Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha.
Genre
: Romance/Angst/Hurt
Pairing
: Sesshoumaru/Kagome
Summary
: Little Rin has died and Sesshoumaru doesn't know what to do. He looses himself to his beast, lost in emotions he hasn't felt in hundreds of years. Kagome is called to subdue the raging beast and in the process binds herself to the taiyoukai stronger then her bond with Inuyasha. With Sesshoumaru's subduing comes the price of being Lady of the West and with the title comes all the downsides and perks of being ningen royalty among a youkai court.
A Demon Lord's Cry
Chapter Ten: To Challenge The Right
x . . . . x
Sesshoumaru had once stated that she was 'as pure as they come' but the child she supposedly brought with her stated otherwise.
Once the other women that vied for Sesshoumaru's attention caught wind of that, the challenges would be endless and she would be the first in line.
Kagome had been pleasantly chatting with her two favorite cooks, Shippo quietly munching on a sweet rice cake comfortably situated within her arms, when a light brown body streaked into the kitchen and landed beside the miko. She jumped slightly, holding Shippo tight to her bosom, before recognizing who the female sniffing at her curiously was. The delicate furred, distinctly feline features were scrunched in concentration and her bright orange eyes glittered with excitement. A gentle purr worked it's past her throat and Kagome arched a brow in question.
"I don't get it." Nalia finally whined as she she continued to sniff at Kagome before turning her nose on the kitsune in her arms.
"Nalia-san?" Kagome inquired.
"Your scents are highly intertwined but not the same." she murmured as a frown curled her more cat like snout. "I don't understand!"
"Understand what?" the miko asked, her head tilted the side.
"Sesshoumaru-sama said that you had a kitsune kit!" Nalia stopped sniffing and stood straight as she crossed her lean, muscles arms over her chest. The black stripes littering her light cocoa skin, glistening with the sweat she had worked up while training. "This kit cannot be yours!" she grumbled, her eyes narrowing. "Not by blood!"
Kagome's brows furrowed and she nodded her head slowly, "That's because he isn't, Nalia-san. I adopted him." she stated simply with a small shrug of her dainty shoulders. Nalia cast a curious glance at Kagome as she straightened from sniffing the child and tilted her head to the side.
"Are you sure you don't have any other kits?" Nalia murmured skeptically and Kagome couldn't help but let out a bark of laughter as she nodded her head.
"I'm positive." she nodded and Nalia huffed.
"Well... this is both odd and awkward."
"Odd?" Shippo asked as he finished nibbling his rice cake. "What is?" Nalia reached down and poked his forehead with a claw. "Hey!" Shippo scowled.
"Are you dysfunctional? What kind of kit runs toward a dangerous miko rather then away from her and then allows itself to be claimed and adopted?" Kagome took instant offense at Shippo being called 'dysfunctional' and being poked in the head.
"Apparently this kit." she snapped as she turned toward the cooks and bid them farewell. She looked at Nalia and then turned away without so much as nod of dismissal and walked out of the kitchen and headed toward her room. Soon enough she found it and slid open the door. She was somewhat unsurprised to see Himeno tidying up and cleaning off imaginary dust bits from the mirror and vanity as well as the wardrobe. Himeno turned from her current and her eyes brightened immediately upon seeing the young woman, a kind smile curling her lips.
"Kagome-sama!" she called as she stood and bowed. "I am so glad you are alright!"
Kagome smiled happily as she waved slowly, "Himeno-san! It's lovely to see you again." Kagome greeted as she placed Shippo down on the floor, watching as he immediately began to bound across the room, his little nose working twitching every which way as he sniffed every available space. Himeno cast Kagome a confused glance and Kagome nodded her head in Shippo's direction. "My son, Shippo." she murmured softly, a proud smile curling her lips.
"I had - I mean, I assumed - " Kagome interrupted as she finished the sentence Himeno was trying to speak.
"You assumed I had a ningen child." Himeno nodded her head as though ashamed. "It's alright, Nalia-san had thought the same for some reason or another."
"It is peculiar, Kagome-sama, when you think about it." Kagome tilted her head in question and gestured for the inu to continue. "Miko and youkai do not get along, generally speaking of course, and they definitely do not adopt youkai of any kind."
