Thank you Chapter 19 Reviewers
Loves2Spooge – Here you go love! I never forget! Just finding time to sit and write when everyday I go out to do business or be with the people.
Danielle596 – I updated boo! I hope you enjoy. I made it super long!
No fan of kikyo – Well just keep reading hun! I believe that will come into play in the chapter after next or so.
Rodidor –Yes it would cause hesitation. I definitely wanted to highlight the contrast and maybe later this will come more into the story.
GreenEggsN'Ham –Yes, exactly! You catch on quickly! Im going to have to watch you! =.=
Omg Yes! I got sick with the flu soon as I came to Japan. It was horrible. You need a certain health insurance to get medical treatment even if you have travelers insurance. I could not do anything for two weeks I was so sick. I share your moving pain.
White seprent – Thank you love! I hope to see your lovely review in the future.
calhounariel97 – LMAO! Love your comment boo!
Aiyami Sakura – I know! Anubis = dog. Bam! It came to me. I love Egyptian culture and I have been getting gifts from Egypt whenever my godfather goes there which is often for business.
It's just temporary. A lot has happened and I got offered the job here but I decided I'm just going to take it for the probationary period and either return home or travel to Europe. Many people know that I'm not exactly a setting roots type of person and the job offered to me here in Japan is a descent one but I don't want to make a long term contractual commitment.
Lilura Maeva – Thank you! I'm glad everyone had such positive raves about this chapter. I hope you enjoy then next one. Also thank you for your support. I made the move and soon I will be moving again! Where I don't know…I haven't decided. But, that's me!
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Chapter 20: False Kings
The golden sun was high in the cloudless blue summer sky bearing down on its earthly creatures among the Western Lands. Old green leafy trees swayed in the gentle breeze that came to see the commotion on the royal Western property high on the mountainous hills. Their giant forms overlooked the bustling castle grounds below. Rushing servants moved about preparing the royal carriage waiting outside on the lower platform to make the trek to Matsue where the gathering of the other cardinal Lords, Ladies, and the like were to meet. The sun gazed at its reflection against the Western Lord's shining metal armor and new braided cords holding it in place. The sun's brightness and heated rays did very little to deflect the mind of the young Inu Lord standing in his chaotic courtyard. His General at his side giving out orders to the head staff now in charge of various aspects of his domain during his absences as appointed by Ororo. Sesshomaru had learned from his time wondering the countryside in search for power, that he had to leave very specific details when leaving his estate for any length of time. A sense of relief filled him now that he knew he could leave his castle and have a select few in charge that would maintain order or risk their lives being slaughtered on the front stony steps of his castle.
Sesshomaru's hand tingled with warmth from the blood that coated it that early morning when he confronted the traitorous shrew in his home. He brought the weakling back to life and placed her in the dungeons where she now lay cold and bloodied onto the grey stone floors. He didn't press for information just yet. He wanted her to understand suffering and that regardless of if she spoke or not…possessed or not, she will reap the just punishment owed to her after her willing treason that started it all. It mattered not to him if she knew or not about how far her actions had gone. She still accepted the initial request to turn against him thus, allowing her body to be used by means of possession.
Sesshomaru's mind went over the scenario of feeling her blood run through his fingers and listening to her cries of pain and anguish bounce off the cold stone walls, never to be heard by anyone. Yet still it wasn't enough. He was in blood…an Inu. Having someone dangerous so close to one's den, threatened his station as head of his Inu Clan and his foundation as the Alpha of his home. He was sure by now word had reached his mother. The servants gossip knew no physical boundaries or barriers. His mother was also a woman of chatter and enjoyed the whispering halls especially if it aided her hand in court among the other nobles, clan heads, and Inu clan members. He slightly wondered if the gossip had already spilt into the street and would arrive to court prior to his own arrival.
His beastly nature was now riled up inside of him from that morning's activity. A grimace pulled at the sides of his lips slightly, but he remained unmoved. Sesshomaru stood tall and tense ready to face the other Lords and Ladies who did not take his initial words to heart. Regardless of the incidents happening in his home or around it, word of what happened would reach the others…and he will deal with it later. He would not bow to anyone's demands nor be moved to prove anything to anyone about his abilities and his rule. Sesshomaru's fist twitched in response to the Lord's cowardly letters, summons, and requests. His mind went to Ororo's words of cowardice regarding the men and women she deemed were crownless. At the thought of Ororo, he reflected on the morning's occurrence.
He looked down at the swords on his right hip as Tenseiga chimed brazenly in the air next to Bakusaiga. Both shined dangerously with a song of warning and expectations of bloodshed. His hand came up and rested on the black glossy leather-bound hilt of Tenseiga feeling its power beneath his clawed hand. His thoughts took him to the moment in which the strange Queen walked away so hastily after using his weapon on the fool that dared betray him. He remembered how Ororo's cerulean eyes stared widely at his use of his father's fanged heirloom after taking a life with his claws. He was also reminded of her strange exit as well in which this had left him quite perplexed at her behavior. Was she not pleased with his manner of execution? Why did he care?
His eyes trailed to the hem of his attire. His tall form was draped in the finest white and red silks. The heavy shiny metal of his armor reflected the sunlight above him as his eyes looked about the bustling area with boredom. His hair was combed in precision leaving a silky shine to his tendrils. Ah-Un was heavily brushed and coated with oils in his coat that smelled of lilac. The dual headed dragon was given new black leather reigns tied around his body and fed a great meal for the small journey to Matsue which was only a few hours away by flight. Everything was done to perfection even the carriage that he and Ororo would travel in was draped in white and red silks with the Western moon crest shining among the material and engraved into the wooden doors with designs of the Inu on the front panels. His vessel ultimately would enter Matsue and would speak of his wealth and power. But he didn't care for this display. Everyone knew well of his power otherwise they would have just confronted him at his door instead of using formalities and political leveraging to get what they wanted. But Ororo thought it was necessary and so he obliged.
Sesshomaru nodded to his General who spoke something quickly in passing and took off before the sight of Rin running out of the palace was seen. Her tiny feet beat heavily on the white courtyard refusing to be contained inside of the wooden zetas provided to her. Her spirit was one with the sun on this day again as her smile was bright and her mood filled with hope. He waited patiently for her arrival at his side while he scented the sweet smell of honey on her flesh most likely due to Ororo's oils and creams. He took her appearance in as she came closer donning another cotton white dress given to her by the weather sorceress with skin shining as if she was a little star. Her hair was free of any ribbons but showed that she had been groomed and received a cut as now her ends were all even around her head.
"Lord Sesshomaru!" She yelled excitedly running up to his leg and holding on for dear life.
"Are you sure I can't go this time?" She asked with hope in her big brown eyes.
Sesshomaru patted her on the top of her head gently with a single nod of his own. He felt her sigh heavily against him before bobbing her head in reluctant agreement. Rin slowly sunk into phase one of sulking as she looked down at her freshly manicured toes and then around her at all the people moving about hurriedly preparing for the departure for their Lord as well as attending to other duties. Sesshomaru opened his mouth to speak when a powerful familiar aura struck him and wafted out throughout his home. The hairs on his arms stood up and his instincts flared in aggression. The aura felt cool and left a dangerous electric surge in the air that rolled playfully on the top layer of his skin.
"Lady Ororo!" Rin suddenly let go and ran back from where she came clearly excited about the woman he knew to be approaching. This struck Sesshomaru as to how Rin knew Ororo was coming to begin with as her voice couldn't be heard and Rin didn't have spiritual powers to detect the woman's presence. He watched Rin weave between various demons and humans until she ran up the steps into the tall building.
