Love and Pleasure – Chapter 9
If You Can't Take the Heat… Part 1
This chapter is the longest one so far, and it would have been even longer but I decided I would break it up into two different parts. I am so so so busy with RL and will attempt to update at some point soon, but I can't give you an exact date. Sorry!
So, what motivates me? Being well rested, Getting good/bad/interesting feedback on chapters, Not feeling rushed, Ice cream. (:
See you guys soon!?
xoxoTiff
We actually did just sleep, and Sesshoumaru didn't press it at all. We had gone to the onsen to bathe, taking our time, and simply walked to his room wearing simple clothes. After we got to the room he stripped and I admit that I took a few moments to just stare at his beauty. While I had been staring he had stripped me of my own clothing.
"Let us sleep," He had said, a glint of amusement in his eyes.
We had climbed in bed and it was absolutely impossible to ignore the pure maleness of him. Having him pressed so tight against the front of my body, I couldn't help but react and I knew he noticed. I think he had actually enjoyed making me so sexually flustered, which of course I didn't mind because it satisfied him in a different kind of way, but I was left feeling completely unsatisfied.
I woke in the morning, and to my surprise he was still deep asleep behind me. He hadn't shifted at all in the night, but apparently I had turned completely so that my back was against his chest. I didn't move, not wanting to wake him. I was used to a servant's schedule, getting up early to do chores. He was obviously not, but I was surprised nonetheless. I let a finger trail lightly over the arm that was secured around my waist, very possessive, even in his sleep.
He shifted immediately, even though it was barely a touch. I turned around in his arms and kept my body pressed tight against his. "Good morning, milord. Did you sleep well?" I leaned in to his chest, running my lips over the skin just above his light pink nipples.
"You move around a lot," He commented.
"I apologize. Does that mean you didn't sleep well?" I frowned. I didn't know I moved around…
"I slept fine." He shifted, rolling to lie on his back and let his eyes close gently.
I propped myself up on my elbow, studying his profile. His bone structure was perfect, high cheekbones, a graceful nose, lovely lips that were half parted and begging for a kiss. I leaned up and over him, not letting any portion of me touch his skin. I let my lips brush lightly against his, moving them back and forth to stroke his lips.
His hand was suddenly buried in my hair at the back of my head, pulling me closer so the kiss became deeper. His tongue found mine and we had a rough play of war for a few moments before his hand released me and I pulled away, grinning.
I let the sheet fall away from my body and climbed on top of him, the lower half of his body still blessedly covered. I bent down over him to lay soft, chaste kisses over his chest, around his nipples, over his stomach, below his belly button, and then traveling back upwards again.
"My patience is not endless," He whispered, no trace of what he was feeling underlying his voice.
I chuckled softly and sat up. "I'm just testing the limits, milord."
"Why?"
"Why not?" I smiled, shifting my hips from side to side and around in a small circle. I could feel an eager response within seconds and I let my satisfaction at that response show in my eyes. His eyes sparkled with lust as they slid over my naked body above his.
I slid off of him in a fluid moment and stood by his side, stretching my arms high above me and yawning.
"When will be leaving your lands, milord?" I moved to the chair across from the bed where the simple white kimono I had worn from the onsen was lying. I slid it over my shoulders and tied the obi loosely.
He had sat up and was leaning back by the time I turned around. "Afternoon." He motioned for me to come back to the bed and I smiled, sliding back next to him and curling my body around his legs. Though he had the sheet still pooled around his legs, it might as well have been nonexistent. I could feel every, every…, hard line of muscle.
He let his hand begin sliding through my hair and if I could have, I imagined I would have purred like a cat. I wondered if he enjoyed petting me like this, so innocently, or simply did it out of some instinct, truly seeing me as his own special pet.
"How will you address me this evening?" He asked, voice even and making my mind wander for a moment. If he were tied down and teased over and over, would this even voice break and would I hear all the passion and heat locked deep inside? I saved the rest of that thought for another day and shifted my head so I could look up at him.
"However you want me to address you," I answered matter-of-factly.
"Your plan is to have everyone believe that you are my new companion and you are strong, sexually active, and confident, and with me completely on your own free will. Is that correct?" He inquired and I frowned and then smiled slightly.
"It's not as if we have to act for all that… I am your new companion, basically, and I am strong, sexually active, and confident." I wasn't sure what he was getting at.
"Is the last true, though?" His head tilted a tiny, almost nonexistent motion.
I sat up and looked at him, considering the question. I was honestly confused at the point. "Yes, I am here willingly."
"I see." He nodded slightly. "When we are at the party you should address me more simply. It will help your whole plan." He suggested and I was more than surprised but I covered it immediately.
"I agree. What would you suggest than, milord?" I let my hand play up and down his thigh softly.
"Sesshoumaru will be fine. It will make a bigger impact as well," He commented.
"Is that because you demand, silently, the respect and honor of everyone? To call you simply Sesshoumaru either means you are privileged or you're foolish, right?" I grinned and slid over him, straddling his legs.
"Foolish, yes." His eyes were boring into mine and I slid closer so our upper bodies were painted against each other's and our groins were pressed intimately close.
"I imagine those that have been this," I breathed against his ear when I said, "close to you, have not survived to enjoy the privilege…"
"You would be correct," He answered, though he didn't have to. I knew the answer.
"Do you want me to be forward at that ball? Towards you, I mean." I brought my head back in front of him, to see his eyes, bringing my hands up to hold his cheeks and trace his lips with my thumbs.
"Do as you wish but remain formal, polite, and you cannot openly insult anyone," He instructed, somehow acting and speaking without thinking about my thumbs stroking his lips.
"As a companion of yours, Lord Sesshoumaru, how will I be expected to act?" I was unsure if he ever brought companions. I imagined, in the past, it was only whores.
He seemed to think about it for a moment. "I do not know how exactly you will be expected to act."
"Well, tell me how other companions or Ladies act," I suggested.
"Most companions act possessive, royal, important, privileged." He made a face as if he considered them distasteful and I couldn't agree more.
"Never mind then. I will judge the situation when I am there and decide how I should act." I thought for a moment and then asked, "Am I allowed to be insulting if someone insults me first?"
"You cannot openly insult anyone," He repeated.
"So if it is subtle?"
"Then, fine."
"How do you usually view companions?" I inquired.
"I don't usually bother noticing companions," He said simply.
