Disclaimer:Short, but sweet, since I have a lot to do. I do not own any of the original characters in this Anime/Manga series. They are the property of Rumiko Takashi and her subsidiaries, and are used here without permission.
This story is for entertainment purposes only and is not intended for profit or finacial gain in any way. I make no money from this and have no desire to either.
I do own any of my own characters and ideas that appear in this fic. If you wish to use any of them in your own stories or write in my world, please ask permission, or at least give me credit. Thank you.
Summary/Warning:This chapter has a certain amount of darkness in it, so be warned. I also make use, once again of the formal language in the ceremony that follows, but considering how important this moment is for both Youkai and Ningens, I felt that it was warranted. Again, I apologize to any of you who know the Japanese language, if the translation of the formal tongue is inaccurate. I am going from very limited knowledge here.
There is much reference to Japanese styles and customs, at least those that might have been prevelant in the Sengoku Jidai, but again my knowledge is limited and may be inaccurate at times. Please bear with me. I do my best to honour what I know, but the old saying "A little knowledge is a dangerous thing," may apply in this case. Please be assured that I do not intend to offend anyone; this is just creative licence born from a long-standing interest in this beautiful and often violent culture, and a pure enjoyment of this wonderful series.
There will be a glossary of any names, terms and "creative-license" words that may come up in the course of this story at the end of the chapter. Thank you for your indulgence. On with the action!
Chapter Twenty: A New Lord Recognized
After the very busy and eventful morning, they were required to prepare for the next ceremony, which Inuyasha was admittedly somewhat nervous about. The outfits for the ceremony were the entire formal kimono regimen, but for the final mantles, which would be placed around each person's shoulders at the "declaration of the lineage" part of the ceremony. All the colors would be in the Inushiro red and white, until the final mantles were placed.
In this case, they dressed Inuyasha even more formally, and his hair was done even more elaborately. Now he had a crest bound with red and white decorative cords, and two braids in front woven and ornamented with red and white beaded falls and several white jade, dog figurines.
Kagome wore her loose pretty chignon again with a few wisps of dark hair arranged artfully around her face. Her kanzashi were red and white falls of beads, a set of red and white enameled hair-sticks, and ornaments of silk ornamental maple leaves and soft chiffon dandelion pods.
When they were ready, their attendants once again led them proudly through the corridors and down to the ceremonial hall.
The hall that was to be used for this ceremony was one of the most important places in the palace. It was where most of the previous Inushiro Lords held court during important times, and evidently one that Sesshomaru avoided like the plague.
It was another interesting revelation for Inuyasha. Sesshomaru had always seemed so proud and self-promoting to him, and yet he preferred to handle the business of being a Lord, in private meetings and in much more quiet and modest ways.
The hall they were travelling to was known as "The Lord's Hall," or sometimes "The War Hall." And Inuyasha believed that he had been there once, in all his 36 years at the palace.
They gathered outside the entrance shojii, a cluster of red and white robes, buzzing with both anticipation and apprehension. Miroku and Sango were particularly nervous, being the only completely Human couple in the group. They wondered if Youkai, Daiyoukai or not, would really deal well with the possibility of Humans becoming heirs to Youkai realms, especially a major realm, like the Western Lands.
Fortunately, perhaps, they did not have to worry on it long, because shortly after everyone arrived, their attendants reappeared to inform them that all the Lords were gathered in the hall and the ceremony was about to begin.
Sesshomaru led his family to the front of the hall. He looked magnificent and beautiful beyond compare. His hair had been drawn up into a topknot once again, but this time there were two braids on each side in the front, and the loose hair in the back was pulled into a single thick tail behind. His kunzushe were several gold rings set with red and white jade securing the tail in the back, several carved white jade, dog figurines on red and gold cord that were braided into the silvery strands in the front, several falls of red and white beads ornamenting his topknot, and one larger, very detailed and beautifully carved ornament of a leaping dog as well.
"Damn, he looks so fucking beautiful!" Inuyasha thought, with some envy."If I didn't have Kagome, I might just mate him!"
Clearly others were thinking the same thoughts, but much more seriously. The admiration and out and out lust Inuyasha saw on the faces of many of their audience, men and women both, was a little bit unnerving. "He and Kirara better get their Ceremony done soon. Or someone may just take him for themselves, mated or not!"
At the end of the chamber, stood a large smoking and fragrant brazier and a table with two knives laid out on gold cloth. There was also a carved bowl of red and white jade, inlaid with gold. It held some very expensive and rare incense.
The Lords of the Council and the Priests of the High Council knelt on thickly padded, elegantly trimmed, brocade cushions to the right and the left of this "stage," which was set up on the dais upon which the Inushiro Lords presided to hold public audience.
Waiting on the platform were the Lords of the three other realms, all spectacularly and elegantly dressed in their ceremonial best. Raja No Kuroneko and Lord Karikatora framed Mujiya No Issaitouraku on either side as they watched the odd little family approach with veiled expression.
If this wasn't intimidating enough, the great hall was daunting all by itself. The ceiling was vaulted, the beams and rafters that supported the roof, fully exposed. They were made out of rare and exotic woods and elaborately worked and gilded. Even the wooden base used to hold the roof-tiles was painted.
Though there were regular shojii on the outside walls, there were other sliding panels on the inside. They were lacquer and stiffened silk or fine woven bamboo and many were decorated in either family crests or beautiful, elaborate Chinese silk paintings of life in court.
The long walk-way towards the dais had wall panels framed with elegant wooden trim to emphasize the spaces in between. They were hung with beautiful silk brush paintings of all the Inushiro lords that had ever ruled over the Western Lands. They were all in their Ikimono forms: Large, magnificent white dogs that hammered home to Inuyasha, with every step, that he would never match up to their power and glory. The last picture was, of course, of Sesshomaru, leaping and flying gloriously through the air. Strangely enough, relief and comfort washed over Inuyasha when he beheld that beautiful image, and he felt a deep pride surge and glow in him at the sight.
The group stopped before the dais, as the ponderous sound of the ceremonial drums that had heralded their walk to the "stage," fell silent. The Mujiya drummer maids had been re-joined by their third member, and Inuyasha fancied that the solemn, ceremonial tempo held an extra tone of joy in it, even though it wasn't quite in keeping with the weighted air of formality that seemed to permeate the ceremony and the silent, expectant hall.
