Warnings: adult language, sexual situations, some violence

Author Note: sorry it took so LONG for an update, had had a huge writers block that lasted, apparently going by the dates, 5 years for this story. as an apology this chapter turned out A LOT longer than I originally intended, about 20 pages, as well throwing in some surprises and twists. lol hope you like it.

The Youkai Games

Chapter 4 : The Party

Kagome sighed leaning back on the side of the hot tub, her eyes closed, the hot water was soothing to her muscles. She knew she wasn't going anywhere. The second Jakotsu had her in his sights for beatification time, as he called it, she knew she was in trouble. But she had to admit, she was loving the Hot Tub. The sound of water pouring from the gourds, the steam rising from the water coating the glass windows that surrounded her. Her eyes opened looking out the windows, she could see the roof of the palace in the distance. Her eyes narrowed for a moment, her hand lifting as she tightened it into a fist. She took a deep breath, she had to keep herself strong.

Her eyes widened when the door flew open and Jakotsu swooped in, "Jakotsu!" She quickly dipped deeper into the water until the steamy surface reached her chin.

"Oh pish posh," Jakotsu waved off her embarrassment, not even batting an eyelash. "As very attractive as you are my dear, I have no interest in women." He strolled over to the side and reached down, lifting her right out of the water by her shoulders, "Come now, we must finish your beatification. We want to WOW everyone at the party, the more people that take notice of you. The more benefactors you'll gain, and that will play a major part in the games."

Kagome grabbed the towel he wrapped around her before he was dragging her barefooted out the door and to his room, she was about to tell him off but her jaw dropped when they entered his room. It was largely spacious, there was a king canopy bed with curtains that dropped down. Beside it was a very large vanity dresser with a mirror and lights. Make-up and accessories covering the shelves and ledge, on the other side of the room was a set of elegant and elaborate decorated folding screens. They were black with pink cherry blossom designs, beside them were many mannequins dressed in elaborate and fancy kimono dresses.

Jakotsu shut the door and walked straight to one mannequin that had a red kimono dress, with japanese cranes diagonally flying over a variety of lotus blossoms ranging from white, pink and purple. On the back was a golden gong with the cranes circled around it as they stretched out onto the long sleeves. The collar stopped at just a slight below the tops of the person's shoulders, showing off her shoulders, then curved down in a V to just between the breasts.

"I...can't wear that?!" Kagome yelled in shock, "it's a party not a geisha house!"

"Exactly!" Jakotsu cried out gleefully, as he twirled, "You'll be the jewel of the party!"

Kagome sweatdropped as she was dragged to the vanity stand, her towel was pulled from her shoulders, "hey!"

"Oh shush," Jakotsu shushed her, "now close your eyes."

Kagome sighed and closed her eyes, her eyes twitched behind the eyelids when Jaokutsu applied make-up to her eyelids. He used a reddish orange powder on her eyelids, followed by gold sparkles. He used an black eyeliner pen to her eyebrows, then applied powder to her cheeks to blend her skin together. He then applied red color to her lips with gold powdering, he used some of the blending powder on her shoulders and tops of her breasts.

"Okay, open your eyes," Jakotsu said, as he grabbed some gold nail polish. She opened her eyes, they widened as she looked at the girl in the mirror.

"Is that really me?" she asked shocked, she tilted her head side to side. She barely recognized the girl in the mirror.

He smiled knowingly, "It is indeed." He had her hold her hands out onto the vanity so he could paint her nails. Once he was done he stepped behind her, running a hand through her hair, "hmm I'm thinking, an up-do."

She watched as he worked her hair, he was quick, she had to give him that. It didn't take long for him to have part of her hair braided at the top and curling like loops, while the rest of the body of hair flowed down her back.

"Now for the final touch," he said, he pulled out the beautiful oriental hair comb that Lord Toga had given her. He slid it into her hair atop her, the blue crescent moon shape standing out among her raven hair, the sakura petal shaped weaving dropping down among her face, standing out next to the red and gold of her eyes.

"Oh what a masterpiece, and you're not even wearing the kimono yet," he clapped his hands cheerfully as he rushed to grab the kimono. "Alright, come over here."

She stood and walked over to a large dressing mirror Jakotsu had set up, it was a little difficult but she was able to get the kimono on. With Jakotsu's help it was soon tied and secured, he had her slip on red kimono sandals with gold flowers. She stood straight looking into the mirror, turning in different directions, she still couldn't believe she was looking at herself. She had never worn something so beautiful before.

"It's beautiful Jakotsu," she said, turning to him. "Your designs are wonderful."

"Thank you my dear," he said bowing, before standing. "But it is you that makes the design so beautiful." He held a hand for her, "now let's go see how our grumpy lord is doing."

Kagome giggled at his description of Sesshoumaru, it did fit him, she took Jakotsu's head letting him lead out to the living room. Bankotsu was already there, dressed in black kimono with a red dragon curved around it. Bankotsu's jaw hit the floor when his brother led Kagome into the room, and he nearly fell off the couch.