"Will everyone assume I am just another whore?" I said, evenly, no trace of upset. I simply needed to know how they would view me.
"At first, maybe. Once they feel your power, and notice the weapon that will be on your leg," He paused and moved his hand to rest on my upper thigh where the dagger would lay before saying, "and also hear you speak, they will understand you are not at all a whore."
"How will they regard me once they realize all of that?"
"They will be more wary, more considerate of what they say and how they say it around you. Some will even be more open, try and gain your affections, to perhaps sway you into coming to their side of things," He explained and I nodded.
"That will be how Junpei acts. He will be very forward sexually, and he'll make sure to do it right in front of you as well as try to get me alone with him," I informed him.
"He'll be waiting to see what kind of reaction it stirs out of me," He assumed.
"Correct. I'm not really sure what reaction would be best though," I mused, frowning.
"I will act as I would normally." Both of his hands were on my legs now.
"That will do fine, I'm sure." I smiled and then slid off of his lap fluidly and moved in a slow dancing movement across the room.
He stood up and moved to his armoire, dressing quickly and smoothly. I admired him while he dressed; a small ignition of lust visible in my eyes when he turned to me. He smirked ever so slightly.
"Breakfast should be ready, right?" I asked in a small voice.
"If you're in the mood to eat, yes." The way he phrased it made me chuckle.
I walked closer to him and then stepped up so my body was pressed against his. "I'm in the mood for a lot of things, but I think I can hold off my carnal desires for a little longer. Can you control your desires?" I pressed my lips against his jaw line gently.
"I have perfect control," He responded icily.
"Good, then we should go eat breakfast," I suggested.
"Very well." He glared slightly and I slid my arms through his with a smile as we headed down for breakfast.
I was in my room, being dressed by two servants who were making sure there wasn't a wrinkle anywhere and that everything was perfectly placed. It was spring, and so the expected colors to wear to a gathering would be soft greens, pinks, whites, yellows, and browns.
I had decided, instead, on a lovely, eye-catching royal blue for the kimono. It went down to just above the middle of my thighs and dipped a little lower than is usually acceptable, showing a generous amount of cleavage. The obi was stunning silver and the back fabric tail went all the way down to just above my ankles so I wouldn't trip. There were silver etchings of flowers along the kimono that did go with the spring theme.
I couldn't decide if I wanted my hair up, or down, or some other style. While I deliberated, one of the girls fastened an exotic leather collar around my neck. It was two inches in length, and very thin for width, not even irritating my throat. It was coated in silver paint with four blue rubies equal distant from each other. It laced in the back with a few long silver strings that trailed to the middle of my back decoratively.
I finally decided that the contrast of the deep blue silk of the kimono, and the fiery red of my hair would be more catching if the hair was down. I didn't want to look untamed and wild, but instead refined and graceful, so I had one of the girls braid it in a simple and loose style.
"Commander Nijito also had matching cuffs made for your ankles if you so wished, milady," One of the girls informed me, taking them out to show me.
They were similar versions of the collar, 3 inches in length, thin in width, and 4 rubies equal distances from each other. I put them on each of my ankles, and saw that the back of them was without leather, only a series of criss-cross laces that tied tight in a bow.
I stood, looking at my feet and trying to decide if I liked the cuffs or not. I walked around and they weren't as uncomfortable as I had feared them to be. I decided I would keep them on and see Sesshoumaru's reaction to them.
"I'll wear them for now, thank you." I nodded at each of the girls.
"Would you like sandals, milady?" The other girl asked.
"No, I'll be going barefoot." I shook my head gently and went to the side of my bed where I still had my suitcase sitting. I took the oil out of it and dismissed the two girls before sitting on my bed and stretching my legs out. I lathered my tan skin to give it a more glowing look. After I finished my legs and feet, I lathered my arms, chest and neck. Then, I carefully, and not as abundantly, lathered my face. It gave a soft glow and enhanced my eyes considerably, which were a gentle, but bright, green framed by thick lashes.
"Asami?" Niito's voice from the other side of my door.
"Come in To-kun!" I called and slid off the bed, so that when he came in he got the full view of me.
I could see him control his eyes and he met mine immediately, not wandering. He glanced down once, simple, without letting his eyes fill with any emotion. "You look lovely Asami. Nijito did well." He bowed his head slightly and I took in his appearance.
He was dressed in a shiny, black silk, with a red sash and two bare swords at his side, sleek, silver, dangerous. They stood out amazingly against the black ensemble.
"You purposely wore black so the swords would stand out," I stated.
"Yes. My brother, Koufuu, and Akihiko will all be dressed the same. We want to make sure everyone is clear how important you are to Sesshoumaru and to do that, we want to remind them of who exactly are his strongest commanders, and soldier in Akihiko's case. I will also be speaking with Masaharu-san, who will regard you as an equal, or more, and make sure his opinion is clear, which will mean a lot."
I just nodded throughout his explanation and smiled as he handed me my dagger I had chosen and the leather band that wrapped around my thigh to hold it.
"I replaced the red rubies for blue, to match your outfit," He mentioned as I slid the dagger out of its sheath to relearn it for a moment. When I was satisfied I slid the sheath into the leather strap, and then the dagger into it.
"Are you ready to go, Asami?" Niito asked, offering his arm. I smiled, nodding, and took his arm, and we were off.
We met Sesshoumaru in his study downstairs and he was dressed in his usual garb, except with the long fluff around his body, almost like an incredibly long tail. He also had his black and silver chest plate on with a yellow and royal blue sash around that, holding his gleaming swords in place. He looked immaculate. I noticed that the blue on his sash was the exact color of my kimono and it made me feel like an extension of him.
When he saw me he seemed to assess me for the same length of time I had him. His eyes traveled along each of my legs and stopped at my ankles, considering the cuffs.
"Take those off. I want the marks to be visible," He instructed and I nodded with a smile, untying the ankle cuffs and setting them aside. I twirled slowly and then stepped up close to him, tracing my finger down the chest plate until his sash stopped me. It was tied in a bow, but that didn't give it a feminine look at all. He was so utterly masculine and strong and ethereal.
"Is it my turn now to tell you to take something off?" I whispered, letting my voice dip into a sultry purr.
His voice was utterly even, no inflection that would tell me what he was feeling, when he responded, "We do not have time."
