Good evening everyone . . . I know what your thinking, "It's Saturday, not Sunday . . . what's goin' on?" So, here's the deal, you all were absolutely lovely with the reviews (not that you normally aren't) but this last chapter I got some of the kindest ones yet (and my first ever written totally in Spanish!), so I've decided to give you all two chapters this weekend as a big thank you for all the support you've given me with this story. This past week at work was so stressful and this coming Monday is going to be just as bad, coming home and getting your reviews helps wind down my mind. This is the part of my life I thoroughly enjoy and in a shit filled day, this helps put a smile on my face. I had this chapter pretty well edited and I'm fairly certain I can get the next one polished up and ready for posting by tomorrow night. Assuming no catastrophe's between now and then, I'll post chapter 21 tomorrow at the normal time. For those of you lovely people in Europe whom asked if I can post earlier on Sunday due to the time difference, I'm sorry, but most Sunday's I can't due to my schedule. When I can, I certainly will.

Disclaimers are as before. Just to let everyone know, if we haven't earned our "M" rating before, we will in the coming chapters. Please, if you are offended by this kind of material, please skip those parts or move on to another story. I tried to warn everyone at the beginning that this would happen in the distant future, well, that future isn't so distant anymore :-)

This is another shorter chapter (sorry), but the next one is twice as long (or, at least I think it is). I've been way too verbose, so now I'll shut up and let you read Chapter 20 . . .

Feeling genuine comfort for the first time in his life, Inuyasha woke slowly. Below a furry ear, he could hear the steady beat of Sesshomaru's slow, yet constant heart and in that moment, all the peace he'd so recently found fled. Not yet having opened his eyes, the Hanyou squeezed them all the tighter while his clawed hands did the same. In all his plans, not once had Inuyasha thought he'd wind up breaking down so utterly and completely. He'd done the unthinkable and actually cried in front of Sesshomaru. He'd shown a weakness so wholly unforgivable that Inuyasha truly believed it no longer mattered what he wanted, for there was absolutely no way in hell his powerful brother would ever want to mate him now. Gods above, he'd be lucky if Sesshomaru still wanted to pursue some type of brotherly relationship.

Sesshomaru had been enjoying the peace of the morning, not having felt this content and whole since he'd had Rin by his side when she'd been not more than a child. With his intended mate cradled and safe within his arms, his Youkai lounged in smug satisfaction. In that moment, all things were possible. He would heal his little brother's troubled heart. He would never allow pain and suffering to claim the Hanyou's soul again. Inuyasha was physically well and he was doing what an alpha should – providing food, shelter, and protection. Finally, the DaiYoukai felt as if he were doing something right and Sesshomaru basked in this contentment until the beautiful creature in his arms woke, and with that waking, Inuyasha's heart rate skyrocketed as his muscles tensed. Seeking to soothe him further, Sesshomaru's graceful fingers rubbed the base of a soft, puppydog ear, only to have it immediately fold back and bury itself deep among the Hanyou's snowy-white locks of hair.

Concerned, Sesshomaru questioned, "Inuyasha?"

As soon as he'd felt that hand on his head, Inuyasha had immediately recoiled. The knowledge that Sesshomaru found him so utterly pathetic that he required some kind of comfort . . . dear god's, the shame was unbearable. Someone like the Lord of the West didn't comfort, not even that little human girl who used to follow Sesshomaru around like a real lost puppy ever required something like this. With new determination, Inuyasha planted his hands on the rock that was Sesshomaru's chest and pushed, scrambling off his brother's lap and dumping himself onto the bed. All the while, he couldn't even begin to look the DaiYoukai in the eye and instead, kept his gaze cast down, his bangs covering his puffy red eyes.

Even without looking, Inuyasha sensed his brother's movement towards him and immediately held out a hand while muttering a stuttered, "S-stop. D-don't touch m-me."

Freezing in place, Sesshomaru felt at an utter and total loss. He'd thought last night had been the release the Hanyou had needed, that this morning they could move forwards. But, looking at his little brother right now, that obviously was not the case. "Inuyasha, I promised I would do as you told me throughout the night, but the sun has risen and I am no longer bound by that oath."