Now Mujiya No Issaitouraku spoke the opening cadence of the important procedure. "The Lords of the North, South and East recognize the Lord of the West. He stands in supplication before them with what purpose?"
"Lords of the Three Realms; This Lord Sesshomaru stands in supplication before them to present his brother: Second Son of Inu No Taishou, Wielder of the Great Fang, Tetsusaiga; Daiyoukai Hanyo of the Inushiro clan, and Honourable Warrior and Kinsman. He asks for their recognition of this Inuyasha, as the Prince of the West, and rightful and current heir to his throne."
"Lord of the West." Was the reply. "The Lords of the Three Realms acknowledge the presentation of this Inuyasha, Second Son of Inu No Taishou, Wielder of the Great Fang, Tetsusaiga, Daiyoukai Hanyo of the Inushiro Clan, Honourable Warrior, and True-blood brother of Inuzai No Sesshomaru-Sama, as his rightful and current heir to the Inushiro throne of the Fourth Realm. Let the declarations be heard."
Lord Karikatora spoke first. "This Lord Karikatora, Official representative of the noble Lady of the East: Uruatou No Yakiayoko-Sama, aknowledges The Second Son of the Dog General as Prince and heir to the Inushiro throne of the Fourth Realm."
Then the young Lord of the South spoke. "The Lord of the South: Rajanan No Kuroneko-Sama, acknowledges The Second Son of the Dog General as Prince and heir to the Inushiro throne of the Fourth Realm."
Then the Badger Lord spoke again. "The Lord of the North: Mujiyaboku No Issaitouraku-Daimyo, acknowledges The Second Son of the Dog General as Prince and heir to the Inushiro throne of the Fourth Realm. We name him Inuzai No Inuyasha-Wakasama No Shiro: Lord Inuyasha of the Western Lands; White Prince of the Throne of the West."
Then Inuyasha knelt and Issaitouraku brought forth Tetsusaiga completely bound up in cloth, to permit him to handle it. He held the sword horizontally before him, balanced on his outstretched palms and bowed before Inuyasha before handing the blade to him in formal acknowledgement.
Inuyasha was not required to say anything. He was just expected to stand, bow and receive his sword from his Daimyo. When it was back in his hands, he unwrapped the white and crimson silk and held his sword aloft before a cheering audience, while the joyous drums pounded out their powerful rhythm once again. Then he bound Tetsusaiga securely to his sash, glad to have his father's fang back at his side.
The gong sounded in a commanding reverberating tone, and the joyful crowd watched as another silk brush painting was unfurled. Inuyasha gasped. The picture was of him, leaping forward, one hand outstretched, the other wielding Tetsusaiga gloriously over his head!
He was dressed in garments quite suitable for fighting; they were even mostly red, but they were fancier than he had ever worn before, except during celebration. Still, they were very flattering and showed off a fine physique to its best advantage.
His expression was fierce and protective, his attitude graceful and dynamic and the marks that had appeared in the arena and that burned on his face again even now, were bright, clear and beautiful. His long, loose hair spread out in a gorgeous silver wave, and appeared much longer than he had ever worn it.
It was an amazing likeness, and absolutely beautiful, and yet Inuyasha was sure that he had never appeared so heroic and glorious in his entire life! His throat grew tight even as his cheeks burned red. "That-that can't be me!" He breathed.
His friends, on the other hand seemed completely without doubt. "Inuyasha, of course it is!" Kagome spoke. Her eyes shone and her hands were clasped tightly against her chest. "It's absolutely perfect. It's like one of my modern photographs except 100 times more beautiful!"
"The likeness is incredible!" Sango breathed. "The painter is a true artisan to capture the fire of your heroic spirit so perfectly!"
"It is almost mystical." Miroku spoke softly. "Inuyasha you must believe us. The portrait is accurate in every possible way."
"Without a doubt." Kirara agreed.
"I-I don't know what to say." Inuyasha finally managed to respond again. "I just-- it-it's so incredible! I'm not that--that beautiful!"
"You are mistaken, Little Brother." Sesshomaru spoke gently. "The portrait captures you perfectly. I will be truly honoured to see it displayed next to my own."
This was all spoken beneath the cheers and the dynamic beating of the drums as the portrait of the Second Lord of the Western Lands was hung up ceremoniously next to the glorious image of the First, and once again Inuyasha felt tears coming to his eyes. He fought them back and stood proudly next to his brother as his true place in the world was formally acknowledged at last.
Only his friends and family, who stood supportively around him, truly knew how much he had suffered to earn this right. Only they knew how hard this show of confidence and pride was for their sore-hearted Hanyo, and only they knew how very important and wonderful this moment really was.
And Inuyasha felt their warmth surround him, and as beautiful as the incredible portrait was, it was their love and support that caused his heart to fill with pride and his courage and confidence to rise. These were the people who truly knew his soul, and their love was the only honour he would ever need, in this world or the next.
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Once the portrait was hung and the hall had calmed down, it was time for the recognition of the family. Sesshomaru announced Kirara first. As his mate, he needed no exchange of blood to elevate her to her true position. That was a vow that had been made the very first time they had joined as mates.
Likewise, Rin, having absorbed Sesshomaru's youki and become of his blood, needed no ceremony either. She was hoisted onto Sesshomaru and Inuyasha's shoulders and acknowledged as daughter and niece, without question.
Nor did Kagome need a ceremony of induction. Like Sesshomaru and Kirara, Inuyasha and Kagome had completed the only vow necessary, two days ago.
Even so, as they acknowledged their beloved child and mates, the marks on Kirara's face blazed even more brightly, and a slender blue crescent moon appeared on Rin's forehead. Kagome's beautiful marks reappeared on her face again: the two arrows on each cheek, and the arrow and star ornamented circle on her soft, pretty brow. Her eyes lightened to that beautiful amber once more. Then it was time for the more formal ritual to begin.
Shippo would be the first to go through the ritual, and though Inuyasha felt bad, cutting the little Kitsune's hand, he knew that Shippo had suffered worse in his young lifetime. The little kit gritted his teeth bravely as Sesshomaru quickly slashed the first knife across his palm and then his own and then clasped their bleeding hands together.
