Chapter 6
Previously: Sesshomaru was in the middle of the second segment of his coming of age ceremony, the War, when three of Kagome's clansmen appeared.
Sesshomaru's snarl echoed across the western lands as he stalked toward his new prey, ignoring the oncoming wave of combatants for the robed figures in the stands. Green sparks shot out from underfoot with each step he took, his power so potent that the sand beneath his feet began to melt into plasma before hardening into glass.
His scarlet eyes, dripping with malice and the promise of incomprehensible agony, saw nothing but the cloaked hand resting on Kagome's shoulder. The hand soon to be removed - preferably by his claws.
His tunnel vision had little effect on his battle prowess as he efficiently cut his way through the wave of his opponents as though he were swatting flies, his gaze unwavering. Inside, his stomach was in knots and his heart beat incessantly. He had to get to Kagome; he had to protect her where he had failed before. His mind moved between furry and frustration as he struggled to reign in his emotions.
Sesshomaru's progression towards the box seating the lords was noted by few, their complete attention was instead held by the robed figures that had appeared unannounced. Their gender, build, and even face were all hidden or obscured. In a way, this only heightened their apprehension towards the clan. Not knowing the face of their enemy of so many years had only increased the paranoia and fear felt toward them; particularly when the clan held such power over them all. The clan had also employed some form of magic which prevented any of the stronger demonic senses from discerning anything, in fact, were it not for the visual confirmation they would not have sensed their presence.
The dragon clan had the strongest reaction, with each member of their delegation drawing their blades or flexing their claws; their pupils slitting and scales flashing across their faces. One of the Watchers who had been standing back turned to face them with an air of ease, unfazed by the snarling of the dragons.
The third Watcher also moved to address the rising tension aimed at them. The female lions, who had been simpering and pawing at their lord and heir only moments before, were all attention and had quickly moved into a defensive stance in front of the eastern lord and heir. Brandished in their hands were the jeweled necklaces, bracelets, and chains which had once adorned their bodies, the edges of said jewelry now being noticeably sharper. The effortlessness with which they moved and armed themselves spoke of their capability. The eastern lord and heir appeared quite comfortable with their force of deadly women between them and the imposters.
The falcons, though completely ignored by the Watchers, were more demure in their reception; bowing their heads slightly in acknowledgement. Had anyone cared to notice, they would have seen the Southern lord's eyes flash to Kagome in hesitation, his mate's body tense, and his children become uncharacteristically silent in the presence of the Watcher clan.
As calm as ever, the western lord let no sign of his unease or apprehension visibly manifest in his form. However, the Taisho was no fool, he knew that their presence was no coincidence, nor was it customary for members to attend events such as this. His every interaction with Kagome's clan informed him that no amount of caution would be enough; he certainly could not rush in.
"My master is quite displeased, Kagome." The Watcher holding her said chastising. "How could you fail to invite him to this most joyous gathering?"
Kagome, eyes still locked with Sesshomaru, took a calming breath before reaching up and removing the Watcher's arm from her person.
"I'm afraid I don't quite know what you mean, Kirai. I was under the impression the clan had cut all ties with me centuries ago." She turned to face him with a patronizing sneer on her face, "It was quite memorable after all."
The Watcher called Kirai laughed for a moment before fingering his hourglass and reaching to remove his hood. Piercing blue eyes emerged and seemed to be lit from within they glowed with such an eerie light. His face and jaw were well defined which, when paired with the mischievously cruel light in his eyes, gave him an incredibly rakish appearance. As he shook out his ashen gray hair the lords could not help but gape at how incredibly young he looked. This Watcher, Kirai, had long served as the messenger for the clan as recognized through his voice and through they had suspected, they now had confirmation that the Watchers are truly were a clan of immortals.
"Indeed," Kirai agreed in blissful recollection, "It was certainly spectacular."
The Watcher facing the lions recoiled sharply as if they had been slapped. However, they did not move from their post, seeming to think better of it.
