Chapter 9- The Plains Leaders Decision
"Sessho, come on!" Kagome whined, and Sesshomaru sighed. It was only half an hour before the meeting the plains leaders had decided to have to discuss what had happened recently. "You can't go Kagome," Sesshomaru said, dressing into a black kimono with a silver wolf imprinted on the front of it, "you're still hurt and if we get attacked..." "Than I'll fight," Kagome said, staring at Sesshomaru frustratingly on their bed. "Kagome...," Sesshomaru said, starting to become agitated. He donned his fur pelt, armor, and two swords and turned towards Kagome with a serious look.
"You're not coming," Sesshomaru said and Kagome gave an angry snort and turned her back to Sesshomaru. Sesshomaru couldn't help but feel hurt by Kagome's display of anger and sighed. "I know you want to come," Sesshomaru said, running a hand through her hair, "but it's really dangerous for you to be out there right now, and I want you to stay safe." Kagome didn't respond to him and he sighed again and was about to walk out the door when a quiet voice said, "You be careful out there Sessho." Sesshomaru turned and gave her a warm smile and said, "Always am."
Kagome eyes had lost their determined look and now held a worried one. Sesshomaru couldn't help but walk back and kiss her gently, nuzzling his head against hers before whispering, "I'll be back. Promise." "I believe you," Kagome muttered, and Sesshomaru forced himself to leave the room. He walked to the stables where A-un was being prepped for takeoff by a servant. "He's ready to go Lord Sesshomaru," The servant said, stepping back. Sesshomaru nodded to the servant and jumped onto A-un's back. A-Un gave a pleasured roar at being ridden as Sesshomaru urged him onward.
He had no actual need to ride A-Un, but he'd decided it was nice to have company on journeys like these. The Plains leaders met in the middle of all the plains leaders' houses in an open glade that had a stream running through the middle of it. Sesshomaru landed there now, and quickly discovered he was the first one here. It did not take long for Luna and Solaris to show up however, and they greeted him warmly. "Where is Kagome Sesshomaru?" Luna asked him, and Sesshomaru noticed for the second time she wore a serious expression on her face.
"She's still injured from the invasion," Sesshomaru said, "I didn't want to risk bringing her in case we were attacked again." Luna nodded and Solaris said, "I'm sorry to hear she got hurt Sesshomaru." Sesshomaru nodded and watched as the leaders of the South Plains Leaders, Kurt and Odessa, show up. Kurt was as lean as Sesshomaru was, but his hair stood up in black spikes. He wore his usual royal red armor, with a two handed sword strapped to his back. His eyes were an emerald green; a contrast from Odessa's whose eyes were blue. Odessa herself had long purple hair that curled up at the end. She wore an armor similar to Kurt's except for hers was black. She also sported two daggers on each side of her hips.
"I heard you mated Sesshomaru," Kurt said, a warm smile on his face, "I'm really happy for you. Is your mate not here?" Sesshomaru shook his head and said, "She was injured during the battle and she's still recuperating." "I'm sorry she didn't have a chance to come," Odessa now spoke much to Sesshomaru's annoyance, "I would have loved to see what youkai could've pleasured the great Sesshomaru." "Human," Sesshomaru said tonelessly, "she was human before we mated." A shocked look crossed both the South Plain Leaders faces before Rugga, one of the leaders from the East Plains appeared in the clearing. Rugga was a muscular youkai who wielded two heavy blades on his back, and was a huge power force on the field although he lacked in speed. Something his mate, Roxie, usually made up for.
"Greetings," Rugga huffed, seeming to lack his usual robust personality. "Hello Rugga," Luna said, patting the big youkai on the arm reassuringly, "I heard about Roxie, I'm terribly sorry she was injured." "She's coming out of it though," Rugga said in a more optimistic tone, "why this morning she was grumbling about how much she wanted to come to the meeting." Sesshomaru gave an amused snort and Rugga turned towards him with an angry expression on his face. "So you think that's funny huh!" Rugga yelled, taking a threatening step towards Sesshomaru.
"No," Sesshomaru said and explained simply, "it just reminded me of my own mate." "You mated?" Rugga said shockingly, finally noticing the mating mark on Sesshomaru's neck, "I never thought it would happen..." A small tick appeared on Sesshomaru's forehead but he said, "Now that our pleasantries are over, why don't we cut straight down to business. We all know how big a blow each of us was dealt last night. So the question is who is still in need of assistance?" "We're perfectly fine," Rugga said when everybody cast glances his way, "we've replaced the servants we lost and hired guards to protect our mansion around the clock. To the Plains Leaders who did send us help, we are sending your servants back today and I thank you."