Balling his fists around the sheets below his hands, Inuyasha did what he knew best and let anger cover his shame. Pulling his lips back into a snarl, he raised his head, amber eyes narrowed in accusation. "So now you just get to do what you want? Is that it? To hell with what I say. That's just fuckin' like you! You arrogant, jackass. You spoiled, InuDaiYoukai prick – "

"Enough!" Sesshomaru growled before launching himself forwards, bending Inuyasha's body back to slam the Hanyou's back on the bed while easily pinning his arms above his head. "I do not know what has possessed you to act this way, but you will cease immediately."

"Or you'll what?" Inuyasha sneered. "What exactly are you gonna do? You gonna skewer my gut so that I really have somethin' to cry about? Or maybe you wanna poison my worthless Hanyou ass again just to prove how fuckin' weak and pathetic I really am. Why I ain't worth . . . " turning his head to the side, Inuyasha closed his eyes, squeezing them tight against the pain clenching his heart. It would be so much better to end it here – in physical violence than to hear the acidically painful words his brother would no doubt use to illustrate exactly why he'd been mistaken in wanting him for a mate. Better to piss Sesshomaru off enough so that he might just decide to end his life right here and now. Better to die quickly than linger with the gaping hole he was sure Sesshomaru's words would rip through his chest.

Hearing the pain in Inuyasha's voice, Sesshomaru's body relaxed. Placing both the Hanyou's wrists within the palm of one of his hands, the DaiYoukai used the other to gently tug his brother's face around, forcing Inuyasha to look at him. "Inuyasha, open your eyes."

Slowly, deeply lashed eyelids opened to reveal hardened amber orbs. "There, now I'm lookin' at ya so do what you gotta do and let me the fuck up."

Sighing, Sesshomaru's thumb began tracing the edge of Inuyasha's jaw. "Tell me what has upset you. You were so at peace lying in my arms all night."

Feeling the rush of shame dig ever deeper into his soul, Inuyasha grit his teeth. "I don't gotta tell you shit! You're just gonna throw me away now anyways, so just say what you want and get out."

"Why on earth would this Sesshomaru throw you away?"

Not understanding that his brother was well and truly confused, Inuyasha simply thought the DaiYoukai was taunting him. "Why wouldn't you? You saw . . . I'm sure last night just proved to you what a fucked up, weak-ass half-breed I am. Don't tell me you're not gloatin' seein' your worthless brother cry like a newly weaned pup."

And there, it suddenly all made sense. "Inuyasha, I had not realized what a truly insecure creature you are."

Feeling as if he'd been slapped, Inuyasha bared his fangs. "Get the fuck off me or else – "

"Or else what? Struggle all you wish, little brother, I shall not let go. Not now, not ever." Leaning just that little bit forwards, Sesshomaru allowed his mouth to hover over the angry red lips of his brother, knowing when he spoke, the Hanyou would be able to both taste and feel his hot breath. "Do you still not understand this? Do you still not realize there is no escape from me? You will be my mate, no one else shall ever know your touch nor your tears. All of it, all of you, is mine and I shall never let you go."

Stilling, Inuyasha's amber orbs were blown wide as he savored the feel of Sesshomaru's hot breath wafting over his lips. Parting his mouth slightly, he was able to not only feel it, but taste the DaiYoukai's power as his perked ears took in his brother's words, sending a shiver down his body. On another day, in another time, Inuyasha would have balked at hearing such words. Just as Sesshomaru had once thought, he was certain that he would never belong to anyone. And, it wasn't just the thought that no one would ever desire a Hanyou, but the thought of being possessed by another. Inuyasha was a free creature – bounding through the trees, no home to call his own. Freedom ran through his blood and he never imagined willingly giving it up. But, as Sesshomaru's words ran like water through his mind, Inuyasha never questioned the notion that his brother had just tied him to his side for life. Instead, all he could think was that the DaiYoukai still wanted him, as crazy and unexpected as it sounded, Sesshomaru still wanted him as his mate.

Feeling overwhelmed by the powerful alpha Youkai pouring from Sesshomaru in waves of exquisite torture, Inuyasha began panting while a whispered, "Why? Why would you still want me?" echoed from his plump lips.

