Hello Fireworks and King Cakes

Well loves its 2017 and we are 33 chapters in! You know what that means…time to throw in a wrench and twist this story...again! :D

Chapter 33 has been brought to you by...

Thank you Chapter 32 Reviewers

angeleyes20876 – It was beer and most people don't consider beer to be a trigger consciously. They think of hard liquor so I wanted to just put in the daily conscious effort it takes on her part to fight against her habit without making a big deal out of the moment. Temptation is everywhere even by those that have good intentions.

I agree! I hope I made it clear how Kagome and Kikyo handle things. Both are strong willed in their own way and get results. No way is better than the other…it's just a matter of circumstance and preference. I hope you enjoy this twist of a chapter!

Nyght Elf – The contract locked him in place but his need to satiate his instincts (Apex) coupled with his moral duty to the throne is what got him into creating a relationship with Kaguya in the first place. (See Chapter 11: Simmer) Normally as I explained demons are complacent about the Promise Contract as they don't regret their selections in a full blooded mate. Sesshomaru however does regret it but cannot escape. I hope that explains things. I even went back in this chapter to refresh the information just in case. I don't want to confuse folks! (Let me know if there is a discrepancy!)

Super cool! I'll go right now after I update to read what you got! And just keep working on it. Look at my other work…I did not go back and fix them. You can clearly see the growth I have done over the years from my teens to adulthood. Just keep writing and try your best! Xoxoxoxo!

ObsessiveCompulsiveReading – Thank you love! I'm so happy to welcome you aboard to my soap opera! You are super sweet! Yes I try to make this as realistic as possible! I hope to not disappoint. Prepare for twists and turns!

Tai – Lol he liked that color red. The question is what he plans on doing with that red pain color that he took! Yes I'm about read for Kaguya to make a move too!

Gw2505 – Awe well thank you for finding time to respond! I really do appreciate it. Oh they will have their day! It's coming for sure! Thank you so very much! I'm trying my best to keep them in character. As for giving Inuyasha more air time…all things come in due time.

Youkai55 – Apparently he wasn't as intrigued in painting until Kikyo painted before him. I regret not writing that into a scene…but now I'm thinking of ways to get that brush involved up someone's behind!

Shiori got away with it from her father but her mother was disappointed. Inutashio explained his stance on it. Izayoi is trying to keep the peace but she is failing…lol

Danielle596 - .O you caught on to that…hehehehe! Wait and see!

Gives over the cookie! - Lol *insert sailor moon intro music here*

I wanted to say so much here but I can't otherwise Id ruin the chapters coming up! So….I agree to everything you said! Kaguya is really showing her ass right now but I suppose pride and gluttony will do that to you.

kagomeLove2 – lol this story is always changing so… just note that everyone will get air time but in a natural way where the story flows organically. The last thing I want to do is force a scene that isn't realistic or imperative to the plot of the story.

Sesshomaru cannot, he is stuck between a rock and hard place. Our present society rules are at play along with those of demonic society so he literally has to watch his steps or risk losing everything.

And pride is clearly the Tashio sin…but just how far will it take them…hope you enjoy this next chapter!

Thank you Chapter 32 Follower

arinamachan

ice kitty queen

WatLiesBeneath

ObsessiveCompulsiveReading

yujiyasha

WanderingBlossom

Thank you Chapter 33 Fav

arinamachan

ice kitty queen

Xx Adorned by love xX

ObsessiveCompulsiveReading

yujiyasha

WanderingBlossom

dancing4life

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Chapter 33: Coffee and Cognac

Shippo was nervous as he sat on the express train next to an excited Shiori that early morning. The chill in the air was noted along with the stale scent of the metal box that moved along the metro rails holding the morning travelers. Their bodies rocked a bit as they rode out of the heart of Paris towards his flat. His mind was trying to process exactly what had happened while keeping a watchful eye on a hyper Shiori who was talking rather adamantly to a few passengers about anything they requested. The night before was rather strange as he had just exited the restaurant when he received a frantic text from Shiori asking that he stop by if possible. He had classes the next day so normally he would opt to just go home so he could get some studying in. When he arrived to her condo, he was barreled in the chest with her small body along with a sputter of words explaining her extreme dislike for her brother's fiancé and the unfair rules of society. Her words began to shift to other topics and the stress that corrupted her body was beginning to show the longer they stood in her living room. Her strong and fearless resolve was beginning to crumble before him. In a way, Shiori reminded him much of Kagome. Both ladies were always trying to keep it all together while pushing their stress and worries down until it manifested in some other manner. Shippo let her rant, never cutting her off while he made them both a light dinner and laid with her body tucked against his into the night. Needless to say that night he didn't get any studying done and worried the following morning about his classes in silence.

