Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; this is only a fanfic.
Authors Notes: Hi everyone! I apologize for the delay in posting. I left for on wonderful holiday and returned to total chaos, but I won't bore you with the details. However, if you find this chapter lacking, I was unable to give it the full attention it deserved. I anticipated a longer chapter, but I just could not make you guys wait any longer for me to work out the kinks. That would have taken another week and I just could not do that.
Thank you all for reviewing and a special to my anon's: dsavage – I hope I sort of answered your question, Z.M. – I'm glad you noticed that particular scene, wingless angel and peace. Welcome… Venttianne, Kanamelover, joyrid3 and David Windsor, I appreciate your comments.
Part II
To put the world in order, we must first put the nation in order. To put the nation in order, we must put the family in order. To put the family in order, we must cultivate our personal life; and to cultivate our personal life, we must set our hearts right.
Chapter 28: Ceasefire
Looking up into the clear blue sky, Kikyou knew that winter was not far away. The ground of the Westernlands was littered with fallen leaves and projected the coopery tones of fall.
Dressed in a white keso and deep violet hakamas, the Lady of the West, accompanied by Pyuuma, moved out into the gardens. Rin and Idzuna had headed down to the lake to pick a few of the remaining flowers and Juun had decided to join them. The boy had finally healed aided by the healing waters, but the scar was permanent.
"You should be resting, Pyuuma-san," Kikyou informed her chaperone. "You have been up since dawn."
"I am not tired, my lady," the lioness laughed. "I find that I have a lot of energy these days."
"I understand, but you must not overexert yourself." Kikyou stopped next to a bush and lowered her basket. "I had a lot of energy with Awasumaru during the day; however, it waned considerably by nightfall and I was able to sleep soundly."
"That is true," Pyuuma smiled. "I am so busy during the day that by the time Mouko arrives home, I am exhausted."
"Which is why I was suggesting a rest," Kikyou said knowingly. "You will have a bit of energy left to spend time with your mate."
"Ah… I see," the lioness blushed, finally understanding. Looking down on the human woman as she picked herbs, Pyuuma marveled at how she could look so delicate yet be so strong.
Kikyou's hair was pulled back in a ponytail and the hem of her hakamas was smudged with dirt. By appearances, she did not look like a lady of her station. However, as soon as she spoke or moved, one knew differently.
By spending time with her here in the Westernlands, Pyuuma's admiration for the human had grown. How Kikyou had managed so many years without knowing where she stood with Sesshomaru and to have bared his child alone, to her, seemed unbearable. It made her appreciate the closeness she shared with Mouko even more.
"Our relationship is different, Pyuuma-san." Kikyou fathomed the lioness thoughts and continued to collect her herbs. "There is no need for pity," the ex-miko continued. "What Sesshomaru and I share is somewhat… unique. You may not understand our ways… nor sometimes do we, but I appreciate your concern."
"No… Lady Kikyou," Pyuuma hastened to reassure her. "Never pity… I only wondered…"
"It is not our nature to openly display our affection, but…" Kikyou interrupted, stilled her hands and turned to the half demon at her side. "… I am happy, Pyuuma-san."
The lioness could only smile. She guessed someone as staid as Sesshomaru deserved to be loved too and who better than Kikyou. Awasumaru was more than happy that his parents were finally together; therefore, who was she to judge?
Suddenly, both women stilled as they keyed into a strong aura. This was no minor demon approaching, but one of the daiyoukai caliber. Rising to her feet, Kikyou turned in time to see the children running towards them.
"Kikyou-sama!" Rin yelled. Idzuna and Juun must have sensed the arrival of their unannounced guest. As the children reached them, Kikyou and Pyuuma looked up to see a figure descending into their midst.
Landing gracefully, Lady OniYuri surveyed the faces in front of her. She saw two women, a younger human girl and two children, one human, the other a demon.
"Well now," the daiyoukai sniffed. "Who would have imagined; humans residing in the Westernlands. You have accomplished quite a feat, young woman." Lady OniYuri turned and raised an arched brow to the disheveled woman in the violet hakamas. "Lady Kikyou; is it?"
Kikyou returned the woman's stare, also raising a haughty brow to match that of her guest. The woman was beautiful with her flowing mane of silver and black hair. Her green eyes, a few shades darker than her sea green kimono were wide and intelligent. Tucked into the emerald green obi at her waist, was a sword with a golden hilt.
"Yes… it is, but it seems you have the advantage," the ex-miko said impassively, wishing she had brought her yumi.
Mouko was in the underground chambers; however, Pyuuma had her spear, but in her condition and with the children around Kikyou did not want things to escalate.
Moving forward, the Lady of the West addressed the daiyoukai. "May I ask who you are and what your business is here?"
xXxXx
Sparks flew from the blades as the Tokijin and Tessaiga clashed. Inuyasha snarled; Sesshomaru smirked as they came together in a furious whirl of demonic energy. A gust of wind exploded through the forest and the fallen leaves scattered in the wake of the youkai brother's battle.
Inuyasha fell back, as the air pressure from the tip of the Tokijin ripped through his keso. "Damn!" thought the hanyou. After all this time, Sesshomaru was not lacking in skills. His brother still moved with the elegant, effortless grace that he had reluctantly come to admire.
Blocking an overhead strike, Inuyasha attempted to force his brother back with the weight of the Tessaiga. Gripping the hilt in both hands, the hanyou twisted his wrists and thrust the blade upward. He sliced into thin air, of course, but gave a cocky, self-satisfied grin at seeing wisps of silver hair float to the ground.
"What's the matter, Sesshomaru?" Inuyasha leered and could not resist a taunt. "Gettin' old or somethin'? Seems you're a bit slower than ya' used to be or… maybe I'm just a bit faster?"
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow and, in a flash, disappeared. "Only your mouth, little brother," the taiyoukai's voice echoed in the air. Suddenly, he appeared behind Inuyasha and slashed downward with his sword.
Sensing his brother's presence, the hanyou sprang back and barely avoided the gleaming blade. With another leap, he jumped out of range and grimaced at feeling his hair fall loose about his shoulders.
Inuyasha now wore his hair in one long thick braid down his back. Since living in Kagome's time, the hanyou had refused to cut his silver locks to fit the more traditional mode of his mate's time.
On that side of the well, he maintained his human form. Inuyasha's hair was as dark as Kagome's and his golden eyes were a charcoal gray. Each month, during the rise of the new moon, he reverted to his demon form. It was the reverse of being here in the Warring States era. However, he was also able to change when drawing the Tessaiga.
"That is better," Sesshomaru said with satisfaction and raised his sword, prepared to attack again. "Now… you look more like your old self. The only thing missing is the 'Robe of the Fire Rat'." The taiyoukai's lips curled back in a sneer. "Father's parting gift to his half demon offspring."
