Welcome to Beauty and The Half Breed

Once a beautiful life, turned upside down. Tarru began to travel to prove herself. One day, she adopted a small companion that would lead her to trouble with the Great Lord of the West. Will two innocent children become matchmakers?

Foreclosure: I do not own Inuyasha or any of the characters. However, the ones that I have created are my precious jewels and would like to keep them as my own:

Note: Please send your words of love or of any statements that you think I should know! I love hearing from you good or bad!

Recap:

"Are you ready, Kenta? It needs to be fresh so he can get what he needs."

The rat demon nodded. His hands finally unlatched themselves from each other. His long fingers were digging around in the bag hidden in his kimono.

The great lord drew a hand back. He grew bored of just sitting in this field, his blood boiling with anger. He never let his emotions control him, especially during a fight. But the way her blue smiled at him, as if mocking him! The nerve of that woman to express any sort of emotion besides fear as she stood before him. And curse his inner demon for feeling anything besides anger. Why was it not howling with rage, foam oozing from its haunches? Why did it seem to wage its tail at the sight of her staring him down?

Damn this half demon and her magic. His fingers began their glow as he summoned his poison. Before it could seep out of his pores, Tarru landed before him with her fist drawn.


Even Haru did not hear the suspicious conversation behind him. His yellow eyes were too busy absorbing the scene before him. The organ in his chest felt like a little hammer trying to bust through his rib cage. His arms had gone numb as he clenched at this heart, trying to calm in. The demoness that had saved him, brought him from the dark, was facing off with Lord Sesshomaru. Possibly the strongest demon he had ever met, was glaring at his stepmother in a way he had never seen before. How the field around them was not aflame because of that golden glare, Haru did not know. He knew Tarru was strong. He had seen her fight many times. She became a different being with a weapon in her grasp. She no longer was the nurturing mother he loved, but a blood thirsty demon.

Haru and Rin caught both demons staring at the other while on their adventures. Over the campfire, or while on the hunt, their eyes always seemed lost in thought when the other wasn't looking. It made Rin giggle. Haru didn't understand that it meant they liked each other. Tarru always used heated, mean words after Sesshomaru called her names. It seemed like an odd thing to like about each other. Now, their eyes no longer watched the other in awe. No, blue met gold and caused an alarming electric shock that filled anyone in the area to the core with fear. This was not like the little spats that occurred on their travel when the children were present. They both were hungry to avenge their prides. They could finally let their blades feast upon the other's flesh like they had craved since first meeting. If one was to hand their hunger over to their inner beast… Haru did not wish to witness anyone sliced in half.

Sesshomaru's fingers began to glow as he summoned his poison. Before it could even seep out of his pores, Tarru landed before him with her fist drawn. Instead of throwing his whip he reached for her wrist. He smirked. Even though she kept her face blank, he could see the pain as his poison burned her skin. She was biting her tongue to keep the hiss in her mouth. He had to admit, she did well hiding her pain. But it was still there, and he planned on doing much worse things than that to her.

Tarru jumped, her wrist still in Sesshomaru's grasp. She kicked against his chest and flipped backwards. When her feet hit the ground, she allowed herself a moment to study the demon before her. Try and find any sort of weakness. To no surprise, there was none of the notorious Lord of the West. He was ready to strike. A wall of perfection. Even his mental barrier was unbreachable. She knew if her footing slipped, or her blade a moment too late, she would be glaring death in the face.

Her inner demon smirked. He will share the same thought.

She reached for her fans. There would be no gain of just staring at each other. Jumping forward, she gave him no time to draw his weapon. She had not called for her poison, yet. The metal blades slashed, hungry for his blood. But, he was fast. She would jump and he would step back. If she slashed, he would step to the side. Her inner demon growled, and it begged to take control. She brushed it away, but the distraction caused her to completely miss the neck she was aiming for. A growl ripped through her when the metal dug deep into bark. Her fingers tried to tug it free, but there was no give.

A deep chuckle hit the air and her inner demon yelled at her to move. The glowing claws reeked of poison when she fell to the ground. She could smell the fabric of her haori melting away. His attack had only grazed her shoulder, but the poison ate at her skin. She hissed and touched the wound with her claws. She tore her skin before any more of it could be eaten away. With the blood, she flung her hand. The droplets turned to blades and shot towards Sesshomaru. She followed her attack, reaching for her sword as she flew through the air.

Nothing could break her concentration. Her need to see The Great Sesshomaru's blood made her inner demon run circles in her chest. Her sword fit perfectly in her hand. It slashed at the lord, who had drawn his mighty Tōkijin. She couldn't help but smirk as they began a dance. One so beautifully performed, but could never be choreographed. Never again would any creature witness something so flawless. One attacking, the other defending. One forward, the other back. No cue missed.

