Walking through the halls of the Western Palace, the blue-eyed miko
couldn't help but be intimidated. The walls were embossed with gold and
silver and imbedded with jewels. Scenes depicting the rise of the House of
Inu lined the walls leading to the Great Hall of the Western Palace.
Shuddering at some of the more graphic pictorials, Kagome vowed to avoid
this section of the palace during her stay here.
The small group, including the still-comatose Sakura, had been summoned to appear before the Western Lord as soon as they had set foot inside the outer gates. The blue-eyed miko had shuddered at the thought of meeting Inuyasha's father. His son was intimidating enough as it is. What would the father be like?
So lost in thought was the young miko that she did not realize their small party had come to a halt. Only after she ran into Yoshiro's back did she notice that they had arrived. If the hallway had rendered her speechless, then the entrance to the Great Hall could take Kagome's voice away completely. Silver shimmered, gold glistened, and diamonds dazzled on the large doors of the Hall. The shape of a crescent moon had been etched in the doors, spanning the size of both doors. Still in awe, Kagome was abruptly shaken from her admiration by Sesshoumaru's terse and frigid voice.
"Miko, do not gawk as if you were a commoner. In order for you to stay in the Western Palace, you must prove your worth to Inu Taisho. While you are under both mine and Yoshiro's protection, we can do nothing if he decides that you cannot stay. Understand?"
Nodding once, Kagome held the shivers that threatened to run down her spine at bay. Yet again, Kagome thought about how different this Sesshoumaru was compared to the one she knew previously. Before she could continue on that train of thought however, the doors swung open, beckoning the quartet to enter.
Taking a deep breath, Kagome steadied herself as the small band walked into the Hall. Holding her head high, the young miko walked down the Hall alongside Yoshiro and Sesshoumaru, calming herself with the knowledge that she was protected by the two. Not bothering to hide her aura, Kagome felt many in the Hall shrink back from her in fear of being purified.
The dais on which Inu Taisho resided came into sight. Much to Kagome's surprise, instead of a demon in humanoid form, Inu Taisho stood there in his demon form, eyes glowing and jaws parted. Remembering what Sesshoumaru had said about staring, Kagome forcefully pushed the awe that she felt at seeing the Western Lord in demon form away.
A nudge from Yoshiro captured Kagome's attention. Turning towards the grey- eyed demon, she took the proffered child. Realizing what was about to happen, Kagome stepped away from the two demons beside her as they began to transform as well. Anxiety hit Kagome like a ton of bricks as she realized how small she seemed against these demons.
Looking up, the miko was awed by the sight of Yoshiro in demon form. A silver crescent moon appeared on his forehead as his body changed to that of a dog. It seemed strange to Kagome that she hadn't noticed the mark before. Chestnut fur sprung from Yoshiro's now canine form.
Suppressing the desire to back away from the transformed demon, Kagome turned her attention to Sesshoumaru. Although she had once seen the young lord in his true form, it was never at this proximity. And at that time, she had been afraid for her life, therefore not taking the time to take in the details.
Sesshoumaru was a more grandiose version of Yoshiro. His figure was significantly larger than that of Yoshiro's. In fact, Kagome though that his size could rival, if not beat, that of Inu Taisho's. The silvery fur on his body gave him an unearthly glow. Kagome noted that his eyes stayed the same amber however, seeing as he wasn't threatened nor in battle.
Mentally berating herself, Kagome focused her attention on the current situation. Slight growls and whimpers were being emitted from the two demons that flanked her. Although she could not understand the sounds that were being made, Kagome could, strangely enough, understand what was being said.
Paying close attention, the miko heard Yoshiro's account of Aki's death. Sesshoumaru remained still until Yoshiro had finished. Then, in commanding tones, he told Inu Taisho of the youki that lingered on Sakura's body, as well as the need for the child and her protector to reside at the Western Palace until said issue is resolved.