The Inu no Taisho, Inuyasha knew, would always be the center of their dispute. Any guilt the hanyou felt about the rift between full-fledged father and son youkai, was wasted on his older brother. Sesshomaru neither wanted nor needed his pity.
"If ya' got issues with the old man, take it up with him" Inuyasha spat and also raised his sword, "I ain't got no problem helping ya' join 'em." Although he said the words, the hanyou did not mean them, but animosity was the brothers only form of communication.
"Oh yeah… speaking of old times," the hanyou continued on a sinister note and attacked again. "What the hell did ya' do with the Shikon no Tama?"
"Why do ask?" Sesshomaru smirked and deflected a blow from the Tessaiga. "As Naraku is dead, what further use is Shikon jewel to you? Unless…" the taiyoukai began thoughtfully, "… unless you are still trying to become a full-fledged demon."
"Hah!" Inuyasha spat. "You wish! I don't need to become a full demon. I'm powerful enough now," he said smugly, brandishing the Tessaiga.
"Is that so?" Sesshomaru haughtily lifted an eyebrow. Had his brother finally accepted his hanyou status? Although he was still cocky, he now exuded a newfound confidence. "Powerful enough to defeat me, little brother?"
"That's right!" Inuyasha's eyes gleamed at the challenge. "I see ya' got your arm back," he added mockingly. If the hanyou expected a display of anger from his older brother at the mention his once missing appendage, he was disappointed.
Sesshomaru's face was impassive as he lowered his sword. Inuyasha had indeed hit a nerve; however, there was something more important here. Keying into Awasumaru's aura, the taiyoukai saw that his son stood off to the side and looked on in confusion. Inuyasha had yet to detect the boy's presence and there was something that needed to be done before that occurred.
"Come," Sesshomaru invited, raised his arm and beckoned his brother forward. "Let us put your abilities to the test; shall we?" Relaxing his stance, the taiyoukai lowered and then sheathed his sword.
"What the hell?" Inuyasha looked shocked and then spat angrily, "What are ya' playin' at, Sesshomaru? Draw your sword, damn it!"
"With your meager display of skills, I doubt you are worth the trouble," the taiyoukai said coldly.
"Bastard!" Inuyasha flew hot and his hands gripped the hilt of his sword tight. Suddenly, he composed himself. That was what Sesshomaru wanted… he wanted him to get angry, loose control and charge mindlessly. Settling down, the hanyou raised the Tessaiga and took up a stance. "Alright… but, it's your funeral!"
With lightening speed, Inuyasha shot from the ground and lunged towards Sesshomaru. As he bore down on his brother, he noticed the smirk on the taiyoukai's lips. With a smirk of his own, the hanyou drew back and then thrust forward with his sword.
Suddenly, Sesshomaru disappeared. Noticing the tree in front of him, Inuyasha gasped and veered his sword to the side to avoid damaging the precious bark. Landing on his feet, he let out a sigh of relief and then scanned the area for his brother.
"Interesting," Sesshomaru stepped from behind the large tree that Inuyasha's blade had barely managed to avoid. Looking around the clearing at the other trees demolished from their battle, the taiyoukai turned curious eyes on his brother. "You had no concerns about wasting any other foliage in the area, I wonder…" the taiyoukai paused for effect, "… what is so special about this one?"
Inuyasha was silent, but his eyes spoke volumes. At the hanyou's dogged silence, Sesshomaru continued.
"Could this possibly be the tree where you were sealed by a human priestess; the same tree where you slept for over fifty years?" He stared pointedly at his little brother and placed his hand against the smooth wood. "This was your prison for half a century. I wonder that you do not have the urge to destroy it," Sesshomaru stated.
"Shut up!" Inuyasha growled suddenly.
"The Goshinboku" - also called the 'Tree of Ages'," Sesshomaru persisted, ignoring his brother's rising ire. "Tell me, Inuyasha, is it the memory of the one that awakened you that has you hesitate or… the one that sentenced you to that eternal slumber?"
xXxXx
Regardless of her appearance, OniYuri was impressed with Kikyou. The human's mannerism indicated a true lady of the manor; she was even impervious to the daiyoukai's penetrating gaze that had quelled many youkai over the centuries.
"I am OniYuri, a longtime friend of Sesshomaru's" the daiyoukai sniffed. "Once word was received that there was a new Lady of the West as well as a new heir, quite naturally, one would come to welcome you. Pray…" she continued with a smirk, "… do not tell me I am the first of the well-wishers."
"You are," Kikyou said simply and then remembered her manners. "This is Pyuuma-san, of the Southernlands." She nodded in the direction of the lioness who gave a slight bow, but eyed the daiyoukai warily.
"From the Southernlands, you say?" OniYuri pursed her lips and noticed that the one called Pyuuma tensed instantly. She was not a full-fledged youkai and bore no identifying markings of her clan. "Are you, by chance, familiar with the nobility of that area… the late Mateisouka's family?"
"I am acquainted with the family," Pyuuma said quietly.
"Really?" OniYuri raised a disbelieving brow and gave the lioness the once over. Scanning the hanyou from head to toe, taking in her bare feet, short skirt and the spear strapped to her back. Dismissing her, the daiyoukai's gaze slid back to the new Lady of the West.
"Your mate is overly protective, Lady Kikyou," OniYuri said. "In his absence he provides you with a personal bodyguard. I must say, in all the time I have known Sesshomaru, I have never known him to cherish anything."
"It appears you do not know him as well as you thought," Kikyou countered. "Lady Pyuuma is not my bodyguard, but a friend." The human held her ground against the daiyoukai. "As you are a guest here, Lady OniYuri, I would ask that you act according to a youkai befitting your station. Your insults, no matter how subtle, will not be tolerated."
"My… what a pretty speech, my lady," the daiyoukai actually smiled, undaunted by the human's reprimand. "It is clear that giving birth to an heir has its advantages!"
Kikyou simply smirked at the intended snub; however, before she could respond, a pregnant Pyuuma had heard enough.
"How dare you!" the lioness exploded, swiftly withdrew her spear and moved to stand in front of Kikyou. "You have no right to say such things! You know nothing of this woman or her son!" Pyuuma spat.
"Lady Kikyou cares nothing for Sesshomaru's title or status. Their son is normal and happy, even before knowing the Westernlands was his heritage," she continued and seemed to have OniYuri's full attention.
With her pregnancy and heightened progesterone levels, Pyuuma was in a fury. OniYuri had insinuated that Kikyou had used Awasumaru as a way to procure her status as Lady of the West. The lioness, personally, found this offensive as she recalled her childhood in the Southernlands.
