Hoshiko silently followed the two lords who walked before her. They did not speak, but the atmosphere around them was calming enough for the hybrid demoness to relax. Yet, the dark uneasy feelings inside her chest never waned enough for her to lower her guard completely but she knew she was safe. She had her friends and Sesshomaru with her. She wasn't alone. With this in mind, her eyes looked at the fine hallway. It was copper with elaborate designs of gold and white; she now wondered if Eagle demons were awed by such finery. It was like crows with precious things that sparkled. Her head shook slightly in amusement at that thought. As she gazed at the Northern and Western Lord's backs, she felt herself flash back to when they were in the large spacious hall. . .
"Welcome, Lord Sesshomaru and company. Welcome to the Northern Lands."
The voice that had spoken was full of formality and kindness, but still the greeting was respectful nevertheless. It surprised Hoshiko in a way. She had heard more formal and curt greetings along the lines of "Lord Inu No Taisho" or "Greetings, Lord Inu No Taisho, welcome," with an awed, formal, or even fearful voice. What startled her most was he had acknowledged her and the other two servants. No one had done that beforehand until Inu No Taisho certainly ensured they would address her. Yet, she held her breath when there was a momentary silence to the kind welcome. It was not unlike Sesshomaru to remain silent but still, this only made her nervous with each passing second. She despised her uneasiness. Why should a warrior, a powerful one to be trifled with, be so uneasy about a simple meeting and partnership with the Northern Lord? Then again, who wouldn't be after countless efforts against her life each day? She had been well introduced to claw, fang, and blade with her own skin and blood which was returned with her own grimly. She did not move from her position.
"Lord Takahiro," Lord Sesshomaru finally rumbled in greeting.
She almost sighed with relief at the sound of the Western Lord's voice.
"Lord Sesshomaru," Lord Takahiro returned simply.
Another small silence filled the room until the Northern Lord spoke up with a more serious tone.
"I am glad to see you are well and arrived without incident."
"I would kill those who stood in my way," Sesshomaru neutrally stated.
Lord Takahiro laughed softly.
"You have not changed. It has been many years since we last crossed paths, of course."
"Our paths only crossed when war was evident between us."
"Hai, indeed. I am glad we did not have to do so."
Sesshomaru inclined his head in response to that but his expression darkened somewhat.
"Only by negotiations that planted unease for years."
"Only by sacrifice do we earn the treasures of reward and peace."
Sesshomaru just kept his silence this time, making the Northern Lord mentally sigh in his seat. Though he was older by many years, the Western Lord's icy gaze was unsettling at times by how little he expressed himself. He was neutral. The Northern Lord wasn't fazed in the slightest, though. He continued on.
"I am glad you responded to our aid. We are in dire need of help."
"I came by will, not request. My lands are being threatened and that is why I shall aid you, no more."
"I am not surprised," Lord Takahiro sighed. "I would have done the same."
Hoshiko wanted nothing more than to give the Northern Lord a dark look but she did not. He was like Sesshomaru in that regard and so she accepted it grimly, though she would only truly accept things like that from the Western Lord. There was a small pause until the Northern Lord spoke up again.
"Not only have you come to defend your lands along with us, you have brought companions and with it, aid."
"Indeed," Sesshomaru growled. "They are not yours to command. They come by my orders."
"Of course, Lord Sesshomaru. They are yours to command by your own will and I will not argue about that; they come from the Western Land's and under your orders. Now, rise."
Hoshiko rose to her full height once again, hearing to her right her friends doing the same. She barely noticed that, however. For the first time, she saw the Northern Lord. Shining golden hair hung down to his strong shoulders perfectly framing his handsome face. Silver eyes gazed at them full of authority but held respectful warmth within their depths. Black markings were on his lightly tan cheeks. He wore armor much like the Inu No Taisho's except for the black cape and his kimono was gray with black swirls along the neckline and shoulders, with a golden obi. Lord Takahiro leaned forward in his chair to gaze at them.
"Who might you be," the Northern Lord addressed Minoru, who just raised an eyebrow.
