CHAPTER 11
With the 'men folk' gone, Rin was finally left alone with her thoughts and her maidservants. Both women approached her cautiously, awaiting further instruction.
Hitome spoke first. "Milady, that Hontu was rather attractive was he not?" Reu was about to cut a cautious look to her friend when Rin giggled. "Indeed he was Hitome! Rin licked at her lips. "I would not throw that Toru out of bed on a cold night either!"
Both women laughed heartily. Reu just looked on trying to appear uninterested.
Reu fidgeted for a moment before speaking. "Was it my imagination, or did it appear that Hontu seemed rather attracted to you Milady?" Rin's laughter faded into a small smile that left Reu fearing for her life. The woman dropped to her knees in front of the girl. "I meant no harm Milady!" She said as she began to whimper. Rin smiled and placed her hand on the woman's shoulder. "No offense was taken Reu. Please rise."
Rin's smile did not leave her face as Reu rose. "You are right Reu. One would think that." Rin sighed. "It's a shame really. He may have stood a chance had I met him first." The other women nodded approvingly.
Sesshomaru did not bother to hide his shock.
"My half brother was named after you?" The Oracle tipped her head in thought. "Not really. It is more like he was named after your father's memory of me."
Sesshomaru huffed not sure if he should be disgusted or amused.
The Oracle returned to the rock she was sitting on outside of the main entrance. Sesshomaru followed wordlessly as he assumed his original place.
"Is there more to this story?" he asked with a hint of dread.
"The story of your half brother's name is at its conclusion."
"Good." Sesshomaru again huffed with relief.
The Oracle rose from her seat and began to walk back to the palace. "I've left you with quite a bit to take in this evening. I will speak of your beloved Rin upon your mother's arrival tomorrow."
"WHAT?" Sesshomaru shouted. With a speed he did not believe he possessed, Sesshomaru spun around in an effort to corner The Oracle for further questions. Instead, he faced an empty entranceway. Listening closely, he heard her voice on the wind.
"Be at ease young lord, all will be made clear tomorrow."
Sesshomaru, now totally outdone, sighed heavily as he returned to his former perch. "Tomorrow then."
The Lady of The West sat quietly enjoying what to her had to be the absolute best sake she had ever had in her entire life. A jug with a rather generous portion of the libation was left sitting by her table. Her 'manservant' seemed busy preparing her bedchamber for the evening. She showed him no concern.
Under different circumstances, The Lady might have enjoyed the beautiful sunset that was slowly being presented to her.
As it was, she was a mixture of rage and dread. Sesshomaru had gotten to The Oracle first! Who knows what may have been discussed! There was simply no way to formulate a plan.
"This is not the first time I've had to think on my feet, but it will be by far the most difficult." She thought to herself.
Out of the corner of her eye, she had noticed her servant arranging items to be within reach. It seemed as if he were preparing to leave.
"And exactly where do you think you're going?" She said with a low growl. The strikingly handsome attendant ceased his activities, turned to face the taiyouki, and smiled.
"Your bed has been tuned down, there is a sleeping gown laid out for you." His hand pointed to a cluster of trees a short distance away. There, you will find both a hot spring and a small pond of cool water for your purposes and, should you desire it, a meal will be provided when you rise."
The attendant then went to stand directly in front of The Lady.
He was truly a strikingly handsome creature. Barely clad in a sleeping robe, he was tall, muscular and clearly 'gifted'. His curly red hair went just past his shoulders. In spite of her best efforts not to, The Lady of The West purred approvingly. A wry smile snaked itself across his face.
"Would milady be desiring some company this evening, or should I be taking my leave?"
"Your mistress seems to have seen to everything." The Lady said with a purr. "What is your name oh handsome one?"
"The being before her suddenly got a far away look in his eyes before answering. "My mistress once used to call me 'her favorite'. Now, I am just Botan.
"Well now, 'Just Botan', exactly what purpose do you serve?"
The Lady licked her lips slowly as she awaited a response.
"Your every comfort will be seen to this evening." This beautiful male came over to where The Lady was presently sitting and refilled her cup with more sake.
"Should you require it, I have been instructed to stay with you this night." Carefully Botan placed a clawed finger into The Lady's drink. He then gathered up a drop of the liquid within and reached to swirl the warm fluid around The Lady's mouth.
The Lady licked her lips slowly as she eyed this beautiful stranger. "You were once your mistresses favorite? You seem very agreeable and quite pleasant. So tell me Botan, how did you fall from grace?"
