Bold Italicized words are for telepathic speech.

Italicized for thoughts.

tora-tiger youkai

koumori - bat

Name of Sesshomaru's mother in this is- Ariake -dawn with the moon still out

the name of the exiled heroine is: Boumeisha- means exiled, refugee

the name of the ninja village is: Haisho- place of banishment

the name for sprite in Japanese is Yousei

the name for the tora from Haisho is Moushou- brave warrior in Japanese

the name of the Northern Lady Hokkai-northern sea

bear - kuma

Hokkai's 2nd son-Aoihi- blue flame

Chapter 13

Everyone was able to settle down for the remainder of the evening. Mei and Hokkai were able to return to their beds to rest for the few short hours before the rising of the sun. After sunrise, several youkai rose for the day. Some were meditating, having breakfast or going to train. Mei and Kagome met up with Hokkai and Shizu on the way to the dining hall for breakfast. The four women were dressed in comfortable hakamas and haori, suitable for fighting. After a traditional breakfast, they were to head to the dojo for some exercise. Something that was done every morning to stay sharp. Hokkai's two sons were already up and on the practice fields that were part of the palace grounds. They wanted to get outside early in an attempt to catch the eyes of the females who also rose early to watch the training.

On this morning, there was another that met the four women in the dining hall. It was Kouga. He approached the low table the women were sitting around, very informal and relaxed. "Well, this is a very lovely sight for an equally lovely morning," he greeted in his sexy, gravelly voice. He was very happy to see Kagome in the morning light coming in through the shoji that were open to the garden. He never thought of himself as a poet but he felt like one when he thought of how Kagome looked with the sun shining on her. He noticed that her hair was braided down her back in a thick rope, tied off with a white band. She was dressed in deep blue hakamas and matching haori with a black sash tied around her waist to keep the haori tight. This intrigued the ookami. "What are your plans for this fine morning, my lovely Kagome?"

Kagome smiled in greeting, with a faint blush to her cheeks. She had noticed the very handsome ookami male. He had his long, thick, black hair pulled up into a ponytail and a head band to keep his bangs off his forehead. He was wearing black hakamas and a loose haori. The haori was left partially open, showing a hint of his light bronze chest. Kagome had definitely noticed. She received a slight nudge from Shizu, a sort of congratulations for having caught this male's eye. "I am going to out to train this morning. I try to do so every morning, if I'm not too busy or tired." She answered with a warm smile. She was touched that this handsome male was interested in her. "Would you like to join us for breakfast?" she asked, gesturing to the setting of miso soup, rice, pickled vegetables and cooked fish.

Kouga gave Kagome his real smile for her offer, "I would love to, but I was on my way to the training yard myself. I already had breakfast. But, I will be waiting for you, my Kagome."

Kagome watched him leave the dining hall with a small smile. It quickly turned into a blush when she noticed the other three women smiling in her direction. "What?! He seems very nice." Suddenly her breakfast was quite fascinating. At least until she could get her blushing cheeks to cool.

Mei and Hokkai said nothing, just smiled and finished their breakfast. Shizu had no problem adding her thoughts. "Wow, Kagome, you are so lucky to have such a handsome male interested in you. I can't wait for that to happen to me!"

Hokkai just shook her head, thinking about her sons, who are looking for mates now. Or at least for a female at the moment. Hokkai could stand to wait a little while for her daughter to start looking seriously, thank you! She was beginning to feel old.

Breakfast finished with only Kagome and Shizu enjoying a bit of girl talk. Only Mei and Hokkai were silent. Both older women were busy thinking about what they learned last night. This was not boding well for Mei. Her past was planning to rear its ugly head and Mei was going to have to face it down, at last. And at least two in the shinobi corps have a slight idea of Mei's violent past. Mei always knew she would tell her clan about her past, but out of fear, she was hoping to never have to mention it. Now, she would have to and soon if what Lann said was accurate. And she will, but, she was worried about dragging those around her into the fray. They did not deserve to suffer her fate. She was willing to die destroying that monster, but she would be damned if she would risk her clan. That she will not do. And against her wishes, her memories of a darker time began to surface. A time of pain, fear, desperation and humiliation.