"Foolish Hanyou, you have no idea how utterly enticing you are. How the scent of your presence both calms and fires my soul. It is my fault that you place so little value on your existence, and as such, given time, this Sesshomaru will prove how invaluable you are. For over five hundred years, I lived without even the presence of your Youkai as comfort, now that Bakusen'O has returned you to me, there is not a force in Heaven, Hell or Earth that could take you from my side again."

With warmth spreading through his body, Inuyasha's breathing became increasingly stilted and choppy. "You," he started, licking his dry lips, "you really mean that? Even after how I acted last night? I thought you'd find me weak, and – "

"There is not another being upon this earth who is stronger than you, little brother."

Hearing the conviction and honesty in Sesshomaru's voice, Inuyasha simply laid there, stunned. "I've said it before and I'll say it again, I think you've lost your gods damned mind."

Lips quirking up in a brief smile, Sesshomaru leaned down that extra little bit, pressing his lips to his little brother's before pulling away and running his tongue along their surface. "You taste as good as you smell, Inuyasha. Soon, I will want to sample more of you." Seeing the deep crimson blush coloring Inuyasha's face, Sesshomaru took a chance and moved the hand that had been cupping the Hanyou's cheek down until it lightly caressed the growing bulge in his brother's pants.

"Sessh – "

"Do not worry. This Sesshomaru is well aware you are not ready for more. But, it is good to know that it is possible for you to respond to me as a mate should and not simply a brother."

"Oh gods, that's embarrassing," Inuyasha groaned.

"Perhaps for you, but it is most rewarding to me."

"Fuck, as if you needed anymore of an ego boost, anymore of that shit and your head's just gonna swell until you can't make it through the door."

Smirking, Sesshomaru took his hand away and leaned back, allowing Inuyasha a little more breathing room. Rubbing his own swelling bulge, the DaiYoukai answered, "Although impressive when it is aroused, I do not believe my cock could ever become so large as to not be able to fit through a modern doorway."

"W-what?" Inuyasha stuttered. "You know that's not what I meant! You horny, arrogant bastard."

Falling forwards once more, Sesshomaru pressed Inuyasha's body back against the bed while his tongue leisurely traced along the Hanyou's cheek. "Sometimes, little brother, there are reason's for arrogance."

stifling a groan of both pleasure and irritation, Inuyasha's stomach was not so easily controlled and soon rumbled loudly causing an all new level of embarrassment.

Stopping all motion, Sesshomaru sat back up, studying the flushed Hanyou before him. "Forgive me, I should have seen to this need first."

Sitting up and scooting back, Inuyasha scratched the back of his head. "Yeah, well, I haven't really eaten anything since yesterday mornin'. Used to I could go a lot longer without food, but I think my belly's gotten kinda spoiled always havin' it available recently."

Feeling a wave of protection hit him, Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed slightly. "You should have informed me yesterday when you arrived home that you had not eaten. You are still healing and gaining physical strength, Inuyasha."

"-Keh, I can go a lot longer without food. Besides, I had a few other things on my mind last night."

Getting up from the bed, Sesshomaru casually picked up his shirt from the previous evening, easily pushing his arms through the sleeves while leaving it to hang open in the front. "You will dress and go to the kitchen immediately."

"Excuse me?" Despite the fact that he really was starving, Inuyasha did not like that authoritative voice telling him what to do. "I can damn well decide on my own when I need to eat."

"Apparently, little brother, that is not the case as evidenced by the sounds your needy stomach was just making." Ignoring Inuyasha's increasing agitation, Sesshomaru walked towards the doorway, aloof and cold, as if the previous night nor what had just occurred that morning had really taken place. "I neglected my duties yesterday. Today I must repair whatever damage that wolf has done in my stead."

Blinking at the sudden change in atmosphere, Inuyasha hated the pang of disappointment he felt knowing Sesshomaru was going to be gone all day. "So, ah, how long ya gonna be?"

"Unfortunately, it may take some time, but I will make sure I am home tonight. I expect you to be ready to leave for dinner by seven."

"Leave? Hey, wait a minute – "

"If I am not mistaken, you have agreed to the idea of becoming this Sesshomaru's mate."

