It's been quite a while so I won't hold you up. I'm powering through writer's block with all my stories to update them. Now that I've graduated and gotten a job, I've set a writing schedule so the wait won't be as long. On with the story!

Princess of the Eastern Lands

Chapter 25

Rin stretched out on the floor of Sesshoumaru's study with a sheet of paper and crayon in hand. She laid it out in from of her and began to draw. The young girl kicked her feet up, swaying them back and forth. Sesshoumaru slid his eyes over his young ward. Her feet stuck the wooden floor with a steady beat. Ordinarily the kicks would never be cause for irritation, but today the sounds blistered Sesshoumaru's ears.

"Rin."

The kicks stopped. Rin cocked her head the side and smiled at Sesshoumaru, "What is it, Daddy?"

"Would you not prefer to play outside or in your room?" Sesshoumaru asked evenly.

Rin shook her head. "There's no one to play with…it's lonely now."

Rin sighed and lifted herself off the floor. She walked to Sesshoumaru's desk and watched him write. She sighed again. Sesshoumaru stopped writing, eyeing the young girl for a moment.

"What is it?"

"Do you think Kagome and Shippo arrived safely? It's already been over a month."

"I'm confident they are well, Rin. Do not worry yourself."

"I am worried about them, though. Kagome promised she would write as soon as she returned," Rin remarked with a pout, "I miss them. Do you miss them too, Daddy?"

"That's enough Rin. I have too much to attend to so I cannot spend my time thinking on them."

Rin watched him intently and bit her lip. She'd never been one to argue with her father figure, but he wasn't being truthful and she knew it. Sesshoumaru had been different since Shippo and Kagome left. Many probably didn't notice, but Rin did. He didn't speak as much, a new level of silence for him. He would stare ahead in a certain train of thought, not unlike daydreaming. Most obviously, everything seemed to annoy him, even Rin. She tried to ignore the slight glares he would send every time she was too loud, but it still hurt a little.

"Sorry. I think I will play in my room," Rin murmured.

Sesshoumaru looked up at Rin and his eyes softened. Her black dog ears flattened as she picked up her unfinished picture quietly. The dog prince let out his own small sigh, almost inaudible.

"Rin, when I am finished here, we can eat in the gardens or perhaps I will tell you a story."

Rin turned back with a toothy grin, all signs of sadness erased. "I would like both those things very much!"

Sesshoumaru stood and walked from his desk to the young half-demon.

"Very well, we can do both." He gave a slight smile and scratched her furry ears lightly, delighting in her giggle. He sniffed the air, brow furrowed.

'What is he doing here?'

Suddenly the door burst open with two demons busting in. Sesshoumaru blocked Rin from the flying debris and shards of wood. Rin peeked out from Sesshoumaru's pant leg and grinned.

"Uncle Inuyasha, what are you doing here?" Rin asked.

Inuyasha had grabbed the other man, Koga by his armor, intent on hitting him when his adoptive niece drew his attention. He eyed her curiously, shifting to Sesshoumaru for answers and then back to Rin.

"Um, I know it's been a while, but when did you get your arm back and wasn't Rin a human the last time I saw her?"

Rin beamed, "Kagome recovered Daddy's arm and now I'm part demon. I even have dog ears just like you!" She wiggled the ears for emphasis.

Sesshoumaru growled lowly, calling attention to him. "Much has happened as of late that needs to be discussed with you, brother. The more pressing issue is why have you two come, destroying my study nonetheless?"

Koga scoffed, making his way over to some sake Sesshoumaru had yet to pour for himself. He poured a little and gulped it down. Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed. He had no qualms with Koga. In fact, in certain occasions, he'd be so inclined to call the wolf a friend. However, he would not tolerate someone disrespecting him in his home, especially not in front of Rin.

"Rin, finish your work in your room while I speak to Inuyasha."

"Will you still read to me and have lunch in the garden?" Rin inquired.

"After, once these matters are resolved," Sesshoumaru confirmed.

Rin beamed, practically bouncing out the study to her room. Sesshoumaru focused his attention back on the two people in his study. His eyes narrowed.

"Now what do you want Inuyasha?"

Inuyasha nearly shivered at the cold tone of his older brother. "A lot of stuff in going on. Kagome is alive and-"

Sesshoumaru cut him off, "I'm aware of her return. She is in the Eastern Lands now. If that's all, you can leave."

"She came back and she's already declaring war!" Koga barked out.

Sesshoumaru's eyes widened and he frowned, "Explain."

Inuyasha sat on the floor with a huff. Koga continued.

"Apparently, as soon as she came back from wherever she's been, she called out Naraku and Kagura for all that they've done in the Southern and Northern lands. She really riled up the people in the Eastern Lands."

Sesshoumaru's brow furrowed and his frown deepened, "What does that girl intend to do? How did you hear of this news?"

"Myoga was in the crowd. Apparently, Father instructed him to follow the king back to the Eastern Lands and observe Kagome. Not too long after the two arrived, Yasahiro called a banquet to reintroduce Kagome. It seemed pretty hush hush he said," Inuyasha spoke.

