Chapter 21
"Too slow," the demon slayer remarked sweeping Kagome's legs right from under her.
The black haired inuyoukai snarled as she recovered her stance by quickly falling backwards and doing a flip to gain some distance on the other side of the arena. She'd only spent a month away from training when her pregnancy had been at its climax, but already she was in the habit of falling for dirty tricks.
"You won't get me like that again demon slayer!" Kagome smirked quickly brandishing the Magia and throwing a small wind scar Sango's way.
Sango revealed her amazing upper body strength as she used her Hiraikotsu as a shield whilst flinging her body out of the way. She took a deep breath always able to stand up to a demon in battle when she needed to, but on her own she could only last for so long before her muscles were began to ache. It wasn't often she was in battles against demons who were armed with mythical weapons, but she'd challenged Kagome to bring all her skills wanting the demoness to train her body back to where it had been before Reimei was born.
"You can't protect yourself forever," Kagome chuckled leaping into the air with intentions of coming down on top of Sango for a lethal strike.
It was true that this arena was intended for Sesshoumaru's use since his training was to be non-stop until Kovu arrived, but Kagome needed this adrenaline. She'd been too excited to get back into fighting shape and found that this was a great distraction from worrying herself about Sesshoumaru's fate. She was sure her mate was secretly worried enough for the both of them so she had to keep her head high and act as though life had returned to normal.
"I promise you we'll have our bout next," Inutashio announced standing next to his oldest son whom kept his eyes on Kagome ever since her battle began.
"Am I worthy enough for you father?" Sesshoumaru simply asked, "I was never able to defeat that damned reptile. If I am no longer capable of slaying a dragon how will I stand up to you?"
"In my eyes you have already improved past my expectations," the demon Lord congratulated, "prior to losing your arm you would have continued to believe you were untouchable and find all this training beneath you. Now you know your limits and believe me that is a strength most don't have. It allows you to take a moment and be more strategic with your moves making all of them count. The little tiger cub won't stand a chance. You will defeat him, do your father proud, and then peace will finally be restored to this home."
Inutashio was ready for this to all be over with so he could leave knowing his family was safe before driving his claws into the heart of that damn bat. He and Inukimi were not always the most proper of mates, but now that he knew what this Radoromaru had done to his mate and how long the insult had gone unpunished his rage against that clan would be unyielding. The only thing that was stopping him from rushing back East was the fact that InuYasha and Akuma were already in those lands, and if something horrible were to befall Sesshoumaru the estate would have no Lord to protect the females and pups.
Even Amethyst had gone off for a little bit to do some of her own training, at least that was what Inutashio had been informed, but knew she wouldn't be gone for too long as she hated leaving InuYasha's pups to their own devices.
Sesshoumaru absorbed his father's words, but kept his eyes on Kagome the whole time watching as she somehow missed Sango a few times. He knew the demon slayer would wear out eventually and Kagome would win, but it shouldn't take this long to defeat a human. His mate's skills had definitely become a bit rusty.
"This battle will now have a time limit," Sesshoumaru announced, "you have ten more seconds Kagome."
Ten more seconds before Kagome lost to a human, and the demoness just couldn't allow that. Still she hadn't counted on Sango being as fast as she was. She'd severely underestimated the demon slayer, and made her realize that battling to this degree wasn't reserved just for demons.
"You're done Sango," Kagome growled ready steal the same dirty tactic used on her attempting to kick Sango's legs out from under her.
"Nice try!" Sango panted grasping her Hiraikotsu tightly before diving the tip of the weapon right into Kagome's leg.
"The demon slayer is victorious," Sesshoumaru announced putting his remaining fist under his chin watching as Kagome fell to the ground clutching her leg, which would probably be badly bruised in a few moments.
"I'm sorry my Lady Kagome," Sango frowned throwing away her weapon before falling on her knees to help her.
"I'm fine," Kagome growled feeling a bit sore, "your weapon is strong, but not strong enough to shatter my leg if that's what you fear."
"Perhaps my mate should take to the life of sewing in her free time since her body no longer has the skill for battle," Sesshoumaru attempted to taunt her to test something.
"Perhaps my mate should keep his opinions to himself!" Kagome snapped forcing herself to her feet, "next time we'll battle without weapons and I will win."
"Claws are your natural weapon so it'd be quite unfair if I cannot arm myself for my own protection my Lady," Sango said bowing trying to remember the courtesies of demon court.
"Of course it would be unfair demon slayer," Sesshoumaru growled, "don't mind Kagome. Despite years of practice she still can't accept defeat graciously never blaming herself for her own failures. Kagome do you still believe your demonic blood and past victories entitles you to always being victorious? Because it doesn't, and this constant behavior of yours is unbecoming of you."
Kagome growled. What the hell did they want from her? Before becoming demon she couldn't think of a single competition she'd ever involved in, so good sportsmanship was not something that could come to her naturally. All she knew was it didn't feel good to lose.
"Really Sesshoumaru?" she went over to him and stared him down, "you of all demons are labeling others entitled? I'd say hypocrisy is quite unbecoming of you!"
"I'm not the role model for our daughter, that would be you, and besides haven't you heard father's praise of me? I have changed and will most likely make less mistakes than you in battle when it counts."
"I never lose when it counts may I remind you, but it's nice that you think you're stronger because your daddy told you so."
"My beautiful daughter in name," Inutashio chuckled, "are you jealous of the praise I give my son? If I recall you didn't fair too well against Akuma either and with this recent loss of yours to a human I'm afraid I cannot give you any, but don't worry you'll have a long life ahead of you to continue impressing me as you have in the past."
They were acting as though Kagome's best years in battle prowess was long behind her, and it was time to retire happy with the few victories she'd achieved. That didn't sit well with the demoness.
