A/N: Whoops! Since I accidentally posted ahead, you are getting a double post as I correct my mistake! Enjoy, and thanks for reviewing!
Word had spread quickly of Naraku's death. And though it was much anticipated, it was causing some tension among the other lords. It was no surprise that Sesshoumaru had a hand in his demise- he had long been considered the strongest demon in Japan. But this had squelched any lingering doubts, and his legacy was all but set in stone.
None would attempt to challenge him now, and there was a fear that he would use his elevated status to conquer any lands not currently under his rule. There was a surge in recruit enlistment for his armies; many now wanted to align themselves with the West and its powerful lord for the protection he offered, and so that they may never have to find themselves facing off against him.
Humans were also flocking to his lands in hoards. There was a rumor that the Lord of the West was tolerant of their species, and would at least let them be without causing them any unjustified harm. Even those with a hatred of demons couldn't deny their power, and if there was a lord who didn't necessarily want to see them dead, it was worth it to take their chances with him. The West was getting too big, and it appeared to many that Sesshoumaru would need to expand his lands to accommodate the recent influx of citizens.
As it was, Sesshoumaru had no interest in overthrowing the other lords. It made much more sense to let them keep their official duties, so long as they didn't clash with his own. He would keep an eye on things and interfere when needed. But if they considered him an ally, he could use his influence to steer them in the right direction without having to expel his own vast resources, time and effort. Speaking of which-
He had returned to the West three days prior, and being made aware of the uneasiness of his peers, had sent summons to the other lords. In two days-time they would all be setting foot in the Western Fortress, and he would be playing host in an attempt to settle unrest and lay out his plans going forward.
The council consisted of the lord of each of the four lands, their heirs, and occasionally a general or two. When a meeting was called, they would all gather. It was customary to bring family and soldiers to socialize to show alliance, but they did not attend the council meeting.
For now, all he could do was wait. Those who served him had their instructions and were seeing to the preparations for the event. All in attendance would have to be fed and housed, and security was always a top priority. With all the great powers gathered in one place, it would be a prime occasion for an attack; albeit a foolhardy one. Having those duties seen to by his staff, Sesshoumaru's only remaining task was to ensure that his proposals for the meeting were air tight, and left no room for arguments or counter offers.
His task hadn't taken long, as he had been planning for this day for some time. He had been spending his time since his return simply going through them with a fine-toothed comb, making changes and adding measures as he saw fit. Once he was satisfied, he spent his time re-researching some histories and facts so they would be fresh in his mind when the time came to discuss them. It had become a redundant exercise at this point, and had seen him grow bored. When he started micro managing the jobs he'd handed off to others, he realized his time would be better spent on other endeavors.
Seeing no need to remain idle, he informed his General that he had a matter to tend to, and that he would return before the other lords arrived. If he left now, he would be right on time.
'Hn. It seems I will make the wedding after all.'
"Aw shit. Can we squeeze in one more guest, houshi?"
After Sesshoumaru had left for the West, the rest of the group made to return to their own village. When learning of the upcoming wedding, Lord Hano insisted that they used his halls as their venue. It made sense; his village had more at its disposal for such an event. The marrying couple had very little family to speak of; and with some of the village in attendance, it would feel more like a true wedding. So, they left briefly to retrieve Kohaku and Kaede, and returned to hold the ceremony.
The girls were in a back room with Sango, putting on the finishing touches. While the men took their positions at the alter waiting to begin.
Miroku threw Inuyasha a confused look at his question, just as the main door to the hall opened and, in all his glory, The Lord of the Western Lands stepped through. Confusion turned to joy, "Lord Sesshoumaru! I'm pleased you could make it!"
"Long time no see. You get bored out West already?"
They had been travelling together for months, and he was loathed to admit he had become accustomed to their presence. He hadn't any very close acquaintances in the West, outside that of a lord to his follower. And though those in this pack were by no means his equal, they were more like a pack to him than anything else. They regarded him more easily than most, and he felt no need for the usual formality that encompassed him in his other life.
"This One has never been witness to a human wedding. This appears to be a perfect opportunity. If I am still invited, of course?" To him, asking permission to do anything was a novelty.