"I would think you would recognize me, Takahiro," Minoru said lightly. "Or should I call you feather-butt?"
Lord Takahiro's eyes widened, making Hoshiko a bit worried. That had been so disrespectful! But the Northern Lord began to laugh to everyone's surprise.
"Minoru, my boy. It has been a long time I have seen you. I am glad to see you are well."
"It has been a long time," Minoru returned kindly.
"We will have to talk soon. I must ask though, how is your Mother?"
"She is well."
Takahiro sighed.
"I am glad to hear so, since the passing of your Father."
"Hai," Minoru muttered.
"Pass along my regards and inform her that my invitation to visit us remains strong."
"Of course, my lord."
Takahiro nodded, satisfied, as he moved on to Sakura. Hoshiko was growing more surprised. He was acknowledging them!
"And you are, demoness?"
"I am Sakura," the red haired beauty responded respectfully. "I am Lord Sesshomaru's servant, but I am a healer as well. I am a phoenix demoness for your information."
"A phoenix demoness," the Northern Lord said, a bit surprised. "I hear being in the presence of one brings great fortune."
"Hai," Sakura returned with a slight blush but smiling kindly.
"Well, I am pleased to meet you Sakura."
"The same, milord."
Minoru and Sakura grew a bit uneasy as the silver eyes of the Northern Lord moved to the lady. What would she say? Sesshomaru watched carefully. Hoshiko remained strong as she returned the sudden gaze on her.
"You are," Lord Takahiro asked kindly.
"I am Shi," the lady introduced herself kindly but respectfully. "I'm Lord Sesshomaru's servant, healer, and strongest warrior within his clan."
Lord Takahiro's eyes widened at the last title, which he quickly glanced at the Western Lord for confirmation. Lord Sesshomaru inclined his head once in agreement. No one knew how much he agreed with that last title she had given herself. The Northern Lord quickly returned his gaze to the hybrid demoness. He was startled a demoness had won that title and not a demon, but he was more surprised she had gotten that title by the fact she wasn't even dog demon. He could tell. He had to know.
"You will be a great help if Lord Sesshomaru has stationed you as his greatest warrior among his clan. I am honored to be in your presence. What type of demon are you?"
"I am a dragon demoness, milord."
Hoshiko had decided to go with the demon she looked like most. Lord Takahiro looked a bit surprised as his eyebrows rose up, but he said nothing about it.
"I will look forward to seeing your skills in battle, Shi," he said, placing his fingertips together. "As the greatest warrior, I can see you will be an exceptional and powerful ally to have on our side. I sense it about you now."
"Arigato, Lord Takahiro," she returned.
"I am greatly honored to meet you, Shi."
"It is more an honor to meet you, milord."
Lord Takahiro looked pleased by this. Lord Sesshomaru gazed at Hoshiko with unreadable eyes but he was deeply pleased by her respectful and proper manner. His Father had taught her well, apparently. He was even more pleased the Northern Lord had not suspected anything and thus, Hoshiko was safe from harm with her true identity hidden with a careful mask. He returned his gaze to the Northern Lord, who rose from his chair, clasping his hands together with a low clap. He looked at his allies kindly.
"Now, if you will follow me, we have many things to discuss," he said, suddenly grave. "The panther demons grow uneasier by the day and I expect an attack not far from now. We must prepare immediately for the counter attack and win this battle that hangs over our heads."
"Indeed," Minoru said. "Let us prepare for the upcoming battle."
Lord Sesshomaru and the others couldn't have agreed more as they followed the Northern Lord down a hallway. It was time for battle preparations, despite their arrival now. It couldn't wait.
"Shi," Sakura whispered softly.
The hybrid demoness looked at her servant out of the corner of her eye, glad she hadn't addressed her as Lady Hoshiko or Hoshiko. She had called her Shi. Excellent. She was posing as a servant and warrior, after all. Sakura returned her gaze carefully.
"Hai," she answered softly, to not gain the attention of the Lords.
"Why, Shi?"