It was ruined, however when a mighty roar bellowed out of Sesshomaru. It vibrated in her chest, and her inner demon hackled with pure delight. His back was against a tree and her sword aimed for his heart.

His demon blood was boiling. He held back a hiss when her blade cut into his shoulder. They both heard the thud as it met the tree. The smirk on her face caused poison to come to his fingers without a thought. His inner demon was growling. This act would not go unpunished. His fingers wrapped around one of her wrist. Her skin melting away calmed him, slightly. His other fist swung at her face. Hearing her teeth crack against each other made his inner demon pur.

She fought against his grip as she bared her fangs. That only made him angrier. The poison intensified. Her skin was starting to peel. She slashed at his face and felt that joyous sensation of skin under her claws. But his grip did not loosen. Even when his head fell on to his shoulder. Silver bangs curtained his golden eyes. It appeared that he had passed out. Tarru knew better. His aura was growing wild. She knew when he looked at her next, his eyes would be flaming red. She tried to free herself before his anger could rein upon her. The wolf in her blood was telling her to run. Her instincts could hear his muscles stretching as white fur ripped from under his flesh. This was no longer the calm and collected Sesshomaru. He had handed his conscious to his inner demon and the beast was transforming to its true form.

His neck cracked as he twisted to face her. She was lost in the sea of red as he glared at her. His fangs bared and Tarru knew, for a moment, what fear felt like. He tried to step forward, but the blade kept him against the tree. He chuckled, and continued. She could hear her blade cutting even more of his muscle as he slid up the blade towards her.

"No," she croaked. She placed her hand against his chest. She could feel his heart beating faster than any drum. She feared if she did not keep her palm against his skin, the organ would shoot from his chest. "You are only causing harm to yourself if you continue!"

A growl was her answer as he took another step further into the blade. His aura was on fire. There was no control in his eyes. Just the hunger for blood. Her blood. If he was not contained, everyone in the area would be in harm's way. She glanced over her shoulder and saw Haru watching. Tears were in his eyes. He was worried. Scared. He had every right to be. Even though Tarru hated to admit it, Sesshomaru was a great and powerful demon. If he did transform into his true form, even she would have a hard time keeping the children safe.

This needed to end. Now.

She swung her foot as he went to take another step forward. His grip on her finally released when her shoe met his chin. He fell back into the tree and she reached for her blade. He had blacked out again and now would be the only time. When it finally left the bark and Sesshomaru's muscle, he awoke. His aura settled, but he was still bristling with anger. She flipped backwards, being in arms reach of him now would be dangerous. But her poor arm, the one withering in pain as the skin still melted away, could not handle her weight as she sprung backwards.

Sesshomaru recovered and lunged as she fell to the earth. When she hit, he was above her with his blade at the ready. He swung, but her blade met his and sparks went flying. A clap broke out. The sound of two hands hitting as if someone wanted to express approval. What. The. Hell.

Tarru glanced through Sesshomaru's legs. There she stood, a smile crossing her face. Those damn golden eyes gleamed a way that made Tarru's inner demon growl. What was this wench's scheme. She stood straight only when Sesshomaru returned Tōkijin to its sheath. He turned away without a congratulatory nod of any sort. Part of Tarru couldn't help but smirk at the back of his head. The other half, however, knew somehow she would pay for this later.

"My dear," Lady Inukimi beamed. "You were right. Your skills even put a start in my son. You would make a wonderful addition to the, already remarkable, bloodline of the West." She added, tossing it over her shoulder at her retreating son. "If only there was a lord that could tame you."

Tarru knew what Inukimi was trying to imply. Most demoness's would have blushed. Hell, even males would have been prideful. Tarru appeared in the dark part of her memories. The place she rarely ever visited. A tiny voice spoke, a bright light touched the corner of her brain that had been concealed for 200 years.

Yes… it would have been. Father would be very proud to hear such a compliment.

It was like someone had struck her. A fiery hot sword went through her chest and for a moment she forgot how to breathe. She had to turn away in case Inukimi saw what was playing behind her eyes. She needed to flee. She realised now how dangerous it was here. Her cause, the very reason for her running the past 200 years, was too precious to just throw away. And that's exactly what she was doing. Beckoning it above her head like large, red flag. She was one inhale of a keen nose from being discovered. Yes, she had fooled Sesshomaru and Inukimi. But, there were many more demons in the royal court that could connect her scent with her past.