Flushing, Inuyasha stood from the bed, his hands fisting at his sides while he sputtered, "I-I d-don't' remember s-sayin' exactly – "

Turning from the door, Sesshomaru leveled cold gold eyes on the hesitant form before him. "Then let us make it clear, do you consent to being courted by this Sesshomaru?"

"C-courted?"

"Yes, it is proper Youkai tradition for an alpha to prove themselves to the one they wish to mate. I believe we have already established that you are the one I have chosen."

"Oh, I get it, but really, ya don't have to do anything fancy. It's just me, after all."

"Inuyasha, I will be home by seven to take you to dinner. I expect you to be dressed and ready to be properly courted."

"-Keh, I guess it's your dime."

"Indeed, that it is and I can think of no better way to spend it."

"So, uh, what do you want me to wear?"

Raising an eyebrow, Sesshomaru's mouth quirked up into a smirk. "I was not aware you needed assistance in choosing your clothing. Now that I am, I shall make sure to lay out the appropriate wardrobe each and every day."

"Ass, you know that's not what I meant. I just didn't know if we were goin' somewhere as stuck up as you, or if I could wear regular clothes."

"Ah, I see. It would please me to take you somewhere with a bit more class."

"Stuck up it is then."

Nodding once, Sesshomaru took one more scent of the air before turning to leave. "I shall see you tonight, Inuyasha." Not waiting for a response, the DaiYoukai left, quickly making a stop in his own room to freshen up before heading down to the garage. Although he'd like nothing better than to stay with his Hanyou, Sesshomaru was interested to see what Kouga had been working on over the last twenty-four hours. Hopefully the wolf had found proof enough to bring to the council regarding Tullic's dealings.

::::::::::

Despite the rumble of his stomach, Inuyasha continued sitting in his room for well over an hour after Sesshomaru left. Sitting on the edge of his bed, all he could do was replay the previous evening's events as well as those of that morning. And, as his memories warmed him, he absently ran a clawed hand up and down the cheek his brother had both nuzzled and licked prior to his leaving. Finally realizing what he was doing, Inuyasha scoffed, "Damn, that fucker's already stuck in my god's damned head." Feeling silly and yet giddy with anticipation, Inuyasha finally rose from his seat, intent upon sating at least one appetite.

Once again, the kitchens were unusually quiet. Where this damn cook was that everyone kept talking about, Inuyasha hadn't a clue. In all the time he'd been there, he'd eaten some pretty fantastic foods and always they were prepared and waiting either upon the counter, stove, or fridge. This time, the Hanyou had smelled the sizzling bacon from his own room, but as usual, by the time he reached the kitchen, only the steaming pile of meat was to be found. Whispering a short, "Creepy fucker," the Hanyou got to work on the bacon, devouring it within a matter of minutes. Stomach now sated, Inuyasha decided he'd go insane unless he kept his mind occupied and so once done with breakfast, he used his nose to search out Lady Kadira to see if she had time to continue his lessons.

After a modicum of groveling along with an unhealthy dose of backhanded apologies, Inuyasha somehow managed to get Kadira to forgive him for his previous few day's behavior and soon enough they found themselves on the rooftop gardens, soaking in the sun while he tried to concentrate on what the miko was telling him. But as the day wore on, Inuyasha's anxiety increased until Kadira finally stated, "Perhaps it would be best to stop here today."

Noting the sun's position in the sky, Inuyasha knew it would still be hours before Sesshomaru got home. Hours of doing nothing but worrying. "No, I'll concentrate more."

Seeing the earnestness in the Hanyou's face, Kadira sighed and began again, only to stop within a matter of minutes when Inuyasha was once again staring off into space. Deciding to take another approach to the problem, Kadira asked, "Inuyasha, is there something particular on your mind today?"

Frowning, the Hanyou looked down as his claws traced patterns in the grass. "It ain't nothin' for you to worry about."

"I did not say I was worried, but you clearly are. If I had to guess, I'd say it has something to do with Lord Sesshomaru. Although I may be old and am clearly not Youkai, it does not mean that I am unable to listen and give advice when needed."

