A Demon Lord's Cry

by Kagome Yuki Niwa

His howls haunted his castle and with nothing to do, his subjects call upon Kagome to subdue their lord. Rin has died and her death causes Sesshoumaru to loose himself to his beast. While subduing the Western Lord, Kagome inadvertently binds herself to the taiyoukai, making herself Lady of the West, and suffers all the perks and downsides of being human royalty in a demonic court.

19. Innocent Hands Stained With Blood

Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha.

Genre

: Romance/Angst/Hurt

Pairing

: Sesshoumaru/Kagome

Summary

: Little Rin has died and Sesshoumaru doesn't know what to do. He loses himself to his beast, lost in emotions he hasn't felt in hundreds of years. Kagome is called to subdue the raging beast and in the process binds herself to the taiyoukai stronger than her bond with Inuyasha. With Sesshoumaru's subduing comes the price of being Lady of the West and with the title comes all the downsides and perks of being ningen royalty among a youkai court.

A Demon Lord's Cry
Chapter Nineteen: Innocent Hands Stained With Blood

x . . . . x

A low growl started from Takeshi's throat and Kagome stopped him with a hand on his shoulder. If there were any a time to adopt her guise of a silly ningen girl then that would be the time. So she did as Cerdwin informed her and giggled lightly behind her hand, "I do love inu!"

With the Cardinal Ladies in one room the luncheon had begun.

Kotone offered the Western Lady a sneer and greeted the Cardinal Ladies with a nod of her head. Despite whatever faults she may have had she abided the rules of courtesy no matter the situation. It was one of the major reasons she had become Eastern Lady. She was unwaveringly cruel, did what needed to be done, but did so within the bounds of courtesy. Snorting she took a seat between the Northern and Southern Ladies and observed the little miko before her – and she was little no doubt. Ningen were so slight and squishy looking compared the lightly muscled and lean forms of youkai females. The one before her certainly was different with her cerulean hues. They could have belonged to a youkai they were so blue.

Frowning she looked at the woman and pursed her lips.

How had this plain little… girl attracted the Ice Prince of the West's attention?

The eye color was abnormal on a ningen however they could belong to any passing youkai so that certainly wasn't it however something must have made him want her.

Her lavender hues darted to the creature of shadow that bent at the ningen's side and her disgust turned to outright shock and she couldn't help but exclaim, "Takeshi?"

The inu youkai did not look up but the Western Lady with a light and petulant frown answered for him, "Kotone-sama!" she began most appalled, "To address even a guard without an honorific is most disrespectful."

The ningen woman blinked her cerulean hues rapidly looking the picture of innocent and she wanted to vomit. Who knew Sesshoumaru liked pretty, innocent, and stupid? It wasn't as surprising as she had thought considering the little girl that had once wandered through his halls. Kotone sneered and shook her head, "Takeshi-san then – why are you here?"

Kagome frowned and touched the inu youkai's cheek absentmindedly, "Oh don't worry about him! He's my guard! He is to be seen and not heard."

Kotone made her way around the table and took a seat with the other Cardinal Ladies. She observed the elaborate kimono that adorned the Western Lady's figure and almost sneered outright. Sesshoumaru did always take care of what he deemed his and she shook her head, "A lovely kimono fitting the ningen Lady of the West." Her tone dripped disdain and clearly stated that she did not mean a word she said.

Kagome's cerulean hues were wide and innocent when she spoke, "Oh this? Sesshoumaru-sama had the…" she paused as though confused before continuing slowly. "…tailors make me new kimono's. Do you really think it's pretty?"

The ryuu's nose scrunched as she murmured with detachment, "Absolutely beautiful."

The females watched as the miko ran her dainty finger tips along several of dark ringlets in her hair, "My hair though feels heavy… mou – I wish I could take it down but Himeno-san said that proper ladies don't wander with their hair down like a common harlot – "

The miko continues babbling and Kotone watched in with an amusement and partial horror at what had once been a prestigious position fall under the reign of a disgusting miko. The miko's act may have fooled the younger youkai, the ryuu that was still but a child, but she most certainly did not fool Yuzuki whom had been around for centuries and was as old as Mizuki herself. She also didn't fool the koumori whom lived isolated but was not simple. Yuzuki offered an amused smile to the young woman – after all as a kistune she was a master of deception. It was what she did best when the times grew complacent and she grew bored. Her voice was mischievous with undertone of cruelty when she stated interrupting the miko mid-babble, "I assume it was Cerdwin's tactics to play innocent and dumb, yes?"

No surprise registered on Kagome's features despite the fact she was panicking on the inside but she nodded her head once, the glaze from her eyes falling away as intelligence filled her bright hues, "Oh yes! I assume she forgot there would be a kitsune among us." She had at least hoped to play stupid for a little while longer and had not thought she would be found out so soon in the game.

The Eastern Ryuu narrowed her lavender hues and growled, "Are you stating that this was ruse?"

Kagome arched a brow and her hand fell away from Takeshi whom she had been petting during her ranting, "But of course – do you honestly believe the Western Lady would be someone so ridiculous? Have you met Sesshoumaru-sama?" she inquired the insult there but well concealed.

Kotone's fingers flexed in agitation as she inquire, "What was the purpose?"

The ningen's smile was falsely sweet when she responded, "Reactions, of course. I am not royalty – far from it – I am a miko and a child compared to the rest of the youkai that grace my own court and today those that grace my sitting room. Would you not play on the stereotype most youkai have of ningen if you were I?"

Sayuri nodded her head once before injecting, "I understand – I had done the same when I first began my reign of the South. It was when I met my mate's family. It is a wonderful tactic when one enters a situation and they are trying to gauge their surroundings and those that fill it… especially concerning in laws." The smile on her lips was slight but it brought a feminine chuckle forth from Kagome and Yuzuki.

Yuzuki then inquired, "Speaking of which I heard that Mizuki had come for a visit – is she not going to join us?"

Kagome's smile dimmed, "I'm afraid not. There was an issue with the staff at her home that required her personal attention."

Kotone responded then, "She employs ningen, correct? Risky business if you ask me!" Sayuri turned to the ryuu with wide eyes and Kotone cried out with a grin that contradicted her kind tone, "Oh! My apologies!"

Kagome frowned though internally she was amused. She had been worried for this? Yuzuki and Sayuri seemed fine but Kotone was much a spoiled child! "No offense was taken, Kotone-sama."

Unfortunately this was the beginning.

Kagome would have undoubtedly spoken too soon.

After all – if Mizuki had been worried then Kagome by principal should have been worried as well.

Especially by the gleam in older youkai's eyes.

.

Inuyasha was going to kill Kagome.

Plain and simple.

The way Kikyo was glaring at the hare was nothing short of hostile.

The hare merely watched Kikyo with light brown hues curiously, her small bunny like nose twitching madly. Her ears were pointed like his brothers however they were much longer, a little longer than his hand for sure… and floppy. They were super fucking floppy and didn't seem like they were useful but she had somehow managed to track them down with a smile on her lips and happy voice with a thick yet ridiculous accent.

She quite literally appeared in front of them, covered in dirt and waved her hand frantically in his face. She screamed his name and quickly introduced herself, "I am Onora! Kagome-sama and Akihiro-sama sent me to help you! I hear everything – and I mean'a everything." She talked quick, moved quick, and didn't seem to have a pause button and her silly little nose was always moving. "We have lotsa shard hunting! I've nay idea what that means but it is a'happening because that is whut I've been told to do!"

Inuyasha had stood stunned and literally could do nothing but stare at the pale-yellow haired woman and into her abnormally large eyes. Miroku thankfully knew what to say and queried, "Kagome-sama sent you?"

"Oh aye! Shards to hunt an' all!" her smile was sweet and Inuyasha frowned.

"What the fuck are you?" he growled.

She didn't seem to mind his rude language and responded like he had asked like a normal polite person, "A hare! I'm kinda like yer wee bunnies!"

Inuyasha twitched once and hollered, "You talk weird!"

She frowned then and her own brow twitched, "Bullocks! An' here I thought it was it was ye who talked a wee bit funny! I'm from another country called Ireland!"

She turned on her heel swiftly, obviously peeved, and Inuyasha caught sight of something that made him laugh. Connected to her rear was a small, cotton ball tail. It was so funny that Inuyasha had tears sliding along his cheeks until a swift kick to the little Inuyasha had him on the floor in pain, an angry woman above giving a fairly good growl, "Don'tcha laugh at my tail kitten-ears!"

Again… Inuyasha was going to kill Kagome.

After recovering he told the group as much.

After all, where did she get off thinking they needed help?

"Stupid woman." Inuyasha muttered as he frowned, walking off.

Sango watched the hanyou walked away in confusion, "Inuyasha – where are you going? We have to head North, remember?"

Inuyasha turned a glare to the hare whom was busy flouncing from place to place, "We're visiting Kagome and my stick in the ass brother. There is no way in hell is she staying!"