Kagome's cerulean gaze found Shippo and she pursed her lips in concentration. She had encountered quite a few things in her time within the Sengoku period and she had always known of the hatred for youkai that most ningen seemed to express. Never had anyone called her on taking in Shippo... at least not to her face. It had never seemed to bother Inuyasha, Sango, or Miroku and surely they would have said something. After all, if they had in issue with Shippo calling her 'Mama' then they would have made it perfectly clear.
She sighed, running a small hand through her hair and then looked toward Himeno. "Sesshoumaru said I had the day to myself. I'd like to take a bath, please." Himeno nodded her head and began grabbing a kimono from the wardrobe, noticing the small stress lines around Kagome's eyes. "Shippo-chan!" she called and Shippo stopped his sniffing at the things on the vanity and looked over at her. "Bath time!"
"Yes, Mama!" Shippo said brightly. He had always enjoyed bath time with Kagome. There were always toys and bubbles to played with and she always helped him groom his tail. He bounded toward her arms and Kagome left the room, knowing that Himeno would bring Kagome her clothing once it had been chosen for the day. At first, she had protested greatly and then she realized that it was for the best. After all, she couldn't tell the difference between her casual kimono's or semi-formal ones.
She walked through the Western House, headed toward her private bathing quarters and immediately breathed a sigh of content when she reached them, opened the door, and was hit the blast of hot, wet air.
This was just what she needed after the trials of the passed day or so.
Everything looked better after a bath.
.
Takeshi sat outside the door of Kagome's bathing chamber, wearing a white haori and black hakamas, similar to Sesshoumaru's in style, different in the way of patterns. The haori a small pattern of grey leaves embroidered along the sleeves though the hakamas were plain. His brilliant green eyes were closed as he leaned along the wall, his obsidian hair falling loose around him. His elfin ears twitched every now and then as laughter was heard from the room among idle chatter. He waited, patiently, for her to exit though he was content in this moment.
" - and the big bad wolf went and he - " Kagome's soothing voice murmured softly.
"Huffed and puffed!" Shippo interrupted, though Kagome's laughter was musical.
"That's right. He huffed and puffed but couldn't blow down the last house. So instead he tried to go through the chimney - which is a hole in the top of the house - and jumped down! But he landed in pot of boiling water and the three little pigs were safe from the big bad wolf and lived happily ever after!"
"I'm glad." Shippo said softly. "Mama... we'll live happily ever after, right? Like Inuyasha said?"
"Inuyasha said that, did he?"
"Mhm. When I was dying... " there was a momentary pause. "He said we would live happily ever after."
He scented the smell of salt on the air and he sighed softly.
"Of course we will, Shippo. Of course." she responded gently, though he could hear the waver in her voice. There was momentary splashing and the rustle of cloth. Minutes passed as Kagome hummed and soon she and Shippo appeared at the door. She noticed Takeshi immediately and gave him a small wave. "Hello, Takeshi, back on guard duty?" she asked, a small smile curling her lips.
"Of course, Kagome-sama. I can't leave my charge for too long." he flashed her smile as he stood smoothly and Kagome's smile turned to a frown.
"I haven't asked you about your wounds. How are they?"
"Fully healed, maybe a scar or two here and there, but other then that, I'm fine." Kagome placed a hand on his arm and pursed her lips.
"You back was flawless." she murmured.
"It now has character." he responded back, his eyes twinkling, not wanting to see the sadness on her face any longer. It seemed he had gotten over her humanity before he himself had realized. She nodded her head and pulled her hand away and he was able to breathe easy. He had learned that Kagome was a whirlwind of emotion and she could never stick with one feeling for very long. It was both endearing and frustrating. Youkai were vastly different in that aspect. Emotions were either hidden away or masked by pleasantries or pure instinct.
She was a breath of fresh air in an otherwise stale room.
Kagome began to walk, Shippo running ahead of her as he began to sniff around some more to get his bearings in the large estate, and Takeshi walked beside her. A comfortable silence settled around the trio as they wandered. There was a moment of peace in the otherwise hectic week and of course, it couldn't last very long.
.
Sesshoumaru's golden eyes narrowed as his stomach turned with vile scents that emanated from the prison cells. Vomit, feces, death, and sickness heavily filled the air and he fought to scrunch up his nose, as though it would block some of the scent. Ichiro, Shigure, and Nalia trailed behind him silently, each lost in their own thoughts as they were to face a former comrade. True, he was the worst of bastards at times but he had fought alongside each of them. One could never truly forget another that had fought on the same battlefield.