As Sesshoumaru spoke, Inu Taisho turned his attention to the child and the miko. The child was quickly dismissed as he ascertained his son's words. The miko, however, interested him to no ends. She did not bow her head as most would have. Instead, her startling blue eyes boldly met his in an arrogant manner. Her figure was pleasing as well, curves in all the right places.
Silently musing, Inu Taisho thought that maybe he needed a break from Mariko. After all, the bitch's constant clinging and incessant whining was becoming increasingly annoying and the perfect opportunity for an affair had just presented itself. His lustful thoughts were cut short as Sesshoumaru issued a warning snarl.
The young lord had seen the look that Inu Taisho was giving the miko before. Sesshoumaru knew that the miko was now in danger of being forced to become a concubine for his father. Choosing to discuss the matter with her later, he fought the urge to wrinkle his nose in disgust as the scent of Inu Taisho's arousal wafted up. Sesshoumaru decided that it was time to end this "conference".
Still in the language of the Inu, Sesshoumaru snarled, "I thank you for your audience, Lord Inu Taisho. I believe that this is all that needed to be discussed." Without waiting for a dismissal, both Yoshiro and Sesshoumaru reverted to their humanoid forms and with the miko and girl in tow, walked out of the Great Hall.
As the doors closed, Kagome slowly slipped out of her bravado, handed Sakura back to Yoshiro, and then ended up a heap on the floor. When Inu Taisho's eyes had turned to her, it had taken all of her willpower to stare back with her imitation of Sesshoumaru's frigid look. She thought she had passed whatever test the Western Lord had subjected her to when she saw his expression turn lustful. Contrary to popular belief, Kagome was far from naïve. She could tell what that gleam was as soon as it entered Inu Taisho's eyes. The lord's aura had then turned a sickly maroon, apparently the colour of carnal pleasures.
Shuddering slightly at the thought, Kagome was surprised as a hand entered her line of vision. Following the outstretched arm, she was surprised that it was Sesshoumaru who offered her help. Placing her hand in his, and subconsciously noting how soft his skin was, Kagome allowed herself to be pulled up from her position on the marble floor.
Silently amused at the small nervous breakdown that the miko seemed to be having, Sesshoumaru helped her up. Appearing as stoic as ever, Sesshoumaru turned to Yoshiro who seemed to be as disturbed by Inu Taisho's lust as Kagome. Just as Sesshoumaru was about to address him, the doors of the Great Hall opened again, revealing Inu Taisho in his two-legged form, motioning for Yoshiro to come to him.
The sight of the Western Lord sent chills up Kagome's spine. Quickly taking back Sakura from the arms of the stormy-eyed demon, Kagome maneuvered her semi-free hand and grasped that of Sesshoumaru, dragging him towards some unknown destination, all the while chirping about how the young lord had told her that he wished to speak with her alone.
Arching his delicate eyebrow, Sesshoumaru allowed himself to be dragged in the general direction of the soldier's quarters. Too late did he realize the potential hazard of allowing her to lead him there. And too late did Kagome realize that this was just as bad as staying where Inu Taisho was. She could feel the lustful stares coming from the soldiers that milled around the area and she knew that it was only Sesshoumaru's presence that kept them from acting on their desires.
Deciding to use this situation to his advantage, Sesshoumaru tapped into the priestess' mind.
Using his mind's voice, he spoke to her. Miko, keep you head up and ignore the stares. In five seconds time, flare your aura. Not too much, or they'll see you as a threat, but enough to dissuade them from doing anything... uncouth.
When Sesshoumaru's voice had first appeared in her mind, Kagome began questioning her own sanity. With great difficulty, she kept herself in check and answered, Am I hallucinating? as she turned to look at the amber-eyed demon.
Through sheer will, Sesshoumaru kept his lips from twitching at the miko's bizarre question. Hopefully not, miko. If you were, then we would all be in deep trouble.