Kikyo pressed a hand to his shoulder in an attempt to calm him but Inuyasha shrugged the woman away. Her cool, gray orbs momentarily reflected hurt before it was washed away with a blink, "I agree with Inuyasha – we do not need such a creature with us. We do not even know her."

Floppy ears twitched and the hare turned with narrowed hues, "I'm nay a 'creature'! I'ma hare! An' I will be with you whether you like it or not because my captain has requested it of me and my Western Lady requires this of me."

Inuyasha made a sound of disgust, "We're still going!"

Inuyasha wouldn't say it but Kikyo knew the real reason they were going to the West.

Inuyasha missed Kagome.

She knew it in the way he no longer took comfort in her presence.

It was in the way he was constantly antsy and nervous.

It was in the bags under his eyes and the in the quick snap of his temper.

Somewhere inside of her clay body… it killed a little piece of the once miko.

.

Small talk was exchanged, barbed words hidden beneath layers and layers of compliments and Kagome felt she was doing quite well until the questions came.

"Not much is known about you, Kagome-sama other than the fact you are the Shikon Miko. From what I know the Shikon Miko travelled with Sesshoumaru's bastard, hanyou brother. Filthy creature if you ask me!" Yuzuki murmured, her ears pressed against her head in both disgust and agitation.

Kagome's hands clenched in her lap and she offered a grin, "Mizuki-sama informed me that you have a step-child correct? A hanyou from your mate's roaming lust? It no doubt must have been a blow to both your ego and your mating." Her frown and apologetic tone did not suit the anger in her eyes when she spoke to the kitsune.

Sayuri and Kotone snickered lightly to themselves and Yuzuki's tail bristled, "Surely if Sesshoumaru-sama keeps around his concubines when you are around - it must be a blow to your own ego."

Kagome's brow hitched in the air and responded loftily, "Sesshoumaru-sama can do as he pleases. If his harem keeps him entertained then he is welcome to it however if he decides he no longer would like them then it will be by his choice and not my nagging that he disbands them." The miko decided then unless she was asked directly, she would not tell the other ladies that they were not a mated pair. This was castle knowledge - and not many really knew anyway. Sesshoumaru was fairly private and kept his own affairs and council.

Knowledge was power.

Sayuri's face was a mask of indifference when she inquired, "It has been rumored you have your own gaggle of men. Is that true, Kagome-sama?"

The confusion that coated Kagome's voice was genuine when she stated, "Gaggle of men?"

The koumori nodded as she gripped a small fruit between clawed finger tips and nibbled delicately on it with her fangs. She chewed thoughtfully before responding, "A houshi, your hanyou, the guard that sits by your side, Sesshoumaru-sama, and even Akihiro-sama."

Internally Kagome was clawing at herself in confusion but nothing belayed her confusion as she smiled and shook her head, "The houshi was a travelling companion as was Inuyasha – my guard is just that, my guard and Sesshoumaru-sama is my lord. Akihiro-san is a subject and nothing more."

Kotone spoke then, lavender hues flashing, "But Takeshi-san was given to you as a gift, no? It would be such a shame if he was not used for the purposes his clan is known for."

Though Kagome had studied clan types while travelling with the group she had never dug too deep into the affairs and history of inu youkai considering one travelled with her. She had personally thought it was best to research the creatures that she didn't know anything about. Kotone bringing up what Takeshi's clan was known for was something she had not expected and she looked to the ryuu, "Takeshi-san does as he is told. I have no use for any other talents he may have acquired."

"What a pity." Yuzuki murmured. "The obsidian put out the best lovers dealing in the sex trade and whatnot. What are your thoughts on that, Kagome-sama?"

A bead of sweat slicked along the back of Kagome's neck as she thought, The sex trade? The obsidian deal in the sex trade? A deep breath was taken as she took a sip of water that had been brought prior to the beginning of the luncheon. She quickly thought about how host clubs in the future helped in the red light district. What were the positives? "Personally I have no like or dislike of the trade. It is necessary, I suppose. Brothels provide housing to both men and women. It is a safe life – somewhat secure – especially in the higher spectrum. Some are sold into it others are guided into it. It brings income to cities and it is a living."

"I find them distasteful." Sayuri muttered.

Kotone turned to the other youkai and inquired, "The brothels or the Obsidian Inu?"

"Both!" she stated looking directly at Kagome and Takeshi whom was still crouched at her side, head bowed. "A guard that comes from a clan of whores. It is a wretched thing."

Anger coursed through Kagome swiftly, "It will do you well to hold your tongue, Sayuri-sama." Her hands were clenched in her lap as she glared into the colorless eyes of the koumori, "A guard he is but he is mine and I will not tolerate disrespect."

It was silent as the three youkai exchanged glances and Yuzuki spoke a purr in her throat, "Touchy, touchy, Kagome-sama." She grinned at the miko and arched a brow, tail swishing behind her gently, "You must agree that he has risen from his clan only to fall again. As the third son there was nothing for him except the life of battle or the life of a whore. He rose from his clan to the life of a warrior – the warrior – of the Western Lands. He was a God of Battle only to become mortal once more as a common guard dog."

Takeshi tensed at Kagome's side and the miko's eyes narrowed, "I do not understand this hostility toward Takeshi-san but it will stop."

Takeshi's hand was on Kagome's shoulder in an instant however his head still remained bowed, "May I speak, Kagome-sama?" Kagome was silent for a moment but she nodded her head, "Many thanks." Takeshi looked up then and his emerald hues were swallowed by darkness and his voice was rough, "Had your mates had a grip on their lands then Sesshoumaru-sama would not have had to send myself to subdue your people many times over. More than once have the internal squabbles of the other lands spilled over the borders into the West. Your fear of me causes your snide remarks – the fear of what I am capable of. You sit there attempting to make me feel lesser then what I am by playing upon the means of income for my clan but I am not them and they are not I – I was given a different path. Say what you will but your thoughts make no difference."

When Takeshi ended there was a smile curling his lips upward that reminded Kagome oddly of Akihiro and a shiver raced along her spine. Kotone gasped and her lips curled into a sneer, "Will you allow him to speak to us that way, Kagome-sama?"

Kagome turned to her guard and then toward the other Cardinal Ladies. She nodded her head and offered a bright and cheerful smile, "Yes, yes I believe I will." The Shikon Miko turned to Takeshi then and nodded at him, "Takeshi-san? You are dismissed – report to Sesshoumaru for the remainder of the Cardinal Ladies stay."

"And now you send him away from our sharp tongues." Kotone murmured, her voice a purr.

Kagome shook her head and gaze the ryuu a quick glance, "No – I send him away for I no longer have any need of him. I have no need to protect his emotions. He is my subject and his emotions are none of my concern." Takeshi bowed his head and was gone in a flurry of shadows. His disappearance somehow made the room look brighter and Kagome turned back to the other cardinal females. "So tell me how the North fares, Yuzuki-sama. I heard it will be beautiful come Spring."

Yuzuki sipped wine and tilted her head to the side, "It fares well, I suppose. My mate believes that a silent Lady is a good Lady."

Kagome did not allow it to show on her features but she was surprised at the bitterness that lay in those words. So the Northern Lady holds some resentment toward her mate for more than one reason, Kagome thought curiously. "Truly? What a pity."

"And does Sesshoumaru-sama not require the same of you?" Sayuri inquired in that quiet voice of hers.

Kagome looked toward the koumori, "I have not been in my position for long so I am unsure." She stated evasively causing the koumori to narrow her white hues. Honestly, the more the luncheon dragged the more direct the questions became. "What of you? Not much is heard of the South."

"We manage, I suppose. It has been quite barren this year." She informed the miko with a careless wave of her hands. "Or are you referring to my standing? My mate makes his decisions and I stand beside them as I should."

The Eastern Ryuu couldn't be quiet it seemed and she had to interrupt, "My mate is just wonderful! I am allowed free reign to do as I please."

"At the cost of your people." Yuzuki growled, her eyes glinting angrily.

Kotone sniffed and looked away, "I have no idea to what you are referring!"

"The East borders the North greatly and your people traverse to our lands starving wraiths! The ningen are bringing about disease into our lands with famine hot on their tails. Is it pitiful how you gorge yourself - "

"I do not gorge."

" – while your people die of hunger!"

Kagome and Sayuri watched and the miko took note that they were critiquing each other just as she was critiquing them. They would return home to their lands and inform their mates of everything just as she would do to Sesshoumaru and right now the North and East were putting on a wonderful show.

" – dare you say a thing you wretched kitsune!"

"You have nothing on my years you little lizard!"

"This is ridiculous and you should be thankful that our trade routes - "

"Trade routes? Trade routes? You know nothing! Your mate tells you nothing! You are a figurehead with no power and no trust! You were mated because the Eastern Ryuu needed funds after that dastardly takeover of the West so many years ago!"