"The First Lord of the West acknowledges the Kitsune Shippo as honoured nephew and Kinsman of the Inushiro Line. "
Then it was Inuyasha's turn and he winced inwardly himself as he slashed Shippo's second palm and watched him bite his little lip in a successful attempt to fight back the involuntary tears of pain. He didn't blame him; shallow as the cut was, the palm was sensitive, and he had to almost force himself to slash his own as well. He clasped their hands tightly together.
"The Second Lord of the West acknowledges the Kitsune Shippo as honoured son and heir of the Inushiro Line."
They hoisted him up to their shoulders as he held out his little palms and all saw the cuts glow and quickly heal completely. His green eyes became somewhat suffused in the Inushiro gold, and a blue Bin Leaf underscored by a jagged purple line appeared on his smooth forehead. Everyone cheered and the drums and rattles rang out joyfully.
Shippo took some incense from the bowl and sprinkled it carefully into the burning brazier. The flames flared blue and the bright images of Bin leaves danced in the eerie light, before everything returned to normal. The little kit was lowered ceremoniously back to stand on the ground. The two knives were wiped clean with a provided cloth and then plunged into the brazier as well, both as a ritualistic gesture and to sterilize them. It was Kikyo's turn.
She didn't even flinch as the first cut was made, and Sesshomaru slashed his own healed palm once again and clasped their hands together. "The First Lord of the West acknowledges the Kitsune DaiTsuraYoukai, Kikyo as honoured cousin and Kinswoman of the Inushiro Line."
Then it was Inuyasha's turn and he stoically managed to force himself to cut the soft white skin of her left palm before once again cutting his own. This cut seemed to hurt worse than the last. He clasped their hands together tightly.
"The Second Lord of the West acknowledges the Kitsune DaiTsuraYoukai, Kikyo as honoured cousin and Kinswoman of the Inushiro Line."
Once Inuyasha had given his "blessing" Kikyo's palms were held up for all to see as well, and the cuts glowed and healed, just as Shippo's had. Her marks flared, and everyone cheered. Like Shippo she sprinkled some incense into the flame and this time the image of a dancing, flame-wreathed fox appeared in the blue flare of mystical light, before fading away once more. Inuyasha and Sesshomaru repeated the knife ritual and it was Oushiyokama's turn.
Oushiyokama was acknowledged as a cousin as well, and the spirit of blessing was a roaring, leaping lion. When the cheers for his acknowledgement had died down, it was Miroku's turn.
As self-effacing and calm as ever, the handsome young Houshi ascended the wide dais. In the rehearsal, they had been told that this process would be slightly different. Even though he was Human, Inuyasha and Sesshomaru were acknowledging Miroku as a brother, which put him third in line for the Lord of the Western Lands.
For this ritual, both Sesshomaru and Inuyasha had to cut him at the same time, but the palm with the Wind Tunnel could not be cut at all, for it would risk widening the deadly hole dangerously, thus it was the lower arm that would take the necessary slash and that could be more painful.
Once the cuts had been made, each brother would announce their acknowledgement in turn. Miroku would then use his one hand to sprinkle incense upon the fires of the brazier and the arm to spill some of his own blood in as well. When the "sacrifice" had been completed, his full title, by his new place in the family lineage, would be announced to the audience, as his injuries supposedly healed and his marks appeared.
With a soft resigned sigh he held out both his arms knowing that these cuts would have to be slightly deeper than the others. Even Sesshomaru appeared slightly sympathetic as the two brothers drew the deadly blades sharply across the monk's smooth, tanned skin.
Miroku was unable to hold back a slight hiss of pain, and the blood was already welling out as Sesshomaru cut his own palm and made his announcement, clasping the Houshi's bleeding right wrist.
"The First Lord of the West acknowledges the Human Houshi, Miroku as Honoured Brother and Third Lord of the Inushiro Line."
Then Inuyasha cut his hand and grasped Miroku's hand, palm to bleeding palm. "The Second Lord of the West acknowledges the Human Houshi, Miroku as Honoured Brother and the Third Lord of the Western Lands."
It was Miroku's turn. With great reverence he gathered the handful of incense (the others had only used a pinch), sprinkling it, already mixed with his sacred blood, over the glowing blue coals of the mystical brazier. At the same time he extended his wrist over the flames as well and let more of his blood spill hissing onto the heated bed.
It happened so fast, that Inuyasha didn't even have time to react! No sooner had the last drop of blood dropped from Miroku's wound when the flames blazed up so suddenly that it was a wonder none of the ritual's supplicants were burned alive!
An image roughly nine feet high leaped from the sapphire flames soaring above the awed audience's heads. It was the image of a glorious, long-haired, brown dog with Youkai markings on it's face and body and burning eyes of flame-orange with only single vertical slits of turquoise pupils in their centers. The image made one graceful sweep around the entire hall, and then dived straight at Miroku, literally plunging into his paralyzed body!
Miroku cried out in shock and pain, which quickly turned into a powerful roar. Then, before his family's astonished eyes, he transformed!
His hair grew long and thick, the lush brown cascade bursting out of it's usual neat tail to tumble about his shoulders and back. His features refined and sharpened, and while still perfectly recognizable as their beloved Miroku, took on a definite eldritch caste. His ears became tapered, his teeth and nails sharpened to fangs and claws, and his body stretched and lengthened to reach full Youkai stature!
Marks appeared on his face, which were quickly recognized as those that had appeared on the brown dog's image: Two slender, amber stripes on each cheek and both hands, and a moon symbol in bright burgundy on his forehead. This was a thin crescent moon in the waxing position forming the left side of a full circle. The other half of the circle was a completely dark, half-moon shape in the waning position. The most startling, however; were his eyes, which lightened to an absolutely breathtaking lilac color that was glorious to behold!
For a moment, the stunned Monk shone there, a true, beautiful Daiyoukai, for all to see; then just as rapidly, he returned to the fully Human Miroku that they all knew and loved.
The moon symbol darkened to deep purple and transformed into the stylized image of the bell-circle at the top of his staff. His hair became shorter and neater once more, but for the fact that it had broken lose from its tight tail and fell somewhat carelessly to his shoulders.