"Very well." I nodded with a frown and then slid to his side, letting an arm encircle his while my other hand rested on his arm gently. "Later, then," I added on in a whisper and he only glanced at me briefly before walking.
"Are all the guards ready, Niito?" Sesshoumaru questioned.
"Yes, milord. Myself, Nijito, Akihiko-san, and Koufuu-san will travel with you both by air. The other six guards have already been sent to the ball by ground since it will take longer for them. They should arrive there just before us."
Sesshoumaru nodded and we moved past Niito and out of the study. Sesshoumaru led and I followed easily, keeping my arms around his.
Niito moved up to my other side and smiled. "Your sisters are waiting by the carriage to wish you a safe journey. I told them you wished to see them before you went to the ball. I also explained to them that because of their age they would not be able to attend with you."
I stopped and then smiled widely at Niito, bowing low. "I thank you for your thoughtfulness," I murmured before returning to Sesshoumaru, who had stopped just past me.
When we stepped outside I saw Mai and Ryoka standing a few feet from the dragon and staring at it with wonder, even though they'd already seen it once.
"Girls," I called, separating myself from Sesshoumaru and moving towards the twins.
They turned and ran to me, keeping their distance and not hugging me so they wouldn't mess up the kimono or the oil I had lathered on.
"I hope you have a lot of fun! I'm so sad that we can't go!" Mai said, pouting stubbornly.
"Niito-san said it was because we were too young," Ryoka added on, but she was looking rather solemnly at me and I just nodded to the question in her eyes. Ryoka had grown up much faster than Mai and I always found it harder to treat her like the child she actually was.
She nodded and tugged on Mai's arm, giving her twin a smile. "Let's go Mai. We can play in the garden."
"Bye Onee-chan!" Mai said, Ryoka echoing her as they ran away.
I sighed softly as I watched them leave and then turned back to the group of men. Niito wasn't exaggerating. Nijito, Akihiko, and Koufuu were all dressed immaculately in black with gleaming swords at their sides. The only differences were that, though Akihiko was wearing a red sash as well to hold his swords at his side, Nijito and Koufuu were both wearing a gleaming blue, the same shade as my kimono.
I gestured towards the sashes and looked to Niito. "So it'll be clear who is guarding who?" I asked.
Niito nodded, smiling slightly. "We should go now, so we are not too late," He stated, motioning towards the carriage.
Sesshoumaru actually helped me in the carriage in a very gentlemanly manner which slightly shocked me, because though I saw him as a powerful leader, a beautiful man, a breath-taking lover, a gentleman was not a word I would have used to describe him. I settled on the right side of the carriage and Sesshoumaru slid in next to me. The four guards slid in and sat on the left side, looking slightly uncomfortable squished together. I almost said something to Niito but he just shook his head discreetly.
"I hope the evening will not be filled with too much hostility…" I murmured, staring out my side's window.
"It is a ball. It will be elegant and fun and exciting," Nijito explained with a flourishing gesture.
Koufuu actually grimaced. "Asami-san, you will be something new and lovely to the society, and as well as a novelty simply because Sesshoumaru-sama has not brought anyone like you to any gathering. There will be much talking, getting to know you, and you must be conscious of everything you say, how you say it. It will be fun, it is a ball indeed, but there will be much careful maneuvering you must do," Koufuu explained and I gave him a wide smile, bowing my head. Perhaps he took after Niito.
Niito was smiling too, but it was less obvious. "Thank you," I said, letting my smile become smaller.
I rested my hand on Sesshoumaru's thigh, letting it linger up and down while I rested my eyes.
"We are not as far from the Southern Lands as Jiro's lands were from mine. You do not need to sleep," Sesshoumaru spoke softly, as if not to wake me, even though I wasn't sleeping.
"Don't worry my lord. I'm not sleepy at all." I leaned in to press my lips to his neck. "Who knows how long it will take to tire me out tonight," I whispered, trailing my hand further up his thigh, but staying just a space away from his manhood.
He ignored me and I just laughed softly, moving so that my head rested against his arm, using the fluff that was so delicately wrapped around him as a sort of pillow.
When we began descended I sat up straight to look out the window. The castle was grand, of course, and there were lights everywhere. There must have been hundreds of candles to illuminate the night so fully. I could see people gathered in a garden area, and I could easily hear talking and smell the food below.
"Quickly, before we land, milord. If I harmed someone, but did not kill, would it be easily forgotten about?" I asked, staring him straight in the eyes.
He scowled and then turned to Niito. "If she somehow ends up alone with Junpei, I will have Nijito beheaded in front of you," He threatened and then turned to watch as we descended.
When I turned away from Sesshoumaru Niito caught my eye and he had a warning deep inside.
"Be patient, my friend," He murmured, as if soothing a child to just wait a little longer.
I just frowned, letting the sadness fill my eyes for just a moment. I mourned the loss of my sister's innocence briefly and then took a deep breath, collected myself, and gave just a small stretch as we finally landed.
Niito and Nijito stepped out first, then Sesshoumaru, who helped me out of the carriage. Koufuu and Akihiko were next. I linked my left arm through Sesshoumaru's and acted as the dainty companion that no one would believe I was. The dagger's sheath on my right leg was obvious against the tan of my skin.
Nijito was off to the side and a little behind me, Niito in the same position on the other side by Sesshoumaru. Akihiko and Koufuu were further behind us all.
We walked at a simple pace towards the two front doors. There were candles along the pathway so that we would be able to see our way and at the end of the path two servant boys were holding the doors open. I could hear soft music and a hum of chatter.
"Do you dance, Sesshoumaru?" I asked, turning to look up at him with a smile.
"On occasion," He replied as we arrived to the front doors.
"Good evening, the ballroom is down the hall and to the right," The boy to the right recited clearly.
I offered a small nod of my head as we passed and entered the ballroom. The ceilings were high and there were six candle-filled chandeliers throughout the room. There were tables situated around the room and large area for dancing. A group of men clad in dark green were to the side of the dance area producing a lovely rhythm and beat.
I scanned the rest of the room, taking in faces, outfits, colors, obvious statuses: slaves, ladies, mistresses. When I saw Bunmei I almost didn't recognize him. He was still the tall, strong, and overpowering man I remembered him to be. He had a small beard along his face that surprised me. He was completely clean shaven years and years ago. His hair had also grown longer and more unruly.