"My mate loves me!"

"Your mate keeps his harem close by! That is definite love, wretch. Youkai mate for political reasoning's – not love!" The kitsune ended with her sharp tongue and even sharper words while the ryuu looked on in unveiled shock.

Sayuri spoke then with a light sneer, "Mine mated me for love. I had no land and no power."

Kagome watched the squabbling continue with a look of awe on her features. They were children! It was high school all over again and she was growing sicker and sicker by the moment as each woman took shots at one another, taking joy in making on another squirm and feel lesser than they were.

" – Kagome-sama is the Shikon Miko! Surely that is power right there backing the West! It is no wonder Sesshoumaru-sama snatched her from whatever village she hails."

"Quiet, Kotone." Yuzuki hissed, dropping the young youkai's title and turning to Kagome. "Here we are airing our affairs before you while you sit back and enjoy the show."

Kagome merely smiled charmingly and shook her head, "By all means."

Sayuri turned to the miko, "Kotone-sama is right… as the Shikon Miko you no doubt have power."

Inside she panicked – this line of questioning was not welcome, "Surely you know the story. The title indicates that the Shikon was within myself upon birth. It is not a measure of my power."

"Yet as a miko, surely you are strong." Yuzuki stated and Kagome internally scowled.

The miko shrugged, "Average, of course. I did not start training until I was much older than the average apprentice. None knew I had power." Partial truth but it would do.

Kotone and Sayuri allowed the answer to satisfy them, Kotone looking smugger by the moment, while Yuzuki looked as though she wanted to press the issue. Thankfully, Kotone couldn't help but bring the topic back to her, "Well – my mate has acquired new land recently."

"Oh?" Kagome asked, eager to push the topic. "From where?"

"The Southern territories. There was a mating between a lesser lord and a ningen. The youkai obtained the ningen holdings which included a nice piece of property."

Sayuri frowned as she turned to the ryuu, "I was not aware of this."

A sleek brow arched as Kotone inquired, "A courier should have been sent to the Southern Palace several weeks ago."

The koumori shook her head, "Nothing has been received from the East for quite some time. I will check on this when I return home."

Kagome would have missed it had she turned to address the ryuu however seeing as she had she was able to catch the way the female blanched as though she had done something wrong and fear permeated her aura. Frowning Kagome though, Curious. What is she frightened of? She continued to watch closely and queried, "Are you feeling alright, Kotone-sama?"

Kotone turned to look at her and pressed a clawed hand to her forehead, "Y-you know… I am feeling somewhat lightheaded."

"Maybe we should venture outside for a moment or so." Kagome suggested.

Kotone shook her head, "No. I will be fine. Just give me a moment."

As Kotone recovered from whatever had befallen her, Yuzuki inquired to Kagome, "So how does one jump from miko to Lady of the West?"

Kagome's smile was slight when she responded, wringing her hands in her lap, "Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru-sama are half-brothers. As you well know I travelled with Inuyasha and they would occasionally run across one another. That was really all there was to it."

Sayuri gasped lightly, "Was there no long courtship?"

Kagome couldn't help but laugh even though there wasn't a mating between them, "From Sesshoumaru-sama? He is a warrior first and foremost! What warriors prolong courtships?"

"I assumed he would have to work to gain your favor." Yuzuki added in quickly.

"Of course – what man doesn't? However – he is Lord of the West. I would be a fool to not to return his favor."

Kotone rejoined the conversation and nodded, "That much is certain. It has always been 'agree or die' with Sesshoumaru-sama."

"My mate has always had a fairly relaxed countenance." Yuzuki stated after a quiet hum. "It may be his kitsune nature but I am not always so sure."

"I have not met the Cardinal Lords as of yet." Kagome stated as she grabbed a piece of bread and cheese, "I have no input until then."

"We should have a party!" Kotone quickly interjected, "We have done so much to the Eastern Citadel!"

Sayuri turned to the ryuu and shook her head, "You worry so much about appearances, Kotone-sama."

There was a quiet snarl and a narrowing of eyes as the ryuu turned to the koumori, "Your tone becomes more and more condescending as the day wares on."

Yuzuki sighed and turned to the younger of the two youkai before her, "Honestly ladies – this does not need to become a battle of words and I believe that the lunch has long since passed. I for one must return home."

Kagome turned to the kitsune, "You do not have to leave on the account of lunch being over. By all means stay as long as you would like."

Yuzuki chuckled and shook her head of pale hair, "And risk getting into another shouting match with one of these women? No thank you!"

The miko nodded and stood to bow as the East and South stood as well. She bowed to each and poked her head outside where Himeno stood waiting, "Himeno-san, would you escort the ladies out?"

Himeno bowed lowly and softly stated, "Yes, Kagome-sama."

Her smile was slight when she returned back to the room, "It was a pleasure having you here today and I do hope we can get together again soon."

Yuzuki stepped forward first and inclined her head to the Western Lady – her smile somewhat fierce as she responded, "It has been eventful – until next time, Kagome-sama."

The kitsune stepped from the room and Sayuri took her place with her lips pursed into what Kagome found was her usual mask of indifference, "The meal was delicious as was expected."

Kagome inclined her head to the koumori and Kotone stepped forward and her features were set with thinly veiled disdain for all that Kagome was, "The invitation was much appreciated."

As the last Cardinal Lady stepped from the room Kagome waited until they were out of hearing distance before murmuring, "Takeshi."

The shadows returned to the room as Takeshi materialized before her and she looked up at his form. His lips were set into a smirk as she sighed, "And how did it go?"

Kagome scoffed as she glared, "Like you don't know. I could feel you hovering from my shadow. Take me to Sesshoumaru-sama."

Takeshi nodded and held out his hand – Kagome took it without fear as the shadows swallowed them whole.

.

Sesshoumaru wasn't concentrating on the new bill he needed to pass. His mind was elsewhere as he held the brush out above his ink pad. He had not heard anything from the miko so he assumed it was a good thing. There had been no brute displays of power or screams. No scent of blood filled the air and Sesshoumaru had to admit he had been somewhat uncertain about this meeting – not worried, never worried for the Western Lord did not feel such emotion.

He had sent a kitten into a lion's den.

Would the kitten fend off the lions with her claws or would she be devoured?

The day grew later and he knew that the miko would soon be done with lunch and would be coming to him soon. He wondered if she would have found anything substantial. Placing his brush down Sesshoumaru gazed out the window knowing he would get nothing done while his mind was otherwise occupied. He had been confident that this was the best course of action – speak to the cardinal females who gossip amongst themselves with their too large mouths to see what could be found out. War was a tricky thing with all its intricacies. He had men among the borders, patrolling the Western Lands at every turn but would it be enough?

A knock on his door caused him to call out a quick, "Come in."

He had assumed it would be Akihiro or even Ichiro but no – in waltzed in the tajiya. Well, he didn't waltz but rather entered at a subdued pace and dared not glance up. Curiously Sesshoumaru watched on as the young man bowed before him and he took in the clean scent he now held rather than the death that had previously clung to him.

Cinnamon hues glanced up to the taiyoukai and the young boy cleared his throat as he began to speak, "Sesshoumaru-sama, I have much to discuss with you."

Watching the boy through half-lidded hues the taiyoukai inquired, "Oh? What could you possibly have to share with this one?"

Kohaku looked away before standing straight, a bold move without a doubt, and responded, "Naraku."

Citrine hues narrowed and Sesshoumaru leaned on one of his hands, cradling his head, silver strands pooling on his desk, "What of the vile hanyou must we discuss? Do you have memories of your time with him?"

The tajiya swallowed thickly and he nodded his head, "I remember everything from my time with Naraku."

Sesshoumaru gestured to one of the plush chairs before him and Kohaku took a seat tentatively in the Western décor, "Speak then."

Kohaku took a deep breath before beginning, "He plans on starting a war as you well know. He is pulling the strings not of a Cardinal Lord but rather a Cardinal Lady."

The young man watched as Sesshoumaru went completely still and stared at Kohaku, "You are sure of this?"

"Very much so. Naraku holds no male acquaintances… he holds only female ones at this time. Any time he speaks to them it is through Kanna's mirror and it is never male." Kohaku murmured, brows furrowed. "There are never any names and each woman is shrouded in shadow."

Sesshoumaru watched the boy with a frown on his features and glanced at the door. Female changed much. It meant Kagome was eating with their enemy. It meant different questions. It meant different motives. He honestly had his mind set on the Northern Ryuu – he had subdued their leaders more than once and they were always at odds. Shoichi harbored much hatred for the clan of the moon upon his reclaim of the West.

Sesshoumaru had slaughtered the man's mate.

He had slaughtered all seven of his children.

And he had done so all in front of the ryuu.

Oh yes, the Northern Lord had much to hate him for however his new mate had no reason to make designs upon the West.

