Chapter 21- Hesitation and Happy News
"Explain your logic to me," demanded Rigast.
Ryuu looked at his grandfather, a dragon demon much like himself. Of a larger bulk, strains of gray coloring his black hair. His red eyes stared at Ryuu expectantly.
"Hasn't the Dragon Clan been wishing for a union between our family and Sesshoumaru's for centuries?" Ryuu asked.
"With a full-blooded demon," Rigast pounded his fist on the table, "Not a half-breed!"
Regarding his grandfather silently, Ryuu stood up from sitting at the table. He made his way to the shelves lining his wall and pulled a scroll. Unrolling it on the table, he showed the writing to his father.
"Despite its small size, the Western Lands have a thriving economy and a diverse set of demons living peacefully under one ruler," Ryuu said, "On top of that, their army is the strongest in eastern Asia. And Sesshomaru himself is no doubt the most powerful demon in this world. This marriage will bring all three of these resources into the Dragon Kingdom."
"These reasons are acceptable," Rigast gave Ryuu the point, "But that does not explain why you would pollute our family with the blood of that half-breed?!"
"She is still the offspring of Sesshomaru," Ryuu replied, "The benefits our land could gain from this union are too great to allow such a minor issue to block the marriage."
"But your children will have human blood running through their veins," Rigast said.
Letting out a frustrated groan, Rigast stood up from the table and walked towards the window. Looking out at the castle ground, he put his hands behind his back.
"A kingdom is only as strong as its ruler," Rigast said with forced calm, "You are the descendant of my pure bloodline and your mother's powerful dragon heritage. You are second only to Sesshomaru in power. That mutt of his is not, and can never be, as powerful as he. If you marry her, your children will be weak. Your enemies will seek to destroy your heirs. And they will disrupt our order."
"We gain a lasting alliance with Sesshomaru," Ryuu said, "No foreign power will threaten the combined power of the Western Lands and the Dragon Kingdom."
"If not for Sesshomaru, your army could wipe that disgraced demon's realm out within months. You would have control of all he has. And you would not have to share power."
"Forgive me for disappointing you," Ryuu rolled the scroll up, "But I am not a demon of conquest."
A knock came at the door.
"Lord Ryuu, they are here," the servant said.
"Thank you," Ryuu replied, "I will meet them in the dining hall."
Rigast looked at Ryuu in disgust.
"You're hosting Sesshomaru and his abomination in this castle?" he asked.
"They are my guests, Grandfather," Ryuu said, "And this is my home, where I am allowed to host whom I choose to."
With that, Ryuu left the room to greet Sesshomaru and Tsukichikara in the dining room. The princess had grown taller, now standing up to Sesshoumaru's shoulder. At age thirteen, close to being fourteen, she was growing into womanhood.
"Sesshomaru," Ryuu greeted, "Tsukichikara.
Tsukichikara gave Ryuu a slight nod, while Sesshomaru stared blankly at Ryuu.
"I see that Rin is not with you," Ryuu noted.
"Mother is hunting a tribe of spider demons," Tsukichikara explained.
"I see," Ryuu nodded.
Joining them at the table, Ryuu had the servants serve lunch for them. Discussion began on affairs and policy to take place between their realms. When all business was done, they adjourned to Ryuu's private study.
"We will not be overheard?" Sesshomaru asked, glancing around the room.
"No, this room is completely soundproof," Ryuu replied.
Sesshomaru took a seat at the low table, Tsukichikara sitting next to him. Refreshments were served, wine for Ryuu and Sesshomaru, tea for Tsukichikara.
"There are things to discuss," Sesshomaru took the goblet of wine, "About the marriage. Tsukichikara is aware of the union, but not of your plans after the wedding."
Ryuu was a bit surprised Sesshomaru was bringing it up.
"Rin and I have given the final choice to Tsukichikara," Sesshomaru informed him, "If she does not deem this union wise, then the marriage will be canceled."
This earned a true gasp from Ryuu. It shocked him to imagine that Sesshomaru would allow the girl any say in the matter. Children did they duties their parents gave them. (Although he had turned against his own father years ago. That had been for a good reason.)
"I see," Ryuu regained his composure.
He looked over at Tsukichikara, the key to his ambitions for both realms. She remained passive, mirroring her father's expressions.
"Are you aware of the extent of our boarders?" Ryuu asked.
"You control the demon tribes from this shore all the way to Eurasia," she said, "Most of your control is centered in China, but there are spots in Russia, Korea, and India under your rule."
"My father built this empire, expanding over the course of 500 years. But his ambition was greater than his ability to rule. Our kingdom loses order the further one travels from the center. I simply do not have the resources to control the most outspread territories."
"So why do you want to marry me?"
"I want to unify our kingdoms," Ryuu stated.
Her eyes popped.
"You want to absorb the Western Lands into the Dragon Kingdom?" Tsukichikara asked.
"I want to merge the lands, pooling resources, armies, governments, and trade."
"And both father and you would rule as… equals? Or will one be subordinate to another?"
"Sesshomaru will rule the eastern territories while I attend to the western territories. I will entrust the Dragon Capitol to him while I stabilize the chaotic kingdoms. In essence, we will share power."