When I snapped back to reality I realized that Sesshoumaru was looking down and to the side at me. My arm had unconsciously tightened around his and my other hand clung to his forearm, nails digging into his skin underneath the edge of his sleeve.
I relaxed my grip on his arm, and moved my other hand to rest on his sleeve, instead of underneath. "I apologize," I whispered so only he would hear.
He simply nodded. "We will address him before others, him being the host," He informed me and I just nodded.
I relaxed as we walked and let myself slide into who I've become, instead of focusing on who I was so long ago. I was a beautiful, strong, seductive woman, and he would be envious of Sesshoumaru for me.
A small smile graced my features and I let my eyes flit confidently around the crowd. We walked around the dance area and towards Bunmei who was talking with someone. There was a tall figure just behind him that I hadn't seen quite clearly and it was obvious who it would be.
Bunmei was dressed in a rich red with gold and purple designs. He had a gold sash around his waist that held one simple sword. He wore no armor and I almost laughed. He was so utterly confident. Over-confident actually…
His brunette hair was unruly but the pure elegance of his outfit kept him from looking untamed. I could see most of Junpei now and he was dressed in a beautiful silk white, a striking brilliance to his darkly tanned skin. He was much darker than me. He had a simple red sash with three different swords at his side. He wore no armor, but not just out of confidence, but because he moved more agilely without it. His light brown hair was down to the middle of his back and looked utterly perfect. He must have been growing it out for a while now.
I took a deep breath and kept myself calm. We weren't far now and as we stepped up closer Bunmei turned to look at who was approaching them. He stopped talking and simply stared at me, seeming confused for the briefest of moments. Junpei seemed to realize something was off and stepped away from him so he could see us clearly and his eyes widened ever so slightly.
"This is the Asami Benito was rambling about?" Junpei asked in utter disbelief.
"Junpei," Bunmei's voice lashed out and Junpei straightened up immediately. "You are not to speak to such a fine lady so rudely," Bunmei instructed, his eyes showing he was annoyed, but I wasn't convinced that it was all Junpei's doing.
Bunmei stepped forward and I just watched him. He reached to take my hand and he lifted it gingerly, kissing the back of my fingers briefly before moving away. "It is such a pleasure to see you again, Asami-san."
Junpei stepped up next, bending over and keeping his eyes on mine completely. I watched him with an amused smile and as soon as he touched my skin with his lips I focused and thrust my power through the contact and deep into his body. He took a deep, shuddering breath and stepped away and I cut off the power immediately, so that he would believe that only occurred when touching.
His eyes were a little wild but he worked hard to control himself and after a few moments of deep breaths he was completely normal again, staring at me seriously now.
"Lord Sesshoumaru, it is so good to see you again, and I received the signed treatise of three months. We will have to discuss later about furthering this treaty. Might I ask what this lovely lady is doing in your midst?" Bunmei, ever so formal…
"Asami is my companion, and newest elemental," He said simply, ignoring the comment about furthering the treaty.
"Truly? She is an elemental? I wasn't sure Benito was in his right mind when he returned from visiting your lands. He kept going on and on about a strong new woman enjoying your company. I never even thought to the young Asami I haven't seen in years…," He paused, thinking, and then narrowed his eyes towards me the slightest bit as he asked his next question. "When did you discover that little gift, Asami-san?" Bunmei inquired, trying to be friendly.
"When I was much younger, Lord Bunmei," I spoke for the first time in years to them and Junpei was eyeing me carefully, taking everything in.
"I see…" Bunmei was frowning and chuckled softly. "I suppose I lost out on a wonderful prize," He attempted to pass it off jokingly.
"You most certainly did," I spoke clearly, confidently, and letting just a little bit of sex fill my eyes and voice. He noticed and scowled.
"We must attend to something for a moment remember, Bunmei-sama, but when I get back, I would be interested in a dance with you, Asami-san," Junpei requested cordially.
"Perhaps, if I am not busy," I shrugged gently and turned to Sesshoumaru, smiling softly. "Sesshoumaru, will you dance with me now?"
"Not now," He stated and I pouted jokingly.
"Then may I go and dance once with Nijito-san?" I requested, letting one hand play along his arm.
He glanced to Nijito and then back to me, nodding. Niito stepped up, glancing once at Bunmei and Junpei. He stepped in close, whispering in my ear low enough that it was practically a breath. "We will be very close. Do not accept a dance from anyone else without having Nijito in sight."
I nodded solemnly and he smiled. "We'll be back, Mi-chan, we're going to greet the other Lords and Ladies," He said loud enough for everyone to hear, but soft enough that it was still personal.
Junpei was staring at Niito with a question in his eyes and then frowned, whispered something to Bunmei and they both left the ballroom after giving us a small nod. Sesshoumaru, Niito, and Akihiko wandered off as well to greet others probably and Nijito took my hand gently, leading me to the floor.
He held me gently, and at a respectful distance, and we danced. It was slow and smooth and lovely. Dancing was such a passion of mine. After a moment Nijito pulled me a little closer and began to speak.
"Bunmei noticed when you addressed Sesshoumaru-sama so casually," He commented.
I nodded. "Yes, and Junpei noticed how friendly Niito was with me."
"You should dance with him later on. Niito will want to know what he wants to talk you about," He suggested, scanning the crowds.
"Agreed," I replied, although I was disgusted by the idea.
We danced for the rest of the song and into the half of the next song before we spoke again.
"Bunmei and Junpei are back. Bunmei is chatting with some of his guests. Junpei is watching us discreetly and speaking to another guard that came back with them," Nijito whispered in my ear briefly and I just laughed softly as if he had humored me in some way.
"We should exit the floor now, and go find Sesshoumaru," I suggested, taking his arm as we maneuvered away from the other dancers. Junpei began moving towards us, and at the same time I noticed Sesshoumaru and Niito walking our way, with Masaharu tagging along.
Both parties arrived at the same time and I slid to Sesshoumaru's side, curling my arms through his.
"Asami, it's nice to see you again," Masaharu spoke gently, smiling, and bowed reverently, taking my hand and kissing the back of it.
"You as well, Masaharu," I greeted him, bowing my head slightly.
Junpei was almost glaring at Masaharu and I was confused as to why but didn't want to ask so outright. "Asami-san, I was wondering if I could interest you in a dance now," Junpei requested very politely, but quite earnestly.
"Asami, you should greet the other Lords before you dance again," Niito suggested, smiling.