She was concentrating so hard, she almost did not hear Kagome's gasp. When she noticed it, she also saw Shizu with tears in her eyes and Hokkai's open concern. Mei realized that she was sharing some of her emotions from a particularly dark time in her past with those sitting closest to her. She was so worried about what was to come and about revealing her past that she did not shield away tight enough. It was only emotions, but it gave the two young girls and any of her shinobi that were nearby an idea of her pain and her fears. Mei did not say anything, could not really say anything at this time. She just stood and quietly left the dining hall, concentrating on her mental shields. She was outside on the front steps before the others could leave the dining hall. She began to walk, aimlessly, to the training yard, where the western military trained each day. Today, the eligible males were also outside training. It was InuTaisho's idea. He thought it would attract the females and then they could pick their mates a little easier. He was a little tired of so many people under his roof. He could not seem to wait till he can have peace and quiet again.

The training grounds were to the east of the front palace stair. The ground had been trample a bit from continued use but there were well tended trees surrounding the grounds and near the outer wall. The day was quite nice for morning training, warm with a cool, soft breeze blowing in. The men were training in various training gi and training with or without weapons. Some were trying to impress the group of females that were standing under the shade trees with their prowess, but most were honestly training. Mei barely noticed at first, so lost in her own thoughts. But she, herself, did not go so unnoticed. She was almost immediately noticed by a particular male youkai on the training grounds.

Is it so wrong to wish for some peace and quiet? Like what I had before this crowd descended upon my home? InuTaisho thought as he noticed his two sons were sparring, no weapons, with each other. At least they are outside and not inside breaking the antiques. He had just finished a sigh at this thought, when he noticed something interesting. He noticed a sudden stiffening in his eldest son's posture and he even paused for a heartbeat. This occurred just as a light breeze blew from the direction of the palace front steps. Sesshomaru seemed suddenly alerted by something, but what? Despite the early hour, there was a growing crowd of females up this morning to watch the eligible males. But, this group did nothing to draw his eldest son's attention in any way. He had even made it a point to ignore their calls of admiration and love. He did not seem to be very interested in any of the females that have been here. The noticeable change in Sesshomaru's posture caused a round of oohhhs to come from the females. When he paused, even for just a few heartbeats, it was to inhale deeply the new scent on the breeze. This caused Inuyasha to raise an eyebrow. He resumed his sparring match with his younger brother, but now he was suddenly more aggressive in his attacks. He was usually very hard on his half brother whenever they trained, but he became more serious than usual. And with Sesshomaru being a perfectionist, this was saying something. It was almost as if he was trying to show he was the better fighter, the better choice. But, what happened to suddenly cause this? Or better yet, who could have appeared? InuTaisho scanned the gathered women and noticed one that had stopped, just at the edge of the crowd. She was one of the new females that was seated near their table last evening. She looked a bit different with her hair in a thick, simple, braided rope down her back. She was watching Sesshomaru, no real surprise, but it was the way she was watching him that was different. She appeared to be following his movements as if she were memorizing them. To InuTaisho, she did not seem to realize the way she was watching his eldest. Interesting, indeed, and he seem to know exactly when she appeared, he thought as he returned his gaze to his eldest. InuTaisho noticed how Sesshomaru kept turning Inu Yasha around so the younger male's back was facing the crowd. This would allow Sesshomaru to see the group of admiring women. He was attempting to find the one that had just arrived, the one that was affecting his senses. He did not seem to be in control of himself, it was as if he had to find the source of the scent. This was something that InuTaisho, himself, experienced when he first met Ariake, centuries ago. He could not control himself, just as his eldest was having difficulty doing now.

Yes, by his moves, he appears to know she is here. Somehow, without looking or with only a light breeze barely blowing her scent this way, he knows she is here. This particular female. Interesting. InuTaisho decided that he would continue to watch his son and study his reactions to this particular female.

Mei was trying not to think about her painful past, because she seems unable to control who goes along for the ride. This bothered her. She did not want to burden her children with her past, but she was going to have to tell them. She was going to have to prepare them for what was coming there way. It was not something she was looking forward to doing. She was stronger now, but she had to fight like the devil to get there. Some of the things she did brought shame, and fear. She did not want to ever disappoint her children. She was lost in her thoughts as she left the dining hall. She was surprised when she found herself in the training yard. She stopped for no real reason and her eyes instantly latched onto one male in particular, Sesshomaru. She could not seem to help where her eyes went. She watched him spar with his younger brother and he was power in motion.