He had woken with a jolt in the early hours of the morning when the sky was still dark. He stressed that he needed to get home so he could get his things so he could be on time for his lessons. His school had a strict late policy and tardiness unless proven by emergency was not tolerated. Shippo began on a rant of his own about how he couldn't wait to test out and graduate, that is if the headmaster didn't set him up to fail. Shiori had woken up and saw the tables had turned as Shippo bounced around her room trying to prioritize his life in five minutes in a state of induced panic. She watched in a lethargic daze as he threw on his wrinkled clothes while muttering his fears of getting the boot for being late to school. He revealed to her that his headmaster thought him to be arrogant because of his coveted position at Kagome's restaurant. Nothing he did seemed to please the man. Shippo went on about how the man had it out for him since day one. She watched humorously never leaving the bed as he pulled one leg in his dark wash jeans while going to reach for his toothbrush that he left at her place. His wild hair looked like fire on his head and his tail was very fuzzy revealing his stressed state. Before he could finish anything, Shiori reached for his hand and pulled him back to bed while explain the plan she had just created to solve his problems. Before he could argue with her, she presented her case in a sly and effective manner that turned his body into liquid lava and his mind into mush.

Shippo sat hunched in his cold seat feeling relaxed and yet nervous as the sunrays slowly rose into the sky behind the windows of the express train. His body was functioning on a high he couldn't process due to Shiori's hand staying constantly connected to his. Shiori slowly leaned over his body to talk to anyone and everyone on the morning train. His arm was wrapped around her waist protectively unsure if this really was a good idea. She had talked him into taking the early train home while she called her family's driver to pick them up from his home to take them back into the city. It was faster and he would have time to gather his things and properly do his morning routine without rushing so much. Despite these reasons she gave, he knew this was just an excuse for her to see his place as she had been putting it off long enough for her taste.

Everyone stared at them on the train with many asking questions and taking pictures with their phones. Pens were being passed as requests for her autograph were thrown among the early commuters that were normally silent in the mornings. Shiori happily obliged and even signed three little girls backpacks calling them her royal princess friends in training. His ears nearly bled at their excited high squeals reaching decibels he didn't know existed. Shippo was nervous about how she would be treated or what would happen to them as they used public transportation. He thought about concealing her in his oversized hoodie to hide her identity but what he should have gotten her was a black wig and brown contacts. Everyone knew who she was because of her strange and infamous royal Tashio features. Shiori certainly did not want to hide herself, expressing her pride and ability to handle herself should they find themselves in a precarious situation. She also threw in for good measure that she trusted him to take good care of her as this was what boyfriends did. This shut him up and left him in a contented daze due to the official verbal label she addressed him as for the first time.

Shippo looked to the young demoness wearing blue jeans and a white peplum shirt with soft white Toms on her feet. She covered her arms with a light denim jacket to fight against the chill of fall that had settled upon France. Her long silver hair was pulled into a loose ponytail with light makeup, giving her interpretation of his request called "dressing down". She pushed her small black pocketbook between them for safety while listening intently to the human across from her go on about some art community center that needed a breath of fresh air. The conversations had changed with Shiori excitedly speaking with everyone and asking them to share their stories with her. The train was getting crowded as more people got on and very few got off.

Their confused expressions didn't go unnoticed. Some humans obviously those against demons stayed away while others mingled with the crowd. There were curious patrons that boldly asked why she was riding the morning express train out of the city and question who he was to her. Shippo tried to take away his hand but Shiori wouldn't let him go. She boldly just stood up and sat on his lap in front of all the strangers happily announcing that he was her boyfriend. His face was red with embarrassment and growing darker each time she boldly and loudly stated where they were going and why they were going there. She was just too honest at times and he knew they were being judged.

Why would a royal princess be riding the express eight am train out south towards the banlieues?

Their eyes all looked to him as she gave in detail about his "extraordinary" talent and "hard work" that he gives to his cooking craft. Questions turned to him next catching him off guard which Shiori was happy to step in an answer for him when he couldn't find the words to express himself. Her praise of him was professed loudly to the sea of people sardined inside their train. She was so honest. By the end of the forty five minute ride, he was sure everyone in his burrow knew he was in culinary school, working at the famed Shikon Bistro as an apprentice, and dating the Princess of France. Strangers gave him words of encouragement and even asked for his picture and autograph. Congratulations were passed to him from men and women that got off and got on the train. Some gave him advice and motivation to continue pushing through the late nights, stressful times, worrisome financial matters, and long commutes to reach his goals. Everyone agreed with Shiori that he was worth something by listening to his tale repeated by the princess.

Finally they had reached their stop and Shiori got off holding onto him with camera phones and waves following them out of the cart. She gave them a very royal hand wave and politely told them all how wonderful they were. Shiori was even so bold to hug a few people and shake hands as they too gave her encouragement to continue to do what she loved and maintain her connection with the people. They bowed to her…some more dramatic than others. They handed them business cards and numbers telling them if they needed things from roof repairs to violin lessons to give them a call. Shiori happily stuck every one of them in her purse with the clear intention to make use of some of those offers. Shippo didn't believe it until he saw it for himself. It was like by her taking the public transit with the working class going out into the lesser parts, she had become Princess Diana's reincarnate or something. She held onto his hand as he led her up the stairs and out of the station. He could feel his hands grow sweaty because of his nerves as it donned on him that they were almost to his little place. He couldn't believe what had possessed him to go through with her request. His place was small. It was a hole in the wall that he called a flat. She would really see it. She would really see him. What he had to offer her.