Botan closed his eyes as if contemplating his answer.
"She found one of your kind." He finally said, smiling a sad smile. "My mistress has refused me ever since." The Lady pretended to feign interest as Botan continued.
"I'll admit that at first I was upset. But then my curiosity got the better of me and I've wondered about you all ever since. My mistress graciously granted my request to serve you this evening."
Something within The Lady sparked. This delicious oaf may have information! Let me see what a bit of promised pleasure will get me! "How badly do you wish to satisfy your curiosity?" The Lady purred. Botan gently rolled his fingers around The Lady's cheek and collar bone before speaking.
"My mistress told me that she found among your people a kind and giving heart."
Botan then bent further to gently kiss the lady along her neck and collarbone. He lightly tugged at the neckline of her kimono as he swirled his tongue near her breasts.
"I am in search of another kind and giving heart." he said as he further nuzzled her neck breathing softly into her cleavage. The Lady purred her approval as she tilted her head to allow better access.
Suddenly, Botan stopped his ministrations as if something physically caused him to halt. He lifted his head to regard the taiyouki, then took a step back and smiled sadly. The Lady looked up to him with obvious curiosity.
"Why did you stop?"
Botan gave a small sigh.
"I sense neither kindness nor the ability to give within you." Botan then gave another sigh as he stepped further back. His face, clearly displaying sadness. The Lady was speechless.
Botan then smiled a sad smile before preparing to take his leave. "A pity really. You are quite beautiful… at least in appearance."
He quirked an eye as he took in the female taiyoukai's obvious shock combined with anger and frustration.
Any amorous intent that she may have had was now successfully thwarted. The Lady had just been clearly reminded that however beautiful this creature was before her, he was still a servant of The Oracle. Having been obviously rejected, The Lady then threw her cup of sake in disgust at the being before her.
Botan caught the projectile with ease.
"Leave me then you vile creature!" She hissed as she bared her fangs.
Botan laughed softly as he bowed to take his leave.
"I am not the 'vile creature' here milady. Botan then made a wide sweeping gesture with his arms. "Fare thee well." he was gone in a swirl of smoke.
The insult was noticed a moment too late. The Lady growled in disgust before taking the modest sized jug of the remaining sake to her lips.
"To hell with you then!"
According to Rin's specific instruction, both elite guard were separately gathered. Against Toru's insistence, Rin wished for the men to be 'at ease'. They were not to stand in formal rank, but were told that while they must still maintain respect, they were able to relax.
Rin decided to speak to Sesshomaru's guard first.
They had been gathered in one of the small courtyards. Rin had provided food and entertainment and the men seemed to be somewhat relaxed. But these were warriors accustomed to battle and being on their guard. Not once did they forget where they were or why they were there.
When Rin had finally come within the courtyard, it took only the slightest of moments for all to be aware of her presence.
She had freshened up and did indeed wear her lord's colors.
Every demon present quickly stopped what ever he was doing and bowed deeply. A 'captain' then came forward and got on one knee in front of the girl.
"What are your orders Milady?" came the even inquiry.
Rin smiled but spoke evenly. "Stand please."
Wordlessly each demon present ceased all activity and stood tall. Rin took in a deep breath as she circled the group examining each warrior there.
"In a day's time, I will go to the humans and seek a peace treaty that I hope will keep all parties content until our lord's return." Rin walked slowly and spoke clearly, she wanted no room for misunderstanding.
"I have come to ask you a few simple questions: Will you come with me? Will you protect me if need be? Will you fight for me if necessary?" Rin then stood in front of the gathered crowd to await an answer.
The same 'captain' that had spoken earlier came forward once again. "Milady, it is our sworn duty to protect you."
Rin smiled. "I know that much. But I have never asked you."
The captain stood tall and lifted his voice for all to hear.
"We have both seen and heard of all that you do for our lord and the lands of the west. Please forgive my boldness Milady, but you ask a foolish question. Because, it is we who should be asking…nay begging for the honor of being your accompaniment."
An unknown voice chimed in from a short distance away. "Aye Milady!" Then another, "Aye!" Then another, "So say we all!"
Despite her best efforts not to, Rin blushed openly. She turned first to the captain, then to the others smiling.
"I thank you. Day after tomorrow, we go for the glory of Lord Sesshomaru and the house of the west!" All that were present, cheered. Rin smiled and gave a small nod to all before leaving the group.
Unknown to Rin, both Toru and Jaken were listening in not far away. Both demons grinned in spite of themselves.