Rugga turned to Sesshomaru than and said, "But I thank you most of all. If you hadn't sent that servant out there to check on us and send us backup when you did, I don't know what would've become of us." Sesshomaru nodded his head and said, "It was nothing. Now what are we going to do about this threat? Does anybody have any information on them whatsoever?" "I...I recognized...most of them," Luna began slowly, casting her eyes down toward the ground. Solaris patted her back reassuringly and taking a deep breathe she said, "They were from the organization my family is affiliated with. The one the Plains Leaders before us beat down." "Do you think they're trying to kill us to ensure their plan is a success this time?" Kurt asked and at this Luna shrugged.
"I do know they know how to manipulate the power of the Sacred Jewel to increase there overall strength," Luna said, and Odessa sneered. "She just admitted herself she's related to these youkai's," Odessa said her tone cold, "how are we to know that she herself isn't relaying back to them everything we say?" "I'M NOT LIKE THEM!" Luna roared and angrily charged Odessa and they went rolling across the glade. "I'll handle it," Rugga said, walking over towards the tussling plains leaders. He picked both of them up like they weighed nothing, and held them by the scruff of their neck until they calmed down.
He sat them back by their respective mates and walked back to the spot he'd been standing before.
Luna smirked now as Odessa wiped a trickle of blood that was running from a scratch on her forehead. "This is no time to be fighting amongst ourselves," Sesshomaru growled, and watched as the smirk on Luna's face faded. "And that was very uncalled for Odessa," Kurt said in a disapproving tone and Odessa muttered an apology to Luna. "I think the first thing we need to do is alarm the people in our Plains and increase the security around our own homes. Than we can come up with a concrete decision on what to do with the organization," Solaris said and the other Plain Leaders agreed with him.
"And to enact the ancient security systems around our own homes in case the youkai guards are not a match for the threat we face," Sesshomaru said, and Solaris snickered. "That's the first time I've heard you make that suggestion Sesshomaru," Solaris said, combing a hand through his blue hair, "is it because you actually have a mate to activate the security system with this time?" Sesshomaru gave Solaris an unamused glare and said, "Does anyone else have an idea or suggestion? I've already been away from Kagome longer than I would have liked."
The Plains Leaders shook their heads and Luna said, "This is the shortest meeting we've ever had, it's only lasted an hour." "The times are pressing Luna," Sesshomaru said, and was shocked when she gave him a hug. "Just in case I don't see you again," Luna said, giving him a small smile. "You will," Sesshomaru stated simply hugging her back awkwardly. Rugga gave him a bone crushing hug while Solaris and Kurt settled for a handshake. "I better see you again," Odessa said not joining in the festivity, "I still haven't met your mate." Sesshomaru couldn't help but smile and climbed onto A-un, waving bye to his fellow Plain Leaders.
He returned home quicker than when he left it and a servant was waiting expectantly to place A-Un back in his stable. He bowed and taking the reins from Sesshomaru, began to water and feed the hungry two-headed dragon. Sesshomaru ran back to his room anxiously and upon opening the door found Kagome eating food she'd brought from the modern era. "You're back!" Kagome purred and putting the bowl down she tried to get up. "Lay back down," Sesshomaru muttered, pushing her back down gently, "I don't want you to strain your stitches. Give it another day than it should be all healed up."
Kagome sighed but, switching over to their bond said, "How did the meeting go? Is Roxie okay?" "The meeting went great," Sesshomaru sent back, climbing into bed with her after shedding his armor, swords, and fur pelt, "And Roxie is recovering nicely. She wasn't at the meeting but Rugga, her mate, was there to confirm her current condition." "You're stressed," Kagome stated after Sesshomaru ran a hand through his hair, and Sesshomaru sighed. "How can I not be," Sesshomaru said, running a hand through his hair again. Kagome finished her bowl and was quiet for a moment before saying, "A2re we going to go back and get Rin?" "For now," Sesshomaru said, "I think she would be safer in the modern era."
Kagome nodded and, shifting slightly, laid her head on Sesshomaru's chest. He ran his hand through her hair and muttered, "I wonder where Jaken went?" Before Kagome could answer there was a knocking at the door. "Come in," Sesshomaru said and Carlene came in holding a tray of medical ointments. "Ahhhh!" Kagome yelled, throwing the cover over her, "she's come to torture me Sesshy!" Sesshomaru raised a brow and Carlene gave a bow jerkily as she tried to keep from laughing out loud. "Just come to put salve over Lady Kagome's stitches," Carlene said after her bow.