"Kagome was barely alive when your clan so graciously returned her." The Taisho snarled, unable to refrain from speaking after seeing the expression on Kirai's face.
"Ahh, but we all know that she was in no real danger." Kirai said turning hard eyes on the Taisho, clearly displeased at having his conversation imposed upon.
"Kirai," Kagome said returning his attention to her, "What do you mean by coming here?"
"Don't worry my lady," Kirai sneered, "I did not come all this way to disrupt your pet's ceremony. We are only here to deliver a message and enjoy the festivities."
"So you are here to spy."
"You wound me, Kagome." Though his words were said in jest, his eyes retained their cruelty.
Kagome's eyes narrowed in displeasure, "What is the message you carry?"
"Our master wishes to inform you that he will be collecting his payment soon."
The Taisho saw Kagome's face pale and there was a spark of fear before she adopted a stony expression, one she had undoubtedly learned from his son. Speaking of which, Sesshomaru was practically upon them; panting heavily in an attempt to control his furry, his eyes filled with blood lust. Knowing that something had to be done before Sesshomaru killed someone, the Taisho turned to address the stadium.
"The third day has dawned," his powerful voice swept through the stands, "In honor of the many who have gathered today, we will begin the individual battles a day sooner. Let the challenges commence!"
The two days of individual battles were set aside for challengers while the remaining were reserved for his teachers to test his skills. All had expected the challengers to be vying for a chance to fight the western heir, yet this was not the case. The ambitious younger demons that had been planning on promoting themselves were cowed by Sesshomaru's magnificent display, refusing to subject themselves to the humiliation that was sure to come from their sound defeat. The more experienced demons in attendance recognized a lost cause when they saw it, none wishing to be the first challenger to be defeated; preferring to allow the great demon lords to make the first attempt on the western heir.
Unfortunately the cardinal lords were otherwise occupied by the three Watchers who had settled themselves in quite comfortably beside Kagome. None wished to be weakened in a fight with the western heir and become easy prey to the powerful clan. However, many words of challenge had been exchanged between the lords and they would be perceived as cowards should they fail to follow through. Unsurprisingly it was the northern heir who first entered battle.
As the northern heir, Nagi, leapt to the sand below he was met with cheers and encouragement from the crowd. After all, one had to be either incredibly strong or insane to fight a demon as powerful as Sesshomaru when he was so close to the edge.
Sesshomaru's father's voice had done much to dispel the pure hatred that had clouded his thoughts, allowing him to return his focus to the events at hand. However, this did not keep him from frequently glancing at Kagome and her clansmen surrounding her. They had not moved to attack or take her away and that would have to do for now. He would speak with her later on what the Watchers' messenger had meant by saying that their master would collect his payment soon. For now, though, he had to complete the War trial.
His anger, while less visible, remained just below the surface; churning in his gut and forcing him to clench his hands. In a way, he was far more dangerous this way; unlike his blinding rage from before, he was now able to channel it and enter a more focused, driven state of mind. It was for this reason that he expected his battle with the northern heir to be both brief and bloody.
Though many choose to believe that the northern lands are filled with barbarians who live and lust for battle, they are actually highly intelligent beings who have studied battle and different war arts that would aid in their survival from a young age. Naga's subordinates had trained beneath him for the majority of their lives and used a similar style of fighting. Therefore, having watched their failure the night before and analyzing each movement and mistake, he was confident he would not share the same fate. After all, nothing but total victory was acceptable for those of the North.
Rolling his shoulders, Naga stalked Sesshomaru; circling him and waiting for any sign of movement from his opponent. Yet, despite the jeering of the crowd and the intense tension being projected from Naga, Sesshomaru remained unfazed and unmoving. Naga was gradually growing impatient, something he knew he needed to temper, impatience had led to the death of many great demons and he would not be so foolish. Remaining at a distance, Naga unleashed a great torrent of flame burning so hot that its color was a mixture of white and blue. Sesshomaru did not move, instead choosing merely to flick his hand so that his whip created a wind tunnel, successfully diverting the roaring flame elsewhere. Sesshomaru's eyes slowly slid to Naga's and he raised a patronizing eyebrow as if to say, 'Is that all?'