"My Lord, it is an honor. You're just in time, we were about to begin. Please take a seat beside Kaede up front." Miroku gestured to the old woman, who made space for the imposing demon. She greeted him warmly as he approached.
"Lord Sesshoumaru. Ye are a sight for sore eyes. I trust your business has been settled then?" Apparently, the others had informed her of the conditions regarding his departure. Well, at least some of them.
"There is nothing that cannot wait upon my return tomorrow night. I wish to witness a human wedding." He wasn't sure why he suddenly felt the need to explain himself, but thought no more on it.
"Yes. Tis a most joyous occasion. Those two have waited far too long for this day. The lives they have fought for may finally begin." A lifetime of suffering and hardship had taken a toll on her once gentle features, but her open nature made her presence comfortable.
"There appears to be no couple more deserving."
Kaede spared him a sidelong glance as she turned to the alter, "Perhaps."
Sesshoumaru followed her line of sight. "Tell This One," he demanded as he got situated, "Why does Inuyasha take stance beside the monk?"
It appeared to her that she would have a role in the wedding after all: demon tour guide.
"He is the 'best man.' He represents support and good faith on the groom's behalf. He is chosen by the groom to stand by his side through the ceremony." Sesshoumaru seemed willing to receive information, so she continued, "Usually a good friend, or brother assumes the role. If he so chose, he could have additional 'groom's men' as well, but the best man stands by his side."
As music began to play, Kagome and Kikyo appeared through the door side by side, wearing matching kimonos and carrying flowers. They smiled brightly as they made their way down the aisle, before taking positions on the other side of the alter than Miroku. Once they arrived, they noticed Sesshoumaru sitting beside Kaede, and beamed at him. A slight blush and a hint of shyness adorning Kagome's features. 'Back so soon?'
"What role do the mikos play?" he moved closer to the old woman so he could lower his voice. He was slightly offended that she didn't seem upset by the vicinity; quite the opposite, actually.
"Kagome is the 'maid of honor,' the female's counterpart to the best man. My sister is a bridesmaid." She would happily answer his questions, though she doubted she had much choice. He was a distracting presence, but she took his interest as a good sign of things to come. There had been a time not too long ago when his expressed disinterest toward humanity and their customs was about the best you could have hoped for. That he was taking time from his busy schedule to learn about them, it showed he was serious about his intentions to make them comfortable in his lands.
He nodded in understanding. The wedding march then began, causing all to stand. Sesshoumaru watched Kaede rise, and followed her lead. As Sango approached, he asked, "Why does her brother escort her?"
"He is giving away the bride. Usually this role is assumed by the bride's father. However, in his absence, a next of kin or father figure is acceptable. It symbolizes a transfer of protection from the family who has cared for her, into that of her husband. She is now his responsibility." Sesshoumaru absorbed the information.
The official then spoke his part, and the two exchanged vows. Every now and then Kagome would steal a glance at Sesshoumaru, which didn't escape his notice.
"I, Miroku, take thee Sango to love, honor and cherish. I offer you my protection and my complete fidelity."
"I, Sango, take Miroku to have and to hold. I offer my love, trust and kindness."
"Do you take this woman..." "I do."
"Do you take this man..." "I do."
Rings were exchanged. "The kit gives the rings?"
"He is the ring bearer. He keeps them safe until they are exchanged. The rings are always worn, and shows the world that the wearer is married, and therefore, off the market."
"Ah." Like a mark.
"If anyone knows any reason why these two should not be wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace." This was interesting. Sesshoumaru looked around the crowd, curious if any would speak.
"Then by the powers vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride." The crowd cheers and claps. Sesshoumaru claps lightly. Hands clasped; the couple made their way back up the aisle while rice is thrown at them.
"They are now going to consummate the marriage?"
Kaede slapped his shoulder lightly, earning a raised eyebrow from the dog demon.
"Knowing him..." she joked. "Nay, they will prepare for the reception. There is to be a feast with a cake. There are typically toasts given and stories told, and also dancing. Presents may be given at this time as well. After the reception, they consummate. Poor boy must wait a few hours yet."
Sesshoumaru frowned. "This One was unaware gifts were expected."
"Ye gave the bride the life of her brother. I expect that is more than sufficient."
He nodded, but still... He, of untold wealth, should not have come empty-handed. It reflected poorly on the West, and him.