Sesshomaru turned to look back at the preparation of Ah-Un when gasps and the slowing of movement were heard. He turned back towards his palace to see his General walking alongside a sight he couldn't fathom would be in existence in his country and lifetime. Ororo stood at the top of the steps through the large threshold of the building itself dressed decadently in regal attire he had never seen before in his life. Her body was draped in pure white silk and shimmery white cotton fabric, merging the two very different textiles together seamlessly. It draped on her shoulders leaving the arms bare which was quite scandalous to his people before her temporary rule came to pass during his absence. The dress dipped in the front and ruched at her narrow hips leaving the garment to follow the curve of her hips and down her legs to the floor. A thin mesh overlay of shimmering gold fabric covered the right side of her dress. Her dress sparkled under the bright light of the sun as if she had been bathed in its very essence. Her white snowy hair was slightly curled and pulled back behind her ears to fall down her back. On her head was a great golden crown which looked to be made of molten golden bird feathers traveling from the crown of her head and down her long snowy white locks. A giant sheer gold shawl hung over her shoulders connecting to the gold overlay. Her rather striking blue eyes had been lined with dark kohl and her lids held a brown glowing warmth of coloring as well. Colored blues of the sea had been painted in a fine line next to the kohl lining. Plump lips shined somewhat with a peach hue to them. Her neck, wrists, fingers, and ears were decorated tastefully in various colored jewels. Her weapons were to her side along with two other oddly shaped articles that looked like a hook and a beating cane but made from gold and painted in turquoise. Resting over her left arm was a folded-up red cloth shining brilliantly as well.
He watched her entire frame as she stood regally listening to what his General had to say. His General leaned in no doubt telling her the shared information of a nearby village to Matsue that had some intel about the monks they were looking for. But even then, that mattered little to him. The image of seeing the strong empress regally descend his castle steps…captured his imagination. Little Rin ran up beside her and clutched onto her hand tightly; catching the queen's affection and attention. Ororo immediately moved her head to look down and affectionately take Rin's hand and rub her fingers with her thumb. Her broad smile shined down at Rin as the little girl mirrored her smile back to her with her own bright one on display. Ororo bent down to kiss Rin's fingers before standing upright again and walking down the steps with both the General and Rin at her side; looking as if she was the great mother to the kingdom of the sun. Her head nodded as the General spoke to her while slowly and carefully she walked down seemingly floating. She nodded in greeting to her passer byers, listening and thanking graciously for their complimentary comments to her choice of apparel that day. Upon reaching the bottom step her eyes flashed upwards to stare into his honey eyes and her smile turned into a sly one as she approached him much a like a grinning cat would when presented a new mousy foe.
Ororo felt a surge of delight at seeing the young Lord. She looked him over and noted that he too was dressed in his finery which was subtle compared to her very unabashed bold ensemble. His hair was pulled back into a high ponytail leaving the long silver strands to fall down his back. His silk dressings were black with Inu dogs decorating the hem of his sleeves in fine blue and red threads. His furs were thrown over his strong shoulders and his body was decorated in dangerous shiny metal and thick colored chords that matched his house colors. She took note of his tall stance and how stiff his body stood unlike the relaxed state that she had the privilege of experiencing in his private onsen not too long ago. He clearly was prepared to meet his ruling foes with force that day. The General bowed to her and led her to his Lord with a curious glance bouncing between his Lord and the Queen. She strolled towards Sesshomaru with her chin up and eyes staring unwavering into Sesshomaru's own, daring him to look away. Rin spoke rapidly about something that was neither here nor there at her side. Ultimately, Rin's words got lost on Ororo's ears as they approached the Inu King. She admired his beauty unaware of his own look of approval and desire towards her.
"Hn". He stated in which Ororo took for a question.
Ororo smiled tilting her head up to him. "Today I dress to make a statement to these false kings and queens that call you to some strange court. I am making a statement that I am wealthy in many worlds and lifetimes greater than their own. That my power stretches as far as the sun reaches. That my rule knows the deepest depths of the moon. My agenda aligns today with the House of West and it blessed by Anubis. My word above all others is final and should anyone wish to test my hand, then they will feel my wrath and the wrath of Egypt as I do not hide or cower before anyone."
Now they stood millimeters apart both equipped and standing firm in their decisions. Everyone could see the similarities and the major contrasts between the two as well as feel their commanding energy. Sesshomaru listened to her statement and her words were agreeable. Ororo had somewhat calmed her aura and bowed slightly to the Inu King. Her ocean eyes showed that she was ready to depart and start the journey. Sesshomaru nodded in kind, and both soon turned to walk towards Au-Un.
"I see you have so graciously agreed to take the scenic route." Ororo stated looking at the luxurious carriage before her. It had been a while since she had traveled in anything like it. She eyed its design and thought of her own carriage back in Egypt. She had a smaller vessel that was a tad bit bigger than this that she rarely used. She much preferred and enjoyed that of the gift of her father which was a water vessel. The giant ornate boat allowed her to get quickly from one side of Egypt to the other by use of the Nile River. It had palm tree branches and golden tapestries draped around a large gazebo in which protected her from the elements. Colorful cloths and pillows sat under the shade comfortably as she would look about her kingdom. Her eyes blinked out of her memories, and she looked as the Western flag flew on top of the carriage waving in the wind.
"Do you have a flag to raise?" His baritone voice broke through her thoughts.
Ororo looked to him while rubbing Rin's fingers thoughtfully. She lifted her left arm and he took the cloth that she had brought with her. His General came over and immediately began opening the flag and deciphering how to put it on top of the coach. Rin gasped not quite use to seeing such delicate and shimmery material in Japan. After a few minutes the General stepped back and the rich red flag of Egypt waved next to the Western flag in the wind. It's gold fabric contrasted like she did to the West and held a gold symbol in the middle that looked oddly like a cross with a circle on top. Ororo looked to see Sesshomaru's eyes gaze at her flag and she pointed. "It is called an Ankh. In my culture it is a symbol of everlasting life. It represents on this flag the infinite ruling power of Egypt. Egypt is life and Egypt is power."
"Why is it so shiny?" Rin asked looking up at her with expectant brown eyes.
Ororo smiled and bent down so that she was eye level to Rin. She brushed Rin's hair back with her fingers and cupped her cheek. "Because we are the children of the great sun." She explained motherly and thumbed Rin's cheek in a gentle motion. "The sun in my culture means a great deal to my people. Just like it seems the moon is very fond of your people." She kissed Rin's cheek and stood up. "The color red represents life's blood and the golf color is reflective of the greatness that comes from the sun which gives life and guides us all in this world and the next."
Sesshomaru felt pride in her words and the stir of his basic self-arose. Her words of his crescent moon marks were reflective as it spoke of his demonic markings and symbol of the Inu clan's rule over the Western domain. He looked upon her and he couldn't help noticing how the dress clung tightly to her body, hiding her skin yet also playfully revealing her silhouette. The sudden urge to shield her body from others and delight in the sun rooted in his belly...again. His claws itched to reach for her and to return inside to finish what they started. Possessive almost hostile energy swelled in him and he couldn't quite place the reasoning behind it as he had no thoughts to cause such instinctive emotions. He looked to the far east and released a clarifying breath. Honey and lotus pulling onto his senses in a calming manner. Sesshomaru looked to his General and nodded indicating that they would now depart.
"Rin." He stated watching her let go of Ororo's hand and latch onto his leg for a final time, silently understanding the tone in his voice. She then let go and smiled brightly to him before moving over to hug Ororo one final time as well. Ororo looked to see Hiromi and her brood come forward and stand waiting to usher Rin back inside the resident quarters. Rin looked up at Ororo with a bright smile silently requesting that they return quickly back to her. Ororo reached down to hug the little girl tightly as well and kiss her again on her forehead while saying a silent prayer for protection.