Her inner demon was pacing, not enjoying the fact that old memories were surprising her. She had refused to let the walls crumble for many years. Her inner demon had done well to keep her distracted. Being surrounded by these familiar walls again was like paint in the rain. It was fading fast and she didn't know how much longer she could keep them contained. Inukimi had called to her. Completely oblivious to the fact that Tarru's thoughts were no longer in this blood stained field. She had turned to the gate and readied to flee to the safety of the woods. It took her a moment to realise that the Lady was speaking.

What if she did start walking, and not stop till she was lost within the woods. The walls so far behind her that even her powerful demon eyes could not tell what color the flag was as it waved above the castle. She would have continued walking until it was only nature and her again. No shovels that dug up buried memories. There would not be a need to watch her words. Check over and over to make sure they would not give her away. She could speak freely. Fight freely. She would be free.

What of Haru? Her inner demon spoke up, would you pause long enough to fetch him? Or have you grown tired of raising him?

She snapped back at her inner demon. You're the one that got me into this mess!

That is not what I asked. Would you allow him to stay here? Could he defend himself long enough with no one to care for him?

Could she live with herself knowing that Sesshomaru would surely take revenge upon the little boy for the damage she had done to his pride today. He would have no issue ending the boy's life. The real answer was if the boy could survive knowing that he was left alone again in this world? Could his heart withstand that pain? There would be no way her inner demon would let her hide him away like she had done everything else in the back of her head. It would always haunt her.

No, no she couldn't. They had spent these past months together. It would take a lifetime for her to forget him. She found herself kneeling before the pup. In his yellow eyes, she saw his innocence. But also strength. He had grown so much since the river. His heart held so much light. She could never let him return to the dark place she found him in. Her arms brought him into a tight embrace. He startled, she had never held him like this before. He wiggled his arms free from under her armour and wrapped them around her neck. There was no way to understand what Tarru was thinking. But Inukimi really seemed to enjoy ruining the moment.

"You have made a disaster of your clothes, Tarru." Her golden eyes glowed disapprovingly. "Kenta." She barked, turning her golden eyes from Tarru's burning gaze, to the glowing red ones. "Take this poor creature to the bath house. "

Tarru growled not appreciating the noun. Had she not just faced off with the infamous Lord of the West and walked away with minor wounds? Had she not successfully caused him to hand his conscious over to his inner demon? Did she not save Lady Inukimi's ungrateful ass from getting killed in the crossfire? This demoness was truly foolish.

Despite the glare that could have split her in half, Inukimi continued.

"Make sure she has fresh garb. No one shall run through these halls like a heathen."

The rat demon shifted from behind his mistress, his hands already knotting together. His smile made Tarru's stomach to lurch with distaste. She stood straight and reached for the children. When their hands formed a chain, she turned them towards the red-head and signaled with a nod of her head that she was ready to get as far away from this field as possible.


No matter how many oils the children poured into the water, Kenta's stench never left her nose. It left a nasty taste on her tongue. She didn't enjoy his company. He made her inner demon's fur to stand on ends. She had to bite her tongue when he tried staying when they reached the bath house. Her words needed carving down, soft on the edges when they were directed towards him. If she spoke with the hostility that was really behind her tongue, surely Inukimi would have had a fit. Royal law was so taxing on Tarru's patience.

At least the bath was luxurious enough. A treat only ones of higher court got to enjoy. She let her mind wonder. Her eyes appeared to watch the two children playing, but her concentration was far away. She was overlooking the events that had happened today and tried to absorb it all. Why had Inukimi insisted that she and Sesshomaru battle? What good came from it for her? Was the demoness testing Tarru's tales? Did she really not believe all the travels and battles that Tarru portrayed? The only chance Inukimi could ever experience a day of Tarru's life would have been through a story. Told probably by a nanny.

So why did she not believe Tarru? She appeared a nomad, how else was she to prove it? Fighting The Great Sesshomaru would have just proven her skill with the blade.

But that voice rang in her skull. It nearly cracked as it bounced around.

Poor Creature!

Feh, Inukimi had enough valor to call her such a name. Had she not drawn blood from the unstoppable force called her son? What use did that woman ever do to the Earth? If it wasn't for that nauseating Kenta, she would surely not be so high and mighty with herself.

As her thoughts went in a spiral, she sunk deeper into the comfort that the water had to offer. She slipped into an almost meditation state. The four stone walls around her, all the quiet servants, and even the giggling children disappeared. It was just she and her heartbeat. The beast in her chest still for the first time since she stumbled upon the little wolf demon.

