? I don't understand."
Sighing, Inuyasha placed his forehead in the palm of his hand while berating himself for loosing his temper when Kitanya was only trying to be nice. "Listen, I'm a half-breed, Kitanya."
"I am aware of your lineage, Inuyasha but I fail to see what that has to do with eating."
"Oh for the love of the gods . . . I can't eat it raw. Well, I mean I can, but then I get sick." Nudging the raw meat back in Kitanya's direction, Inuyasha repeated, "You eat it, don't let it go to waste."
Staring down at the bloody meat in her hands, Kitanya's eyebrows drew together in understanding and determination. Wrapping the meat back up, she rose from her position. "I'll be back soon." And with that, she vanished into the forest.
Inuyasha barely had time to wonder what the bear submissive was up to when she returned, her arms laden with wooden tinder. Eyes wide, the hanyou watched Kitanya as she settled the collected branches in place. Once positioned, the small bear flicked her claws together, a spark of fire bursting forth and quickly lighting the wood. Once the small blaze had grown and matured, Kitanya skewered a large chunk of meat and set to cook.
Silently, both sat while the deer meat sizzled and cooked, Inuyasha's cramped stomach begging more insistently as the smell assaulted his nose. When it was thoroughly cooked, Kitanya offered the meat again. "Please do not hesitate to tell me of what other needs may be different than my own. Nothing you could ever tell me would make me think less of you. Half-breed or not, to me, you are the strongest being I have ever encountered."
Grabbing the offered meat, Inuyasha took a large bite out of it, savoring the warm juices as they slid down his throat. Only after he'd swallowed that large bite did he respond. "Sounds like you haven't meant many youkai then."
Pleased the hanyou was now eating; Kitanya took a bite of her own raw meat. "As princess of my tribe, I had both the pleasure and displeasure of meeting many youkai. So you see, I do have a rather wide breadth of choices to compare you with. And, with all that knowledge, my opinion still stands."
Blushing yet again, Inuyasha took another bite of his food. Having absolutely no idea how to respond to such a ridiculous statement, all he could do was hold his silence. Soon enough, the meat was gone and the hanyou began to feel the pull of sleep. Given his current wounds, it was unlikely he'd be able to get up in his tree, plus, he would never leave Kitanya down on the ground. If they were going to be together for a while, he'd have to teach her to appreciate heights.
Yawning widely, Inuyasha settled back, his eyes slitted. Seeing this, Kitanya pulled out her fur. She thought briefly about offering it to the hanyou but figured he'd see it more as an insult than kindness. "If you would like to sleep, I can keep watch."
Inuyasha tilted his head to the side. "No, you sleep. I'll wake up if there's trouble."
Trusting the hanyou, Kitanya scooted just a little closer before lying down. Chewing on her bottom lip with her fangs, the bear youkai stared at the dwindling fire. "Inuyasha?"
"Hmm?" was his sleepy response.
"I . . . thank you. Those words seem too small to express my gratitude, but they are all I have."
Letting loose another yawn, Inuyasha made a scoffing noise. "Don't worry about it."
"Yes, I know, but still, you didn't have to do that. You don't even know me, and – "
"Kitanya."
"Yes?"
"Go to sleep."
Small smile slipping across her face, Kitanya settled into her thin fur, her body lying on the hard earth. To be certain, her sleeping accommodations were far less comfortable than any she'd previously had, and yet, she was fairly certain she'd sleep better tonight than she had in decades. Mind and soul at peace, Kitanya closed her eyes and whispered, "Goodnight, Inuyasha."
Ah . . . there you have it, or, at least, they've finally met. I hope you enjoyed their interactions. The next chapter should have Inuyasha finally going out onto that field to present himself. Most likely you all can guess at how that's going to go :-). Just as an FYI, we don't really learn just how "creative" the Lord of the East is going to get with Jakotem. I'll leave that up to your devious little minds and you can all mentally torture him to your heart's content.
Next update will most likely be in one week. Hope to see you all then. Drop me a review if you have time and let me know what you think so far. I believe we've picked up a few new readers, so to those of you just starting out - welcome!
lunamist