Darkness erupted from the corner and the miko appeared with Takeshi at her side. She looked strained around her cerulean hues but there was no damage upon her person. She glanced around the room and her weariness gave way to surprise upon seeing Kohaku there, "Kohaku-kun!" she called lightly and the tajiya turned, not surprised that she was there in the slightest despite the fact the duo appeared silently.

The smile he offered her was genuine despite the shadows in his eyes, "Kagome-sama." He greeted and Kagome scoffed as she made her way toward him.

"Oh, Kohaku-kun, Sango is practically family – you are too. Call me Kagome, no honorifics needed." She murmured as she gripped his hands and pulled him up to give him a hug.

The young man sank into her embrace as he nodded his head, enjoying the feeling of complete peace in her arms. Her purity took away the haunted feeling in his aura and allowed him to relax. He pulled away and nodded his head, "Then I will be only Kohaku."

Brushing his bangs from his eyes Kagome returned his smile and turned to Sesshoumaru, "Sesshoumaru-sama! I'm alive!" she stated playfully and Sesshoumaru looked at her through veiled hues.

"Interesting word choice."

Kagome paused at the seriousness of his voice and expression and inquired, "What happened?"

He gestured for her to take a seat and she did so. Once she was settled, Taskeshi standing guard behind her he informed her cutting straight to the chase, "One of the Cardinal Ladies is cohorting with Naraku."

Kagome blinked once as she tilted her head to the side and inquired, "A Cardinal Lady? Not a Lord? One of the women I was just eating with?" Kagome's lips were set into a light frown and she began to nibble on her bottom lip, "That changes things but not much."

Sesshoumaru gazed at the woman curiously and leaned forward, "Continue."

Clearing her throat Kagome began to pace, a habit he had did not know she had, as she spoke, "Well – the only difference is that we're looking at a woman that has reason to overthrow her mate – which she is obviously attempting to do. In this day and age no Lord would allow his mate or wife attempt a full out war even with his permission. This is the warring era of Japan where men are making names for themselves by conquering other lands. I just left the Cardinal women and I can provide some insight!" her voice was chipper when she ended and she turned to him with a smile, "This is good news!"

Sesshoumaru gestured to seat beside Kohaku and Kagome took it quickly, "Tell me what information you have obtained."

"The Northern Kitsune holds some disdain for her mate. More than some actually. She hinted that he believes in a quiet lady. One that does 'seen and not heard'. She is still bitter over the hanyou child that her mate had sired. The Eastern Lady may be involved in some less than savory dealings with her mate. Land was acquired in the South by a minor Eastern Lord however the Southern Koumori had not heard a hint of the dealing. The Eastern Lady is also in love with her position but she seems greedy. The Southern Koumori mated her mate for love and she had no bitterness in the slightest." Kagome informed him as she lifted her hand and pulled out the ringlets in her hair. Takeshi watched the action with partially lidded hues and Sesshoumaru frowned as he glanced at the guard. "Finally! I hate my hair like this… anyway – as I was saying – each female except the South seems to have a reason to dislike their mate or want more power."

"So ether the North or the East." Sesshoumaru quietly murmured as he began to sift through several documents before turning cool, golden hues to Kagome, "We will have to wait for my mother to awake – she is the only one that can tell us where we should begin to look. She has known Mizuki-sama almost since her birth and can tell us whether or not she is capable of overthrowing her mate."

Kagome's words were grave when she spoke, "Sesshoumaru-sama… every woman is capable of overthrowing a mate – even Sayuri-sama who claims to love hers."

Golden irises narrowed at the miko and Sesshoumaru inquired carefully, "And you, miko? Do you have that same capability?"

The miko was silent and Takeshi stilled at her side with a look of concealed anger at the taiyoukai. Kohaku could do little more then watch the emotions that played upon her features. Anger gave way to sadness and Kagome looked up with her Western Lady persona dominating her cerulean hues, "I am capable of far more than I thought possible." her power fluctuated around her and her voice lowered, "Far more." Her cerulean hues softened and she reached across the desk to where Sesshoumaru's hands lay and she gripped one tentatively but gently, "But I could never do something so treacherous to one of those I hold close."

Citrine hues watched as those frail, ningen hand released his own clawed digits and he was surprised by the lingering warmth though he did not show it. He removed his hand from the desk and flexed his fingers in his lap experimentally, trying to rid of the feeling she had left while he nodded his head once to her, "It is good to know, miko." The taiyoukai turned to Kohaku and arched a brow in his direction, "Tajiya – do you know what you will do now?"

Kagome scoffed before glancing at the young male, "He's staying here with us."

Sesshoumaru turned to Kagome and said nothing as he watched the stubborn set of her shoulders and tilt of her chin. This was more of the young woman peeking through – and had he been one to follow his urges he would have chuckled at the picture she made. Instead he nodded his head and with a lazy gesture of his hand informed her, "He is your responsibility, your guest. You find accommodations for him and see to his needs."

Her smile was bright until her cerulean hues landed on the hand she had not touched earlier, "What is that?" she asked quickly and almost panicked as she jolted from her seat.

"What is what?" Sesshoumaru turned to her as she pointed to his charred hand from yesterday's sparring with Ichiro. "I was burned by Ichiro."

Her shriek was ear-piercing as made her way to his side of the desk and began to pull him from his chair. Kohaku watched on with almost horror knowing the stories of Sesshoumaru and Takeshi could do little more than sneer, "Come on – we're going to see the healer."

"It is a little burn and will heal in time." He informed her loftily, refusing to budge from his seat.

Kagome growled and continued to push and pull, "It is disgusting and your blackened skin is flaking all over the place." She made a sound of disgust in the back of her throat and shook her head. "Honestly, Sesshoumaru-sama, this cannot go unchecked."

With a long suffering sigh the taiyoukai stood and gazed at the miko with citrine hues partially closed, "I will have this looked at if you stop nagging."

Kagome glared but nodded her head, "Fine – but we're going together. I want to check on your mother." Kagome turned to Takeshi and gestured to Kohaku, "Takeshi? Can you please take Kohaku to the Northern Wing and have him settled into a guest room there? Kohaku – if you need anything please let me know." She moved from Sesshoumaru's side and bent her head to press a kiss to his temple which caused the fifteen year old to flush crimson, "I'll find you shortly."

"Yes, Kagome." He choked out and she nodded her head at the two.

Kagome turned to Sesshoumaru who made his way to her side and offered his arm, the one without the blackened hand, and guided her from the room. They made their way down the corridors of the Western House in silence until Sesshoumaru cleared his throat. "You are leaving tomorrow."

The miko frowned at his side as she turned to gaze upward at him, "I am?"

"I know this is sudden however you need to visit the Obsidian Compound and return home quickly." He informed her as she came to an abrupt stop, "What is wrong?"

Kagome turned cool cerulean hues to him and quietly asked, "What is the job function of the Obsidian Inu? During the luncheon… the other ladies said that Takeshi came from a clan of – " she paused looking for the right words and finally sighed, " – a clan of whores."

Sesshoumaru looked around at the maids that filtered through the halls and gripped Kagome's upper arm, dragging her into one of the storage rooms on the side. The room was dark and dusty and the only light filtering through was that, that came in through the wooden blinds that were partially open. There were boxes and scrolls and artifacts littering the floors and lining the walls. Kagome frowned and looked around, "What is all this stuff?"

Sesshoumaru hummed as he gripped a lantern off of one the many boxes and lit it with flick of acid from his claws, "Artifacts from my father's wandering days."

"Why are we in here?"

Sesshoumaru gestured outside as the fire illuminated her features, "Because there are many ears out there. You asked about the Obsidian Inu…"

"I thought they were warriors." She stated softly.

Sesshoumaru nodded his head once before continuing, "They are warriors. They have always been warriors and always will be warriors however; their main source of trade is that of the body. They do not sell them away but they sell their wares to all that can pay the coin. Their females are some of the most beautiful and their males some of the most generous."

"But Takeshi - "

"Was the third son. Takeshi was trained for battle, first and foremost but he was also trained for that of the carnal aspects in life, of it I have little doubt. You do not be raised in the compound without learning the body arts."

Kagome turned cerulean hues, the lantern reflecting an orange light within their depths, to him curiously, "They really do deal in lust then." Sesshoumaru nodded his head to her once as she nibbled her bottom lip, "Do they sell their people? Against their will?"

Sesshoumaru cocked his head to the side, silver hair gliding to the side and over his shoulder, "They are raised knowing this and most embrace their lives. I do not know for certain if they are doing this against their will. It is not our concern. The Obsidian are a power unto themselves. They are within our lands, yes, but what they do is not our concern as long as they do it within the bounds of the law. Do you understand? You cannot interfere."

"Will you be accompanying me?" Kagome asked after a moment of silence.