"Watch over your home alright little one. Continue your studies and let me know if you experience anything odd. You remember what to do." Ororo and Rin shared a look with Rin bobbing her head in agreement. "We shall return soon." Ororo stated firmly hugging the little girl to her bosom before pulling away and motioning for Hiromi to take Rin by the hand now. Hiromi nodded with a smile and quickly walked over to Rin and asked for her assistance with her twins in the gardens.
"My Lorrrdddddd!" Came the squawking voice belonging to Jaken as he ran obnoxiously loud towards them with his staff waving about.
"Jaken you are to remain here." Came the cold tone of Sesshomaru who turned around already finished with the conversation; leaving Jaken to stumble to his feet in sadness at being denied the venture.
"Jaken don't worry. You can help us make more flower crowns and play with the twins." Rin called out happily, already excited by the idea of a full day of fun in one of her favorite places.
Jaken visibly paled at her suggestion before he fell to his knees onto the hard ground. "Spare me my Lord! Take me with you!"
Ororo smiled before turning to walk towards the door of the carriage before she stopped in motion. She looked back at Sesshomaru and tilted her head. Since this morning his aura was pulsing with palatable negative energy from his pent-up aggression from confronting his home's betrayer. She knew he needed to expend this energy or he needed a way to relax. But, she wasn't sure about touching the demon that could revive the souls that had not been weighed on the scale of Mat. That morning, his power shook her a bit as this was the first time the god Anubis had been so forth coming in her life. She never thought his legacy could be found in another country or another continent…but here was the royal descendent of great dogs before her waving his hand of life and death. Sesshomaru needed to be praised by his people and then some. How could no one see his brilliant power and legacy? He would be immortalized for eternity if they were in Egypt especially after displaying the power that he revealed to her. Her mind went over all morning everything about Lord Sesshomaru, finding him even more mysterious than when she first met him. Upon returning home, she would commission a great honor at the temple of Queen Hatshepsut where Anubis's temple also reigns. But she still needed to be careful of him as her goal of protecting her people from the vision she had was still top priority.
She had to completely reevaluate him as an ally and a foe which was daunting and questionable as now she wondered about the limits of his ultimate power in battle. The danger crept on her skin and excited her as well as warned for the Inu's mood. Ororo looked him over again deciding that maybe it was best to hurry and get the event over with before a possible slaughter would happen. She looked at the carriage before an idea struck her. She tilted her chin up and spoke to him in question. "Do you wish to take this craft or do you wish to use your method of flight? I do believe if we hurry and get there as well as state our claims than we may leave and seek our business elsewhere." She stated thoughtfully looking to him for his answer.
Sesshomaru stopped and looked down at her as he approached the carriage doors behind her. He quite frankly didn't want to go to the spectacle, but he needed to make one statement in front of the others so that there would be no confusion as to his desires and where he stood on the matter of attacking all humans and destroying them. He would not be a part of this petty war on humans, and he would not stand to have anyone attack on his borders and property. While he held a mild disdained of humanity, he had a kingdom to look after. He swore a blood oath to his people and to his clan that he is Alpha and his lands were under his protection. That also included his brother's territory in Edo which was off limits. He looked at the carriage forming a plan in his head.
Ororo could see his dissatisfaction at the mode of transportation. While she enjoyed comfort, luxury sometimes wasn't practical. Ever since this morning she too had been debating with herself on how to handle these men and woman of the court. She had read as much as she could about them all and had taken several notes as well. Conversations with the advisors were helpful but everyone knew that experience was always the best teacher. She didn't know what these men and women were capable of except maybe foolery in which she found was the usual main weapon of cowards especially those that sat at afar and wrote letters of personal opinions and unsolicited demands.
She looked back at the carriage and then to the agitated Lord before speaking. "I thought this method would be suitable but maybe we need to change. If we go by this device, we will travel slowly but if we go there ourselves then we can get there faster and leave once our message has been delivered and received." She also knew he would be using some of his power which could help in him getting rid of the negative energy he was harboring in his aura. Ororo looked at the dragon whose head was raised hopeful that it would be free of the contraption attached to its body. Ororo smiled and walked over to rub its heads gently in understanding. Slyly she turned her head to look at the Inu King. "I think it would be a good thing to go by ourselves. Then you and I can talk privately about some things that…perplexes me."
Sesshomaru looked to her seeing the mischief in her eyes and was intrigued. He noted the sheer material did very little to hide her back to him. The gold wings from her crown that fell down her hair reflected the sunlight giving her the desired effect she spoke about wanting. Surely, these Cardinal Lords would be in for a shock upon first glance. He walked over to her form and nodded in agreement. The General quickly came forward and took charge of Ah-Un not needing to be told of their request and change in plans. Sesshomaru walked forward out of the way with Ororo following behind him. His energy kicked up quite a bit which left the trees waving faster than usual. Blades of green grass ripped from their soil pockets in the earth as his power began to swirl around him in a gust of wind and light. Everyone backed away curious as to what was taking place and frightened at the sudden surge in their Lord's power. Ororo hugged her shawl closer around her to keep it from blowing up and away before approaching him. She stood close to him and watched as silver tufts of energy began to form wrapping them in panes of white light. Naturally, her arms lifted and moved around his neck gently now use to their often form of conveyance. A few seconds later and suddenly she was enraptured in a ball of light much like before and her body was pulled next to his tightly for safety.
The gems on her body from her wrists, chest and crown chimed upon touching his metal breastplate before they were completely absorbed in blinding white light. With a powerful kick of his foot he pushed them off the ground and took off. Through the light she could see everything as they lifted off the ground into the air at a rapid pace and shot across the plains and hills of his kingdom. The soft brush of his mokomo cradled her head and trailed behind them. Slowly she moved her hands downward from the soft fur towards touching the cold metal of his breastplate while looking about her at the kingdom below.
"Do you wish to speak now on what has caused you confusion?"
Ororo looked up at the Inu before she gazed down noting the weapons on his hips. Her thoughts were a mix of playfulness and yet real confusion. She had been quite perplexed and had her guard up since their morning encounter. She had prayed many times to Anubis and asked for wisdom of the Inu that she almost regrettably had grown rather close to. Too close. Only Anubis hands were able to touch the souls of the dead and guide them to be judged. But this dog before her was also able to touch the souls as well and bring them back to this realm. With ease.
Did he not know how powerful he was? How kingdoms would bow to him and give him his greatest desire for the power he had?
She thought heavily on her words before she spoke. "This morning…you brought back a life from the other side. It was…incredible." She stated honestly not knowing what else to say. "I'm perplexed because it is an act only performed by the Gods. Never have they allowed someone to be brought back once they have crossed over. Yet, you an Inu King from the other side of the world…was able to do so without prayer, meditation, council, or preparation. You simply acted and to your will she came to life." She recounted feeling goosebumps at the remembrance. Her eyebrows had drawn in from the memory of that morning when blood was split and a life was taken by his hand…and he gave life back.
Sesshomaru did not know what to make of her thoughts on his wield of Tenseiga. He looked down at her in his arms scanning her for truth but saw it was indeed a topic resting heavily on her shoulders. He couldn't understand her fascination with life and death. One thing he had come to know about the Egyptian Queen was that she heavily believed and revolved around the laws and tidings of the two opposites. He wondered if this also was a cultural notation as well. In Japan very little focused on the matter but instead focused on the current present of things. He looked forward in thought before simply supplying her with his silence as she did not ask a specific question yet.