He was graceful and seemingly flawless in his movements if a bit aggressive. She could see, even through his light training haori, the muscles that were in play along his back as he moved. It was exquisite. Mei seemed almost lost in his movements. When she saw his profile, she caught a glimpse of his state of concentration. She could appreciate that level, she was the same way when she was seriously training. He is wonderful to watch. I am sure he will find a worthy woman in no time,' Mei thought, but for some reason, she did not seem very happy with this thought. She gave a small smile in his direction, he was almost completely turned towards the crowd again. She began to walk around the back of the ooohhhing women. She did not seem to notice that InuTaisho had been studying the reactions of her or his eldest son. And he was not the only one to notice, Hokkai had been able to catch up to her 'sister' and been able to see what was so fascinating.

Hokkai had left the dining hall after reassuring the two young women with her. She said that Mei had some painful secrets and when the time was right, she would tell them what happened to her. Hokkai advised them to just let Mei be for a while. That Mei was just worried about some of the information she received from their prisoners. Kagome and Shizu did not like it, they were worried for their friend, but they also understood. That was when Hokkai had left the dining hall to find her sister. She found Mei standing on the edge of the enthusiastic crowd of women, her gaze fixed forward. Hokkai was not really surprised to find who had her sister's attention. She smiled and approached Mei, who was walking behind the attentive crowd of women. Mei was trying to keep her eyes forward rather than stare at Sesshomaru any more. "You know, frowning is against the law," Hokkai started, getting Mei's attention and a small answering smile. Hokkai knew that Mei could sense her concern and she wanted to help. But, Hokkai knew better than to try to protect Mei from her pain. It did not help. The only thing she could do was offer a smile and a dear friend.

"I am willing to break the law every now and then," Mei answered back, grateful to Hokkai for understanding and being there. Mei was also trying to calm her heart. It was racing a bit after watching Sesshomaru sparring with his younger brother. Mei was silent, just moving towards a group of guards that seemed to be waiting for her and Hokkai. These guards are the ones that accompanied both woman to the Western Palace.

"Well, I did not think you would be joining us this morning," a rumbling, happy, male voice called out. He took in the slightly haunted expression in Mei's eyes and the concern in Hokkai's. So, he decided to cheer up the two women. "Now that the light of my life is here, I can die a happy dragon. Though, I would be much happier to live as your devoted slave."

Hokkai rolled her eyes and Mei just chuckled. "You do not seem to have changed, Aoihi. But, I think you can be a bit too chipper in the morning," was Mei's reply, as she tried to walk past him. She did not get to say much else or get very far because she was quickly grabbed by the same happy male dragon and swung around. Mei was so surprised she even let out a girly squeal as she was lifted off the ground. She tried not to laugh, but could not help it. She let out the happy sound and felt a bit better for the moment. While being spun, she saw the relief on Hokkai, Kagome and Shizu's faces, but something else caught her eye briefly. Sesshomaru, who was not sparring now, had turned his head her way. He did not seem happy about what he was seeing. He was taking a break from his sparring match with his brother. Mei did not understand why she was uncomfortable with his expression. After Aoihi was done spinning her around, he set her down. "I am glad you came out this morning. I get to spend such a beautiful morning with you."

"You have been busy entertaining the ladies here, so I was not expecting to see you much," Mei teased with a smile. This was Hokkai's son, her second. He was a carefree soul and he had always liked being around women. He said he liked the way they smelled and the sound of their voices. "But, you are suppose to be looking for a mate."

"No, I am here with Mother. I have found my woman. But she does not seem to realize it yet," Aoihi said with a deep, dramatic sigh. He even covered his heart with his hand, as if in pain.

Mei and Hokkai just shook their heads, smiling. Shizu actually walked up to her older brother and slapped his arm. "You are such a clown. Stop teasing Aunt Mei and get back to training," she sounded just like her mother then. Hokkai was proud.

Kagome was laughing when she turned her head to see Inu Yasha stretching. He was a lovely sight for her this morning. Dare she say, just as nice as seeing Kouga earlier. Only this was different, he was in motion, unaware of the admiration. Even if it was stretching. His long, silver hair was falling down his back, loose and soft. He was wearing a thin, white training haori and it was fitted well to his torso. She could see the movement of his muscles easily. She was just watching his movements and did not hear Shizu ask her a question. Kagome was utterly fascinated with his movements. Shizu had to nudge her.

"Hey, what's caught your attention, Kagome?" Shizu asked, curious at her friend's inattention. She found what or better yet who had caught Kagome's eye. Shizu smiled and winked. "I see, nice choice there, Kags. He's hot." The last was said in a loud, stage whisper, with no real intention of hiding what she was saying.