Tsukichikara glanced at her father in disbelief.
"You object?" Sesshomaru asked her.
"I just find it difficult to believe that you would share power," she replied.
"I will retain control over the Western Lands," Sesshomaru explained, "And you will have the power to act in my name. But you will be the lady of this merged empire. As long as you rule, and as long as you are loyal to me, I do not fear losing my authority."
"You would be more than a simple figurehead," Ryuu added, "You would be the intermediary between both of us. If I did not believe you have a honorable character, I would not maintain the engagement."
"We aren't well acquainted, Lord Ryuu," she replied.
"I have regular reports on you," Ryuu said, "I can see by your conduct so far that you are like your parents."
"You once asked me to be honest with you," Tsukichikara said, "And, to be honest, I am not sure of your intentions, Lord Ryuu. Through me, you could exert great control over the Western Lands. My first priority is to protect my father's realm and rule."
"Then you don't trust me?" Ryuu prodded.
"Not at present," she said, "I know that my father thinks well of you. But this marriage is mine. If I am to spend my life with you, I want to be certain. I would ask that you allow me time to judge this situation. By my twentieth year, if no significant drawbacks appear, I will honor the marriage."
She gave him a serious, rock hard stare. She was determined to judge him for herself. To have him prove himself to be worthy of her.
"I understand," he nodded, raising his goblet, "Until your twentieth year."
…
Sesshomaru walked out of the study with Tsukichikara.
"Why your twentieth year?" Sesshomaru asked, "Demons are long lived. You could have delayed further."
"Mother was certain at age twenty," Tsukichikara replied, "About her feelings."
"Your mother grew up knowing me," Sesshomaru replied.
"Father, do you trust Ryuu?" she asked.
"There are few I trust completely, Tsukichikara," he replied, "I trust Ryuu to keep his word. But my trust only extends so far."
"Did you accept the offer when he told you about the plan?"
"I accepted because he was a worthy demon," Sesshomaru replied, "I was… unaware of the drawbacks. If I were to repeat the event, I would refuse."
"Refuse?" Tsukichikara asked, "What's changed in the last few years?"
Stopping in the hall, Sesshomaru looked at her. Placing his hand on her cheek, he almost smiled at her.
"I did not know how precious you would be to me," he replied, "Nor did I know how much I would want your happiness."
His hand dropped to his side. Tsukichikara gave him a soft smile.
"Learn while you are here," Sesshomaru said, "Learn of the Dragon Kingdom, this land that will be yours to rule. See the power Ryuu wields, and that you will share. If you marry him, you do not marry the man, you marry the lands he rules."
Tsukichikara nodded.
…
"It looks like that spider tribe has moved on," Sango looked around.
The part of the woods the spiders had occupied was coated in webs and spider silk. Carcasses of dead prey littered the ground. Looking at them, Rin felt a wave of nausea build up.
"Rin, are you alright?" Sango asked, "You look a little green."
While the sight of the spider lair was grotesque, Rin had seen worse.
"I don't understand why I'm feeling sick," Rin said.
"You go wait with Ah-Un," Sango said, "I'll investigate the nest."
Nodding, Rin walked back to Ah-Un and sat on the ground. The nausea slowly eased. Ah-Un's head both looked at her strangely. One of the heads sniffed her carefully, then looked at the other head.
"What's with you two?" Rin asked, "Don't like spider scent?"
Both the heads only stared at her.
Ba dump.
Suddenly, Rin felt a demonic aura grow. First it was small, then it expanded all around her. As it got stronger, Rin felt another wave of nausea.
"Rin!" Sango ran towards her, "I felt a demonic aura nearby!"
Sango looked around for the source of the aura. Rin gasped, looking down at her stomach.
"I don't understand," Rin said.
She put a hand on her abdomen.
Ba bump. Ba bump.
She felt the pulse of the demonic aura grow.
"Rin, that aura is coming from you," Sango said.
"It's just like Tsuki," Rin said, "But… Tsuki's aura appeared the next morning. Why did this one take a week?"
"You mean you're pregnant?" Sango asked.
"It has to be," Rin replied, "That's what I'm feeling."
Rubbing her stomach, Rin smiled at Sango.
"Hmm," Sango nodded, "That's good news. But right now, we have work to do. Go easy on yourself. We'll head back as soon as we're done investigating."
Rin nodded before picking herself up and continuing to work.
…
Returning to Tsukikage Castle, Sesshomaru settled in the family quarters. Tsukichikara had already retired to her own room.
Immediately he noticed a change in the air. Another scent had been in this space. Looking around, he searched for an intruder. Entry to these quarters was strictly controlled, but he took due caution when he sensed foreign presences.
"You're back!" Rin said from their sleeping room.
She walked out, dressed in a kimono. Taking in her scent, he detected a demonic scent coming from her. There was also an aura emanating from her body. Sesshomaru walked towards her, sniffing carefully.
"You're with child," he realized.
"Surprise," Rin smiled.
Looking at Rin, his chest swelled with happiness. After many, many attempts, Rin was carrying his child once again.