Toru 'kehed' and gave a nod of approval.
"There is no doubt that she could inspire an army to war my friend!" Jaken chuckled. "I agree." smirked Toru. "Now, what say we see what sort of 'test' she has for the remaining guard. I never once doubted the loyalties of this group, but somehow I suspect that the other bunch will prove to be highly entertaining!" Jaken gave a grin in agreement, and they were off to Rin's second meeting.
Rin now went to address the second guard, her guard.
Just as with the first group, food and entertainment had been provided and there were no ranking officers around.
Because these were an untested lot, Rin handled herself differently. She came into the courtyard strolling with unquestioned authority. There would be no smiling for this group.. at least not yet.
It took a bit longer for these warriors to notice her arrival. But she waited and patiently judged reactions from all. Six of the eight demons present noticed her and faster than the others and snapped to attention. Two other demons regarded her and rose with visible annoyance at their pleasure being interrupted.
Rin silently approached all with her arms crossed folded into her kimono. One of the two demons that showed the least interest casually walked up to the girl.
"What do you want Lady Rin." This demon was being openly sarcastic. She gave him a stern look before pulling out a small red ball from beneath her kimono folds.
"I wish for you all to keep this ball in constant motion between you. Do not let it touch the ground and do not simply pass it." Rin then casually tossed the ball to the demon who caught it easily. For the briefest of moments, this demon made as if he was going to crush the ball before he blindly tossed it over his shoulder not bothering to see if anyone had caught it.
Not once did his gaze leave Rin.
Six out of eight demon warriors were reduced to youkai cubs playing 'catch'. In no time, they seemed almost oblivious to all around them as they simply enjoyed the game. The other demon that showed an obvious lack of interest, joined his fellow to stand in front of Rin.
"Is there a point to this?" the demon said with obvious irritation.
Rin smiled slightly. "You have already made your point. And for that, I thank you." Rin then smiled a true smile as she looked to the other demons 'at play'. "They can keep the ball." She then turned to leave.
From the corner of her eye, she could see the realization of the 'test' come across the faces of the two that chose not to participate. One tried to redeem himself.
"Milady, what is going on here?"
Rin turned a deadly eye to both demons. "I just gave you a test in obedience. You both failed." Rin then turned again to take her leave. The other demon dared to raise his voice. "What is to happen to us then?" he demanded with a hint of fear.
All ball tossing suddenly stopped as the attentions of all present turned to the three beings in question. Rin then turned and faced all before speaking loud and clear.
You have all stayed here enjoying our lord's comforts. Until now, I have not asked anything of you. In a day's time, I must go to present a peace treaty to humans of the surrounding area. I simply needed to know where your loyalties lay." Rin then looked to the six demons that did as they were told.
"You six are now officially my elite guard. When Lord Sesshomaru returns, I will see to it that he knows of your loyalty." Rin then turned to the other two beside her. Her expression of disappointment was obvious.
"You two may return home. It is clear to me that you are both not happy here and have no interest in serving me.
"We will gladly serve Lord Sesshomaru." The first demon said with a hint of desperation.
"And, there in lie your problem." Rin stated. "You are not a member of his guard. You are here to serve me. I'm now releasing you of your obvious burden."
As if on cue, Toru walked in on the group. He gave a stern look to all present as they snapped to attention. He then bowed deeply to Rin.
"Am I to understand that these two will no longer be needed Milady?" he said as he stared with a hint of malice directed to the ones in question. "That is correct Master Toru." Rin said with finality.
Toru glared at the two warriors before him. "Wait inside. Your brothers may yet join you depending on the next chain of events" he commanded. The two demons sulked off uncertain of their fate. Rin allowed herself to relax slightly as she faced the remaining demons still standing at attention.
"Only you six did as I asked. Only you six passed my simple test. But that is not enough. In a days time, I go to present a peace treaty to the local human tribes. Things may go well, or they may not. Rather than guess I will ask you outright - Will you serve me. Will you guard my life as the most precious thing that you own? Will you follow my commands without question?"
Four demons fell on one knee almost simultaneously. "I am yours to command Lady Rin!" They chorused. Rin smiled at the display then turned her gaze to the remaining two demons present. These two demons did not move fast enough and realized that any move they made now would be taken for a lie.
One demon gulped audibly as he cleared his throat to speak.
"I have served the House Of The West for as long as I can remember. And, while I have never served a human, you are not like any human that I have ever met." He then got down on his knees.