Ororo looked up at him hearing his silent response deep in his chest cavity behind the cold metal she rested upon. Her ocean eyes stared up at him. "Do you not understand the power you have?" She asked bluntly.
He didn't look down as he continued their journey in the sky. His father's fang at the start had felt like nothing more than a pathetic waste of metal. His rage at not receiving the fanged Tessaiga, the sword of destruction was nearly blinding until he came upon foes in which tested the fang he was given. Over time his father's sword had proven its worth in battle and was indeed a powerful weapon to have as it had recovered a precious treasure to him that had more loyalty than anyone he had ever met. However, its ability to bring back the dead was a minor ace among the whole power and capability of the weapon. Yet, Ororo only praised that single ability. Was such a thing really praised highly in her lands?
Ororo looked at him in awe as he didn't even nudge at the notion that his power was at all grand. Surely, she did not know the capabilities of this demon for her visions and witness of his power only brushed the surface. Because he had such powers she questioned his own fearlessness of death. It could possibly explain his rather inept ability to be so callous and fearless in any situation she had seen him in.
Could he even die? Truly? She wondered.
Ororo looked to him and thought about his power. The more time she spent in his presence the more profound he became to her. He spoke bluntly of his talents but never gloated. Surely, every king among the great nations would gloat from sunrise to sunset of such a feat. But this Inu King did not and didn't even use his power until he chose to do so without pressure of others. This Inu King had more power than she could fathom and what perplexed her was his origin. She sighed against him wondering if they had indeed engaged in battle, how long would the battle go and who would be victor? "You are truly a being to be reckoned with, I will give you this." She stated choosing to drop it and move on to looking about the area. "I do have one question, but I shall save it for later." She stated pushing her cheek to the cold steel of his armor.
The rest of the journey was silent as they flew over hills and mountains at breakneck speed. They stopped to kill some time and as they left rather early thinking it would take them ages to get to Matsue. However now that they were flying directly with Sesshomaru's speed, they would be there too soon. So it was nice to stop and simply enjoy the silence of each other's company and just exist. Occasionally she would test him with her flirty words. He would respond with a gentle brush of his fingers or pretend he hadn't heard her in which she would delight in laughter. But for the most part she was silent. Both of their minds going over mentally what needed to be done this day. Tiny houses were tucked in villages below. Rice patty fields lined the creeks and streams stretching from their parent rivers that flowed throughout the land. Hills rolled into purple like mountains with grand old trees hiding their friends and treasures within. She could see fields of colorful blooms below in which Rin would have been delighted to see. She would take a note to ask Sesshomaru for an excursion for Rin outside of the palace now that she was safe within his walls. No one would dare harm her as she was now the most protected treasure in the West. They zipped through the air very quickly making great time as the sun had moved very little in its path in the sky. Time was nothing more than a word while the terrain changed in various forms. Slowly however, she noticed they had begun to descend. His power flexed abruptly shocking her slightly at his aggressive force bounded outward onto the world beneath them. His power felt of a burst of heat shaking the bones inside of her skin.
"Prepare yourself. We will land shortly." He spoke as his power continued to build.
Ororo looked down up ahead to see carriages of various kinds all lined outside with people standing still. She had to squint to see that the people were indeed lavishly dressed demons and demonesses frozen in front of their horses and various demonic breeds of animals. She shifted in his hold making to stand in the orb while keeping her hold on him so not to fall. She thought on the information she read in the books about Inu demons and their display of power including the behavior of the Alpha male. He was doing something typical of dogs; this she knew even from her experience dealing with the desert jackals and Arabian hound demons. They were quite a possessive breed and would even show up at times to her courtroom in Egypt ready to spray on whatever little margin was left up for grabs from a fallout of war with other nations.
Sesshomaru moved allowing her to adjust before he felt her aura heat him like the rays of the sun above them in a soothing almost calming manner. Sesshomaru could hear the gasps and the nervous chatter up ahead as others tried to flex their auras as well but none came up to par with his own. He could see the people in the village come out further into the streets to see with their eyes who else had arrived. He could feel the woman beside him shift and his hand holding onto hers tightened a bit. His eyes caught her gaze which hardened to that of the Queen he had seen sitting on his throne delegating to his people. Her signature chin up pose was already in place and he couldn't help but smirk at her bold display of confidence and sensuality.
Everything shook beneath them as they landed onto the stony pathway leading into the Matsue Castle. The villagers bowed before righting themselves to glimpse the unknown. The samurai of Matsue thoughtfully opened their castle as a neutral spot to speak about the affairs of the lands in hopes to deflect war among the major Cardinal Lords. They were all stationed around the entire property dressed to their fullest and looking ever so gallant in their armor, masks, and weapons. The light orb dissipated, and everyone gasped to see not just Sesshomaru looking menacing and cold but at his side a foreign woman unlike anything they had ever seen. He walked forward looking as the various soldiers and warriors that accompanied the guests bristle but stood in defense. He could feel that they were weak and would barely cause him to miss a breath if he decided a massive massacre was in order. He listened to the gentle sandaled feet of Ororo walking along the earth beside him taking in her surroundings.
Matsue Castle was humble and quaint in size. It sat towering over the gardens and Sakura blossoms that lined the pathways inside of its strong structure. Beautiful oak woods lined the village entryways to many homes. The castle served a purpose for peace and was well kept by the Samurai Lord in this region. Master Samurai Asahi was a very calm gentle spirit but was known to be fierce in battle. He was a Komodo dragon type demon and Alpha of his pack. He tried to keep his city and the people safe using nonviolence tactics first before engaging in battle. They walked inside casually listening to the chatter as they approached the main wooden doors leading inside the walkway. Samurai Asahi was there standing with his second in command bowing to all his visitors and welcoming them inside of his home. He was an honorable demon and for this no one would dare cause strife.
They both stepped towards Master Samurai Asahi to be welcomed inside and join the meeting of Lords and Ladies. Both nodded to Asahi who bowed respectfully low to them. His armor was grey in color, thick from the metal plating around his body, and black leather that layered upon him. Under his left arm was his warrior's helmet shining brightly along with his swords that rested on his hips. His fire red hair was long and held in a tight ponytail that reflected his yellowish scaly type skin. His face was rough with small cuts in the skin obviously proof of a man having seen many battles. But the laughter lines along his now growing grin was enough to give him the youthful look that reflected in his jade eyes.
"Lord Sesshomaru, Ruler of the Western Lands and Alpha of the House of Moon and Great Son of the Inu Pack." He stated proudly. "I knew it was you immediately upon your descent from the skies."
Ororo could see Samurai Asahi was very fond of Sesshomaru as his bright smile was genuine and bright. Asahi turned his head to look at his companion before he stilled. He leaned in closely a bit and looked upon her before he bowed lowly again. "I have heard of the great demons in the far West on the main continent and my father before me was brave enough to journey with a few merchants before returning back home. He spoke of those that thrived in the deserts of Egypt and the great power of your lands. The great eye that you wear around your neck and the symbols on your ears…I have seen from my father's drawings and a few scrolls made of strange paper. It is a great honor your Majesty. I am Samurai Asahi of the Komodo Clan." His fist went proudly over his heart as he stated his formalities.
Sesshomaru was a bit shocked to hear of anyone that knew of Ororo or her lands let alone someone that has actually seen her homeland. Surely, she was powerful if Samurai Asahi spoke of it which he often did not speak of others' talents unless facing them in battle and drawing strategy.