"Hahah careful brother," Jakotsu laughed, "you're starting to drool."

Bankotsu's jaw snapped back as he grinned running the back of his fist across his mouth, "damn Jaks, you really outdid yourself this time. You my dear, look absolutely stunning, I bet they'll all be fighting over who gets to promote you after tonight."

Kagome blushed, folding her fingers together, "you really think i'll be able to impress them like this."

"Oh yeah!" Jakotsu and Bankotsu yelled at the same time. Bankotsu looked behind her, "ah and here's our 'Ice Prince'."

Kagome turned and found her own jaw dropping as her eyes landed on Sesshoumaru, he was dressed in a Hakama version of her kimono. His silver hair was draped down his back in the usual style, she found her breath catching in her lungs. He looked amazing in it, she bit her lip as her eyes half closed. As she was checking him out, he was doing the same, even from behind when he walked up he had found his own breath freezing. But when she turned around, he could have sworn his heart had stopped for a moment.

He watched as her eyes closed halfway, her tongue peeking out to wet her lips as she chewed her bottom lip. He took a breath and breathed in her scent, the mix of cherry blossoms and waterfalls, and...arousal. A growl rumbled in his chest in appreciation of the effect he was having her, and the effect she was having on him.

Ignoring the raised eyebrows from Bankotsu and Jakotsu who were sending in his direction, he lifted an arm to her, "shall we?'

"Oh, yes," Kagome said, snapping out of her daze as she slid her arm around his. They exited the dorm, she found herself blushing when he drew her tightly to his side. A soft gasp escaping her lips when he leaned near her neck, his warm breath sending delightful shivers through her body.

"Beautiful," he growled softly, before lifting his head but continuing to hold her tightly to his side.

"Th..Thank you," she whispered surprised, hoping the makeup hid the blush that she was sure was dropping to her shoulders now.

"Wow," Kagome couldn't contain her surprise, as her eyes moved over the large banquet hall. It was even more extravagant than it looked from the outside. Pillars decked out in flowers and ribbon lined either side of the dance floor. On the left side of the room were tables and chairs made out of Amaranth Wood, only those in the Imperial Empire could afford to purchase the rare and almost extinct wood. Every table was lined with the finest silverware and china, and in the center of tables, were large platters filled with more varieties than she could count.

She felt Sesshoumaru squeeze her arms slightly and realized she had been staring from the doorway, she let him lead her into the room. Many of the occupants turned their heads in their direction, she found herself stepping closer to Sesshoumaru. She let her eyes move back to their destination, the Chosen's tables. Four tables lined up two by two in front of a raised table, where she assumed by elegant draped chair in the middle, was where the Emperor and his officials would be seated. The other chosen and their advisors were already standing beside their tables, leaving the upper left table across from the Main table empty. Kagome swallowed realizing that while the other Chosen each wore an elegant suit or dress, none was as elaborate or complicated as theirs.

They stopped behind their chairs, soon joined by Bankotsu on Sesshoumaru's side, and Jakotsu on her side. Kagome sweatdropped whispering to Jakotsu, "Jakotsu, why are we the only ones standing out?"

Jakotsu grinned, "ah you noticed, That was my intention. Every head in this room is currently turned in your direction, though each for different reasons."

Kagome used her eyes to glance around without moving her head, sure enough everyone was looking at them. Though she could have sworn she saw venom in many of the faces, "...looks more like they're looking at me like prey."

"Just most of the females," Jakotsu shrugged, "They're jealous, because you're on the arm of the mighty 'Ice Prince'. The males however, are looking at you like they want to devour you. Though, I daresay none of them, would dare to try tonight."

Kagome blinked as she looked at him confused, "why is that?"

Jakotsu's grin grew ever larger as he nudged her while nodding his head to her right, Kagome followed his gaze and found herself looking at a imitating Sesshomaru. His eyes were narrowed, and she watched as they flashed in the directions of many of the oogaling males. She swallowed, the very aura around him was threatening, she had a feeling that there wouldn't be many who wouldn't get within 12 feet from him.

Bankotsu chuckling, patting Sesshoumaru on the back of the shoulder, "chill dude, you want to draw them in. Not scare them away out of fear for their lives, you need sponsors, remember?"

"Remove your appendage," Sesshoumaru's face was void of any emotion, and although his tone was calm, you could still pick up the threat in it.

Bankotsu sweatdropped shaking his head with a sigh, "again, why did we get stuck with the 'Ice Prince'."

"Ahaha," Jakotsu laughed, "I do believe our Lord Sesshoumaru has taken a great interest in our delicate flower. I would quite enjoy seeing if there's any other male here could woo her from his arm." He leaned back dodging a knife that went past his head and embedded itself into a pillar, the grin never leaving his face, though he was sweet dropping.

Kagome was blushing even redder at the direction of the conversation, despite her rational side telling he had no interest in her like that, she still found herself glancing up at his face. Was there truth in what Jakotsu was implying, was it even possible that Sesshoumaru would be interested in her like that. She had caught him watching her multiple times up till then, and had only assumed it was because he was sizing her up to see if she was good enough to be his partner in this fight. Then there was what had happened back in the dorm, there had been a predatory look in his eyes. But not one that sent fear through, instead it had created the opposite effect. He had even called her beautiful, her eyes closed, unknowingly tightening her arm around his.