"Do not send me back to The Lady of The West. My life is yours to do with as you please. Please allow me to stay and I will serve faithfully."
Rin turned her gaze to the second guard. "And what have you to say for yourself?" the demon hung his head. "I do not carry my brother's eloquence Milady. But I do know that I have no desire to return to The Lady of The West either. If I am allowed to stay, I will do all that I can to make sure that you do not regret your decision."
Rin gave a small smile and stepped back to regard the demons before her. "Stand then, and listen to me well." she said with authority.
"I now stand before MY elite guard. I will trust you all with my life and well being. From now on, the only word greater than mine is that of our lord Sesshomaru. Serve me well and you will live well. But should your efforts ever be found lacking…"
Rin then let her voice drop low and deadly before she turned in Toru's direction continuing.
" You will be sent back to your Lady in pieces."
"Yes Milady!" they all chorused.
Rin then gave a half smile to Toru before giving him a small nod. Nothing further needed to be said. Sesshoamru had taught her the arts of war very well. "Never give an enemy a second opportunity." Toru would see to this task. The two demons that had been removed would not live to see the next sun rise.
About fifty miles further to the west, four human generals were gathering with the purpose of discussing and looking over the treaty to be offered.
Master Xanchi was responsible for the human settlements in the lands to the north of Sesshomaru's palace, Master Shin, the south. Master Sota cared for the eastern regions, and Master Zobu attended to lands further west.
These were men who had seen many battles with humansbut they truthfully had seen none with demons. The thought of avoiding what may prove itself to be a one sided blood bath, was very desirable. Indeed.
The mere fact that the house of the west was even willing to spearhead negotiations was in itself seen as a gift from the gods. Lord Sesshomaru's bloodlust and penchant for war was the stuff of legend. None in the group held a wish to anger the taiyoukai.
While the humans did indeed surround Sesshomaru's palace, there were truly not enough trained warriors among them capable of being anything more than an irritation. In truth, if it were his will, Sesshomaru could rid himself of his "human problem" with ease. It was just beneath him to do so.
At Zobu's insistence, the four generals were to ride out on horseback and meet in the western regions of the land before finding a suitable 'neutral' area for negotiations All were all looking forward to an amiable end.
The three generals rode together each with a small regiment of soldiers (just in case any 'problem' should arise).
Master Zobu himself rode out to greet the three once his well placed scouts had spotted them. Zobu was accompanied by two of his men both holding his banner as they rode up. A slightly heavy set man in partial armor stopped his horse just short of the approaching group.
"Welcome brothers!" he said heartily. All three generals stopped short to regard the man.
"Good day to you my lord." said Xanchi with authority. "And, while I claim no blood kinsmen ship with you, let us all be bound by the kinsmen ship of our common humanity." All nodded in agreement, then headed for the campsite.
As they approached Zobu's encampment, the eyes of the three generals went wide. It was absolutely beautiful.
It was held in a small cove near a waterfall. Plentiful fruit trees and lush grass abounded. Zobu went so far as to have both musicians and women for the men in his encampment.
He meant for all to be in good humor. This by no means looked remotely like the makings of a place to plan a peaceful negotiation process.
All present stood dumbfounded and in shock. Even the regiments present were not sure exactly how they were to conduct themselves. This looked more like the scene of a great victory.
Zobu took in their shock and chuckled a bit. "Not what you expected eh?"
Xanchi was appalled. "In a matter of days we may well be at war with demons and you bring women and music?" he all but shouted.
Zobu laughed as he dismounted. "And that is exactly why I've chosen this place." The other generals dismounted and faced Zobu waiting on an explanation. Zobu's tone got suddenly very serious.
"If all goes well, this is but a prelude of things to come. But, if the gods turn against us, and we must fight this enemy, Would you not want your last days on this mortal coil to have been filled with just a bit of a reminder of why we don our armor to begin with?"
Lord Shin gave a chuckle in spite of his best efforts not to. "While I have no intention of dying any time soon, I see the point to your reasoning." Shin then gave a broad smile as he looked to the others. "Tomorrow we must prepare and plan possible strategies. Let us enjoy this day, renew our spirits, and relax." Smiles slowly made their way across the faces of all present.
Zobu laughed in good humor. "It is decided then! Come to my tent and refresh yourselves. My servants will see to the needs of your men. Tomorrow we plan. But for today, let us feast and enjoy!"
The others grunted in agreement as they followed Zobu to his tents.