At the reception, Sesshoumaru declined food, but watched in amusement as the bride shoved cake in her spouse's face for some reason. Inuyasha impressed him with his thoughtful speech. The boy wasn't particularly eloquent, but the humor involving the monk's lecherous exploits was received with the warmth that was intended.
Contrastly, the emotional toast her brother had given regarding their family had caused most of the crowd to tear up. And Kagome brimmed with a combination of happiness and sorrow as she wished the two good luck.
Sesshoumaru himself had given many a speech to demons on the battlefield, but had little experience in such a casual, friendly setting. None the less he stood, and the room fell silent.
"On behalf of The Western Lands I, Sesshoumaru, hereby congratulate the monk Miroku and the slayer Sango on their holy union." It didn't go without notice that a holy man and a demon slayer were being praised on their marriage under god by, in fact, a demon.
"I have made their acquaintance only recently, but the road we have walked together has been forged with the blood of friends and foe. Up to and including that of our shared enemy, the evil hanyou Naraku." There were boos for Naraku's name, and cheers for his death. "They have shown great strength and courage on, and off, the battlefield; and have proved themselves worthy in This One's eyes of being called great and skilled warriors both." Leave it to him to glorify carnage in a wedding toast. It could really have gone no other way.
"As my gift to them on this day, I hereby offer them the honorary titles of Lord and Lady within The Western Lands. This ensures my protection and support, and loyal alliance with the West." Sounds of surprise and approval swept through the room, "This courtesy also extends to, what is certain to be, their numerous offspring." This got a laugh from the crowd, and the couple smiled at one another.
"Raise your glass, and join me in celebration and congratulations." The crowd abided, and with that, the bride and groom were ushered to share their first dance. Before he could sit, Kagome made her way to him for the first time since he had arrived.
"Sesshoumaru," she greeted with a smile, "that was beautiful. I'm sorry I haven't been able to welcome you back. Maid of Honor stuff, you know."
"Indeed. It suits you." She did look very nice all dressed up. When she blushed, he continued, "I trust you have fared well since we last spoke?" It wasn't the speaking she was recalling.
"Three days?" she laughed, "Yep, I've been fine. Still a little sore...from the battle!" She flushed. What was wrong with her?
"Ah. Of course." Damn. He was doing it again. Only his eyes betrayed his amusement.
"H-How have you been?" She tried to save it, but he was not a gracious demon.
"Quite relaxed and content. From the battle." She was just too easy. Why was she so fun to tease?
Was he flirting with her? She found herself hoping he was. "We didn't think you'd make it. Will you be staying the night?" Smooth, Kagome. Real subtle.
"I must leave tomorrow night. However, they have agreed to remake the room next to yours for my use. Should I need it."
"Should you?"
Before he could answer, the newlyweds approached. "Lord Sesshoumaru? I would consider it a great honor if The Lord of the West would dance with me at my wedding..." He got the feeling they were up to something, but regardless, "I should consider it an honor to dance with the bride. Unless her husband..." The novelty of asking for permission was kind of fun.
"Not at all. Lady Kagome, may I have the pleasure?" He offered his arm.
"As long as you keep your hands to yourself, houshi," she threatened, for old time's sake.
"I'm a married man now! From now on, the only groping these hands will do is on my lovely wife," Sango rolled her eyes as she took Sesshoumaru's arm.
"See that you do monk," was his half-hearted warning.
Once off and dancing, Miroku waggled his eyebrows, "Looks like someone was eager to return to us. Perhaps looking to enjoy our miko's wonderful hospitality once again?"
"Save it for your wedding night, pervert," she tried.
"Don't be coy with me Kagome," he laughed. "You're happy he's here." She didn't attempt to argue. "Do you plan on seeing him tonight?"
"Well, all of my other friends will be on their honeymoons. We're bound to run in to one another." They shared a knowing smile, and glanced at the demon lord currently dancing with Sango.
"That was a lovely speech, Sesshoumaru. Thank you." He really was a graceful dancer. She didn't know why she expected any less of him.
"Hn."
"And your gift is so generous. But that wasn't necessary. You gave me back Kohaku. That is all I'll ever need."
"Nonsense." He regarded her a moment, "Has the monk informed you of the offer This One made him?"