Sesshomaru chuckled and said, "It'll be fine Kagome." Kagome left the cover reluctantly and Carlene came over with the tray. "Lady Kagome?" Carlene said and Kagome sighed. "The first time wasn't enough?" Kagome muttered, undoing the sash around her kimono. "It won't hurt as bad this time," Carlene said, dabbing her hand into the pungent medicine and onto the stitches on Kagome's stomach. Sesshomaru noticed Kagome wince but spent more time looking at her body. The stitches on her belly interrupted a normally smooth and flat stomach, and the two purple stripes on each of her sides she had attained from mating him caught his eye with pride. Her hair had become wild and frizzy and he would often notice her vainly trying to comb a hand through her hair.
Sesshomaru could feel himself become aroused and he turned his head until Carlene had finished putting the medicine on Kagome's stomach, and Kagome had redressed herself. "See it's not so bad," Carlene purred, putting the salve on Kagome's arm now. "I suppose," Kagome muttered, still wincing. Carlene smiled indicated she was done, bowed again, and walked out. "Owwww," Kagome whined, "now my stitches throb again... Jeez thanks for backing me up Sesshomaru." Sesshomaru offered a smile but Kagome made a face. "I think you just wanted to see me undress," Kagome said accusingly, "I saw you staring." Sesshomaru laughed then and said, "Yes I won't try and deny that."
Kagome gave an amused smile and Sesshomaru said, "At the meeting the plains leaders decided we would enact the security systems set here by our ancestors to better protect ourselves." "And how do we do that?" Kagome asked, raising a brow. "In the garden," Sesshomaru explained, "there's a spot in the very center that absorbs a youkai's energy. After the necessary amount of energy is given, the security system is activated and incinerates any intruding force that means harm. But it requires two Plain Leaders to give their energy." "It must take a lot," Kagome marveled, "so I guess I need to learn how to do that then, huh?" Sesshomaru nodded and Kagome lay back down on his chest saying, "We can start tomorrow."
Xxxxxxxxx Sunday morning- Sesshomaru's place xxxxxxxxxxxX
"UGGHH!" Kagome's voice could be heard throughout the house, "WHAT"S WRONG WITH MY HAIR!" "I like it like that," Sesshomaru purred, as Kagome frustratingly tried to get a comb through it. "Are you kidding me?" Kagome groaned finally tossing the comb down in defeat, "It looks like I'm having a bad hair day." Sesshomaru walked over towards Kagome from the spot he's been staring out the window at, and playfully swiped at the long frizzy hair on Kagome's back. Kagome gave a half-hearted growl and Sesshomaru swiped at it again. Kagome roared then and tackled Sesshomaru, who quickly rolled them over before they landed onto the bed.
"Cheater," Kagome said, sticking her tongue out. Sesshomaru only purred and let her up. "Doesn't Carlene have to take those stitches out today?" Sesshomaru asked, and Kagome gave a heavy sigh. "Yeah, I suppose," Kagome muttered and as if Carlene could sense them talking about her the door was knocked upon and Carlene came in holding another tray of medical things. "Carlene," Kagome groaned, but the servant shook her head. "I can't let those stitches stay in Lady Kagome," Carlene said, a stern look on her face. Kagome could smell the pungent smelling medicine again, but could also see what look to be a pair of tweezers and a thin dagger.
"On second thought," Kagome said hesitantly, "I don't think it's healed all the way yet..." Carlene frowned and said, "Of course it has. You're a youkai now and youkai's wounds heal faster than human wounds do." Kagome hid behind Sesshomaru as Carlene neared and Sesshomaru began to purr in amusement. "Kagome," Sesshomaru said, "it'll all be over in a quick second." "You also said it would be fine yesterday and that still hurt," Kagome reminded him, poking his back. Sesshomaru turned around and pushed Kagome onto the bed gently saying, "Just close your eyes."
Kagome sighed and did as Sesshomaru suggested. She could feel the salve being put on the stitches on her arm, before she felt a tug and a pull and the stitch slowly began to come off. When the stitch was completely gone, Kagome felt a tug at her sash and the salve being placed on the stitches on her stomach. The same process was repeated and Carlene purred, "I'm done Lady Kagome." Kagome redressed hurriedly and muttered, "Thank god." "Now it'll be a little sore for a couple of hours," Carlene said as she walked away, "but after that you'll be pain-free!" She bowed before she walked out and left with a spring in her step.