How many years had she lived with her father, Mateisouka, yet he had never called her daughter? Only Raion, and later Shishi, had acknowledged her as their sister. To the others, she was the orphan of the household. Some had suspected that she was the lord's child, but none would say so openly.
Now… she carried a child that would not be a full-fledged youkai, it was of was of noble birth from both clans, but would never be acknowledged as such.
"Some children have no need for such things as titles," Pyuuma continued her personal rant. "Being raised in a noble household has its advantages, but all are meaningless without a parents love."
During the exchange, Kikyou watched OniYuri closely awaiting her attack. The daiyoukai eyes had narrowed as she listened to Pyuuma's tirade and the ex-miko subtly began gathering the powers of the 'Hama no Reiryouko' in her palms. Suddenly, her eyes widened to see OniYuri's eyes soften and a flicker of recognition registered in her mind. Extinguishing her powers, she placed a hand to Pyuuma's shoulder.
"Calm yourself, Pyuuma-chan," Kikyou said quietly. "This is not healthy."
Standing as tall as her petite stature would allow, the lioness topaz gaze held OniYuri's. In a commanding tone, she addressed the daiyoukai. "You should leave… now!" she stated and then remembered this was not her place. "Do you not agree, Lady Kikyou?"
"That may not be in our best interest," Kikyou said and everyone turned to her in surprise.
xXxXx
The first tremor hit him as he left the underground cavern. What began as mere annoyance quickly escalated into intense anger and Mouko literally flew up the stairs to reach his mate.
Pyuuma's anger bordered on hysteria and the tiger knew she was recalling her childhood and her father. As he reached the main floor of the castle, he felt the lioness attempt to reign in her emotions and calm herself.
Awareness kicked in and sensing the aura presence of another youkai, Mouko turned in the direction of the gardens. Rounding the corner that led to the back of the manor, the tiger stopped short at the sight before him.
Rin stood behind his and Sesshomaru's mate, holding Idzuna and Juun close to her side. Kikyou stood slightly behind Pyuuma with a comforting hand to her shoulder. His mate, however, stood tall in front of the others, holding her spear upright and confronting the youkai that had invaded their space.
Sensing his aura, the daiyoukai turned in his direction and her eyes assessed him coolly before turning back to Kikyou and Pyuuma. With a sigh, Mouko dragged a hand through his orange and black mane and moved towards the chaos.
Approaching his mate, Mouko gently removed the spear from Pyuuma's hand, lodged it into the ground and his eyes sent a silent message to Kikyou. Understanding, the ex-miko nodded, turned to gather the children and then ushered them into the house.
Turning to face the daiyoukai, Mouko placed one hand on the hilt of the kodachis at his waist and, to Pyuuma's surprise, fell to one knee with his head bent in front of Lady OniYuri.
Lifting his head, the tiger looked up into jade orbs similar to his own and whispered, "Welcome… mother."
xXxXx
Inuyasha was unprepared for the question his brother presented him. The query had the hanyou's thoughts reeling into the past. Unconsciously, he lowered the Tessaiga to the ground as he looked up at the tall branches above him. It was here… in this very forest that he had his first confrontation with Kikyou…
"Hey, you!" the hanyou barked. "You're the one called Kikyou; right?"
The priestess turned to the summons.
"I hear this 'Sacred Jewel' you got is a mysterious crystal that increases the power of a demon," Inuyasha sneered at the miko.
As she turned to face him fully, the hanyou noticed she was even prettier than he originally thought. The night before, he had encountered the woman after her battle with a horde of demons. She was passed out cold, soaking wet from the rain and her face was smudged with dirt.
This morning, the miko's attire was neat and pristine. Her hair was tied back in a low ponytail with a white ribbon, but it was her eyes that caught his attention. Large and dark, framed by long lashes, they appeared listless and her expression was one of boredom.
The woman's brows drew together in a frown and she began in a toneless voice. "I remember now," she said, recognizing his voice. "You were the one hiding the shadows the other night."
So, she did remember that night. In his human form, Inuyasha had stayed out of sight of the full-blooded youkai attacking the village. Perched high in a tree, he did not come out until he saw a human priestess collapse to the ground. Had he known then that she possessed an object that could turn him into a full demon, he would have…
"Shaddup!" the hanyou snapped, not completing his thought. "Just hand over that 'Sacred Jewel'!" Inuyasha had no problem killing demons; they were usually after his blood anyway. However, he questioned if he could kill a simple human just so he could obtain the jewel… and a woman at that?
Before he allowed his conscious to get the better of him, the hanyou lunged at the woman. Suddenly, he felt myself thrown back and pinned to the nearest tree. Inuyasha now hung, suspended from the wood's surface by the miko's arrows.
"I understand now," the one called Kikyou said. "I thought I sensed a different aura from you. You are… a mere half-demon."
Surprise held him still as he witnessed her abilities; however, her words incensed him. The hanyou's struggles to free himself were in vain; the miko's arrows held firm.
"With the powers of the 'Sacred Jewel' you could become a full-fledged demon," the miko continued and her eyes narrowed. "Would you go that far to find your place in the world, hanyou? Do you believe that is true power?"
"Argh! I told ya' to shaddup!" Inuyasha growled. "Just you wait… I'll become the strongest demon around! And… when I do…" he stopped struggling and threatened menacingly, "… I'm gonna put you out of your misery!"
"Hmph!" the woman sniffed. Turning her back to him, she continued in a calm voice. "Take my word for it, that is never going to happen as long as I purify the jewel and protectthe jewel."
"Don't make me laugh! You reek with the smell of demon blood," the hanyou taunted and saw her stiffen. Still pinned to the tree, Inuyasha smirked as he had finally put a crack in the woman's composure. "What's the matter? Did I hit a nerve, eh, Kikyou?"
Her demeanor remained the same, but the eyes that turned on the hanyou were luminous and glittered with something akin to anger. "You had better stay away from me if you do not want to be killed," she warned. "You will not get another chance."
"Hah! I ain't givin' up that easily!" Inuyasha laughed as the miko sedately walked away. "Go ahead and run, ya' won't get away from me! With that bloody demon stench clingin' to ya', I'll find ya' quickly enough!"
Returning to the present, Inuyasha gripped the sword tighter as he recalled his bitter words then. Each time he had tried to confiscate the jewel from Kikyou, he was unsuccessful. The priestess had proved as formidable as her reputation. They clashed often, as he refused to give up and she refused to kill him. The hanyou found that while his desire for the Shikon no Tama had lessened, it had only grown for its protector.
"Pondering my question, little brother, or reminiscing?"
Sesshomaru's query had Inuyasha lifting his head and glaring daggers at him. "Quit with the 'little brother' crap!" the hanyou snapped. "Besides… when did you start givin' a damn about me?"