Even the servants didn't notice as his pale, bony fingers clasped on to her kimono and slipped out the door. His sharp, red eyes glared at any servant that passed. He guarded the bundle as if someone would appear and fight him to the death for it. Even if it was just a bunch of dirty clothes. He barked orders at the ones to slow to move from his path. He stuck to the shadows, as if he needed to stay out of sight. He was totally unaware that the servants were ignoring him. Sesshomaru was in his study and anyone who could have cared, turned their backs on him.

He was in a rush. This mission important to his Lady. Nothing could stop him! So, when he stepped through the giant doorway, the scent of the petals and candles that always caught others senses off guard, made his inner demon pur. He had to control himself to not sprint down the winding pathway to her bedside. Had to calm his shaking knees as he genuflected before her. He stretched his arms out, offering the bundle of the half-breed's stained clothing as if they were a valued fortune.

Thin, elegant fingers curled around the cloth, "is this what you need, Myoga?"


Thank the Gods the children enjoyed being outside. The walls were constricting Tarru's breathing. Her inner demon weighed from the shackles of living within royal ways. The wind stirred her blood. Rose her inner demon from its cage. Her nose took in many scents. Her skin warmed under the sun. Her inner demon was finally at peace after many days of captivity. The rains had been heavy the past week. Too long for Tarru to stay in doors.

The breeze tugged at her hair as she shared a bed of flowers with Haru. The sky above them as blue as it had ever been. Clouds created fun shapes of all sizes as they lazily swam in the sky. Rin was busy with a lesson, forced to stay inside a little while longer. The girl had explained that Sesshomaru would be busy with "great lord work" and extended their stay at the castle. Neither Tarru nor Rin were excited about these news. Both hated life within the walls of the castle. Well, if Rin could hate anything. Her human blood was looked down upon, even if Sesshomaru would slay whoever voiced a bad thought about her. It was rough on a human being surrounded by demons.

With nothing to protect the human from, Tarru found herself with a lot of free time. She was only here because Rin had a huge heart for Haru, and Sesshomaru surprisingly shared one for the human girl. She would never allow herself to become a servant of the castle. Even though she would consider herself as a nanny to Rin, she stayed far away from servant duties. She would never allow herself to sink that low.

It was surprising, however, when Inukimi gifted her and Haru with clothing. She made sure to leave a note explaining that they would live civilized now. No matter how generous the gifts were, Tarru still couldn't stand being within the walls. It had been a long time since she had slept in a bed. The one in her room was more opulent than needed. She found comfort on a branch outside the window. The walls were fit for a servant, but to Haru he felt like a king. Never had he slept on crisp sheets. The earth had always been his blankets. Tarru could not take this privilege away from him. The pup had never known a life like this and was enjoying every moment. But to Tarru, it was a vicious nightmare. It was starting to weigh on her like a wet bear pelt. Each day seemed to add another. Her knees were starting to buckle underneath the weight.

But for now, the grass was a bed no feather mattress could replace. The sun warmer than any fireplace. Her wolf pup shared this small hill, their ears touching as they watched the clouds. Tarru closed her eyes, letting the warm sun lick her eyelids. She let herself relax. There was no need to be on defense here. Haru had fallen asleep. Many clouds had passed since he made a sound.

When he did speak, his voice sounded like it was still in a dream. "Where did you learn how to battle so well?"

She didn't move, but glanced at him with her peripheral vision. She had no idea where this sudden thought came from. She reached out to feel which emotion was controlling him. He seemed nervous. She started outlining a knuckle with her index finger mimicking Haru as he drowned in his thoughts.

"I have been around for many moons, young one." She started to explain. "When you are on your own the rule is kill or be killed. You did not have to learn at a young age like I had."

His yellow eyes were glued to the sky. His little fingers in knots. Hopefully he didn't pick up the habit from Kenta.

"I wish to be strong… like you are, hogosha."

It still sounded foreign to Tarru. Had it not just been months ago that she was a shadow? Her only proof of existence was the stories caused by the terror of her snarling teeth. Now look at her, being referred to as a guardian by a demon that barely reached her thigh. In the months that she had known this wolf pup she not only saw him grow, but felt herself changing. Not like when the moon hid from the sky and her hair turned silver. No, she could feel it even from her inner demon's heart. Her instincts had changed. It no longer felt the need to continue on the path she had been on for so long. It now strived for his happiness. To see that smile stretch across his face with his yellow eyes gleaming. His giggled destroyed the wall she had built, melted all of her armor.

