Chapter Thirty-Six – Closing Ceremony

Stacks of books and scrolls covered the desk. Focused on the book in his hand, his finger paused from turning to the next page. Suddenly snapping the book shut, Sesshomaru tossed it aside. His brows furrowed into a deep scowl. The Eastern alliance with the South hindered any strategies of reuniting Inuyasha and Inari. Gazing at the map of the Eastern lands, his eyes narrowed. The Eastern Lord had always allied with any that dared to be an enemy of the West. Sesshomaru knew well of the passive hatred towards the West.

'Vermin,' he sneered while leaning against the back of his chair.

Knock Knock.

Peering past his long lashes, he said tonelessly, "Come in."

The creaking sound of wood resonated as a soldier bowed with his hands outstretched holding a scroll. "A message from the Eastern Lord, Milord."

What the East was trying to play at? As the scroll was placed on his desk, he eyed the Eastern seal with distaste. He flicked his fingers in the air to motion for the soldier to leave. With another bow, the soldier left the study room. Unraveling the scroll, the name of the sender caught his eye.

Lord Ryou.

'So, the Sho leader has finally accepted his daiyoukai rank,' Sesshomaru mused.

Lord Sesshomaru,

I have heard news of the Southern Lord objecting to Inuyasha's mating affairs. Upon accepting my responsibilities as the Eastern heir, I have negotiated with my Uncle to deny any form of alliance with the South concerning the threat of war. With this, I am certain the Southern Lord can be persuaded. I hope this will be useful in stopping Lady Kagome from using drastic measures.

Heir of the Eastern Lands.

A brow rose as he reread the last sentence. It seemed the 'Sho' leader understood Kagome very well.

BAM.

Hearing the doors swing open, he already knew who it was. Slowly glancing up from the scroll, Sesshomaru saw her strut towards him with a determined expression. Her hand firmly slammed against his desk as she said passionately, "Let's threaten the Southern Lord with war!"

Kagome carefully observed to see any changes to his expression. Noticing the ends of his lips twitch, she interpreted the motion as frustration and winced in worry. She knew her plan was insane, but still. She quickly exclaimed, "I shall use my title as 'Hime' and request all the ranks to remain neutral if we do go to war! I believe the Southern Lord will feel pressured to negotiate with us this way! I've thought over this a dozen times and I don't think we should give up on Inuyasha and Inari! They definitely deserve happiness!"

Her whole body tensed as she awaited his reply nervously. Her determination wavered when Sesshomaru handed her a scroll and motioned to read it. Confused and curious, she scanned the content. Her eyes brightened in recognition of the sender.

"Ryou!"

Sesshomaru watched in amusement as her face gradually shinned with joy and relief. But when she neared the end of the letter, his lips uncontrollably curled into a smile. Her expression switched from excitement to bewilderment. Her mouth hung open, speechless. Then, as if a realization switch was turned on, her cheeks flushed red and she yelled, "What does Ryou mean to say by STOPPING me from using DRASTIC MEASURES?"

Finally unable to hold it in any longer, a soft chuckle sounded from his lips.

Adoration.

Falling silent, she forgot her anger and watched her loved one reveal the gentlest expression. Etching the sound of his laughter in her memory, a flurry of butterflies fluttered in her stomach.

"Threatening a Lord with war is not considered drastic measures?" Sesshomaru said teasingly.

Kagome felt her cheeks heat up in embarrassment and looked away. Her vision switched focus and noticed the mess on his desk. The title of all the books and scrolls gave away what Sesshomaru was trying to do. A ticklish sensation filled her chest. He had been researching his own way to assist Inuyasha. Walking up to him, she wrapped her arms around his neck and placed a kiss on his cheek. Smiling, she said, "Well, that is why I have a mate who is more rational to stop me."

She watched in awe as his eyes softened at the word 'mate'.

Precious.

He was so precious to her.

She doubted she could ever feel anything but love for him. Gazing into his eyes, she wondered if he knew how expressive he actually was with her. With his eyes alone, she felt loved.