With an almost imperceptible nod, Kagome allowed her aura to flare as Sesshoumaru had said. And as he predicted, the moment that the soldiers felt her holy aura, they shied away from her. Breathing a sigh of relief, Kagome questioned the lord beside her through their psychic link.
Lord Sesshoumaru, would it be alright if we went somewhere private where we could talk without any disruptions?
As you wish. There are some things that I need to speak with you about as well.
Sesshoumaru debated whether he should take her to the library or to his private study. The library seemed to be the better choice as the study was Sesshoumaru's sanctum. However, there was less chance of anyone overhearing them in the study. Resisting the urge to growl, Sesshoumaru changed his course and headed for the study.
As they walked, Kagome noticed that the décor of the palace seemed to change quite abruptly. While the previous section had been gaudy and tawdry, the section now seemed elegant and sophisticated. Black and white marble blended together, creating an air of tranquility and cleanliness. The only metal present seemed to be silver, polished and sparkling.
Deciding last minute to make a small detour, Sesshoumaru headed to one of the smaller guest chambers in his wing of the palace. Entering, he motioned for Kagome to lay the child on the bed. A servant appeared behind him as if by magic. Biding the servant to look after the child, Sesshoumaru led the miko out of the room with the assurance that the servant was the one who had cared for him as a pup.
The duo came to a large set of doors, carved from ebony and inlaid with ivory. Sesshoumaru's name in kanji shone brightly from the almost-black wood. Pushing the doors open, the demon bade the miko to enter.
As Kagome stepped through the doors, she was overcome by the simple beauty of what seemed to be a study. A small, almost inaudible, gasp slipped past her lips. The room was completely white, with the exception of a black marble floor. White silks hung from the ceiling, billowing in the small breeze from an open window. The tatami mats too were white, making Kagome wonder how much time was spent on creating this room. Looking to the side, she noticed an exquisite painting of an ethereal youkai, bearing undeniable resemblance to the heir of the Western Lands.
So lost in reverie was Kagome that she did not notice Sesshoumaru come up behind her until he spoke. "She was my mother. The true Lady of the Western Lands."
Sapphire eyes filled with sympathy, Kagome whispered, "I'm so sorry."
Sesshoumaru instantly reverted back to his usual stoic self. "I do not need your pity, miko."
Not being able to take offense, Kagome replied, "I don't pity you. My father died when I was a child. I know what it's like..." Pausing, she added ruefully, "You know, not everyone's out to get you. You should learn how to take comfort in others."
Slightly confused at the audacity of the woman in front of him, Sesshoumaru quickly dismissed it as he realized that he was beginning to think far too much about the miko.
"I believe you had something you wished to say to me, miko."
Sighing, Kagome cringed under the use of the title. "Sesshoumaru-sama, my name is Kagome. I don't call you solely by your title, and I expect the same respect in return."
Smirking slightly at the miko's lack of self-preservation, Sesshoumaru decided to let the insult slide and simply nodded.
"I have a few things that I need to understand, Sesshoumaru-sama," Kagome continued. "First, where will I be sleeping?"
"There is a room beside the one where you deposited Sakura. You will be occupying that room."
"Okay. Um... Eriko said something about training... Who's going to be training me?"
"I believe she asked Yoshiro to perform the task, so I can only assume that he will be your teacher."
Nodding, Kagome hesitated to ask the last question. Seeing her uncertainty, Sesshoumaru said, "Kagome-san, if you have another question, I would appreciate it if you would ask. If not, then I believe that you may return to your quarters."
"Why did you call Inu Taisho by his title? I mean, isn't he your father?" Kagome blurted out in one breath. Seeing Sesshoumaru's undecipherable expression, Kagome quickly tried to make amends. "Forgive me, I shouldn't have asked. It's really personal. Um... I'll be going now." Just as the flustered woman was about to make a mad dash for the door, Sesshoumaru's voice halted all her actions.
