Woot! Hello my lovelies! I hope you've kept your patience with me! I've been busy with school and barely had time to write but I managed to get this done somehow! Anyways, enjoy!


Chapter 12 : Final Judgement

Rin

Rin rolled over in bed, shielding her face from the intruding sun. She sat up, a yawn escaping her as she stretched. Shippo still lay sleeping next to her. Feeling refreshed, the adventurous girl hopped out of bed. Jaken was up as well, sitting on the bed opposite hers.

"I see you're awake Rin." he said.

She nodded. "Good Morning Jaken-sama." she greeted.

The imph hopped off the bed and went toward the door. "Come on." he said, "Lets get you something to eat."

Rin nodded, turning to wake the kitsune so he wouldn't be left behind. Once he was awake, the three left the room. Rin turned to the door next to theirs. Kimara was sure to have been hungry as well.

"Go on without me, I'll catch up." Rin yelled back to her companions.

The young girl knocked on the door and waited a few moments. When there was no answer, she took it upon herself to let herself in. The room was lit with the sunlight and she saw that Yura's bed was empty. She then turned her head to see Kimara's occupied bed.

"Kimara?" she whispered, gently shaking her.

The action rewarded her, kimara rolling over toward her. Her face seemed somewhat relaxed as she slept soundly. She wondered what she could've been dreaming about. The young woman stirred slightly before opening her eyes to meet Rin's large brown ones. It brought a smile to her face.

"Good Morning Rin." she said sofly.

The child grabbed her in an embrace and she returned it. "I hope you slept well." Rin said happily.

Kimara stood to her feet, stretching and yawning. "I slept very well." she said, "I appreciate your concern."

Rin smiled merrily and grabbed her hand, pulling her from the room and down the hallway. Kimara smiled at the girl's early morning enthusiasm. It was the one thing that made her mornings so enjoyable.


-Court-

"Court is now in Session!" boomed the voice of the bear demon.

Everyone took their places within their respected seats. Kagome took in the sight of the many self-important demons here. She swallowed the fear that threatened to swell within her and turned her eyes to her husband. The court officials and high-ranking officers were seated around them, each giving looks of disdain. A tiger demon stood to his feet.

"Sesshomaru, Lord of the West and Son of Inu No Taisho, come before the court."

Inuyasha looked over as his half-brother since he'd been glaring at him the entire time He wondered why the Youkai court had summoned him here as well. Sesshomaru stood before the court, his golden eyes leering up at the men and women before him.

"Sesshomaru, you have been given multiple chances to find a mate and you have ignored every one of them." said Kuro, "Do you have an explanation for this?"

The young lord simply looked up at the southern lord with much distaste. "I find no need for a mate or heirs. It will be a waste of time to put up with something as annoying as Inuyasha." he said in response, "Because of such creatures, my father died a miserable death!"

Inuyasha stood up in protest. "I don't care what you say about Father but don't blame my mother for your insecurities!" he shouted.

Sesshomaru turned sharply to the hanyou. "Shut your mouth half-breed!"

"SILENCE!"

Those words rang throughout the room, quieting everyone. Their senseless bickering had annoyed everyone but one individual had the nerve to say something. Sesshomaru looked up to see his mother, Tsukiko. She wore a look of disdain as she looked down upon her son.

"This is not some playground." she growled, "This is a formal setting and you will treat it as such, the both of you!"

Inuyasha growled but took his seat and mumbled under his breath. Sesshomaru turned back to Kuro who conversed with Hironori and a few other demons. After a few moments, the few looked into his direction. This time, Seiji, the bear demon spoke.

"From what Hironori has told me, you have a human woman traveling with you." he said, "Is that true?"

Kagome bit her lip, deep in thought. Did they mean Kimara? And if so, what were they going to say? She was more than curious. She could only pray that she wouldn't get punished for traveling with him. Even Tsukiko was more than surprised to hear about a human other than the child named Rin.

Sesshomaru looked at Hironori in aggravation but his demon blood would not allow him to lie about that as much as he wanted to. "Yes, she is Rin's protector." he answered, "What about her?"

The demons conversed once more, this time for a bit longer. It even had Inuyasha a bit curious as to what the old fools were scheming. Tsukiko watched them with caution. The elder demons turned back to Sesshomaru which instantly sent an uncharacteristic chill down his spine. Yura smirked to herself.

" We will have a recess until noon." said Hironori, "The girl needs to be present for the next session. Court Dismissed."