Kagome blushed and met Inu Yasha's surprised golden gaze. He had heard the young dragon's teasing of Kagome. He was grudgingly curious as to what had drawn this particular young woman's attention, which was why he turned around. He was pleasantly surprised to find that it was him she had been staring at. She waved and then tried to stop blushing as she smiled, then turned to look at Shizu. Inu Yasha had been keenly aware of her arrival, he seemed to suffer a problem very similar to his elder brother. His heart seems to have sped up a little after receiving a warm smile from her. Why does this one woman affect me so? he asked himself. But, he tried not to think about it. The sons of the west were determined to ignore any reaction they were having to the two intriguing women.

InuTaisho was covertly studying his sons' reactions, wondering. Could it be that they have found their mates already? These women, and so soon after they arrived? InuTaisho was asking himself, amazed but thought to just observe for a couple of days to be sure.

Mei's and Hokkai's guards bowed deeply upon their ladies' arrival and were now continuing their warm up exercises. They were comprised of both males and females within the gathered guard. And the guard with Hokkai seem to show equal respect to Mei for her leadership skills, and her willingness to look after her people. She was similar to Hokkai in that respect. Plus, in Hokkai's guard, some had been with her when she helped their queen gain revenge for the assassination of their king. She had been there, side by side, with Hokkai, guarding her back while Hokkai battled the outcaste male dragon. The one that had murdered her mate and planned to murder her children. Only Hokkai and Mei were able to gain entry to the murderer's lair. She suffered some very serious injuries, some were mortal in their damage, taking on the outcaste's guards alone. But this seemed to be the only way she could allow Hokkai the chance to fight one on one with her mate's murderer, who was a disowned brother of the deceased king. That had earned her a great deal of respect in their eyes. That was not an easy battle and one that Mei could not fight without resorting to using her deeply hidden powers. But those who saw her, died in agony with the exception of Hokkai. And Hokkai remembers what she saw that day and vowed to not tell anyone. Out of gratitude and friendship. Hokkai told Mei over and over again to never be ashamed of her powers. That she was born with them and that she should be proud that she used them to protect, rather than terrorize and needlessly destroy. It was Hokkai that helped Mei to realize she did not need to hate herself.

Hokkai placed a hand on Mei's left shoulder. "Are you ready to head to the dojo? I already asked InuTaisho last night if we could use it for our training exercises today." Hokkai knew that Mei would want to keep her people in top condition for the upcoming battle they both feared was looming. It did not seem to be a possibility, it seemed inevitable. And, neither of them could train their people in the open where everyone could see them. There would be questions. They may not be able to use the dojo all the time, but they will use it as much as possible to train who they can. Everyone in Mei's shinobi corps was in top condition, but that did not mean you stop training. Plus, Mei needed some physical activity to take the growing edge off her nerves and since she had no current lover, a good sparring match will do nicely.

Mei nodded her head and began to walk along side Hokkai, with the girls following. But what caught the western sons' attention was that both sets of guards were also heading to the dojo, with their weapons. What was going on?

InuTaisho began assisting one of his guard with a correction in form, when Inu Yasha approached. "Oy, where are they going?"

"They are using the dojo to train. Hokkai asked me if I would allow it last night. She mentioned that they wanted to train with as little distraction as possible. I saw nothing wrong with this, so I gave them permission. Why do you ask, Inu Yasha?" InuTaisho asked, but he was beginning to guess it was because his son was interested in the younger lady, Kagome. But, he will wait to see what develops first, before attempting to let his second mate, Izayoi, know.

"Feh, no reason. Just wondering where everyone was heading off to. That's all," Inu Yasha was trying to play it cool and cover his interest in what Lady Kagome was doing. It did not really work, especially with his father. His father may be busy being lord of the western lands and a cardinal lord, to boot, but he always made sure he knew his sons and what they were doing. He took an active interest in his sons.

"I believe, the guards are the sparring partners. But, I am not sure. I overheard some of them talking while they were warming up. They seemed quite excited with the possibility of sparring with the Lady Mei, herself, as well as Lady Hokkai. It seems the Lady Mei was once in the Northern army and has earned their respects. It is only what little I have heard in passing. I think you would have to ask her yourself," this last little bit of information was aimed Sesshomaru's way. InuTaisho knew that his elder son would not ask, but he did guess he was curious. He glanced out of the corner of his eye and noted that Sesshomaru was looking in the direction of the dojo. Interesting, indeed.

And as predicted, Sesshomaru turned his head away and began to walk over to an open area. Inu Yasha was following along without being asked. It seemed they were going for another round of sparring. But, a deep voice stopped Inu Yasha, "Hey, brat, have you seen my Kagome? She was supposed to be out here."