"Do not flatter yourself," the taiyoukai sniffed. "I only asked a question; one, I might add, you seem quite reluctant to answer." The golden orbs of the taiyoukai and the hanyou clashed as Sesshomaru withdrew his sword.
"Is it the woman from the past or the one from the future that binds you to this tree, Inuyasha?" he asked and watched his brother's eyes widened.
The Tokijin began to glow and the hanyou read the taiyoukai's intentions. "Hey! What are ya' doin'?" Inuyasha snarled.
"You will answer…" Sesshomaru said with dead calm, "… or I will obliterate this thing that you hold so dear… along with your precious memories."
xXxXx
"Fierce, loyal, she has a backbone and what a temper. I like her already."
That was OniYuri's thought as she looked down on the petite lioness in front of her. It was a sure bet that Mouko had been attracted to those human traits now on display. The half-demon had all but bared her fangs as she delivered the daiyoukai a tongue-lashing that would rival one of her own.
Pyuuma… her son's chosen mate and Mateisouka's love child from a human woman. Although of pedigree lineage, she was still a hanyou. The late General Moushou, Mouko's father, must be turning over in his grave.
Over the centuries, OniYuri had refereed many disputes between father and son. Moushou was strong in his beliefs, as was Mouko. Once they set their minds on an issue, it was near impossible to change their way of thinking.
Mouko's desire to aid the humans in the first known demon uprising was the beginning of the rift between father and son. Moushou had scoffed at his son's ideas, stating the young tiger's only desire was for the affections of a human priestess.
OniYuri sighed as she remembered how her son had simply smiled at the accusation and confessed his feelings for Midoriko.
Moushou grew livid with rage on hearing his son openly admit such an atrocity. In his anger the senior tiger banned his son from the Tora Domain, his family and from his sight until he came to his senses. OniYuri reasoned and pleaded, but her mate would not be dissuaded.
Of course, Mouko did not come to his senses. Banished from his homeland, their son joined a youkai brigade formed by an undisclosed elite group of the higher ups. The group was designed to protect the humans from the ronin youkai terrorizing local villages.
During Mouko's service, he pursued the human priestess relentlessly, but Midoriko refused him over and over again. They were comrades and nothing more; duty came first with the priestess and it always would, but the young tiger in love would not give up.
It was discovered sometime later that a large horde of demons had planned a solitary attack on the priestess. Midoriko was becoming much too powerful. The woman had appeared at the youkai council to speak on behalf of humans. Under the protection of the Inu no Taisho, she was the first non-demon to grace its halls. Someone had also forged a sword for the priestess, one with the ability to kill youkai.
The youkai brigade had trouble accessing information; they did not know when the attack would take place or where. Mouko had raced to Midoriko's aid, but was unable to locate her. In frustration he turned to Sesshomaru's father for assistance.
The Inu no Taisho called in Daija from Stealth Operations. If there was any information on the priestess whereabouts, the snake youkai would uncover it. By the time the location of the raid was revealed, it was too late. Midoriko and her neko youkai companion had battled the demons in a cave only a few miles from her village. The battle had raged for seven days and seven nights and the two had fought valiantly, but in the end, the human priestess had lost her life.
Mouko had been inconsolable. After a month of grieving, he had set out to find the snake's lair. He wanted to know where the delayed information had come from. The tiger was surprised to discover that his teammate, Jadoku, was Daija's son and the one that had gathered the data. Through the snake's resources, it was revealed that Mouko's own father had had knowledge of the attack.
Enraged, the tiger had returned to his homeland and confronted the youkai he had once called father. To OniYuri's surprise, Moushou had admitted to withholding the information. It saddened her to know that her mate's animosity for humans had aided in the young woman's death.
A full-scale battle was surely inevitable between father and son with neither prepared to back down. Before things could escalate, OniYuri did the only thing she could. Seemingly unaware of their dispute, the Lady of the Tora Domain escorted her three cubs in the midst of the quarrel, forcing both youkai to cease all hostilities in the presence of the children.
Relaxing his stance, Mouko had turned, kissed his mother and embraced his sisters. His green eyes flashed fire as he had headed for the door and vowed never to grace the halls of his homeland again. To this day and even after the death of his father, her son had yet to return.
Lady OniYuri was hoping to change that today. An unexpected visit had revealed that not only had her son chosen a mate, but they were also with child. Although she withheld in front of the messenger, OniYuri's heart swelled at the thought of her first grandchild. Looking down on the lioness in all her fury, she recalled her discussion with Sesshomaru…
Taking a seat behind the massive desk in her study, OniYuri eyed the Lord of the West and wondered why he was here. Through resources, the daiyoukai had heard that Mouko was now in allegiance with Sesshomaru and both had been appointed seats on the council. Although she had kept track of her son's progress, the news the taiyoukai delivered came as a surprise.
"I will speak with you regarding your son and my comrade," Sesshomaru began. "Mouko-san is now a member of the council serving under the command of Lord Kaguma."
"If that is all you have come to tell me, then you have wasted both our time," OniYuri sniffed. "I am well aware of my son's activities."
"I see," Sesshomaru sniffed in return. "Then I assume you are also aware that he has chosen a mate and she will soon bear his child."
OniYuri stood so swiftly, the air of the projectile scattered the documents from the desk and had them rolling to the floor. "What… what did you just say," the daiyoukai tiger hissed.
"Need I repeat that?" Sesshomaru smirked. "Your hearing is just as keen as mine."
"You will mind your tongue, youngster!" OniYuri slammed her fist into the desktop. "Your mother would be appalled at your manners," she sneered and saw a flicker of emotion in the taiyoukai's eyes before he masked it. So… for all his coldness, Sesshomaru's mother's absence was still an issue with the boy.
Returning to the main topic, OniYuri pressed, "Now tell me, who is she… this mate my son has chosen? From where does she hail… who is her family?"
"Does it matter?" Sesshomaru asked. "After all, what would it change?"
Jade orbs flashed and collided with cool amber. With a sigh, OniYuri relaxed and resumed her seat. "Nothing," she said testily. "Information received; I will act immediately." Waving him away, the daiyoukai added, "You may go, Sesshomaru."
"If I may be so bold as to advise you, Lady OniYuri," Sesshomaru continued, declining her invitation to leave.
"Advise me?" The daiyoukai raised an eyebrow at that. "What advice could you possibly offer that would be of use to me?" she replied haughtily.
"If you would cease talking, I will tell you."
Kikyou's sudden movement forced OniYuri from her musings. She watched the Lady of the West place a calming hand to the shoulder of her new daughter-in-law. Sesshomaru was right; this Pyuuma was a spitfire.
