Chapter 4 - Welcomed or rejected?

It is quite surprising how many things can happen within less than 24 hours. Somehow, I went from being the lonely traveller, who lives her life in her own way, to an eavesdropper fighting for her life, later to a captive and finally to a temporary ward of the Lord of the Western Lands - that's quite an impressive change.

After being brought to the host room I was left on my own. Slowly I sat down on a comfortable armchair. This place kind of reminds me of the Kosui residence though there are certain differences between the two of them. Of course, the centre of the Seigyo clan domain is not that extensive and maybe not even as much luxurious. But the few similarities cannot be overlooked. Something about this place makes me feel… secure? Well, I'm certainly not sure if that the right word; familiar would probably better describe my actual feelings. 'But why do I feel like that?'

Who knows, it's like an inner conviction, which is probably why I accepted the Lord's offer so quickly. Yes, I aware that it was quite quick decision, however, a thoughtful one.After all, in the past years I started to become a bit lonely. Sometimes I wishfully say: 'If only it had happened differently, but there is no use moaning… I did what I believed was right and even though it's hard on me from time to time, I just couldn't bare the idea of creating a mess and unease. Surely, what happened between me and 'her' have already brought enough trouble.'

Before I could let my mind go wild someone entered the room. It was a dog-demoness, probably one of the maids working in the services of the Dog Demon Lord. Without any words se just placed the tray she carried on the table, shoot me a glare and then left. Wow, that surely wasn't a pleasant one, was it? It feels like I'm not welcomed with open arms.' But honestly, should I expect otherwise?

After all, I am 'only' a half demon, so this attitude is nothing new. However, after what I had experienced not only in the last ten years, but even before what I received from 'certain' people, I've got used to it and learnt to ignore most of the nasty comments... and I even figured out that sometimes it's quite entertaining to get on their nerves by 'accepting my inferiority' and using it against them.

Nevertheless, enough of that - there is something else I should care about, namely the tray she had brought. 'Looks like a nice supper.' I remark, observing the plate full of fruits and a bowl of cooked rice with vegetable. 'Itadakimasu.'

...

About half an hour after I finished the dinner I can hear someone pacing in the hallway. I sniffed the air, searching for that person's scent and as the door is about to open I recognise it. The familiar soldier enters and instructs me to follow him again.

Just as we're about to reach the Lord's study I suddenly notice that we are not alone in these corners of the palace. What's more I feel like this new scent isn't totally unknown to me. I surely have come across the bearer of it... 'I see! He was the one having the secret strategy meeting with Inutaisho back there in the forest.'

We turn the next corner and enter each other's field of vision. Our eyes made a contact and I see anger mixed with distrust in his. Before I can react, I'm pushed and pressed against the wall. "So, it was you!" says he in accusation. "Just remember this little 'hanyou', he continues scornfully, "if it all depended on me you would be either death or rotting in the dungeons and the only variegation of your pitiful situation would be torturing." His words feel like a poison which makes a chill run down my back. 'And I thought that nasty looks were sufficient token of unwelcomes.'

"However, it does not, Lord Daiki," comes a serene voice I immediately recognise which makes my numb body relax a bit. "Unfortunately," replies the person concerned, nods in the direction of the incomer and leaves.

I turn to face the Lord of the Western Lands. His expression reveals nothing, however - I may be imagining it but that honestly the way I feel - there seems to be a glimmer of concern as he calls my name: "Natsuki." 'Why? Usually it takes a while before I can trust someone. Just what makes the Dog General so special? The way he acts towards me... is completely different from what I'm used to from full demons. His actions even made me lose my guard a bit.'

"I should have expected that," I note, trying to calm the wave of emotions that has risen inside of me. And I happen to success. Inutaisho gestures to the soldier, who had brought me there, to leave, and for the second time today, we are left alone.

"Come," says he and without any ado I follow. "I believe it is time to acquaint you with this place."

A/N: First of all I apologise it took me so long to write this chapter, nonethless I hope you will enjoy it. I also hope that the next one will be up faster that this. Until next time.

Published: November 3, 2016