He reached out and lightly tugged her towards him. Positioning her onto his lap, he said, "Tonight's closing ceremony, you will be wearing the colors of the Western Lands."

Mate.

She knew he did not mean to order her. He was simply warning her of the negative feedback she might receive for being introduced as the future Lady of the Western Lands. Without hesitation, she whispered, "Gladly."

Drawing her close to him, he placed a kiss on the nape of her neck. Silently telling her she was cherished, his beloved, his only.

-The Evening-

Her heart beat thundered against her chest. An arm linked around his, she nervously curled her fingers to clench a bit of his haori. Approaching the grand doors to the ceremony hall, Kagome nervously glanced at Sesshomaru for courage. He leaned close to her and kissed her temple which immediately calmed her.

The heavy doors opened as rays of light embodied her. Every eye turned towards her and quietened. Walking towards the front, she could feel hundreds of eyes staring at her kimono colors.

She adorned an inner layer of magenta; the markings of royalty to the West.

Silk white fabric wrapped elegantly around her body; the color of a crescent moon, the Western Land symbol.

Specks of gold shimmered as the light reflected against her kimono while she walked; the beauty trait of the West.

A pink haori draped on her shoulder finalized the look.

Standing before the crowd, Kagome waved a hand in the air. At once, the closing ceremony began. Hushed voices dispersed amongst the crowd, while most continued to eye her. Disapproving expressions meant to be made discreetly entered her sight. Suddenly, she felt a repeat of the first time she appeared at the Hime ceremony with Inuyasha.

Rejection.

Glancing at Sesshomaru, she saw him make the most chilling expression towards the crowd. Immediately, the sinking feeling vanished for someone else appeared more angered for her sake. A peaceful smile rested on her lips as her heart soothed.

Scanning the crowd, she noticed Chika waving at her. She loosened her hold on Sesshomaru and whispered, "I'll be back."

Though she caught the hesitance in his eyes, she reassured him with a smile and walked off.

"I always knew you were something, Lady Kagome. But, to capture Lord Sesshomaru's heart is another level!" Kagome giggled at Chika's dramatic words. Slightly relieved that her friend was still acting the same, Kagome quickly hugged the confused 'Tsu' leader.

"Ah! Lady Kagome," a voice she didn't recognize called for her. Kagome turned to see several demonesses surround her. Noticing the colors of their red haori, she knew they were from the 'Jiki' rank. With only bad experiences of the rank, her expression unconsciously hardened.

"We've come to congratulate you on being titled as Hime," one princess voiced in fake sweetness. Eyeing the colors of the kimono, she continued, "You've also been chosen as Lord Sesshomaru's mate."

Kagome felt her brow rise at the bitter tone used to say 'mate'.

"How jealous we are of you," another princess said sugary.

"Now, now, before jealousy, she should be pitied."

Kagome made sure to appear clam. Only her eyes slightly appeared clouded in disbelief of the things being said to her.

Sparing no heed to their Hime's reaction, the ridicule continued, "Though you've gained the respect of some ranks, you haven't the slightest respect from the daiyoukai rank. You poor thing, I could do you a favor and get my Uncle –the Southern Lord –to accept you a bit more."

Secret smirks and glances were shared between the 'Jiki' princesses as if Kagome hadn't caught on to their game. Slit eyes looking down at her in disapproval. Their sleeves lifted to cover their malicious smiles.

"You bitc-"

"Chika," Kagome interrupted smoothly. She remembered Inuyasha asking her to stay silent when he dealt with the 'Jiki' rank. Finally understanding his protection, she couldn't risk Chika and the 'Tsu' rank getting involved. Resting a hand on top of Chika's, Kagome reminded, "You are the leader of the 'Tsu' rank."

Chika clenched her jaw and bit into her lips enough to spill blood. The pain would at least distract her. If only she was of higher rank. Then, she would gladly beat up these princesses who dared to insult their Hime.