When the four came upon the cell that contained their 'treasonous' companion, it was no surprise to them to see the current state of the elemental. His grey hair was matted with dirt and filth, his cell smelled rank, his pristine clothing was dirty, and his dark blue eyes were filled with a sort of contempt. Sakumo's wrists were bound above his head while he sat on his knees, the skin raw and infected. The clasps that held his wrists were infused with ancient magic that held back ones youki to prevent possible escape.
"Greetings comrades, what brings you to my cell?" his rumbling voice purred. Even without his magic, his voice still that edge of distant thunder.
"Sakumo." Sesshoumaru greeted lowly, golden eyes reflecting what little light could be seen within the prison walls. "I have questions."
"Tsk, tsk, Sesshoumaru-sama." he chuckled mockingly. "If I have yet to talk to the interrogators, what makes you think I will answer to you, hmm?"
Sesshoumaru gestured for Ichiro to unlock the cell. The inu pursed his lips, but did as bid. Sesshoumaru's imposing figure entered the small cell and he glared down at the man on his knees. He lifted a leg and in an instant had his booted foot pressed to Sakumo's throat, the elemental making a small indent in the rock wall. Sesshoumaru's eyes glowed for a just moment, filling with power, his beast just below the surface. He was tired of his house being in the disarray it currently was and having loyal subjects turn here and there. Sakumo first and then Takeshi second. Who would be next?
"Listen, vermin..." Sesshoumaru spat, relishing in the moment where Sakumo gasped, his boot cutting off his air way. "... there will be no more interrogators. Obviously, they are not doing a proper job if you have this much fight left within you. I will ask you once and only once, Sakumo, why did you speak against the Lady of the Western Lands? You, being as old as you are, know that not accepting the miko is the same as turning your back upon the West. Why would you do so regardless of consequences?" Sesshoumaru removed the foot and the man gasped for breath, air filling his lungs as he devoured it hungrily.
"B-bastard!" Sakumo hissed softly and Shigure stepped forward, nervously wringing his naked tail back and forth within his small hands.
"May I, Sesshoumaru-sama?" Shigure murmured softly. Sesshoumaru nodded his head and took astep back while the smaller youkai stepped forth and in front of Sakumo. "We kill those we deem treasonous, Sakumo-san and your death will be most unpleasant if you do not tell us what we need to know. All we would like to know is why, nothing more or less. For your sake - " he was cut off as a ball of saliva hit his cheek, the normally regal youkai spitting at the nezumi. Shigure's eyes beady, black eyes narrowed for just a moment as he wiped the spit off his cheek with the back of his hand.
He stared at the other youkai for just a moment before striking out and back-handing the elemental with a hit that knocked his head once more against the wall and had him seeing black spots dance across his vision. Nalia wrinkled her nose at the display but was otherwise quiet, knowing that interrogation and torture were not where her abilities lie. She was an ambassador, she negotiated terms, she did not wheedle information. Ichiro on the other hand was a strategist and he ws very good at what he did and he was already coming up with ways to find the information they needed. He was a hardened warrior and unlike Nalia, he had been on the battlefield for centuries where there were no rules and regulations. If you needed information, you did what ever you had to in order to extract the information.
"Sakumo... " Shigure sighed softly. "I warned you." The nezumi stood and turned his back to the elemental as Sesshoumaru once again walked forward. There was no pity in his gaze as he turned to Ichiro and motioned him to his side.
"You were a warrior once, Sakumo, and you know how these things work. Ichiro will be the one to take over the sessions now. Your healing capabilities are impressive and you heal almost as quickly as you are wounded. We will see how quickly you heal when Ichiro is done with you." Sesshoumaru stated without emotion. "You have seen his work before and know that he is very creative. All I ask is the reason you went against the miko's position and your death will be swift."
"I die regardless, Sesshoumaru, so what does it matter?" the elemental spoke as he looked at the crimson haired inu. "Come, Ichiro, do your worst boy." he taunted, a small curl to his lips. Sesshoumaru turned his back to the duo and he as well as Shigure and Nalia walked away from the cell. There was the soft murmur of voices before the first cry filled the dim. Sesshoumaru's face showed no change though Nalia seemed to have paled. The moment they were out in the open, the crisp air drove away the bitter and acrid scent that filled their nostrils.