Scratching the side of his face, Inuyasha felt his cheeks flush, his eyes drifting to the side as he answered, "-Keh, when doesn't it have to do with the bastard." Blowing out a deep breath, the Hanyou finally decided that maybe . . . just maybe, Kadira might have a point. "I'd imagine you already figured out what I was so pissed about these past few days."

"Aye, I am aware."

"Well, it's not like I'm gonna go into details, but this mornin' I kinda agreed that I'd consider bein' Sesshomaru's mate."

Smiling, Kadira felt the knot in her chest loosen, she'd been terribly afraid the Hanyou would choose another path. "I am glad to hear such."

"Figures seein' as how you think the sun rises and sets on that jackass."

"Inuyasha, my family has been in the service of your brother for centuries. Although I have no illusions as to what Lord Sesshomaru is, he has never been anything but fair to my ancestors."

"Fair enough, but lets just go with it's a matter of opinion."

Nodding once, Kadira answered, "Agreed, now, is there something specific that occurred this morning that has you so preoccupied?"

Clearing his throat, Inuyasha's eyes once again fell to his lap. "Since I agreed, Sesshomaru seems intent on courtin' me. I told him that wasn't necessary, but you know how he is when he gets an idea in his head. Anyways, I'm not really sure what all that entails, but he told me to be ready to go out to eat tonight. I'm supposed to be ready by seven and wear somethin' dressy, you know, not what I've been wearin'. I just . . . I ain't sure what's really considered nice clothes for this era. Plus . . . " Trailing off, Inuyasha looked up to the sky and sighed.

"Inuyasha, I can only help when you tell me everything. Believe me, we will find a solution."

"Well, unless you can give an uncultured half-breed proper table manners between now and seven, then I don't think there's a hell of a lot of hope."

"I see. Let us tackle the issue of dress first. I believe there is suitable clothing already prepared and within the closet in your room. If you will allow, I will help you pick out something to wear tonight. Also, if it would please you, I would be more than happy to help comb your hair as well. Previously I found the task both pleasurable and soothing."

Shrugging his shoulders, Inuyasha simply answered, "Do what ya want. I mean, it'd be nice if you'd help with the clothin' and stuff."

"Good, now, if you wish to look your best for tonight, I would suggest we stop what we are doing here and get you into the bath. That much hair takes a bit to dry."

Looking into the miko's brown eyes, Inuyasha couldn't help but ask, "So, ya really don't mind?"

"Not in the least. Now, about the second part, Lord Sesshomaru is well aware of your actions and habits. I do not believe he is concerned about how you will act tonight. If he is not, then neither should you be."

"Maybe. I just don't wanna embarrass him. I mean, he is the Lord of all Asia. When word gets out that he's courtin' a Hanyou the purists are gonna have a fuckin' field day. He don't need me lookin' like the ill mannered half-breed I am."

"Inuyasha," Kadira sighed, "I know full well Lord Sesshomaru would reprimand you for using such words and phrases to define yourself. Besides, have you ever known your brother to care what other's think? The beauty of being so powerful is that other's opinions become inconsequential. Lord Sesshomaru believes you to be worthy of being his mate. More than that, his Youkai has agreed and that is all that is needed."

Shoulder's slightly slumped, Inuyasha knew it wouldn't be that easy. Even if what Kadira said was true, there were bound to be repercussions about the Lord of all Asia mating a Hanyou, and not only a Hanyou, but a male one at that. There would be no heirs. Maybe Sesshomaru was strong enough, but it still worried Inuyasha's mind and he was wise enough to know adding fuel to the flame of his parentage was never a good thing.

Seeing Inuyasha's continued distress, Kadira could only do so much. She suspicioned that in this particular case, time was what was truly needed to prove her point. Feeling as if she could do no more, Kadira hoisted herself from the ground. "Come, we'd best be getting you to the bath. While you're doing that, I will choose a few items from the clothes Lord Sesshomaru had made for you to pick from."

Standing with an ease Kadira envied, Inuyasha got up and began making his way towards the door. "Not sure I like the idea of you snoopin' through my shit."

Reclining her head back in laughter, Kadira's slow gait shuffled behind the Hanyou. "Oh, my dear Inuyasha, how do you think I already know there are appropriate clothes within your closet?"