His proportions returned to those of his familiar Human body, and the stripes on his hands disappeared. Those on his cheeks remained, but they darkened to a more ordinary wheat-gold. Only his eyes remained that stunning lilac color as he collapsed spent against Inuyasha's ready support.
"Aniki!" Inuyasha growled, truly frightened. "What the Hell just happened?"
Sesshomaru was looking at the brazier, where a smaller image of the brown dog-demon danced briefly in the light before fading as well. He would have answered, his younger brother, but the ceremony was continuing.
Now Mujiya Issaitouraku and the other Lords of the Realms came forward, as had been rehearsed. Lord Issaitouraku and Sesshomaru seized Miroku's right arm and held it high, while Lord Karikatora and Lord Kuroneko seized the left hand and held it palm outward. The sleeves of Miroku's robes fall away from the pale, firm flesh revealing his hands, and his arms all the way to his elbows.
Where the cuts had once been there were glowing burgundy marks of the moon symbol that had been on his brow. These faded to gold and then vanished completely, leaving smooth, unblemished skin in their place.
"Behold!" Issaitouraku announced. "The Lords of the Four Realms present Inukasshoku No Miroku-Sousama, Third Lord of the Western Lands and blessed by the spirit of the Inukasshoku themselves: the Brown Inutaiyoukai line of ages past!"
The cheers, rattles and drums reverberated through the great hall in victorious celebration, even though Miroku was almost as white as Inuyasha's hair, and looked like he was ready to collapse. Lord Issaitouraku laid one reassuring hand on Sesshomaru's shoulder and led the other Lords back to their formal places, leaving the recovering new Lord, to the tender support of his younger brother.
"Sessh, you better the Hell explain this to me right now!" Inuyasha growled under the cover of the applause and celebratory drums. The rest of the family listened closely as well.
"I am sorry, Inuyasha. I was not aware of the truth myself, until moments before the ceremony began. The Daimyo pulled me aside and told me the true reason that the rituals are different for bonding Humans to a ruling Youkai family.
A Human cannot become Lord of Youkai lands, so a true Youkai spirit, closely related to the current ruling clan, must be called upon to both bless and suffuse a Human intendant. The spirit remains mostly dormant within its Human host, though it's power is still part of him and his spirit, and therefore he is stronger even than other Blood-Bonded Humans.
If it should happen that he must take full ruler-ship of his family's lands, the Youkai spirit awakens and transforms his body to that of a full-booded Youkai with full knowledge of what is required to adjust and live with his new-found power.
The spirit that blessed Lord Miroku is from a long extinct Inutaiyoukai line that still runs somewhat in our blood. I believe one of our ancestors, several generations before Ojiisan, was an Inukasshoku. That they chose to return to bless our newly bonded brother speaks deeply of his worthiness and nobility."
With such praise and honour bestowed on Miroku, Inuyasha found it hard to remain truly angry, but he was still very much startled and deeply concerned for Miroku. "Well, he better be all right!" He growled "Or I'll be fuckin' pissed!"
At that moment a warm, gentle hand was laid on his shoulder. Inuyasha turned to see Miroku standing on his own, and though he was still rather pale, his smile was reassuring. "Thank you for your concern, My friend, but I already seem to be recovering." He sighed. "I will admit, however that a certain amount of warning would have been less unsettling."
"You can say that again." Inuyasha growled, still not quite ready to let go of his irritation. "What about Sango, will she get any of this weird shit at her acknowledgement?"
"Yes." Sesshomaru replied, "But it will not be quite as overwhelming. Female spirits are gentler with their soul sisters than their forceful, masculine counterparts."
The applause and encouragement died down once again and Miroku was helped off the platform by the other members of his family. Then it was Sango's turn. She looked a little nervous, but a soft kiss to her mate's lips seemed to brace her nerve.
As the future Third Lady of the Western Lands, Inuyasha, as her declared brother and Kirara, as her newly acquired sister would be the ones that performed the ritual. As with Miroku, they would both cut her hands at the same time and then take it in turn to give their acknowledgement. After that, she would also sprinkle a whole handful of incense and spill her blood over the brazier coals, and she too would be announced by the Lords of the Four Realms using her full title.
This time, after the mutual cuts, Inuyasha went first. "The Second Lord of the West acknowledges the Human Tajiya, Sango as Honoured Sister, and Third Lady of the Inushiro Line."
Then it was Kirara's turn, and as she held their clasped and bleeding hands aloft, her rich musical voice captivated all who bore witness to her declaration. "The First Lady of the West acknowledges the Human Tajiya, Sango as Honoured and Beloved Sister, and Third Lady of the Inushiro Line."
Then it was Sango's turn to sprinkle the fragrant incense gently over the blue flames and spill her blood into the vessel of offering.
Everyone held their breaths as the blue flames sprang upward once again, and another magnificent image materialized from their shining depths. This was only six feet tall, but no less awe-inspiring. It appeared as a lithe, powerful Lioness, with a long flowing mane and three tails. She had white ears and two, white slashes at the tips of each of her three tails, and her long beautiful fur was a deep lacquer-brown.
Her eyes were the same fiery orange that the Inukasshoku's had been, with the same turquoise slashes for pupils. She had beautiful markings and around her ankles, mane, middle and tails she trailed warm gold and green streamers of light that shone amidst soft swirls of leaves and blossoms.
Like the Brown Dog spirit, she soared upward and around the hall, while soft exclamations of "Neko No Hayashi! Nekokoudo!" whispered through the audience. Then the beautiful creature turned shining eyes on Sango, and dived gracefully towards her. Unlike Miroku's spirit, this manifestation simply melted into Sango's body with a soft green and gold glow. It drew a soft, enraptured breath from her, and the transformation simply came to be, in a bright, gentle halo of light!
Sango's beautiful chocolate waves tumbled out of her careful chignon and grew longer and finer, shining and blowing about her. The kanzashi, however; simply rearranged themselves in a more untamed and fey configuration, without binding the long hair back upon her head. The silk flowers became real, complete with their sweet fresh fragrances, and any ornament fashioned out of bamboo sprouted dainty, slender leaves.
On either side of her delicate, eldritch-featured face there was a gleaming streak of silver-white in her hair, and her body became stretched ethereal and slender, in true Daiyoukai maiden form.