Any plan of Naga's to remain patient was quickly forgotten, his pride having been wounded. Knowing that his next actions would be foolish, his blood wouldn't permit him to do anything but mount an all-out attack. His quickly drawn sword met nothing but air, Sesshomaru having quickly avoided the lunge. Sesshomaru was momentarily surprised at Naga's choice of weapon, the epee being one of the more delicate swords which required less brute force and more eloquence; a curious choice considering that epees are purely lunging swords. However, this was quickly forgotten when Naga followed up his previous attack with a series of similar lunges.
'He's fast!' Sesshomaru couldn't help but admire. This must have been how he outwitted his fellow dragons, were they not prepared for such an onslaught they would be vanquished with naught but a flick of Naga's wrist. Sesshomaru couldn't imagine where he had learned such swordsmanship as it was unlikely that he learned the art in the North, perhaps there was more to the proud condescending dragon than he had first thought.
When Sesshomaru felt a biting pain in his right leg, he leapt back to create a defensible space between them. His eyes flashed to his thigh where his blood had begun to seep into his hakamas. He had been distracted by his musings and surprise at the northern heir's elegant choice of weapon. For a moment, Sesshomaru's hand twitched to draw his sword but did not, such an honor was reserved for only the most honorable of opponents.
His leg had already begun to stitch itself back together when he began to advance on Naga who looked momentarily perplexed before narrowing his eyes in challenge.
A muffled guffaw from the northern lord drew the attention of those in the box holding the cardinal lords; their expressions a mixture of shock and confusion. Seeing that her mate would not deign to explain his amusement, the northern lady turned to address the others.
"My mate is amused at Naga's discomfort. It seems our heir failed to remember the West's immunity to poison."
"I see." The Southern lady nodded in understanding, "I was curious why he would use a weapon that could do so little harm to a demon, our regenerative abilities are far superior to that of humans."
"Naga regularly coats his epee with various poisons, never the same combination, so that all he requires is to break the skin of his opponent to obtain victory." The northern lady continued.
"Do you not think that revealing this information could be detrimental to his future success?" The western lady inquired. "Though there is not love shared between you and your heir, he is to be the leader of your people; their protector."
"Though it pains me to say such, Naga is certainly not reliant on that one trick. He is by far the most intelligent of our kind, surpassing all of our elders and even myself. He is a very confusing being, one who has endured a great deal." The northern lord said contemplatively, "However, I detest the way he has chosen to use such intelligence. His quest for power has corrupted him and I fear for the future of our clan."
All were silent in the wake of such a speech. None had thought the northern lands considered more than their next fight, let alone the survival of their clan. They were particularly astonished that the northern lord could look past the murder of his son to see the better sides of Naga, the parts of him that would bring about great change to the North should he apply his intelligence in a more constructive manner.
Seeing that his poison was, in fact, ineffective against the great dog, Naga discarded his epee; realizing the uselessness of such a weapon against a strong opponent. Quickly, Naga surveyed Sesshomaru, measuring his physical capabilities while matched with the exquisite mind that he possessed and realized that despite his extensive experience, the fight could go either way. Strong Sesshomaru may be, but he lack in practical application. The West had not had a major conflict or war since the Taisho had taken over a few millennia ago. Though Sesshomaru had fought in some smaller skirmishes and surveyed the West with his father, he had never been forced to fight for his survival against an opponent more powerful than himself. He had never been a starved child forced to kill upon command. He had never been subjected to the immoral desires of those more powerful than himself. He had never had each of his scales torn from his hide to be sold on the black market. He had never held a loved one as they tried to breath past the blood filling their lungs. He did not know the winters of the North or the feeling of being so cold that you cannot move or even have a lucid thought. He did not know the feeling of being judged for crimes he did not commit or having mothers usher their children inside when he walked down a street. He did not know. But Naga did. Oh, did he know. Naga was a survivor though and when his savior came, he didn't hesitate to grasp the hand offered.