It was on the taiyoukai's advice that she had approached the women in this manner. OniYuri was instructed to launch her verbal attack on Kikyou as she was rational and slower to rise to bait than Pyuuma.
"My mate is Kikyou; the woman is a 'human pillar of fortitude'."
Although said with his usual stoicism, OniYuri detected a hint of pride in its deliverance as he spoke of the new Lady of the West.
"You should leave," Pyuuma's voice shook with suppressed anger and emphasized, " …now!" After bristling initially, the daiyoukai's gaze held a hint of amusement as she stared down on the lioness. "Do you not agree, Lady Kikyou?" The half-demon added as if just now realizing she was not the lady of the manor.
"That… may not be in our best interest." OniYuri heard Kikyou say. As their eyes met, the daiyoukai realized she had been found out. As Sesshomaru predicted, his mate had discovered her identity.
Suddenly, a strong, familiar aura enveloped OniYuri. From the corner of her eye, she saw her son round the corner of the manor. The boy was in full battle mode as he rushed to protect his mate. Mother and son's green eyes met briefly, before OniYuri turned back to face Pyuuma's angry topaz gaze.
Sensing her son approach, the daiyoukai watched as he disarmed his mate and sent a silent message to Kikyou. The woman collected the children and entered their abode, leaving the remaining three youkai outside.
OniYuri remained silent as Mouko turned to her. The daiyoukai's heart warmed to see her son again and watched him bow at her feet. She had the strongest urge to kneel and wrap her arms around him.
The last time she had set eyes on him was the day she had delivered the 'Kenshinko kodachis'. It was not well known, but the weapon was really part of the white tiger clan's legacy; formed from OniYuri's father's fang, the greatest of all white tiger youkai – Byakko.
Mouko had no intentions of taking the weapon, believing it belonged to his father; his pride would not allow it. However, once OniYuri told him otherwise, he was more than willing to accept the legacy of his maternal parent.
"Use the 'Kenshinko kodachi's' wisely and to protect the ones you love. Only draw them for a worthy opponent."
Those were her last words to him and although happy to see him now, OniYuri's gaze remained cold and her aristocratic demeanor never wavered. Mouko would refuse to come home, just as he did after his father's death. As Sesshomaru had said, it would take more than the offer to get the tiger again take up permanent residence in the Tora Domain.
A frown appeared on the daiyoukai's brow as she looked haughtily down on her eldest child's bent head and heard him welcome her. Although Mouko's personality was jovial, he could be as stubborn as his father. However, OniYuri was determined that he, Pyuuma and her grandchild would return with her. If Sesshomaru's plan did not work, she would find another way. Quelling the maternal emotions raging through her, OniYuri met Mouko's warm gaze.
"Welcome, mother?" the daiyoukia spat. "After all this time, is that all you have to say to me?"
Mouko's eyes widened at the coldness in his mother's voice. "But… Haha-ue, I…"
The tiger was interrupted as OniYuri's open palm connected with his cheek, the sound of the slap resounding in the garden.
"Mouko-kun!" Pyuuma gasped, kneeled next to her mate and tried to cup his face in her hands. The tiger captured her trembling fingers in his and rose slowly, pulling the lioness up with him.
"Why did you come, mother?" Mouko asked and smiled as he shook off the sting of her slap and the ringing in his ears.
"This is no social call," OniYuri sneered. "Mouko - son and heir of General Moushou. I challenge you to a duel for your birthright and the sole proprietorship of the Tora Domain!"
xXxXx
"You touch that tree and you're dead!" Inuyasha snarled in a low menacing voice.
Sesshomaru smirked and lifted the Tokijin, clearly intending to strike.
"Damn it!" Inuyasha gasped. Whatever release he used would not reach the tree in time to deflect the blast from his brother's weapon. "Alright… alright! I'll answer!" the hanyou conceded and commenced to mumbling obscenities.
Sesshomaru slowly lowered his arm, but the Tokijin's light never dimmed. The taiyoukai thought it best to keep his brother on guard and to prove that he meant what he said.
"Well…" Sesshomaru pressed.
Inuyasha's orbs had darkened to the deepest amber as he glared at his nemesis. What was so important that his brother would go to such lengths hear his answer? What the hell was going on in Sesshomaru's head?
"Both!" Inuyasha said suddenly with bared fangs. "It's the memory of both that still binds me." The admission was forced from him.
"Is that so," Sesshomaru said in a bored tone. "I can understand the wench from the future, but the other puzzles me."
"You were very protective of the woman," the taiyoukai continued. "I recall you accused me of not saving her on Mt. Hakurei after her altercation with Naraku. I cannot understand the reason you maintain ties to this woman when you are bound to another."
"Keh!" Inuyasha sniffed and added sarcastically, "You wouldn't."
As Sesshomaru's words sank in, the hanyou turned wide eyes back to his brother. "How do ya' know about Kagome and me?" he asked. "It's been over seven years since we've seen each other… not since we finished off Naraku. You keepin' tabs on me or somethin' and what the hell did ya' do with the Shikon no Tama?"
Standing completely still, Sesshomaru returned Inuyasha's stare. Although the answer to his query was not fully explained, the taiyoukai already knew the answer.
During his visit to the 'Sphere of Reflections', Sesshomaru had seen the tragedy that had befallen Kikyou and Inuyasha. He had witnessed how Naraku had manipulated their feelings, resulting in Inuyasha's sealing and Kikyou's initial death. Once his brother discovered she had been revived, the taiyoukai saw him struggle with his new feelings for Kagome and the old from his first love.
Sesshomaru had also viewed Kikyou's conflicting emotions once realizing she had not been betrayed by Inuyasha. He had watched his mate overcome her animosity for the reincarnation that now held the hanyou's heart and redirect it towards her efforts to kill Naraku.
However, that was the past and it no longer mattered. He was only here because of Totousai's words. If Inuyasha would protect a tree that symbolized a connection between him and Kikyou, then he would surely protect a child that was a part of her.
Watching Inuyasha, Sesshomaru knew his brother was focused solely on him. The taiyoukai had heightened his demonic aura in order to cloak Awasumaru's. His brother was oblivious to the child standing a short distance behind him.
"You gonna answer me or what?"
Inuyasha's voice released Sesshomaru from his musings.
"Your question?" The taiyoukai inquired with a raised brow.
"You heard me!" the hanyou yelled. "What the hell happened to the Shikon no Tama?"
"You are quite insistent that I have possession of it, Inuyasha," Sesshomaru murmured and then asked. "Why is that?"
"The day we killed Naraku," his brother began. "You lopped off his head while his body disintegrated and then took off with the jewel. Don't deny it!" Inuyasha barked before his brother could speak. "Kagome saw you. Now… what did you do with the jewel?" he shouted.