"I'm not the one that will be fighting for my life my Lord, so let us hope my mate is indeed stronger than me. Once he wins and we have a bit of normalcy I intend to change the scale of power and will be entitled to not only your praise, but my stubborn mate's as well."
Sesshoumaru chuckled, "Is my mate upset I don't compliment her enough?"
"Your mate is upset to be constantly underestimated by a group of foolish demon men, but I will apologize to you Sango. Now that my blood has calmed down I must say you are a shining example to how strong a human woman can be. I am glad you are staying with us and being a good role model for the girls. I hope when Reimei gets older she can train with you as well."
That brought a smile to Sango's face, "Don't listen to them my Lady. You know that training is everything and once your body has returned to form your mate can no longer pick on you. I am honored by you and hope to stay in your service as long as possible."
Sango had thought that there was a time limit to her duty here, but since Ember had come and gone from Dragonsbane a few times without exchanging any words it seemed the demon slayer was mistaken. She was expected to be loyal to Sunset Isles and ready to beg Ember to be dismissed so she could remain by Kyra's side, but it seemed the demoness no longer even thought about her. At least the noble demons here respected her.
Kagome's ears lowered as she was quickly irritated by the sound of metal rubbing against stone. It was times like this she really despised her demon abilities.
"Lord Sesshoumaru here is your sword," Rin said happily dragging the Tokijin behind her.
"Rin," Sesshoumaru snarled seeing his mate's discomfort, "if you cannot hold a sword properly then don't bother touching it."
"You asked for it though my Lord."
"Yes, but that was before I knew you'd pollute our ears with such a disturbing sound!"
"Leave my granddaughter alone," Inutashio said ready to enter the arena to assess his son's skills, "you never heeded my words when you were a boy always dragging my swords about the castle, so why should she?"
"Because she is in my charge and will do as I say," Sesshoumaru growled at Rin ripping the sword out of her little hands, "especially when both her father and his mate away. Someone around here must take responsibility."
"Don't listen to him Rin," Kagome smiled at the child, "Lord Sesshoumaru tells me you have been doing a great job. I just hope you don't let his harsh words get to you. He thinks his status in this life entitles him to not having any manners."
"Says the sore loser," Sesshoumaru smirked holding the sword in his hand while using his tail to pull his mate into him, "I cannot promise you I will win against my father, but I can promise you Rin is just fine. Anyway, once training is done and you've checked in on Reimei I was hoping to have you this evening."
Kagome rolled her eyes pushing his mokomoko away, "We shall see my Lord. I have a long evening ahead of me making sure the estate is ready for Kovu's visit."
His words meant exactly as they sounded. Sesshoumaru had made no secret that he wanted her in his bed willing to mate again before he was to risk his life in battle, but Kagome couldn't help but to be a bit hesitant. Reimei being conceived quite quickly was proof that Sesshoumaru did have power over her body baring children, and that was not something Kagome was comfortable with. She honestly couldn't trust him to not play God in that situation, and pregnancy was not something she was ready to rush back into. There was still a chance her mate could die in battle, and if so she wasn't going to bare his fatherless child no matter how much he wanted a male heir.
"I said we shall see," she growled at him when his tail kept trying to find her, "hurry up and lose already so we can get on with our day."
He growled in return letting his tail return to place not understanding why she was keeping such distance. His life might be on a time limit, so it seemed unlike his 'loving' mate to be so adverse to affection.
"You will be ready to wash my father's blood off of my sword when the battle is finished," Sesshoumaru sternly let Rin know, "and then you will be free to enjoy your day. Clearly I have nothing planned for the rest of my evening."
"Yes Lord Sesshoumaru," Rin answered back quickly ready to stand on the sidelines for when her Lord needed something, "good luck."
The girl never thought she'd actually enjoy serving Lord Sesshoumaru, but she found comfort in being in the presence of such a strong demon. Especially when her own parental figures were gone, and unlike her father and Aimee who always seemed to just want to pity her Lord Sesshoumaru wanted her to better herself. It was a great feeling to impress him while at the same time learning to be 'useful'. She was getting more of an education from being in his service than she ever did listening to her teachers drone on.
"I never thought I'd see the day someone of InuYasha's blood wishing you luck," Inutashio smirked as their battle begun.
There wasn't much from the meeting with her father, Radormaru, to report to anyone about. He was indeed powerful with many other demons in his charge, but still hard to consider him a father or take any pride in his accomplishments when Amethyst only just now found out about him. Still she was thankful for the journey and of the knowledge Lady Luna had shared with her.
It was already hard to forgive any of Inukimi's actions thus far, but lying to her about her heritage for her whole life was the last straw. She'd never be able to accept Inukimi as her mother after all the lies, so Aimee was thankful for her newfound friendship with Lady Luna.
"It's never too late to turn back my Lady," Luna had told the purple haired hanyou as they made their way back westward, "Lord Radormaru did invite you to join his court."
"Join the rest of his bastard children?" Aimee asked with a frown, "I'll make an effort to let my family into my life, but my duties are in Dragonsbane. InuYasha was sent away to do who knows what, so those pups need somebody. Just a few days away is a few too many."
"Do you love those pups?" The moon demoness asked, "well… pup and the human girl?"
"Rin and Kiyomi," Aimee made sure to correct, "I didn't choose to have InuYasha in my life nor did he choose me, but mates mate for life and his children will be my own."
"When will you have your own children if I may ask?"
"Perhaps never. I don't feel the need. When I inherit my lands I can simply will them to the girls upon my passing. Doesn't matter who their mothers are none of my children will have the advantages of Sesshoumaru and Kagome's, so might as well work with what I got and keep the numbers low."