A throat clearing brought her out of her thoughts, she opened her eyes to find Sesshoumaru looking back at her. He didn't speak, she hoped that her face didn't give away her thoughts. If she was reading this wrong, she didn't want to know how angry he would be. She felt a nudge to her back and realized Jakotsu was the one who had cleared his throat.

"Are you alright?" Jakotsu asked her quietly, "it's not too warm in that Kimono is it?" Though he doubted that would be the case, given that her shoulders were not covered. He quickly realized he had forgotten something. "Oh dear, How forgetful of me." He pulled out a pink lotus blossom made out of quartz crystal, attached to a thick gold loop. He hooked it around her neck, "there, I can't believe I let you leave without completing your look."

"I'm alright," Kagome quickly whispered back in a squeak. "No, just a little thirsty." She blinked when Jakotsu pulled out the pink lotus necklace. "Oh, uh thank you." She found herself admiring the beautiful crystal, she blinked when a claw delicately picked up the crystal before letting it fall gracefully back against her skin. She looked up at Sesshomaru, he nodded in approval. She smiled up at him, Bankotsu and Jakotsu were grinning on either side of them.

'Told you so,' Jakotsu mouthed to Bankotsu, Bankotsu rolled his head at his brother. Waving him off in a 'yeah yeah' motion.

The sound of horns filled the room, every head rose in attention, as a guard stepped up beside the raised table, "Everyone's attention forward! Announcing the entrance of his Royal Highness, the Imperial Emperor!"

The emperor entered the room in royal black robes, gold dragons, and yellow buttons. He strolled in stopping at the head of the raised table, Kagome watched as a dark haired man and a man with black and red hair walked up to stand on either side of the emperor. One was dressed in a black robes, while the other was dressed in black and red armor. They were followed by a male with long black hair in a ponytail, purple eyes, and pale skin. He wore dark blue and gray robes. Beside him was a female with black teal hair, teal eyes and pale skin. She was dressed in a red and purple dress, with a red cape, on the shoulders of the cape it had purple fabric that rose up like spikes.

Although she was beautiful, Kagome could feel a deadly aura, seeping off the woman. She could only calculate that the last two had to be the Imperial Empire's chosen, they walked as if they owned the place. The male took his place on the left side of the other dark haired male, while the female took her place next to black and red haired male. They all faced the other occupants of the room as the emperor raised a hand.

"I welcome all of you, patrons and chosen, to the 175 anniversary of the Youkai Games," The Emperor's voice boomed around them. "However, tonight, I do not want you to think of each other as enemies. This will be a night to enjoy yourself and have fun, It will be your first night here in the Imperial Capital, and I want you all to take in everything around you. We have food from every part of the country and beyond the waters with us here tonight. While you eat, each one of you will take turns coming up to introduce yourselves. I have also arranged music from the most famous musicians in the lands to entertain us tonight. Dance with your partners, and even take a chance and dance with your fellow chosen. For tonight you are all guests at this extravagant party! So please, take your seats and enjoy!"

Once the emperor was seated, the others at his table sat. Soon followed by the other occupants of the room, Kagome looked up when Sesshoumaru pulled out her chair for her.

"Thank you," she said sitting down, he pushed her in closer to the table before taking his seat. Bankotsu raised an eyebrow from where he was leaning on his elbow.

"How gentlemanly of you our dear 'Ice Prince'," Jakotsu taunted, blinking when another knife went by, this time grazing his cheek. It is embedded into the pillar beside the other one.

"Uh that was my knife," Bankotsu pointed out, he sweatdropped at the aura around Sesshoumaru. "Neeeeeevermind, aaaannyhow, enjoy the food."

"Here ya go," Jakotsu filled Kagome's plate with a variety of meats and sides.

"Thank you Jakotsu," Kagome said with a sigh, she knew better than to try to convince him to let her do it.

After they had been eating for awhile Bankotsu set his fork down, "alright, you two continue eating while Jaks and I inform you about the others."

Kagome nodded while she took a bite of breaded pork loin, touching her cheek in bliss. It was so delicious, despite the guilt in the pit of her stomach she couldn't deny the delicious flavors. The bbq chicken was so delectably sweet and tangy, sweet potato with a caramel drizzle and covered in marshmallows. There was moist and crispy cod, brought out even more by the kick of tartar sauce it was dipped in.

"Heh, glad you're enjoying the food," Jakotsu said gleefully, "you're finally letting yourself have some fun."

"Yeah, it's good to see you so happy looking," Bankotsu pointed out, "you're going to need that spark."

Kagome nodded smiling at them, "I decided that you were right, my family would understand and would want me to be at my best for the games."

"As you should be," Sesshoumaru said, he was sipping at a glass of sake.