Therefore when Sesshomaru surged toward him, his anger driving him to be faster, stronger, and more cunning, Naga fought back with all he had. Their movements blurred as each threw out attacks just as often as they were forced to defend. Their bodies were their weapons as they dodged kicks and punches or leapt to great heights to avoid flames and acid. Blood was spilled frequently as each made contact with the other, ensuring that each strike counted.
Sesshomaru felt his muscles straining for the first time since the commencement of the War and took great pleasure in the challenge Naga presented. Though he had no way of knowing, this sentiment was surprisingly shared by Naga who had not enjoyed battle since his days as a hatchling. Naga appreciated the honor and skill with which Sesshomaru deployed his attacks and Sesshomaru couldn't suppress his amusement at the many tricks Naga would use. Sesshomaru had not known that a dragon's scales could have a delayed explosion if they were removed or that, being a green dragon, Naga had the ability to bend nature to his will causing all sorts of vegetation to impede Sesshomaru's attacks. Pit falls filled with spikes appearing out of nowhere were the least of his problems when facing Naga, for in addition to his intelligence, Naga proved to be excellent in combat.
However, as much as he enjoyed the battle, he could not let it drag on much longer. Sesshomaru, borrowing a few ideas from Naga, feigned using his acid whip while discreetly excreting a poisonous mist that was heavy enough to remain low and unseen before rising. He further distracted Naga by allowing him the upper hand.
Naga was no fool and had realized that Sesshomaru was being deceptive in his fighting due to his attack lacking the usual forceful honesty characteristic of him and therefore adapted his style accordingly. The first thing he noticed was the smell, a sickly sweet fragrance foreign to the blood stained sand they were fighting in. Immediately he forced the ground around them to collapse which drained the poison into the pits surrounding them. Counting on this, Sesshomaru used his moment of distraction to slash Naga with his claws. A simple maneuver in comparison with the elaborate traps they had been using up till then, but effective none the less. Naga instantly retreated and forced his strength into speeding up the healing process, aware that Sesshomaru's claws were tainted with poison. What he did not know was that Sesshomaru had not used a poison per say, but rather an infection which mutates to mimic white blood cells upon contact. Thus the acceleration of healing only served to ensure Naga's defeat.
When he lost feeling in his feet, Naga instantly realized his mistake. The immobility of his limbs was slowly climbing so that he was in a state of paralysis. Instantly he recalled other times when he was similarly powerless and was filled with a desperate fear for survival, completely forgetting that Sesshomaru was not allowed to do any lasting harm to his opponent. Blindly he lashed out catching Sesshomaru, who had thought the match decided, off guard. A deep gash down his side poured blood, staining his white kimono crimson. Sesshomaru was quick to knock out the paralyzed Naga before he could do more damage to either Sesshomaru or himself.
The medic team was quick to retrieve Naga who was fast regaining consciousness. Sesshomaru quickly looked to the box where Kagome was seated to ensure that she was safe and was put out to find that she was not watching him with her usual proud smile, but was instead eyeing the prone body of the northern heir with concern as he was carried out. It was also difficult to ignore the knowing smile upon Kirai's face as he too observed Naga.
Realizing that his questions would remain unanswered for the moment, Sesshomaru focused on repairing his body for the next competitor. Though he had won in the end, Naga was by no means an easy foe to defeat.
When the Taisho called for the next opponent and none answered immediately, Kagome took it upon herself to inquire as to when the eastern lord would enter the competition, having bragged a great deal that his prowess as a hunter was the only characteristic of his greater than his skill as a lover.
"My dear Kagome," the eastern lord replied glibly, "It would be remiss of me to impose myself before others had the opportunity. After all, I do believe that the strength of the opponents is meant to increase overtime making all the more reasonable that I challenge the young pup later."