"The honor is mine Samurai Asahi. I am Ororo, Pharaoh Empress of Egypt and Queen of the Nile. I have read and gained knowledge of your great achievements not just in battle but as a diplomat. I am very pleased to meet you." She spoke truly respectable to the demon in front of them. "When this is over, I would like to delight in a cup of tea with you to recount your father's history for surely he was a great demon and very brave to travel so far. Of course, you would be his successor as you have done such an amazing job with keeping peace in this region."
This seemed to stroke his ego as Samurai Asahi smiled even brighter and Ororo could swear he started to poke out his chest in commemoration to his sire's greatness. He let out a low noise from his throat and one of his men immediately came by. He whispered quickly to the soldier who bowed and hastily rushed into the building in which they were entering. "I would be honored. But of course, that leaves the question as to why have you Great Pharaoh have traveled far beyond the seas and deserts to our abode." The Samurai stated boldly.
Ororo smiled as Sesshomaru moved forward indicating he was ready to proceed onwards. "This meeting will sum things up quite well for you." She responded vaguely before bowing and moving to walk with Lord Sesshomaru. She noticed that up ahead the other women were walking behind their Lords and not alongside of them. She had learned that in this culture women tended to serve as second citizens in their society and this irked her. She gazed beside her to see Sesshomaru continue the path forward without batting an eye at her cultural faux pau. She could hear voices behind them entering into the building as they climbed the steps upwards towards the meeting room. Many gasping to see such a strange sight seemingly dipped in silk and gold with the skin of the richest coconut.
Sesshomaru kept a stoic expression but flexed his aura once again upon entering the large room where guards stood at the ready. The room was large and opulent seating ladies and men from various stations of demonic society and breeds. The tatami floors shined brightly all around and the walls and the sliding doors held various beautiful paintings on them that took up the whole panel. Plants and minimalistic décor lined the room as chatter filled any empty space. Servants moved between guests pouring teas, serving edibles, and filling pipes. He allowed his aura to sweep the room uncaring of their thoughts and reactions. His mood wasn't in the best of places that late morning as he strode to his seat and already he desired to reach towards the nearest imbecile and gut him to the bone. The lower ranks sat on the lower wooden platforms while the Cardinal Lords and Ladies all held a cushioned seat above everyone placed in the various directions of where they ruled. Naturally his seat was on the West end and empty of his people. His eyes traveled to his station ignoring the whispers, murmurs, and various emotional stenches that assaulted his senses. As he approached, he could see demonesses preparing his spot as well as preparing another beside him which he presumed was for Ororo. The cushion was pulled next to his and had its on serving table beside it recognizing her as an individual ruling body. He looked to her watching her eyes flit about, clearly excited and comfortable being the center of attention at the moment.
Ororo stepped through the threshold and followed alongside Lord Sesshomaru smirking as the ton seemed to crane and nearly break their necks trying to see what their imaginations could not fathom. She couldn't deny, she loved the attention. It was in her nature as an Egyptian woman and queen to be so vain on this matter. She also mused it could very well be the shock of seeing Lord Sesshomaru or him with foreign woman. Boldly her eyes looked about making eye contact and watching how many shied away at her daring behavior. She looked everyone in the face that she could see without Sesshomaru's tall muscular form blocking the way. She looked humorously watching as several cushions of gold and reds were fluffed and a small table now filled with delights and a steaming kettle sat on a wooden base ready for her enjoyment. Women quickly poured the tea and began to shuffle away as she came closer. She gazed at Sesshomaru purposely turning her head to look at him feeling his aura sweep the room so brazenly and unapologetic. They made it to their seating in which both sat down simultaneously. Ororo was a bit shocked to feel his hand grab hers and assist her in sitting on her cushion. As he did this, he continued looking at nothing in particular and she visually challenged everyone to a staring contest.
"Must you be so bold?" Sesshomaru muttered looking down at the way her dress flowed around her lavishly. Ororo smirked and looked to the Inu King at her side. Her dress fanned out around her beautifully as she wanted and the torches along the walls with the natural lighting coming from the windows really made her body sparkle. Sesshomaru caught onto why she picked this specific outfit seeing how it moved about her like the gentle breeze and seemingly changed shades in the different lighting.
Her eyes scanned the crowd and noticed the West had almost no allies that showed up. Some she recognized from court, but their section was sparse compared to the rest with many cushions and rows filled to the brim with demons and demonesses dressed in great finery. She knew Sesshomaru had already sent out his verdict and so many thought not to waste time and breath to be here. She wondered if the other Lords were irked by this. That even the lowest of the low of Sesshomaru's party hadn't even bothered to show up. That was so very disrespectful and masterfully genius. "Must you scare these people to death and disrespect them before we even make it to the introductions?" Ororo countered and pulled her golden shawl closer around her.
"But you are so very fond of making statements. This Sesshomaru was simply making one himself." He spoke closing his eyes while placing his hands within his sleeves and sitting regally on his own cushions.
Ororo smirked at his cheeky statement. "Well, I think I was well received." Her curious gaze swept the room before giving him her full attention. "I fear our concerns will be realized. Fear has surfaced in this group which is never a good thing." She muttered adjusting her weapons hidden under the layer of gold she wrapped securely around her thighs. Something in her spirit spoke gravely about this meeting. She watched as women sat in their colorful reds, pinks, greens, blues, and purple furisodes with decorative fans waving about. Their brilliant ornaments chimed and danced about them as they whispered amongst each other in curiosity as well as disgust for her person. Their hair stacked on their heads in different styles showcasing the current fashions among the court. Men murmured or sat silent trying to look unaffected while others assessed her with leeching eyes and hot desires. They too were dressed much like Lord Sesshomaru which seemed very subtle, but the devil was in the details. Her eyes went to the Cardinal Lords and Ladies on their floor around the room sharing words and also flexing their auras after having been caught off guard by Sesshomaru.
"I cannot wait until your people begin to invest in high sitting chairs." Ororo stated adjusting so that her legs wouldn't fall asleep. She could have sworn she heard a chuckle from the Inu beside her and she quickly looked at him with a side smirk. She leaned in and rolled her hand around in the air. "Even you cannot deny that you enjoy great continental inventions as your home has some of the most foreign items I have ever seen. All you need really is proper seating as well as a proper bed."
"How do you know that my current sleeping quarters isn't efficient?" He challenged still keeping his eyes forward and face stoic.
"How easily you forget I saw your bed…several times as a matter of fact." Ororo countered with a smirk no longer caring of the people around them now that the conversation had turned to something of interest to her.
"Hn". His eyes moved to see her looking around the room as if they weren't speaking of anything precarious. His golden gaze fell on her shimmery bronzed skin that now took on the temptation of watching honey drip from a comb. Ororo looked to him with a crooked smile and a raised eyebrow. "I suppose I could commission a high bed to be made and we can compare if you wish." She dragged before her voice almost went silent. Sesshomaru watched as her eyebrows drew inwardly while looking out into the sea of demons gathering to speak about sentiments they already knew and had an answer for. Her mouth went slightly open and her blue eyes became sharp. He could sense a slight change in her demeanor as she shifted to sit higher in pose if possible. Her eyes went to him and she nodded. "There's one in this room that cannot be trusted among the rest." She whispered looking around trying to gather whom it was.
Sesshomaru nodded until he looked behind her to see another Lord approaching. His mouth closed and he had gone silent. Ororo turned gently in her cushioned seat to see a rather tall and much older Lord approach. This demon looked to be not a typical Lord but a Cardinal Lord as he had a crest on his forehead of a small orange tear drop prism. His colors were black and orange with many lines in his face from age. The demon was bald and looked exceptionally human except for the multiple bright orange tails wrapped around his shoulder. This demon's aura was light and seemed jovial to Ororo who began to anticipate his arrival to their stations. Before the demon got close Sesshomaru bowed his head lightly and the demon did so too in kind. His came forward with his bright brown eyes and lowered himself onto the pillow next to Sesshomaru.