"Yeah," Kagome agreed, smiling, she paused, something was off, she felt like she was being watched. Looking up she found red eyes watching from the raised table. The man with black hair and red highlighted hair was watching her. Dark red orbs that reminded of her blood, she felt as if they were looking into her very soul. She felt her skin grow cold, there was something very dark about that man, she had a bad feeling about him.

"Kagome," Jakotsu's voice reached her, but she found she still could not look away from the dark red orbs.

Sesshoumaru placed a claw on her chin turning her face to his, "Kagome."

Kagome felt herself being pulled from the dark gaze, as she found herself blinking looking up into Sesshoumaru's golden depths, "oh, i'm sorry, for some reason I couldn't look away."

"Hmm, it wasn't your fault," Jakotsu said, his voice going serious. "He has the ability to trap people within his gaze."

Sesshoumaru made sure she was okay, before turning his own gaze to the man, he was not so easily entrapped. He allowed a cold smile to cross his lips at the look of frustration that descended upon the man's face.

"Who is he?" Kagome asked, shaking her head slightly.

"That is Lord Akuma," Bankotsu replied seriously, "be very careful around him. Not much is known about him, that makes him extremely dangerous."

"On the other side of the emperor, is Lord Naraku," Jakotsu said, "they are advisors to the Emperor."

"On Lord Akuma's right, is Lady Kaguya," Bankotsu said, "also known as 'The Goddess of the Heavens'."

"She's very beautiful," Kagome said, looking her over, "but I sense there's something dangerous about her."

"Indeed," Jakotsu agreed, "she's as ruthless as she is beautiful. There's even a rumor that she's immortal."

"At least that's what they say," Bankotsu shrugged, "I think it's just because no one has ever beat her in a fight. Now, the one on the far left, his name is Byakuya."

"He is known as 'Byakuya of Illusions'," Jakotsu took a bite of bbq pork. "Both make a very deadly team. Word is they are the ones favored to win."

"Really?" Kagome asked worriedly, it was only the first day in the Imperial Empire and already they were being betted against.

"This Sesshoumaru is not worried," Sesshoumaru said, eating the breaded pork loin. His eyes were closed, and there was a calm aura about him.

"Hn, of course you wouldn't be unnerved," Bankotsu grinned, "good, because I look forward to seeing you live up to your nickname."

"Nickname?" Kagome asked, surprised as she looked up at Sesshoumaru, his eyebrow twitched slightly as he ignored the two idiots. Kagome tilted her head, "I thought 'Ice Prince' was your nickname?"

"Oh it is, but there's one thats even more widely known," Jakotsu grinned. "It's…"

Bankotsu leaned in on the table looking at Kagome while glancing at Sesshomaru, "...Killing Perfection."

Kagome gasped as Sesshoumaru wrapped a claw around Bankotsu's throat, his eyes opened revealing cold golden depths, "if you wish to live till dessert, you will refrain from trying to frighten her."

"Our bad," Bankotsu choked out, trying to break Sesshoumaru's grip.

"Oooh busted," Jankoutsu laughed, "oh dear, we really are sorry. But now you know my dear, you're quite safe with the 'Killing Perfection' protecting you."

"Yeah," Kagome smiled big nodding before blushing at what she was agreeing too. She grew flustered, "wait...what..um...I…"

"You are safe with this Sesshoumaru," Sesshoumaru's cool voice drifted over her, she looked up at him. HIs head tilted slightly looking down at her, the coldness in his eyes had warmed and she saw nothing but truth in his eyes. She had no doubt that he would keep his word, as long as she was with him, she was safe.

It made her truly believe that they could win, she nodded, "right."

Sesshoumaru allowed himself to return her smile, his eyes narrowed again when Jakotsu cleared his throat again.

"Umm Sesshoumaru could you release my brother please," Jakotsu waved to her Bankotsu.

Kagome's eyes widened as she saw that Bankotsu had turned blue in the face and was hanging limp in Sesshoumaru's grip, "Oh dear! Bankotsu!"

Sesshoumaru released his grip with letting Banktosu fall against the table, Bankotsu was still for a few minutes before he started twitching. Then he suddenly gasps, jumping to his feet, pointing at Sesshoumaru, "what the hell?! You trying to kill me?! This is how you treat your advisors, you ungrateful spoiled rotten pup?!"

"Sit down, you're making a fool of yourself," Sesshoumaru lifted his sake cup taking a sip.

"Why you!" Bankotsu didn't get a chance to hit Sesshoumaru, Jakotsu had gotten up and restrained his brother. "Now now brother, why don't you sit down and have your favorite chocolate filled cream puff."

"Huh, oh, fine," Bankotsu sat down grumbling, about ungrateful lords and spoiled rich youkai. He took a large bite of the chocolate cream puff that Jaks placed in front of him.

"There there," Jaks patted Bankotsu on the head, before taking a seat back next Kagome again. "Dessert time."