The question could have been taken another way if another had heard, but Hoshiko understood.
"Protection," she mouthed before speaking. "What are you talking about, Sakura?"
"About being careful," Sakura responded carefully. "The panther demons and their slyness."
"Hai, we must be weary," Hoshiko said, knowing full well they were not talking about the Panther demons. "If we take one step out of line it would mean demise. The Panther demons are tricky and each step we take determines what will happen in the end."
"You are wise, Shi."
"Over time, you grow to be so."
Sakura was quiet for a moment before whispering into her ear, "What about your true title, Shi?"
"Do not call me by that title unless we are completely alone where the walls don't have ears," Hoshiko whispered lowly, so softly Sakura had barely heard.
"Alright," Sakura breathed.
Little did they know they were being listened to but some was not heard. Lord Takahiro glanced over his shoulder to gaze at the dragon and phoenix demoness speak about the Panther demons. He looked at Lord Sesshomaru.
"Shi seems knowledgeable about battle," he said to the Western lord, observingly.
"Indeed," Sesshomaru answered in his deep toned voice.
"She must be quite the warrior to be so wise but powerful in battle as said. I can sense a great power from her."
Sesshomaru said nothing, but Lord Takahiro could sense the silent agreement. He approached a dark wood door and slid it open, gesturing for the others to enter. They found themselves in a large room with fine paintings on the walls and in the middle, a huge table with a map upon its surface. Hoshiko found herself sitting on a soft cushion at the end of the table by Sakura while the two lords sat at the other end. Minoru sat between Takahiro and Sakura. An empty seat between her and Sesshomaru; she wished she could sit right by him but did not dare. Takahiro gestured to a place on the map.
"Now," he began. "How long have you been having troubles with the Panther tribe, Lord Sesshomaru?"
"A month," Sesshomaru stated neutrally.
"Odd," the Northern Lord sighed. "We have had trouble for over a few months now."
Sesshomaru thought about it for a moment, but instead gazed at the map that the Northern Lord was tapping with his sharp nail.
"Do you know what they desire," Sesshomaru suddenly stated.
"They wish to have great amounts of territory that was taken from them some time back during a war centuries ago and wish to have more rights. I will not surrender them. It seems that is what they are interested in so far."
"Didn't you have a peaceful treaty with the Panther demons," Minoru asked kindly.
"Indeed we did, but it is void now. They have not allowed us to negotiate something else with them but have declared what they wish or there will be war."
"Not even wealth of gold and precious stones?"
"Hai."
"May I ask what rights they think they deserve?"
"They think they should have more freedom," Lord Takahiro sighed. "I have ordered that no humans within my territory to be harmed but they have grown a fondness for human meat and like to drive humans off their property for food and shelter. I do not understand the rebellion. All of us lords have ordered no harming of humans unless they attack us first."
"Indeed," Sakura murmured, her eyes gazing at the map. "Bat demons also have a fondness for human meat and blood. We cannot deny them the right to feast, though on humans as we do not favor, but their heritage as bat demons don't case much surprise. We have to give them that right, but the Panther demons? I would think they would have more fondness for fish and other meat considering their heritage as… cats?"
A few small chuckles escaped a few of the tables' occupants.
"Hai, we have only allowed bat demons to prey on humans though we dislike it greatly," Lord Takahiro pondered, his face darkening. "A bat demon clan was taken out a few years ago by an unknown hanyou because of their slaughter of a human village. It was a bit surprising but we found no need to step in. I was a bit amused such a strong clan was killed by a half breed."
Hoshiko recalled when Kagome had told her about when they were adventuring to strengthen Inuyasha's sword they had battled a bat demon clan to kill the holder of a stone that had the power to break barriers. She realized that this must be the same story. Relief filled her when the lord mentioned them not stepping in; who knows what would have happened if so? She returned her gaze to the Lords before her.
"The strategy they use," Sesshomaru rumbled lowly to the Northern Lord.