"Lord Sesshomaru." He greeted.
"Lord Shoji." Sesshomaru responded.
The Lord looked over to her and bowed waiting for the introduction. Lord Sesshomaru didn't give one which caused the older demon to sigh heavily.
"Why must you be so difficult. Even your father would throw an old wolf a bone." He said before smiling greatly at her and bowing again. "I am Lord Shoji, Cardinal Lord of the Northern Lands."
Ororo nodded in kind to him. "Pleasure. I am Pharoah Ororo, Empress of Egypt and ally to the Western Territory." She simplified.
He bowed to her again. "Welcome to our homeland. I must say your presence has stirred the air." He stated with a smile as Sesshomaru continued to ignore him.
Ororo smiled. "I am going to do far more than stir the air great Cardinal Lord." She spoke looking about the room to once again look for whomever was up to no good.
"Yes, I must admit this is not ideal. Even for me." He mumbled looking towards his station to see his wife and children sitting in rows with serious expressions whispering while looking back at them. He looked at Sesshomaru with deep concern. "You do know what this meeting is about? I was not at the last few meetings in which you have my humblest of apologies. I didn't think Lord Tanako of the Southern Lands had it in him to push for war." He stated looking around the room at all the people mingling and speaking low of the judgement to pass.
"You never come to the meetings even when they are in your home." Sesshomaru cut in causing Ororo to look between the two curiously.
Lord Shoji smiled and rubbed his head. "I get lost a lot along the way and somehow when I find myself in the right area the meetings are always over. I guess I'm just too old for these things. I feel I might get lost at the next one too."
Ororo deadpanned as she looked at his serious expression. Her head whipped at the sudden annoyed aura coming from the Inu beside her. She bit her lip to keep her laughter within herself as the older demon smiled to her and winked. "My mate and pups came with me to this one as Lord Tanako wanted to make sure I didn't get lost again today." He whispered gruffly.
Ororo remembered how Lord Sesshomaru spoke about the other Lords in his office. He said that they would be cowardly but in what reference? Clearly this older demon did not want war so he did not go to the meetings and did not respond to Lord Tanako's pestering until it had made it here. That did not make him weak unless he was running away from confrontation. But, he seemed to genuinely not like these meetings and she can see why. She nodded to him and spoke directly to him; catching his eye contact and shocking him a bit by her boldness.
"Lord Shoji if I may ask, where do you stand on this issue we are discussing? Do you wish for war with the humans? Do you want to eradicate them all?"
Lord Shoji hesitated before opening his mouth to speak.
"Great Son!"
Lord Shoji turned to bow to a woman that looked remarkably akin to Sesshomaru. "Well I think this is my cue to leave." The old demon said before shuffling back to his family.
Ororo's sapphire eyes locked with golden orbs that seemed as strong as hers. The demoness had powder white tresses much like her own but where silky and straight like Lord Sesshomaru's. Her body was draped with silk layers, and she too had coloring on the eyelids and lips. She looked back to Sesshomaru who nodded to the woman but still kept his stoic expression unlike the affectionate communication she knew to pass between mother and child.
"Mother." He responded.
Ororo took note of her intricate light pink kimono with multiple colored white and pink layers underneath. The sleeves were decorated with sakura blossoms blowing along the garment all the way to the hems. The demoness's skin was very pale and her face held touches of rouge that highlighted her beautiful attributes. Beautiful floral combs and pins held her hair down making her look like a doll of some kind. Ororo watched the woman lower herself onto the cushion to the left slightly behind her son and folded her hands gently in her lap. Women rushed quickly to her side and began pouring the tea. Lord Shoji used her presence as time to escape answering the question. Ororo sighed realizing Sesshomaru may have been right about the other Lords and Ladies cowardice after all. Their fear knew no bounds even in question format. She had expected much from him being he was older. She had hoped wisdom and bravery but she was wrong.
"My son, are you not going to introduce me to our land's ally?"
Sesshomaru was silent. He knew his mother would come as she always got involved in court. It was her favorite pastime besides meddling in the affairs of others. It set her position high among the women of the ton in which she loved to stay. He did however hope that she would miss this meeting but he knew she wouldn't. She wanted to be looked upon and revered. He paused at this in thought as an idea formed. He already did not want to be there and quite frankly he only came to say one thing and then he was going to leave. They were wasting enough time as it was as their current enemy was still wandering and possessing others to do its bidding under the guise of a spiritual pacifist to the humans.
The demoness sighed before diving into introductions. "I am Lady InuKimi, Honorable Regent Mother to the Western Lands and Queen of the House of Azai of the Inu clan. And you I presume are the famed Empress Ororo?"
Ororo smiled regardless as she nodded to the woman in greeting showing respect. "I am Honorable Mother." She responded giving her the proper address as if she was back in Egypt. Ororo looked between the two Inus and she could see the resemblance and it brought humor to her lips. She could see how tense Sesshomaru had become as he sat in silence seemingly ignoring his mother. "I am Pharoah Ororo, Empress of Egypt and Queen of the Nile. Ally to your son's house."
Lady Inukimi picked up her delicate teacup and took a sip of her steaming herbal refreshment. Inukimi looked over the foreign woman now understanding the whispering of the women and their jealousy. She sipped from her cup with a smile noting the bright jewels and rich articles that covered her from head to toe. She could see her muscles were toned as well speaking of a warrior's life. Her humor filled eyes flickered downward on the other levels at the mothers advising their daughters while forcing smiles in her direction hoping to gain silent favor while the other women snickered and glared at the brown beauty. How they found time to husband hunt even in the throes of war claims would baffle her. Those women of court below running their mouths in a panic did have everything to fear today at court and it wasn't the threat of war.
Flaunting around her son's palace was a woman unlike any in Japan. Pride swelled inside of her that her son would seek only the best in everything including a mate as this must be why a great ruling Queen would travel so far and be so welcomed into her son's den. She had heard the rumors about the great queen living in her son's home but did not believe it. Soon stories that she held court and was giving judgement on his behalf had reached her. She was intrigued enough to look inside of her Meidou Stone and she was indeed in for a treat. A great Empress from a land three times as big than the Cardinal Lords entire landmass put together was behaving in her son's home as if she ruled and was doing so in the manner of that of a man. She had also heard rumors that the Empress had slept in her son's den which was only for blood relatives of the Inu. Lady Inukimi looked again at Ororo over her teacup's rim and her smile broadened. To be frank, she wasn't even here for the asinine meeting in which she already knew her son's wishes. She dressed up to meet the famed Empress that captured the imagination and hearts of the Inu's that worked inside of her late mate's castle. She simply came to see a show.
Lady Inukimi nodded her head in approval before shifting forward in her seat. Her hands placed her cup down gently on the small table before she too stared around the room. Her kimono barely shifted and she made very little noise. Lady Inukimi was as poised as her son and Ororo could see where his mannerisms came from. Her chin was tilted upward setting forth her own stoic gaze of nonchalance and contentment. "So, are we eating the humans or saving them?" She asked humorously touching her fan delicately that rested inside of her sleeves.
"We protect what's ours." Sesshomaru stated firmly opening his eyes as the court all settled down and the whispers began to die. Standing up and calling the court to order was Samurai Asahi. He and his clan sat on their hind legs bowing to the room and calling for a peaceful discussion. Hesitation and an array of fiery emotions were on everyone's lips. Eyes were cut as everyone secretly looked to a neighbor and tried to copy their stance to seem stronger. Samurai Asahi appointed his scholars to take accounts and soon the floor opened for conversation.