There was a low hiss from those of the northern delegation in response to the slight against their heir, as much as they disliked Naga; he was their clansmen and representative in the individual fights.
"How disappointing it must be for you that young Sesshomaru did not sustain more injuries against the northern heir." Kirai commented blithely, "I suppose your strategy is to wait it out in hopes that there is no time for your battle? I was told he killed a lion on his hunt, should you not have answered his challenge sooner? How weak the lion clan has become to fear an inu pup."
"I fear no one!" The eastern lord roared back while moving to enter the arena. Kirai's mouth curled up in amusement at how easily the large cat could be goaded into a fight. Unfortunately for him, one of the human lord's guards had already hit the sand before the lord could take more than three steps.
Kagome leaned forward in anticipation for the fight; sure that Sesshomaru would appreciate the woman's strength. Noticing her increased attention, Kirai looked more closely at the young woman who had risen to the challenge, not having recalled ever meeting her before. Her hair was pulled back high on her head and she had a look of determination as she strode confidently toward Sesshomaru. In her hand was a great boomerang constructed from the bones of demons and Kirai couldn't help but appreciate how her tight suit clung to her as she crouched in anticipation.
Seeing the lusty smile upon Kirai's face while looking at her friend, Kagome elbowed him in the gut. Catching his breath, Kirai glared into the blue eyes of the woman beside him whose brow was lifted in defiance. Glancing between her and the slayer facing off against Sesshomaru a knowing light filled his eyes.
"Another one of yours?" he asked coyly, "Just how many are there?"
"That is between me and your master."
"Of course, just curious is all."
"Well don't touch her." Kagome bit back, "They're all off limits."
"Yea, yea. I know." He placated with his hands raised, "Doesn't mean I can't look though."
"As long as that's all you're doing."
From behind them, Kagome could hear one of the Watchers shifting uncomfortably in their seat as if they wished to speak. Half turning to look, she halted when she saw Kirai throw a threatening glare at them, warning them that he was to be the only one who would speak and the only one whose appearance would be revealed. Vowing to herself she would look into it, Kagome returned her attention to the field.
Though Sango fought valiantly, there was little she could do against such overwhelming strength; particularly when her skill lay in attacks from a distance which could easily be avoided with Sesshomaru's speed. Though there was a clear difference in strength, many admired the human woman for braving the fight against him alone where few others would.
Immediately following her defeat, another human stepped forward. Miroku, a representative of the holy population, had a much greater chance of defeating Sesshomaru due to his ability to purify demons. Unfortunately, having been exposed to Kagome, who also carried such power, led to Sesshomaru building up a form of immunity to holy powers. Though such a thing was nearly unheard of, it took an incredibly powerful riki to damage him after having endured many pokes of holy power from Kagome when he was misbehaving as a pup.
To Miroku's credit, he did not panic when he came to this realization and instead switched tactics in a more extreme direction. Undoing the beads from around his hand, he released a great wind tunnel towards Sesshomaru. This was of great interest to the gathered Watchers who each sat a little straighter and Kirai observed the whole thing in morbid curiosity.
Miroku was too afraid to turn around to face Kagome, having felt her glare raise the hairs on his neck. A trickle of sweat slid down his back. Kagome had been watching over his family for generations and was very aware of the dangers that accompanied using the wind tunnel. If this didn't kill him, she certainly would.
Though Sesshomaru was taken off guard by the strange attack, he lowered himself to the ground so that the wind would not be so strong before releasing a poisonous mist for the second time that day.
Miroku saw the incoming greenish mist and quickly covered his hand again. Deciding that his last resort was in direct combat, Miroku resigned himself to failure before charging forward and being quickly subdued.
Though it was quite long, Sesshomaru was beginning to realize how helpful a trial like the War could be. It provided him the opportunity to face off against various fighting styles he might not have had the chance to otherwise. He had certainly never encountered someone who fought with demon bones or turned their hand into some sort of vortex before.