"Sesshoumaru, what would you have of me?" I asked, looking up at him questioningly.
He glanced sideways and down at me, considering. "It would be polite if I introduced you to a few select guests."
I grinned, amused at the idea that he considered it to be polite. He probably didn't care anyways. I simply nodded and turned to Junpei. "It will have to be later on then, Junpei-san. I would not want to be impolite to anyone." This was ironic to say, since by refusing Junpei I was being impolite to him.
Sesshoumaru turned and moved us towards a small group. It appeared to be an older man, black hair with flecks of grey, with a woman by his side, older than me, but still beautiful in a youthful kind of way, and a young boy, maybe 15, talking to them rapidly.
Masaharu spoke to the right of me. "This is my Lord, and Lady, and their son. Ouji, Raina, and Daigo," He explained and then walked ahead to say something quickly to Ouji.
We arrived and stopped a couple of feet away. Our guards were behind us and Masaharu stood in the middle between us, and his people.
"Lord Ouji, Lady Raina, Daigo-san, this is Asami-san, Sesshoumaru's companion," Masaharu made the introductions simply and then stepped slightly back.
I bowed to them, murmuring a 'lovely to meet you'.
"Companion for the evening, or simply his companion?" Raina questioned, eyebrows arched and lips twisted into a scowl.
"His companion, though I wouldn't agree with it being so simple." I chuckled softly, lessening the insult easily. She had been insulting first anyways, with the sarcastic 'simply'.
Sesshoumaru squeezed his arm around mine the slightest bit.
"It is lovely to meet you Asami-san, you are a beautiful addition to Sesshoumaru's entourage," Ouji offered kindly and I smiled, bowing my head with a small 'thank you'.
"Asami-san is also one of Lord Sesshoumaru's newest elementals," Masaharu informed his Lord.
Ouji raised an eyebrow at this and smiled. "Indeed, you are a wondrous addition. What element do you hold?"
"Fire," I answered simply.
"Ah, just like my Masaharu. What a lovely coincidence. I'm sure you two have much to talk about. Fire elementals seem so rare these days, at least, more rare than the other elements," He seemed to muse, letting his thoughts take him away for a moment. "I know Junpei-san is a fire elemental, and a strong one, but he certainly doesn't strike me as the social type. Please, indulge in conversation as much as you'd like, I don't seem to be the focus of tonight, and therefore doubt I will have much use of any guards." He quipped, grinning slightly around the room and letting his eyes rest on each of the guards with us.
I simply smiled and shrugged bashfully as if I were embarrassed by the attention. "I will certainly indulge in conversation, thank you for the opportunity."
"Lovely. Sesshoumaru, might we walk for a moment and discuss a few matters? Your lovely companion can take a seat and enjoy Masaharu's company for a bit," Ouji suggested, glancing at his mate, who simply nodded and walked off with their son to go mingle.
I was slightly frustrated that this man so easily dismissed my presence, but he also did it in such a simple and polite way that I didn't want to complain.
Sesshoumaru nodded though and I slid my arm from him and bowed slightly to him. "Call for me whenever you wish my presence again, Sesshoumaru," I murmured, loud enough for them to hear but soft enough to be personal.
He simply glanced at me, the slightest warning in his eyes, to behave probably, and then he left with Niito and Akihiko following close behind. Koufuu was standing near me but being utterly quiet and extremely alert.
"I suggest we sit with your guards a little farther away and keeping watch. Junpei has his eyes on us and it will be curious to him that you and I, both strong fire elementals who already are acquainted with each other, are speaking so privately," Masaharu whispered, standing close to me. I simply nodded and linked an arm through his, walking towards a small table off to the side of the room.
Masaharu and I sat down by each other, moving our chairs so we would be facing each other. I spoke clearly and evenly when I looked to Koufuu and Nijito, "Can you both give us some privacy, please?"
Nijito gave a question in his eyes but I simply shook my head and pointed to where I wanted them to stand. Koufuu simply nodded, moving to the spot and keeping his back towards me. Eventually, Nijito followed suit.
"What age did you discover your elemental abilities?" Masaharu inquired, leaning forward slightly.
"I was fourteen when it first arose in me," I answered.
"Do you know what level you were when it first came up?" He seemed truly interested and I smiled.
"I don't know really. I was focused on control. I barely slept back then because whenever I had time to myself I was meditating and exploring my mind and practicing control," I explained.
"Why was it so important to practice control?" He was confused.
"I suppose you and Niito haven't spoken much yet…," I murmured, thinking.
"Is the answer something you can't speak about?"
"I'm not sure if I can or not and so I was hoping Niito would have gotten a chance to speak with you because then he could inform you of all the necessary information," I said, but was aware that this was probably just inciting more curiosity in Masaharu.
"I see…," He frowned, thinking to himself.
"To put it short, I used to belong to Lord Bunmei," I said simply.
His eyes snapped to mine and he nodded solemnly. "I understand. Goodness… To imagine him with two strong fire elementals under his control, all of the other lords would be at his mercy you realize?"
I nodded and shrugged. "That had not been my motivation but I can certainly comprehend that he would have been the strongest lord."
"He would have had me killed off and he would then have the only fire elementals known to exist right now," He said seriously, considering the possibilities of that.
"I didn't realize fire elementals were so rare," I mentioned.
"Yes. Earth is most common, then wind, water, and finally fire. There are many earth elementals, but most aren't strong enough to be worth anything in a war, same with wind. Water and fire are rare and helpful no matter what level," He informed me and I nodded, taking it all in.
"Lord Bunmei collects elementals whenever he comes upon them, and simply hopes they'll grow in power someday," I said, disgusted.
"Yes, I've realized that." He nodded. "Many Lords have hidden elementals, ones they'll use for surprise when the right time comes." He said quietly, looking straight into my eyes and being very serious. "Therefore you should always be cautious when in someone's presence, either privately or publicly." There was the smallest hint of a warning in his voice.
I stared into his eyes a moment longer and then nodded. "I understand. Perhaps one day we'll be able to discuss that subject more. At the moment a gentleman is approaching us it seems."
Masaharu nodded and then looked behind him. "That's Senri-san, one of Bunmei-sama's commanders, second to Junpei-san," He explained. Nijito stopped him, asking him questions and then turned to come to me while Koufuu remained blocking the visitor.
"He would like to speak privately with Masaharu-san," Nijito spoke evenly, giving off the vibes of a true guard.