"I returned it to the priestess," Sesshomaru said smoothly.
"Liar!" the hanyou snapped and brandished the Tessaiga. "We saw Kikyou three days later and Kagome couldn't detect the jewel. She didn't have it."
"What makes you so sure I have it?"
Inuaysha's amber gaze clouded over and his lips twitched in irritation. "How'd ya' get your arm back?" he asked quietly. "Only the power of the jewel could do that."
"I applaud you, little brother." Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed. "You managed to figure that out all by yourself. You are not as stupid as you look."
"Oh yeah… and you're not as clever as you think," Inuyasha smirked. "I want the jewel, Sesshomaru; I want it now."
"That is too bad; I do not plan to relinquish it just yet." Sesshomaru watched his brother's eyes widen. "As I told you, Inuyasha, I returned the jewel to the priestess after killing Naraku. However, a few days later, the woman and I crossed paths again and she gave me the Shikon no Tama."
"No way!" Inuyasha bristled instantly. "Kikyou would never do that! She would never hand over the jewel to the likes of you!" he spat. "She spent her life protectin' it… she died protectin' it!" Suddenly, the hanyou stopped talking. Various images flashed in his mind as he stared at his brother.
"I swear, Sesshomaru…" Inuyasha voice lowered to a venomous growl. "… I swear, if you… if you hurt her, I'll… I'll…"
"You'll what?" Sesshomaru sneered and the Tokijin began to glow in earnest. "The woman is no longer your concern. You made your choice, Inuyasha; you chose the wench from the future and her world, remember."
"That's right!" The hanyou growled a response. "I made my choice and I don't regret it," he spat, as he thought about his pregnant mate back in the modern era. Kagome was due any day now, her condition preventing her from accompanying him on his visit to Kaede and the Slayers Village.
"After Naraku was destroyed, me and Kagome kept comin' back to search for the jewel and for…" Inuyasha faltered as he thought of the first person he had allowed himself to care about. Grimacing at the memory of her sacrifices, he continued. "Kagome understands; I won't allow the jewel to be used for evil again and when we find Kikyou, I will protect her."
"Hmph!" Sesshomaru smirked and his eyes turned the deepest shade of amber. "The woman no longer needs your protection," he said stoically.
The hanyou's eyes narrowed at his brother's words and then grew wide as he contemplated its meaning. "You… you didn't," Inuyasha gasped, misunderstanding. "Damn you, Sesshomaru! I'm gonna…"
Choking on his last words and gripping the Tessaiga with both hands, the hanyou cried out in anguish as he lunged towards his brother.
Neatly sidestepping the mindless attack, Sesshomaru lifted the Tokijin to block Inuyasha's blade as he slashed back aiming for his ribcage.
The ground shook, the air whipped furiously and the trees bent with the force of the demonic energy and angry aura exuded. The younger brother was irrational as he attacked viscously and grew more incensed as the older brother countered with ease.
A part of Inuaysha did not want to believe that Sesshomaru could have hurt Kikyou; however, his brother had all but admitted it. Continuing to swing wildly, he wondered why Sesshomaru had suddenly had an urge to possess the Shikon no Tama and then remembered the new arm.
Once again, guilt flooded Inuyasha's senses. Had Kikyou lost her life because Sesshomaru desired his arm back… an arm that he had forcibly taken during his first full-scale battle with his brother? If that were true, then once again, he was responsible for her death.
"You're gonna pay," Inuysha said more to himself. Retreating from Sesshomaru's form, the hanyou put distance between and crouched low. The Tessaiga, held tight in his grip, pulsed and then began to transform. The energy increased and diamond shards surrounded the blade. Whipping the sword around, the shards burst forth as the hanyou yelled.
"Kon-go-soha!"
Inuyasha watched as chips of diamond studs bore down on Sesshomaru. He snarled as he saw his brother lift the Tokijin in an attempt to block his attack. He may be able to counter, but the taiyoukai could not dodge every crystallized missile coming his way; one of them was sure to hit.
"Aaahhh!"
The yell startled Inuyasha. From his peripheral vision, he saw a small body appear to his right, heading towards Sesshomaru and into the path of the 'Adamant Barrage'. The figure jumped high in the air, reached behind and pulled two swords from his back. A green light emitted from the blades as he slashed at the diamond shards.
"Tetsu-no-kaaten!!" the boy yelled.
Energy vibrated from the swords and created a barrier. The blockade held firm as the diamond shards rained down on it, shielding Sesshomaru. As soon as the last rammed into the energy wall, it pulsed once, absorbed the objects and then vanished.
The boy landed in front of Sesshomaru with the sword hilts clasped tightly in his small fist. Lifting his head, the boy turned a hostile glare on Inuyasha and the hanyou's eyes widened in shock. Even before the boy spoke, even before he flicked back his ponytail in that similar haughty gesture, Inuyasha knew this was Sesshomaru's son.
"Are you alright, chichi-ue?" The boy's eyes never left Inuyasha's as he inquired after his father's well being.
"Of course," Sesshomaru sniffed, walked to stand beside the child and then looked down on him. "Impressive defense, Awasumaru," the taiyoukai said and laid a hand on top of his son's head. "You managed to learn that in one day?"
"Yes, father, I did and thank you," the boy said excitedly and bowed to his parent, his bronze orbs shimmering with delight. His uncle was forgotten for the moment, as he beamed from his father's approval.
"Hey, kid!" Inuyasha snapped, tired of being ignored. "Go find somewhere to play or somethin'!" The hanyou jerked his head in the direction of the forest. "Me and your father got some unfinished business!" Both father and son turned at his outburst. Sesshomaru's expression was hard to read, but the boy's disapproving gaze shook him to the core.
Inuyasha watched as his brother's replica sheathed both swords in one fluid motion. The scabbards were crisscrossed over his back thus making the action difficult; however, the child made it appear so simple.
"My name is Awasumaru… not kid!" the boy said huffily.
"Why… you little…" Inuyasha grumbled the remaining obscenities under his breath. Looking over at Sesshomaru he muttered, "Teachin' him early; ain't ya'?" He should have expected nothing less from an offspring of such pompous genes. Addressing his still silent brother, the hanyou gave warning.
"I suggest you get rid of… the kid," he emphasized and sent a glare to Awasumaru. "He's got nothin' to do with this."
"He has everything to do with this." Sesshomaru presented a stoic face. "It is because of my son that I came in search of you," the taiyoukai said. "Awasumaru… this is Inuyasha, he is…"
"My uncle," the boy finished sadly.
Inuyasha's body jerked in surprise to hear himself addressed in that manner. Sesshomaru merely quirked an eyebrow at his son and said, "I was not aware that you knew Inuyasha. You have never mentioned it."