Seizing his chance, the eastern lord quickly rose to fight Sesshomaru. Kirai smiled wildly when he saw the lord hesitate and turn to look longingly at one of the women he had brought along. However he was not in a position where he could allow someone else to fight for him. Not that it was surprising that he should look to one of his women for aid. The lions have long been attracted to strong, beautiful, and capable women. After all, it was no mystery that it is the women who truly do all the work in a lion pack while the men lounge about in leisure. Fortunately for them, the disparity in population size between men and women among their species allowed for such a lifestyle.
Seeing his next opponent, Sesshomaru's face twisted into a sinister smile; his mind already playing out the many ways he would skin the cat before him. Unfortunately for Sesshomaru, while the male cats may not be the strongest, they are certainly cunning.
Eager to sink his claws into the disgusting creature before him, Sesshomaru shot forward. Nimble as ever, the Eastern lord narrowly dodged his attack while muttering just low enough so that only Sesshomaru would hear, "Her distressed face is arousing, don't you think, Sesshomaru?"
Caught off guard by the impromptu conversation, Sesshomaru couldn't help by glance at Kagome knowing to whom the lord was referring. Seeing her concerned expression, he turned back to his prey with a snarl. The eastern lord stood smugly at a distance.
The next time Sesshomaru attacked, he took great care to actually make contact with the slippery fur ball, grabbing him by his hair and smashing his face into the ground. The eastern lord flipped over so that his booted foot connected with Sesshomaru's head before once again creating a distance between them.
"Though," the eastern lord continued his strain of thought from earlier, "her face while in raptures of ecstasy really has no match."
The eastern lord knew that he was succeeding when he saw scarlet creep into Sesshomaru's eyes. He was aware that he would never defeat the western heir while he was sane, but if he was driven mad to the point of recklessness…
"Of course, there are many pleasures one can find with so fine a woman. Her eyes are so expressive and the moans she makes when I have my way with her are truly undoing. I'm sure you can only imagine such things, she is, after all, quite selective in her choice of partners." The lord continued, knowing that Sesshomaru was only moments away from snapping. "The taste of her skin is intoxicating, second only to her many other flavors known when there is greater intimacy involved."
Clenching his fists, Sesshomaru fought down his rage. He knew that Kagome would never deign to have relations with such a creature. As he himself had said, she had always been selective. Though he had never caught her with any men, he was sure that she had been intimate with someone before. Despite having been trying to calm himself with reasonable thinking, he was only angering himself further while contemplating the possible lovers Kagome had in the past. He himself couldn't help but recall how sweet her lips were and how soft her skin had been as he kissed along her neck that morning that seemed ages ago. The fact that the mangy cat was even suggesting that he had similar experiences with her was enough to make him furious. Sesshomaru had almost succeeded in tuning out the Eastern lord's ramblings until he said something Sesshomaru could not ignore.
"Her skin is particularly lovely when covered with my marks. Evidence of our pleasure. Evidence of our passion. Evidence of my possession."
Sesshomaru had heard enough. He knew from experience that the only marks which remained on Kagome's skin were those inflicted by her clan, but even the mention of her belonging to someone other than him was insufferable. She belonged to him just has he belonged to her. They were a unit, a pack, and had been ever since he had first laid eyes on her.
It was those words that decided the cat's fate. Though he could not kill him at the moment, not even seriously maim him, the eastern lord was a dead cat walking.
So caught up in his own daydreams of himself with Kagome, the eastern lord barely registered the ominous presence looming behind him until he felt the raking of claws down his back. Accompanying the pain from the gash was an unfamiliar burning sensation which he soon realized was the result of Sesshomaru's acid eating away the flesh on his back.