Masaharu frowned and then nodded. "He wants me out of the way so Junpei-san can have a dance with you," He mumbled.
"That's fine. Niito will want to know what Junpei-san wants to discuss with me anyways." We stood and Masaharu smiled, bowing slightly to me and then whispering in my ear.
"Don't end up alone with Junpei-san," He warned and I just smiled, nodding.
"I'm not allowed to be alone with him under Sesshoumaru's strictest orders. Nijito-san will be beheaded if I go somewhere alone with him," I informed him.
He seemed surprised for a moment and then laughed. "You're lovely, Asami-san, and I do hope to get to know you better." He bowed one more time and then left to meet Senri, who murmured something under his breath before they disappeared down a hallway.
Nijito and Koufuu came back to me. "What now, Asami-san?" Koufuu questioned.
"We walk for a moment. Junpei will be back soon to ask for a dance, and this time I will grant him that," I explained, walking slowly around the dance circle with Koufuu and Nijito following closely.
I noticed Junpei standing just ahead of me but I didn't give him any eye contact. When we were a few feet away from him he turned all of his attention to me and away from the man he was speaking with.
"Ah, Asami-san… All done saying your 'hellos?" He questioned, letting a false friendly smile light his face.
"For now, Junpei-san. Sesshoumaru was dragged off by Lord Ouji and so I sat with Masaharu and discussed a few things," I said off-handedly.
"Asami-san, are you really being that rude to address them so simply? Or are you really that close?" His question held immense sarcasm and insult but he kept the smile on his face.
"To be so rude to a lady, where are your manners?" Koufuu muttered, acting very defensive. I turned, giving him a small smile and shake of my head before turning back to the tall man before me.
"It would be that I'm quite close to both of them Junpei-san. Is that so hard to believe? Do you think my company that poor? Because I assure you, I am nothing like the person you knew so many years ago." I had let my voice drop lower, not feigning any type of friendly banter.
His eyes seemed to spark, not in anger, but in interest and he stepped slightly closer, letting his own voice drop. "I can certainly see that you are a different person, and I am very interested in getting to know the new and improved you." The sexuality in his voice was subtle but I could pick it up and I just grinned, shaking my head.
"I do not want you and you cannot persuade me into being interested in you. I don't think you'd be able to compare to what I have now, anyways. So drop your act," I demanded quietly, annoyed.
Junpei licked his lips slowly, stepped even closer to tuck a stray hand of hair behind my ear and whispered for only me, "Who said I was acting?" He stepped back and bowed low, offering his hand. "Might I have a dance?"
"Asami-san, perhaps we should find Sesshoumaru-sama?" Nijito suggested and I just turned, shaking my head and then returning my focus to Junpei and taking his head, to his great delight.
I kept my guard up and didn't let my power go, not feeling it necessary to demonstrate my skills again to him. He led me to the dance floor and then spun me around gracefully before ending with my left hand and his right clasped together, his left on my waist a little lower than polite, and my right hand on his shoulder, barely grasping him.
"So when did you really discover your abilities?" He asked casually.
"Fourteen," I answered crisply.
His eyes narrowed. "Right when I discovered my own?"
I simply nodded this time, letting my eyes touch on where my guards were. Koufuu was on one side of the floor, his eyes meeting mine and giving me a small nod. Nijito was on the opposite side and looked annoyed, but regardless he met my eye contact and nodded.
"So, all of those fires that were set, some of them were you?" He asked.
"Yes. I'm surprised you didn't realize some of them couldn't be you. I always felt it when the fires were mine," I mentioned, amused.
He didn't seem to know what to say to that and we danced in silence for a few minutes.
"You realize, Asami-san, that if you returned to Bunmei-sama that you and I together would be an immensely strong pair that no one could take down," He whispered, making sure to maintain eye contact.
"Why, I have realized that actually. The same could be said though, that if you came to Sesshoumaru, we would be a strong pair." I smiled seductively, welcoming him to my side.
He just laughed and shrugged. "I suppose you're right…"
"So how are the others? Anna, Yukika?" I inquired simply, not that interested but still wanting to know a little bit.
"They're good. They'll be down shortly I'm sure. Perhaps you'd be more interested in catching up with the girls than with me." He faked that he was hurt and I was thrown off ever so slightly because of his joking manner.
"Probably not," I replied with a gentle shrug.
"Do you ever miss any of us?" He asked softly, avoiding eye contact now and I was so angry at myself for actually feeling bad, because there was no way this was anything but an act.
"No. I was more than happy with Jiro-sama. Now I am with Sesshoumaru and I am even happier." I smiled softly to myself because I was being truthful. I didn't have to lie about any of this.
"I see," He nodded. "Would you like to go somewhere more private so we can talk?" He suggested, slowly coming to a stop, ready to walk away.
"Perhaps another time," I offered.
"Your guards are more than welcome to follow us," He added on with a charming smile.
"What is it you want to speak about?" I asked, trying to decide if this would be a good idea or not.
"It's not as much speaking as it is finding out a few things about our similar abilities," He corrected with a curious smile.
"Where would we be doing this?" I glanced over to find Nijito watching us, confused as to why we weren't dancing anymore.
"In Bunmei-sama's private study," He answered easily.
"Will Lord Bunmei be there?" I asked, making my way over to Nijito, Koufuu moving around the dance floor to meet us. Junpei kept pace with me.
"Yes." At least he was being honest…
"I will have to speak to Sesshoumaru first. I will find you after I've spoken with my lord," I dismissed him with my tone and he simply bowed slightly and walked away. I moved to Nijito's side and slid my arm through his.
"Did everything go alright?" He asked, seeming slightly worried.
"It went fine. You and your brother's minds are open, yes?" I inquired, glancing up at him.
"Of course, why?" He sounded suspicious and I chuckled softly.
"Can you bring me to him? I would like to speak with Sesshoumaru." I looked around the room but didn't see any sign of Sesshoumaru or Niito.
"Sure, they're in the gardens." He turned, leading us towards open doors past the dance floor.
"Junpei wants to explore our similar abilities in private," I mentioned.
"I'd rather not be beheaded tonight, if you don't mind," Nijito muttered wearily.
I laughed and shook my head. "Not in complete private, simply away from the public," I explained.
"I see." He seemed to think about that for a second and then leaned in as we approached the open doors. "Does that mean I'll be able to have a glimpse of your luscious body again?"