"Forgive me, chichi-ue." Awasumaru looked up at his father. "I first learned of him when we were at council. I heard the wolf demon, Kouga-san, mention him and I asked who he was, but… he said that I should ask you about him. I also asked Jaken-sama and he said the same thing," the boy continued. "I've wanted to ask you, but… well, it never seemed the right time."
"It seems my mother knows you too, Oji-san, but she never told me anything about you." Awasumaru began as he turned back to Inuyasha.
"Your mother?" the hanyou snapped and squinted to get a better look at the boy. The child did seem well mannered, thought Inuyasha, but he was just as annoying as his father was.
"I don't know what the hell you two are goin' on about, but…" Inuyasha paused and pointed the tip of the Tessaiga in the boy's direction, " … I told ya' to get outta here!" he finished.
"I won't!" Awasumaru barked and before his father could intervene the boy pressed. "I want to know why two brothers are fighting and what it has to do with my mother!"
The forest grew eerily quiet. It seemed that nothing stirred, not even a blade of grass as Inuyasha stared at the two figures before him. Sesshomaru stood at his son's side, his face a stoic mask. Awasumaru's dark eyes were defiant as they shifted between his father and uncle, demanding an answer to his query.
Inuyasha's eyes moved slowly over the boy and hated where his thoughts were headed. The child might look like Sesshomaru, but there was something else about him… something familiar. Awasumaru's eyes were darker, full of emotion and lacked the coldness of his father.
As the boy turned back to him, Inuyasha's breath caught in his throat at the mutinous expression he wore. He had been on the receiving end of that glare on many occasions. The wind stirred at that moment and an unforgettable scent wafted under his nose, seemingly to confirm what he already knew. That natural flora bouquet belonged to one person and one person alone.
"Kikyou," Inuyasha whispered and lowered the Tessaiga to the ground.
xXxXx
"No! He is not going to fight you!" Pyuuma shouted. "I forbid it!"
With a frown, OniYuri turned to the lioness at her son's side and sniffed haughtily, "Mouko… who is this woman that she is allowed to speak on your behalf?"
"Pyuuma is my mate," the tiger smiled and pulled her close to his side. "And… she is right, mother, I have no intentions of fighting you. I gave up my rights to the Tora Domain long before father passed. It is your home, not mine."
"Your mate?" OniYuri feigned surprise. "Well… I guess a mother is the last to know," she sighed, injecting enough hurt into her tone to sound convincing. "Congratulations." The commendation was brief and she averted her eyes as the couple murmured a shamefaced thanks.
"Although I appreciate your generosity of relinquishing your rights, I'm afraid it is not that simple," OniYuri continued. "It is not a mere transferring of documents, my son," she informed him. "Ours is a blood seal and the rights can only be released in the same manner."
"A blood seal?" Pyuuma gasped and turned to her mate. "But… that means… Mouko-kun, you can… you cannot do this." Turning back to OniYuri, she pleaded, "There has to be another way."
"Relax, Pyuuma-chan." The tiger covered his mate's hand with his own to comfort her. "There will be no duel. I am part of the council now, I will speak with…"
OniYuri's husky laughter cut him off and filled the air. "You foolish boy," the daiyoukai began. "This is not council business, but our own laws in the tiger realm."
"Your father may have banished you from your home, but he never withdrew your birthright," OniYuri informed her son. "In your absence, I have held guardianship over our lands in case you changed your mind; however, that time is now past. When the heritor is gone for an undetermined time, his properties are listed as abandoned. Once that occurs, anyone of the nearby realms can stake a claim."
"You have made it quite clear, Mouko, that you have no plans to return to the Tora Domain," OniYuri said. "Therefore, it is up to me to secure the lands until your sisters reach the age to mate. By challenging and defeating you, I will be well within my rights to take on any challenge to the estate."
"You worry needlessly, mother," Mouko smiled. "No fool in their right mind would challenge you." Even at her age, Lady OniYuri was a force to be reckoned with. His mother had been a prominent figure in his training and wielded the 'Seijuu no Tsurugi' at her hip with as much skill now as she had five hundred years ago.
The thought of a match with her would prove interesting, Mouko thought. The last time they had sparred together, she had beaten him soundly and he secretly wondered if he could best her now. However, that was unthinkable in this situation. In a blood match, you either outright killed your opponent or left them near dead. Pyuuma was right, there had to be another way.
"I have already been challenged," OniYuri's comment wiped the smile from Mouko's face. "Hakko, of the northern tribe has been bold enough to be the first."
"Hakko!" the tiger sneered. "He wouldn't dare!"
"Oh, but he has," OniYuri said tiredly. "I can only assume that it is his feelings for Sachiko that gives him the courage. The boy has taken a fancy to your sister her and is very attentive to her. It is obvious that she is his true goal and not the Tora Domain."
"Sachiko!" Mouko spat and the hair rose of the back of his neck. "But… but Sachiko's just a cub!" Dropping Pyuuma's hand, his brows drew together as he recalled his sisters.
Sachiko was the eldest and then there was Hiroko and Umeko, the youngest. When he had left home, they were just little wisps of orange and black fur. He was there when they took their first steps, when they stopped mewing and began speaking. He recalled his disappointment that he could not see them transform into their human shape as his mother shooed him from the room. However, he remembered how beautiful they were when they were presented to him fully clothed.
And now… some upstart had challenged his mother to a contest while trying to court his little sister. Was the youkai stupid or just begging for a thrashing? Seething inside, OniYuri's voice had Mouko raising his head.
"It has been a long time, Mouko, my son." The daiyoukai's voice had softened. "Although I agree that Sachiko is too young to mate, she is hardly a cub," she informed him and then sighed. "You need not concern yourself about Hakko. He is no match for me; unlike some others I anticipate will follow. Currently, you are my greatest challenge."
Mouko did not respond. The tiger was pensive as he considered his mother's words. "I would like to think more on this, mother, if I am allowed." He beamed a smile in her direction.
OniYuri's facade almost crumbled. The boy had his mother's charm, after all. "I will give you time," she answered stiffly, struggling to maintain her stoic ruse. Stepping back a distance, the daiyoukai's aura increased, a sphere of energy surrounded her body and lifted her into the air.
"I expect an answer in five days, Mouko, after that… I come looking for you," OniYuri warned. With a brief nod to Pyuuma, she floated away.
xXxXx
His body was numb. His arms fell slowly as the weight of the Tessaiga suddenly became too heavy to bear. Ramming the blade into the ground, Inuyasha's eyes were glued to the forest floor as he tried to suppress the emotions washing over him.
