The Heart of the Nile: Laughter in the Night
As the sun began to set Sesshomaru and Rin made their way into the dining hall. The roof was suspended by 6 pillars on each side making it open to the courtyard. A small fire in a golden firepot was burning with incense. It filled the air with rich fragrances of lavender and frankincense. The table could seat at least 20 people and it sat low to the ground with floor pillows for seat. As they were eating their dinner Inuyasha and Kikyo joined them and announced the news of the new member to the royal family on its way.
Celebration was soon heard all around the palace. As they were getting ready to leave the dining hall to retreat to their bedchambers a servant approached Sesshomaru with a papyrus scroll on a golden platter. As the servant bowed Sesshomaru took the scroll and unrolled it. As he read the message inside a scowl graced his elegant face. Once he was finished he passed the scroll to Inuyasha and dismissing the servant. As he was reading it Sesshomaru kissed his daughter goodnight on the top of her head and sent her on her way with Sango.
"Why is he coming here?" Inuyasha grumbled as he tossed the scroll on the table in disgust.
"I imagine he is coming here to inquire about the treasure. We have not dealt with him since the passing of my wife," Sesshomaru said as he took a sip of his wine. "I cannot imagine it would be to simply visit his older brother's family; especially so soon after we returned. He must of heard news of our success."
"You don't think it's because of Rin's birthday coming up do you?" Kikyo asked.
"Feh! My uncle hasn't seen his granddaughter since she was born. Don't give him such credit." Inuyasha scoffed.
"I agree. He is definitely here on alternative motives. We will need to keep an eye on him and whomever he brings with him. Inuyasha you will need to keep your eyes on his son if he too comes. You know how our cousin is with the ladies. Don't let him get too comfortable with Kikyo." Sesshomaru warned.
"If that asshole even thinks about touching my wife I'll kill him. Family or no family I'll have his head!" Inuyasha growled while taking hold of Kikyo around the shoulders.
"Let us pray to the gods it does not come to that. They will be here in two days time. We will need to be ready," Sesshomaru cautioned as he stood up to dismiss them for the evening.
By the time Sesshomaru entered his bedchamber the moon was beginning to rise in the evening sky. After pulling the little black box from his leather bag he opened the lid. As the music again began to play he laid it on the floor and waited for the magic to begin. He watched in fascination as the little pink stone began to sparkle in the moonlight. As expected a flash of light was made and the beautiful maiden of the night Kagome, daughter of the sea king Triton began to materialize. While her form continued to solidify Sesshomaru turned around to give her privacy. Not wanting to offend her by ogling her beautiful body again he held his hand behind his back with a gown for her to dress herself in.
Not sure if she'd be bare again when she exited the stone he'd asked earlier that day for one of the servants to leave a dress in his room. He knew the servant was confused but gave no answer as to why. When he felt her take it from his hand he knew his suspicions had been correct. She was not able to take items with her into the stone that were not from the time she'd been cursed. As she dressed he walked out to his balcony to observe the stars above. Soon he heard the soft pitter-patter of her bare feet approaching him. When he turned around his breath caught in his chest as he took in the vision before him. The dress looked like it had been made for her by the way it hugged her curvy figure.
It was a soft lavender cotton dress with a sheath of chiffon over top that was taught around her waist and flared out softly bellow her hips. On the right leg was a slit that stopped just bellow her hip. He could tell by the way she moved it made it easier for her to walk and didn't hate how it exposed her long slender leg to his eye. He also liked how the neckline hung tastefully atop her breasts and revealed a gentle cleavage line. It was graceful and feminine; not slutty or tacky. It also enhanced her strong collarbone and slender neck making the exposed skin look like it was begging to be kissed. The straps of the dress were secured by two golden rings with off the shoulder sleeves.
Every move she made looked enchanting and seductive. When she stopped in front of him he couldn't help but be pleased at how tiny she was. As she craned her neck back to look up his tall form it exposed more of the tops of her breasts to his amber eyes. Her blue eyes shimmered like the stars and her raven hair pooled around her waist. She was truly a goddess of the night and instantly fell pray to her spell.
"She's so beautiful..." he thought to himself.
"How is my Lord this evening," Kagome asked softly.