Sesshomaru couldn't believe this. Why had these old fools decided on having her here? It was bad enough that Inuyasha's human was stinking up the place but to have another? It was unfathomable.


Rin, Shippo, and Kimara

After having eaten to their fill, the three thanked the kind staff and left to explore as stated by Rin. They walked down the hallway, Rin pulling Kimara by the hand and Shippo hurrying to keep up.

"You're pretty familiar with the castle." said Shippo, "have you been here before?"

Rin looked back at her and smiled. "Yes." she answered, "Plenty of times. We come here every year because of important business Lord Sesshomaru has to take care of."

Kimara listened intently. She could only imagine the many political matters one had to deal with as a Governing lord of the land. It had to be very stressful as well since he solely ran the western lands. It was more or less insane. She couldn't help but be curious as to how he managed to do it all without any assistance. When she came out of her thoughts, she noticed that Rin had let go of her hand and had run ahead.

"Harumi-san!" came the voice of the child.

The deer youkai patted the girl's head as she hugged her. "Its nice to see you Rin." she said sweetly, "Have you been well?"

Rin pulled back and smiled widely. "Yes!" she squeaked, Rin has many new friends now."

Harumi smiled once more, looking up to meet eyes with Kimara and Shippo. These two must have been the friends she was referring to. She couldn't have been happier for the girl. She needed happiness to brighten her life. The young woman's gaze fell on the older human.

"Ah, Kimara." she said, "I was just coming to get you."

Kimara nodded, turning to Rin and stooping to her eye-level. "I have something important that I have to take care of so I'll need you both to be on your best behaviour. Until I return, why don't you show Shippo around the gardens?"

Rin nodded, taking Shippo by the hand. "We'll be on our best behavior." she said, "Let's go Shippo."

Both women watched as the children ran off to go play. Harumi nodded as an indication that she follow her. "To put your troubled mind at ease, I'll send a few servants to keep an eye on them."

Kimara nodded, thankful for her concern as she followed Harumi. She just hoped that her decision would be for the best.


Inuyasha & Kagome

Kagome couldn't help but think about the Court's decision. How had Kimara come up in the conversation? And what was the court planning to do once she was summoned? All of these things seemed to whirl around in her head as her mind tried to process each thought.

"Something isn't right." she said softly.

Inuyasha, who was surprisingly quiet, turned to her in question. "What's not right?"

Kagome turned to him, eyes meeting his. "Well, its the court." she said, "Why would they want to summon Kimara in the next session? What value does she hold to Sesshomaru?"

The hanyou shrugged in annoyance. "I could care less about what those old fools will decide about Sesshomaru let alone that woman." he replied, "It's not any of our business but If I had to guess, I'd probably say it has something to do with the ruling of his lands."


Castle Gardens

Kohana had gone to retire to the Gardens. The fresh crisp air was like heaven to her and the breeze was very refreshing on her skin. She went to a stone pedestal and sat down so she could further enjoy the day. The sounds of laughter reached her ears and as she listened to it, she found she recognized it. It was Rin's playful laughter. The demoness stood to her feet and went to find the young child.

After a few minutes of walking, she found the children playing in the nearby courtyard. She carefully approached so she wouldn't startle them. Rin heard the crunching of the grass as someone walked towards them. She turned and saw Lady Kohana standing there. Why was she here? Immediately, she stood to her feet and bowed in respect. Kohana smiled and patted their heads, signifying that they lift her gaze.

"Good Morning Lady Kohana, how are you?" Rin questioned sweetly.

Kohana smiled, her soul touched by the kindness of the young child. Then she realized that she needed to ask the child about that woman. "Rin, where is your caretaker?" she questioned.

Rin looked up at her with confusion set in her eyes. What did she mean by caretaker? Could she have meant Jaken or...? Then as she thought about it, she came to know who she was talking about.

"Kimara left with Harumi-san after we had breakfast. She told us to play in the gardens until she returned." Rin explained.

Kohana nodded, taking in the information. If she could speak with Kimara, she could learn more about her. This woman was no doubt very important in whatever the plan the court had and she had to do her part as well.


Harumi's Infirmary

Harumi was preparing her instruments as Kimara lay on the examination table. Kimara took in a deep breath, letting her nerves settle and her fear subside. She appreciated that Harumi had made every effort to make her feel comfortable before doing anything.

"Are you starting to relax?" Harumi questioned as she finished up her preparations.

Kimara nodded. Then all of a sudden there was a soft knock at the door. Who would want to disturb her right now and even though she'd placed a sign outside of her door? A bit aggravated, Harumi opened the door but was surprised at who she saw. Without a thought, she quickly bowed.