Stopping in his tracks, Inuyasha turned, eyes narrowed. "Perverted wench."

"In case you had failed to notice, there is precious little entertainment within your room and I was there watching over you for many an hour when Lord Sesshomaru first brought you home. Although you are truly a beautiful creature, that much time spent observing the rise and fall of your chest grew a little dull. With these old bones in need of stretching, it seemed only natural to investigate the things Lord Sesshomaru had purchased for you."

Hearing all that made Inuyasha's flushed cheeks all the redder. Of course he'd known he'd been unconscious, but hearing that someone had been watching over him . . . "See, it's just as I said, you're a perverted miko wench."

"Perhaps, but at this moment, my curiosity has proven useful as I am now able to help you more fully."

"Yeah, whatever. You just stay the hell outta the bathroom while I'm naked. You got that."

"I shall endeavor to hide my disappointment."

Raising his eyebrows, Inuyasha's amber eyes went wide. "You makin' fun of me now?"

"I'd never dream of it. Now, if we are done, time is wasting and your hair is not getting the least bit cleaner."

"-Keh, I'm movin'."

Smiling, Kadira stifled her laughter while slowly following Inuyasha's retreating figure. Oh, she was more than pleased the Hanyou had accepted her Lord's courtship proposal. Each was exactly what the other needed and the old miko was more than happy that she'd lived long enough to see this day come to pass. How jealous her ancestors would be when she finally passed through the vail and stepped into eternity that she had had the privilege of not only meeting Inuyasha, but the pleasure of watching as the young InuHanyou was properly courted and mated. Finally the pup would have a modicum of happiness in his life, of that, Kadira was sure.

::::::::::

Currently, Sesshomaru found the idea that he'd held his brother within his arms mere hours ago next to impossible. For that scene was far removed from the bloody remains of the deceitful spider Youkai littering the floor but a few inches from his feet. Beside him, Kouga was coughing and waving his hand at the mist of miasma disseminating in the air. "Damn, I'll never get used to that stench."

Ignoring the comment, the DaiYoukai was deep in thought. He'd misjudged the depth of Tullic's reach. In the end, the outcome would be the same, but it was regretful that the actions of one idiotic Youkai was upsetting the Lord of all Asia's carefully crafted society. Although Tullic himself was of little consequence, the scorpion Youkai was foolishly making waves where there should be none. At this rate, it was but a matter of time before curious humans began sniffing around. And, Lord Sesshomaru did not enjoy dispensing of meddlesome humans. Extinguishing the life of something so pathetically weak was a disgrace to his station.

Watching the last of the spider Youkai's limbs dissolve into nothing but a puddle of goo, Sesshomaru thought back to what they'd learned and frowned. Before dying, the spider had provided some interestingly disturbing information. Evidently Kouga's mind was running along similar lines as he stated, "Fuckin' Delusions. There's a reason that shit was outlawed." Combing his claws through his hair, the Wolf King asked, "You gonna bring Shippo in?"

"We can no longer avoid it," Sesshomaru answered, his stoic mask hiding his reluctance to do just that. It was no secret that Shippo generally tried to avoid anything of this nature. The fox was gifted and through hard work had become a force in his own right, but Shippo took no pleasure in death. In Sesshomaru's eyes, it was a definite flaw.

"He ain't gonna like it, but now this involves one of his own. I gotta say, knowin' Tullic has a fox in his back pocket ain't gonna let me sleep any better at night. Don't get me wrong, I like Shippo well enough, but foxes are born cunning and conniving little bastards."

"Indeed. They have the potential to be troublesome."

"Troublesome? Is that all you gotta say on the matter? Damn Sesshomaru, given enough power, those little freaks can do a hell of a lot of damage. Damage in the form of magic and that ain't somethin' you or I can manage."

"It is of little consequence. This Sesshomaru will put an end to Tullic and all his allies."

Looking up at the cold tower that was Lord Sesshomaru, Kouga felt a chill run through his veins. Sure, he wasn't happy to know they were dealing with some kind of rouge fox on top of everything, but even with that, Tullic was still a bloody ass fool going up against the InuDaiYoukai. Maybe it had been too long since Sesshomaru had flexed his power, because these idiots needed a reminder pronto, and somehow Kouga felt fairly confident that reminder was currently riding their collective ass's. "Okay, but somehow I got a feelin' that end ain't gonna be tonight."