"That... thing... in there was not my father. To my knowledge, he died with my mother. What is left is a sad imitation, one that I would never call my father. The real Inu Taisho disappeared a long time ago, Kagome. And I would suggest that you take caution around him. He wants you and he would not be opposed to the idea of taking you by force." Sesshoumaru looked her straight in the eye as he said this, testing, in his own way, her will.
Gesturing that she understood his warning, Kagome smiled at him. Sesshoumaru was close to a state of shock. Not since his mother had someone looked at him without an ulterior motive. Yet here was a woman who smiled freely at him. Shaking himself free of the thoughts, Sesshoumaru rose from the tatami mat, followed by Kagome. Just as he was about to call for a servant to show the miko her room, a frantic Yoshiro burst into the study.
"Sesshoumaru, Inu Taisho's issued an order for me to spy on the happenings in the castle. He said that he would arrange for everyone to believe that I was away on business while I stayed in the castle."
The eyebrow moved up as Sesshoumaru replied, "And your point is?"
Growling in frustration, Yoshiro replied, "That means that I won't be able to teach Kagome-sama how to fight, which means that you're going to have to."
Up until that point, Kagome was quite content in not participating in the conversation. However, upon hearing the latest turn of events, she couldn't help but speak.
Waving her hands in front of her in a platonic gesture, Kagome squeaked out, "NO! No... that's okay... I'll just wait for whenever your mission's over Yoshiro. I mean, Sesshoumaru-sama's way too busy to teach me how to fight. Really, I don't mind waiting."
Sesshoumaru had been thinking along the same lines as Kagome before her outburst. But seeing how nervous the prospect of training with him seemed to her, the demon lord decided that some amusement was needed in his life and she would provide ample.
Turning to Yoshiro, Sesshoumaru ignored the babbling miko. "Very well then. I accept the responsibility." Turning to the miko, he used a clawed finger to shut her gaping mouth. "Come, Kagome-san. I will show you to your room. I suggest you get some rest. Training begins at dawn."
The last comment elicited a small whimper from the miko. Smirking slightly, Sesshoumaru lead her to her quarters. As Kagome closed the door, she slid to the floor for the second time that day.
'Why does this always happen to me?'
The small group, including the still-comatose Sakura, had been summoned to appear before the Western Lord as soon as they had set foot inside the outer gates. The blue-eyed miko had shuddered at the thought of meeting Inuyasha's father. His son was intimidating enough as it is. What would the father be like?
So lost in thought was the young miko that she did not realize their small party had come to a halt. Only after she ran into Yoshiro's back did she notice that they had arrived. If the hallway had rendered her speechless, then the entrance to the Great Hall could take Kagome's voice away completely. Silver shimmered, gold glistened, and diamonds dazzled on the large doors of the Hall. The shape of a crescent moon had been etched in the doors, spanning the size of both doors. Still in awe, Kagome was abruptly shaken from her admiration by Sesshoumaru's terse and frigid voice.
"Miko, do not gawk as if you were a commoner. In order for you to stay in the Western Palace, you must prove your worth to Inu Taisho. While you are under both mine and Yoshiro's protection, we can do nothing if he decides that you cannot stay. Understand?"
Nodding once, Kagome held the shivers that threatened to run down her spine at bay. Yet again, Kagome thought about how different this Sesshoumaru was compared to the one she knew previously. Before she could continue on that train of thought however, the doors swung open, beckoning the quartet to enter.
Taking a deep breath, Kagome steadied herself as the small band walked into the Hall. Holding her head high, the young miko walked down the Hall alongside Yoshiro and Sesshoumaru, calming herself with the knowledge that she was protected by the two. Not bothering to hide her aura, Kagome felt many in the Hall shrink back from her in fear of being purified.
The dais on which Inu Taisho resided came into sight. Much to Kagome's surprise, instead of a demon in humanoid form, Inu Taisho stood there in his demon form, eyes glowing and jaws parted. Remembering what Sesshoumaru had said about staring, Kagome forcefully pushed the awe that she felt at seeing the Western Lord in demon form away.