"Can you tell the gender?" Rin asked.
"Female," he replied.
"Oh… I was hoping for a boy this time," she said in disappointment.
"It does not matter, Rin," he replied.
As he said the words, Sesshomaru realized that he was disappointed as well. Though the next daughter would be welcomed, and he was fortunate to have a second child at all, part of him wished for a son.
"Uh," she clapped her hands together, "I have to tell Tsuki, she's going to be a big sister!"
"I'll bring her to you," he said, "Rest, Beloved."
"I can't stay still," Rin replied, "Let's just go to her room together."
Rin darted out of the family room to Tsukichikara's room next to theirs. Sesshomaru followed her as she knocked on Tsukichikara's door.
"Mother," Tsukichikara opened the door, "What… is it?"
Tsukichikara looked carefully at Rin, then sniffed her mother's scent.
"Can you tell?" Rin asked brightly.
"Half-demon, female," Tsukichikara said, "A little musky."
"That's what dog demons smell like, dear," Rin replied.
"You're pregnant," Tsukichikara stated, "Congratulations."
"That's all you have to say?" Rin asked, "You're going to be a big sister! You're going to have a little sister! I always wanted a little sister when I was young. I had plenty of brothers, but no sisters. This is great, right?"
"Uhh… sure?" Tsukichikara said uncomfortably.
"Well…" Rin's smile fell, "It's a lot to take in. Why don't you get some rest, Tsuki?"
"Alright," she nodded.
Tsukichikara closed the sliding door. Rin looked up at Sesshomaru with a disturbed expression.
"I will speak to her," Sesshomaru said.
Sesshomaru opened the door, walking into Tsukichikara's room. She was sitting on the porch, staring out at the autumn leaves.
"I'm not upset or anything, Father," Tsukichikara said, "I just don't know how I'm supposed to react."
Sesshomaru took a seat next to her on the porch.
"Your mother and I are happy," Sesshomaru said, "We have desired a second child for many years."
"I never wanted a sibling," Tsukichikara said flatly, "All this time, I've been glad to be an only child. I had Akito to be my big brother. I didn't have to share either of you. Now, Mother will be busy when the baby comes. And you'll have another student."
"You stated earlier that you were not upset."
"That's a lie," she pouted, "What if… what if…"
She stopped speaking.
"What if what?" he prodded.
"What if she tries to become my rival for the title?" Tsukichikara asked.
"Then you will fight her," he replied, "And if she is more worthy, you will find another path."
"But I don't want anyone else to be the ruler of the Western Lands."
"Tsukichikara, what you desire is not always best for the Western Lands. Above all else, the ruler must be strong. If this younger sister is stronger than you, you must step aside for the good of the Western Lands."
"I'm pathetic," she laughed, "I'm jealous of a baby that hasn't even been born."
"It is not uncommon," Sesshomaru replied, "Unwelcome siblings do lead to seeds of envy and even hatred."
His blood burned with traces of his memories. Of the time he found out that Izayoi was carrying Inuyasha.
"But those feelings are often unfounded," he continued.
"Were you jealous of Uncle Inuyasha?" Tsukichikara asked.
"I was," he admitted, "But… you are not like me. You see the flaw in your emotions. And I never felt shame for my conduct."
"What does that mean?" she looked up at him.
"That you are your mother's daughter," he placed his hand on her head, "You have her heart beating in your chest."
He rubbed her head.
"Things will work out," he said to her.
…
"Hmm," Inukimi looked closely at Rin's stomach, "It's a girl alright."
"I know that," Rin smiled.
"Hmmm…." Inukimi pondered, "Her aura is different from Sesshoumaru's or Tsuki's. Hikari, what do you think?"
Hikari observed Rin closely, then looked at Inukimi.
"Rin have you ever wondered why neither Sesshoumaru or Tsuki never used magic?" Inukimi asked, "Even though they're both my descendants?"
"Uh… they can't?" Rin asked.
"That's not technically correct," Inukimi said, "Tsuki can cast weak spells, like Sesshomaru. But their powers are best harnessed by a medium, such as a weapon. But some demons can use sorcery to manipulate their aura into spells. The more innate talent for magic, the better the spells."
"So… is the aura different for magic users?"
"It's a slight difference," Inukimi said, "I doubt a human would ever live long enough to learn the deviation. But from what I can tell, your little one will have a talent for magic. Therefore…"
Inukimi looked over at Sesshomaru.
"A sword may not be appropriate," Inukimi said.
"What would you suggest an alternative?" he asked.
"A weapon to channel her power and to help protect her human heart…" Inukimi pondered, "Our family is not known for using magical tools. You once encountered a demon with a fan, Kagura was it?"
"The wind sorceress," Rin nodded.
"So she was an elemental specialist," Inukimi nodded, "Just as Hikari specializes in fire magic due to her father being a fire demon. We will just have to see what this one's specialty is."
"I can't wait to meet her," Rin smiled.
"Have you been thinking of names?" Inukimi asked.
"Uhh…" Rin looked over at Sesshomaru.
"Rin, you should choose the name this time," Sesshomaru said.
"I guess I'll have to think about it," Rin said.