"I think she likes tending to you," Sesshomaru said as Kagome rubbed the area where the stitch used to be on her arm. "Well, I hope she doesn't get too used to it," Kagome muttered, frowning at the bruise already beginning to form there. "I hope that too," Sesshomaru muttered, staring at the bruise as well. Kagome got up and stretched giggling when Sesshomaru hugged her from behind. "Are we going to work on that thing today?" Kagome asked, and as Sesshomaru started to kiss her mark said, "Or are you going to try and bed me first?" "Why would I have to try?" Sesshomaru purred, caressing her stomach, "will my mate refuse me?"
Kagome giggled and said, "Maybe." Sesshomaru smiled then and said, "I don't think she would..."
Xxxxxxxxxx Undisclosed Location xxxxxxxX
"I personally think we should go after Sesshomaru," A female sitting at the long table said haughtily. "We don't have time to go after your little crush," A burly man growled, "he's mated now anyhow. He's probably making love her as we speak!" "Shut up!" The female yelled, jumping up, "I'll kill his mate, I swear it! If I can't have him, no one can!" "Settle down Louisa," A cold calculating voice said at the head of the table, "you'll have your revenge soon enough."
Louisa sighed and sat back down in her seat, "I'm sorry Luan, it just irks me." There were fourteen youkais present in the room, all sitting at the table. Sunlight illuminated the mahogany brown of the table, while a rich blue carpet sat underneath it. Cobblestone decorated the floor, and a huge fireplace sat behind the head of the table. "It would make logical sense to go after Luna," Luan said deep in thought, "my sister would know the most about our organization. And how to end us if she started thinking the way she used to." "She's also the second strongest out of all the plains leaders," Another man grumbled. "We still haven't gauged the strength of Sesshomaru's new mate," A females voice drawled, "how can we rank them without doing so?"
"So you think we should spend more time analyzing our opponents Ericka?" Luan asked, tilting his head slightly. "I don't know," Ericka muttered after a moment of thinking, "every move we make is so high risk..." "We could be trying to find more Sacred Jewel pieces," A man suggested. Luan shook his head dismissively, "Too much like needles in a haystack. I think our best bet will be to try Ericka's plan, and decide where to go from there. Send out spies and contact the ones we already have in place. You're all dismissed." All the youkai's got up and left leaving Luan at the table. "Twilight will succeed this time," Luan purred, staring out a window, "when the Plains Leaders fall we shall rise!"
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxx The Garden- Sesshomaru's house xxxxxxxxxxxX
"So do you got it?" Sesshomaru purred and Kagome nodded. "Yeah," Kagome said, trying to comb a hand through her hair, "I'm ready when you are." Sesshomaru nodded and grasping her hand reached into the reserves of youkai energy inside him. Kagome did so as well, and both begin to pour it into the ground around them. Kagome felt an omniscient force asking for more energy, and after a few minutes she felt hers begin to falter. "Almost there Kagome," Sesshomaru muttered, feeling the slow decrease in the amount of energy she was putting out.
Kagome whined and picked up the pace again, but not without consequence. She could feel herself become light-headed, and the more energy she put out, the harder it was to hold a grasp on what was going on around her. A strange moaning sound filled the air and the omniscient force stopped taking their energy. "It's done," Sesshomaru purred and Kagome fell back onto the grass, breathing harshly. "You okay Kagome?" Sesshomaru asked, starting to get worried. Kagome didn't answer immediately and Sesshomaru brushed a strand of hair out of her face tenderly. "Kagome?" Sesshomaru asked again and Kagome held up a finger, indicating she wanted Sesshomaru to wait.
When Kagome had regained most of her breath, she sat up slowly. "Bed Sessho," Kagome muttered and Sesshomaru picked her up. "Are you alright?" Sesshomaru asked, starting to walk towards their bedroom. Kagome nodded then and said, "I'm just tired." "Are you sure?" Sesshomaru asked, closing the door behind him after he walked into the room, "I can always get Carlene to come check you out." At this Kagome vehemently shook her head saying, "I'll be fine once I get some sleep." "Alright," Sesshomaru said, putting her onto the bed. He pulled the cover over her and muttered, "I have to go do some things. I'll be right back promise." Kagome nodded slowly, already half-asleep. He kissed her lightly, and left the room with a sigh. "Did I expect too much of her?" Sesshomaru thought in a berating manner, "should I have waited a little while before trying to activate the security system?" He walked into his office and immediately sighed at the amount of scrolls on his desk. He had been slacking off lately, an unusual trait for him.