The adjustment was odd. This path was one she had never planned on taking. That fateful night when she had slipped into the night she had made a vow. From the very first step she took, she knew it could only be herself on this path. There would be no room for a companion. Especially one she would have to care for. It would be impossible for them to keep up with her. She needed to keep running before her past could catch up with her.

But was 200 years of running enough? Had she spent enough time in the shadows to prevent the nightmare to attain her? No one spoke that name anymore. It had at least been 100 years since that story was told from a demon's tongue. Was it finally safe for her to settle down. She had gained as much knowledge this world had to offer. Her strength had reached a level that only The Lord Sesshomaru could handle. What was next for the nomadic demoness? Was it time for her to slow her pace. Had she found the next path that the Gods had laid for her. Was it her duty to not only protect this wolf pup, but train him to become as powerful as she? Could she help this pup on his road so he one day could protect his own pups?

The image of a face-less, beautiful woman with children playing at her feet formed in the clouds. She saw one form into the shape of Haru, his yellow eyes as bright as the sun. It stretched until a strong, grown Haru floated above her. A smile spread across her lips. Yes, that was his fate. And it was hers to make it possible. Her stomach felt like a pot of demon stew. It overflowed into her veins and tickled her toes. She lifted herself up and rested her weight on her elbows.

"You do, young pup?" A smirk replaced her smile. "Well, to be tough like me you must first pass a test."

The boy had turned to face her with his yellow eyes large, filled with excitement. He was worried she would deny him of the chance of learning the ways of a fighter. She was very protective of him.

"What kind of tests?"

He did not notice the evil glint in her eye. She pulled the pup to her chest, running her fingers down his sides. She poked the spaces in his ribs that caused a squeal to erupt from his lips. The sound cooed her inner demon. Her whole body seemed to relax. A laugh slipped from her, caught in the wind as it blew through the grass. It was a sound she had not made in many, many years. His squeals continued, even if the pup begged for mercy. Tarru only replied with a laugh and continued her attack on his sides.

However, she paused when two maids walked passed with their heads together with gossip. Their words meant for only each other but her sensitive ears could not help but listen.

"The Lady says she is fed up with the castle hallways being empty of an heir."

Obviously the cat and bear demonesses were talking of Inukimi.

"But, is she to rash to throw such an event without the Lord's consent?"

That caught Tarru's attention. Of course Inukimi would scheme something, but what would be worth this type of gossip?

"Well, she is still the Lady of the caste. No?"

"Do you think she's told him that she's already invited every one of the higher courts? Even Princess Suki, the panther demoness?"

What did they mean by everyone? And for what? Her heart beat was gaining speed.

"Just imagine his face when his hall is full of ladies ready to be courted!"

"Anyone with a drop of nobility in their blood will be here. I can only pray to the Gods he has a humor about him that evening."

Haru could feel his mother tense as her ears picked up every word of the conversation between the two maids. Even his tiny ears heard. They obviously thought they were free of listeners. He didn't understand why she would be bothered by gossip between servants. Lady Inukimi wasn't even interesting enough for Tarru. The demoness always had something to say. The only time she seemed to care when Lord Sesshomaru was around.

What he did understand that Lord Sesshomaru was throwing a party! He remembered the festival when they met Inuyasha in that human village. And from Rin's stories, who had saw many when they travelled through human villages, said she would love to attend one. He remembered all the women in pretty kimonos, and all the men asking them to dance. Oh, and the food! There was plenty of that! It would be great to attend another festival. What could be wrong with that?

He pulled on a strand of black hair. Her blue eyes were staring into another world. They filled with an emotion he had never witness her feel before. The blue eyes swam, and if he was not mistaken… could that be fear?

Something had to be wrong.


There was a knock on the door. He knew who it was before their knuckles hit the wooden frame. It surprised him that she had taken a step back and was waiting for his approval to enter his study. What could it possibly be to make the half breed act civilized? It better not distract him from his work. She had already caused him enough trouble as is. He continued reading, but acknowledged her presence.

From behind his scroll, he watched her step through the sliding door. When she turned to close it, she took a deep breath in and out. What was she preparing herself for? He eyed her new wardrobe, gifts from his mother. No longer did she wear her armor or her swords. Now a white kimono accented with silver sakura blossom. It bothered him how well it fit her. How well it brought out her blue eyes. Deep down his inner demon gave a silent cry when he saw them swimming with an emotion he did not expect from her. It irritated him that he could not tear his eyes away from her. He watched as her hips sashayed towards his desk. Damn this wench's magic tricks. First she planted false ideas in his head, now she was controlling his body? Was that why she had come here? To test out this new skill?