Sesshoumaru narrowed his hues curiously as he softly inquired, "Did you want me to?" She had never before asked him to accompany her anywhere. Not in to the village, not when she went home, and certainly never anywhere else. It was a curious feeling he felt when she nodded her head once, eyes cast downward.

"Please – I would… feel safer with you there." She murmured and something within the taiyoukai rose at her admission.

She felt safe in his presence.

Which she should have – he was her Lord. He should always be the one she turned to when she felt uneasy or filled with fear. She was right to put her safety within his hands because he would keep her safe always. It was his right – his duty as her Lord. His eyes flashed crimson for just a moment before returning to gold. Her head been turned downward so she did not see and for that he was grateful. He had gained most of his hard won control back but there were still times when his primal beast simmered below the surface and for some reason – her admission had caused it to react.

"Then I shall – we leave tomorrow at dawn. Take the day to relax and I shall ensure our supplies will be ready. It will take half a day if we travel by foot." He informed her and she nodded her head at him once, her cheeks flushed in embarrassment. "Why are you embarrassed?"

"I feel childish for asking you to come with me. I should be able to handle this on my own and considering we are preparing for an unknown enemy – preparing for war… I shouldn't take you from your work here."

Sesshoumaru scoffed and patted her head as he was oft to do and she turned to look up at him, "War is war, Kagome… it is as old as time itself. I have told you once that though we must prepare it does not mean we cannot let the little things sit. Ichiro knows what must be done and Cerdwin will assist as well. We will be gone two days at most and I do not believe chaos will hit the West so quickly."

Kagome nodded and there was a moment of silence that descended between them and Sesshoumaru suddenly realized how tight it was pressed between the chests and artifacts that went from wall to wall. Her scent was crisp beneath the layers of dust and enticed his nose and he was reminded just how small and feminine the miko truly was. The light little light from the outside was cast into her eyes as well as the light from the small lamp making her cerulean hues dance. Almost unwittingly he allowed the hand on her head to drop to the dark curls around her cheeks and paused, surprised by the texture.

Kagome looked startled and didn't move as his citrine hues remained locked on the dark curls in his hand. She barely dared to breathe as Sesshoumaru stared at her hair and took a lock between clawed digits. His voice was curious and low when he murmured, "Soft." For a moment the glaze in his eyes made it seem like he was no longer in the room with her but somewhere much further – far away from her. She tentatively brought her own small fingers to grasp his stripped wrist and he blinked back the haze that settled in his eyes.

He pulled back slowly and she released his hand as she inquired gently, "Are you alright, Sesshoumaru-sama?"

Sesshoumaru stiffened slightly and with a curt bow he replied, voice strained, "I apologize for my forwardness." That said he turned abruptly and she was briefly blinded by the hall as he all but ran from the room.

She blinked at the empty doorway and room and quietly asked herself, "What just happened?"

.

Sesshoumaru was thinking much the same thing as he retreated back to his office.

What just happened?

He had no idea what had come over him. The moment he felt the softness of those curls – truly felt them – he seemed to enter a trance. It was not that she was unappealing or even the fact that she was ningen that disgusted him – it was that abrupt lack of control where he couldn't have stopped himself even if he had tried. The fact remained that he hadn't tried to stop and that worried him. He almost cursed as he settled into his chair and rubbed his hand over his eyes. Clearly it was just a brief moment of control gone.

The interesting part it wasn't his primal half that acted at that moment.

It had been himself – and maybe that horrified and intrigued him all at once and more then he cared to admit.

.

With a sigh Kagome adjusted the lighter and less extravagant kimono she was wearing and clung to the small basket in her hands. She stepped from her rooms and looked around. Takeshi had not returned from his duties with Kohaku and she almost pouted. She had grown so used to having him at her side that when she didn't she began to get somewhat antsy. Moving down the many halls and passing maids and servants as she went, Kagome made her way to the healing chambers.

She still wanted to check on Mizuki.

Entering the room quietly Kagome gazed about and didn't see Arisu anywhere within the room. Sliding the door shut behind her Kagome made her way to the mat in the center of the room where Mizuki lay, pale and slowly breathing. She looked down at the beautiful inu youkai and pursed her lips to keep from crying. Although she knew Mizuki would be fine it didn't take away from the black that still filled the veins along her throat that shone through to the flesh. She placed the basket beside her and pulled out a brush.

"Oh Mizuki-sama." She murmured, voice thick as she pulled her to the side and began to brush the silvery strands. "I wish you were here right now to lend me your strength and offer me advice. I fight tomorrow." She whispered softly, closing her eyes before opening them once more and continuing to brush the youkai's hair. "I fight to keep my friend and I am so scared. I want to tell Sesshoumaru of my fears but will he laugh? Look at me with disgust? I'm supposed to be this powerful miko – the Western Lady and I am supposed to fear nothing. I am a monarch and for the lives of my people I feel nothing but joy but I'm still just a child where I am from."

Kagome's voice trailed as she continued, "So much responsibility… and I feel like I am doing the best that I can but the fact remains that I am always scared that I am not living up to standards. There are things I can't change such as my humanity but – am I too kind, not kind enough? The cardinal ladies are ruthless… and what if I didn't do well enough? I know nothing of warfare… nothing of subterfuge – can I really do this?" she inquired, her hands shaking as she thought about the larger picture. "I miss my friends and my family…" she murmured softly as she brought her right hand to brush the few tears shed away. Kagome almost leapt when warmth enveloped her hand and she turned to look up expecting to see Takeshi but instead she found herself staring into citrine hues that were softer then she had ever seen them before. "Sesshoumaru…?"

His other clawed hand was pressed to her head and the taiyoukai brushed a few strands of ebony hair away from her face while he gestured to his bandaged fingers, "I had come to receive treatment at your request. Arisu asked that I stay with Mother until she returned – imagine my surprise when I hear soft words – whispered insecurities of my Western Lady." He murmured almost gently. There was no hint of cold in his voice, just soft reassurance. "Imagine my surprise as she bares her soul to my mother."

Kagome, not sure what do or how to respond began to apologize, "I'm sor - "

She stopped when Sesshoumaru growled and interrupted her, "Miko – there is no need for apologies. I am your Lord and you will come to me when you have these… insecurities. It is my duty to alleviate you of your fears." He paused and tentatively brought the miko into the circle of his arms. He had done the same for Rin countless times and felt the way she stiffened under his touch. He did not relent and soon she settled against him and gave an almost relieved sigh. His voice was softer still when he murmured, "My mother told me to lean on you for you are mine in a way that you could never understand – youkai deal with mine and yours as you well know but you will never understand the instinct due to your humanity. If I am to lean on you then you must lean on me as well. We are not mates but we are partners and partners depend on one another."

Kagome listened to the soft vibrations of his voice against his chest and nodded her head as he continued, "I will do my best to see to your needs as I was not able to do for Rin. You require reassurance – physical and verbal and I am attempting to provide this to you now. I am not a warm being or a very verbal one either but I am trying. Be patient – Kagome, be patient."

Softly, like little bells, her laughter pealed from her throat and Sesshoumaru's brows furrowed lightly as he attempted to pull away from the miko but her dainty hands clung to his clothing as she took a moment to herself. He allowed her this desire the fact he was stung by her reaction and after several seconds she pulled away , her cerulean hues bright with joy, "You said my name – you never say my name."

"And this is cause for laughter?" he inquired, no longer stung.

Kagome shook her head, "This is cause for joy, Sesshoumaru-sama." Though he did not understand it he allowed her to pressed herself to his side once more while she basked within his warmth and her laughter died down to a light contentment. Her voice was soft when she confessed, "I hated you."

Sesshoumaru could only respond with, "I know."

Her voice was softer still when she continued, "You took away Shippo, you took away my friends, and you took away my family." Her eyes darkened when she thought of it all, "You practically spirited me away from all that I love." She was quiet for several moments until she stated, "I don't hate you anymore."

He could not help himself as he inquired in a solemn voice, "What changed?"

Kagome did not look at him – could not look at him – when she stated gently, "You gave them all back."

Sesshoumaru said nothing despite the way her admission made him feel lighter than before.

.

Night found Kagome getting ready for bed and she wasn't alone. Takeshi was there as usual and was settling behind her to brush out the few knots and tangles from her hair. It was quiet for several moments, just the sound of the brush moving through her ebony locks, until she inquired, "How is Kohaku-kun settled?"

Takeshi did not stop brushing as he responded, "The boy has taken a room and took his dinner there." Takeshi was quiet for a moment before informing her tentatively, "You should give the boy to Cerdwin."

Kagome stiffened and stared at his reflection in the mirror while he continued to brush out her hair, "And why would I do that?"

"The boy snuck in and killed eight guards. Eight of the Western Warriors and Akihiro is not known to keep weaklings within his ranks. He would do well in assassinations and Cerdwin could teach him."

Kagome frowned and nearly growled, "He is a child."