"They have taken a fondness from attacking from the back of the palace and to the right wall," Lord Takahiro growled. "We have repaired it countless times by now. Our defenses are strong but our aid has grown lower by the day."
"I noticed you did not have many warriors about," Minoru spoke out, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "I recall many others last I was here."
"Right you are, Minoru. Before this trouble began Lord Osamu of the South called on me for aid. He has been having some trouble with two clans within his territory and no matter what he cannot stop the fighting between them that grows fiercer and troublesome each day. I sent him many of my warriors to help him subdue the two clans but they have remained strong. I am surprised the two clans can continue to battle when the Southern Lord is engaging his own forces against them."
"Which two clans?"
"The dragon clan and the sea serpent clan," sighed Lord Takahiro. "I fear for the worst for those two."
The Northern Lord missed the sharp glances thrown in Hoshiko's way. The Lady noticed it and quickly glanced away, refusing to make eye contact but Sakura could see the slight tremble of her lip. That piece of information troubled her. Sakura had to know. She turned back to the Lord of the North quickly.
"Milord?"
"Hai, Sakura?"
"Do you know why the dragons and sea serpents are battling?"
Lord Takahiro raised an eyebrow sharply, also missing the sharp inhale from the green haired beauty at the other end of the table. Sesshomaru watched his lover out of the corner of his eye. She was working her jaw but he could not see her eyes, hidden by her chin length bangs. What were her thoughts?
"Has Shi not told you?"
There was a small silence to the lord's question. The demoness called Shi turned to look at him gravely.
"I am not aware of the battle between them," Shi said carefully. "I come from another clan."
The Northern Lord had the impression she was lying to him, but he decided not to push it. The walls around her were strong from the moment she entered this palace, he could tell. Her reasons whatever they be must be very powerful. It was better perhaps not to know. He sighed, tapping his nail on the table. He could no reason not to tell them about this despite its low relativity toward this battle. Besides, it was an interesting story.
"Do none of you know this tale," he questioned.
"I was aware of the war between them," Sesshomaru answered darkly, his eyes narrowing. "I had no interest; it held no threat toward the Western Lands."
"The same for all of us," Minoru added, trying not to glance at Hoshiko who he knew had more information than she wanted to share, which would be revealed shortly.
"Well then," Lord Takahiro sighed. "I might as well tell you so you are all aware of the battle raging in the Southern Lands."
They all gazed at him, except the green haired beauty that had her gaze locked on a painting across from her. Sweat trickled down her neck. She wasn't too fond of this story; her parents had died because of this cursed war. The Northern Lord took a deep breath and began.
"It started over 15 centuries ago," Lord Takahiro said gravely. "There were two young princes; Hideki of the sea serpent clan and Nori of the dragon clan. They had been friends since a very young age. The relationship between them was very strong full of companionship, understanding, and kindness from countless hours of playing and speaking with one another. When they both came of age, they were named the lords of their clans as their Father's finally stepped down, each proud of their eldest son hoping the great friendship between them would keep the peace between them because their Fathers were equally great friends and allies. For a time, there was great peace and friendship between the two clans."
He took a breath.
"The seasons passed by quickly but with great compassion as the two friends worked together in harmony. Then, things changed. Nori found the lady of his dreams and were mated shortly afterward, falling deeply in love quickly. The Dragon Lord began to spend less time with his companion, troubling Hideki, but with his mate instead. He tried to keep the balance but it still did not dampen the feelings the Sea Serpent Lord was having with this sudden change. He didn't dare tell Nori about his inner conflict because he was fond of his friend and wished the best for him. However, this grew into a light depression of loneliness and jealously when he realized he did not have what Nori had. He tried to not let it get in the way of the partnership they had no matter the cost. Nori soon raised a family with his mate, having many hatchlings, but did his best to keep his friendship strong with his companion from a young age. Things grew peaceful again."