"It has been a while since all of the Cardinal Lords were in attendance." Samurai Asahi humored doing his best to break the tension. "We are honored to have all Shoguns, Daimyos, Warriors, Lords, Ladies, and Allies of high honor present here this day. The highest regards go to Lord Shoji of the Northern Lands and his family, Lord Tanako of the Southern Lands and his mate, Lord Ryoga of the Eastern Lands, and Lord Sesshomaru of the Western Lands and his family." Everyone's face turned to look at the Cardinal Lords who sat regal on their cushioned pillows with power fluctuating around the room. Ororo scoffed in her seat feeling their supposed power as she sat majestically next to the demon she knew could levy them in seconds. She felt the warmth of dare she say pride while sitting next to this foreign demon Inu who resembled the like of God Anubis.
"We also welcome the mates, families, clans, advisers, and allies of our cardinal Lords who came to be here to show support. I also would like to humbly welcome Empress Ororo the great ruling Queen of allied nation of Egypt to our great nations from the continent." He announced bowing to her along with his clansmen.
Ororo nodded to him with a smile and looked around the room displaying nothing but her presence. It was a lesson learned to not display one's power so early in battle. Confused expressions were all around while some men looked aroused and bowed deeply to her. Others didn't share the same temperament.
"Now let's begin with our meeting. There are great concerns that the humans are using spiritual means to possess and attack demon villages. Humans have begun rallying their sources and marking territory as if it is theirs to claim. When confronted peacefully, they seek to attack and steal everything from the demons. Many of you already hold no favor for them and wish to proceed with dire consequences and rage a war to eliminate them all." Samurai Asahi summed up the predicament. "The question is now about the effects of war. Are we in agreement to move forward with the mass killing of the humans?"
Many of the demons nodded in agreement with the statement and spoke. Soon many demons started to speak about the matter and talk across the room. "I think we should at least take out the troublesome ones."
"We can't kill them all. They greatly outnumber the demon race and I'm sure the moment we issue war they will bring their holy weapons."
"Are you afraid Shogun Yutaka? We are stronger in every aspect. We could end their existence tonight and have nothing to fear."
"But there are good humans that have aided demons in many situations. Do you wish to destroy what little peace and respect we have for each other?"
"There's nothing to destroy because they don't have the capability like us to be logical."
Everyone had mixed emotions. Some tried to stand up for the humans and others stood against the act of war itself. Ororo sat in her seat in silence listening to the stupidity around the room. Her eyes studied the people as they grew red with anger and their words spat out misplaced hate founded upon ridiculous notions that made no sense.
Did they not know that some of the greatest inventions were created by human minds and made by human hands? Were they so afraid that they would rather sneak and destroy humans in the night than confront them like equals? Did they fear retribution and human hands so much that they would be hateful for no reason and seek to war against them?
Every hateful sentiment was backed with nothing factual. The information shared by Lord Sesshomaru and his court back at the palace was full of facts and led to direct consequences. No one here looked to do an investigation but wanted to act quickly. A sigh escaped her and she could feel what little patience she now had leaving her hearing these mundane accounts. Ororo completely tuned out wondering why this was going on for so long. In her homeland when she had an issue, she wrote a letter and it was carried to their leader. If the leader didn't heed her request, she would state a war letter and send it to their leader and their people to be read out loud. If negotiations were open, they would meet and the statements were written and signed by both parties. That was all. There would be no wasting of time discussing the same thing over and over. There was only one question, to vote for war or not. She glanced at her side to see a rigid Inu King and mother sitting slightly behind her son giving the same expression. His aura was lethal and she knew he was reaching his limits. They had been silent the entire discussion clearly non-caring of the conversation to be had. Ororo looked to try and make out what time of day it was, but she couldn't tell. She was growing annoyed and bored herself. So, she told herself she would give them just a short period of time before she just spoke and walked out. She did not have time for this.
"Lord Sesshomaru!"
Her head turned slowly to look at the demon who addressed him. She tensed seeing it was the Cardinal Lord Tanako speaking with a smirk planted on his face next to his wife who tried to seem demure but looked scandalous with the bright red makeup.
"You have been quiet along with your…esteemed guest. Please contribute." He stated with a crooked smirk on his face. Ororo looked at him and she could feel her skin crawl. Her hands went down to touch her outer thigh where her weapons sat. She looked at him and felt something was amiss. It was the same feeling of being in Sesshomaru's castle when the betrayer walked the halls and Rin wasn't safe. She was a weather goddess and that meant she was attuned with everything in the atmosphere. She could sense his arrogance and even his deceptive nature. Her mind was screaming that this demon could not be trusted.
"You already are aware of my answer and this Sesshomaru does not waste his time discussing decisions already made and given." The demon to her side stated in his natural voice which seemed to still echo in the massive room.
Lord Tanako held his hands up and out. "You would really turn down the call of your own brethren to protect the ones that have wronged us? The ones that have brutalized those us when we did nothing to deserve these attacks?" He stated loudly as everyone mumbled.
Sesshomaru didn't answer, seeing him for exactly for what he was as well as his little trap he laid. Lord Tanako turned to Ororo then and pointed to her. "Great Empress, do you agree? Although, I'm not sure as to the reason why your presence was brought here today...the matters of our people don't necessarily concern an outsider. However, even you have to say we are in the right. Wouldn't you defend your people from those that attacked you first? Wouldn't you eradicate them?"
Ororo scoffed at his childish manipulation and his dig at her person. Her expression was dark, and her eyes were cut like steel as she glared into him. Ororo suddenly stood catching the attention of the demon beside her. She slowly walked with poise staring into Lord Tanako's eyes as she made her way down the platform to stand in the middle of the room where Samurai Asahi sat with his men. Her elegant dress dragged behind her putting on quite the show while her aura spiked dangerously towards Lord Tanako's direction.
Sesshomaru watched every move Ororo made descending downwards towards the center of the room. His claws extracted slightly ready to attack as he kept her in his sight. Lady Inukimi was shocked but sat erect just in case she was needed. She placed her cup down and gripped her fan tightly in one hand while the other went in search of her weapon. Her eyes traveled to her son hoping he could relay a message of explanation through expression, but she knew she would find nothing there as he seemed to take the entire room as a potential threat. His posture had changed slightly, and she could sense her son would engage on behalf of this woman rather he was aware of it or not. Her citrine eyes trailed to Sesshomaru's clawed hands to see one hand rest on his weapon's hilt ready to be used if needed. Lady Inukimi silently reached into her hidden pocket for her Meido Stone. Her long sharp nails glided dangerously over its serene surface ready as well.
Ororo's golden layered dress swept the floor as she stood at the center and looked at Lord Tanako in the face standing eye to eye with him. "I am here for many reasons." Her head turned to address the entire room as she had heard enough ignorance for a lifetime. She waved her hand at him in dismissal causing many to gasp at her outright disrespect. "Let me be frank with you all. My great country Egypt has many allies on various continents and constantly seeks to align with ruling powers that are of higher thinking and forward progression. It is because of this that the honorable Western Lands had been chosen to align with Egypt and I am here for this purpose which so happen to be the time in which your lands choose to display its underbelly." She stated, looking to Lord Sesshomaru and Lady Inukimi with a smirk of her own. She was very careful to hide her true reasons. Additionally, she felt like none of the demons present deserved to know anything in the first place about her true motives nor any agreement struck between her and the west. Everyone in the room began to whisper as she continued walking around the room.