Sesshoumaru digested the information, rubbing his temples lightly. Inuyasha stood and motioned to the door.

"Myoga actually said a little more, but I wanted to tell you somewhere…more private."

Inuyasha and Koga exchanged a look. "I'll go talk to Inutaisho. It's been a while. Then I'll catch up with you later, Muttface," Koga quipped.

Inuyasha growled, clenching his fist, "Care to say that again you mangy wolf? How about I wipe that smirk off you ugly face?"

Koga waved him off, stepping through the door, "Yeah, yeah whatever. Anyway take your time, and Sesshoumaru, we'll catch up too. I'm interested to know how you regained your arm."

In an instant, he was gone with only a gust of wind and shattered shards of wood in its place.

"Let's move this conversation to my room, if it is to be private."

Inuyasha followed his brother to his bedroom. Sesshoumaru sat back in his chair. He motioned for Inuyasha to continue. Instead Myoga appeared from Inuyasha's sleeve, bowing to the Princes.

"What is your flea doing here?" Sesshoumaru inquired.

"Wonderful to see you as always, Prince Sesshoumaru. As Master Inuyasha has stated, I have been doing some reconnaissance work in the Eastern Lands for your father. I've been updated on the last few months you've had with the princess. I know you consider her a friend, but I question her in her current state."

"What are you speaking of? The girl makes rash decisions, but is no imminent threat to the Eastern Lands."

Myoga shook his head and bounced onto Sesshoumaru's desk, "Kagome may not be but I cannot say the same for her teacher."

Sesshoumaru's eyebrow raised slightly, the only indication of his confusion. Myoga reached for a pen and a spare piece of paper. He continued speaking as he began to write some strange phrases on the paper.

"There was a woman Kagome was consulting, a dark miko by the name of Tsubaki. She was not out when the princess addressed her people, but she was always in the princess's living quarters. Have you heard of this woman?"

Sesshoumaru growled, recognizing the name. Inuyasha watched the two confused. He already heard the story, but had been away from home too long to piece together the clues.

"Kagome said that woman betrayed her. More importantly she said, she didn't even know of the miko's whereabouts," Sesshoumaru responded.

Myoga nodded vigorously, "True Prince Sesshoumaru, all true. Here is where is gets a little messy, but long story short, Tsubaki found out I was spying. She confronted me and learned I was sent by your father and…she wants to meet you."

"You aren't making sense, Myoga. What does that witch want with me?" Sesshoumaru seethed.

Myoga shrunk back. "It all happened rather fast. The two women were talking, more like strategizing. There are rumors that Naraku has mobilized an army to fight. The two were discussing a possible attack to take down that army without too many casualties. They were arguing about some risk. Kagome left the room. That's when Tsubaki found me."

Inuyasha shook his head, "I've been gone too long. I didn't know it was so crazy around here. What does that Tsubaki girl want with Sesshoumaru?"

Myoga motioned for the paper he'd written down the strange words. Sesshoumaru walked over and picked up the paper. His eyes trailed over the paper before lying it down.

"What's all this supposed to be, Myoga?" the older prince inquired.

"That's supposedly the phrase to call Tsubaki to you. When she discovered I was called on by the Western Lands, she told me she wanted to speak to you. However, she was weary on meeting you in person."

"Smart woman. I wouldn't hesitate to kill her. Why even risk me learning of her whereabouts?" Sesshoumaru pressed.

"She said she needed your help. I also don't believe Kagome knows she has reached out to you."

Sesshoumaru ran his fingers over the paper. "Well then let's see what this witch has to say. However, I won't be as careless as Kagome. Bring Kaede in to examine this text."

Kaede read over the writing. "This is a transference spell. With this spell, she can appear in spirit."

Sesshoumaru raised his brow, "What does all that mean?"

"Her physical form remains in the Eastern Lands, but she can speak and appear before ye here."

"Can she attack in this form?" Inuyasha asked.

"I can't say for certain, but that is not the purpose of this spell," Kaede answered.

Sesshoumaru nodded. "Wait outside my door. I want to meet her in private. Myoga stay behind and alert my father if anything goes awry."

The group dispersed and Sesshoumaru uttered the phrase given to him. The air in the room picked up and a figure began to form in front of the prince. After a few seconds, Sesshoumaru could make out details of the being. Slender fingers stretched and arched, long white hair began to settle against her frame. When the form fully materialized, a pair of ruby lips twisted in a smile.

"Prince Sesshoumaru, I presume?" Tsubaki uttered.

"Correct, what's your purpose, Tsubaki?"

Tsubaki laughed lightly, sashaying to the foot of Sesshoumaru's bed, "Well I suppose I shouldn't expect a welcome. Despite what you believe I want to help you."

Sesshoumaru seethed, "Why should I believe you?"

"Because I want to help Kagome. I can't without you," Tsubaki admitted softly.

For a moment the two didn't speak, sizing the other up. Finally Sesshoumaru continued.

"Is it true that Kagome has declared war on Naraku?"

