He could feel the raw power before the individual entered the office. Sesshomaru looked up from his desk wondering if it was deemed necessary enough to check out. Then he heard the elevators door ding and suddenly the air crackled with reiki. His nostrils flared scenting the air. By the time he got to his door he caught sight of Kagome in a heated conversation barreling across the office to his father's door. Sesshomaru was momentarily thrown because he wasn't expecting her in the office for another week at least.

"YES, I will not say this again. If you do not transfer me this instant, I will have no other option than to report you to the Japanese counsel. Not to mention you will find yourself and your boss on the other end of yet another legal battle you would soon regret and loose. I will not back down on this, mark my words."

The reiki sent goose bumps across his skin. Bringing with it memories of kisses, caresses and sweet nothing murmurings from times long passed. But instead of a genital lull, it was electrified with anger. It sizzled and burned all in its wake. If it blazed any stronger there would surely be scorch mark on the floor. He could practically task the charged energy on his tongue. Each stride she took was with purpose, uncaring of who was around. In this moment she demanded attention and she had his along with those in the office. Though his was not the one she sought, she had it none the less as she always would.

With keen hearing Sesshoamru picked up on the tidbits of conversation. He wandered who in fact provoked her wrath. He hasn't seen this level of anger since they were but kids. Which was usually directed towards the Welp. Eyes following her, he noted his father met her at the door and guided her in before they both erected a barrier around his office. Moments later InuYasha rushed in moving to Kagome before the blinds was closed. His eyes narrowed in thought. Before looking out seeing others still gapping at the office door.

"Back to work." Sesshomaru sneered before retreating back to his own.

Closing his door and releasing a sigh he knew he was in trouble, there was no lying to himself now. He was like a moth drawn to a flame and she consumed him. He truly did not relish the coming week when she would finally have a place back in his life again, a small part but there non the less. It made him wonder if he would be able to hold back the treacherous feeling and actions that she brought out in him. Sesshomaru always prided himself on his ability of control; yet it was always lacking when concerning her. Shaking his head and turning back to work he reminded himself of the fact she was moving on and that was a path laid by his own hands; which he would have to be ok with it.

— —

"As I've said Miss Higurashi our ruling still stands. The European council still find the home unsuitable for the child. We understand the lengths you and your witnesses have went too but as of yet we do not see our opinions changing."

"This is a loving home for the child. One that wants it and will love it unconditionally. You are denying this child the love and support of not only a family but a pack." The remark was met with silence. But not out of surprise of the outburst but more of indifference and or uncaring to respond.

Togas clears his throat. "If I may interject councilmen, we are supposed to receive a report on your findings on why the motion was denied. We have yet to receive one."

"Nothing has changed since the last appeal but there must have been a delay. I will have it faxed now."

"Thank you, it is protocol after all. But I do speak on miss Higurashi's behalf when I say this is not over. We are working with the Japanese counsel on this matter now. We will not be backing down, expect to hear from us by tomorrow."

"Hmm, very well. We are within our rights of our decision. Things may be different there but not here Lord Tashio. Good day."

Kagome sat back and huffed. "I know exactly what it's going to say and what it's not. They are just too scared to put in print what the real issue is..."

"Keh. There a bunch of idiots. What do they know anyway."

"I don't know InuYasha. I understand the general reasoning but it doesn't really apply here. And they are just gambling with this child's life like it's nothing."

Toga stopped in front of Kagome. "Kagome it's going to be alright. Soten is a strong girl, she knows we are all doing our best."

"She's just been through so much. Losing her parents and then now both of brothers. She's all alone now."

"But she's not, she has us; she has you advocating for her." Toga glanced at InuYasha, then at the clock. "Pup? Sesshomaru was set to have a meeting with Councilman Haru today around lunch I believe."

"I don't keep track of his calendar, that's Sakura's job." Togas lifted a brow at his youngest antics "What?"

"Go and see if he's here. If so, bring him here right away." Toga walked to his desk bending over to write a quick note then glanced at Kagome. "You are still wanting this to be kept private I assume?"

"Yeah, my problems are not his problems."

"Very well." He continued to jot down a few quick details

"K'Gome…" InuYasha approached her hesitantly, she could see the indecision swirling in his eyes. "I think- well maybe it wouldn't hurt to pull the bastard in? He is an acting lord, he pulls weight."

Kagome almost barked out a laugh before swiping an errant tear away. "Unlikely, it's not like it has passed my notice he's backing his mother's agenda that's floating around. I'm not stupid, not anymore." Kagome looked down at her hands. She could feel their eyes on her. "What I need to do is focus on gathering the councils support for a transfer. I knew the European division would reject this placement request. Just like they rejected my appeal a few months ago."

"InuYasha, here take this". Snatching the note from his father, InuYasha barreled out the door straight to Sesshomarus secretary.