"That is, until the Festival of Peace came up. As custom from an early age, the great festival was taken place to celebrate peace, friendship, and love between the two clans. Hideki traveled to meet up with Nori in one of the lavish palaces along the borderline they shared and upon arrival, saw the most beautiful, graceful, and gentle lady he had ever seen. It was Nori's eldest daughter, Setsuko. He kept an eye on her throughout the planning of the Festival and it went by pleasantly but his feelings soon grew deeper. He had fallen in love with Setsuko, for her nature was enduring to him. Just upon the last day of the Festival, he asked the Dragon Lord for her hand in marriage. He promised he would ensure her protection, happiness, and needs were well met and she would be loved deeply every day. He also suggested by this marriage, the two clans would be united completely and they could become family. With all of this in mind, Nori happily agreed."
"But, Nori soon noticed his daughter grew unhappy as the wedding drew closer. She did not often smile anymore nor did she ever sing as she had before. He tried to speak to her about it but she refused to tell him what the matter was, telling him it would be a great honor to marry Lord Hideki and unite the two clans in true harmony. Whenever he passed by her room at night he could hear endless sobbing that was completely heartbroken. It troubled him greatly. Soon enough, he couldn't handle it anymore. He hurried to his daughter's bedroom late in the night but as he arrived, saw her slip out and hurry down the hall. He followed her. She entered one of the private gardens and upon his arrival, found his daughter Setsuko in the embrace of an unknown male he had never seen before. Their lips were teasing each other's and tears slipped down their cheeks. Setsuko suddenly noticed her Father's presence and panicked. She hurriedly explained her reason; she had fallen in love with Ai, the servant she had met in the garden, and couldn't bear to marry Lord Hideki. She expected her Father to be very angry but instead, he accepted it. Nori understood. He wanted his daughter to be happy and he knew them she would not be with his best friend. He called off the wedding and allowed his daughter to be with the male she loved, despite the horrified and angry complaints he got. He loved his daughter."
"However, Hideki was greatly upset by this action and pleaded with his friend. He couldn't bear to lose the beautiful dragon demoness to a mere servant especially since he loved her deeply. Nori would not relent, however. Setsuko was the Dragon Lord's only daughter and because of this, he wished for her great happiness no matter the cost. Soon, anger replaced the sorrow. He cast himself away from the Dragon clan for many years in silence. When he finally returned Nori noticed a difference about the sea serpent lord. Hideki was more tense and stubborn than before. They began to argue over little things, about agreements and laws between them. They even began to avoid each other because of the lies and small betrayals they exchanged. Tension grew between the two. Hideki eventually found a worthy mate but it was an arranged marriage so neither of them had great love for each other. However, the new Sea Serpent lady had a great disliking for the Dragon demons. So when the Dragon Lord and Lady came to negotiate over a small disagreement the sea serpent lady insulted Nori's wife and talked darkly about the dragon clan. This angered Nori greatly but Hideki did nothing about it. Higher tension grew and anger began to settle in. Contact between them grew dull as they began to avoid each other more often."
"A few years later Hideki was engaged in a battle against an unknown clan for more territory and to crush the rebellion because they had lived in harmony for a great time. He requested for the Dragon Lord to come to his aid, but Nori refused. He was hurt by all the hostility and heated words exchanged between them. Lord Hideki grew outraged at this and found himself questioning his relationship with the Dragon Lord. Nori had always been called better than he because he was skilled at more things. Nori had broken his heart by refusing to allow him to marry his daughter. Nori had insulted his mate, though he knew full well she had gone a great wrong. They had been arguing over laws, territory, and parties. Hatred grew in his heart."
"The final straw was when Nori requested for the return of control for some land that had been traded originally for another piece, each of value to one species of demon. Hideki snapped angrily because the land was a great hunting ground for his kind and a good home. Only a few hours after the request, a dragon city was attacked by the sea serpent's army and many were slaughtered on both sides. The Dragon Lord got the news shortly after the attack and he was horrified by this. The friendship between them ceased."
Lord Takahiro took a moment to breathe and think, rubbing his forehead. Everyone else was silent, eyes wide. Sesshomaru tapped his claw against the table but his expression was unreadable.