Shiori was excited as her feet moved alongside Shippo's against the pavement. People outside of the city were so much more friendly, honest, and louder that those she knew in the city. She loved it. She loved them! She even got names and addresses so she could send out invitations to her gala. She looked to Shippo's hand feeling the heat growing from his hold. She knew he was nervous about his place despite him never saying it. She didn't understand why. She was sure it was just fine and besides…it was his. She would be in his space and surrounded by everything that was the fiery, talented, normally playful trickster that was her boyfriend.

They stepped out of the station into the early sun and Shiori looked around, taking in her new environment. She looked up to see a few of the old architectural buildings mixed with that of the block style housing. A big open market was outside in the square with the people readily building back up their stalls to start another early day. Trucks of produce and carts making coffee and croissants for the early risers were already in production with lines of customers waiting for service. Shippo's hand tightened around hers and she held on while looking at everyone and everything. The streets were crowded with cars and the sidewalks were filled with little children and their book bags ready to start another day. It was quite a diverse group of people pulling their jackets closer feeling the cold air. Shiori had a million questions running through her head at the moment. A few people stopped in midstride to gawk openly at what they were seeing. Shiori grabbed his hand to force him to a stop and he did so. She directed him towards the market where she looked at everyone's wares.

Shippo smiled at her excited disposition. Shiori knew they needed to get to his place ASAP but she couldn't help herself. The market looked so lively with people buying their groceries and breakfast before running off to the trains or their bikes. He took her to a coffee stand that he frequented and got them both a strawberry Danish and coffee. The people at the stall were curious as they seemed to recognize Shiori but not sure where from. This pleased Shiori as she just shrugged her shoulders pretending to be just a normal customer.

Shiori was so excited at how the morning had played out. She found her morning to be filled with adventure and inspiration from all the people that she saw and came across. She had spotted quite a few fashion finds that gave her some ideas as well. She was so happy to have made the decision to come with Shippo to his flat. Her eyes looked to their entwined fingers where she could feel his hands becoming slippery. She looked up at Shippo sensing his anxiety and she held his hand comfortingly. They continued walking down streets and turning corners passing by a few beggars and homeless fellows. She frowned as they walked by noticing the neighborhood got a little bit more rugged. She weaved with him through the streets and sidewalks until they came to a cross bridge that sat over a long river. She looked to see elderly and young people sitting on the edges enjoying the morning sun and the company of others following the pathways on both sides leading to wherever. He took her to the side of a cobble building near the edge that looked as if it was once someone's home that had been split into two. They walked around until they came to metal black stairs. He led her up the stairs to the second floor where they reached their landing. Shiori took their food and drinks in her hands while he fished for his keys.

"It's not much…" Shippo reached into his pocket and fumbled with his keys feeling his nerves creep up on him. The book bag on his back felt like weights despite the lack of books inside of them. His hands were shaking terribly now as he lifted them to the keyhole.

Shiori shifted her cup and the bag of goods into one hand and used the other to cover his. Bright green eyes flashed at her with fear clearly laced within them. "Everything will be fine. Unless you have a dead body inside?" She smirked jokingly reminding him much of Inuyasha in that moment.

Shippo swallowed before finally pushing the key inside the lock and turning. At the sound of the click, his heart nearly jumped into his mouth. He pushed the door open and let out the air he was holding realizing there was no going back. He didn't know if he should allow her to enter first out of respect or if he should enter first because of safety. However, Shiori decided for them both and just waltzed in clearly excited. Immediately he reached to cut on the lights and closed the door behind them.

Shiori maintained her smile as she looked around the one room flat. It was a little dark given the low lighting inside his flat and all the windows had the curtains pulled shut blocking the sun from outside. Her smile grew bright to see it wasn't bad at all. His flat was rectangular in size which made it seem big despite the reality. The ceiling was lower than expected. Shippo was so tall his head was right underneath it. There was a kitchen nook across from her with a small stove housing two gas burners and a little wooden counter. She was glad he cooked at her place. His stove looked like he could barely do much. A metal pantry stood jammed pack with spices, ingredients, and other things. Pots and pans were sitting nearby in a box. His fridge was about the size of her night stand in her bedroom. A small wooden coffee table and a little black sofa were in the middle covered in books, papers, and pictures of dishes. He had a bookshelf of tons of pictures of memories, art supplies, random items, and books on top of books stacked in various manners. The bathroom was near the back. In the far corner was a bed with crazy colored sheets and brown pelts. Something large and feathered sat securely on the edge of the bed. Next over was a very small closet that held no door, allowing anyone to see the makeshift metal racks serving as dressers and hangers for his clothes.

She watched as Shippo ran about picking up little things off the floor and opening windows to allow fresh air and sunlight to filter inside. As the light came in, the space looked so bright and inviting. Shiori set their purchases in the kitchen on the small counter and stood looking around in awe. Her fingers brushed his heavily used seasonings knowing which ones he liked to use the most. Her nose twitched from the scent of spices and fox magic. His scent was heavy and coated everything giving her a warm fuzzy feeling. This place was where he spent much of his time and it showed. It felt so inviting here unlike her apartment in the heart of Paris.