Kagome gasped when a chocolate chip cheesecake with hot fudge drizzled over it was set in front of her. She dipped her spoon in and brought it to her lips, it was delicious. She blinked when another spoon dipped in stealing a piece, she followed it, looking up in surprise when Sesshoumaru brought the spoon to his lips. Her jaw dropped staring at him, an amused look filled his eyes. He spooned up a spoonful of his dessert, strawberry covered pound cake, moving it to her lips. She blinked again, he was giving her taste of his, she opened her mouth and felt the spoon pass her lips. Her eyes widened in delight, the strawberry taste was strong, sweet and cool, followed by the fluffy golden pound cake.

"Oh my, that's delicious," she said joyously, licking her lips, "thank you Sesshoumaru."

"Um you've got a little…." Jankotusu started pointing to the side of his mouth in example. "Strawberry juice right…"

"Oh?!" Kagome went to lift her napkin but was caught off guard when a warm tongue licked away the strawberry juice. She froze like a deer in headlights, as Sesshoumaru pulled back licking his lips, "delicious."

She remained frozen, eyes wide, cheeks red, Jakotsu poked her and she merely moved sideways then sitting straight again. He burst out laughing, "I think she's in shock."

Sesshoumaru leaned in beside her, his breath brushing her hair, "I can fix that."

She snapped back to attention hiding her face, "I...I'm alright." Which was a complete lie, she wasn't alright. Her entire body was tingling, she could still feel Sesshoumaru's tongue against the side of her lips. It was making her mind steer to impure thoughts, she shifted slightly in her seat.

"Awww she's embarrassed," Jakotsu teased, he raised an eyebrow at her reaction before grinning knowingly. Leaning he whispered. "Is someone thinking naughty thoughts."

Kagome twitched, but before she could react, Bankotsu's voice hissed through, "quiet, the introductions are starting."

She looked up just as she recognized Kagura standing on the floor not far from them, a small girl with pale skin and white hair standing next to her. She was holding what looked like index cards, she handed the first to Kagura.

"Thank you, Kanna," Kagura took the first card, "First for our Introductions, The Southern District Chosens. "

The two chosen from the Southern District stood from the table behind them walking to the path in between the tables to the head table. The male had a mix of blue and tan skin with gray hair tied in a bun. He wore a dark blue kimono with dark sandals. The female next to him had short black hair with a green tint to it, held up by a red band, and red eyes. She was wearing a black kimono dress that went to just blow her thighs, with brown sandals. The collar of her kimono went a V down her chest even further than Kagome's, showing off the entire sides of her chest breast.

"We have Ginka and Yura," Kagura announced, as bowed to the emperor.

The emperor nodded in turn as the two returned to their tables, Kanna handed another card to Kagura, she read it, "and next is the Northern District Chosen."

Two people stood from the table next to the Southern District, when the female looked to be a child. Kagome realized that it was a child, not much older than Shippou. She had long black hair in pigtails, and red eyes. She barely reached Kagome's waist in height, Bankotsu caught her look. She was dressed in an orange and pink kimono dress with sakura blossoms.

"Her name is Soten, younger sister of the Thunder Brothers," Bankotsu said sighing. "The eldest had attempted to volunteer but was unable to. Both brothers have fought and won in the Youkai Games. So neither one was able to stand in her place and enter for her."

"That's so sad, she's just a child," Kagome said sadly.

"That child is a youkai," Sesshoumaru said sternly, "do not be deceived by her appearance. Youkai can become deadly even at such a young age."

"He's right," Jakotsu said, "unfortunately she'll be your enemy in the games. Don't let her appearance fool you."

"Yeah you would be one to know, wouldn't you oh great Dog Lord," a voice growled from behind them. Kagome looked up gasping to find a great burly male with black hair and black eyes standing behind them. The dark green kimono standing out in contrast to his tan skin, an orange head band around his head.

The male punched his fist together leaning in with a grin over Sesshoumaru's shoulder to Kagome, "well, well, well, what a delicate little flower. What poor fortune you must have to have been paired up with this dog. If you had been chosen in our district, you would have been paired with me. You wouldn't have to worry about wilting under my care." He reached to place a claw on her chin, "If you think you're going to be safe with him as a partner, you'll be highly disappointed. Nobody is safe from a Tashio's betrayal, he'll be just his father."

Kagome's eyes narrowed, but she was caught off guard when he grabbed her chin forcing her to look up at him, her voice shook in anger with her body, "you're..wrong...Sesshoumaru's is an honorable man! And so is Lord Toga!"

The male looked surprised at her outrage before grinning and leaning, "wow quite a spitfire you have oh Mighty Lord Sesshoumaru. Maybe I should take her off your hands, I'm sure when we win I can appeal to the Emperor to let me keep her."

A blue striped claw reached out grabbing his wrist and yanking it off Kagome, Sesshoumaru's nails dug into the man's wrist as he stood, "step away from her." His eyes held a tint of red, and his fangs were peeking out between his lips.

"Hn? So you have some kind of special interest in this one?" the male grinned, "what is she your intended or something?"

Sesshoumaru moved himself so that his body was blocking Kagome from view, though he said nothing, the man's grin grew wider, "So that's how it is." He leaned growling just loud enough for youkai to hear, "I look forward to taking her from you, I'll make sure you live long enough to see her become MY mate."