That was a disappointment to Lady Luna. She wouldn't have to go through such theatrics to get her plan to come together if she had more loyal disciples of the moon to bring to her side, but none of the moon's children were breeding as often as they should. She'd bring a few more pups into the world herself it weren't for the disappointment she received when her youngest daughter had been born in darkness; hence why she had to beckon Radormaru to put his seed in Inukimi all those years ago.
"Do you believe your mother will still pass on her half of the West to you despite your current feelings for her?"
"She will, and if she does not I will take them myself. I feel as though I am owed at least that much after all the lies and abuse I've suffered at her hands."
"You are quite ambitious my Lady. If only I'd been able to come to you sooner and was able to gift the power your crescent moon marking entitles you to."
Aimee, much like the rest of her family, had no interest in religion finding action did a lot more for them than prayer ever would, but Luna had introduced her to truths no one else had, so the least she could do was humor the woman that came all the way out east with her.
"Perhaps it isn't too late for me Lady Luna," Aimee sighed not knowing she was playing right into this woman's hands, "tell me about your beliefs. I would think since I was born with this holy birth mark upon my head I am entitled to the information, or am I not?"
"You most certainly are," Luna's smile would appear wicked to most, "You'll have to forgive me though if it sounds like a demon crone is just speaking nonsense to you. Most of our holy scriptures and artifacts were destroyed long ago when I was only a pup, but it's not too difficult to grasp."
"It's okay. We still have more than day of journey back to Dragonsbane."
"Very well. The simple tale is once before there were any kingdoms or any of the civilized tribes in the world only humans lived and cared for the land, which was provided by a great wolf deity who protected them and provided for them in exchange for the sacrifices they made for the moon. The moon was the power source of this great deity, and made its fur shine brighter than any light source, but sadly the deity had a great enemy."
"As all proud canines do I assume," Aimee knew right away this faith wouldn't be for her older brother for he'd never accept a time where humans were left to their own devices with no ruling demons.
"I don't remember exactly word for word the scripture's description of this creature, but it was said it resembled a boar with eyes that always bled and breath that conjured the fires of hell. It was at war with the great wolf deity, but thanks to the power of the moon the dark beast could never be successful. Peace, however, could not remain eternal as human hearts began to desire lust and material possessions. Caring more about their lands and coins humans ceased worshipping the God that had given them so much and the powerful wolf was unable to protect itself against the boar. Despite becoming unloved by the humans the wolf wouldn't lose its love for the land it protected and refused to see it fall into darkness, so it sacrificed itself to destroy its enemy leaving the land safe, but yet without the fortune it was once provided. It is said storms and earthquakes only came into existence after our God fell."
"I highly doubt that, but it makes sense we live in a godless world. Recent events is evidence of that. So are us youkai nothing more than natural disasters then?"
"We're not disasters, just creatures born of the sacrifice. Youkai were the pieces of the great evil boar scattered about who quickly bred and filled the world claiming it for their own with hearts full of greed and vanity. We call these demons the ones born in darkness, but luckily for us all pieces of the mighty loving wolf deity also gave birth to youkai life. These beings were marked by the moon and empowered as they were the last hope to bring goodness into this world. Mostly the crescent moon mark blesses wolves, dogs, and bats but despite race their purpose is all the same, which is to purge this world of darkness and pave the way for our god to return so we can all live in peace once more with a world of our own."
In response Aimee simply shrugged, "It's a great tale Lady Luna I give you that, but I refuse to believe demons such as Inutashio and my half demon mate are bad simply because they don't have a moon mark on their forehead."
"That has nothing to do with the creatures we descend from! That's just life and the morals living creatures create for themselves. Not everything is black and white, but the point is we were blessed with the power of the moon to help in the holy mission. I'm not promising we'll save this world in our lifetimes, but all of us are a pieces to a divine puzzle."
Luna knew her religion was not something that could be explained all in one setting. Aimee wasn't ready to hear about how they would achieve salvation or that she was possibly the chosen one as it would probably scare her off, and if that happened Luna wouldn't be able to convince her of what needed to come next.
"Yeah yeah pieces of the puzzle, but tell me what powers does the moon bestow upon you?" Aimee was ready to get into the real meat of it all.
The wicked smile had returned to Luna, "Well here we are in a large open field with no enemy demons lurking to disturb us. How about I show you."
The few loyal followers Luna had were all converted the moment they saw a display of her power. She planned for Aimee to be no different. The girl would be hers in a matter of hours.
"Alright," Aimee had a smile of her own ready for some action to get her mind off certain hardships that plagued her, "let's see what you can do."
Luna shook her head, "I am just a religious woman wanting to enlighten others as my fighting days are far behind me. I'd like to show you what the moon can do for you if you believe in it and your natural gifts. Tell me Aimee, despite being that of a mix race you are still a full youkai, so can you power yourself into a true form without much effort just as your brother can?"
"I have never tried to be honest. Inukimi said I probably can't achieve it and I should put my mind elsewhere."
"Your mother doesn't have much hope for her children, and that saddens me. As you know it takes a lot of power and emotion to transform, and after that a lot of training to focus and have control over it. With the power of the moon we are going to skip all of that and get to the good parts. Are you ready to trust me and be all you can be?"
Aimee didn't know about this. It was a lot of work just as she said to achieve that level of power, and she didn't believe there was anyway to just 'skip all of that' to obtain it, but really what did she have to lose?
"Fine. Do what you need to do to make a believer out of me."
"That's all I wanted to hear Aimee," Luna walked over to her and held the girl's hands looking as though she was about to pray, "despite the sun trying to overshadow you I feel your power and love mystic moon above. I know I have no right to ask anything of you for I am just your humble servant, but I have serviced you most of my life and will continue to do so, so please heed my call. Lady Amethyst has not paid for the right to share in your power yet, so I ask you not to be insulted by what I must do in order to bring this child of the moon to her true calling. I have no choice but to stand in for you, as a false idol, and share my majestic power you've bestowed upon me on to this girl."