He pulled a string that was next to his chair and a few seconds later Lloyd came through the door. "Yes my Lord?" Lloyd said bowing. "I want you to gather some of the servants and have them warn all the villages in my jurisdiction about the oncoming threat," Sesshomaru said and Lloyd bowed again. "I have something to tell my Lord as well," Lloyd said, "I... I noticed a servant named Aseoth leaving the house last night so... I followed him..." "What?" Sesshomaru said, shocked, "where did he go?" "A grand castle," Lloyd said then he shivered, "you had to walk through a long tunnel and climb half up a mountain to reach it... I... I think he's affiliated with those youkai's who attacked us Lord Sesshomaru."
"Do you remember the way" Sesshomaru pressed and Lloyd nodded. "I made sure to remember every single detail to please my Lord," Lloyd purred and Sesshomaru smiled. "Thank you Lloyd," Sesshomaru said, sitting back in his chair, "and now I have an extra request of you. I want you to gather three more servants and have them go to each of the Plains Leaders houses and request another meeting." "Yes sir," Lloyd said with a bow, "may I be one of those servants?" Sesshomaru was quiet for a moment before he shook his head. "You have valuable information," Sesshomaru explained when the servants look became crestfallen, "I can't risk losing you." "I understand," Lloyd muttered, bowing again. He walked away then and Sesshomaru purred contently. He'd finally had a chance to destroy the people who had dared to infiltrate his home, and attack his mate.
"Now to deal with Aseoth," Sesshomaru purred louder, his claws beginning to drip poison with his excitement."
Xxxxxxxxxx Lunch time xxxxxxxxxxxX
Sesshomaru sat down at the table alone, something he had not done for some time. Kagome was still sleeping and Sesshomaru figured that she must've of been more tired than he originally figured. Sesshomaru sighed and started to eat the ham slowly when several tired and sweaty servants came into the dining room. "We've notified all the villages," The servant huffed after he'd bowed and Sesshomaru nodded. "Very well," Sesshomaru said, and the servants bowed before they walked away. "Luna would know more about this than me," Sesshomaru thought, his thoughts back onto Kagome, "After all Solaris used to be a human too." He made a mental note to talk to Luna about it when three more servants walked in.
"All the Plains Leaders have agreed to hold a meeting this evening at sunset," A servant Sesshomaru recognized as Karina said. Sesshomaru nodded and said, "Okay." A question burned deep inside Karina's eyes as the other servants walked away and Sesshomaru said, "Yes?" "This is about what Lloyd saw Aseoth doing isn't it?" Karina said and when Sesshomaru raised a brow said, "I saw him leave out last night. And I saw Lloyd follow him. It caught my interest but I didn't want to follow them in case they were doing something vile." "Yes," Sesshomaru answered and Karina seemed to be satisfied with the simple answer because she went on to ask, "Where is Lady Kagome?"
"Sleeping," Sesshomaru said, her constant questions starting to annoy him. "Is she sick?" Karina went on than in a hushed tone said, "Or is the rumor true?" "Rumor?" Sesshomaru asked, despite his annoyance with the servant she had spiked his interest. "You don't know?" Karina asked, displaying an obvious like for gossiping, "All the servants say that Kagome is with child." A red blush flew across Sesshomaru's cheeks and the servant laughed. "Its true isn't it?" Karina said, and Sesshomaru shook his head. "It just caught me off guard that's all," Sesshomaru said, more annoyed with Karina now than he was before. "Why?" Karina pushed on, "everybody can hear what you two are doing during various parts of the day. Why just this morning..." "Enough Karina," Sesshomaru growled and Karina bowed low saying, "I was wondering when you were going to ask me to stop."
Karina walked away then and Sesshomaru sighed. "What a bold youkai," Sesshomaru marveled grudgingly. Sesshomaru finished his lunch now and leaned back with a sigh when the sound of clanging metal caught his ears. "Swords?" Sesshomaru instantly jumping up. He ran to the source of the sound and quickly found it to be originating from the garden. The clanging got louder and now he could hear a clear distinct voice along with it. "That sounds like Lloyd," Sesshomaru thought, and ran into the garden quickly. Sesshomaru stopped in his tracks and stared at the sight in front of him with a mixture of shock and pride. Kagome was in a sword battle with Lloyd, and holding her own pretty well.
"Faster Lady Kagome!" Lloyd yelled after dodging a sword attack, "You're giving me too much time to counterstrike!" Kagome roared frustratingly and attacked him again. "Are you sure two swords is what suits your fancy?" Lloyd asked almost tauntingly. "Don't play with me Lloyd!" Kagome yelled, finally tapping into her youkai speed. Two swords instantly went flying across the garden, and Lloyd now stood defenseless before Kagome. "My Lady must forgive me," Lloyd started to mutter, bowing low, "I thought you were holding back on me because we were friends..." "If we were friends," Kagome said giving him a smirk, "you would stop calling me Lady Kagome. It sounds weird."