The red tint in Sesshoumaru's eyes spreaded out, a green glow forming in his claws as poison sizzled from his claws, dripping to the ground and burning a hold in the ground as he growled, "I"ll end you before you ever lay a claw on her again."

"Sesshoumaru!" Kagome cried out worriedly, gripping the back of his Hakami, she was worried about him. It made her happy to know he was defending her, but at the same time, she was scared the emperor might see this as a threat and punish both of them.

"Hey that's enough!" Bankotsu yelled grabbing Sesshoumaru's arm, "Save it for the games! And you go back to your partner! Before my brother and I make you!"

The male didn't have a chance to retort, he found a knife at his throat, Jakotsu was beside him holding his knife close to the man's skin, "now, now, be a good boy and save it for the games."

"Shuran of the southern district!" Kagura yelled loudly, as a rush of wind blew through surrounding him and lifting him. "That is enough!" Her wind sent him flying through the air to his table. "Now sit down everyone!"

Sesshoumaru remained standing, his eyes closed once the object of his anger was no longer in front of him. He was not one to lose his cool, but seeing Shuran lay a hand on Kagome, sent fury through his blood. His demon demanded to react to the threat to his property, wait his property, when did he start thinking of her like that. He opened his eyes when he felt soft hands gripping the back of his hakami.

"Sesshoumaru?" her soft voice had him turning to her, he looked down at her seeing the worry in her eyes. He brushed a claw against her cheek to reassure her everything was okay.

"Well, that was fun," Jakotsu sat down twirling the knife through his fingers.

"Yeah, loads," Bankotsu said, before sending glare at Sesshoumaru, "we are talking about this later."

Sesshoumaru ignored them as he helped Kagome back into her chair before sitting down again, all four noticed that all eyes within the hall were on them again. Bankotsu sweatdropped, "okay for future reference, this is not how we keep a low profile."

Kagome glanced at the high table, and found looks of amusement on the Emperor's advisor's faces, she found her eyes locking with Naraku's. Unlike Akuma's gaze she could look away, but, even though it wasn't as strong as Akuma's. She could feel a dark foreboding feeling when looking at Naraku, wherever it was, she knew it meant both of them were bad news.

"Alright, now that the excitement is over," Kagura said coldly, sending glare at the Southern table. "We have the Northern District chosen."

Kagome looked across the way to the table next to theirs, she gasped in surprise, the female was human just like her. She had auburn hair and orange eyes, and was dressed in dark orange sleeveless kimono dress that reached her ankles. The male was a young man about Souten's age, with white hair and teal eyes dressed in light brown kimono.

"We have Kai from the northern wolf tribe, and Enju!" Kagura called out, as the two bowed to the Emperor before returning to their seats. "And last, we have the Western District!"

Sesshoumaru stood holding a claw out to Kagome, she placed her hand in his as he helped her stand and they walked to the front of the HIgh Table. She tried to keep her emotions in check as they approached the table, Sesshoumaru's face was void of any emotion.

"We have Lord Sesshoumaru of the Western District, and Kagome Higureshi!" Kagura called out, folding her arms and stepping back out of the way.

Kagome bowed in movement with Sesshoumaru before standing straight again, her eyes drifting over the table, this time however she knew not to make eye contact with Lord Akuma, as she kept her gaze from meeting his.

"That was quite impressive Lord Sesshoumaru," The Emperor said, "I was quite amused at your defense of your partner. I'm sure if half these other challengers showed the same face, they would have better luck at surviving the games. You will need trust in your partners to survive against my challengers. I look forward to seeing you in action."

"Yes, your majesty," Sesshoumaru replied in an emotionless voice.

The Emperor stood facing everyone, "I hope you all take a lesson from Lord Sesshoumaru. If you wish to survive in these games, you will have to work as a team. Partnerships like this do not work if you do not have complete trust in your partners. Now, let the musicians entice us to the dance floor."

The Imperial Orchestra began to play a medium paced dance, the emperor turned to Sesshoumaru, "would you and your partner do us the honor of starting the dance.

Kagome squeaked in surprise as she found herself being led to the dancefloor, she looked up when he stopped in front of her. He bowed before her, "May I have this dance?"

"You may," Kagome replied, glad she kept her voice steady. She felt his claw slip into her hand, as his other wrapped around her waist pulling her close. As he took the lead, at first she found herself trying to keep up, she realized he was purposely going slow enough to stay in synchronization with her.

She soon found herself able to move with him, as he swept her across the dance floor in tune with the music. Her gaze met his as everything around them seemed to be drowned out by the music, she didn't even notice the others taking to the floor dancing around them. All she could see was him, their eyes locked, neither looking away from the other. His claw tightened around her hand as she found herself being held tighter to him, being so close she could almost hear and feel the beat of his heart. She knew that he would have no trouble hearing hers, it was pounding deep in her chest.

She was so close, he could hear her heart pounding, he found himself drawing her as close as he could. He wanted the distance between them gone, her eyes gazing up at him. The red and gold powder on her eyes made the emerald stand out. He watched as her tongue poked out to wet her dry lips, his gaze following the movement, he leaned in until his lips were inches from hers.