"What do you think, Shigure?" Sesshoumaru inquired as he gazed up at the path that headed toward the complex. The prison cells were separated from the town though they were not unguarded. It was actually a small walk back to the Western House from the small stone structure. It had been built with the intention that no youkai would be able to hear what went on within the cells from the complex or the town.
Shigure stepped forward before speaking, "I believe he is in fact hiding something important. If he had not, he would have stated outright why he disagreed with Kagome-sama becoming Lady of the West." Sesshoumaru nodded his head once before flickering his gaze to Nalia, motioning for her with a nod of his head for her to share her views.
"I think Sakumo-san was hiding something as well. He is very straight forward normally but he danced around the topic and never gave an outright answer." Again, Sesshoumaru nodded before took in a deep breath, allowing the crisp air to sting his lungs pleasantly.
"We have several issues to discuss as we walk." he intoned as they began their trek. "Nalia, you will inform fill in Ichiro when we are done here. The first issue is the miko and her guard. Takeshi is no longer employed as part of the Western army. He is no longer a general. He belongs now to the Lady of the House of the Moon."
There was a sharp intake of breath before Nalia began to speak rapidly, her words jumbling. "He's one of the stronger generals, is that wise Sesshoumaru-sama? Has she been told? Does she know why? What it means?"
"At this point... the miko is unaware and I would like her to remain that way until she has settled in. She has just returned from a traumatic experience and I do not wish to pile this on her until she can handle the shock." Shigure and Nalia exchanged a glance and the scent of unease filled the evening air. Sesshoumaru stopped and turned to face the youkai behind him, golden eyes narrowed. "Speak."
"Are you saying she cannot handle any shocks, Sesshoumaru-sama?" Shigure inquired tentatively.
"It depends on what the issue may be." he stated with an arch of a fine brow. "Why?"
"Ahhh... " the nezumi hummed softly. "I heard something interesting on my way to the prison... some of the Ladies within the court have it in their heads that Kagome-sama has a hanyou-kitsune kit... that she is not as pure as she had seemed. They believe that she unfit to be the Lady of the Lands and want to challenge her rule as is there right. I ignored such frivolous talk and thought nothing of it."
Sesshoumaru frowned, brows furrowing as he shook his head. "That would be false. Though the miko does have a kit, he is adopted. Where did this rumor start?"
"Reika-sama had stated she heard it from one of the maids." Shigure murmured. His beady eyes flashed upward and he shook his head. "Even though they are false rumors... you cannot wish hold challenge forever, Sesshoumaru-sama."
Sesshoumaru turned away and began walking once more, his booted feet moving silently over the snow. "I do not plan to but she has yet to settle. I pushed the miko too far and she ran and it cost her someone dear."
"Pardon me for asking, Sesshoumaru-sama." Nalia spoke meekly. "But since when has that stopped you before?"
Her grief stricken flashed to the forefront of his mind.
"He is gone Sesshoumaru and it's your fault."
He said nothing as he continued on toward the complex, aware that the miko would be receiving more unpleasant news.
He vaguely wondered why she had to come when his whole house was in state of mess.
.
There was a library, separate from Sesshoumaru's study, filled with floor to ceiling book shelves and each shelf lined with books. She had blinked several times upon seeing the large, spacious room, knowing that books were hard to come by in this era. They were expensive to make and even more expensive to purchase and Sesshoumaru had so many. Kagome had never been a true fan of school reading but she had always liked to sit down and read in the comfort of her own home or when she wasn't running for her life.
So naturally she had been delighted as she touched the books, some of them leather bound, each hand written. She had been surprised to some in a different language. She vaguely wondered if Sesshoumaru had read any of them or if they were merely for show. It was no surprise to Shippo when she finally grabbed a book and settled down by a fire that had been lit in the room. Her small body sunk into the large pillow, relaxing her worn body. There was a fur lined blanket at the edge of the pillows and she tucked it around herself and Shippo had bounded toward her.
Takeshi, on the other hand, had his brows furrowed in question and some wonderment.
Youkai women were not educated. Period.
Ningen women were educated even less then youkai women.
That was just the way things were.
His shock faded as her voice lulled over him, sang to him, and he found himself headed toward the duo. He sat beside them, not on the pillow but close enough, and tucked his hands into his sleeves as he stayed alert and listening for any signs of possible danger. Though, he listened with half an ear to Kagome's story telling. Every now and then she would stop in order to point out a different character for Shippo to read or identify and he would look into the book, scrunch his nose, and try his hardest. Every time though, whether he was correct or not, she offered him a kind smile and an encouraging word.