Luna removed her hands from Aimee before taking one of her claws to pierce her own skin on the palm of her hand. Once she shed her own blood she used her claw as a pencil, bringing it up to Aimee's forehead she traced the crescent moon birthmark in blood. Before Aimee could complain about how unhygienic this practice was she could feel her birthmark seer hot into her forehead for only a few minutes before the pain was numbed by the intense power surge she could feel within her.
Lady Luna backed away watching Aimee glow with power as a deep royal blue aura surrounded her and her eyes turned a deep purple color, "You can feel it can't you? That is the power of the moon, but now it's time to exercise the power before it wears out. Let go of all your fears and doubt Lady Amethyst and just transform. You don't even need to think about it. Just want it and it will be yours."
Aimee didn't even know how to begin the transformation process, but Luna hadn't lied to her yet so she just did as advised and stopped thinking about it. Instead she thought about what she wanted, and that was to be able to run on four legs for as long as she wanted to with no one to stop her.
The power surged within her again as Aimee's purple eyes widened on her face and nose became pointed while her fangs became sharper. The transformation process had begun and nothing would stop it now as flesh became fur and words became fierce growls. Luna marveled in her creation as Aimee stood before her on four legs as a large light purple dog only a bit smaller than Inukimi's form. Due to her species, however, Aimee had an impressive set of fur lines wings on her back and impressive coned ears much like a bat.
"And that child of the moon is the result of my faith," Luna smiled, "I don't plan on displaying much of my own strength, but I think a run is in order. We'll return to Dragonsbane in no time."
Aimee howled while Luna transformed into her own four legged form. Once both dogs were ready they took off running and soaking in the sun light flying past the lands of the west in no time much like how Sesshoumaru and Inutashio normally patrolled their lands. This power was exhilarating to Aimee to say the least. With her power as it normally was she guessed that she would only ever be just a bit stronger than InuYasha and Kagome, but inferior to all the other demons that could change form. What she'd be able to do in this form, however, would change everything as her speed, hearing, and ability to glide would be unmatched.
The moon was almost full with its light practically glowing upon when them when they got close to Dragonsbane just before the transformation wore off and Aimee found herself falling right into a large puddle just on the outskirts of the estates territory.
"I wasn't ready for that!" Aimee growled pulling herself up disgusted with the amount of mud and water ruining her kimono.
Luna stopped to void her own true form before chuckling, "Sorry child, but as I told you the power you just used was on loan from me and had its limitations. Next time, however, you will have to achieve those heights on your own as I don't believe the moon will permit me to share with you again."
The feeling of having all that amazing power stored within her and then losing it felt like a horrible hangover. Aimee held her hand to her head trying to recover from the headache as her eyes went back to normal.
"So what do I need to do to earn that power Lady Luna," she growled in discomfort, "pray a lot and read scriptures? I need it. No one can deny me my own lands and no one will be able to hurt InuYasha or his kin if I could have the ability to do that at will."
"If there were scriptures all they would do is tell you the 'why' with the legend of our God and the power of the moon. What you need is the 'how' and we'll take that journey one step at a time. Prayer is how you communicate with the moon to ask for its power, but nothing is free my Lady. Payment must be made, but before you can barter with the divine we must have a ceremony so you can declare your unwavering loyalty to the moon."
"What kind of payment does a glowing orb in the sky want? Cheese? Kiyomi would like that, because she is convinced that's what the moon is made of."
"I'm opening the door to you for great opportunity and still you insult me. No you will discover what payment is during the ceremony, and we'll hold off on that until the time of Sesshoumaru's battle with Kovu. He must not be allowed to lose so we'll beg the moon to give him strength while at the same time blessing you. Sound like a plan my Lady?"
Aimee gave her a fanged smile, "It does indeed. Now if you'll excuse me I need to see Rin and Kiyomi and let them know nothing will ever hurt this family again."
Aimee, however, would have to wait a bit longer as the moment she'd returned to Dragonsbane Kyra had informed her she needed to get dressed into something not covered in mud and join the family for dinner. Kovu had arrived today and would be dining with the family tonight as his battle to the death with Sesshoumaru would be scheduled the next day. Great, so she'd have to wait even longer before being reunited with what she considered her children, but still she felt as though she needed to be there for her brother and Kagome.
The kimono she'd changed into was pretty plain, but what did it matter? Obviously the plan was for Kovu to die tomorrow, so if the upstart cub was offended by her appearance it wouldn't matter for long. It seemed like Kagome had the same idea since her light purple plain sleeveless dress was nothing to brag about, but most likely that was the result of Kagome still not hiring a Lady's maid yet.
"Ah my dear Amethyst," she hadn't been expecting Inukimi to be here drinking wine with the family as though she wasn't one of the worst mothers in the known world, "where have you been?"
Aimee forgot her manners as she sat down across from her mother with a snarl, "I was unaware you were entitled to any information regarding my whereabouts since you made it clear I wasn't entitled to that of my mate's. If I find out you sent InuYasha away in his grief to run some stupid meaningless errand I will go back to The Claw and torch your lovely estate so I can be heiress of the ashes."
Inukimi didn't reply. Aimee's scent had answered any question the Lady Mother had. Inukimi could smell her mother on her child, so she knew the two had been somewhere sharing quality time. Her stupid brain should have let her know that was most likely going to happen since she sent InuYasha away, but it couldn't be helped now. Everyone's focus needed to be Sesshoumaru. The dreadful issue that was Lady Luna needed to be put off for just a little bit longer.