Kagome felt her breath catch when she realized how close he was, she didn't look away when he leaned closer, instead she found herself pressing herself tighter against him. Their lips drew closer, her eyes drifted shut as she waited for the feel of his lips on hers. She could feel his breath on her lips and the slight touch of their lips begging touch.

"Omph!" Kagome cried out when something hard slammed right into her, she would have been knocked to the floor if Sesshoumaru did have a hand lock on her waist. She looked up to find that it had been Shura who had knocked into them.

"Oops sorry, did I ruin your chance at getting a kiss oh mighty dog lord," Shura laughed, despite the face he was half bent dancing with his very short partner Soten.

"Shuran!" Soten yelled frustrated before stomping on his foot, "stop being a jerk!" The young girl spun on her foot and stormed off.

"Soten?!" Shura yelled, chasing off after his young partner.

"Are you alright?" Sesshoumaru asked as Kagome straightened herself in his arms, he was furious inside, though his face didn't show it. His tone however, gave away his annoyance. He had been so close, then the fool had to go and ruin it.

"Yes, thank you," Kagome sighed warily, "Maybe it's best if I retire for the night, things are getting a little too 'rough' around here for me."

Sesshoumaru silently cursed Shura, he didn't want to let her go, his hand slowly released her waist. His eyes glanced over to where Bankotsu and Jakotsu were signalling him, he raised an eyebrow, they were making signs for him to go with her. He calculated quickly at what they were instigating, he looked back down at her, "I will escort you back to the dorms."

"Oh, you don't have to," Kagome said quickly, she didn't want to ruin the night for him too. "I'm sure you'd rather stay here."

"Quite the contrary," Sesshoumaru replied, holding a hand out for her. "I detest large gatherings."

Kagome blinked before smiling, "Aright, thank you." She took his head and let him lead her out of the banquet halls.

Kagome sighed in relief when they reached the dorm, stepping through the door stretching her arms above her head, "hmm wow i'm glad that's over. Jeez the tension in that place, and what was that dude's problem right when I almost had my first…" Her mouth slammed shut as her eyes widened, she had been about to blurt out right in front of Sesshoumaru that it would have been her first kiss. She was caught off guard when she found him directly in front of her.

Sesshoumaru watched as Kagome entered the room, his eyes following the movement, when her arms raised above her head, the collar of the kimono dropped lower. Revealing the tops of her breasts, he felt his hakama pants grow uncomfortable. When she started venting he found himself smiling, he was glad he had such an effect that she was angry they hadn't kissed. His eyes widened in shock when she cut herself off, he picked up immediately what she was about to say. He would have been her first kiss, he would have thought that that would have been his foolish half brother. This meant his brother had never taken the initiative with her, he stepped closer to her.

He would not make the same mistake, when she stopped looking up at him he slid a claw around her waist pulling her close, he watched her own gaze grow heated under his. Leaning down he finished what had started in the banquet hall, his lips capturing hers. At first he felt her tense, as time passed he felt her relax into his arms as her lips parted. His tongue used the opportunity to slip though her lips, curling around hers, coaxing hers to respond. A growl of appreciation rumbled in his chest when she grew bolder, her tongue sliding against his. When a soft mewl escaped her lips, he found himself no longer able to hold back.

Kagome was on fire, the feelings that Sesshoumaru's kiss was invoking in her was amazing, she could no longer focus on coherent thoughts. She didn't even realize they were moving until she felt her legs bump into the side of the couch causing her to fall backwards over the arm of the couch. Her chest rising and falling with deep breaths as she tried to catch her breath. She looked up at Sesshoumaru, who was staring at her with a heated gaze. If she had been thinking clearly she would have realized the state she was in, in her fall the kimono had raised up revealing her legs, and the collar had loosened revealing her breasts.

Sesshoumaru's eyes raked her form, he could fill his erection pressing against his hakama pants. He had not intended to allow it to get this far so soon, but seeing her there in that state, and Shura's words repeating in his head. He could no longer contain the demon within, he could no longer deny it. He wanted her, not just in body but in mind and soul. He would claim her as his, he would not allow anyone else to have her. He climbed over the couch arm, one knee pressed between her legs, the other on the ground. One arm gripping the top of the couch held his balance, as the other claw brushed over leg moving up her body.

A soft mewl escaped her lips as he leaned down, capturing her lips again. Her fingers found their way into his hair as their tongues dueled for dominance. His knee pressing between her legs could feel the heat pouring off her core, his claw found brushed her inner thigh, before trailing to her core. He was surprised to find her already wet, his finger brushing over her outer lips. Her hips lifted quickly and he pressed down on her core to steady her, earning a gasp through her lips. He smirked against her lips before pulling back, he wanted to see her reactions. Slipping his finger between her outlips, his fingers found her little pleasure nub. Squeezing and rubbing it between his fingers, careful not to cut her with his claws.