It was endearing to say the least.
Outside the door, over the lull of Kagome's voice, Takeshi heard the distant sound of rapid foot steps as though someone were running. He narrowed emerald orbs, ebony hair standing on end as he stood and motioned for Kagome to shush. His knuckles cracked as he stood before Kagome protectively. Moments passed when the shoji door slid open and Miwa stood there with a slight flush to her cheeks breathing heavily. Her eyes were wide, her ears twitching every so often with agitation.
"Kagome-sama! Takeshi-sama!" she called rapidly as she ran inside and grabbed Kagome's arm. Takeshi attempted to grasp her forearm but Miwa dodged his attempt and threw herself at Kagome's feet. "Kagome-sama, you have to leave right now!" she murmured as she stood again began to tug the other woman.
"What - ? Why?" Kagome asked as confusion marred her features.
"Miwa-san, speak quickly and calmly." Takeshi spoke forcefully and the neko nodded her head before breathing in deeply.
"I was bringing out dinner to a few of the Ladies of the court and they were talking in soft tones. As I was serving the food, I over heard them discussing challenging Kagome-sama for her position tonight." her voice wavered and she took another deep breath. "I came to take her to her rooms within the Eastern Wing. None but those authorized by Sesshoumaru are allowed in that wing and I came to keep her safe."
"Challenge?" Kagome asked. "Sesshoumaru-sama had mentioned that before during my coming out." The day still left a semi-bitter taste in her mouth as she spoke of it. She hadn't wanted her position at all then and even though she still didn't want it now, she was less reluctant.
"So you ask that she run?" Takeshi spoke ignoring Kagome as though she hadn't said a word.
"Oh Takeshi-sama." Miwa whispered urgently. "They are youkai, The Ladies of the Lesser Court, and you know just as well as I that none become apart of the High or Lesser Courts by being pretty."
"What are you talking about?" Kagome finally asked. "What court?"
Takeshi sighed softly, his eyes closed, as he ran a hand through his thick hair. "Let me explain, Kagome-sama." he turned toward her, his eyes hard. "You have met the High Court, Sakumo-sama, Ichiro-sama, Shigure-sama, and Nalia-sama. They are the advisers. During your coming out, there were several dozens of other youkai milling about. They are the Lesser Court and they consist of youkai that have provinces within the West, Generals with the army, sons and daughters of minor lords, and youkai females that fancy themselves in love with Sesshoumaru-sama and would like to be his mate." Kagome nodded her head, taking in all the information. "The night of your coming out, Sakumo-sama had challenged your right to be the Lady of the Western Lands and it was denied due to your lack of knowledge on the subject. A challenge is initiated when one believes that the Lord or Lady cannot due their duties. Apparently, these females have it in their head you are not up to par with them and want to challenge your right to rule. Remember, even if Sesshoumaru-sama does take a mate, the Western title remains with you due to the bond created with Sesshoumaru-sama."
"How does one become part of the Lesser Court?" she inquired.
"By challenging and killing the previous holder of that position they gain whatever they had previously owned. It could range from lands, title, mate, etc."
"What is a challenge?" Kagome asked softly.
"A fight until one gives in or to the death. If you give in then the other has the right to either let you live or to take your life." he murmured gravely. "Rarely is the other left to live, Kagome-sama."
"She is ningen and therefore cannot possibly begin to understand what 'challenge' means and what it entails so I do speak for her in this sense."
She pursed her lips as Sesshoumaru's voice filled her head and she took a deep, soothing breath. She was frustrated by everything that continued to happen lately. The day Sesshoumaru gives her to herself was about to end in a nightmare, she could feel it. The foreboding feeling settled within her stomach and she looked down at the bundle in her lap. She brushed his bangs from his eyes and smiled up at her. The child had seen far more then she had ever wanted but it was times like these she was grateful that he had seen what he had. He was aware of the dangers and possible death but he wouldn't throw fits or cry and scream at the first hint of danger.
True, he was somewhat cowardly, always yelling to be saved but he was child and that was expected because he couldn't defend himself. "Are you going to fight again, Mama?" he asked slowly. "Inuyasha isn't here to protect us."
"I know Shippo-chan." she murmured. "Can you go with Miwa-san? She'll feed you!"