She walked further into the big room towards the bookshelf to look at all the things he had. It was covered in random items to the point where it began to overflow. Her hand touched a spinning top and she smiled looking at the child's toy. She picked it up carefully feeling the weight of it in her hand before placing it down back in its spot. She looked over to see a bag of colorful bowls and pottery that was wrapped in symmetrical red and white cloth. An old mortar and pestle sat nearby next to a set of worn brown moose skin moccasins. Some ceremonial clothing was nailed to the wall nearby and she reached out to glide her fingers through the fringes of the indigenous piece that seemed to be very important to him. His space was more than just a representation of himself, she could help but feel it was also sacred.

She moved over to study the many pictures of people and fox demons everywhere. Shiori saw pictures of his many fox cousins, friends, and parents. In all of them he either wore no shirt or wore a fur vest that covered him along with loose pants. She saw pictures of horses running about in fields free of saddles and reigns. There were a few with him dressed in his ceremony attire in the middle of a ceremony or dance with a face of pure concentration. Shiori was pleasantly surprised to see some taped to the wall of him cooking over a fire pit with the men. Many smiling faces were around him with encouragement. She moved over and saw one that looked positively cute. He was small with no shirt on playing in a river with a bright small bushy tail behind him. His smile was wide and bright as he held up a fish in his hands to the camera. "Shippo!" She exclaimed.

Shippo had just finished putting his class notes and books in his backpack when he looked up to see what she was holding. He zipped his backpack closed and walked over to see the photo that brought her so much joy. He blushed at the old memory that was captivated in black and white. The original photo was taken years ago. His photo was just a replica that modern technology was able to immortalize. In the photo was a much younger version of him back when his mother used to call him her little warrior. His toothy smile was bright with accomplishment in his eyes. His father had taken the picture of him and was very proud in his first catch from the local creek. "Yeah…that's me." He said rubbing his fingers through his hair. "My dad took that photo. He said it was the beginnings of becoming a proud male of our tribe." He explained pointing to the small fish he captured with his bare claws. "A man that can fish for himself will eat for a lifetime."

"That's beautiful Shippo. I bet your dad is really proud of you!" She spoke reaching out to touch the visual of his younger self. She continued to scan the room looking around in awe at the fabrics and artifacts that represented the fox demon.

Shippo said nothing but moved away to clean up the small table so she could eat and drink her coffee. He cleaned hurriedly while staying mindful of his time. He needed to shower and gather his things for class. His nerves were still frazzled as he listened intensely to the small sighs and noises she made while exploring his tiny space. He thought it was small before with just him inside but with the two of them in his flat it looked cramped. He gazed around the room dropping his hands to his side catching Shiori's attention. "I'm going to shower and I'll be right back ok!"

Shiori didn't turn around but just waved him off. Her hands had dug into the shelf and started pulling out books and pictures. Shippo hesitated for a moment before he went over to his closet and pulled out his clothes. Looking over one last time, he quickly made his way to the bathroom and closed the door. His body went on autopilot with the intentions of taking a quick shower. His mind stayed focus on the woman just beyond the door that was going on a personal exploration of his flat as if it was an archeological dig of some lost world. The spray of the cold water hit him, making him jump in shock. He had forgotten to give the water time to warm before hopping in. Shippo braced himself against the cold tile of the shower wall trying not fight the shiver that was coming from the base of his tail and up his spine. Gradually, the water began to heat and he began the quick washing of his body leaving his mind free to run wild again. His ears strained to listen beyond the water to hear her mumble and gasp. Curiosity flooded him because of the growing desire to know what was causing such sounds.

The noises she was making were ones of joy but he couldn't understand why. He didn't know what she found so fascinating. He didn't have much. He didn't have expensive art hanging on the walls or gifts given by famous relatives and the Pope. His furniture wasn't new but given by his landlady who owned the old home. He had built everything else himself. Nothing in his flat was posh or anything to gawk at so…why was she so interested?

Maybe she feels sorry for me?

She is trying her best to seem like it doesn't bother her.

You're a nobody and now she sees it.

You're such an idiot!

"Idiot!" He whispered harshly tilting his head up towards the onslaught of the spray allowing the hot water to beat upon his face and sting his open eyes. Shippo gripped his face and ran his hand down the sides rubbing angrily before quickly moving on the shampoo his hair and get out. He irritably scrubbed his hair and body before taking the shower nozzle and rinsing himself off as quickly as he could. He glared at the intensified redness of his flesh from the harsh water temperature that he didn't feel due to his mind running rampant. Droplets dripped from his long wet reddish brown hair and lean slender body onto the white tub below. He glared at his open palms before side eyeing the door with caution. Part of him didn't want to go back out there to face her. To face her angry words that she was sure to spew at him. Shiori could be verbally aggressive and he was sure she would give him an earful of exactly what she wanted to say to him.

He turned off the water and went through his normal morning routine while drying himself off. He threw on his clothes and grimaced at how wrinkled they were compared to Shiori's pressed attire. Shippo sighed heavily no longer hearing her move but could make out the turn of pages. He looked up into the mirror and used his hand to wipe the fog that covered it due to the heated moisture from his shower. His reflection showed himself in his bathroom mirror that was holding on by three nails and lots of black duct tape. He gave himself a good look about himself with sharp claws combing back his damp hair. There was nothing else he could do to himself. His time had run out.