Inu Yasha bristled. He turned to Kouga, who was looking around the training yard and even focusing on the ever growing crowd of eligible women. "She said she would be here after breakfast. Where could she be?" Kouga said to himself, he also stopped and sniff the air. He found her scent but the wind was blowing it away.

"Not that it's any of your business, you smelly wolf, but she is in the dojo at the moment," Inu Yasha answered, slightly irritated at the ookami male. His irritation grew when he saw the ookami smile and turn towards the dojo. "Where in the hell do you think you're going, ookami?!"

"I'm going to see my woman, mutt-face. So shut up and butt out." Kouga already found the little human woman to be quite fascinating and realized he spoke the truth. He wanted her and what business was it to this half breed anyway? Kouga was about to take a step in the direction of the dojo when a white, angry blur was suddenly blocking him.

"I don't think I heard you right," Inu Yasha began, through grit teeth. "But did you say Kagome was your woman?"

"You heard right, mutt-face, I want to claim her for my own. Gotta problem with that?" Kouga almost snarled back. What was this guy's problem? he asked himself, then it dawned on him. "You can't have her, mutt-face. I saw her first."

Inu Yasha began to growl at the ookami, challenging him. InuTaisho spoke up, "How about letting the lady decide who she may want? Instead of fighting over her? She may not chose the winner of the fight." Both young males turned to look at him. "She may not like the decision taken from her in such a manner. She seems to me to be a young lady who wants to know that a man wants her. And not to be fought over as if she was a prize. Do you not agree?"

Inu Yasha glared at Kouga, who met the gaze with a glare of his own. "Just stay out of my way, ookami." Inu Yasha moved out of Kouga's way, but before the ookami could take a single step towards the dojo, Inu Yasha barked. "And stay away from the dojo. They want to train, not have you drooling all over the floor." With that parting shot, Inu Yasha rejoined Sesshomaru, who had been patiently waiting throughout the whole discussion. He just seemed uninterested in the verbal fight between his half brother and some ookami. But, he also did not feel the need to tease his half brother about it. For once, he left Inu Yasha alone. They began their training session again, but without any goading or snide remarks.

"What was that all about?" Kouga asked. "It's not like he's said anything about wanting her for himself." Kouga wanted to head to the dojo, to see Kagome but if she went to the dojo to train, he would leave her alone. For now. But when she was done, he was going to ask her to join him and his clan at their table tonight, manners be damned.

In the crowd of females, a few were getting a bit upset. It seemed that these two new arrivals were drawing too much attention from three of the most eligible males at the palace and they were wondering how to handle the situation before it became worse. Only they did not truly know who they were plotting against. They will find out soon enough it's not wise nor healthy to go after Mei or her clan members.

The dojo was a large wooden building that could have held InuTaisho in his true canine form easily. The wood used was a local, thick, dark wood. It was well taken care of both outside and inside. Inside were tatami on the floor and the walls were lined with all different types of weapons. There were oiled silk screen panels in the ceiling to allow much needed natural light in but to resist the rain. All in all, a very fine dojo.

Inside the very spacious dojo, the guards did some more stretching, even though they had been training before the four women arrived. They knew they should be good and limber when sparring under Mei and Hokkai's instruction. Plus, they may be picked to spar with the two older women. The guards were in top fighting form, but there was a reason that Hokkai was still queen of the north and Mei was a high ranking noble, head of a very large village. They were very powerful and very deadly.

Kagome and Shizu would train first. There was enough room in the large dojo for both of them to train without worrying about getting in each other's way. Mei and Hokkai would be monitoring the training, along with the captain of the guards. There also, will be one or two of the undercover shinobi who would be joining the group in the dojo on this morn. They would be in the guise of servants bringing water or towels. This will allow them to report to Mei without raising much suspicion. Mei was not concerned that anyone would be able to overhear anything said while in the dojo. It was warded all to hell to allow for all out training without disturbing those outside and to protect those outside the building from flying bodies, weapons or powers. All Mei had to do was activate the wards and it would be impossible for anyone outside to hear anything.

After the wards were activated, the training began in earnest. Each girl had three opponents and access to any and all weapons that lined the walls of the western dojo. The guards went after the girls with a vengeance, they were instructed to. The two young women needed to stay on top of their training after all, not be babied. If they were babied then they would have little chance of surviving a real attempt on their lives. So, it was a melee of jumps, clashes of weapons, kicks, and power. Thankfully, the dojo's warding was holding for this round of training, but Hokkai and Mei both reinforced it.