Shippo nodded and patted her cheek with a small hand, gave her smile, and pecked her nose. "Just be safe!" Shippo leaped from Kagome to Miwa's arms and the neko caught him effortlessly, her eyes wide.
"Surely you don't plan to accept challenges, Kagome-sama!" she exclaimed as Kagome stood, brushing her kimono of invisible dust. "Do you have any combat training at all?"
"Not really." Kagome shrugged. "I'm skilled with a bow and arrow and I can control my powers to some extent... sometimes." she muttered sheepishly.
"Oh, Kagome-sama!" Miwa whispered horrified. "Our court members are skilled and if you are not up to their skill you are a goner! Even if you are a miko, if you do not know what you're doing then what good is fighting?"
Kagome stood straight and gave the neko a gentle smile. "Miwa-san... " she began patiently though inwardly she was stung. For a long time she had felt useless and what Miwa had just said, brought back a lot of painful memories. Because she was right... what good were her powers if they were useless? "It's not about whether or not I can use them to their full potential. It's about meeting these challenges head on. What good does it look if I run? What example does it say? What does it look like upon the West?"
Takeshi nodded his head approvingly and knew Sesshoumaru was ridiculously lucky that it was Kagome he was bound to and not some fool that wouldn't have thought before leaping right ahead.
"I-I-" Miwa swallowed and nodded her head. "You are right, Kagome-sama."
"Now please take Shippo to the kitchens for a little while. I'll be there shortly." Her smile didn't waver until Miwa and Shippo were out of sight and then it withered like a flower in winter. She turned serious eyes toward Takeshi and sighed. "How bad is it?"
"Terribly so, Kagome-sama. These challengers can be ruthless." he murmured softly.
"I see. Where is Sesshoumaru?" she intoned gently.
"Last I heard he was at the prisons and will not be back to later in the evening." Kagome nodded her head and sighed.
"My chances?" she asked lowly, cerulean gazing into dazzling emerald. He looked at the hope within her eyes and pursed his lips, unwilling to lie but unwilling to tell the truth.
"Fair." he finally murmured. "Your chances are fair."
"Liar." she murmured playfully, eyes twinkling, no real heat in the word. "Tell me, quickly, how these things go."
"They initiate challenge and you accept or deny. Denial is a sign of strength, acceptance a sign of foolishness. There are no terms to negotiate. You simply fight." Kagome nodded her head and something within him tightened. Was it apprehension, he felt? Or was it fear? "You are brave, Kagome-sama." he murmured gently as he touched her shoulder. She shook her head at him. "Brave and strong."
"No. I am frightened." she responded. "I am just a child in my ti- village." she corrected quickly. "Honestly, Takeshi-san, I just want to go home." Kagome murmured. "I did not ask for this, I do not want it, but I can not run away from it. All I can do is make the best of it and think before I act. It's not bravery that keeps me here, it's obligation. Obligation to do what is right is great motivation."
"Regardless of the reasons, you are here, are you not?"
"I am. I wish Sesshoumaru were here though." she grouched. "I hate to say it, but with the jerk here, I'd feel better."
Takeshi chuckled, "You would not be the only one, I assure you. Sesshomaru-sama's gift is comfort, believe it or not."
"I don't." she snorted. "Care to explain?"
"Sesshoumaru-sama is one of the most powerful youkai to walk this earth at this time. It is only natrual that his subjects be comforted when he is near rather then away." Kagome nodded her head and sighed, agreeing completely. She may not have completely liked the youkai but it was true. With him near, she knew she would be far safer from possible threats rather then alone. "Should we wait for him?"
:No, Kagome-sama, I don't think it is wise. We must do this quickly."
Takeshi's eyes softened slightly as he watched her prepare herself for possible threats. Females were ruthless and Kagome, though female, was not.
"So what is going to happen?" she asked as she turned her eyes upward, her fingers moving over one another in a steady pattern.
"We leave this room and we confront them before they confront us. This way, it will seem like you had been aware of this rather then caught off guard." Kagome nodded her head and Takeshi gestured for her to follow him as he left the library.
"Do you know where they are?" Takeshi nodded his head. He gripped her arm in his hand and placed it within the crook of his elbow. He leaned his head close to hers and began speaking in low tones. His voice was velvet sin moving along her body and she had to keep from shivering at the way his hot breath rolled over her ear.