I grinned and simply kept my eyes forward, not bothering to answer. I saw Sesshoumaru in the distance speaking with Ouji. Niito and Akihiko were close to us, far away from Sesshoumaru to give the two lords privacy.
I separated from Nijito when we reached his brother. "What must they be speaking about if even you are not present for the discussion?" I asked, confused.
Niito smiled and shrugged. "I'm not sure yet honestly. Ouji seemed to press for complete privacy. What are you doing away from the ball?"
"I danced with Junpei and he requested that he and I explore our similar gifts in private, away from the public. Guards are more than welcome." I watched Sesshoumaru's body language, but of course it gave nothing away that I could tell.
"I'm not sure that would be the best idea. If you're not stronger than him, we don't want it to be discovered. We want them to suspect how much stronger you may or may not be," He offered as a deterrent and I frowned, not having thought of that.
"I think she just wants the opportunity to hurt him," Nijito suggested.
"Hurt who?" Masaharu walked up to our small gathering, glancing at his own lord curiously.
"Never mind that," Niito brushed it off easily. "We were instructed to stay here. Lord Ouji seemed to insist on privacy with Sesshoumaru-sama."
Masaharu's face drained of everything and he glanced at me ever so slyly before nodding and staring around the gardens.
"Masaharu?" Niito frowned.
"It is not for me to discuss. If your Lord passes along the information then so be it, but unless that occurs I will keep my silence," He said softly.
"If you and I were alone?" Niito questioned.
"It is not a matter of war, my friend. It is something of personal privacy," Masaharu tried to explain.
"I see. I understand, Masaharu," Niito offered his hand and a friendly smile. Masaharu looked relieved, shaking his hand and returning the smile.
"So what is it Senri distracted you with?" I asked to veer the conversation elsewhere.
"Some nonsense about a man growing powerful in the Northern most part of the Southern lands," He looked annoyed. "What did Junpei discuss with you when you danced?"
"He wants to explore our similar abilities in private," I replied, watching as Sesshoumaru and Ouji began walking towards us.
"Complete privacy or with guards and lords?" He asked, though his eyes were also on his lord.
"Guards and lords," I answered simply.
When Sesshoumaru and Ouji reached us I moved to gently and barely embrace Sesshoumaru, mostly just sliding my hands around his sides and looking up at him with a sultry smile. "Hello Sesshoumaru. I hope you haven't been having too much fun without me," I murmured with a false frown.
"Not as much as you have I am sure. How many dances have you had now?" He inquired simply. He was trying to figure out if I had danced with Junpei yet.
"Only two or three now. One was fairly interesting I suppose but I would very much enjoy a dance with you soon," I pressed my lower body slightly against his, grinning up at him as I watched his eyes grow darker with lust.
"Perhaps I will indulge you later," He offered evenly but I could hear the darkness lurking just beneath.
I smiled widely, batting my eye lashes slowly. "Perhaps I will indulge you, later," I whispered.
"Perhaps we should discuss the topic we were just on, Asami?" Niito interrupted from behind us.
"Of course, To-kun," I turned, smiling and was surprised to see Ouji's complete attention on me as I moved my body away from Sesshoumaru's.
Masaharu stepped up, bowing low towards me. "I would be most humbled if you invited me and my lord to sit in on the session." Ouji glanced to him, confused.
"Of course. Explain the situation to your lord and I will talk to Sesshoumaru. When we have everything figured out we'll come and find you," I offered.
"Perfect. Lord Ouji, may we speak somewhere else?" He requested.
"Sure, Masaharu." They walked away and I turned my attention back to Sesshoumaru.
"I danced with Junpei and he wants to explore our similar abilities in private. Guards and lords will be present, it will simply be away from the general public," I explained.
"Niito, what do you think about this?" Sesshoumaru inquired as I slid my arm through his.
"There are potential benefits, but the risk of Junpei being stronger than her and it being confirmed would be a major consequence," Niito said, frowning.
"There could be rules set though, first, of course. It could be agreed upon not to unleash full power and then it won't be a set thing, who is stronger than who," Koufuu offered as an option.
Niito nodded, thinking it over. "True, and that would still give us the opportunity to see some of Junpei's powers."
"Masaharu would like for him and Lord Ouji to sit in on the session as well," I added.
"That might not be such a bad idea. If something were to go wrong or if a connection was trying to be built, he could help." Niito nodded, liking the idea.
"Sesshoumaru? What do you think?" I asked, glancing up at him.
"It would be interesting. Are you planning on fighting? Or simply exploring each other's minds?" He asked, eyeing me carefully.
"I'm not quite sure what he had in mind, but most likely a simply exploration," I responded with a small shrug.
"Will you be turning your clothes to ashes again?" He asked, fingering the fabric around my shoulders.
"Depends. Do you not want me to?" I tilted my head to the side ever so slightly.
"It would not be the best of ideas," He answered softly, yet still evenly.
"Any particular reasons?" I asked, smiling.
"No," He answered coldly and I immediately knew there was some reason for him to not want me nude in front of the audience that would be there.
"Niito, go inform Masaharu that he is welcome to be an audience, and inform Junpei that we will meet him and his lord in his private study," Sesshoumaru instructed.
"Are you sure that is a good idea?" Niito seemed weary to leave Sesshoumaru's side.
"Go," Sesshoumaru instructed firmly.
Niito bowed and then shot Nijito a stern glance before scurrying off in a hurry.
"What would you have of me, milord, for this session?" I started walking towards the gardens, keeping by his side. Nijito, Koufuu, and Akihiko stayed put, simply following us with their eyes.
"Do not draw blood," He stated firstly.
"What if he draws blood?" I asked, frowning. If I was strictly prohibited to drawing blood it would limit me greatly.
"If he draws blood then by all means, make sure he is severely injured, not killed, as a rebut," He replied and I laughed softly.
"What else?" I prompted.
"No nudity." He didn't expand on this.
"If he becomes nude first?" I jested with him, amused.
He simply ignored me and we stopped just inside and around the corner of the garden. We were out of our guards view now and I stepped up close to play with the sash around his waist.
"Is there anything I should be informed of, milord?" I asked sweetly, wondering if he would divulge what he and Ouji-sama were talking about.