The girls were definitely holding their own. They were able to get hits in, but they also received hits. It was an intense training session, but it also seemed that both Mei and Hokkai were pleased. Those they take to train, seldom seem to disappoint. Whether it is those from the northern lands or just Mei's village, everyone understands the importance of training. Not everyone takes to the martial way of life, but enough do that the small number of those who don't can be protected. Shizu and Kagome are two students that, contrary to their personalities, have embraced the martial way of life. They are both gentle, young women, but they also have a fierce need to protect others. It is this protectiveness that makes them rather formidable.

Hokkai and Mei have both expressed a wish that there was no need for any of their clans to have to learn to fight, but it is a very real fact of life in the times they are living in. After about an hour of intense training, Hokkai called a rest. It was much needed, everyone in the session was winded and seemed exhausted not to mention a little beat up. But, they seem to like the results of their workout. They saw where they needed to improved but also where they have learned some new move. There was some good nature grumbling about getting beat up but there was also praise for improvements. There were even a few 'servants,' aka. Mei's shinobi, who brought water and cool, damp towels. The captains of both guard walked up to the two older women.

"Well, not such a sorry lot after all, hhmmm, Lady Hokkai?" the dragon captain asked, in a rumbling voice. He was looking over his guard, feeling proud of them.

"No, not sorry at all, Captain," Hokkai answered, smiling. She knew the captain drilled his squad every day, he wanted them to be in top form. She looked over at the waiting shinobi and glanced at Mei. "What do you want to do now?"

Mei glanced at the number of shinobi that have entered the dojo and the number of guards, including captains, left. "Hmmm, well, I am a bit bored and they do need to train hard. Especially since trouble seems to be heading this way. If what our guest said is the whole truth. I think it should be worth our while to assist them in their training, do you not agree, Hokkai?" Mei had a slight smirk on her face and mischief in her eyes. She did need a bit of a distraction to help her clear her head.

Hokkai did not have to hear her thoughts to know what she meant. "So, you think this scrawny lot can give us a decent work out?" Hokkai made a big motion of examining the group that was waiting, good naturedly ribbing the group. She even received some teasing grumbles. Those being considered were some of the best and in peak condition.

"Oh, I think that they can at least give a try, Hokkai. It will be fun at least." Mei, unarmed, began to walk to the middle of the dojo, with Hokkai close behind her, unarmed as well. The group was waiting to see what was expected of them. And they did not have long to wait. Mei smiled at them and then announced, "You are allowed to use any and all weapons you find or have to try to cause us serious damage. I want to see what you can do. I was a bit sloppy last night and need a good training session." Hokkai nodded her head in agreement with a similar smile. She was bored before Mei showed up at the western palace and was now anticipating some fun.

The guards and shinobi bowed and without warning, launched their attacks. It really is a good thing that the dojo belonged to a youkai, because a dojo for humans would not be able to withstand the amount of power being used inside. Nor the about of bodies or blasts that were thrown at the walls. It was like watching Jet Li and Jackie Chan going at it in high speed for hours. And those who were battling against Mei and Hokkai were going all out. There were lightning blasts, shurikan with explosives, fire blasts, large, deadly weapons being used against the two. And the two women were having a grand time. This is a worthy workout for these two. They are exercising some restraint in their blows, but just enough to not kill their opponents. They were the best and they were finding those within their clans that could and were trying to surpass them in fighting ability, but not quite there yet. The two leaders encouraged their people to train hard, but these two trained just as hard.

Those who were sparring with Mei and Hokkai were having a hard time keeping up, but were enjoying the challenge. Not everyone was given the chance to go all out in training like this unless it was those of near equal ability and control. In this match, the shinobi and guard can really fight using their full strength. There was a good reason that Mei and Hokkai were the ones in charge. They have become the very best and they continue to work hard to stay that way. It's hard to be a leader if you were not the best.

And, luckily not many have attempted to challenge either woman's authority or right to rule. There have been a couple for each, but they were dealt with. In one on one combat for those that were brave enough to fight either woman. It all depends on the reason for the challenges. Some realize they made a mistake and ask to stay. They are allowed as long as they do not attempt to challenge their leaders again, or at least until they are more ready.