A nudge from Yoshiro captured Kagome's attention. Turning towards the grey- eyed demon, she took the proffered child. Realizing what was about to happen, Kagome stepped away from the two demons beside her as they began to transform as well. Anxiety hit Kagome like a ton of bricks as she realized how small she seemed against these demons.
Looking up, the miko was awed by the sight of Yoshiro in demon form. A silver crescent moon appeared on his forehead as his body changed to that of a dog. It seemed strange to Kagome that she hadn't noticed the mark before. Chestnut fur sprung from Yoshiro's now canine form.
Suppressing the desire to back away from the transformed demon, Kagome turned her attention to Sesshoumaru. Although she had once seen the young lord in his true form, it was never at this proximity. And at that time, she had been afraid for her life, therefore not taking the time to take in the details.
Sesshoumaru was a more grandiose version of Yoshiro. His figure was significantly larger than that of Yoshiro's. In fact, Kagome though that his size could rival, if not beat, that of Inu Taisho's. The silvery fur on his body gave him an unearthly glow. Kagome noted that his eyes stayed the same amber however, seeing as he wasn't threatened nor in battle.
Mentally berating herself, Kagome focused her attention on the current situation. Slight growls and whimpers were being emitted from the two demons that flanked her. Although she could not understand the sounds that were being made, Kagome could, strangely enough, understand what was being said.
Paying close attention, the miko heard Yoshiro's account of Aki's death. Sesshoumaru remained still until Yoshiro had finished. Then, in commanding tones, he told Inu Taisho of the youki that lingered on Sakura's body, as well as the need for the child and her protector to reside at the Western Palace until said issue is resolved.
As Sesshoumaru spoke, Inu Taisho turned his attention to the child and the miko. The child was quickly dismissed as he ascertained his son's words. The miko, however, interested him to no ends. She did not bow her head as most would have. Instead, her startling blue eyes boldly met his in an arrogant manner. Her figure was pleasing as well, curves in all the right places.
Silently musing, Inu Taisho thought that maybe he needed a break from Mariko. After all, the bitch's constant clinging and incessant whining was becoming increasingly annoying and the perfect opportunity for an affair had just presented itself. His lustful thoughts were cut short as Sesshoumaru issued a warning snarl.
The young lord had seen the look that Inu Taisho was giving the miko before. Sesshoumaru knew that the miko was now in danger of being forced to become a concubine for his father. Choosing to discuss the matter with her later, he fought the urge to wrinkle his nose in disgust as the scent of Inu Taisho's arousal wafted up. Sesshoumaru decided that it was time to end this "conference".
Still in the language of the Inu, Sesshoumaru snarled, "I thank you for your audience, Lord Inu Taisho. I believe that this is all that needed to be discussed." Without waiting for a dismissal, both Yoshiro and Sesshoumaru reverted to their humanoid forms and with the miko and girl in tow, walked out of the Great Hall.
As the doors closed, Kagome slowly slipped out of her bravado, handed Sakura back to Yoshiro, and then ended up a heap on the floor. When Inu Taisho's eyes had turned to her, it had taken all of her willpower to stare back with her imitation of Sesshoumaru's frigid look. She thought she had passed whatever test the Western Lord had subjected her to when she saw his expression turn lustful. Contrary to popular belief, Kagome was far from naïve. She could tell what that gleam was as soon as it entered Inu Taisho's eyes. The lord's aura had then turned a sickly maroon, apparently the colour of carnal pleasures.
Shuddering slightly at the thought, Kagome was surprised as a hand entered her line of vision. Following the outstretched arm, she was surprised that it was Sesshoumaru who offered her help. Placing her hand in his, and subconsciously noting how soft his skin was, Kagome allowed herself to be pulled up from her position on the marble floor.