"This one is well." Sesshomaru replied making her smile. "How do you find your gift?"
"It is very comfortable thank you." Kagome said as she played with the gown between her fingers bashfully.
"Hm." Sesshomaru nodded as he returning his gaze to the stars above. "It suits you well. This one will be sure to have more made to your liking."
"You are too kind my Lord." Kagome blushed as she looked down at her feet.
"Care to join this Sesshomaru around the room?" He asked as he offered her his arm.
"That sounds lovely." Kagome smiled as she laid her other hand on top of his. As they walked down the steps she could see the little pond in the center of his bedchamber where they first met.
"I was wondering my Lord, while we are walking would it be possible to explore the palace? That is... if it is not of any inconvenience to you." Kagome asked with a light blush still on her face.
Her shy nature and innocent personality only added to her charm. He couldn't help but inwardly smirk a little. Unsure how to answer her just yet he led her over to a set of chairs near the pond. Here they could sit under the moonlight and gaze at the flowers scattered around the small pond. After considering her request he decided it would be best to keep her a secret a little while longer. However, he didn't want to keep her as a prisoner in his home.
Decision made he said, "This one would love to take you around his palace. Should his kingdom come to find who you are however he is unsure of how to keep keep you safe. What would you have him do?"
Uncertain how to answer him she looked down to her gown. As her fingers played with the layer of chiffon on her dress an idea came to mind.
"What if... you made me a vale? It would only need to covered half of my face. That way no one but you knows of who I am. I would be more comfortable and my identity can stay a secret?" she asked.
"Hm... that might work." He agreed as he stood up and walked over to his dresser along the wall.
With the new plan set he took one of his white cotton loincloths and tore a section off. He then sliced one of his golden ties and attaching them to two corners of the cloth. It would allow the vale to wrap around her head like a band and not risk falling off. He tied it off behind her head with the vale hanging down from the bridge of her nose. This covered her lower face and only allowed her eyes to be exposed. It was perfect. No one would be able to make out her identity. Taking her hand in his they walked towards the door. Once they made sure the cost was clear they snuck out into the night. They meandered around the palace exploring all the different rooms and courtyards.
When someone would approach them they would hide in the shadows and wait until they would pass. Kagome loved the art painted along the walls and pillars. She had never seen artwork like it before. She was also impressed with the size of the palace. The rooms were extravagant but not untastly and open to the elements allowing the breeze to flow freely throughout the home. The furniture was delicate in design and made with fine golden details, dark woods and bright colors. It was a beautiful home. After they finished exploring Sesshomaru showed her the stables behind the palace. His white stallion Entie greeted them with a loud whinny, shaking his head up and down while pawing at the gravel in his stable.
"Well hello there! It's nice to meet you too!" Kagome giggled and she reached up and rubbed his fuzzy nose with her hand. Her laughter was the most beautiful sound Sesshomaru had ever heard. It was light and bounced off of the air like the song of a bird. It brought a warm feeling to his heart he had not felt in a long time.
"This is my horse Entie. He has accompanied me through many battles." Sesshomaru said taking hold of the bridal around his face.
"It's nice to meet you Entie. You are very handsome," Kagome said with a smirk. Entie blow in her face making her vale ripple in the wind. The sensation tickled her nose making her laugh again.
"Would you like to see some of the city? We have a couple more hours left of moonlight if you would like to see it." Sesshomaru offered as he reached up and stroked Entie's neck.
"Oh… could we please? That sounds wonderful." She pleaded as she placed the palms of her hands on his broad chest as she looked up into his eyes. Her warm hands were like an electrical shock throughout his entire body.
Taking both of his hands and placing them over top of hers on his chest he said, "Then we shall go. Let this one prepare Entie and we will be on our way," he said with a soft smile gracing his face.
The subtle smile on his lips took her breath away. Once Entie was ready Sesshomaru put his hands around her slender waist and hoisted her up onto the saddle where her legs laid to one side. Putting his foot into the stirrup he pulled himself up behind her. He then grabbed the reigns from both sides and wrapped his arms around her. Being so close caused her to lean into his chest. Once they were settled Entie shot out of the stable, through palace gates and into the city bellow. As they gallivanted through the streets Kagome's laughter could be heard ringing in the air. They traveled all around the city checking out the markets, alleyways and small bridges throughout the city where the Nile branched off.