"Ladies please," their daiyoukai Lord growled at them, "this is what I was telling you about Kovu. Exchanges like that is why our family only gets together at dinner to treat with guests."
The young tiger demon chuckled, "I'm glad my presence can bring your family together then my Lord. Trust me it's quite alright. My sisters, daughters, and breeders can't go one meal together without someone's hair getting ripped out. I believe the problem with women is that unlike most of us males where we confront our issues head on they bottle their emotions up all day and explode on each other later. I congratulate you on the birth of your daughter Lord Sesshoumaru, but let me warn you, that if you survive me tomorrow it's unlikely you will survive her. Daughters are dangerous."
Such a juvenile attempt at humor, but still Sesshoumaru would entertain his guest and adversary.
"She is the daughter of my mate, who is dangerous, so I don't doubt you."
Perhaps he should have thought about his words more carefully before saying that. After the situation they were on was the result of Kagome being accused of killing the tiger daiyoukai Kain. The accusation wasn't false, but their family wasn't at liberty to admit it publically.
"And I don't doubt you," Kovu rose a glass of wine to the demon Prince before taking a drink, "it's odd isn't it? This is a final dinner for one of us, but with this good company it doesn't feel like it."
Kagome also thought Sesshoumaru's earlier reply was quite stupid due to the circumstance, and that was why he would never be fit to be a diplomat for their family.
"Never too late to call it off," she smiled at him joining him in taking a drink, "the birth of my daughter has taught me just how precious this life is. Why shed blood over rumors and your brother's doubt of your claim to succession?"
Kovu shook his head, "Due to my family's unique breeding habits, which I'm sure you all gossip about, civil wars among the ambush are a blood tragedy. Though I cannot prove that the rumors about you are true Lady Kagome it is easier to decide succession by taking on your family in one on one combat than forcing an issue that results in my brothers and sisters destroying each other."
"Affairs need to be put in order before anyone forfeits their life," Sesshoumaru didn't know how to feel about Kagome being so forward with this guest, "in the event I am the victor we have your family's word the issue will be dropped and your brother won't be at our doorstep asking for war?"
"In the event you are the victor my brother will be too thrilled with his new status to care about the affairs of the West. He never supported father participating in wars with foreign lands. Your mate and little daughter will be perfectly safe no matter what, for if I win I'll show thanks for my life by spending my days fucking and breeding in bliss."
Kovu had never done anything aggressive towards them other than issue his challenge, but his words made Kagome relive what his father attempted to do to her leaving her quite unsettled. There were too many females here she cared about present company excluded to cosign them to the fate Kain intended towards her. She recalled what Sesshoumaru told him about the white tigers, and how females were nothing to them but breeding fodder so the future generations could enjoy their incestous lifestyle.
"Could we get that in writing my Lord?" Kagome asked raising an eyebrow.
"The part about your family being left in peace, or my promise to fuck for the rest of my days? I'd sign a treaty to that, however my Lady please keep in mind that paper means nothing to demon Lords. You'd just have to accept my complete honesty towards you as a form of trust."
"I apologize if I insulted you," Kagome sighed, "just during the war I learned trust is a hard thing to come by."
"For me the hardest thing to come by during the war was a bit of civility as a man in your court took it upon himself to absorb the bodies of my brothers and cousins as well as use necromancy to take advantage of their lifeless bodies, but I am a forgiving cub. My Lady I cannot blame you for having worries and anxieties, your mate's life is on the line after all, but you have my word that after tomorrow in one way or another you will never see me again for I believe you and I being in the presence of one another does nothing more than bring up bad memories of a dark time."
It was true. Not only was his presence forcing her to relive Kain's brutality towards her, but she also had to remember that she was temporarily, by her own free will, betrothed to a hanyou that used blood shed to his advantage. All she could hope was that this cub was telling the truth and the days of maniacal figures manipulating her and her family in order to profit off of bloodshed were over.
"Father in the event I am the one to die tomorrow I would like you to name Reimei as your heiress to Dragonsbane and all your territories in the East," Sesshoumaru wanted to cease anymore conversation between his adversary and mate, "I apologize to Kovu for discussing our personal family politics when we are to be entertaining, but I haven't had a chance to get a word in with you since my decision was made. Tradition dictates it should be a male in charge of our vast lands, but I believe my daughter under her mother's guidance would be a proper fit."
Inutashio recalled what he promised Inukimi regarding InuYasha's status, "If you wish for the girl to be an heiress than she shall be an heiress, but there is no need to discuss succession this evening. I don't plan on dying anytime soon my son, so Dragonsbane will remain in capable hands."
Perhaps Inutashio should have told Sesshoumaru the truth, which was if InuYasha returned from his mysterious mission the hanyou would be named as his heir meaning in the event Sesshoumaru died InuYasha would be first in line to inherit Dragonsbane. With that knowledge Sesshoumaru would be sure to win probably not wanting to imagine a world where InuYasha ruled over the household. Then again the demon Lord was forced to feel a small bit of dread. He had no idea what his youngest was getting himself into, and if Sesshoumaru was unsuccessful he could be left with no sons to inherit anything.
"Family politics," Kovu chuckled, "your family minus InuYasha is all at this table while my immediate family ranges in the hundreds. I doubt succession is too difficult to understand."
Inutashio and Kovu then went into a discussion about how the tiger's clan was faring during their civil war cease fire giving Kagome time to breathe as she held Sesshoumaru's hand tightly under the table.
"I won't lose Kagome," Sesshoumaru whispered in her ear, "it's not fair to anyone here including Kovu to be forced to discuss our mortality. Still you kept strong and continue to make your mate proud."
"Stop complimenting me so damn much," Kagome growled her tone telling him she was not in the mood for any of this.