Silently amused at the small nervous breakdown that the miko seemed to be having, Sesshoumaru helped her up. Appearing as stoic as ever, Sesshoumaru turned to Yoshiro who seemed to be as disturbed by Inu Taisho's lust as Kagome. Just as Sesshoumaru was about to address him, the doors of the Great Hall opened again, revealing Inu Taisho in his two-legged form, motioning for Yoshiro to come to him.
The sight of the Western Lord sent chills up Kagome's spine. Quickly taking back Sakura from the arms of the stormy-eyed demon, Kagome maneuvered her semi-free hand and grasped that of Sesshoumaru, dragging him towards some unknown destination, all the while chirping about how the young lord had told her that he wished to speak with her alone.
Arching his delicate eyebrow, Sesshoumaru allowed himself to be dragged in the general direction of the soldier's quarters. Too late did he realize the potential hazard of allowing her to lead him there. And too late did Kagome realize that this was just as bad as staying where Inu Taisho was. She could feel the lustful stares coming from the soldiers that milled around the area and she knew that it was only Sesshoumaru's presence that kept them from acting on their desires.
Deciding to use this situation to his advantage, Sesshoumaru tapped into the priestess' mind.
Using his mind's voice, he spoke to her. Miko, keep you head up and ignore the stares. In five seconds time, flare your aura. Not too much, or they'll see you as a threat, but enough to dissuade them from doing anything... uncouth.
When Sesshoumaru's voice had first appeared in her mind, Kagome began questioning her own sanity. With great difficulty, she kept herself in check and answered, Am I hallucinating? as she turned to look at the amber-eyed demon.
Through sheer will, Sesshoumaru kept his lips from twitching at the miko's bizarre question. Hopefully not, miko. If you were, then we would all be in deep trouble.
With an almost imperceptible nod, Kagome allowed her aura to flare as Sesshoumaru had said. And as he predicted, the moment that the soldiers felt her holy aura, they shied away from her. Breathing a sigh of relief, Kagome questioned the lord beside her through their psychic link.
Lord Sesshoumaru, would it be alright if we went somewhere private where we could talk without any disruptions?
As you wish. There are some things that I need to speak with you about as well.
Sesshoumaru debated whether he should take her to the library or to his private study. The library seemed to be the better choice as the study was Sesshoumaru's sanctum. However, there was less chance of anyone overhearing them in the study. Resisting the urge to growl, Sesshoumaru changed his course and headed for the study.
As they walked, Kagome noticed that the décor of the palace seemed to change quite abruptly. While the previous section had been gaudy and tawdry, the section now seemed elegant and sophisticated. Black and white marble blended together, creating an air of tranquility and cleanliness. The only metal present seemed to be silver, polished and sparkling.
Deciding last minute to make a small detour, Sesshoumaru headed to one of the smaller guest chambers in his wing of the palace. Entering, he motioned for Kagome to lay the child on the bed. A servant appeared behind him as if by magic. Biding the servant to look after the child, Sesshoumaru led the miko out of the room with the assurance that the servant was the one who had cared for him as a pup.
The duo came to a large set of doors, carved from ebony and inlaid with ivory. Sesshoumaru's name in kanji shone brightly from the almost-black wood. Pushing the doors open, the demon bade the miko to enter.
As Kagome stepped through the doors, she was overcome by the simple beauty of what seemed to be a study. A small, almost inaudible, gasp slipped past her lips. The room was completely white, with the exception of a black marble floor. White silks hung from the ceiling, billowing in the small breeze from an open window. The tatami mats too were white, making Kagome wonder how much time was spent on creating this room. Looking to the side, she noticed an exquisite painting of an ethereal youkai, bearing undeniable resemblance to the heir of the Western Lands.
So lost in reverie was Kagome that she did not notice Sesshoumaru come up behind her until he spoke. "She was my mother. The true Lady of the Western Lands."
Sapphire eyes filled with sympathy, Kagome whispered, "I'm so sorry."