"Well Kagome," Lloyd said with another bow. Kagome sighed and was about to say something when her eyes drifted towards the doorway. "Sesshy!" Kagome yelled running towards him. He hugged her when she reached him and said, "I thought you were still sleeping." "I was about thirty minutes ago," Kagome purred and Sesshomaru marveled at how fast the time seemed to have flown by. "You seem to feel better," Sesshomaru said and Kagome nodded. "I was just tired," Kagome said again and then she smiled, "did you see, what I just did?" "Yes, you're quite talented with the sword," Sesshomaru said, and Kagome beamed. "Talented enough to beat you?" Kagome asked and Sesshomaru laughed.
"Maybe," Sesshomaru said with a chuckle, "before I forget the Plains Leaders are going to hold another meeting today at sunset. Do you want to...?" "Of course!" Kagome yelled, running off, "I'm going to go get ready for it!"
Xxxxxxxxxx At sunset xxxxxxX
"Kagome we're going to be late," Sesshomaru muttered, as Kagome once again struggled with her hair, "I've told you your hair looks fine." Kagome growled and said, "My hair looks like a birds nest." Then with a sigh Kagome dropped the comb and said, "but I suppose we better get going, its not getting any better than this." The frizzy hair came halfway down Kagome's back, adding a slightly wild look to Kagome's appearance. Kagome walked towards the stables with an amused Sesshomaru following behind her. As before a servant had prepared A-Un for take off, and Sesshomaru took the reins from the servant. He jumped up onto A-Un's back, and Kagome did so as well.
A-Un took off with eagerness, Sesshomaru only having to guide A-Un on where to go sparingly. "Do you like those two swords?" Sesshomaru asked, commenting on the swords Kagome had on her hips, "or do you miss the bow? That is the weapon you used to use, isn't it?" "Yes," Kagome said in a tone of thought, "I honestly can't decide which one I like more." Sesshomaru gave a, "hnnnnnnn," and started to descend as the glade came into view. Kagome jumped down from A-Un when he landed and was instantly greeted by an excited Luna. "Why, look at you!" Luna purred hugging her, "The last time I saw you, you were on your death bed!" Kagome smiled and said, "Its nice to see you too Luna."
Sesshomaru walked up next to Kagome who had followed Luna to the center of the glade. "Hi there," Solaris purred, hugging Kagome as well, "I'm glad to finally get a chance to meet the infamous Kagome." Kagome laughed and said, "I don't know about infamous..." Rugga and Roxie burst into the clearing suddenly, laughing voraciously. "I win!" Roxie purred and Rugga huffed, "I almost had you." "Roxie!" Luna yelled, and the two youkai's greeted each other warmly. "I was worried about you," Luna said after they'd hugged. "Awwww," Roxie said, running a hand through her flaming red hair, "thanks Luna." Roxie, like Odessa, sported a dagger on each side of her hip, but she wore a flaming red kimono to match her hair.
"I hear Sesshomaru has a mate," Roxie purred and Luna gestured towards Kagome who Sesshomaru had pulled into a conversation. "Is she nice?" Roxie asked and Luna nodded. "A real sweetheart," Luna purred and Rugga laughed. "I always figured Sesshomaru's mate would be just as cold as he is," Rugga said, than tilted his head, "But Kagome's really mellowed him out some I'd say." "Lets go meet her," Roxie said, grasping Rugga's hand. The two plains leaders walked over to where Kagome and Sesshomaru stood, and Sesshomaru greeted them with a nod of his head. Kagome gave a timid ,"hi," and Roxie laughed. "She is a sweetheart," Roxie purred, "My name's Roxie. And this is my mate Rugga." "You're the East Plains Leaders," Kagome stated, and Roxie laughed again. "Sesshomaru talked about us?" Roxie said, "well that's shocking." Sesshomaru was spared from saying anything when Kurt and Odessa came into the clearing riding on a horse-sized white fox this time. Sesshomaru walked over towards Luna then who was watching Odessa like a hawk eyeing their prey.