Somewhat surprised that he could still move and that he had all his usual body functions, he moved to a more defendable position. The slightly hate glazed eyes of the predator stalking him alerted him that he may have used up all his nine lives. The reassuring look Sesshomaru was giving him promised that he wouldn't kill him. No, he wouldn't do that now. That look told him that Sesshomaru would ensure that he endured as much pain as he could imagine before finally allowing him to leave, only to be killed at a later date.
Sesshomaru had to be careful though, should he immobilize the eastern lord, the match would be ended. By tearing him apart piece by piece he could continue to play with his prey longer; the eastern lord being unable to drop out due to the shame it would bring upon his clan and the weakness that would be perceived. Though it may have looked like Sesshomaru was above such brutality, the eastern lord was under no such illusion. Dogs are curious creatures by nature, and the one before him had just developed an interest in his suffering. It would be some time before the great beast would be satisfied.
A small cruel smile was the only warning given before Sesshomaru indulged himself in shredding the eastern lord. He began by making the smallest cuts and allowing his most painful poisons to enter in small portions so to prolong the lord's agony. He then moved onto inflicting more permanent damage. Sesshomaru was sure that the scars that warped the once charmingly handsome face wouldn't be considered a hindrance to his future duties; they were purely cosmetic after all.
When Sesshomaru finally withdrew from his attack all that remained of the eastern lord was a moaning mass of torn flesh. Of course, in following the rules of the trial, Sesshomaru had made sure that there were no serious injuries that couldn't be healed in a matter of hours. However, the scaring to his face would remain, he had made sure to burn his message so deeply that no others would be taken advantage of by the scoundrel.
Almost fearfully, Sesshomaru turned to meet the gaze of Kagome and was not surprised to see the disappointment plainly visible there. Though he had felt justified in his dealings, Kagome was too kind a creature to ever wish harm upon someone. She was too self-sacrificing for her own good. And though he wished to explain his actions and reasoning, he would never subject her to hearing what the lowlife had said about her. She did not deserve such an insult.
He didn't even need to look at the other lords or his mother, knowing that they would be wearing similar expressions on their faces. The crowd was abuzz with their own thoughts on what they had just witnessed. Mothers were aghast at such a display and angered that their children had seen some of it before they had been forced to leave. The men, however, were more positive about the fight, reassured that their lands would be well protected if such a ruthless lord was to lead them. All had seen him grow from a young imaginative boy into the man standing before them today and they knew that he took great pride in the care of the West. He would never betray his people and would never take any action that would harm them in anyway. Thus they were comforted that he was willing to go to such lengths in their defense. Though they had not heard what was spoken, they were aware that their young heir was a man of reason and would not have taken such action had it not been warranted.
Unsurprisingly, the only face that truly expressed unaltered glee at the display was Kirai, whose face was twisted into a sadistic expression of delight; his eyes glazed and his tongue darting out to wet his lips.
"I suppose it is high time I entered the arena." The southern lord said as he rose from his seat. The second night was well underway and before long, it would be time for the masters to begin their examinations.
"Be mindful of him," The Taisho cautioned, "I do not want a vegetable for a son."
"Your concern is unwarranted, Taisho." The southern lord reassured, "Your son is strong of both mind and body."
The Taisho grunted in agreement and allowed the lord to pass. However, before proceeding into the arena, the southern lord bowed slightly to Kagome which gave Kirai no little amusement.
"I cannot believe that they do that to you." he commented while laughing. "They have no idea, do they? What do you think would happen if I were to tell them what you did?"
"They are a respectable clan Kirai," Kagome replied evenly, "I do not believe they would change their treatment of me in anyway. Their deference towards the rest of the clan however…" she trailed off allowing him to imagine for himself. "You forget their position in the treaty Kirai. They are loyalists."
"That depends on what side they decide to believe in, Kagome. And I don't doubt our master's capability."
"He is," Kagome agreed, "a most persuasive man."
Sesshomaru, in the meantime, was preparing himself to fight the head of the falcon clan. His father had warned him previously that their method of fighting was unconventional. They were more physiological in their attacks than physical. Thus, it was no surprise when the lord decided to strike up a conversation rather than mount a direct attack.