"Sakura, has Councilman Haru arrived yet?"

The river sprite didn't even look up from her computer. "Well, hello to you to InuYasha."

He narrowed his eyes and ears swiveled in irritation. "Hello Sakura. I hope you're having a good day"

"Now that's more like it. Yes, he's in with Sessh- Hey! You can't just run in there."

InuYasha could care less, he barged right in.

— —

Sesshomaru heard a faint knock at the door. Amber eyes flicked over to the clock noting it was time for his next appointment for the day. Rising from his chair, he smoothed down his vest before pulling on his suit jacket. He straightened his tie as he made his way to greet his guest.

"You my enter."

Sakura guested for Councilman Haru to enter before turning to bow to Sesshomaru. "Lord Sesshomaru, your guest has arrived."

"Thank you, Sakura; Councilmen." Sesshomaru made a gesture for the councilmen to advance further into the office and take a seat.

"Lord Sesshomaru." Haru slightly bowed his head in greeting and made his way to the offered chair in front of his desk.

"May I be of any further assistance my Lord?"

Standing tall he turned towards Haru. "Would you like a cup of tea?"

"No thank you my dear." The Councilman returned to Sakura with an easy smile.

Sesshomaru made his way back to his desk and spoke over his shoulder, "That will be all Sakura." The water sprite bowed and exited.

"You look well Haru. I suspect you received the numbers from the Gala?"

"Hm yes, you as well. I just read the report of the earnings this morning. It was rather successful, with beating the numbers from last year. I noted there was proposed ideas for the allocation of the funds but, there will be a set-in stone plan within the week on how the funds will be used am I correct?" the Councilman stated this as more of a demand and not a question. Sesshomaru watched the man unbuttoned his jacket to settle back into the chair and cross his legs. His hands laced in his lap, gaze unwavering waiting for Sesshomaru's response. He met his gaze head on.

"Hn, yes of course. When those are finalized, Sakura will send over the documents pertaining the details. The charity function did generate a sizable amount but plans are being made with the other lords for similar events in their districts. We hope to have equal success if not more. For now, there are talks of possibly a carnival mid-summer and a festival heading into fall. It will be discussed further at the next summit meeting."

"Good good, you have our full support. I know a few other members have some suggestions as well. Not to mention things need to be discussed with the transfer of seat to Haruki. Like yours his house as always done an annual event, the art show and auction, so that would be a given for this year as well. We are all looking forward to discussing these matters but, might I ask why you requested I meet you today? I find it hard to believe it would be for matter that I would be hearing at the upcoming meeting."

"Yes, there is a matter-" The door to his office swung open cutting him off.

"Councilman Haru! I have a message from father."

"Yes, what is it?" Haru's face pinched in confusion as the abruptness. Sesshomaru's eyes flicked to his brother then to the note in his hand.

"Here." Haru took the proffered note and began to read. InuYasha glanced up feeling Sesshomaru's gaze on him. The Councilman cleared his throat bring attention back to him.

Swiftly standing he paused and addressed Sesshomaru. "Something has come up, is what you needed important or can it wait?"

Sesshomaru glanced down at the papers in front of him before pushing it aside. "No, it may wait."

"Good, we can reschedule if needed."

"That will not be necessary."

"Very well, if you will excuse me."

With unblinking eyes Sesshomaru watch the two leave and close the door behind them. Glancing down he looked once again at his mother's agenda. He was all but ready to approach the subject with Haru. Unease settled in him. Torn between being true to one's self and honoring one's heritage and parents. He was doomed if he did and doomed if he didn't. But then again would it really matter to anyone but himself. Many believed he hated or at least disliked humans but honestly, he disliked the majority of everyone regardless of race. He simply is not a people person like his father or a socialite in the Yokai community like his mother. Filing the papers away in his desk he his mind began to fill with possibility of what could be going on.

"Sakura." He said into his call button.

A minute later the river sprite walked in. "Yes, My Lord; what can I do for you?"

"Close the door." He waited will the latched clicked. "Did Councilman Haru go into my father's office with InuYasha?"

"Yes."

"Hnn."

Sakura made to exit then turned back. "Lady Kagome is still in there as well." Then she ducked back out.

Moving to resume his work he couldn't help but ponder. What business could father, Kagome and Haru have. Then his mother's remark on Kagome causing trouble with the European Counsil. If she was in trouble why hasn't anyone come to him or why hasn't she? Surely, she knows he would help, wouldn't she? Or perhaps it was her wishes to not come to him. Which he could not blame her if that was the case. Regardless he would approach her on the matter. Maybe if he was the one to make the first move, she would readily accept his help. But what could be going on that would garner this level of attention and authority.

"Hnn... Indeed, what is going on?" he murmured out loud.