"My lady, what brings you here?" she questioned, "Is something wrong?"

Kohana shook her head. "Lift your head Harumi." she said softly.

The young woman complied and quickly invited her in to sit down. It wasn't an abnoraml thing to see her ladyship here but to see her in such formal robes was very unnerving. Kohana was silent as the minutes passed but soon looked Harumi in the eyes. She then explained her reason for coming here and Harumi listened intently.

"I understand my lady but Kimara..."

Kohana looked at her quizzically. Could she not agree to her request? Harumi sighed. "...Kimara needs to be treated for an injury and I was about to start the procedure but it seems I am pressed for time."

"Pressed for time?" a voice questioned, "What do you mean?"

The two women turned to see Kimara standing in the doorway. Her violet eyes held confusion but upon seeing Kohana, she inclined her head to her in respect. Kohana stood to her feet and gestured for Kimara to follow her. The young woman looked after her then to Harumi who only put a hand on her shoulder and nodded.

"I'll be ready to start the procedure as soon as you return." she said softly, leaving the room so they could talk.

Kimara nodded before hurrying outside to meet Kohana. "Did you summon me, my lady?" she questioned as she bowed.

The demoness nodded. "Yes, I've come to discuss some important matters with you." she answered, "And as you've heard, time is of the utmost importance so please have a seat."

Kimara swallowed hard and tied her yukata's sash tight in nervousness. She went to sit beside the demoness. Kohana observed her closely and knew she was somewhat afraid of meeting with her so suddenly. But at this close distance,she could tell that this young woman was smart and she was very beautiful.

"I am very surprised." said Kohana, "The son of the great Inu no Taisho is known for his strong distaste of humans. But recently, we have been shocked to learn that he is traveling with a human child. At first, we thought she was only a pet, but we learned that he had protected her numerous times."

Kimara was absolutely baffled. This beautiful female demon was speaking confusingly about humans. Why was she saying these things? And what was it about Sesshomaru that intrigued her so?

"What do you mean by all of this?" Kimara questioned as she scooted closer to Kohana and taking hold of her hand, "What about me is so interesting? What does this have to do with Sesshomaru?"

Kohana nodded, squeezing her hand in her own. "But, what is intriguing to me right now, is you! I was utterly shocked to know that Sesshomaru would take you under his protection. I have to say that you made me very curious so I came here to see you myself. I had to see what makes you so special to the young Lord..."

The young woman felt her cheeks heat up at the mention of being special. There was no way that he would deem her special or anything like that. What could she mean by that? "I think I'm beginning to understand but where do I tie into all of this?"

As she'd said those words, Kohana folded her hands in her lap and looked down at them before looking back up at her. "The Youkai Court has summoned you to the next Court Session which is in a short while." she began, "Many of the details you will understand once you take part in the Court. I only wish I could tell you more but its very important that you attend."

Kimara let her mind process everything she'd just heard. The Youkai Court had summoned her. From what she could tell, it was very vital that she attend but why in the world would they need her, a human? Maybe these other demons were just as curious as Kohana to see what type of person she was? There could be many possibilties. Then again, maybe it could be a little fun.

"It is as you said lady Kohana." she answered, "Though I may not know all of the details, I'll attend the session because I am very curious to know why they would summon a mere human."


Yura & Sesshomaru

The pair walked down the hallway in silence. Yura could feel the anger radiating off of Sesshomaru. She knew better than anyone the reason he was this angry. He would never let this go and relenquish his hatred of the court. The way she saw it, if he'd just take a mate he'd become a little happier and less cold. Although he may not like it, the court was trying to correct his selfish mistake.

"They're being a little risky." Yura said softly, hoping to get something out of him.

Sesshomaru ignored Yura. She wasn't helping by talking and all he could think about was the court. His mind was dead set on this next court session and he just had to know what those old bastards were scheming.


-Court-

Time was winding down and the next court session would soon be upon them. As members of the court entered and took their respected seats, a strange air filled the room. It was something exciting and invigorating as if people looked forward to it. It was defenitely something not found in normalcy. Hironori looked into the many of his youkai bretheren, eyes searching for his expectant wife. He'd known she was a little fatigued from this morning and he remembered seeing her in the Garden before she'd run off. He could only wonder where she could've gone or what she could be up to.


Kimara

Kimara walked silently behind Kohana, her hands in her sleeves. Her heart was beginning to sway, questioning her own decision and her stomach flip-flopped in protest. Maybe she made the wrong decision. Kohana sensed her distress and turned around to see her just standing there, hands pressed to her stomach.