He watched her eyes widen at first in pleasure before closing them, her lips parting in a silent cry of ecstasy. Her body writhed beneath as fingers gripped at the edges of the couch. Wanting to hear her cries, his fingers trailed to her opening slipping his index finger into her. He was rewarded with a soft cry, his finger slid in and out of her, her already moist cavern slick to the touch. He slipped another finger in her, while his thumb returned it's mistreations to her nub. Her cries grew louder as her body writhed more, he pressed his body tighter against hers. His erection pushing against her leg through his pants. His free claw was making holes in the couch as he fought to keep himself from ripping her kimono off right there and claiming her.

He slipped a third finger into her as he leaned down capturing her left breast in his mouth, his fangs brushing over the nipple as it hardened in his mouth. His lips closed around it sucking and nipping, while his fingers continued to move within her. The sounds of her cries rising in volume was music to his hears, he could tell she was drawing closer. He could feel her inner walls tightening around his fingers. Switching breast, his lips closed around the right, his fangs grabbing hold of the nipple tugging on it, at the same time he pressed his fingers as deep as he could into her, curling them into her g-spot.

Her wondrous scream filled the room as her climax set in, her juices flooding over his fingers and the couch. He lifted up looking down at her, sweat clung to her skin, strands of hair had broken free from their bun. He lifted his fingers to his mouth, his eyes half closed as his tongue curled around his fingers cleaning them of her juices. A soft whimper brought his eyes to hers.

"Sess….shoumar….pl..please…" she begged in panted breaths, her body was in pain, a pain that only he could fix. Her fingers gripped at his hakama as her hips raised sliding against his leg and bumping his erection.

He let loose a warning growl, causing her to whimper more, the growl turned softer as he leaned in nuzzling her neck, "is this what you want. You know what will happen, there won't be any going back." He gave her the chance to back out, even though he knew there was no way he could back down now. She was going to be his mate whether she agreed or not, but he wanted to be able to hear her beg for it.

"...y..yes...please….Sess...shou...maru…" She begged, her voice shaking, even her fogged mind she knew what she was asking for. She didn't know what would happen afterwards, right now, all she knew was that needed him inside her.

He growled in triumph before his claw dug into the sash holding her kimono together and ripped it off. The kimono falling open around her revealed everything to him, his chest rumbled in approval as he put his weight on his foot on the floor. He undid his hakama ripping the top and pants off before climbing back over her, pulling her closer to the arm of the couch so that her legs were hanging off on either side of him. Rubbing his erection across her wetness he coated himself in her juices, before lining himself up with her opening. He started to press the tip into her tight entrance, her juices allowing him to slip in. He pushed forward until he felt a barrier, leaning forward he captured her lips with his, before thrusting forward until he was fully sheathed within her.

He remained still, letting her body adjust to him, when he felt her hips rock against him he knew she was ready. His lips only broke contact with hers to allow her air, before recapturing them. His hips pulled back until he was almost out of her before thrusting forward again. One claw gripped and tugged at her breast while the other dug into her side. One of her hands found their way back into his hair, the other grabbed onto his back. Her nails dug into his skin as she lifted her hips to meet his thrusts. With each movement she could feel him move deep within her, her back arched against the couch. When he thrusted into her at an angle hitting her g-spot she screamed in pleasure, seeing what it did to her, he copied the movement again and again.

"Sesshoumaru!" she screamed as her body was sent through another climax, but before she could come down from it, he was thrusting into her harder and faster. She didn't know how much time had gone by, all she knew was she had lost count of how many times he had made her climax. She didn't know how much she could take.

He could sense her tiring, and he was drawing closer to his own release. Pulling back he readied himself, his fangs lengthening. Gripping her hips, he pulled out then slammed into her all the way to the cervix, releasing into as her cry of his name reached his ears. He sunk his fangs into her shoulder, her blood filling his mouth. He remained inside her as cock emptied his seed into her, filling her womb, their combined juices leaking out from between her legs. His fangs release their grip on her shoulder, pulling back slightly to brush his tongue over the wound. His saliva healing the deep mark into a scar, as it formed a blue crescent mark with a starburst. He brushed her bangs aside to reveal his crescent mark forming on her forehead. It was done, she was his mate now.

He watched as her eyes began to slip shut, nuzzling her neck he whispered to her, "rest my mate. You will need it."

He found himself yawning a fanged yawn, he glanced over their current spot. It would be quite hard to sleep beside his mate in their current position. Reluctantly he slid out of her, smirking slightly as their combined juices dripped out of her onto the couch. He knew he would be in for earful from Bankotsu, but at the moment, he didn't give a damn. He lifted her into his arms, wrapping his tail around her form as he carried her to his room. Tucking her, before sliding in beside her, pulling her close. He just hoped she wasn't going to regret what had happened, there was no denying that his demon wanted her as a mate. But she was human, things would be different for her, most humans believed in falling in love first. For him, wanting her as a mate was the same as love, but for her...he sighed. He would handle that storm when it came, for now, he was content to sleep beside his mate. His eyes closed as he fell into a deep sleep holding his mate close.