The sparring session lasted as long as the shinobi and guard could continue to fight. This lasted almost an hour, then they began to tire. Mei was watching and then called it. Her opponents were all too grateful for the end of the match. Everyone just sort of fell where they stood and decided to rest. The whole group was a bit banged up, but were happy about it. They knew they did well, their studies and training were paying off. It was something to be proud of. As everyone was resting, Mei and Hokkai decided to spar with each other. Kagome was able to erect a barrier around those who were recovering from the group workout. It really was a great show to watch Mei and Hokkai sparring against each other and no one wanted to miss it. The action was truly fast now, but no less graceful or powerful. Mei sent a fury of blows at Hokkai, right knee to the side, left elbow to the head. Hokkai answered with blocks and a frontal kick to Mei's abs. Mei brought the heal of both hands together and sent out a red blast of energy, hitting Hokkai in the chest. Hokkai went flying, just short of the other wall. Hokkai answered with ice shurikan, which sliced Mei's arms and legs. At one point, Mei leapt to the rafters of the dojo's ceiling after Hokkai. It seemed almost effortless. Hokkai leapt to another rafter at the opposite length for the dojo. Smirking at Mei, Hokkai allowed her large, leather wings to appear and unfurl. They were a pearl white in color. She spread them in an unspoken challenge.

Mei glanced down at the others and shrugged. She called for a set of impressive blood red leather wings to come out of her upper back. There was stunned silence from below. Mei glanced down and saw that everyone was truly shocked, then she received loud cheers. "It seems they like the wings, Hokkai," Mei stated lightly, but she was relieved. She worries still about their reaction when she reveals her true self in its entirety, but decided to reveal a little at a time, for now.

"They should, those are very impressive," Hokkai answered back, even giving a nod of her head as if to close the discussion. "Now, let us see what you can do." Hokkai launched herself into the air, using her impressive wings. Mei followed and they began to spar in mid air. Those on the floor of the dojo began cheering. Both women had talons on their hands and were using them to attempt to strike the other.

Mei and Hokkai flew at each other and began using energy to fight each other while in the air. It was very impressive, to say the least. There was lightening, flames, just about any type of manifestation of energy. They were fast and furious. These two were truly amazing. The match would have continued if not for a loud pounding coming from the door to the dojo. Someone wanted in, and they wanted in now! Everyone was more than a little stunned.

"Who in the frozen depths could that be?" Aoihi asked, but was answered by another round of pounding. Mei and Hokkai landed in front of the door, wings disappearing into their backs before disengaging the wards. No sooner had the wards been dropped, then the dojo doors were forcibly shoved open. In the doorway stood three youkai males, canine variety. Their unofficial leader was highly irritated, though he hid it well.

"To what do we owe this dubious honor, western prince?" Aoihi asked, standing to Mei's left, and close enough to cause Sesshomaru to narrow his eyes just a fraction. He received no answer from Sesshomaru, so Mei tried.

"How can we help you, young lords?" Mei asked, a little out of breath. Kagome had gotten up to see who was there and gave a small smile to both ookami and inu hanyou males. Mei noticed that those two were now looking at Kagome intently. "Kagome, I believe these two are here to check on you, my dear. We are done for the day, so we will be heading back." Mei, wearing a warm smile, announced and walked back inside, leaving the door unsealed and the three males standing there. She was not going to say much to the third male. He was looking too good for her own good. And he was too delicious in his workout haori and hakamas. A girl can only take so much temptation without giving in. Aoihi turned to head back to the others, with his mother. He noticed that Sesshomaru was not happy with Mei's lack of enthusiasm at his presence. Aoihi couldn't quite hide his smirk.

Sesshomaru was not amused with being dismissed by anyone. He was the heir to the western lands, and no one dismissed him. Especially not some female that was getting under his skin despite his attempts to ignore her. What was it about her that drew his attention? He did not wait for the two idiots with him to make a move. Sesshomaru walked into his family's dojo. He noticed everyone laying about on the floor, exhausted. He met Hokkai's amused gaze with a raised brow. He then noticed her obvious, worn appearance, clothes were scorched, sliced and wrinkled. He had most definitely not missed the way that Mei looked, her clothing cut up, blood staining them, nor your worn appearance. He did not like the state she was in, but tried to ignore it as much as possible. Only succeeding a scant little bit.

"We were training, Sesshomaru, and we did not wish to be distracted," Hokkai answered, she noticed that Mei was checking on everyone. Mei made sure that her people were not injured too badly, anything beyond what they were capable to heal on their own within a 24 hour period. If there were any then she would assist the healing's or give poultices that will speed the healing. She mentally checked on those that were concealed. Hokkai was watching with a smile and shaking her head at her hatchery sister. Hokkai felt that Mei needed children of her own, though she has taken in many over the years. They did not stay with her. They were found a family within the village to live with. Mei felt it was safer that way for the children.