Tsubaki rolled her eyes, "Is that what that stupid flea told you? He's being overdramatic. She only spoke to the nobles after Lord Yasahiro's council refused to help."

Sesshoumaru's lips lifted in an almost smile at the demoness's antics, "Why don't you explain yourself then? From the beginning Tsubaki."

"First, Kagome conjured me with your priestess Kaede's advice," Tsubaki spat.

If Sesshoumaru had any knowledge of Kaede's actions, he didn't show it. Begrudgingly Tsubaki continued.

"I explained myself to her and I've tried to help. It's been difficult for her, going back to the Eastern Lands. She did tell her father's council of Naraku's transgressions. She wants him brought to justice, but her council wouldn't back her. Shortly after, some of the villages in the area were massacred."

Sesshoumaru's eyes widened. He hadn't heard of any disturbances and wondered if his father had heard anything. "Do you think the two events are related?"

Tsubaki nodded, "I do and Kagome certainly thinks so. While on a run, Kagome came across a village where most of her soldiers had been housed. They were all dead. Lord Yasahiro is now scrambling to build up his troops."

Sesshoumaru ran her fingers through his hair, frustrated, "What do you want with me? These are issues that should be handled by Yasahiro."

Tsubaki frowned and the aura of the entire room darkened. Sesshoumaru placed his hand on the hilt of his sword cautiously. Tsubaki eyed the sword before tempering herself.

"You and I both know that isn't possible. Besides she's already been attacked. That's why I chose to contact you."

Sesshoumaru stiffened. She should have been safe within the confines of her kingdom. "Who hurt her? Was it Naraku's doing?"

Tsubaki sighed, "It wasn't him at least not directly. His Saimyosho are littered in the East now. It's hard to know who is a foe."

"Who's to say you aren't a foe? Just because Kagome trusts you doesn't mean I must."

Tsubaki pulled aside the top of her kimono. Her skin was deeply bruised, purple in color and shriveled.

"She ripped my heart out for betraying her. She doesn't trust me; she controls me. She doesn't trust anyone."

There was a rough knock at the door.

"Yo, Sesshoumaru! Are you alright in there?" Koga asked.

"Koga, come in," Sesshoumaru responded.

Koga strutted in the other demon's room with Inuyasha in tow.

"Great I guess I have to reexplain," huffed the demoness.

"Cool it, we already heard everything," Inuyasha retorted.

Koga folded his arms in contemplation. "Tsubaki, was it? Did you know what you're asking? I mean if you're coming in secret, that means Kagome's own people aren't supporting her. I've already fought in a war without the East's help and it cost me my comrades."

"Kagome isn't like her father," Sesshoumaru chimed in.

"Still, she's been gone for years and now that she's upset, I'm supposed to rally behind her?" Koga countered.

Myoga moved from his hiding spot on the desk and hopped on Inuyasha's shoulder.

"I understand your hesitation, Koga. I do think the structure of the Eastern Lands needs to be a factor though. Abandoning them could mean the loss of an ally."

"They are not my allies!" spat the wolf demon.

Myoga yelped, hiding behind Inuyasha's neck. Sesshoumaru rubbed his temples wearily. Tsubaki's form wavered a moment.

"The spell is wearing off. You must make this decision yourself, but realize if Naraku gets his hands on all of the jewel, we'll all suffer."

With those parting words, Tsubaki vanished. Inuyasha sat on the bed and groaned.

"This is a shit show. Sesshoumaru, couldn't you tell your girlfriend to just go back home quietly?"

"Shut up, you idiot," Sesshoumaru bit back, "Now you two need to make a choice."

Koga scoffed, "So I guess you already made yours."

The older prince nodded, "Myoga is right. The Eastern Lands is our only main ally aside from a few nobles. We can't afford to alienate them. I'm no fool. We need to navigate this carefully so I'm going to see her…as a friend."

Inuyasha shook his head, "Ugh, it's weird to think of you having friends. Well I'll go too. We aren't technically taking sides or nothing. Besides if Naraku does try something, it'll give me the perfect opportunity to test my skills."

The brother looked at Koga waiting for his response. He growled, "What else do I have to lose? I've already lost my kingdom. Maybe meeting this girl won't hurt."

Myoga jumped, "Excellent! I'll alert the king of all I've learned and-.

"No."

The three demons turned to Sesshoumaru.

"Leave Father out of this for the moment. The goal is to involve the least amount of people. Understood?"

The men nodded in agreement. Sesshoumaru left to announce his departure to Rin. Inuyasha released a breath and grinned at Koga.

"What are you smiling about, Dog Breath?"

"I'm just thinking how crazy this day's been. Ya know, if this all works out, you could be Lord Wolf Cub"

Ignoring the name, Koga thought about it and smiled too. "Maybe, either way you were right. This is a shit show."

All done with this chapter! In the next few chapters I want to drive into Kagome's feeling of failure or self doubt since she's returned home. I'll be introducing Sango into the story and another villain, but I'm not sure who just yet. Anyway let me know your thoughts! Thanks for reading!