"The battle between them was not great at first. It was battles for territories and hostility grew between the dragons and sea serpents as loyalties were tested and friendships and great loves were destroyed. Barriers were cast between the two clans. Hatred began to bleed and sorrow bred in the most horrible of times. The lords continued to squabble over every little thing and their armies battered at each other frequently. Then, this story takes a great downfall that erupts pure fury between them. Hideki had two children shortly after the war began, who had both inherited their mother's great dislike for the dragon demons. Their names were Daiki and Demiyah."
"I know that name, Daiki," Sakura thought in horror. "Daiki is Hoshiko's Father!"
The Northern Lord caught the sharp glances Minrou and Sakura both cast at the dragon demoness, Shi. He wondered over it, confused. Yet, he didn't dare break away from this story. It was truly a great tale no matter the horror behind it.
"As they grew up, the sea serpent lady deepened their dislike into hatred for the dragon demons by telling them terrible things about their new enemy. Daiki and Demiyah grew quite hostile and cruel. They wanted nothing more to cast down the Dragon Lord and his kin. So when they came of age, Daiki entered the war by being stationed as a mere warrior into a small army. His sister remained behind to do more sly attacks with a small army under her own command. He took on an unknown identity to avoid any problems and dangers to avoid detection of who he truly was. Only his Father and Commander knew his true identity and locations. He proved to be very useful to them because of his great power and agility. Yet, on one cold night it changed forever," Lord Takahiro trailed off slowly. There was a small silence.
"What happened," Minoru breathed.
"He found an injured dragon demoness."
Eyes widened. Lord Takahiro continued.
"At first, he immediately drew his sword to slaughter her. But as he raised his sword above his head to plunge it into her heart, her eyes opened to stare at him with such a defeated look it made him pause. Her eyes were the deepest green like emeralds and sparkled with an inner fire despite her dying state, he could see it. Daiki tried to bring himself the sword down but he couldn't. He couldn't bring himself to kill her. Just her looking at him the whole while made it worse because she made no move to stop him or protect herself. So he made a very dangerous choice. He decided to aid her in secret until she grew well. So the son of the Sea Serpent Lord managed to get her into a hidden cave and tended to her wounds. Needless to say, the dragon demoness was surprised by this enemy's kindness toward her but accepted it. He took care of her and mended her weak spirit. During the few weeks she was there with him, they slowly became friends. She would not reveal her name, but insisted he called her "Emerald." Daiki began to learn many things from her and her from him. He learned half of the things his Mother had told him about the dragons were untrue but the rest was correct, but twisted to a low to high point. When the injured demoness was finally well enough, she wished to return to her companions. It darkened the mood between them. They had grown quite fond of each other despite the hatred between their kin. So they decided to meet in secret and avoid each other in battle, which they did."
"A season passed in this manner. As the battles and arguing continued, a forbidden friendship deepened. They grew to know each other more and learned much from the other. Finally, the demoness he called "Emerald" revealed her true name to the young prince. Her name was Kasumi, the great dragon general."
"Kasumi was Hoshiko's Mother," Sakura thought in shocked horror. This was Hoshiko's parents love story.
"This shocked Daiki to the core. What he had thought had been a mere dragon warrior had ended up to be the great general herself. Yet, this changed nothing between them and the friendship was stronger than ever. As Daiki and Kasumi continued to meet in secret, something happened that neither of them anticipated. They fell in love. The hatred they had had against each other's kin had vanished by this point by the goodness they had seen in the other. It frightened them a bit, but they followed their feelings and love was exchanged between the two. They accepted each other for each other, completely in love and sharing everything. Falling so hard for each other, they found themselves becoming mates in secret. They knew this love was completely forbidden but they didn't care, because they had each other. Then something again happened that neither of them were ready for and completely changed their fate. Kasumi got pregnant with Daiki's child."