"You are aware that each species of demon has their own unique abilities, are you not?" He began, "The inu are immune to poison, the kitsune can change shape, the dragons can breathe fire and manipulate the elements, the lion have the power of compulsion, the wolves have a degree of telepathic abilities due to their pack instinct, etc."
Sesshomaru nodded his head in confirmation.
"Well we falcons have a rather unique, lesser known ability." He paused, "You see, falcons have particularly good eyesight. So good, in fact, that we can see events that have already passed, those currently happening, and others yet to come."
In shock, Sesshomaru took a step back. Though many would be tempted to obtain such a gift for themselves, Sesshomaru knew well the risks that would accompany its possession. Such an ability was dangerous in the right hands, but in the wrong hands…
Sesshomaru paused, recalling the humble manner with which the southern lord and his family had towards Kagome and her clan. The realization was horrifying. That clan of immortals also had the gift of foresight was unimaginable. It would be child's play for them to change the course of history, to bend fate to their own desires, to play God.
If the southern lord noticed Sesshomaru's horror, he said nothing of it. Instead, he continued where he left off.
"I will not fight you hand to hand today, Sesshomaru." The lord said while relaxing into a more comfortable stance. "Instead I would like to show you something. I would like to share some of this knowledge with you. How you chose to use it, I care not. I only desire that you go forth with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions."
Slowly, Sesshomaru nodded once more.
"Very good," the southern lord said with a clap of his hands, as though Sesshomaru's acceptance had taken a great deal of stress of his shoulders. "Now don't panic too much, but I'm about to invade your mind and burn the images into your memory."
"What?" Sesshomaru exclaimed in shock.
"Don't fret; there's only an eighty seven percent chance that I will melt your brain."
Sesshomaru opened his mouth to say that he had changed his mind, that he didn't need to know what ever the old bird wanted him to, but it was already too late. Sesshomaru experienced a disorienting moment of darkness where he fought to remain standing unsure where the ground had gone or where he was until a blinding white light flashed across his vision. Blinking his sensitive eyes so that the red and black dots would recede, he was finally able to take stock of where he was.
The first thing he noticed was that the earth beneath his feet had been scorched black, the landscape sharp and jagged with great craters scaring the land. Above him the clouded sky loomed sinisterly, the only light coming from brief flashes of lightning. Even the air was thin, making it difficult to breathe evenly. Wherever he was, Sesshomaru decided, was a barren wasteland not fit for life to exist.
Unsure how to proceed and slightly confused about what the southern lord had meant by showing him this, he grew annoyed that his time was being wasted thus. That is, until he saw them – demons as tall as mountains and radiating such incredible amounts of power. There was no way such creatures could be real. Then the extraordinary happened, the great demon, who had seemed so powerful before, collapsed as one human impaled it with what looked to be a spear poorly made with a tree branch and a sharpened rock. The human was practically dripping with holy energy and Sesshomaru felt his heart race in panic at such a display; fearful for his own life. It was not long until another demon, equally as large as the last, appeared; intent upon killing the human. All sense of time slipped away as Sesshomaru watched for what seemed like days but could have been only hours as demon after demon and human after human were slain. It was horrific and the battles humbling in their intensity, making Sesshomaru's strength seem paltry in comparison. The dead continued to increase and neither side showed any inclination of stopping. It was a truly grim scene of death.
Sesshomaru fell to his knees, unable to look away from the pointless slaughter taking place before him and breathed out in question, "What is this place?"
Hello all! If you were curious as to where I have been or why I did not update for a while, it was because I was finishing up my exams and final term papers (over fifty pages worth of essays). Admittedly, I did finish school two weeks ago. However, I immediately had to moving to Canada for the summer which took longer than I had anticipated. In conclusion… I'll be updating more regularly from now on (if not each week than at least every other). Thanks for sticking with the story and please let me know what you think!