"Fine then I will no longer engage you with compliments," Sesshoumaru snapped back.
Tonight was not the night for a fight. He could die tomorrow, and if he did he would leave this world still not knowing how one was to handle Kagome. If he spoke to her with as few words as possible as he was always tempted to do he'd get scalded for being 'disinterested', but if he spoke with her plainly in an attempt to let her know his feelings for her he'd still be scalded. Could he really die without having the final word in this constant verbal game of chess with her?
"Kovu is right," Kagome sighed, "I don't know if he is the same as his father, but his presence here is just bringing back bad memories. His father, Naraku, and the fear of losing you. It's like a bad case of deja vu, and last time we were in a setting like this it was right before you got injured."
Sesshoumaru's grasp on her hand only tightened, "Last time we were in a setting like this and father was having a boring conversation with a tiger was when I realized I was a damn fool for letting you deny me all those years ago. I will not die Kagome. Our story isn't over yet. Be strong, and if not for me for our child."
"You're getting good at always knowing just what to say aren't you? I barely remember the old Sesshoumaru who only spoke a few words, and usually those words were used as a weapon to remind me I belonged to you."
Sesshoumaru growled, "You haven't joined me in bed as a proper mate since long before our pup was born and it honestly makes me quite frustrated, so when I win you will be seeing the 'old Sesshoumaru' in our bed probably more often than you'd like."
"I'd take that Sesshoumaru gladly or any Sesshoumaru for that matter as long as he is alive," Kagome remembered something, "do you still have that good luck charm I gave you? Maybe you can burn it for your magical moon god or whatever that Lady Luna woman preaches about for extra luck. That thing was worthless. It didn't protect your arm."
"I didn't lose my life now did I, but I agree that it is worthless. I don't believe in luck Kagome, but yes I still have it. Not because of any powers you think it has, but because it's a piece of you."
Aimee was sitting close enough to hear the whole conversation between the two. If this dinner had taken place mere days ago she'd join them in their worry, but now that she saw the power of the moon and believed Lady Luna's word she had no doubt her brother would put an end to that tiger no problem.
The Luna Room was always quite hot during the day, because someone thought a glass ceiling absorbing all the heat of the sun was a great idea. Luna despised the sun for how dare anything shine brighter than the beautiful moon. Why did her foolish grand son decide to duel in the morning versus a battle in the moonlight where his strength could possibly be increased? Oh well. It did not matter as long as Amethyst's ceremony went well and the moon accepted their offering. Many things would get accomplished today, however, other than just saving Sesshoumaru. Amethyst would finally become a child of the moon and depending on how well she did during the ceremony her actions would be an indication of whether or not she was the savior.
Luna needed her to be the one. She still refused to believe Reimei, a child born of an artificial demon that was an insult to her beliefs, could possibly be the messiah they were waiting for. Also if Amethyst indeed was the one then Luna could take comfort in knowing the pains she put Inukimi through when she allowed Radormaru to force himself on her was all worth it as it was all apart of the divine plan.
"We don't feel guilt," Luna reminded herself with a growl trying to block that day from her memory, "we don't feel love. Those feelings must wait until salvation is achieved, and once my family is saved forgiveness will come easy."
The room smelled of sage as Luna had been burning incense. Not only would it cleanse the room for their ceremony, but the scent would cover up anything that could cause suspicion if Inukimi was lurking around and decided to interfere. Luckily almost everyone in Dragonsbane was gathered in the courtyard where the battle would be taking place, so Luna wasn't worried.
When Aimee walked in wearing an all white yukata as she was advised to do so she witnessed Lady Luna removing some kind of ceremonial dagger from an ornate box. The hilt of the dagger was all silver adorned with dark sapphires.
"You're not going to cut me with that are you?" Aimee growled ready to get this over with so she could have another taste of that power as well as insure her brother remained alive and well.
"No my dear child," Luna chuckled placing the blade down before lighting candles that circled them throughout the room, "no harm will come to you, but there will be blood."
"Hence the white silk," Aimee sighed looking at her sleeve, "shame to ruin such fine silk."
"Your brother is in danger of losing his life Lady Amethyst, so silk is the least of our worries, but you are correct the white stained with blood is to remind us of the sacrifices we make to the moon. Is everyone in the courtyard?"
"Yes. Everyone except the pups and their caretakers."
"Excellent. I'm sorry your ceremony will not be as grand as Inukimi's was when she was first blessed by the moon, but this room is quite fitting despite the damn sun casting glare everywhere."
"Whatever gets this done and over with is fine for me."
"Then let us begin."
Once the candles were lit and the smell of sage was almost unbearable Luna picked up the ceremonial blade and held it above her head, "Majestic moon we call upon you this day despite the sun ringing false trying to outshine the love and protection you've blessed us with. This humble servant that spreads your word and majesty calls upon you to accept the offering of a new servant, a child blessed with your sigil by birth. She will now be prepared to serve you eternally."
Similar to how she did yesterday with her claws Luna cut herself with the dagger and used her own blood to trace the moon on Aimee's forehead, "Amethyst is her name and now that she has been adorned with my blood and your love she will present you an offering in the form of a sacrifice. We are unworthy to ask so much of you when you've already given us so many gifts, but this sacrifice will be one that will please you as it will not be an easy one for Amethyst to make. Upon the receiving of the blood that will be spilled this day please bless this child with your strength as well as keep her brother Sesshoumaru safe from harm this day. He does not worship you, but once he feels your love he will be swayed otherwise."
Luna then took a piece of silver hair out of her ceremonial box. It'd been carefully stolen from one of Sesshoumaru's silks and would be necessary to use so the moon knew exactly who it was to protect.