"This frightened them both deeply. The child was going to be a hybrid that was completely forbidden. So Kasumi, knowing it had to be done, resigned from her status and retreated into the mountains where a very small but hidden palace resided. Her parents and friends were greatly confused by this action. Yet, she told them she was weary and done, which was not true. So she hid in the palace for the months of her pregnancy. Daiki would attempt to sneak to see her when he could slip away from his group but it was not often. He didn't dare resign from his station, however. Although this caused much tension, they were overjoyed to have a child together and vowed to protect their hatchling at any cost. A few months later, the great dragoness general gave birth to a little demoness."
Shi tensed at this piece of information. No one noticed.
"They were honestly thrilled to have a beautiful little demoness. Sadly though, it was hard to keep her hidden from the rest of the world without word getting out. Kasumi often found herself hidden endlessly in the palace with her daughter while Daiki tried to avoid fighting with his mate's kin as he traveled with his army group. Over time, one servant grew to despise the hybrid child each day. She was angry at her lady for having a child with the enemy. Her own parents had been slaughtered by the sea serpent clan and because of this; her anger was greatly fueled against the great dragon general and her hybrid child. She couldn't believe Lady Kasumi would do this against her own kin. She finally betrayed her lady by going to tell the Dragon Lord and his followers what she had done. They were outraged by this betrayal and sent warriors to slaughter the child and bring Kasumi back, dead or alive, no matter the cost. They had trusted her and she had betrayed them. However, when they reached the palace, it had already been heavily protected years prior and Daiki had managed to get there just before the attack but he was injured from an earlier battle. So, when they began to tear at the palace walls, Kasumi made a grave decision. She wanted her child to live. Kasumi forced Daiki to take their child and flee into the night to protect their daughter. They said their final goodbyes, knowing full well she would die. Despite it all and his great sorrow, the Sea Serpent Prince fled with his daughter while his mate stayed behind to fight the dragons off long enough for them to escape before she was killed. He loved her, but he respected her final wish."
Lord Takahiro sighed heavily.
"After the murder of the Great Dragon General, the dragons hunted for her mate and hybrid child but to no avail could they be found. It baffled them, but also enraged them. The Dragons could not believe the Lady Kasumi, the Great Dragon General, would betray her own kin. The Sea Serpents were equally disgusted and angry when they caught word of Lord Daiki's betrayal. So, the war ignited worse than it ever had before. It became a blood bath with endless pain and death littering the battlegrounds. The land began to become rumble but neither side cared, so angry at each other and the betrayal of two Legends they had respected greatly. So when Daiki escaped with his daughter, it began a challenge for both clans to slaughter them both and end the shame they brought by living. The hunt began for the two escaped "traitors." For several years, there was no evidence they were even alive and if so, where did they escape to? No matter their efforts, no reward came."
"Then 36 seasons later, three young Sea Serpents were swimming through a small river to engage in an attack against their enemy when they noticed two figures on the shore. Curious, one of them approached to see who it was. What he saw shocked him. It was Lord Daiki and his young hatchling, fishing for food. Immediately, they attacked. Lord Daiki was said to shout for his daughter to run while he held them off but he perished in the battle. Since, the two clans have been more at ease since the demise of the Legends but the battle still rages. One can wonder who will win or will they both perish?"
There was a small silence.
"You seem to know this story well," Minoru observed, breathless.
"I do," the Northern Lord answered gravely. "Daiki was my friend, so he told me much more than others know."
"You knew Lord Daiki?"
"Hai, I did. He was a fine demon who had a strong heart. I pity that he had to die the way he did, but what more honorable death than to defend a loved one?"
"Indeed," Minoru mumbled in agreement.
"How close were you and the Sea Serpent Lord," Sakura kindly asked.
"Close enough to be friends and allies," Takahiro replied. "I was fond of him; he had a sharp mind and an amusing wit when he was relaxed. I simply wish things did not go the way they did."
"Although, if I may ask, what would you happen to know about Kasumi's and Daiki's daughter? The hybrid?"