"I don't think I can do this." she said softly, "I'm starting to feel sick."

Kohana placed a hand against her cheek and gently caressed it. "Don't worry." she whispered, "Everything will be just fine and as soon as it's over I'll get you back to Harumi. I know you're in a lot of pain and I'm very worried for your health. Will you be ok?"

Kimara nodded. "Yes." she said, "I'll be fine."

With that taken care of, the two women continued and arrived shortly at their destination. The guards showed their respect before allowing them entry. As Kohana walked, all eyes turned to look at her but soon traveled to the young maiden who trailed behind her. Who was she? No one had time to wonder as court was called to order.

Sesshomaru stepped before the court once more, aggravation burning in his aura. For what purpose had they done this. He absolutely had to know.

"As we said earlier, your lands are in danger if you don't take a mate and birth a worthy heir. It has been in the by-laws for centuries and you are no exception Sesshomaru." said Kuro, "But if you fail, your lands will be given to Inuyasha."

The demon lord of the south then turned to Hironori and nodded. "Young lady, would you please step forward?"

Kimara stood to her feet and proceeded to stand before these demons. She bowed respectfully before lifting her head to look up at Hironori. "Yes, milord?"

The lord of the south looked down at her. "What is your name girl?" he questioned, a somewhat arrogant tone in his voice.

The young woman turned her gaze on him. "My name is Kimara."

Kuro nodded. "Ah yes." he said, "How long have you been traveling with Sesshomaru?"

The question struck her as odd but she did not say anything about it. "Its been about a month and a half." she answered, "I have only done so because, I am Rin's protector."

Seiji realized that Kuro was merely toying with her as he did with anyone he deemed weak. It was so aggravating so he took matters into his own hands.

"Please excuse Lord Kuro for his conduct." Seiji said, "But Kimara, you say you are the protector of the child Rin, correct?" Even if that is so , why have you stayed with him? Any normal human would've fled long ago."

Kimara nodded. "Many people have said that." she began, "Its true that I've had my terrifying experiences and I've wanted nothing more than to leave and never return. I stayed on the account of owing a debt to the Lord of the West and I was fully intent on repaying that debt. But then I found a light in the darkness, a little girl named Rin and after learning of this girl's sad story, I wanted to stay here just a little longer if it meant that she would be happy. If I could somehow help to mend her broken heart, I felt It would be worth staying."

The room was silent as her words resonated. Then all of a sudden, laughter broke that silence. Yura winced as the disturbing sound pierced her ears. Even Sesshomaru lost composure for a moment. Tsukiko rolled her eyes. Men were so melodramatic. Kimara looked up to see that it was Kuro who was the source.

"Do you think that a dai-youkai really needs a pathetic human like you,who is a disgrace to his reputation, to take care of what belongs to him?" he laughed, "The idea is absolutely ludicrous!"

Sesshomaru looked over at the human woman in caution. He knew a fiery answer was sure to surface any minute now. The young woman clenched her kimono sleeves and looked up at Kuro, eyes swirling with anger. She opened her mouth to give a retort but a flash of fabric startled her. Yura now stood in front of her.

"You're out of line Kuro!" she yelled, "I see nothing funny in this matter. You asked a question and she answered it, plain and simple!"

Kuro was clearly angered. "How dare you!" he raged, "You may be a demon but you are also a female! Still your tongue!"

Tsukiko stood to her feet, all eyes immediately going to her. Yura quickly kneeled in respect. Kimara looked up at the woman in awe.

"Kuro, stay your tongue." she said, turning to Kimara, "It is as Yura said. This young woman only did what she was told. You may continue young lady."

Kimara looked up at Kuro, eyes dark with aggravation. "I may be human and I may be seen as a mere woman but, I only ask for respect and in turn, I will do the same." she said softly before going to her seat.

The lords conversed again, hopefully deciding Sesshomaru's final judgement. Seiji looked to the young lord.

"Sesshomaru, lord of the western domain, the court has given you until the first cherry blossom blooms next spring to find a mate." he explained, "And If you do not, you will suffer dire consequences."


And there you have it folks! The court has spoken and Sesshomaru is given a time limit to find a mate and to produce an heir. He still thinks that he does not need one but he's forced to find one or his brother will become lord of the west. Will the court's decision finally have an effect on him or will he give in? Find out in the next chapter which will be full of new characters and mores sesshy sexiness for your enjoyment!

Goodbye, but not forever

EmikoSakura27