"Exactly what am I sacrificing Lady Luna?" Aimee asked beginning to feel a bit uneasy as she watched the woman burn a single hair in one of the candles.
"Quiet," Luna hissed, "you are a fellow servant now you do not get to interrupt."
Once the hair was burnt Luna took the dagger and placed it in Aimee's hands, "Now that we have made our request you will receive your payment. Lady Amethyst please call for the human girl known as Rin."
Blood. Sacrifice. Rin. Aimee wasn't stupid, and quickly threw the dagger down disgusted at what she almost got herself into.
"There will be none of that you crazy bitch-"
"I said silence," Luna spoke low but still composed as she put a finger to her forehead causing her own crescent moon birthmark to glow.
Aimee's mouth did indeed shut as her own crescent moon marking began to glow. She couldn't feel her own body anymore. Everything was numb and she couldn't move or talk. The feeling was hard to describe, but it was as though she were a prisoner in her own body.
"Moon I apologize for this insult as Lady Amethyst does not wish to make the sacrifice willingly, but our request remains in the same. In exchange for blessing her and keeping Sesshoumaru safe we will sacrifice the human grand child of Lord Inutashio as well as Lady Amethyst's free will as she is but a servant now. Now Amethyst call for the girl."
Aimee nodded as she went into the hallway and called out to one of the caretakers asking that Rin come to her. The whole time she was screaming on the inside wanting to gain control over her own voice to demand this moon bitch be killed as well as use her own body to find Rin and protect her, but she couldn't do anything. The same power she used to run through the moonlight last night was now being used against her; crushing her soul bending her body to its will.
When Rin was told to go to the Luna Room to see Amethyst the girl was confused. She didn't understand why she was being confined to the castle when she could have possibly been a help to Sesshoumaru out in the courtyard, and she also didn't know why her father's mate was here instead of with the others. Still she did as told and went into the smelly room that the moon demon woman had been dwelling in.
"What is it Aimee?" Rin asked her adoptive mother as Luna shut the door behind her.
No! Aimee kept screaming on the inside, but on the outside she still remained silent as she picked up the dagger before holding it above her head plunging it into InuYasha's daughter. She had no control over her actions, but she felt the girl's warm blood stain her white yukata.
Once the deed was done Luna simply smiled before exiting the room. It was time to go to the courtyard with the others to witness the moon make good on its promise and insure Sesshoumaru the victory, but still there was a lingering disappointment. She'd been hoping once she placed blood upon Amethyst's marking during the ceremony the savior would automatically learn of her mission and not need to be controlled to make a worthy sacrifice. Amethyst was not the one that promised.
In the courtyard Kagome was pleased to see that Kovu had only invited one guest to witness the battle, which was his sister. Perhaps Kovu was actually true to his word and there would be no threats from the white tiger clan when this battle was over, but since this could be the last time she saw her mate and father of her child alive no amount of hope could stop the dread building within her.
"It will all be over soon," Sesshoumaru told his mate as he sharpened his Tokijin with a stone, "no matter what happens a burden will soon be off your shoulders."
"You mean the burden of fear or the burden of having you as my mate?" Kagome asked crossing her arms.
Sesshoumaru growled at her, "Just remember what I told you. I'm going into this battle for my own selfish reasons and my pride, so if I do fall you are not allowed to feel any guilt over it. You did all you could for me. Despite me not being able to ever defeat Akuma and losing to my father I am a lot stronger than I was before this challenge was issued."
"You will beat your father one day. You're going to live Sesshoumaru."
"If I do not this is good-bye. The Tensagia is not to be used on me Kagome."
"You will live," she told him as she used his shoulders to pull herself up and get some height as she kissed his lips, "I know that because we are awful at good-byes."
He could hear her voice cracking. She better not cry. She could cry for him when he was dead. Not now. He wouldn't let his last memories of his mate being her betraying herself and appearing weak in front of a cur such as Kovu.
"Just remember Kagome," Sesshoumaru put on a smug tone she would hate knowing that would stop any tears, "when I win you're not allowed to deny me in bed anymore. What kind of a mate allows her male to risk his life without a proper show of affection?"
"The kind of mate that went through a lot of pain to birth your child," Kagome growled, "just get out there and win already."
It would be over soon, and Kagome wasn't expected to watch, but she would. During the war she'd never been allowed to be by his side during battle, so this was the closest she could come to showing him she'd always be there for him no matter what.
Not interested in a lengthy good-bye Sesshoumaru stepped onto the tiled arena floor staring down Kovu who'd come to this battle armed only a curved scythe like blade. Tigers weren't known for using weapons, so he doubted he'd have much to fear from that silly piece of steel. Still Sesshoumaru knew he had to be on constant guard as there was no room for error. He didn't like being put in a position where he could potentially leave his mate alone in the world and his child fatherless, but the feeling of facing his own morality gave him a thrill, so he'd come into this showing no negative emotion on his face.
"I wish you luck Lord Sesshoumaru," Kovu spoke in a nervous yet honorable tone.
"I don't believe in luck."
With that the battle began. Kagome stood next to Kyra, who held her hand tightly as their eyes tried to follow the fast pace battle. Kovu's weapon was indeed no threat as Sesshoumaru used a whip made from his own energy to remove it from the cub's hand, but when Kovu charged at him it was clear the tiger could hit hard forcing Sesshoumaru to the ground leaving cracks in the stone floor. Still the taiyoukai held onto his sword knowing if he could just keep hold of his weapon he would always have a chance to tilt things in his favor.
Luna was displeased by the whole display. Something was wrong. The battle should have been over already moments after it began. That girl's blood should have been more than enough for the moon to bless Sesshoumaru and increase his powers, but yet he seemed to be struggling. How could that be? She'd been serving the moon for centuries and never once did it fail to deliver after a blood sacrifice. Did the moon wish not to assist Sesshoumaru? Being a non-believer wasn't enough to ward off its protection. There was only one way a child of the moon could become immune to its power.