Takeshi tugged on a lock of ebony hair and Kagome scowled at his childish antics, "He knows what he is doing – you should ask him. He will grow tired here – bored even."

Kagome pursed her lips before responding in kind, "He is a gentle soul, Takeshi – his hands should have never been stained with blood."

The obsidian inu shook his head, "All hands are stained in blood."

Kagome turned to face him and shook her head, "There are horrors that boy has seen that he will never be able to unsee."

Takeshi placed the brush in his lap before touching his hands to her shoulders, "Ask him, Kagome – ask him. There is little in harm in doing that and he just may surprise you."

Kagome frowned lightly once more before relenting and nodding her head, "Alright – fine. I'll ask."

Takeshi offered a smile before ruffling her hair affectionately, "Good – most in his position find ways to repent. What better way than to remove those that fill the world with darkness?"

"If you say so." She muttered as she stood and began to walk toward her futon. Kagome shed the outer kimono she wore and began to slide under her blankets but Takeshi's voice stopped her half way.

"Are you frightened for tomorrow?" Takeshi inquired lightly.

Kagome stilled before continuing to cover herself in her blankets, "I'm nervous but not frightened." Her voice was filled with conviction when she continued, "I will win your freedom, Takeshi."

Takeshi stood and began to blow out the candles in the room until there was only a small fire from the hearth in the center. It was warmer now as spring began to descend and the snow began to melt however there was still a chill in the evening. Takeshi's voice was soft in the dark of the night – perfectly within his element, "You will meet my father tomorrow…" his words seemed to echo around the room and a shiver raced through her body even though she knew he would never hurt her.

"And what of your mother and siblings? Will I meet them as well?" she asked.

Takeshi's voice was bitter and dark when he responded, "My siblings will barely acknowledge you – they are too proud and my mother? My mother has been dead for centuries."

Kagome turned around to face the darkness and immediately her eyes sought out the darkest corner of the room where she knew Takeshi would be. His emerald hues reflected the light of the fire in an inhuman way but the rest of him was shrouded in shadow. For a moment she thought she saw something glisten in his eyes almost like a sheen of tears however before she could ask a wave of power touched her and she found herself laying back the way she was and facing the fire, her shadows restraining her like rope. Her heart leapt into her throat as she called out, "Takeshi?"

There was silence, thick and heavy, for a minute before he murmured, "Do not face me now, Kagome – I do not need sympathy or condolences."

She released a breath she did not realize she was holding as the shadows released her. A tense silence followed and Kagome cleared her throat, quietly asking, "How?"

Takeshi snorted lightly before his voice, filled with anger, betrayal, and most of all hate filled her ears, "Murdered – by my father." She went very still as she heard the tone in her guards voice. She had never heard him sound anything less than pleasant if not a little brooding.

"Takeshi – I - "

He firmly cut her off, "No, Kagome – say nothing. Just listen. I want you to know what you entering – the company in which you will find yourself in. I will not be there at your side and I am thankful Sesshoumaru-sama is going."

"What do you mean you will not be at my side?" Kagome asked almost hysterically, not liking the way the conversation was going.

"Kagome… when we enter the compound I will be taken by my father and I will be forced to transform into a smaller version of my beast and... I will be caged. We will have no contact after that point unless you win." He informed her tightly.

Kagome's eyes widened as she gasped, "Why did no one tell me sooner?"

His voice was gentle and sounded closer when he responded, "You did not need to worry yourself for weeks."

Her voice was filled with sarcasm and she rolled her eyes, "Oh no – so I can worry all night inste - "

She stopped when Takeshi's voice was right beside her ear and his clawed fingers moved through her hair, "Shh – Kagome… sleep."

The inu pulled away and breathed a yellow powder onto her nose from his free hand. Instantly the miko was sound asleep and Takeshi took a deep breath. It was difficult telling her pieces of his past that only Sesshoumaru and Mizuki knew but Kagome could not go into the compound without knowledge of who was going to be in her company. He watched her sleep soundly and a piece of him hated himself for dragging her into his affairs – hated Sesshoumaru for giving him to her. He understood the politics behind it all but he didn't have to like it.

Staring down at her sleeping face she looked so innocent and tomorrow she would kill to keep him. Not to defend him but to keep him by her side. It made him sick but a larger part of him was wholly content that she cared for him enough to do fight on his behalf – it was that part that caused him to lean over and press his lips to her temple and stay beside her until morning dawned bright and early.

.

Kagome stared at Ah and Un as they came running toward her, both excited to see her. She braced herself as the ryuu's wriggling body brushed against her and their heads both butted her at the same time. She was dressed in one of her fighting gi's. It was very similar to Sesshoumaru's every day clothing except hers was dark blue with white accents here and there. Himeno had braided her hair so that it hung down her back like a thick, black snake. Her nerves were a mess and she was currently trying to concentrate on everything else but her upcoming fight and meeting Takeshi's family.

Takeshi was behind her but she paid him no mind, still tiffed about the evening before and how he had blatantly knocked her out and didn't seem the least bit remorseful. The obsidian youkai allowed her, her anger and did what any male did when in the proverbial dog house did. He gave her space and did nothing short of grovel her at feet each time she asked him to do something. Kagome scratched the scales behind Ah and Un's heads causing a rough rumble to come from their chests. They had been saddled accordingly and now Kagome and Takeshi were waiting on Sesshoumaru.

They didn't wait long in the courtyard for Sesshoumaru exited the House of the West with Cerdwin, Ichiro, and Shigure were at his side, talking in low voices. As they drifted closer Kagome was able to pick up more of the conversation.

" – if my mother wakes then let her know where we are and ensure that she stays here. If we are not back by noon tomorrow then send Sect three and seven after us. I do not anticipate any foul play but one never knows with Yasumoto." Sesshoumaru informed the three almost detachedly. "Shigure – you will be in charge of daily affairs, Ichiro in charge of the war council, and Cerdwin in charge of household. Should anything happen to myself then the West goes to Kagome – if anything happens to both of us then the West should fall back to my mother."

Cerdwin blanched, her pale face going paler, and her whiteless eyes seemed to widen, "Do you anticipate not returning?"

Sesshoumaru made a slight sound before turning to the mermaid and pausing, "War will be upon us soon and we do not know from what direction. All topics will be covered and though I do not see my life ending anytime soon I do want to ensure there is no confusion should the worst occur."

Kagome watched as the three bowed at the waist before stating in unison, "Peace be with you should you fall."

Sesshoumaru tilted his head in their direction, his version of a bow, before turning and making his way to Kagome. He stopped before her, citrus hues cold and unyielding. He stared at her long and hard before inquiring, "Are you ready, miko?" Kagome's voice was caught in her throat so she could do little more than nod. "Takeshi has informed you of what will happen?"

Clearing her throat she murmured, "Yes."

Nodding his head Sesshoumaru brushed a hand along the swords at his waist, "Good. You will ride Ah-Un and Takeshi and myself will be beside you as we make our way to the compound. We will travel quick and be there within the hour. We will not have time to talk once we are there – is there anything you wish to discuss before we take our leave?"

With a sigh Kagome stated quickly, "I'm nervous."

A sound came from Sesshoumaru as though agreeing with her, "I can smell as such – do not worry. You have trained for this and come a long way. You are a miko and youkai are an easy thing for you to purify. Everything will be done for the better and we will return home by tomorrow and Yasumoto will be of little consequence then and you will have bought Takeshi more time of freedom."

Taking a deep breath Kagome nodded her head slowly, "Alright then – I'm ready."

Takeshi and Sesshoumaru eyes met above Kagome's head and the guard lifted her onto Ah and Un. She clung to their reigns as the inner and outer gates opened and watched as Takeshi blurred through them. Ah and Un took to the sky, Sesshoumaru right beside them on a cloud of youki and then they were flying through the clouds at speeds that Inuyasha could never quite reach on his own. Instinctively Kagome ducked her head and buried it into the short mane of the youkai currently carrying her and tried not to think of where they were going.

.

Several hours into the morning found the trio stopped at the edge of a forest. Kagome shivered as fog blanketed the trees in an ominous way and Takeshi found himself moving closer to his charge to alleviate some of her fear. Power seeped off the forest in waves and after a moment Kagome gasped, turning to Sesshoumaru with wide eyes, "That's not fog is it? It's youki!"

Sesshoumaru gave her a curt nod before his cool voice informed her, "The forest itself is alive. Only the obsidian inu can live in peace here without being harmed. Their breed eats a certain fruit in the forest that is poisonous to all but their kind. This fruit changes their aura's so that the tree's recognize them as one of theirs and allows them to live without fear."

Kagome turned to Sesshoumaru with curiosity filling her voice, "And what of us? How will we survive?" she turned back to the forest and watched as the youki seemed to darken and another shivered raced through her body.

Sesshoumaru pointed to a small area where there was no foliage, "In a moment a few guards will appear and they will give us another type of fruit that will allow us temporary passage."