"Youkai appreciate confidence, power, and cruelty." he murmured slowly. "You lack confidence and cruelty but power you have in abundance. You must do what is necessary to succeed here and if you must be cruel be cruel. If you must be ruthless be as ruthless as possible. If you must show no mercy, then do not show mercy. Youkai are bloodthirsty creatures as heart no matter how well they hide it."
Kagome turned her cerulean gaze upward at him as she slid on her wooden sandals and they headed out into the cold, "Even you Takeshi-san?" she inquired.
He offered her a slow smirk that scream hunger, his eyes darkening with malicious intent as he chuckled slowly. "Even I, Kagome-sama." As abruptly as it came though, it left his face, leaving the guard she had come to call her friend. "Do yo understand though?"
"I do." she whispered. They left the front doors of the complex and wandered to one of the small houses on the grounds. Though by small, it was smaller then the Western House but as large as a minor lord's manison. It was beautifully made with oak floors polished to perfection and perfectly white walls. "What is this?"
"This is where several of the more ambitious ladies live."
"Ambitious?" Kagome asked slowly.
"Yes." he nodded his head solemnly. "Most of them would like to be Sesshoumaru-sama's mate. When Sesshoumaru-sama needs a companion for the evening, he comes to find one here. They are here specifically for Sesshoumaru-sama's leisure and most believe he will choose a mate amongst them."
For a moment Kagome did a slowly, long blink as she processed what was just said. "They are Sesshoumaru's concubines."
Takeshi offered her a shrug, "In a sense."
"So this is Sesshoumaru's personal harem." The miko turned to him and shook her head as Takeshi said not a word but his silence was enough. "They are here of their own will?"
"Yes. All of them. Most are daughters of minor lords that want to see them married off to Sesshoumaru-sama." Kagome nodded her head and slowly ascended the steps to the front door, Takeshi by her side. She opened the shji door and entered the lovely decorated home. There were plants in various potted plants that had somehow survived the winter, paintings along the walls as well as tastefully placed furniture. The sound of laughter could be heard to the far right and Kagome disposed of her shoes and walked toward the voices.
Her breathing was shaky for a moment but she slowly settled down and walked down the hall. There was a door to the left and she pursed her lips before Takeshi knocked. There were several 'shushing' noises before a soft, musical voice called out. 'Come in.'
The door opened and Takeshi entered first as her guard, accessing the room. It was, like the rest of the harem home, tastefully decorated. There was a large table within the center where at least twelve youkai sat, each more beautiful then last. They were currently munching on fruit and other fare, their eyes moving along the guard in appreciation. There were large, comfortable pillows on the floor as well as blankets strewn here and there. There were several paintings lining the wall and a large double door that led to the outside and could be opened within the winter. To the far left there was a large fire burning keeping the room a comfortable temperature.
"Takeshi-san, what brings here?" a seductive, low voice called, having not seen the small woman behind the large youkai.
"Business." he stated coolly as he moved to the side and allowed Kagome to enter the room. There were several audible noises ranging from hissing to indignant screeching.
A lovely wood land nymph stood, her mint green skin meshing lovely with the white and grey kimono she wore. It had several geometric patterns and was layered perfectly. The obi around her waist was made of a sheer material and her dark green hair faded to white at the tips. Her eyes were a green that rivaled Takeshi's and they were currently narrowed in anger, her tall, lithe body standing straight. "You dare bring the woman here, Takeshi-san?" she snapped angrily, her alluring voice harsh with fury.
"She is the Lady of the Western Lands and has the right to go where she wishes." he shrugged slowly.
"She is not the true Lady of the Western Lands." the nymph sneered, her lovely features contorting into an ugly mask of hate. "The Lady of the Moon House should not be some ningen whore!"
"So she should be a youkai whore instead?" Kagome asked, her temper rising with being called a whore. The nymph gaped at her for a moment before growling lowly as another woman released a bark of laughter. Kagome turned to the voice and took in the features a youkai with deep blue hair that seemed to change with every movement, darkening to almost black, then sea-green, and even sky blue, changing with the way light reflected off of it. Her eyes were obsidian, the whites of her eyes devoured by darkness. Her skin was sunless pale and her teeth razor sharp. Her fingers seemed to be webbed together and Kagome could not identify the woman's species no matter how hard she stared.