He went to growl towards her. When he met her eye again, all sense of attack left him. Her chin was held high, but her blue eyes danced with a dangerous pattern of fear. Deep inside herself she was battling with something. Even when she faced him at his most terrifying that look never crossed her. His inner demon paced in thought of what could bother this demoness. He continued to pretend to read as she waited for permission to speak. He never knew she had such self-control. He watched as the mask built over her blue eyes. No longer could he see them swimming. She expressed a scant amount of emotions through those blue jewels.

"I'm taking Rin."

The serenity of the moment of her acting civilized came to a screeching halt. A growl rumbled in the back of his throat as he jumped away from his desk. He sensed for Rin to figure out exactly where to jump if the half breed dared to continue on with her plan. But she held a hand up. She didn't need her mind reading ability to know what he was thinking. Obviously, this was not going to be easy, but she didn't need his inner demon controlling his thoughts.

"Calm yourself. I am actually here to help you."

That didn't ease the demon thrashing around in his chest. It sure didn't make him return to his spot and continue reading his scroll. He was ready to pounce. He wanted to shred the idea, and her, to pieces. He wasn't doing what she told him to do and she rolled her eyes at him. She tried repeating her words again, hoping he would listen this time.

Instead, he stepped around the desk and was before her in a blink of an eye. She didn't flinch, unlike what he wanted. He glared down at her. She tried to stay calm, but he was close. To close for comfort. His chest was free of his armor and his scent was rolling off of him in heated waves. His golden-amber eyes were nearly burning her. She felt the sudden urge to dig her claws into that white hatori top. If her inner demon could have its way, she would make it where his scent would be in her nose every day. If anyone ever had enough gall to stand this close where she could feel their breath on her lips, her claws would make sure they knew to back off. But this demon, the Great Lord of the West's breath made her quiver. Her inner demon was doing back flips.

Then, she shook her head. What the hell was wrong with her?

"Did you enjoy your tantrum?"

She met that golden glare with her own. He growled ready to bring her to his chest. His arms were shivering with anticipation to feel her skin against his as he crushed every rib of hers. He wanted to run his claws through her dark hair. Pull it back so he could sink his teeth into that delicate looking flesh and rip out her throat. He wanted to hear her scream his name as her last word. The many things his demon wanted to do to her influenced by her magic, of course. It was becoming dangerously annoying.

"Lady Inukimi is planning a courting ball in your honor."

His inner demon ran head first into a rib. Surprise filled him, something that did not happen every day. Her pride did not need to know that.

"I have gotten a chance to glance at who has been invited."

She really meant that she had seen it in Kenta's thoughts. When she heard the maids gossiping she went straight for the being that had to be apart of this scheme. The red head's thoughts had raced while he helped the Lady organized this secret event. His need to make her happy was almost revolting. Tarru felt detestable just sharing the same thoughts. Reaching into his thoughts was as easy as Haru's. Eventually, he had gone over the invite list while Tarru hid in the shadows.

"You have a month before every female of the higher courts will fill your halls with the anticipation of catching your heart."

He rolled his eyes. Like he would actually be bothered by such an event. There was no need for a mate, or anyone trying to become one. He had his lands to watch over. No eyelash fluttering, fan swirling, smart mouthed, blue eyed half demon… he stopped himself before he could finish that thought. Shooing his smirking inner demon away, he returned to the real issue. His damn mother and this pointless courting ball. It was humorous how she assumed he would stand for this. His desk was almost clear of work. It would not be long before he would return to his lands and this courting business would be behind him.

"But Lord Sesshomaru," Tarru warned, obviously listening to his thoughts.

He could hear how bitter his proper title tasted on her tongue. He couldn't help the smirk on his lips. Finally the half demon was learning.

"Do not think you can easily get out of this. All the Lords, and their daughters, will be on their way to your lands under the impression that they will get to impress you. The men hope to finally merge their lands with the West, the greatest honor that could happen to any land of all time. The ladies will hope to share a dance with you. Stare into your eyes and win you over. Every female that will be in your presence has the highest hopes to be the one that will bear you a son to pass on your faultless genes."

She glanced away for a moment. He saw that her cheeks gleamed a slight pink. The beast in his chest swelled with pride at all her fine words. She shook, as if her thoughts had gone to a place they did not belong. When her blue eyes met his again, they filled with such seriousness.

"How do you think they will react when they reach your front door and there is no Lord to impress? Do you think they will simply returned to their homes, holding their sides with laughter? Will they gossip the tale to one another as if a joke? How much anger will ensue after you denied their daughter a hand to marry? War will be upon you before they have returned to their homes. Time is not on your side. They all have already accepted. By the time the messengers could reach half the list, the others would already be on their way."