She had markings on her fore-arms, and cheeks; delicate silhouettes of two feathery ferns in a soft, spring-green, and on her forehead a stylized fuji cherry-blossom in rosy-pink. Her eyes had lightened to a glorious honey-amber orange. She was so beautiful that Miroku almost lost his breath!
Just like her mate before her, Sango shone in her Daiyoukai form for but a moment and then softly returned to her normal Human form once again. Her hair remained loose, the kanzashi still in the charming and unique arrangement that they had been placed in, but the flowers were silk again, and the bamboo no longer sprouted leaves.
The markings on her cheeks darkened to a modest blue-green, but the pairs of ferns metamorphosed into twin boomerang shapes, like Haraikotsu. The cherry blossom image darkened to a deep rose and took on a much simpler, more stylized shape. Her eyes remained in their beautiful honey-amber hue. She appeared somewhat drained as well, but not as badly as Miroku.
It was the Ladies of the Four Realms that came forward to take and present her hands to the audience: The Lady Mujiya Izaitenjin Kyosan from the North, The Lady Nekoyonshi No Kirara-Chisan from the West, The Lady Takanisou, sister to Lord Karikatora, as representative for the East; and The Lady Raja No Nekokinhara-Shousan, from the South. Kirara and Lady Izaitenjin took Sango's right hand, and the Ladies Takanisou and Nekokinhara took her left.
"Behold!" Lady Mujiya Izaitenjin spoke. "The Ladies of the Four Realms present Nekohayashi No Sango Tajiyasan, Third Lady of the Western Lands and blessed by the spirit of the Neko No Hayashi, Nekokoudo, the mystical Woodland Cats of legends past!"
The mark of the Fuji Cherry Blossom glowed on Sango's palms where the cuts had been and then faded to gold and vanished, leaving her completely healed. The smaller image of the Nekokoudo danced in the blue flames in a swirl of blossoms and leaves, then faded as well.
There was an audible sigh of enchantment and awe and then the applause, drums and an accompaniment of beautiful chimes rang out, once again filling the hall with exultation and pleasure. Sango was embraced and kissed gently on the cheek by all four ladies before being tenderly helped off the stage and into his ready arms, by her enraptured mate.
The applause and celebration died down once again and the members of the Royal Family of the West arrayed themselves along the edge of the platform until the knives were wiped and plunged into the flames once more, then cooled in blessed water, dried off, re-sheathed and re-wrapped.
Another scattering of incense was sprinkled into the ceremonial brazier by each Lord and Lady, and images of their blessing spirits danced in the flames as a final benediction: The Badger for the North, the Moon Bear for the East, the beautiful White Dog and the graceful Nekohinote, entwined and soared for the West, and finally the Black and Gold Jaguars for the South.
Sesshomaru and Kirara rejoined their family, scooping up Rin in their arms as Inuyasha and Kagome held Shippo. The table and incense were removed and the brazier moved to stand on the floor at the right side of the platform. It was time for the declaration of the Lineage.
The drums sounded as the Three other Lords of the Realms and their Ladies moved back to their places on the dais. There was a rustle of cloth and the entire audience, including the Lords of the Council rose to their feet. Then the drums fell silent followed by the deep-belled tone of the gong and finally, the mysterious and enchanting whisper of the chimes. Once again Mujiya Issaitouraku's rich voice rolled out over the room.
"Lords and Ladies of the Councils, Youkai Nobles of the Land, Loyal Attendants, Healers and Warriors; These Families of the Four Realms present: The Royal Family of the West. Lord Sesshomaru, Eldest Son of Inu No Taishou, Wielder of the Healing Fang Tenseiga, Honoured Patriarch of the Inushiro Line."
Sesshomaru walked gracefully forward and ascended the dais. He bowed to the Three Royal Families and then turned to face the audience. Two of the Lords from the Council; land-holding vassals of the West came forward with Obi, Datejime and Tanzen.
The representative of the new Lady of the East bound the red and white Obi in place over the simpler sash Sesshomaru had worn during most of the ceremony, while the Lord of the South placed the blue and yellow Datejime. Then the Daimyo himself placed the white mantle ornamented in the beautifully familiar red sakura blossoms, though larger and more thickly distributed than his usual style.
The audience bowed as one and Sesshomaru returned the gesture then stood aside as the next announcement was made, this in the soft, rich tones of Mujiya Izaitenjin's voice; The Haiguushousan, The Daimyo's Lady.
"Lords and Ladies of the Councils, Youkai Nobles of the Land, Faithful Attendants, Healers and Warriors; These Families of the Four Realms present: Lady Kirara, Last Daughter of the Neko No Yonshi, Warrior Princess of the Nekohinote, and Honoured Mate of the Inushiro Lord."
The picture of grace and beauty, Kirara ascended the Dias and bowed to the Three Royal Families as well. Then she too turned to face the audience. The Lady's attached to the Lords that brought forward Sesshomaru's garments approached with hers and then joined their Lords to return to their places.
The representative of the East bound the jewel-blue and white Obi over her simple sash, while the Lady of the South secured the blue and orange Datejime. Then the Haiguushousan helped Kirara into her beautiful Uchikake. It was her usual white, decorated elaborately with the graceful swirls of pale jewel-blue clouds.
Once again the audience bowed and she returned it, then accepted the formally offered hand of her handsome mate. They stood together as the declaration was completed.
"The Lord Sesshomaru and the Lady Kirara are declared the First Family of the West with the rights and responsibilities of the Honoured post passed on to all their future Blood-Heirs, here and thereafter."
The Gong sounded stridently and commandingly, punctuating the official declaration with it's unquestioning tones. Sesshomaru led Kirara to the far right side of the dais where they stood close together, and it was Inuyasha's turn.
"Lords and Ladies of the Councils, Youkai Nobles of the Land; Loyal Attendants, Healers and Warriors;" the Daimyo spoke again. " These Families of the Four Realms present: Lord Inuyasha, Second Son of Inu No Taishou, Wielder of the Great Fang Tetsusaiga, Honoured Scion of the Inushiro Line."
After the bows of greeting and honour, two different Council Lords delivered his garments, though the same Lords placed his garments ritualistically on his body. His Datejime remained orange and black and his crest remained the white ornamental maple leaves on the field of his favored red.