"No," He answered simply, his eyes skimming over me slowly while his hand slid trailed down my neck. He stroked a single finger in between my breasts before letting one hand slide beneath the fabric to grasp my breast sharply, nails digging in and inciting a high pitched yelp from me before a violent and pleasurable shudder slid through my body to feet.
He bent over slightly and his lips met my neck while his free hand spread my legs enough to slide in between and play with my warmth abruptly. I gasped, struggling to remain upright at his sudden attack.
"Sesshoumaru…" I breathed his name and let my arms wrap around his shoulders as support. He slid two fingers deep inside while his teeth scraped against my neck hard enough that I was sure it would leave some kind of mark.
All of a sudden he withdrew his fingers, released my breast, and moved away from my neck, and the quickness of it made me almost collapse to my knees but his arm was suddenly there, supporting my weight. There was a smirk of complete confidence on his face, something that seemed so out of sorts for him.
I regained control of myself and it was clear how much it pleased him that I was so affected.
"Can we perhaps see our room, now, Sesshoumaru?" I inquired, heat building up inside, eyes glazing over, and body moistening in reaction.
"No," His answer was simple, no explanation.
We began walking and I was able to stand on my own now, so he released me from his grasp.
"Sesshoumaru-sama. I have made the arrangements with Junpei. We can meet him there now. Masaharu and Lord Ouji will meet us there shortly," Niito informed him simply as we came back into view and earshot of the group of guards.
Sesshoumaru nodded and I shook myself mentally to get back on track and focus. We moved around the perimeter of the ball room, not engaging in conversation. We passed the great hall we had first come through and down a small dark corridor.
Niito and Nijito were ahead leading the way with Koufuu and Akihiko taking the rear.
"Any other last minute rules, milord?" I asked sweetly, sliding both of my arms around his so that he was escorting me.
"Try to limit making any kind of connection with him, like you and Masaharu did," Niito mentioned and Sesshoumaru just nodded in agreement.
We came upon two double doors. Niito and Nijito opened both up to let us walk through. Junpei was by a large fire place, staring intently into the flames. His shirt had somehow vanished and so he was nude waist up.
I looked to Sesshoumaru to make a snide remark in reference to our earlier conversation but he was already looking at me and just shook his head.
Bunmei was sitting behind a desk with Senri standing calm behind him, looking at nothing and no one in particular. Benito was off to the side of the desk, looking bitter. I wondered idly about what but deferred it for later investigation. There was a large space in between the fire place and desk, as if this was the very place they often held fights or simple 'explorations'. Along all of the walls were bookshelves and almost every single spot was filled with something, whether it be books or artifacts or little nothings.
His old study had been much smaller and barely filled. It made me nostalgic to think and compare how things used to be. I brushed those thoughts away and continued my observations. There were comfortable looking chairs scattered in front of the book shelves, placed precisely to be able to observe whatever went on in this large space. We were still missing Masaharu's and Ouji's audience.
"Welcome Lord Sesshoumaru, Asami-san," Bunmei's voice was firm but he didn't stand to welcome us, showing disrespect since Lord Sesshoumaru was at least an equal, if not more.
"Bunmei," Sesshoumaru addressed him easily, not even looking his way. He moved to a chair located to the side of the large space and directly in the middle, so that he would have a good vantage point of the whole ordeal. I lingered in the middle of the space, Niito standing by me. Nijito, Koufuu, and Akihiko all moved to take up spots around the room.
"I believe we are waiting for two more guests? It was curious to hear that Lord Ouji and his little playboy wanted to sit in," Bunmei attempted to joke and I wanted to insult him in Masaharu's defense, but I knew I couldn't.
I wasn't quite sure how to respond without revealing too much or too little but Niito came to the rescue for that. "We all know Junpei-san is more of a playboy than Masaharu will ever be," He laughed softly, keeping it joking, light. "And you should be informed I suppose, so you are not left wondering, but Masaharu and Asami-san have already explored each other's powers and established a connection. It is no wonder why he would want to sit in on another exploration of like elements." Niito turned his back to Bunmei before he could respond and smiled to me.
"And what is your connection to this girl?" Bunmei asked condescendingly.
Junpei actually turned and strolled back to his lord, placing a hand on his shoulder. Even he realized how rude he was being. In any other circumstance Junpei probably wouldn't have said or made a hint to anything but he probably was desperate to explore our powers.
"Do you have any rules, Asami-san that you would like to bring to our attention?" Junpei asked, to move this session along.
At that point the doors opened and Masaharu held them open while Ouji walked through.
"So sorry we are a bit late," Ouji said warmly, taking in the whole room quickly and then sliding to the same side of the room as Sesshoumaru, sitting near him, but not too close as to look strange. Masaharu moved to the middle of the room with Niito and I.
"Where are we right now?" Masaharu questioned with a tilt of his head.
"We were just about to go over some rules," I informed him and then motioned for him to sit with his lord.
"If there is anything you need, you can call for me with your power," He whispered just by my ear and only Niito heard because of his close proximity.
"Now, secrets are not polite things, especially when so in public of others," Junpei joked, moving to walk towards our little group.
"Perhaps if you had the connection we do, you would be privileged to the knowledge of our secrets, but you do not," Masaharu commented, leaving to stand near Ouji.
"Let's get started, shall we, Asami-san?" Junpei asked, clearly annoyed.
"Yes, of course." I smiled, excited to be able to possibly cause him harm.
"Rules first," Niito said, "Neither of you can let go of all your power. Do not go all out. No weapons if it turns a little combative. No blood. Agreed?"
"Sure." Junpei wasn't even focusing anymore on Nitto, his eyes were all for me.
"I agree, Niito." I gave him a reassuring smile and he went to stand by Sesshoumaru.
"Are you ready little one?" Junpei taunted in a small whisper.
"I wouldn't get so cocky. It was always one of your downfalls," I replied easily.
We moved so we were barely a foot apart, staring into each other's eyes. Junpei smirked and I let myself focus and forget everything else in the room but him. And then, it happened. An explosion of heat surrounded us both and our eyes were wide as this little exploration began.
Disclaimer: Inuyasha belongs to Rumiko Takahashi and all of the OCs are my own creation.
I hope you liked it and it wasn't too long… I kept getting upset with myself because I felt like I drew it out so much, but then again, I won't be able to update for a while, so maybe it was good that this was a super long chapter? I don't know… Feedback is welcomed! It makes me happy.
Have a great Spring Break!
xoxo Tiff