Sesshomaru said nothing. He did give in to the impulse to really catalog Mei's disheveled appearance, tears and wounds. What drew his attention was the twin downward slashes to the back of her haori. How did those happen? There appears to be no blood, he thought to himself, but brushed it aside. He did not have time to have any concerns for a female he had no interest in. Or so he told himself. For some reason, though, he kept Mei in his sights the whole time he was in the dojo.

"You look tired," Inu Yasha blurted out after getting a closer look at Kagome. He winced right after he said it. He was a little concerned after seeing her clothes and hair in a wild mess. There were tendrils of dark hair that had come free of her braid. She even sported some mild wounds. He did received a whack to the back of the head from Kouga, who had followed him.

"Baka, what the hell is that to say to a woman, especially the lovely Kagome." Kouga was irritated with the hanyou. It was partly due to his unthoughtful comment, but also because Inu Yasha refused to let Kouga near the dojo where Kagome was. Kouga had wanted to see her after she came out the training yard. He also wanted to show Kagome what he could do.

Inu Yasha was concerned, but not very good at saying it without it coming out wrong. He glanced at Kagome through his bangs and found her smiling warmly at him. He was surprised. Why is she smiling? he asked himself.

"Thank you for being concerned," Kagome said, then smiled at Kouga, too. "Both of you, but I am fine. It really was a training session and Mei trains us hard." Kagome was a little tired, but because she trains hard regularly, she was already recovering. By later that night, her bruises and scrapes would be gone. It is definitely a benefit being a trained miko. She noticed they seemed to be a little skeptical about her being fine and laughed. "Really, I am fine and will be fine. This is nothing new to me," she stopped, fearing that she may have said too much. She was reassured by hearing a whisper, You are doing fine. Just remember what you can tell them and what you can not. Kagome did not turn to look at her master, but she did feel better. "So, what did you two come in here for? Did you want to use the dojo, as well?"

"Of course not, we had to use the training grounds, feh," Inu Yasha answered gruffly, then widened his eyes. He did it again, why was he rude and to her? "Sorry," he added, still a bit gruff, but sincere. "I can't seem to help it."

"It's because you were born rude," Kouga commented. He was surprised by what Kagome said next.

"I guessed that, Inu Yasha, but it's ok. And if not to use the dojo, what's up?"

"We wanted to see you, my lovely Kagome. Or at least I did. I'm not too sure about this baka," Kouga answered, smiling. Inu Yasha just growled out something nasty to the ookami.

Hokkai and Mei were now watching the three of them together. "Poor Kagome, having those two interested in her," Hokkai teased. "I do not think they will simply allow her to choose. They will compete to see who can be chosen. And, it may not be a simple, friendly competition. It will be all out."

"I agree, but they are young, what do you expect, sister?" Mei joked back, accepting a drink of water from one of the guards. "The young are forever impatient. Especially when they see what they want." Mei decided it was time to leave the dojo. They all needed to get clean and eat the noon meal. She turned to call everyone when she was face to face with Sesshomaru. She stood there, her eyes locked with his, not saying a word. He actually spoke.

"You are bleeding," was all he said. There was no noticeable change in his tone of voice, but his eye color had change ever so slightly. There was the barest hint of orange to them now, rather than pure gold. "How injured are you?"

Mei was surprised to say the least. Yes, she was injured, enough to bleed, but nothing serious. Or serious in her opinion. Last night's stab wound was worse than her injuries right now combined. The wounds would heal, especially after she had something to eat. But, it was Sesshomaru's reactions that were what surprised her. She decided to answer him. "Yes, I am injured, but that is to be expected when one spars against a dragon. Nothing out of the ordinary for us. I am sure you have sported injuries yourself when you trained all out. There is nothing to be concerned about." She shrugged, drawing his attention to her torn haori. She noticed that his eyes were latched onto her clothing and he did not appear to be very happy about it. "What is with that expression, Lord Sesshomaru? Why do you seem to be angered by my current appearance?" Mei asked, bluntly in a soft voice. She was curious and did not feel any qualms with being honest. It saves time being forthwith.

Sesshomaru's light orange eyes met her hazel ones. He just stared into her eyes, unable or unwilling to answer her.

dorcha means dark

Banríon means queen

Rí means king

Dragan means dragon

Bandia means goddess

Lann - means blade, using as a name

Solas means Light