Much like the palace many of the buildings were painted with elaborate murals. Torches lite the streets making the city twinkle like stars in the night. The last place they came to was the Temple of Ra. Jumping off of Entie Sesshomaru tied off his bridal near a post at the temple gates. He then placed his hands around Kagome's waist and hoisted her off the saddle. Her body slowly slid down his form as they looked into each others eyes. The contact of their bodies rubbing against each other sent chills down their spines. After pulling his body and gaze away from her he held out his hand and led her into the temple. Still holding hands they explored the Temple of Ra.
While they were there Sesshomaru told her of their gods and some of the history of his people. He also told her about his family including his half-brother Inuhotep, his sister-in-law Kikyo and their expecting child. He also told her about his daughter Rin and the unfortunate death of her mother. Walking towards the back of the temple they approached the river Nile that ran along the back. The moon was low in the sky and daylight was approaching. Soon the temple would be filled with worshipers to welcome the arrival of the sun god Ra. Sitting on the cold stone floor Kagome fingered the flowers along the waters edge. Sitting on the floor behind her Sesshomaru pulled her back to sit on his lap causing her to lean against his chest as they watched the moon begin to set.
"Thank you for showing me around your kingdom. It is a beautiful city and it looks like your people are very blessed," Kagome said as she played with the palm of his hand and fingers as they rest in her lap. Sesshomaru rested his head upon the top of her head and he secretly inhaled her scent. She smelled of spring rain and water littlies.
"You are most welcome. This one also enjoyed this evening. He's never had to sneak around his own home before." Sesshomaru teased making her giggle. Looking back to the sky and the approaching sun he remembered she would be leaving him soon.
"He is sorry he cannot offer you more," he said sadly.
"Maybe one day you can, but for now I am happy," Kagome said as they continued to sit in silence.
It was then Sesshomaru remembered his uncle and the possibly of his cousin on the way to his home. He wanted to make sure she was aware of the approaching danger incase they became separated while they were visiting his home.
"This one's departed Father's brother and possibly his son is coming to visit tomorrow. This on is unsure of their motives but has a feeling they are coming in hopes of taking you away. This Sesshomaru wanted to let you know so that if something were to happen you should take caution from them if at all possible," he said while running his other hand through her soft hair.
"Thank you for warning me. What are their names so that way if they do approach me I will know to be ready?" Kagome asked as she further reclined into his chest. She loved how he made her feel safe and warm.
Bringing his arms to wrap around her tightly he said, "This one's uncle's name is Narakututmote and his oldest son's name is Kogatutmote. Uncle is known for the use of black magic and has earned the nickname of the Black Cobra from his sneaky war tactics. They are swift and deadly like the poison of a snake in the sand. His son is a womanizing dog. He prowls like a wolf hunting its pray. If he comes to you do not take notice of his affections. He easily becomes obsessive and possessive." Sesshomaru said bitterly.
Just then the sun began to peek above the horizon bringing its early rays with it. The sound of distant voices could be heard making their way towards them as the worshipers began fill into the temple. Kagome brought her hand and cupped Sesshomaru's cheek. She then pulled back her vale away from her lips and leaned forward, kissing the other cheek as she said, "I will hold your warning to my heart my Lord. Thank you again for this evening. It is a memory I will cherish always." As she finished speaking she vanished into sparkling pink dust and then a stone was nestled in her lavender dress and vale in his lap.
Sesshomaru brought his hand up to run his thumb over the spot her lips brushed against his check. He could still feel the ghostly warmth still lingering there. He sat a few more minuets watching the sun rise in the horizon before getting up clutching the stone, dress and vale in his hands and making his way out of the temple. Going down the steps to Entie he then unties him and rises up onto the saddle. Kicking his sides he make his way back to the palace, places the wishing stone back into the black box and begins another day without the beautiful maiden of the wishing stone. This was his second day without her and he was already missing her presence.
"What is this woman doing to me?" he thought to himself.
[End of Chapter 9]
Authors Notes: Pronunciations
Narakututmote - Na rah koo tuht moe tuh
Kogatutmote - Koh gah tuht moe tuh