"He has. Again, very generous." She allowed him to spin her. She wasn't much of a dancer, but with him taking the lead, he made it easy to follow.
"Will you accept?"
"I would love to come and help, but I think Miroku might be worried about me." He had reserves about bringing his demon slayer wife into the lion's den. Or dog's, as it were. With Sesshoumaru vouching for them, the risk was small. But still, any risk to his potential family was too great for him at this time.
"You have nothing to fear. I shall see to it." He was so confident. She could see why so many soldiers would follow him blindly into battle. "You will both be great assets to This Sesshoumaru. It is my hope that you will find your way to accept."
"I will talk to him."
"See that you do. It would please me to bring you in a most timely fashion." She thought she understood. Things were starting to take shape. Ever the brilliant tactician, he wanted his pieces in place as soon as possible. He had a plan.
"Excuse me, Lord Sesshoumaru. May I cut in?" Miroku took his wife back, leaving Kagome alone with the demon.
"Can I have this dance, My Lord?" There was always a hint of sarcasm when she called him that. Her lack of formality used to irk him. But the more time he spent around her; he came to realize that she meant no disrespect. She considered them equals. While that was irksome in its own rite, he found he couldn't care. Especially not now.
If delivering the killing blow to Naraku when he could not hadn't put them on equal footing, their activities later that night had pushed her over the top. She was comfortable with him. And, for whatever reason, he preferred it that way.
She brought something out in him. A playfulness he never knew he had possessed. Maybe he hadn't. But she was drawing it from him very often lately. He couldn't seem to help himself around her. Didn't want to.
"Are you sure, Miko? The last time we danced together, I wound up in your bed." He loved getting a rise out of her. But it didn't work that time.
"I know." Well now. This was interesting.
He hadn't come all this way just to sleep with her. Had he? Not consciously anyway. He'd wanted to see a human wedding and, in his way, support his brother's pack. His pack now, really. He wanted to know if they had an answer for him regarding his proposition that they come to his lands, and if not, see if there was any more he could do to convince them.
He was certainly aware laying with the miko was a possibility, if not a probability. He had enjoyed himself with her that night. He knew she did as well. And though no promises had been made, they each left with the understanding that whatever this was could be picked up at a later date.
He just didn't expect it to be so soon. She seemed a bit surprised by this as well.
'But not unreceptive.'
She slid a hand around his waist to draw him closer as they clasped a hand.
'Certainly not.'
"None of your 'future dancing' tonight?" He wondered.
"The night is young! I've barely had my sake."
"I hope you have not become a lush in my absence."
"Not at all. I need to have my wits about me. You know?" He did.
His hand on her hip moved up her back to press her slightly to him. He was careful not to cause her discomfort on account of his new armor. She looked up at him.
"So, the West must be in good hands, if you were willing to leave it unguarded," she prodded.
"The Western Lands are never unguarded. However, things are not as bad as previously perceived."
"You sure about that?" He raised an eyebrow. "No Western Soldier will be banging down your door in the morning?" Now she was being a flirt. He smirked down at her, causing a pleasurable jolt through her form.
"None who values his life." Kami, she just wanted to jump him right there. She had a little too much pride to drag him off the dance floor this early. But just barely. So, she forced it down.
He tried to ease the tension, "How have you been keeping occupied in the jewel's absence?"
"Mostly archery." Now they were in his wheelhouse.
"Keeping proficient with weaponry in the absence of an enemy. Smart miko."
"You doubted This Kagome?" he wasn't the only one who liked to tease.
"I should like to see your skill level." he wanted off the dance floor as well, so he gave her a graceful exit.
"Right now?" Yes.
"Why not?"
"Well, I promised Inuyasha a dance, but then we could go out back." Might as well get that dance out of the way now. Like, right now.
"Miroku?" she turned to him, "Where is Inuyasha?"
He flashed an innocent grin, "He had to leave on an errand. He said he would be back later."
Okay, she tried. She turned back to Sesshoumaru, "Well, then. I guess we can go."
A/N:
I'd be willing to bet money that Japanese weddings aren't like they are in America. I didn't really care to look into it, so let's just go with it! Also, I think Miroku is a Buddhist, but I'm just lumping god in with all religions.