"You will need my assistance, too, then. I am closest to Uncle Ryuu!" Comments were said with more malice as they gained more confidence.

Her mind blanked. The shock had sown her lips shut. She had prepared her heart for glares and hostile expressions, but she never thought to encounter their hatred first hand.

"Perhaps we should teach our Hime how to approach those above her."

How ironic. She could easily stand up to anyone in order to protect her friends, yet for herself…she couldn't manage to form a single retort.

"Yes, we could definitely give you some advice."

Feeling stuck, the frustration at her own helplessness grew.

"Kagome," an edgy voice interfered. Instantly, the air tensed as the 'Jiki' princesses cringed with fear. A faint scent of acid tainted the surrounding, causing those sensitive to smell shudder.

Sesshomaru stood by Kagome's side, reminding all who she belonged to, ruthlessly reminding the 'Jiki' of their place. Suppressed anger darkened his features. Merciless eyes glowered down at them, a warning that their sentence to death hung by a thread.

Grasping her hand, Sesshomaru said stiffly, "The Northern Lord is asking for you." Then, sharply glaring at the demonesses from the corner of his eyes, he seethed, "he wants your advice on something."

Blinking, Kagome realized that he was trying to tell the others that she had already been accepted by the daiyoukai rank. A burst of laughter slipped from her lips, breaking the tension.

The paralyzed princesses flinched and stared at their Hime in bewilderment.

"Thank you for offering your assistance, princesses. But it looks like I can win over the daiyoukai rank on my own," Kagome retorted in the same superficial voice. Grabbing for Chika, she followed Sesshomaru away from the crowd. From the position of his rigid shoulder, she could tell he was still very angry...for her sake. She stared at his back warmly.

He knew there would be ranks that would arrogantly reveal their disapproval. But still, watching fools look down on his beloved made it hard to control the thirst to see their blood shed. A low growl vibrated from his throat. A shade of crimson coated over gold.

In a hushed voice, she whispered, "Thank you, Sesshomaru."

Pain grinded at his heart.

How he wished to have the freedom to kill anyone that hurt her. His shoulders eased and squeezed her hand as he replied, "I will carry your burdens, too."

He secretly glimpsed at her from the side view. In that moment, his breath silently paused for she held the loveliest smile. Unable to look away, he watched in fascination the tender expression softening her pure blue eyes.

Enchanted.

Chika fell speechless and her eyes slightly hazed. She had witnessed the entire interaction between the two in utter shock. It was lucky of her to have caught Lord Sesshomaru gazing at his Lady in such a loving way. Feeling her cheeks burning and heart racing, Chika was certain such an expression should be illegal. Shifting her gaze to Lady Kagome, who looked cheerful, Chika felt confused by her calm reaction after receiving such a look.

"Inuyasha! You came back!" Kagome suddenly squealed as she broke free to run towards her friend. Chika watched in mirth as Sesshomaru cringed at the sight of Kagome tightly embracing Inuyasha.

Holding his hand, Kagome said, "Inuyasha, you must come with us. We are going to speak with the Southern Lord."

Inuyasha immediately looked at his brother in surprise. Seeing Sesshomaru nod, he assumed Kagome had found out. He knew Kagome was the type to do everything she could for her friends, but he already knew there was no hope. A sad smile appeared as he said, "Its okay, Kagome. I'll forget Inari soon-"

Ignoring him, Kagome dragged Inuyasha across the great hall until she spotted the Southern Lord. Burning determination grew the closer she approached the disagreeable demon. Lifting her chin, her footsteps rang harshly against the marble floor. Soon, her eyes met with the target. Arriving a feet away from him, she sharply halted. "Lord of the Southern Lands, I would like a word with you."

The Southern Lord scowled before it was quickly replaced with a smile. "Ah, Hime, you have this one's full attention."

Kagome caught his gaze flicker towards Inuyasha and slightly narrow. Taking a deep breath, she said, "I hope you will reconsider Lady Inari's future mate."