Kagome was "Lady Kagome, Second Daughter of the Shrine-keepers of Edo, Guardian of the Sacred Jewel and Honoured Mate of the Inushiro Heir." Her Obi was green and white, her Datejime red and ivory yellow and her crest was the beautiful dandelion pod and seedlings in green, clustered and scattered over a field of white.
Inuyasha couldn't help a surge of possessiveness and desire when their title of "Second Family of the West," was "passed on" to their future Blood-Heirs, and it was all he could do to keep from crushing her close against his hungry body and devouring her sweet mouth in a long passionate kiss.
Miroku was "Lord Miroku, Son of the Priest Tanseku, Master of the Deadly Wind Tunnel, Scion of the Inukasshoku Legacy, Honoured Legate of the Inushiro Line." His Obi was deep violet and black, his Datejime, white and brown and his crest was the Sacred Sutra of happiness and prosperity, the elegant Kanji configuration delicately rendered in violet on a black field. This was done in a silk Priest's Drape instead of a Tanzen. It looked impressive without being too ornate, pretentious or self-glorifying.
Sango was "Lady Sango, First Daughter of the Honourable Tajiyo Henseiseki of Ishikaoku, Wielder of the Demon-Boned Hiraikotsu, Princess of the Neko No Hayashi Legacy, Honoured Mate of the Inushiro Legate." Her Obi was rose and black, her Datejime amber and turquoise and her chosen crest was the willow leaf, depicted in black shadows on a deep rose field.
She and Miroku were given the title of "Third Family of the West," which was also accordingly "passed on" to their future Blood-Heirs. Inuyasha watched Miroku as he drew his lovely mate close against him and knew that he was struggling with the same impulses towards Sango that Inuyasha was struggling with, regarding Kagome.
Rin was honoured as the "First Daughter of the Inushiro Line" and dressed in an orange and yellow Obi, a red and white Datejime and an over kimono, Uchiyoku, decorated in orange plum-blossom on a white background.
Once she had gone through her Naming Ceremony, and Sesshomaru and Kirara made their mating "official" she would be elevated to "First Princess" and move up in the Family Lineage to directly after Inuyasha and Kagome, but before any children that they would have. Her heirs, however; would be behind Inuyasha and Kagome's heirs in their Lineage.
Oushiyokama and Kikyo were designated Fourth Family and Stewards of the Inushiro Lands, not the line.
Kikyo was "Lady Kikyo, Spirit Daughter of Edo, Kannushima of the Western Temple, Princess of the Kitsu No Ishitoro Legacy and Honoured Stewardess of the Inushiro Lands."
Oushiyokama was "Lord Oushiyokama, First Son of Shishi No Raionegami, Elite General of the Western Flank, Keeper of the Western Sanctum, Honoured Mate of the Inushiro Steward."
The titles of "Steward" and "Fourth Family," were "passed on" to their future Blood-Heirs, and both Kikyo and Oushiyokama blushed. Then Shippo got his moment in the sun.
Shippo was titled as the "Second Son," of the Inushiro Line and dressed in a green and blue Obi, a yellow and black Datejime and a Katakinu vest decorated with his green Bin-leaf Crest on a field of blue.
Once his Naming Ceremony was complete and Inuyasha and Kagome made their mating "official," He would be elevated to "Second Prince" and move up in the Family Lineage to directly after Miroku and Sango, but above any heirs that they had. Any children that he had, however; would be behind their heirs in the future Lineage.
It didn't matter. The love that the small, odd family had for each-other was the only thing that was really important to any of them.
When the declaration was finished, Rin was in Sesshomaru and Kirara's arms again and Shippo on Inuyasha's shoulders. It appeared that he might have grown another three inches during the course of the Ceremony.
The Ceremony ended in more bows from the Royal Family of the West to the Three Families of the Realms, which were delightedly returned; to the Lords of the Councils, which were politely returned; and then to the audience again, which were deeply returned.
Then as the music of drums and the light ripple of chimes rang out once again, they led the way out of the great hall, and to another rich feast and merry atmosphere. The second celebration had been a success.
Interlude: The Birth of Fear
Jakan knelt tensely by the side of the struggling Kumo. He had a strip of toweling wrapped around his brow, and his long hair was tied back in a mixed tail and back-knot. The pretty lavender kimono he wore as a yukate, was stained in blood and soaked with perspiration. Next to him, writhing on the bed, Naraku bit down on the leather roll trying to ease the pain and smother his screams.
Wearing nothing but a now thoroughly water and blood-soaked fundoshi, the dark Hanyo gripped tightly at the edges of the hard carapace-covered growth on his lower abdomen, which continued to crack and leak the life-giving fluids, as it slowly swelled and split itself open down the middle.
Inside would be the pinnacle of his goals: Two real Youkai infants, far different from the demonic incarnations that he had been creating so far. Considering how they had been conceived, Jakan was more than a little horrified at the potential darkness these strong, tainted power-fed Youkai could develop. They may have been infants, but he feared that they would be far from innocent.
It had been slightly before midnight, by his estimation, though who knew what the true time was in this miasma-choked Hell of Castle, when he had been roughly awakened by the Dark Daiyoukai, he feared, perhaps even more than Naraku. This was not unusual. Lately his brief respite from torture and usury, had ended, and Jakan had most often been the object of this one's darkest and cruelest amusements.
"Wake up, Uke." The Dark One had growled. "You seem to enjoy playing the Bitch, now is your chance to try your hand at midwifery."
Jakan ignored the obvious protest that the beautiful, often delicate kimonos that the Wind Sorceress Kagura had left behind, were the only clothing he was allowed to wear, and followed his orders unquestioningly. Sometimes it served to spare him some pain. He was dragged into the large, grand bedchamber to find Naraku upon the futon struggling in the throes of childbirth!
Fortunately, Jakan had some experience in such matters, and for a brief, bitterly amusing time, he had the dark, fearsome duo, jumping to his commands. Jaromaru, Kohaku and Kanna were dragged into the chamber too. They were all to witness the birth of their newest masters.