"One may question about her. After Daiki's demise, the child vanished no matter how hard the clans searched for her. Now, there are many rumors about how their child is dead or perhaps alive still but I question both sides. I have no idea what to think. The clans have been desiring to murder her since her existence was revealed and continue to do so if she lives today. What I hear, they think they can erase the memory of the Legends by bringing her down and ending the shame and embarrassment they face. Being the friend of Daiki, I cannot help but wonder if she still lives today. Most have forgotten the story of Daiki and Kasumi and merely remember the war's beginning."
"I see," Minoru breathed. "Now I would know why the Legends were not mentioned."
"It is the only way the clans believe they can erase the shame for now until she is dead if she lives. If she has already perished, they have gotten their wish."
"By personal opinion, do you think she is alive or dead?"
Lord Takahiro stared at the two servants with a grim but amused gleam in his eyes.
"You seem extremely curious about the war, especially Daiki and Kasumi."
"I apologize," they both said at the same time, looking down. They ignored the fact they had said the same thing.
"Not at all, I am merely curious to why you are so curious about the Dragons and Sea Serpents."
"It is merely an interesting tale," Sakura answered softly, but Lord Takahiro swore he heard her voice waver. Was she lying?
"I see," Lord Takahiro slowly said, rubbing his forehead a bit confused. "However, I cannot truly answer that question. The rumors twist around each other so one moment there is word she is alive but the next dead before the cycle repeats again. Not many care anymore though about the hybrid child of the two Legends or merely have forgotten. I cannot, for Lord Daiki was my friend. I would hope she was alive, but at the same time if she is dead she can finally rest in peace. I fear the worst for this whole war."
Sesshomaru had said nothing throughout the tale. Instead, he gazed at the opposite wall with his usual unreadable expression but from the Northern Lord could tell he could be thinking about this new information of the Dragon and Sea Serpent war. He glanced over at Minoru when the other eagle demon sighed heavily.
"I see. Arigato for this story, Lord Takahiro," Minoru said kindly.
"Of course. However, it is best we do not speak of it outside of here. If the daughter of Daiki and Kasumi still lives it is best if this part of the story remains secret. The lower the awareness of her existence the better off she might be living a better life in secret."
"You don't address their daughter by name," Sakura observed. Hoshiko wanted to hit her over the head. She might give her away with all her curiosity.
Lord Takahiro grew serious.
"Sakura, there are some things that must remain secret even when most is told. I don't wish to speak her name out of precaution but at the same time, the clans must know her name. So it wouldn't place her in any more danger if her name is spoken and spread about. So, her name was Hoshiko, I believe if Daiki told me correctly."
"A lovely name," Minoru said quietly. It was then he knew this story was tied to the lady at the other end of the table.
"Indeed. Daiki mentioned to me in a letter that she was named such because when she was placed into her mother's arms for the first time, a shooting star streaked across the night sky."
Sakura's eyebrows rose up.
"Anyway," Lord Takahiro said, waving a hand. "We must speak of this no more. We have an upcoming battle on our hands and we cannot dwindle any longer."
Hoshiko never had felt more relieved. She already had known all of this but still, it sickened her to listen to the tragic love story of her parents and the way she had led them to her demise. She engaged in the rest of the discussion, but ignored the looks Minoru and Sakura sent her way when Lord Takahiro wasn't paying attention or was in conversation with Lord Sesshomaru, who had begun to speak up again. She did not want them to pity her. She wasn't some damsel that deserved such things. Lord Takahiro was pleased by her knowledge of weapons and battle strategy so she was able to lose herself into the discussion. What everyone didn't know was Lord Sesshomaru's inner thoughts, despite his completely neutral mask.
"She is tied into that war by flesh and blood."
Whew, what a chapter!
It appears Lord Takahiro is quite the kind demon. Yet, he even knew Hoshiko's Father, Lord Daiki. Does this make him friend or foe? I wonder what would happen if he discovered "Shi's" true identity ;) Not only all of that, they learned the reason of the war between the two clans and the love story of Kasumi and Daiki. Sakura is especially curious or "nosy" in this one... So is Minoru! Anyway, I hope you guys all enjoyed this and I hope I kept Sesshomaru in character. Please review, please! Motivates me to write faster ;D