"How long?" Kagome asked quickly.

It was Takeshi who answered next, "Twelve hours and then the tree's - "

Takeshi's voice broke off and Kagome turned around to look at Takeshi only to see he was no longer there. Kagome's voice broke out quietly in both confusion and horror, "Takeshi?"

Sesshoumaru was by her side instantly, his hand on her shoulder. She looked up at him and his voice was solemn when he murmured, "It begins."

Harsh laughter came from in front of them and the two turned to face the direction the sound came from. Kagome's voice came strangled as she murmured, "Takeshi."

Hands held behind his back, eyes blindfolded, and mouth gaged, stood Takeshi. There were two men with him. One was holding his Takeshi's hands behind him and the other was the one laughing. Kagome's eyes were drawn to the laughing youkai and she took note of the similarities and differences between her guard and the male.

His hair was cut short, not nearly as long as Takeshi's, and brushed just below his earlobes, and his eyes were a darker green then Takeshi's. He was shorter by an inch or two then her guard but more muscled and defined. His face was harsh with scars of battle and other horrors of the world and soon his laughter came to a stop. He looked over to Kagome, bypassing Sesshoumaru completely and grinned at her.

His voice was deep, dark, and sent fear crawling along her spine, "The Western Bitch is here, huh?"

His eyes were unforgiving as they bore into her and a sharp growl from Sesshoumaru to the other youkai brought her out of her stupor. She quickly blinked to rid herself of her thoughts and fears and released a haughty snort and a glare, "You show respect to your Lady and Lord, youkai – and you do so now or face consequences."

The youkai arched a brow and gave a mock bow, "Ahh – my apologies, Lady of the West." He stood and grinned at them once again, "We of the Obsidian Clan gibe our many thanks for returning home Takeshi-sama. He has been sorely missed by all, you see." He gave a pout that came off more than cruel before his grin lit his face again and this time there was a hint of madness within it. She wanted to step close to Sesshoumaru but she knew she would lose ground if she did so. "You may leave now that we have our wayward lordling back."

Kagome took a step forth and frowned, "I am fighting for him – I am not returning him."

The youkai shrugged his shoulders before walking toward her, "Suit yourself – I thought I would give you the option to return home. Sesshoumaru-sama surely does not care of your death then, does he? Pity…" he stopped before her and reached into a small pouch that hung at his side. He brought out two pieces of sliced yellow fruit and offered them to Kagome, his grin turning lascivious, "…you sure are a pretty one."

Kagome took the fruit tentatively from his hand and slowly popped them into her mouth. It was dry and tasted awful but she managed to choke it down and watched as the youkai offered the same fruit to Sesshoumaru. The youkai watched as Sesshoumaru also ate the fruit and then began to back away. Before he could get very far a flash of green light flicked outward and Sesshoumaru's poison whip was wrapped around the other youkai's throat.

The youkai choked as hissing filled the quiet and the whip began to eat at the flesh of his neck. Sesshoumaru's voice was unforgiving and his eyes were narrowed to slits as he growled, "You will show respect, Shinta or you will return back to the compound in pieces, understood?" the youkai – Shinta's, eyes began to bulge and the scent of burning flesh filled Kagome's nostrils as Sesshoumaru growled, "I do not repeat myself, Shinta."

Shinta nodded his head and Sesshoumaru released the youkai abruptly. The youkai lost footing and stumbled back gasping for breath and glared at Sesshoumaru through hate filled orbs. Shinta turned to the other youkai and nodded his head. The other youkai and Takeshi disappeared as the shadow travelled and Kagome watched them go with a heavy heart.

"We will shadow travel, Sesshoumaru-sama…" the youkai informed Sesshoumaru with a hint of a growl in his voice. Sesshoumaru offered his hand to Kagome and Kagome took it with no hesitation as she was brought to his side and buried her face in his momoko. Shinta grasped Sesshoumaru's arm and they were shadow travelling. It was a short trip and Kagome found her stomach in knots much like her previous experiences as they appeared in the center of a large room.

There was a man seated in what Kagome could only describe as some sort of throne and she knew who he was by the darkness in his eyes and his features that resembled her guard's so greatly.

She couldn't stop herself from whispering, "Yasumoto."

The man offered her smile that was less than kind, "Hello, Kagome-sama, it is a pleasure to meet you." His gaze flickered to Sesshoumaru and his smile widened, "Welcome back, Sesshoumaru-sama."

Sesshoumaru inclined his head and greeted him in kind, "Yasumoto-san."

Kagome watched as the man stood from his seat, piled high with pillows and surrounded by lovely youkai, and was surprised by the length of his hair which reached down to his ankles. It was darker then Takeshi's but there was no doubt that this man was his father. He walked down the few stairs that separated him from the ground and made his way over to Kagome and Sesshoumaru. He stopped several feet away and looked down at Kagome, "I see you are prepared to for the fight to take place."

"Yes – I am. We have much to do when we return home and I would like to get this over quickly." Kagome stated quickly.

Yasumoto chuckled and shook his head, "You are so confident that you will win. The failings of youth I am sure."

Kagome shook her head, "Not failings – confidence. It is confidence in myself that brings me here. I will win and take Takeshi home."

There was a demented almost sad expression on Yasumoto's face when he murmured, "But my son has just returned – my youngest after so many years, and you would take him from me?"

Kagome met his eyes, her own hard and yielding as she stated in a voice of confidence, "I would. He belongs at the Western House – he is mine."

Sesshoumaru cleared his throat and Yasumoto turned his attention to Sesshoumaru, "We would like to proceed. There is no need for small talk."

Yasumoto tsked but backed away and made his way to the opened doors to left that overlooked a small training ground, "This way then – you will find that nothing has changed, Sesshoumaru-sama."

The duo followed the man outside where three trained. Two were significantly older then the third who appeared to be no older than the ningen equivalent of twelve. They each resembled the obsidian clan head in some way shape or form and Kagome determined that they were all related which was impossible. Takeshi had said that he only had two brothers and they were both older than he.

"Boys! Come here!" Yasumoto called and the three abruptly stopped what they were doing and made their way toward Kagome and Sesshoumaru. The youngest was a splitting image of Yasumoto with shorter hair whereas the other two had a more delicate bone structure about their faces. The tallest was the same height as Takeshi and had eyes that were so dark brown she had thought they were black. The third male had hair that was lighter than Takeshi's dark locks but was still a soft shade of black and his eyes were the same unyielding green as Yasumoto's. "Meet my son's – Daiki - " he gestured to the tallest male, " – Katsurou - " the second tallest. " – and Isamu." The youngest.

The three males bowed to the waist and Sesshoumaru pointed to Isamu, "He is a new addition."

Yasumoto nodded and gestured for the child to walk forward. He did so and Yasumoto placed a hand on his head, "He is Takeshi's half brother but he has shown just as much promise as my Takeshi has if not more." He murmured almost to himself. He turned to Kagome and Sesshoumaru and the smile was back in place when he stated, "Well then – let us begin." He turned to Katsurou and titled his head in his direction. The male disappeared in shadows and reappeared several moments later with Takeshi in hand.

A horrified gasp left Kagome's lips and anger coursed through her quickly. She almost took a step forward but Sesshoumaru's hand on her shoulder kept her back. Her cerulean hues took in every mark, every bruise, every cut that littered Takeshi's body. He had been stripped naked and the gag and blindfold had been removed, "Why would you do this?" Kagome finally managed to hiss out between clenched teeth.

Yasumoto shrugged his shoulders and murmured, "Because I can. He left us."

Katsurou pushed Takeshi to his hands and knees in front of Kagome and she knelt at his side. Takeshi spat blood to ground and brought a shaking hand to his lips and she found that each finger had been broken in several places. Her only thought was not that they needed to pay or that this was Takeshi. She refused to acknowledge what just happened. No – her first thought was, They work fast. There were deep lacerations on his side that bled profusely and Kagome found trembling digits aching to rid of his pain. He looked up at her and his right eye had been swollen shut. Lips pursed Kagome watched as Yasumoto's hand descended upon Takeshi's head.

Takeshi leaned forward to her ear before a shudder of pain raced through his body and youki began to fill the area. His voice was hoarse but filled with conviction when he whispered, "I have faith in you."

He was pulled away from her viciously as Yasumoto dragged him by his hair several yards away and a yell tore from Takeshi's throat. His transformation ripped through his body as it was forced upon him by Yasumoto's power. Kagome watched as something moved beneath Takeshi's skin with almost sick fascination as though he were not the only one inhabiting his body. Takeshi continued to cry out as his back bowed backwards and bone cracked and popped. Sweat gathered on his skin as he tried to fight the transformation but Yasumoto's power won out as flesh and blood flew from his body here and there as his beast was yanked into his humanoid flesh. Black fur wet with gore and thick fluids hung off his inu beast that was the size of a small horse. Kagome brought her hand to her lips to keep from crying out and Sesshoumaru leaned down to whisper in her ear.