"My family has ruled my very large country since it's creation which is over several millennia. Egypt is older than any of you in this room and out rules beyond your few acres of land. I have been ruling for almost a full one by myself alone. I do not need to consult with anyone but my ancestors and the Gods. No man or demon is involved in my final say and that extends to this place." She countered looking directly at Lord Tanako when she said this watching him turn red in the face at her insult of his small lands. "Never have I heard such nonsense in my lifetime of being on the Egyptian throne. I have seen over a thousand wars which have lasted minutes to centuries and have not had this asinine idea to eradicate an entire species." Her head stayed looking to Lord Tanako with a deadly gaze and a smug expression. "Until…now."
"Egypt is very old which means we have learned many lessons including going after a group of people for unjust reasons. It has always ended in the death of both sides. For you do not know who the humans have aid from nor is their benefactor. I have always researched extensively and have had proof of the ones that have done Egypt or the crown a disservice or a heavy wrong. We do not senselessly kill those that have nothing to do with the matter. To not have proper evidence is foolish and shows the hands of a child instead of that of a ruling entity. A child throwing a tantrum because they are afraid or lack the ability to stay strong despite a few high tides rolling in." She jabbed walking around now looking at everyone. Lord Tanako stuttered, and his face began to darken. His eyes bled and his hands tightened at his side. His mate at his side was equally pissed as she hissed out.
"I know you are very young and so I pity you and give you this advice which I have been given by many generations before all of you." Ororo's eyes began to mist slightly. Blue orbs turning into milky cauldrons. She clapsed her fingers in front of her and simply looked to everyone in the room. The torches on the walls flickered dangerously. Everyone noticed it began to get darker outside. Ice crept up the sides of the walls. The natural light filling the room began to fade. Some of the women became frightened and scooted closer to their mates as they looked on to the foreign Queen. Gasps and whispers fluttered about the area and Lord Asahi held his hand up to him men that moved to stop Ororo. The temperature in the room began to drop and soon everyone was shaking or pulling their clothes and furs tighter around them. Lord Asahi looked at Ororo with awe before he blew his breath slightly. Cool white puffs came from his lips as if he was during a brutal winter.
"I have listened, and I have grown tired of this conversation." Ororo rolled her shoulders back and stood tall. Her flesh going unaffected by the chill of the air or the danger of the winds outside. "My ally… King Sesshomaru of the West has given his answer and yet you still require an explanation when in fact you do not need nor deserve one. No…is a full sentence Lords and Ladies rather you agree with it or not is not any of our concern. So here is your clarifying moment Lord Tanako." She smiled and looked to him directly watching him grip the floor and bare fangs. "I don't believe humans are to blame for all your problems and advise you to get to the real heart of the matter. If you have the resources to go to war than you must have the resources to solve your own problems and to not let fearmongering and jaded anger to cloud your judgement when it affects multiple lives and environments. That shows signs of incompetence which I do not tolerate."
"How dare-!"
"Regardless!" Ororo cut in loudly and kept talking. She walked around the room again to rake everyone with her gaze. "Egypt will support the Inu Clan and Western Territories in their pursuits." She stated firmly looking at Tanako specifically. "And if you must know Lord Tanako…what happens here is my business because I make it so." She smiled. "That's what true kings…do. I need no one's permission to be anywhere in the world where the sun touches. And if anyone…I mean anyone… gets in the way of my Godly desires to be, I promise that it will not be just the humans you should meet about. And I do not war to eradicate, I war for either total collapse or absorption of my enemy. And Egypt wars don't go on for years. We war for lifetimes." She pinned Lord Tanako with a look threatening him with her promise.
Ororo waved her fingers and clasped them again to her front. The energy released in the room and the clouds shifted in the sky. Sunlight began to filter back into the windows, lighting the room. The sun brought forth immediate warmth that filtered inside. A collective gasp and mutters filled the room. Everyone rubbed their arms and shoulders trying to get warm again while hissing dangerously at Ororo. Red eyes and feral growls were all around her, yet she smirked as they all sat unmoving. Lord Asahi and his clan sat up holding their weapons but remained still.
Ororo was about to say something else when she noticed Lord Sesshomaru stepped beside her. She didn't realize he had gotten up as she was too preoccupied making sure Lord Tanako received her warnings and was put into his place. She looked to see Lady Inukimi still sitting with a smirk clearly enjoying the new development. Ororo stood closely to the Inu demon and was able to feel his presence which she swore she could feel rumble the earth beneath her. "You have your answer and this Sesshomaru does not repeat himself. If your war spills onto my lands or what's mine in Edo, you and everyone else will die." He stated before turning and leaving the room from which they came. Everyone watched as the great Lord gave his back. He gave firm nod to Lord Asahi and paused to gaze at Ororo, silently requesting her to come along.
Ororo nodded before looking to Lord Asahi with warmth in her gaze. She walked over to him, watching as his men moved to protect him but he held up his fisted palm to stop them. His face looked to her with acceptance. Her jeweled fingers reached out and touched his hands warming them and apologizing for the discomfort. "Thank you, Master Samurai Asahi for your gracious hospitality. You are more than welcome to come to Egypt like your father and maybe we too can set up a trade as well. Whenever I am in your vicinity, you are more than welcome to take up company. In the meantime, please write to the West your wishes and we can discuss what an allyship can look like for us both." Ororo bowed to him gently, crossing her right arm over her chest elegantly. Still in shock, Lord Asahi quickly nodded and gave her a fanged gratuitous smile to her as his men sat back down in bewilderment. She let him go and made her exit out of the room to follow the Inu King.
Lady InuKimi picked up her lacquered red fan and smiled looking at the chaotic faces of everyone. It was nice to see everyone so upheaval and on the other side of a strong tongue lashing and judgmental call. She had to endure a lot from the aftermath of Lord Toga's choices and death publicly by this same court that had now been leveled thanks to an outsider. How humbling it was when there was someone else on the food chain that was bigger and stronger than you. Lady InuKimi looked after the Empress exit with her son in mirth. She did catch on to the fact that her son strategically left his mother behind to deal with their aftermath.
"Brat." She muttered to herself before waving for another hot batch of tea to be served.
She could feel the looks of the women looking to her and slowly the men. Lord Tanako did not look towards her at all which brought her some humor as he was so vocal nearly ten minutes ago. How easily he had been muted when dealing with someone who really had the means to not care what he had to say or thought. Lady Inukimi's eyes scanned the room to her side. Some already planning to speak to her but her eyes cut into them letting them know that they will be met with consistency in remarks and increased hostility if they try anything with her. Many of them would not dare question her or attack her due to her high rank and status. It would be highly disgraceful, and they all had much to lose compared to her. Lady Inukimi stroked the Meido Stone in her kimono pocket with affection as the servants came to do her bidding and fluffed her seated cushion.
But what brought her more joy was to see the potential companionship on the table. Lady Ororo was no mere princess. How her son managed to meet such a woman was beyond her and worth investigating. But more importantly, she was interested to see the real power play presented in this room. And it wasn't from the Cardinal Lords but from whatever was going on between her son and the foreign empress. Her golden eyes were lit with enthusiasm as she knew many demonesses would request an audience with her as soon as possible to possibly match their offspring after seeing that display. She was very intrigued about this and excited at the many gifts that would come pouring into her tearoom in the next coming days. Today was a great day to be at court! Lady Inukimi put her fan down and picked up her teacup. She cleared her throat and took a sip from the rim delicately catching he looks of everyone in the room. "Well…now shall we continue where my son and his guest…left off?" She stated with a broad dangerous smile shining down upon everyone and a plan forming behind it.
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