"Inukimi," Luna hissed in her daughter's ear shot since she was standing right behind the Lady Mother.
"Don't dishonor my family with your presence," Inukimi growled in a low whisper watching her son use his mokomoko to force Kovu to the other side of the arena to gain some distance, "not at a time like this."
"I held a ceremony," Luna didn't care if anyone could hear them or not, "I burned Sesshoumaru's hair so the moon would bless him, but still he is fighting on his own merit. There is only one way his soul could be so dark it cannot be helped. Did you allow your own soon to cross over into the Dark Room?"
"Mother are you implying I would put my own child in the dark room?" Inukimi asked still not turning around, "Oh. I guess I did. My mate did tell me my son is still mad about that."
Luna almost lost her composure as rage overtook her, "You know a child of the moon crossing over into that dimension is forbidden Inukimi! You've damned him! You've damned his soul. No one can save him now."
Inukimi smiled, "Sounds like I protected him, which is something a good mother should always do Luna."
Inukimi tried to focus on her son's battle right now, but it seemed despite losing her heart and sanity her subconscious knew the difference between right and wrong. All this time she thought constantly threatening her son with the dark room dimension of the medio stone was a side effect of her madness, but perhaps there was a reason for it. No dark moon based blood magic would ever have an effect on him. She didn't wish to see her son in this silly battle, but she knew he would be displeased if he won due to magical interference. Her son would win on his own merit and be stronger for it.
Kovu had delivered another heavy charge upon Sesshoumaru slamming him into the ground again and was above him fangs bared ready to go for the fatal strike. Only thing stopping him was the Tokijin was between them being used push him back, but with only one arm Sesshoumaru would only be able to force him back for so long.
Sesshoumaru's eyes were turning red as the adrenaline was coursing through his veins, but he had to take a breathe and keep control. If they both fell victim to their demonic urges to just claw at each other until one was dead he would most likely lose. Using the power of the Tokijin he used a demonic aura to push to Kovu back as he regained footing paying no attention to the blood he was losing from the wound the tiger had given him on his right side during their struggle.
The taiyoukai roared as he used his mokomoko to wrap around Kovu's throat and pull the cub to him. It seemed allowing the tiger to have some distance before charging forward just wasn't working, so Sesshoumaru needed to end this now. Finally he made the decision to drop the Tokijin as free hand glew green calling forth toxic miasma, which he used to pierce right into Kovu's throat. If there was any chance the tiger would survive his throat would dissolve as he choked on poison.
Sesshoumaru closed his eyes listening to the flesh burning and the pained whimpers from the tiger before dropping his lifeless body to the ground and falling on his knees feeling the pain from his wound. Once it was obvious he was the victor there was a cheer from all family members as Kagome ran to his side.
The joy in her heart that all of this was finally over and they could live in peace was too overwhelming to process at the moment, so she just whipped out her Yugia blade and quickly healed Sesshoumaru's wound. While he healed and regained his strength she couldn't help but feel bad for Kovu's sister on the other side of the arena who looked absolutely crushed by the result.
Sesshoumaru's mate whispered something into his ear. Something that he was ready to dismiss as pure stupidity, but then she explained herself it made sense. With a nod the taiyoukai got to his feet and went over to his belongings that lay on the ground next to his father and unsheathed the Tensagia before returning to Kovu's body. Using its powers he saved Kovu from the pull of hell and watched as the tiger's wounds healed and he was back on his feet.
"I lost," Kovu growled in disbelief that he was still here, "you killed me, and now you restore me? Why? If I'd won and that magic was used on you it would have started a war."
"You can thank my mate," Sesshoumaru growled turning around, "she would have honored the result of this battle and left me dead, but can see no reason to leave your sister- many sisters and daughters without a brother and father. Still the result remains the same. You have lost and my mate's innocence was protected."
He doubted Kagome requested he do this over any guilt regarding Kain's death and knew it to be a strategic move. With both brothers that were head of the white tiger clan alive there was a possibility their civil war would continue, and if it did it meant they'd leave the dogs alone for a great while.
"Who are you to deny your mate I suppose," Kovu growled still feeling ashamed that he lost, "I guess I will thank you then Lady Kagome. A demoness of mercy I shall call you. I will still honor my promise. Our kind will no longer be a threat to your family."
"And ours will no longer be a threat to yours," Kagome spoke confidently with a smile, "let us leave each other in peace in Kovu. The war was a dark time and I wish for the memories of that time to finally be buried."
Was that it then? It was finally over and they could all move on with their lives? Kagome believed it, but everything was shattered when they could hear a scream from the castle. Aimee's scream. Something was wrong.
"What is this!" Sesshoumaru growled at Kovu thinking that their battle might have been a distraction for some kind of ambush from his family.
"It has nothing to do with me!" Kovu coughed, "I don't smell anything or any of my family."
No this had nothing to do with the tigers. Inukimi knew that. She quickly turned around with eyes of rage ready to confront her mother, but had discovered that Lady Luna fled before the battle concluded.
"Leave the kitten alone!" Inukimi snapped at her son, "Sesshoumaru go to your sister, and Kagome please go to your daughter. Protect her and yourself. I warned all of you that you invited a monster under our roof and the time to battle them has come."
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AN: While proof reading this chapter I imagine it won't be the most exciting read hearing Luna go on and on with her prayers and beliefs, but this character is the result of binge watching many documentaries on cults, and that's how those cult leaders behave. Talking in circles constantly leaving you in a state of 'whaa' before the manipulation comes.