"I wasn't thinking about hurting her...," Luna started upon noticing Sesshomaru, but Sesshomaru shook his head. "Solaris used to be a human too right?" Sesshomaru asked and Luna nodded. "Yeah," Luna said glad Sesshomaru seemed not to have cared, "but you know that Sesshomaru." "When Solaris was first learning to use his youkai energy," Sesshomaru started, "did he tire easily?" "No," Luna said, and then with a laugh said, "he was using his longer than me actually. Why? Is Kagome tiring easily?" Sesshomaru nodded and Luna laughed and said, "No that shouldn't be the reason why. I know that pregnant youkais tire easily though... is she...?"
Sesshomaru blushed at hearing the question again but this time he said, "I... I'm not sure." Luna purred then and said, "I'll find out for you." Luna suddenly gave a large roar and pounced upon an unsuspecting Kagome, who was chatting with the East and South Plains Leaders and Solaris. Kagome and Luna went rolling, but Kagome managed to separate herself from Luna briefly. "Luna what are you...?" Kagome asked, when Luna formed a fist and was about to drive it right into Kagome's abdomen. Kagome eyes turned feral then, and she grabbed Luna's fist, flipping the Plains Leader around. Luna twisted in the air and landed on her feet, and briefly catching the red in Kagome's eyes before it was replaced by a confused look.
"Luna...?" Kagome said, unsure of what to do. "Oh nothing," Luna purred, ruffling Kagome's hair, "I just wanted to see how fast you would react." "Now that we're all here," Odessa said, eyeing them with a look of boredom, "can we cut straight down to the chase? Why on Earth did you call this meeting Sesshomaru?" "One of my servants had found the hideout of the organization that attacked us," Sesshomaru said. He was partially anxious to know what Luna would say, causing his mind to wander a little. "He found what?" Roxie said, a fire entering her eyes, "ohhhhh, I'm going to make those youkai's pay for what they did to us!" "We can't rush in there without a plan," Kurt finally said, when Sesshomaru didn't criticize Roxie's comment.
Everybody wondered at this, and found Sesshomaru staring at Kagome, a pondering look on his face. "Sesshomaru do you want something?" Kagome finally asked, and Sesshomaru seemed to come back to himself after he shook his head. "Well," Kagome said and the Plains Leaders turned towards her with curiosity, "I don't think we should start mobilizing large forces all at one time. Than they'll know we're up to something and we wouldn't have the element of surprise anymore." "Especially since they're harboring spies among us," Sesshomaru said, and the Plains Leaders looked towards him in shock. "Spies?" Solaris asked, "is that how your servant found the hideout, by following one of their spies?" Sesshomaru nodded and Odessa snorted. "The girl with the bird's nest of hair does say intelligent things," Odessa said, giving Kagome a daring look.
Kagome growled unintentionally and Odessa laughed. "You wouldn't hurt me," Odessa hissed and before Sesshomaru could say anything Kagome had pounced onto Odessa sending both of the hissing Plains Leaders across the blade. "I got it," Rugga said, getting up. He walked over to the two female Plains Leaders and pulled them apart. He sat them back with their mates and walked back towards his. "Before we begin arguing," Luna said, with a roll of her eyes, "Odessa can we at least accomplish something?" "Whatever," Odessa muttered. "If we recruit people on a small-scale basis we could have a full blown army undetected by Friday of this week," Kurt said and Sesshomaru sighed.
"Not the most speedy plan," Sesshomaru muttered, "But for now I guess it's the best one we have. Unless someone else has another one?" "I think the reason those servants were leaving out was to give a report to the people in the organization," Kagome said, the Plains Leaders attention once again flying back to her, "so I think they already know a direct attack would gain them a swift death because of the security systems we all activated. I also believe that since the spies were recently at the organization's castle, their scent won't be quite the same. Making it easy to detect and get rid of them." "Bravo!" Solaris purred, "you've made an excellent choice in mating Sesshomaru!" Kagome gave a pleased blush and Sesshomaru couldn't help but feel proud.
"No more suggestions?" Sesshomaru said, his tone lighter. The Plains Leaders shook their heads and Kurt said, "So I guess we'll meet back here Friday with our armies intact correct?" The Plains Leaders nodded drawing the meeting to an official close. "Well," Luna said, "now that that's over, you know the rules you two." All the Plains Leaders turned towards Kagome and Sesshomaru who had given a heavy sigh. "I don't think this is the time for...," Sesshomaru began before Roxie interrupted him. "Come on Sesshomaru," Roxie purred, "you know when you first mate someone at the next meeting you have to kiss them in front of all the Plains Leaders."