From the very start, it had been a difficult birth, more than likely because Naraku was both not fully Youkai, and not a natural-born Beta. Natural Semes could designate themselves uke, if they willingly conceded to one stronger than them, but this was only done if there was no choice. Only through conceding themselves Beta, would they be able to bear children, but such births were more often than not, quite dangerous and painful, even though the children born of such pairings, were usually particularly strong.
It was almost done now, and with a last colossal effort from the two men pulling on the outside and the little ones kicking from the inside, the hard birthing shell cracked the final few inches. With a last roar of pain from Naraku, he and Jakan pulled the two sides apart to expose the bloody wound against his stomach, and the dark birth blood poured out over his hips and thighs and onto the covered bed.
Jakan almost screamed aloud. The two creatures that grasped at their new lives with sharp-taloned hands, had hell-fire red eyes and hungry, feral expressions. It was all Jakan could do to reach in and help pull them out of their bloody sockets within the womb-pouch. They snapped at his hands with sharp, needle-like teeth; already full mouths of them. True, youkai's teeth all grew in within the first 4 months of life, but never like this.
Much to his silent relief, his help was not required. The Dark One surged forward, pushing Jakan roughly aside, as he grabbed for the nearest little horror with both hands and pulled it out into the world. Other than being covered in blood, toothed and clawed and red-eyed, it was a perfectly formed infant. The head was already covered in thick dark curls and the body was strong and flawless.
The long birth cord trailed from the navel, slimy and writhing, finishing at last with the birthing sack which was ripped from it's host-body with another cry of pain on Naraku's part. Regardless of the agony, the Kumo plunged his own hands in and pulled out the second squalling, hissing monster.
This one was just as perfectly formed, but it's hair was straight and white. They were both quickly revealed to be boys, coming forth fully aroused and blood-thirsty into the repulsed horror of the heated chamber.
"This one is the Hanyo." The Dark One purred. "He is absolutely perfect; he looks like you, Rabamyou."
"This one has your marks, Nushi." Naraku replied. "He will be strong and deadly."
"They must be fed." The Dark One spoke. He strode forward suddenly and seized Kanna by one arm, dragging her back towards the bed and leaving dark, bloody hand-prints on her white kimono. He thrust the dripping, bloody birth sack towards her lips. "Eat it, Girl!"
The fresh terror, revulsion and despair Jakan saw in the pale girl's eyes, was heart-rending and horrifying, as was the anguish on the boy, Kohaku's face.
Jakan caught Naraku watching avidly. Had he truly changed her just for the purpose of forcing negative emotions upon her fragile shoulders? The idea made Jakan sick, just as his heart felt like it would break, every time she wandered into his chamber to touch the soft, pretty kimonos in the chest. "Oneesan." She would whisper, her voice barely a breath against his skin, and a glitter of tears would cling briefly to her lashes.
He knew his heart was softening towards her, just as it had towards Rin, though he rarely had admitted that, until recently. This pale child was much like Rin in many ways, but much more deeply hurt, and not nearly as strong.
Despite the deeply ingrained disgust and loathing Jakan felt for these new Hell-spawned creatures, the instinct to protect Kanna and the boy was overwhelming. He started to speak up, volunteering his own trembling body as the vessel for these creatures' food, when the dark-haired one caught sight of it's twin brother.
With a shriek of rage and greed, it sprang at him tearing, clawing and devouring the birth-sack, cord, and perhaps even the child himself! His brother screamed out his challenge and retaliated. The two Hellions clawed and bit and snarled with such ferocity that Jakan was sure that they were going to kill each other!
Their siblings recoiled in shock and disgust, but the two Lords watched with intense pride. Once the last remains of the afterbirth were completely devoured, the two creatures settled down to a restless and expectant truce, which breathed of a still simmering rage.
Their eyes had changed. The white-haired one had eyes of fierce magenta, and a most disturbing mark on his forehead. It matched the mark that the Dark Lord had on his brow: a deep orange shadow-moon, the New Moon, when many other Youkai were at their weakest.
The dark-haired "Hanyo," had no marks but there were a disturbingly familiar pair of appendages that now unfolded from his still blood-wet scalp and his black soul looked out at the world from a very familiar pair of amber eyes.
"They are still hungry." Naraku purred, "But it is not milk that will sustain them." His red eyes gleamed malevolently. "Jakan, Jaromaru; you will serve as their first meal in this world."
Terror filled Jakan once again, before Jaromaru stepped foreward. Kami! He looked so beautiful. The sleeveless kataginu with it's attractive olive and ivory crest-like design, showed off his magnificent physique to it's best advantage.
His long lavender hair spilled about his shoulders and back, even longer than when Jakan had first set eyes on him, and his stormy-blue eyes were sharp and fierce.
The black hakamas clung enticingly to his narrow hips and strong, lean legs, and because he wore no robe beneath the kataginu, tempting half-moons of pale, noble flesh showed provocatively through the gaps along the laced sides of his trousers.
"Leave the Ou' Dai be." Jakan couldn't help, but feel a slight stab of pain at the coldness in the Warrior's voice, even though both understood the necessity to keep their relationship concealed from their black-hearted masters. "He is fatigued and weakened from assisting with the birth. I will feed them both."
The glee in the two Lords faces was almost palpable."Very well, My Perfect Brute. Your strength will serve well." Naraku spoke. "Bare yourself. Your brothers must receive their full nourishment."
His lover's beautiful body blurred over with Jakan's unbidden tears, as Jaromaru stoically obeyed the orders that he could not defy, but even through his sorrow Jakan saw the feral and ravenous gleam that reddened the child demons' luminous eyes once more and twisted their innocent faces into a sickening parody of monstrosity.
"Hakudoshi, Moryomaru." Naraku continued. "This is your brother Jaromaru; his blood is powerful, and sweet to the taste."
The two Ghouls fixed their blood-red eyes on Jaromaru's tall, strong figure, then hissed maliciously, fangs barred. Jakan heard Kanna scream as they launched themselves at their glorious sacrifice. Then there was only fear.
Glossary:
Creative License:
Kunzushe: A youkai word taken from the word "kanzashi," which is a term used for the elaborate ornaments women wear in their hair. In my world, Youkai seek to ornament both males and females equally, so the word means simply, kanzashi for men.