Gathering his courage he grabbed his dirty clothes before going out into his apartment. He held his breath needing to just say something that was sitting on his chest. He looked around and didn't see anyone. He took a cautious step forward and turned his head to the side to see Shiori had moved to sit in the middle of his bed with a cookbook open seemingly reading with interest. Their coffee cups were seated on his little nightstand next to their Danishes. He stilled for a moment admiring the picturesque look of the beautiful demoness seated in the middle of his colorful sheets given to him by his tribal family and pelts from his successes. The sunlight shined through the window highlighting the speckles of dust that looking like glitter forming around her as she flipped the pages of the book in her hand with a light smile upon her face.

Shiori looked up at him then and couldn't fight the big grin that overcame her facial features. He looked so handsome to her and she wished he could skip classes that day. She didn't have to be in the office until later so she could have a little fun. Shiori loved what she did but the constant interruptions and people always calling, rambling, and requests were driving her crazy. Kikyo was able to keep the balance out of fear. She used what Shiori thought were bitch tactics to keep the peace the among Vogue Paris company and among designers thinking that they could push themselves onto the front pages. Meaning, she threatened once in a companywide email of a potential demotion or job loss at moment's notice if any employee was found incompetent to do their assignments. As for designers, she made them come to the office and sit in the lobby until she was ready to deal with them. And if Kikyo wasn't in a good mood, she would advise her not to go to any of the designer events and even reconsider the designer's place within the magazine. Needless to say, the employees feared her and the designers stalked around like sharks.

When Kikyo was not in the office with her, it turned into circus. When Kikyo was there to help her, the panic seemed to simmer beneath the surface waiting for the moment Kikyo stepped out for lunch. Shiori was not like Kikyo. She couldn't just dangle people's jobs and ambitions like that. She wasn't such a mean girl. But she was starting to believe she might have to be if she was to do her job and get respect from her Alpha. The pressure had turned up a bit and the next month was going to be horrific. Shiori was feeling a lot of pressure as Paris fashion week approached along with her debut of her new collection. She still had to figure out time to work on another piece. Everything had to be perfect yet it seemed like the universe was working against her. The only thing that calmed her down was the few stolen moments she had with Shippo. She looked back at the cookbook in her hands before flipping it over and holding up for him to see. "I found the best cook book ever! See it has pictures!"

Shippo walked over to his bed and sat down tossing his clothes into his bin. He leaned over to look at the book that she had and couldn't help the laugh that burst from his lips. He reached out and turned it over to put back in her lap before flipping to the author's notes in the front. "This is an American children's cookbook that one of my little cousins sent me as a Christmas gift. He thought the pictures would help me do good in school." He laughed as Shiori protectively smoothed the pages out.

"Well he is a clever boy! The pictures help a lot you know! My cake did not look like this when I stuck it into the oven…remember?" She said pointing to the step by step visual of baking a vanilla cake from scratch. Hers had come from the box yet somehow she went wrong and she never understood where. It wasn't her fault though. Shippo was exceptionally distracting that evening so she felt like that attempt didn't count.

Shippo smirked remembering indeed the evening she tried something new. She wanted to bake a cake. She would have been successful too if she just added the water. But then again…she wasn't exactly focused to remember to do so. He leaned down and grabbed his socks, attempting to pull the rest of him together for the long day ahead of him. He stood up from his bed and went to his closet to retrieve his clean chef's uniform and placed it into its plastic protective cover.

"Can I borrow this?"

Shippo turned to look at her hold the book in her lap. He nodded before he even processed her request mentally. She happily hugged the book to her chest and smiled to him. "I can do this! Don't worry! It will be safe with me." She pledged, flipping the pages excitedly already picking out things she wanted to try.

"You don't have to try so hard."

"With cooking?" Shiori gazed at Shippo with raised eyebrows as he looked at his closet.

"No." He said pointing to his old couch and worn bookcase. "I know it isn't the best. You don't have to pretend you're cool with it."

Shiori looked around to see what he was talking about before it donned on her what he was insinuating. She frowned looking him over before closing the book and gently putting it to the side of her. She crawled over his thick colored sheets to his side. Without care, she moved to straddle his hips. Her arms lifted around his neck as she looked at him with her bright eyes. "You're right. I'm not cool with it." Before he could look away she leaned forward and nuzzled his cheek. "I absolutely love it and I'm upset I haven't seen it soon enough."

Shippo's eyes were wide with uncertainty as he looked at her, searching for truth and lies. Her aura was bright and her scent spoke of happiness. His lips quirked to the side as his thoughts ran a mile a minute. "Really?"

Shiori leaned forward and kissed his lips chastely before pulling back to look at him. Her hands reached to his hair and she ran her fingers through his wild mane. "Of course! And we are coming back tonight! I want to ask you about your family and friends back home." She said laughing at his expression before her phone rang in her purse. "That must be our ride!" She sung moving off of him and rushing to her purse on the small table. She dug inside and looked at the name on her phone and nodded before taking something out.