Sesshoumaru instantly reverted back to his usual stoic self. "I do not need your pity, miko."
Not being able to take offense, Kagome replied, "I don't pity you. My father died when I was a child. I know what it's like..." Pausing, she added ruefully, "You know, not everyone's out to get you. You should learn how to take comfort in others."
Slightly confused at the audacity of the woman in front of him, Sesshoumaru quickly dismissed it as he realized that he was beginning to think far too much about the miko.
"I believe you had something you wished to say to me, miko."
Sighing, Kagome cringed under the use of the title. "Sesshoumaru-sama, my name is Kagome. I don't call you solely by your title, and I expect the same respect in return."
Smirking slightly at the miko's lack of self-preservation, Sesshoumaru decided to let the insult slide and simply nodded.
"I have a few things that I need to understand, Sesshoumaru-sama," Kagome continued. "First, where will I be sleeping?"
"There is a room beside the one where you deposited Sakura. You will be occupying that room."
"Okay. Um... Eriko said something about training... Who's going to be training me?"
"I believe she asked Yoshiro to perform the task, so I can only assume that he will be your teacher."
Nodding, Kagome hesitated to ask the last question. Seeing her uncertainty, Sesshoumaru said, "Kagome-san, if you have another question, I would appreciate it if you would ask. If not, then I believe that you may return to your quarters."
"Why did you call Inu Taisho by his title? I mean, isn't he your father?" Kagome blurted out in one breath. Seeing Sesshoumaru's undecipherable expression, Kagome quickly tried to make amends. "Forgive me, I shouldn't have asked. It's really personal. Um... I'll be going now." Just as the flustered woman was about to make a mad dash for the door, Sesshoumaru's voice halted all her actions.
"That... thing... in there was not my father. To my knowledge, he died with my mother. What is left is a sad imitation, one that I would never call my father. The real Inu Taisho disappeared a long time ago, Kagome. And I would suggest that you take caution around him. He wants you and he would not be opposed to the idea of taking you by force." Sesshoumaru looked her straight in the eye as he said this, testing, in his own way, her will.
Gesturing that she understood his warning, Kagome smiled at him. Sesshoumaru was close to a state of shock. Not since his mother had someone looked at him without an ulterior motive. Yet here was a woman who smiled freely at him. Shaking himself free of the thoughts, Sesshoumaru rose from the tatami mat, followed by Kagome. Just as he was about to call for a servant to show the miko her room, a frantic Yoshiro burst into the study.
"Sesshoumaru, Inu Taisho's issued an order for me to spy on the happenings in the castle. He said that he would arrange for everyone to believe that I was away on business while I stayed in the castle."
The eyebrow moved up as Sesshoumaru replied, "And your point is?"
Growling in frustration, Yoshiro replied, "That means that I won't be able to teach Kagome-sama how to fight, which means that you're going to have to."
Up until that point, Kagome was quite content in not participating in the conversation. However, upon hearing the latest turn of events, she couldn't help but speak.
Waving her hands in front of her in a platonic gesture, Kagome squeaked out, "NO! No... that's okay... I'll just wait for whenever your mission's over Yoshiro. I mean, Sesshoumaru-sama's way too busy to teach me how to fight. Really, I don't mind waiting."
Sesshoumaru had been thinking along the same lines as Kagome before her outburst. But seeing how nervous the prospect of training with him seemed to her, the demon lord decided that some amusement was needed in his life and she would provide ample.
Turning to Yoshiro, Sesshoumaru ignored the babbling miko. "Very well then. I accept the responsibility." Turning to the miko, he used a clawed finger to shut her gaping mouth. "Come, Kagome-san. I will show you to your room. I suggest you get some rest. Training begins at dawn."
The last comment elicited a small whimper from the miko. Smirking slightly, Sesshoumaru lead her to her quarters. As Kagome closed the door, she slid to the floor for the second time that day.
'Why does this always happen to me?'