The Southern Lord managed to keep a stiff smile while he stated, "I believe I informed Lord Sesshomaru about my final decision…along with consequences if they are not heeded."

Inuyasha flinched away with a look of defeat. There was no way Kagome could negotiate with the stubborn old man. Suddenly aware of the presence beside him, Inuyasha looked up to see his brother staring at the scene with amusement.

"So, you will not negotiate with us?" Kagome reconfirmed.

"The South will wage war otherwise," the Southern Lord answered.

Chika had no idea why the South suddenly wished to go against the West, but she couldn't stand feeling helpless to assist Lady Kagome any longer. Chika voiced loudly, "Then by the Hime's command, the soldiers of the 'Tsu' rank shall not participate in this war you speak of!"

Blue eyes widened in shock at Chika's bold claim. Kagome noticed the 'Tsu' ranks gather in agreement; deciding to support their Hime.

"The 'Mu' rank shall also remain neutral," the Elder spoke and bowed towards her. Other 'Mu' ranked scholars followed and lowered their heads. Her heart warmed at the sight of such sincerity.

"So shall the 'Gon' rank," the leader added. A watery smile tugged on her lips as her supporters surrounded her. The 'Gon' leader shoved his elbow at the 'Shin' leader's ribs, making him cry out, "The 'Shin' rank, too!"

Kagome let out a light giggle. Meanwhile, the 'Shin' leader rubbed his sore side with a sheepish grin.

She could have never anticipated for a majority of the ranks to side with her. Scanning everyone's smiling faces, she knew she had discovered the hidden beauty of the demon society.

It was a beautiful sight.

The demon society that had always been hell for him seemed to have changed through Kagome's influence. Watching the ranks stare at their Hime with joy to be of help, Inuyasha grinned. She would never stop amazing him. In a smug voice, Inuyasha said, "Wage war against the West and the 'Jiki' rank will be neutral."

The Southern Lord struggled to control his indifferent expression. Slightly turning red with anger, the Lord sneered, "My decision is FINAL-"

A deadly tone intervened, "The Eastern Lord has written his withdrawal from any alliance with the South on this matter."

The Southern Lord paled.

"Father," Inari called appearing from the crowd. Her gaze met with Inuyasha's and unveiled the longing she felt. Mustering the last of her courage, she turned towards at her Father. The desires of her heart blatantly shown on her face; she wished for his blessings. Tears brimmed in her eyes as her voice trembled, "Please."

Cautiously waiting for a response, Inuyasha and Inari held their breath.

A tired sigh sounded from the Southern Lord. With a stern voice he said, "Fine, on the condition that you step down from Heir to the throne."

A bright smile crossed Inari's face as she exclaimed without hesitation, "I will!"

Within seconds, Inari dragged Inuyasha outside and headed towards the gardens.

Strand branches skimmed their clothes as they rushed by and rustled in their absence.

Deeper and deeper they entered into the gardens.

All shades of color filled their vision.

A world where no one else could interfere.

Nature surrounded them, each creation born without a care for status or reputation.

A world they lived in when they were young.

Their scents entwined in a dance amongst the wind.

Inari felt him lightly pull back in order to stop her. They had gone far enough. But she ignored him and kept walking on, unable to turn to face him yet. Tears had streamed down her cheeks and she was certain she looked like a mess.

"Inari," Inuyasha called her name softly. Feeling her resist again, he forcefully turned her around to face him and snatched her in his arms. She quickly tried to hide her face from him, but he gently cupped her cheeks and kissed her. Brushing his tongue along the bottom of her lips, she parted her lips.

Never did he dream to taste the lips of his first love. Deepening the kiss, he knew he could have no other.

Panting, her lips pulled away for air. Dazed eyes slowly fluttered open. Her one desire she had held on to since the moment she fell in love with Inuyasha…had come true. Pools of tears fell from her eyes. A sob quivered from her lips.

His forehead gently touched hers in comfort.

Joy.

Author's Note: To be continued… Yes, one more chapter left, dear readers. What did you think of this chapter?

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