Shippo watched humorously as she held up her toothbrush in triumph and rushed to his bathroom. He watched as she placed it inside his little holder next to his and rushed back grabbing their coffees and Danishes. "If we leave now, you will have plenty of time before your class starts! He's going to drop us off into the city but we will have to walk the rest of the way to beat traffic."

Shippo smiled and grabbed his worn black backpack, lifting the heavy weight back onto him and holding his uniform securely over his arm. He watched Shiori toss on her purse while trying to balance everything in her hands. "Shiori?"

The young demoness spun around before reaching for the lights. Her eyebrow raised in the same fashion of her older brother. "Hn?

He walked over and reached for the cookbook, placing it in his bag to hold until they got to the city. He reached for his coffee which was warm now. Shiori watched him silently before she was kissed hard on her lips before he stepped away around her to get the door leaving her standing there a little dazed. He opened the door wide and cut off the lights. Shippo began to usher her out as if she was slowing them down. "Come on! You're wasting time!"

Shiori rolled her eyes and hit him lightly on the abdomen on her way out. "Its your fault." She mumbled with a grinning fox behind her.

(1 New Message)

"Hm…" Sesshomaru questioned looking at the screen of his phone in a corner with a leaned against the large window looking out at the bustling city that was known to beat passionately for lovers of all ages. The sun was high and thick clouds moved about bringing on the days when Paris would look a bit muggy. His left hand massaged a glass of cognac that he found to do nothing for his growing irritability while his right strolled through the two messages he received. He used his many years of battle expertise to tune out everyone in the room around him. The noise dimmed and all the scents began to vanish with only the few he focused on. His gaze went from the rooftops of Paris to his white cuffs before he caught his reflection in his glass. His irises were darkened and rimmed in a pink line. With a sigh, he exhaled and focused on bringing calm to himself.

Like a fool he had made a presumption about his predicament and had been proven wrong. He certainly didn't wish to sire a pup with the demoness like what he had thought was the cause of his Apex condition. The symptoms of his Apex had come back with a raging vengeance the previous night due to his rise in antagonism and irritation with Kaguya the more she spoke about their relationship. How the woman managed to twist everything onto the focus of her person baffled him yet he hoped that Shiori's harsh words would cause Kaguya to break their relationship. Kaguya had went on a rant well into the night about how everyone was conspiring against her. Her paranoia paired with her own narcissism was anything but attractive. It took everything within him not to reach through her chest and rip her beating heart out of her body and toss her into a dumpster somewhere. Shiori's words empowered the enraged demoness. She seemed to be set to prove that she was stronger and resilient against her foes as she began immediately contacting her parents and telling them everything despite his wishes. Of course that put a distaste for his sister in their mouths and he wagered even Kagome would have a target on her back now. Kaguya was even more pressed to go forward with the wedding, placing in stone the wedding date set for early December and going forward with whatever plans her mother was creating. This pushed his anger onto higher levels. His claws were permanently extended into sharp deadly talons due to his feral temperament just beneath the surface of his skin.

It was proving more and more difficult to control his Apex nature with each wave that came about. Gone were his plans to mate and sire a pup to satisfy nature's will and continue his illustrious full-blooded demon legacy to the throne. He refused to give Kaguya the privilege to even hold his seed in her womb. The push to knot inside of a woman was strong but he would endure until he found relief on his terms with a trustworthy female. He certainly would not make the mistake to knot inside the atrocious demoness constantly proving to him the error of his ways. He had once casted judgement on his best friend Hoshi for his choices of defying the world that they grew up in. Hoshi followed his own wishes and stood on his own feet by mating the woman he desired above life itself. A human woman. Sesshomaru lifted his drink to his lips and took a large sip of his drink at the thought.

But slowly as time ticked away…he began to understand him. The rules that governed high demon society and ensured the longevity of pure demon blood lines were thought to be what separated the riff-raff from high society. But it was nothing more than a mechanism for haughty demons to keep control out of fear that their kind would vanish due to the overpopulation of the human faction. It benefitted him very little if he was to look at the big picture. His child would grow within a meaningless relationship, as he cared for Kaguya as much as one cared for trash. His trust and faith in Kaguya was none existent. Even his parents had trust and respect for each other…even to this day. His father would still protect his mother even if she explicitly asked him not to interfere in her business just like she would do for him. He and Kaguya did not have that…and he certainly would never have it for her. This he knew.

Now he was facing new problems with every rise and fall of the moon. He understood he would have to find a woman trustworthy to share his bed for a night in order for him to be free of his body's betrayal. The female would have to be silent about it until the contract was broken. But most demonesses he bedded in this current age were treacherous without the help of a legal document keeping their silence. He could not be caught violating his Promise Contract otherwise the Utomi's would immediately snatch for his wealth like starved animals. There was the potential of a pregnancy that females would use to trap him if he wasn't too careful as well. All of these reasons are why he had refrained from seeking pleasure elsewhere which was proving to be his downfall.

Sesshomaru turned his head at the sound of Kaguya's high pitch squeal that grated on the last bunch of nerves he had. He watched as she pointed excitedly to the new fabric that their planner was showing off to her and her mother claiming its grand creation in the heart of Italy. He tore his gaze away to look back out of the window with frustration. Her current elated state was a far cry from her mood last night. She was upset and angry which then led to him having to physically prove that he held attraction for her which was far from the truth. Each night that he had to spend with her was a torture worthy of hell. It was getting harder and harder to reach an orgasm despite the position he took to mount her an avoid looking at her face or feeling her touch.