Even Odessa and Kurt stared at them expectantly and Kagome raised a brow at Sesshomaru. "I didn't think they'd still want to do this custom considering the times," Sesshomaru said, giving a small smile of apology. "Well," Kagome said, "I'm ready if you are Sessho." Sesshomaru began a purr and wrapped his arms around Kagome's waist. Kagome wrapped her arms around Sesshomaru's neck, parting her lips when he sought to kiss her. Kagome forgot about the watching Plains Leaders as Sesshomaru tongue began to lovingly stroke hers. Kagome grasped Sesshomaru's silvery locks of hair as the kiss began to heat up, and he took it as a sign to stop. "Sorry," Sesshomaru said, and Kagome gave him an understanding smile.
Rugga wolf whistled and Roxie clapped excitedly. "You two are so cute together," Luna sighed, a dreamy smile on her face. "Thank you," Sesshomaru said, and Kurt said, "She seems to bring out the best of you Sesshomaru." "Indeed," Odessa said, and at this Sesshomaru simply said, "She does." The South Plains Leaders left than, riding out on the giant fox that they had rode in on. "Well I guess I'll see you Friday," Roxie said hugging Kagome. Rugga hugged Kagome as well and said, "I'm glad you didn't let Odessa intimidate you. I don't mind pulling anyone apart, if you feel the need to lunge at her again..." Kagome laughed and said, "Thanks Rugga." He smiled and after giving their goodbyes to the North Plains Leaders they left as well.
Luna and Solaris walked over towards them and Kagome hugged her. "You were my first Plains Leader friend," Kagome purred and Luna laughed. "Yes," Luna said hugging Kagome back happily, "and I'm glad to have that honor." Solaris smiled at Kagome and said, "If you keep that up during all the meetings, you'll hold just as prominent a spot as Sesshomaru all on your own." Kagome smiled than and Luna pulled Kagome aside, allowing Solaris to hold a conversation with Sesshomaru. "I have to tell you something," Luna said, playing with a strand of her pink curly hair, "first of all, I love the new hair! It really suits you. And secondly, do you remember when I attacked you, earlier today?" Kagome nodded and asked, "What was up with that?"
"I was checking to see something," Luna said than lowering her voice she said, "when a pregnant youkai's child is threatened, their beast automatically responds by temporarily taking over and blocking the oncoming attack. In severe cases it might try to kill its attacker." "Are...are you trying say you think I'm pregnant?" Kagome asked, time seeming to stop. "No," Luna said shaking her head, "I'm trying to say I know you're pregnant." Kagome stood there for a moment unsteadily before saying, "Luna... Luna the ground is spinning..." Luna caught Kagome right before she fainted and sighing carried her back to Sesshomaru. "Take her home," Luna said, giving Kagome to Sesshomaru, "I fear she's exhausted."
Before Sesshomaru could ask any questions Luna gave a quick wave and her and Solaris left. Sesshomaru climbed onto A-un and flew back home. He landed A-Un a little unsteadily and jumped down not heeding the servant that threw Kagome worried glances. He went straight to their bedroom and laid her down. He was about to leave to go get dinner when Kagome called out to him softly. "Kagome," Sesshomaru muttered, returning to her side instantly, "I was just going to get some food for us." He then saw the look of unbounded happiness in her eye, and he sat on the bed slowly. "I'm pregnant Sessho," Kagome said looking towards Sesshomaru nervously, "I... I'm with child..." Sesshomaru could only stare in stunned silence before a big smile broke out across his face. He purred loud enough to vibrate both of them and cuddled up with her happily.
There was a knock on the door then and Sesshomaru told them to come in airily. Lloyd walked in with a platter of food and shut the door behind him, but upon witnessing the scene he stopped hesitantly. "It's fine Lloyd," Kagome said smiling reassuringly, "just put the food right there." Lloyd did as he was told and Sesshomaru purred, "Have you heard that rumor that's going around the house?" Lloyd nodded uncertainly and muttered, "I... I did not know whether to believe it or not..." "Tell them its true," Sesshomaru said, and a stunned Lloyd bowed and muttered his congratulations before leaving. "Rumor?" Kagome asked and Sesshomaru laughed. "The servants suspected it before we did," Sesshomaru muttered, placing a hand on Kagome's stomach,"... I'm guessing you still want to fight?"
A determined look entered Kagome's eye and she nodded. Sesshomaru caught the look and said, "I won't stop you... but you have to promise me you'll stay safe." Kagome nodded again and said, "My knight in shining armor will see to that." "You know I will," Sesshomaru purred, kissing her mark tenderly.
************* Well that's it for chapter nine! :D As always the characters are a little OOC and if you no like no read! :P I don't own Inuyasha, and if you can spot any errors I missed, I'll gladly fix them. Merci! *****************