He closed his eyes as her words washed over him. Truth was a nasty thing to swallow. His clever shrew of a mother had thought of everything to keep him trapped. Even though he did not care what the other Lords thought of him or his lands, he would avoid war. It would be another waste of his time. It appeared that every female in his life aimed to cause him trouble. Except for Rin.

"This is the time to pull your head out of your ass and listen. Every Lord, their wives, daughters, and sons will be attending this banquet. How do you think they will react when they catch on to my sce-" She paused, her mouth hanging a jar.

Her train of thought had derailed dramatically and she accidentally said what she was thinking instead of what she had scripted. The mask fell from her eyes. He saw the fear return. His inner demon gave a whimper at the sight of them. She tried to glare at him, but he could see past that. Being this close, he could almost see what was causing her trouble.

She shook her head. Hopefully he hadn't caught on to her slip up.

"Onto… onto Rin's scent. Even if she were to go away for the evening, her scent would still be everywhere. Even on you. We need to make sure the meddling demons keep their noses in line."

But he did catch on. His eyebrow perked as he peered deeper into her eyes. What was she trying to hide? Why had she come before him using Rin as a shield? Could this explain why her scent was still a mystery to him? Was he about to solve this puzzle that had eluded him since laying his eyes on the black wolf months ago?

She knew her control in this conversation had been lost. She needed to put space between them. Let her mind get back on track so she could get Sesshomaru to listen to her. If she just up and left, Rin would be hurt. Sesshomaru would not forgive for doing any sort of harm to his little human. Tarru was left with the decision of leaving again and what that would mean for Haru. Her heart had already decided and there was no going back now. She wanted to roll her eyes at herself. To let that little organ in her chest rule her thoughts was most troublesome. But she needed space. The chest in front of her and wall at her back was started to become constricting.

He saw her move to the side. He stepped, if it was possible, even closer to her. His chest bumped against hers and she felt the wall against her back. Unless she sliced her way through, she was trapped. All she could see was the muscles near to rip through the white material of his haori. She bit her tongue to bring it back to life.

"A few days travel North-east from the castle walls is the cave of Furawāsupiritto, the flower spirit. Inside, the Kakusu Shūki flower grows. With that I can mask Rin's scent. While we travel you must have the servants clean every inch of this castle. The flower will make us undetectable to any nose near. We can return when its safe after you name your mate and the others leave your lands."

"No."

She glared.

"But it is the safest way! Your planters only grow basic herbs. Nothing as strong as the Kakusu Shūki will mask scents completely!"

He heard his inner demon hum. Maybe that is why her scent is still detectable. She hasn't been using the right herb to mask her scent…

"I trust you with Rin in these walls. Many demons wander my lands, and I dare not trust your skills out there."

He knew the human would be safe in her room while the festivities happened. He didn't need to worry about her while he dealt with the nuisance that would be begging for his company.

"You will leave, only long enough for the herb to work into her system. Not a moment longer. If anything happens to her, it will be your life."

The breath of hope she had held on to slipped through her lips in a defeated sigh. Her flawless plan came crumbling down because of this stubborn demon before her. If he only understood that this potion needed to be drank every hour or their scents would be detected in an instant. Even if a minute passed they could be caught. Hiding out in Rin's room that evening did not sound appealing to her. Listening for any wanders and keeping the children quiet seemed like an impossible quest.

He seemed to grow bored with watching her squirm under his gaze. He turned towards his desk and found a comfortable place. He brought his fingers together as he turned the plan over in his thoughts. It might have a chance of working. If the half demon could keep her word that the elixir was strong enough. He couldn't help his mind wander back to when her tongue slipped. Did she really come to him to cover Rin's scent? Was there a deeper meaning for finding the flower? Was she wanting to hide her own, in a stronger way than she already had? Was her need so strong that, for a moment, she had placed her own over Rin's? She had faced him in a full on battle to protect the human once. This had to be great if Rin was not her first priority.

He saw her eyes roll.

"It will take a month for it to work into her system."

He glared.

"You will be back no moment later."

She didn't wait for any more retorts to bark from his mouth. She bit back her own as she slipped through the door. When she was free from those golden orbs, a sigh of relief escaped her. No, it had not gone as planned. She would not be able to slip into the woods and hide until the coast was clear. At least her scent would be undetectable and the woods would be around her for more than a few hours. That could give her a sense of relief.