Inukasshoku: Combines a word for brown "kasshoku" and the word for dog. Final translation: Brown Dog, meaning the brown dog-demons in contrast to the white dog-demons that rule the West.
Neko No Hayashi: The Diayoukai spirit that blesses Sango. It translates as "Cat of the Forest," or "The Forest Cat."
Nekokoudo: The type of Daiyoukai that blessed Sango. It translates as Earth (koudo) and Cat (neko) or Earth Cat. I interpret that earth to be nature, not just barren soil.
Neko No Yonshi: This is the name of Kirara's now extinct Daiyoukai family. It was a creative combining of "Yo" the Japanese term for the "yang" of the yin-yang principle, and the "Ki" or "Chi" referring to the life energy that Martial artists often draw on for their strength or skill, but that can be applied to other areas of productive living as well. With a little fudging of pronunciation and spelling , I translate the name roughly as "Cat of Good Energy," or "The Good Energy Cat," which explains why all who travel with a Neko No Yonshi go on to do great and productive things. Besides Yonshi just sounds more dignified than Yochi.
Nekohinote: The type of Daiyoukai that Kirara is, at her full power. It translates as Fire (hinote) and Cat (neko), or Fire Cat. I know that Kilala in her Demi-Youkai original form is often referred to as a firecat, but to avoid confusion between the Demi-Youkai and the Daiyoukai forms, I call Kilala's "cursed" form "Two-tail," as she has often been referred to in the anime.
Haiguushousan: This word I made by combining the word for husband or wife "Haiguusha" (so it's more like "spouse"), the term I adapted to mean high rank "Shou" (See my glossary in the previous chapter) and the standard polite honorific used when addressing anyone with respect, "San." Together it makes a combination that translates roughly into "Honoured High Rank Spouse." It seemed a suitable title for the mate of a Daimyo.
Rabamyou: Explained once before. It combines a word for lover "raba" and a word for dark "myou." Simply put, it translates as "Dark Lover."
Normal Words:
Ikimono: Defined once before. This means "animal" or "living thing." In this case I use it as the name of a Daiyoukai's powerful bestial form, like Sesshomaru's glorious white Inu form.
Ojiisan: Grandfather; the most respectful term I could find.
Nushi: This is another word for lover, but it can also mean owner, master or god, which I thought was an absolute treasure of a find and very approbriate for the situation.
Kataginu: This is a sleeveless vest-like garment that is often considered a necessary part of a Sengoku Jidai Noble's formal attire. It was usually worn over the haorie (See my definition in the last chapter), but sometimes it was also worn instead of a haori, over a nicely decorated nagajuban (also defined last chapter). It could also be worn as a decorative outer layer over armor or over a karaginu, what the type of jacket that serves as Inuyasha's "Coat of the Fire-Rat" is actually called.
Names:
Tanseku: The name I chose for Miroku's father. It combines a word for handsome (tansei-- handsome, noble) and air (tenkuu), because though I can imagine him as handsome (considering what his son looks like) and noble, we know very little of him. What we do see of him is a shadowed figure being devoured by his Wind Tunnel, thus he is both like air, and consumed by it.
Henseiseki: The name I chose for Sango's father. Both Sango and Kohaku are named for stones (Sango, coral; and I cannot remember what Kohaku's stone is), so I continued (or perhaps began) the tradition with their father. His name means Lapis Lazuli. I chose it simply because the trim on his armor was blue.
Titles:
Oh boy, this is going to take a while, but all the titles I gave our beloved characters have a method to their madness.
I chose them according to the Chinese Zodiac and the discussions of each compass direction.
There was actually no original Japanese word that just meant "West," but there was a word; touzainanboku, that translated to east, west, south and north. I broke it up into four pieces (probably incorrectly) and used each section as a suffix to form the full title: East: Tou; West: Zai; South: Nan; North: Boku.
For the ladies I added a simple rank to build their titles. For other details of both the male and female titles, I borrowed some elements from other languages.
Mujiyaboku No Issaitouraku-Daimyo: "The Daimyo Issaitouraku, Northern Badger Lord"
Rajanan No Kuroneko-Sama: Raja is taken from the Indian word for "King," often represented by the magnificent tiger. Since there was no word for Jaguar, that seemed the closest, I could come. The final result, I have creatively tweaked to translate as "The Southern Jaguar Lord, Kuroneko."
Uruatou No Yakiayoko-Sama: There was no Japanese word for bear, so I tweaked the Latin word "Ursa" (As In Ursa Major, the Big Bear, or more commonly: The Big Dipper constellation) to give her a proper title. It translates as "The Eastern Bear Lady Yakiayoko."
Inuzai No Sesshomaru-Sama: "The Western Dog Lord Sesshomaru."
Ladies:
Mujiya No Izaitenjin Kyosan: "The High Badger Lady Izaitenjin."
Nekoyonshi No Kirara Chisan: "The Nekoyonshi Lady Intendant Kirara." (Her mating with Sesshomaru is known and accepted, but not formalized, so officially she is not yet the Lady of the West)
Raja No Nekokinhara Shousan: "The Honoured Jaguar Lady Nekokinhara."
Legates and Heirs:
Inuzai No Inuyasha-Wakasama No Shiro: "The White Dog Prince of the West Inuyasha."
Inukasshoku No Miroku-Sousama: "The Brown Dog Priest-Lord Miroku." (Since he was blessed by the spirit of the Brown Dog Demon)
Nekohayashi No Sango Tajiyasan: "The Nekohayashi Lady-Slayer Sango." (Since she was blessed by the Neko No Hayashi)
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Well, that's about it, my friends and I hope that the information at the end wasn't too overwhelming. Thank you again for your patience and your continued interest in my work. I can't believe how many visitors I am getting to this simple story. I really appreciate it. Sorry about the little cliffie at the end there, but we have to break up all this ceremony with a little foreboding foreshadowing, or you guys might get bored ;)
Thank you again to all my reviewers: Nightstar28, KazunaPikachu, Murasahki-Chan, xLittleBlackStarx, FallenAngel699 and Dare9179. Your support inspires me to continue and really means a lot. I love you guys and hope to continue to hear from you.
Finally, I hope all of you had a great Christmas, or whatever holidays you support and cherish, and wish all of you the best 2009 ever! Thanks again to all of you. All my best.
DoS