"A feisty thing, aren't you, Miko-sama." she murmured, her voice a soothing soprano octive. Her body was voluptuous under the the yukata she wore, obviously comfortable in less clothing. "And to answer your question, a ningen whore is lesser then a youkai one."
"I am untouched." Kagome responded airily, though inside she was trembling. Power rolled off these women in waves, teasing her miko senses as their youki threatened to engulf her.
The nymph snorted, "With a kitsune kit? I think not."
"Shippo-chan is adopted." Kagome snapped and several of the women released snickers.
"More like bastard child." The nymph purred, her eyes sparking maliciously.
Kagome growled, her powers sparking angrily, rising with ire. "I do not have to prove myself to Sesshoumaru-sama's harem. I have not come here to discuss my innocence or lack of there of apparently. I have heard that some of you wish to initiate challenge against me." Several of the youkai woman moved away as her energy rose.
"You heard correct." the youkai with the every changing hair stood, moving beside the nymph. "Whether you are untouched or not is not the question. That scheming bitch Reika has lies to spare and I do not doubt that she lied about you as well. The question is whether you are fit to lead. Some of us have been here for decades, waiting for Sesshoumaru-sama to choose his Lady of the Lands. You have no right to take that title. For even if he does take a mate, she would not have the power and prestige that comes with the position."
"You act as though I wanted this." Kagome hissed angrily.
"Whether you wanted the position or not it is yours and only a lost challenge can remedy that... or your death." the nymph murmured maliciously. "It is something that can be accomplished unless you want to deny challenges."
"No." the miko responded coolly. "I will not deny challenges. As the Western Lady, I won't run from a cheap whore."
The smile on the nyph's face fell and she took a step forward. "Then I challenge your right to lead, filthy ningen."
"Challenge accepted."
With that the nymph leaped, her eyes swallowed by a green light, a dark laugh filling the air.
.
"Reika-sama." A maid called gently as she bowed before the golden inu. Reika stopped running the brush through her hair and looked at the maid, watching her through the mirror.
"What?" she growled lowly.
"K-Kagome-sama has gone to the Harem House to confront the harem. A challenge has been initiated between Kagome-sama and Ástridr-sama." For a moment Reika's face was blank before she began laughing loudly. The maid flinched as Reika released completely joyous sounds. "R-Reika-sama?" the maid inquired softly.
"Oh this is perfect!" she chuckled femininely, wiping her eyes. "Ástridr is no doubt stronger then that ningen girl and I am stronger then Ástridr! Once she kills the girl then I'll challenge the nymph!" she smiled brightly, her beautiful face lighting up happily. "I wanted to be the one to kill the girl but this is fine as well. Thank you, you may leave now."
The maid scurried off, Reika's laughter filing her ears, and leaving her weak in the knees with fear.
.
'Gome Yuki:: Alright guys, I am SO sorry for the wait but this chapter is 7,000 words as a thank you for being patient. I was sick for a little while and then work has been hell. I also lost a drive to write for a few days. I received a flame that wasn't very nice from 'Kitty123'. She said that my story was TOO similar to Forthright's 'Unspoiled' [said I stole her plot] and she was going to report this story until it was removed and they are absolutely NOT similar in the slightest. I actually considered dropping the story because of it but I couldn't do it D: THIS IS MY BRAIN BABY! Once again, I apologize in the delay. This would have been out last week but it just wasn't happening with all the BULL SHIT that happened.
On another note, I love you guys! Someone actually reviewed as 'Takeshi' and asked for a Takeshi/Kagome/Sesshoumaru story. Sorry, love, but request DENIED, haha. I swear there will be a TakeshixKagome thing happen but this is ultimately a SesshoumaruxKagome.
The name 'Ástridr is actually a Norse Name and I thought it suit pretty well. It means 'Divine Beauty'
Q & A:
Do you plan on finishing this story? It's been here since 2008.
Yes, I do plan on finishing this. I just reconstructed it. As you can see , I am reconstructing everything I have ever written.
Do you have a story line/plot?
Yes, I do actually :3
Why does Sesshoumaru care about what others think of him?
He doesn't but with ruling comes responsibility and you do have to think about what others think because his actions dictate the future of his people.
Won't they realize there is no reason for challenge once they realize she is pure?
Nope because they still want the title. Though it goes with her when she does die, a new Lady still has to come into power.
You know the drill! 30-40 reviews please! :D I LOVE YOU ALLLLLLL!