"This is what happens when a youkai is forced to transform into their other self. Yasumoto can force his power into his clansman and bring out their beasts. He is the only one known to do this out any youkai clan – it is a skill that he has acquired through time." He murmured so soft Kagome barely heard him over the beating of his heart.

Takeshi lay on the hard ground, panting heavily and whimpering in pain. Isamu walked toward Takeshi and grasped his front and back paws and dragged him over to a small cage that would barely fit him. Kagome's heart beat within her chest erratically as she watched him maneuvered into the small space as a high pitched yip of agony tore from his throat. She just barely managed to stop herself from rushing over and purifying the younger half brother to her guard and had it not been for Sesshoumaru's hand on her arm she would have.

Yasumoto turned back to Kagome and Sesshoumaru gestured to the training field, "Shall we continue?" Sesshoumaru nodded seeing as Kagome could do little more than gape and full out laughter erupted from the clan head. "Good, wonderful, wonderful! Whenever Kagome-sama is ready to begin then."

Sesshoumaru nudged her side and Kagome pulled her eyes from Takeshi's prone form and cerulean met citrine. Kagome read the message loud and clear as he gave her a look that spoke volumes, No mercy. Wake up and be the Western Lady.

Kagome nodded her head and took a deep breath, shaking off the remnants of her pain for Takeshi. She moved to the center of the training field, her steps smooth and precise. She stopped in the middle and turned to Yasumoto – waiting for her opponent. Isamu began to walk forth and her eyes hardened at the grin that played on the child's lips. Her heart chanted, he is a child. Child. Child. Child. But her head argued back, He hurt Takeshi because he could.

It was no different than fighting Hakudoshi or Kanna.

This youkai had to die or Takeshi would have to stay behind and suffer.

Kagome wouldn't allow that as the boy took fighting position in front of her.

Takeshi's voice echoed in her head as she began to get into her own position.

I am your guard and therefore will follow you until relieved of my services.

"Right arm out in front." She murmured softly – so soft that the youkai before could pick up no words.

Alright, Kagome-sama, where will we be heading?

"Left arm pulled close and tight to the body for defense."

You are brave, Kagome-sama. Brave and strong.

"Right foot in front, toes pointed downward."

I was bent on disliking you but that wasted energy so I turned that dislike into making you stronger.

"Left foot planted firmly behind body."

I have faith in you.

"Hold nothing back." She ended as silver encased her eyes and power formed in her hands.

The two said nothing as the wind shifted and Kagome moved – making the first strike.

The boy cried out at he blocked Kagome's right fist filled with her energy and burnt his hand. His eyes widened as he breathed the word, "Miko." Kagome only nodded as he disappeared in a flurry of shadows and reappeared behind her. She was locked onto his signature and was aware the very moment he appeared behind her. A silver powered barrier went up as the boy crashed into with a pike made of shadows. The barrier disappeared and Kagome brought her fore finger to the pike and purified the shadow weapon.

The boy used his youki and Kagome – well, she was a miko and she purified youki.

He disappeared into the shadows again and Kagome could feel him distantly within her own shadow. Travelling about within it. His hands came from the shadow that she cast and barely managed to seep power into her ankles as he reached for them, ready to drag her into the realm of shadows. He growled as his hands were singed once more and retreated back into her shadow. This time Kagome could feel him lingering again but something was different. She watched and waited until at the last moment shadow knives erupted from the space he occupied within.

Her eyes widened and she jumped back but the shadow moved with her and she had no chance to dodge. A barrier erupted around her and blocked most of the assault but one of the knives nicked her cheek causing a thin line of blood to mar her face. The male chuckled and Kagome scowled as she felt him gather enough power for another assault. She could do nothing until the portal between the shadow realm and the real world opened but the moment that it did, Kagome pressed her hands through it and sent a blast of purification inside. Isamu screeched just as a small portal opened off to the side and he jumped out, her power hot on his tail as he managed to dodge.

The moment he was out, Kagome was there with a bow made of energy and an arrow ready to be shot. She released the energy arrow in his direction and Isamu's eyes widened as his shadows engulfed him and Kagome's arrow met air. Isamu appeared again and this time there was darkness in his eyes as he full on rushed her. Kagome took a defensive stance just as Isamu used speed that would have once dizzied her. Now she was able to keep up with the child as he appeared beside her and made a shot for her cheek with a shadow blade in hand.

She was able to effective block and toss him to the side but the boy was relentless. Regardless of how relentless he was Kagome had trained with Sesshoumaru and Takeshi and both had different levels of speed from the boy in front of her. She dodge back from his blade but his empty left hand shot outward and her own shadow leapt up and dragged her to the ground. She fell and the air left her body with an 'oomf' and black tendrils began to create thick binds around her. Her own shadow began to turn her into a version of a black mummy and she struggled until her silver encased hues were the only thing left.

Purification energy exploded from her and dispersed the shadows around her, purifying the youki that controlled them quickly. She attempted to stand but her shadow was there once more pulling her to the ground. She growled in frustration and again purified the black tendrils and a chuckle escaped the boy. Kagome narrowed her eyes at him and an orb of silver filled her hands.

Isamu shook his head as Kagome was slowly being dragged into the shadow realm as he tsked, "Neh, Kagome-sama… you're about to enter my realm now."

Kagome's free hand grasped the ground and left nail marks behind as she continued to be dragged. The hand that held her silver orb of energy split into three and she held her hand out. The orbs shot forward and Isamu's eyes widened as he attempted to dodge them as they came toward him. As he dodged they just followed him until they made impact and exploded and the boy screamed. Kagome took this time of distraction to pull herself from the cold realm and stand once more on solid land. An arrow of energy was made once more and just before she was about to shoot, a tendril from the shadow realm shot forward behind her and impaled her side.

Blood spurted from her wound and Kagome cried out as she touched her side. The wound was deep – but it was one wound. She took deep breaths and pushed away the pain as Isamu stood in front of her clutching his shoulder where the worst explosion took place. He grinned at her as black overtook his irises and he ran at her once more, shadow blade in his freehand.

Kagome pursed her lips as she followed his movements until she finally caught him front of her. He threw the blade at her and she dodge back but the moment the blade never met the ground. Instead the shadow realm opened and swallowed it whole. Kagome's eyes widened when she realized what happened but didn't realize fast enough as another black portal opened up in front of her and the blade clipped her thigh.

She hit the ground when he leg gave way and Isamu stood in front of her with a smile. He lifted his leg and firmly kicked her in the face sending her to the side and spitting blood from her mouth. She never touched solid ground – a portal opened beneath her and sucked her right into the shadow realm. Isamu laughed as he disappeared after her but he never saw the triumph flash in Kagome's eyes.

Before the portal could close – purification swelled within the realm and erupted from the hole in a bright flash of light. A tower of purification power burst outward and into the sky making the skin crawl on all youkai within a mile radius. The tower faded as Isamu burst from the hole, skin burnt. He fell to the ground just as Kagome pulled herself from the portal and stood. She limped over to the prone body of the boy with his charred and blackened flesh. His breathing was labored as he lay on his back and Kagome starred down at him as she reached his side.

There was sweat on her brow and she was more than exhausted. She had used most of her power to fill the shadow realm to the brim with her energy so that he would have nowhere to escape. The boy's eyes were pleading but there was still a sadistic glint Kagome knew he would never lose. The obsidian fought to the death and the boy was still alive – just barely but still alive. Using what was left of her power Kagome created a bow and arrow of energy and pointed it directly at his forehead.

Her eyes were hard when she whispered, "For Takeshi."

She released the arrow.

Yasumoto screamed his son's name.

Sesshoumaru was by her side in an instant as she collapsed – his arms cradling her close.

The last thing she heard was Sesshoumaru's growling and the sound of swords being unsheathed.

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'Gome Yuki:: YO. I was supposed to post this Friday but I apparently had a family reunion scheduled. Yeah that sucks balls. I got into town today. T~T Here you go though! Sesshoumaru and Kagome spent some time together and Takeshi has been fought for! YAY CARDINAL LADIES. One of them is our villain! Can you guess who? ALSO MY COMMISSION IS DONE! It has Takeshi and Akihiro and OHEMGEE Akihiro is SMEXXXXY. I didn't want to upload this chapter until the commission was done but then when it was done I lacked the funds to pay it. For those of you that want to see it and say "THANK YOU LADY SHIERU" a link is below. NO SPACES. If it doesn't appear I'll have it linked in my profile(: I love how Kagome is slowly becoming a badass and shedding her old skin(: EEEK! ONORA IS SO CUTE! More on her laterThank you guys so much for hanging in there for me and loving this story as much as I do! Share your thoughts? And review? :D

: / / ladyshieru . deviantart gallery / # / d5eikwh