"No, it will not."

Hearing that, Kouga's tail fell limp, brushing dejectedly along his back legs. Noting the wolf's normally brusque demeanor was anything but, Sesshomaru raised a single, elegant eyebrow. "Is there something you require?"

Shifting on his feet, Kouga glanced off to the side. "Between this thing with Tullic, those damn squabbling cat Youkai and watchin' over the mutt, I ain't seen Ayame in a couple weeks."

"And this is supposed to mean something to this Sesshomaru?"

"Damn it," Kouga growled, frustration making him momentarily forget who he was talking to. "You're not even mated to Inuyasha yet and I'll bet there's no way in hell you'd let anything keep you away from him for two weeks at a time."

Staring fixedly, Sesshomaru's golden eyes burned with cold fire as he contemplated the wolf's statement. "There is little left here to do regarding Tullic and seeing as how you've settled the squabbling cat Youkai's dilemma as well as the fact that Inuyasha now accepts my presence, I see no reason why you should be denied your mate any longer."

Tail up and wagging vigorously, Kouga's blue eyes blazed with fire. "No shittin'? You really don't care if I take off for a couple of days?"

"This Sesshomaru does not repeat himself. I expect you back tomorrow."

"Tomorrow? That ain't hardly enough time – "

"Knowing the nature of your visit, I hardly believe that to be true, however, if it would suit, you may bring Lady Ayame with you for a few days. Surely one of your offspring is old enough to watch over your tribe for that limited amount of time."

"Yeah, Jallial has been pesterin' us for awhile now about takin' on more responsibility around the clan."

"Then be gone from my presence."

Goofy grin plastered across his face, Kouga shot from the room. As the wolf Youkai left, Sesshomaru could hear Kouga as he spoke to his mate on his cell phone. Unfortunately, the DaiYoukai caught the wolf's salacious overtures as he told Ayame in no uncertain terms that she was to be stripped down, legs spread in preparation for his return. Now left alone with the nearly disintegrated remains of the spider Youkai before him, Sesshomaru's disgust found fresh justification. He'd met Lady Ayame on numerous occasions and why she'd ever mated that disgusting wolf was beyond him.

Free of intrusions, Sesshomaru thought about what he'd just learned and how it affected him. He'd told Kouga that there was little to be troubled over, and mostly, the DaiYoukai believed this, but Inuyasha's presence was a concern. More than a concern if he were honest. True, the Hanyou's health had returned and his strength was almost equal to when they'd battled Naraku, but the mere thought of anything or anyone trying to harm his intended mate stirred Sesshomaru's Youkai to near untamable levels.

Knowing the danger, a part of the Lord of the West thought it was all the more reason to keep Inuyasha safe within their home, but there would always be threats, even once Tullic was dealt with, another would eventually step in to take his place. He could not keep the Hanyou hidden forever, nor did he want to. Sesshomaru enjoyed the company of his little brother and found it increasingly difficult to be parted from him. No, just as before, keeping Inuyasha stashed away like some kind of treasured pet simply would not do.

With the remains of the spider now all but a memory, Sesshomaru turned both his mind and body away from his duties as ruler of the Asian Lands. With Inuyasha's agreement to be courted, the DaiYoukai had so much more interesting things to think about.

I know Inuyasha is really self-conscious in this chapter, but I just gotta think that years of negative comments have to do some damage to ones psyche. To me, that makes him all the stronger. He keeps fighting and pushing through no matter what.

This chapter also introduced a lot of what is to come . . . Inuyasha's courting . . . Ayame's going to be making an appearance later . . . and, what the fuck's a "Delusion" and why are they so bad? You'll have to keep reading to find out. On that line of thinking, I think the next chapter is kinda fun and will be the beginning of Inuyasha's courtship. Yeah!

As always, thank you all for continuing to read and review. This story is a lot of fun for me and I hope it is for you as well.

Until tomorrow night (hopefully) . . . lunamist