Last night, he began working his fingers to tire her out relentlessly so she would be too caught up to think. The arousal in him was only brought on by the visceral recognition of scenting an alacritous female's pheromones. Is blood warmed and sweat permeated his skin. Kaguya was stuck in her own fantasy as she easily gave herself to him, performing sexual acts that he would much rather enjoy from a two dollar street walker than her. When he found her to be at her brink, he entered her harshly uncaring of the needs of her body to adjust and pounded his frustrations into her body from behind. His claws dug into her hips and blood coated his fingers bringing him into a border blood lust. It wasn't long at all before she gripped the sheets and quivered beneath him practically screaming her orgasm that was mixed between tones of pleasure and pain. He stayed stiff watching as she rode out the waves of her pleasure while he took care of himself as quickly as possible to avoid any conversation with her. He had ejaculated but this time it was on their sheets as his body fought the tug of war between procreation and disgust for the act. He did not want to lay his body next to hers and enjoy her flesh upon him. He knew soon he would not be able to cum at all despite the mundane blasted images he had to arouse to finish. Everything inside of him was rejecting Kaguya knowing deep inside that she was not even worthy of a concubine's status. Oh how he missed the older eras when such measures were appropriate.

As a result his frustrations were mounting. He did not want a child, he just wanted release. Instinct any day now would put him on a mission to find any other suitable woman to knot inside so he could release his potent seed into her womb until her uterus overflowed with his semen.

How long would this last?

He knew not. His father said his height of his own Apex had come and gone with the use of his barren concubines until finally one year he was ready to indulge in his instincts and laid with his Alpha. Apexing was different for every demon male. Some never had it in their life and others had it normally around the peak of their adulthood. Some Apex times would go away after just one night shared in bed with a female. Other demons could only find relief in their chosen mate's body. Either way, he knew for certain that he would need to find a trustworthy woman that he somewhat respected otherwise he would soon break.

Sesshomaru closed his eyes tightly as the sounds of the three women behind him were going on about the grand venue he was currently standing in. He thought Kaguya would have the ceremony in China or Japan but he was mistaken. Kaguya's mother thought it was pertinent that they have the wedding in France claiming that they were showing respect to his family and legacy. But he knew this was just a big entrance for Kaguya and their way of making a statement of the growing power the Utomi family now had. His golden eyes looked up at the high vintage ceilings and hand painted décor that was all around the amphitheater meant to make a statement at the time as being a place devoted to the arts. He had come here many times with his father and family to listen to famous women and men in history play for the royal court before the revolution. The place was being redesigned now and he found his instincts to be on edge with every drag of the devilish pen announcing the finality of another decision. He blew against the glass watching his breath fog the window before vanishing slowly.

He vaguely listened to the number of guests that was selected to attend his upcoming nuptials or as he saw it…his fate before the dreaded guillotine. In a matter of hours, the customized invitations they were working on were sent out with more in production. His mind worked thinking of ways to buy more time while he pushed Kaguya more and more to her breaking point. It seemed in his attempt to best the demoness and her leeching parents, time worked against him. So much so that he was forced to push his own family doctrine to the courts to ensure that at least nothing of his family's estate would be touched. In short, he had denounced his inheritance to avoid their claws getting their hands on anything if he was to just break the marriage. His father was sure to find out and go through the roof when he realized what he had done. But this was for the best. Now he had to just find a way to protect his restaurant and large fortune he actually worked for. But that would take more time and he was running out of the precious commodity. His claws clutched his glass so hard he could hear the cracking noise in his sensitive ears.

He was so close to victory. He had waited and it seemed his patience was paying off. He received a message from Kikyo requesting to speak to him about something important in private. So imperative, that it required his presence and absolute secrecy. Sesshomaru knew it pertained to Kaguya and his blood boiled with excitement and resentment wondering what the demoness could have done. Slowly but surely Kaguya was burying herself in a deeper hole. Every tantrum, lie, and deceitful act from her and her family was documented and noted. The press began spinning stories in his favor as he remained silent telling the world of their rocky relationship. He just had to be careful as the press also showed pictures of him spending time with Kagome and Rin. Kaguya could easily use that in court, making up lies that he was seeing someone else behind his back. Of course, with Rin being in the picture the Youkai Council would believe it knowing his friendship with her late father. He just needed something else against her. Something strong to levy that the match would be unacceptable. So much so that the court would break the Promise Contract as that was the only way he would get out of the engagement without losing his hard earned legacy. But also, he had to protect Rin and Kagome from the fallout that was sure to drag them into the crossfire somehow; which is why he could not leave his current activity with the annoying group behind him.

Sesshomaru sighed feeling his phone buzz again as a reminder of the opened messages. Seeing the number, he opened the first message.

Reschedule. I'm busy with Kimi.