Kikyou was alive. He was happy and relieved to hear that, but as for the rest… he was not sure how he felt. Sesshomaru and Kikyou… how did it happen, when did it happen? How was Kikyou able to bear a child and… why with Sesshomaru?
As another thought occurred, the hanyou's brows creased in a frown. Maybe she had not chosen him. Could he… could Sesshomaru have forced himself on Kikyou? No… Inuyasha shook his head to clear it. With the exception of Rin, his brother abhorred any contact with humans; this did not make sense.
"Are you alright, Oji-san?"
Inuyasha's head jerked up to find Awasumaru squatting in front of him, his large bronze eyes full of concern. Standing upright, he stared stonily down on the boy as he reined in his feelings. His nephew stood also, but did not move away and Inuyasha noticed the crescent moon on the back of his hand.
"What do ya' mean, am I all right?" he snapped. "Don't I look alright?"
"No… you don't."
It was reflex that had Inuyasha raising his fist and clunking the boy on the top of the head.
"Yeow!" Awasumaru yelled and rubbed spot that was throbbing. "Hey! What was that for!"
"Keh," Inuyasha sniffed. "Watch your mouth, kid, and show some respect for adults!"
"You sure don't act like an adult," Awasumaru mumbled under his breath, still rubbing his head. Inuyasha made to take another swing, but the boy immediately sprang back and out of range, while grinning at his uncle.
"Awasumaru!"
Both half demons turned as Sesshomaru's stern voice sliced through the air.
"I would like to speak with Inuyasha alone." His tone was brusque and businesslike. "Are you able to amuse yourself until we are finished?"
"Alright, father, but can I talk with him later?"
"That depends." Sesshomaru's response was clipped.
"Oh… I see," Awasumaru sighed, turned to his uncle and bowed. "If I do not see you again, Oji-san, it was nice meeting you." With that said, he turned to head into the forest.
"Hey, ki… ah… Awasumaru!" Inuyasha called out, stopping the boy in his tracks. Reaching inside his keso, he pulled out a small satchel and tossed it to his nephew. "Over there is a village!" He pointed to the north. "Take that to the old priestess… her name is Kaede. Tell her who ya' are and tell her I'm delayed."
Awasumaru caught the satchel in his hands and then looked to his father. Sesshomaru nodded and his son smiled. Turning back to his uncle, the little half demon asked with a gleam in his eye.
"I'll take it to her if you stay here until I get back," Awasumaru bargained.
The boy's expression was so much like Kikyou's that Inuyasha begrudgingly relented. "You gotta lotta nerve, ya' little schemer," he growled and waved him away. "Go on, Awasumaru, I'll be here when ya' get back."
The boy gave smiled and with a gleeful laugh, disappeared into the forest. Inuyasha watched his retreating figure in awe and then glowered as he turned back to his brother.
"So… what do you want, Sesshomaru?" the hanyou hissed. "You here to gloat?"
"You really do not think much of me; do you, little brother?"
"Never had reason to think otherwise." Inuyasha was blunt.
"That may be true, but it is irrelevant," Sesshomaru stated and sheathed the Tokijin. "Now… let's get to the point; shall we? I require your assistance in a matter regarding Awasumaru."
Inuyasha looked up in surprise and then his eyes narrowed suspiciously. "Is this a joke?" he spat. "I ain't buyin' that, big brother," he added sarcastically. "I'm the last person you'd ask for help. So… what do ya' really want?"
Turning his back on Inuyasha, Sesshomaru faced the 'Tree of Ages'. "You and Awasumaru are the same," he began. "Half demon, half human beings; you two live an existence I will never understand. I plan to teach the boy about his demon heritage as his mother has raised him as a human; however, time is an important factor."
"According to Totousai, there will be a demon uprising sometime in the future," he continued. "It is Awasumaru's destiny to protect human lives during this insurgence and to restore order."
"Sounds like a big job for such a little kid," Inuyasha said. "Knowin' Totousai, I'm sure what he says is true. He may be old, but he ain't addle… yet."
"Why would you need my help?" Inuyasha asked. "You're his father… don't tell me you ain't gonna help your own kid fight."
"It is not my fight," Sesshomaru responded coolly. "Besides… this rebellion will take place in, what Totousai called, 'modern times'. He mentioned contraptions that will allow humans to fly and houses that reach the skies. Does that not seem familiar, Inuyasha?"
"Yeah… it does," the hanyou sighed. Sesshomaru was talking about Kagome's era. "Even then, the fighting continues, huh," he said more to himself. "What do ya' expect me to do?"
"Protect and guide Awasumaru during the rebellion," he said stiffly. "I have no doubt he will have supporters, but… they will only be his comrades."
"Comrades ain't so bad," Inuyasha stated and thought about Miroku, Sango and the others. They were more than comrades, they were friends and over time, he had learned to depend on them. However, his brother had a point. As a hanyou like his nephew, Inuyasha knew the problems that Awasumaru would face and Sesshomaru must have realized this.
Another thought occurred to Inuyasha. Could it possibly be that Sesshomaru thought he might not be around during that time? As Kikyou was human, she would not live five hundred years. Was his brother concerned that his son would be alone?
"Does Kikyou know about this?" Inuyasha asked suddenly.
"Not everything." Sesshomaru's answer was clipped.
"Well… maybe you should…"
"I do not require your advice regarding my mate." Sesshomaru turned to face his brother.
"Mate?" Inuyasha gasped and wondered if he was surprised that the two had mated or the fact that Sesshomaru owned up to mating with a human woman.
"Rest assured, Inuyasha, the woman is well and unharmed," the taiyoukai stated. "She is not beaten, manipulated or forced into submission; therefore, do not let your warped imagination run rampant," he sneered. "As I said before, the woman is no longer in need of your protection."
Now his brother's words made sense; Kikyou had all the protection she would ever need.
Sesshomaru did not rais his voice, but Inuyasha detected ominous undertones and felt he had been scorched from the words alone. He had seen his brother this intense before. The time Rin was abducted, when Naraku trespassed on their father's grave and a few other occasions where he almost showed emotion. Was it possible that Sesshomaru may actually have feelings for Kikyou?
"Take it easy," Inuyasha snapped back. "I was only makin' a suggestion."
"Anybody can tell by lookin' at your kid that he's happy. He seems protective of his mother and he looks up to his father. Can't imagine why," the hanyou added with sarcasm.
Sesshomaru shot a glare his way and Inuyasha decided it was best to change the subject. Finally sheathing the Tessaiga, he approached his brother. "I guess since the kid's gonna be my responsibility I'm gonna need to know more about this rebellion and… about my nephew as well."
To be continued…
Authors Notes: Sorry to cut it here everyone, but I'm really struggling with dialogue. I may have to extend this a little. 'Til next chapter…