A sudden sound caught her attention. Her inner demon instantly growled. It came from Rin's room. She started in a trot towards it. It could not be what she feared. Maybe the two were playing too rough. Even though they only made that noise when they huddled in fear… It came again and she became a blur as she passed the servants in the halls. The closer she got to the room the louder his slimy voice became. She needed to go faster!

"I will not ask you again, boy. Where did you meet that half-breed?"

She could barely contain herself as her claws ripped through the rice paper door. Splinters of the wooden frame splattered against the floor when she stepped over the threshold into the room. She didn't need to study the scene before her to understand what was happening. All she needed to fuel her anger was the back of Kenta's red hair as he cornered the children. She flicked her fans open, her venom filling the blades admittedly. She swiped her weapon across her chest and the venom shot towards the rat demon. They tore at his clothes, his skin melting way. A howl bellowed from his lips as he turned towards her.

"You wench!" He exclaimed. His voice cracked as he clung to his wounds.

She was already before him with her fist drawn. Her inner demon roared when he went flying into the stone wall. Debris fell with his body, covering the floor in a white dust. She didn't turn away, but instructed the children to stand by the door.

It took the rat demon a moment to pick up his head. Dust clung to his hair making the red strands gray.

"How dare you lay a filthy finger upon the Lady of this castle's adviser." His teeth bared as he clumsily stood to his feet, using what was left of the wall behind him.

Tarru's growl silenced any other comment that was about to slip through his thin lips. "How dare you even think you could get close to my kin."

Her fingers dug into his dirty kimono and brought him close. Anger was radiating through her. Even though his eyes were spinning he could see the red starting to stain her glare. It dripped through the blue like spilt blood in bowl of water. But he had no reason to fear her. He was protected by the royal laws. If she was foolish, his life would be in trouble.

"We know you warned him." A chuckle rumbled his chest. Even though every bone in his body ached, he could not help himself. She was such a twit. "Do not think we won't figure out who you really are. My Lady is crafty and sees right through your pseudonym." He must have hit his head very hard. The words that came out of his bleeding mouth were very, very foolish. "Now, remove your filthy hands from me, half-breed."

Her hands shook for a moment. She was fighting with her inner demon and the royal law. How bad she wanted to rip this waste of flesh to shreds, but the consequences were greater than she could bare. She knew Sesshomaru would thank her for riding his lands of such a vexatious demon, Lady Inukimi would not. The royal order would be upon her in an instant and her fate would be sealed. She brushed the thought away. She needed to concentrate to calm her spin. It was already twitching for it to curve. Black fur was about to rip her skin to shreds. She needed to calm her nerves. They were too excited, filled with too much need to kill the demon before her.

She heard the whimper again. The sound like a cup for of freezing spring water in her head. It touched the beast in her chest like a crashing wave of ice. Her body filled with electricity, ready to rip the room apart. Her inner demon broke. Shattered into thousands of pieces. A very dry chuckle fell from her lips as she closed her eyes and shook her head. She needed to rattle her thoughts back into order.

She straightened, Kenta still in her grasp. A shade of fear glowed in his red eyes. At this moment, she could not have been more pleased that Sesshomaru had given her permission to escape from this cage, the damned stone walls. She needed to flee, to actually have nature around her. It had been too long since… wait, what thought did she just process? What was this permission thought about? Had she really asked Sesshomaru to leave? He had no control over her, no one did!

She did enjoy bickering with the demon lord. Deep down, a place where no eyes could peer upon, she enjoyed watching the way his golden-amber eyes flared. The way his chest expanded with his injured pride. It all made her inner demon purr from bliss. It wanted to know what it felt like to have her back against a wall. His eyes flaring as he took in her body. But she needed to watch herself, for that pesky creature was getting more confident with forcing Tarru into emotions she had never dealt with before.

The only thing she needed to worry about at this moment, and not some golden eyes, was the rat demon in her grasp. The fact that she had to share the same air-filled her with disgust. Her inner demon was ready to flare again. It was not time for it to make an appearance just yet. It would only waste its energy.

"You're not worth my time, rat."

She threw him to the ground, not as hard she wanted to. He would have crashed through the floors below them. The cry he made put Tarru a little at ease. She turned to the children, her heart tightening at the pure terror etched into their faces. She brushed against their thoughts, calming them as much as she could. When they were collected, each child still stiff and quiet, she had them heading towards the door without even lifting a finger. When they were in the hall, she threw the most threatening growl she could master in her mind.

You and your mistress need to keep your noses out of places they don't belong. My business is my own. If you dare question it further, or have enough gall to go digging for more, don't underestimate me. The human girl may confine me here, but nothing is preventing me from snapping your neck. I have no problem facing your Lord, if he didn't thank me first.