Sesshomaru narrowed his gaze at the number and the finality of the statement coming from the older miko sister. He wanted to know what she had to offer him that had to be spoken in a private conversation. Her urgency piqued his curiosity yet she was infuriatingly pushing their time back. She was the one so desperately trying to meetup with him yet here she was blowing him off for his mother. His irritation grew to new heights and his aura was straining against his control. When he saw the onna, he was going to rip her throat out for her actions. He may not be able to take his aggression out just yet upon Kaguya but Kikyo was another story. She wouldn't be missed...much.

A small spider crawled before him on the stained glass of the window making itself known. Sesshomaru watched the small thing move about almost tauntingly before his gaze before scurrying away. A shift in the energy in the room was felt that had Sesshomaru pausing in thought. He tucked his phone into his pocket before looking out the window curiously. He felt the presence of a powerful demon and smirked as recognition filled him. Everyone in the room tensed except for Sesshomaru who turned away from the glass window to look over towards the main double doors. The women twisted in their seats glaring at the unwanted visitor releasing their own auras as to prepare for a possible brawl between the dominant males. An eyebrow arched and a deadly smirk came to Sesshomaru's lips as he turned to face the tall demon strolling casually inside the large hall. The air in the room became frigid. The happiness in the room sucked out of the hall in seconds with nothing but a dreadful sensation left. Sesshomaru released his aura and pushed against the demon as the thick scent of miasma began to flow in subtle waves. Sesshomaru moved to sit his glass on the window's edge before threateningly baring his talons at the demon.

"You crawled out of your barrier, finally?" Sesshomaru asked the ominous demon male that approaching in an all-black suit with his long black hair hanging behind him. Red eyes stared humorously at the scene before him as he seemed genuinely entertained at what he stumbled upon. His features according to the many women he kept around were striking and handsome which was all a part of his methods of capture and control. He was a spider after all, trained in the art of luring his prey into a false sense of security. He surveyed the women who bounced their eyes between the two males in stunned silence taking note of the suddenly hostile atmosphere. "Now I can test this great power you've gain."

"When the news of your nuptials reached my ear, I couldn't help but be curious to see for myself the strength you too have gained during my absence." The demon boldly stated looking to the women with a knowing smirk. He let out a disappointed sigh at his findings. "But it seems, you haven't gained anything. Pity."

In a blink of an eye Sesshomaru moved to attack the demon with his claws out. Sesshomaru was successfully able to slice his claws through the demon male in a killing blow causing the women to jump to their feet and hissed at the danger before them unsure of what to do. No sight of blood or muscle tissue was seen to indicate an injury had happened. They gasped at the sight of the decapitated demon floating before them with his body vanishing before their eyes. His eyes narrowed at Sesshomaru in mock dissatisfaction. "Well that was incredibly rude. And here I thought I could share some knowledge with an old friend. You'd be surprised what my spiders have brought back to me."

Sesshomaru jumped back as the demon's entire body was engulfed in a swirl of wind and miasma. In less than a second, the demon's was whole again and his attire looked crisp and clean as if nothing had happened. He simply fixed his black cuffs and adjusted his collar looking slightly betrayed. The spider that he had seen from before, crawled up his shiny shoes and pants leg until it reached his arm. The women grimaced watching the little critter run into his sleeves as the demon brushed himself off nonchalantly. Sesshomaru looked away as if bored despite the opposite watching with interest the amount of growth the demon had undergone during his extensive self-inflicted hibernation. When the spider demon said he knew something, it was scandalous. "When you make an offer, there is usually something deadly involved."

The demon stepped forward towards Sesshomaru familiarly. Both of their auras had calmed and the room's energy changed to resemble peace. "Well when I tell you what I know, it just might be. One can only hope of course." He said flicking his expensive gold watch back into place before stopping at Sesshomaru's side.

The women looked confused between the two not understanding their dynamic. One moment they looked as if they were about to murder the other in cold blood and now they spoke as if they were long time friends. Mrs. Utomi stood up outraged. "What is the meaning of this?" She demanded looking at the spider demon with a sinister red gaze that excited the demon. "Who are you! This is a private moment!" She yelled, her voice echoing off the old walls of the hall.

His red eyes lolled lazily in her direction as if he just realized her existence. His uncaring aloof behavior was noted along with the sly smile he fixed upon the older wealthy demoness. Sesshomaru knew the warning in the demon's eyes having seen it several times in the distant past when their paths for power had crossed with others that got in their way. It was also the beginning of the spider demon's mind games and manipulation that was quite legendary which is what earned his respect and his position in society. The demon made it into an art form matching his wit with the patience of a saint.

Sesshomaru stepped forward in an attempt to stop the ignorant wealthy woman from becoming his next victim but he could see it was too late. The spider had come here for a reason and he was sure it had something to do with the Utomi's. The demon saw this and beat him to the introductions, choosing to bow half-assed towards the women. "Forgive our behavior, ladies. I believe we should meet on good terms as I have a feeling, we will be seeing quite a lot of each other." He smirked dangerously towards the women. His gaze lingered a bit longer on Kaguya's form who seemed to visibly bristle at the unwanted attention. "I'm sure you heard of me. I'm Naraku Onigumo. Sesshomaru's best man."

Did you see that coming? Muahahaaha

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