As I continued my journey down the palace's grand corridor, the scent of ancient wood and polished stone enveloped me. The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries depicting the clan's illustrious history, each thread woven with stories of valor, unity, and duty. The soft glow of lanterns suspended from ornate sconces cast warm, inviting pools of light along the path, illuminating the finely crafted details of the palace's architecture.

My footsteps, softened by the plush carpets lining the corridor, echoed faintly as I made my way toward the main hall. The cool, polished marble beneath my feet was a testament to the craftsmanship that had gone into every aspect of the palace's design.

Every corner I turned, every door I passed, held memories and secrets from the past, etched into the very essence of the building. The palace was a living monument to the House of the Moon, a testament to its enduring legacy.

As I approached a set of tall, arched windows that overlooked the palace grounds, I couldn't help but pause. The view was breath-taking. Beyond the panes of glass, the sprawling gardens stretched out in a symphony of colors and life. Cherry blossom trees, their delicate petals dancing in the breeze, lined the walkways like a corridor of dreams. The gardens were a testament to the harmony that had been achieved under the house's rule, a tranquil oasis amidst the chaos of the outside world.

I lingered for a moment, the cool breeze brushing against my skin and ruffling my hair, the sight before me a reminder of the peace and prosperity that had been achieved under the House of the Moon's leadership.

With a renewed sense of purpose, I continued my journey, my footsteps echoing in the corridor as I made my way to the main hall, where Shippo awaited our reunion.

As I turned a corner, the palace's intricate corridors revealed a surprise: Mia. Her bright, inquisitive eyes sparkled with warmth as she greeted me with a friendly smile.

"If you are looking for the fox kit," Mia said in her typically helpful manner, "then you will find him in the training grounds." Her voice carried the same warm tone as her expression, making it clear that she genuinely cared about assisting me.

I offered a polite nod of thanks, appreciating her willingness to offer assistance. Mia, always eager to be of help, didn't stop there.

"Would you like me to show you the way?" she inquired, her friendly demeanor shining through.

I paused for a brief moment, considering her offer. It was evident that Mia was genuinely concerned with making my visit more comfortable, and her kindness warmed my heart. However, I ultimately decided to decline with a warm, grateful smile. "I can find my own way, thank you."

With our brief interaction concluding, I continued on my path, navigating the familiar halls of the palace toward my destination. Mia's friendliness and willingness to assist left a pleasant and lasting impression, casting a gentle, welcoming light on my journey through the palace's intricate corridors.

I found Shippo at the edge of the expansive training grounds, the heart of martial prowess within the palace. The area was a bustling hive of activity, filled with the sounds of clashing weapons, the grunts of warriors in training, and the constant whirl of energy. The ground was a firm mixture of well-trodden dirt and patches of vibrant green grass, bearing the marks of countless training sessions.

My keen senses immediately picked up the various training sessions taking place around us. To our left, a group of swordsmen engaged in swift and graceful combat, their blades singing through the air with a harmonious rhythm. Further ahead, archers honed their skills, releasing arrows with pinpoint precision, their concentration unwavering.

In the center of it all, Shippo was engrossed in his practice, meticulously going over a variety of weapons and giving each one a trial. I had made sure to provide him with a comprehensive education in weaponry, and it seemed he had developed a preference for a medium, one-handed sword. His movements were precise, fluid, and filled with grace, a testament to the training I had provided. The instructors watched him with keen interest, nodding in approval at his displayed skills.

The training grounds hummed with an electric energy, an atmosphere charged with discipline and dedication. The warriors, each focused on their own path to mastery, created a symphony of determination and effort. It was a scene that embodied the essence of the House of the Moon, where martial prowess and dedication to one's craft were held in the highest regard.

I approached the nearest instructor, a seasoned warrior who had been observing Shippo's training with keen interest. "What do you think of my boy?" I inquired, my voice laced with pride. The instructor studied Shippo's movements, assessing his skill and potential.

"He looks very promising," the instructor replied, a note of admiration in his tone. "How did he come by such skill?" he asked, clearly intrigued by Shippo's abilities.

I couldn't help but smile, keeping my true role in Shippo's training a well-guarded secret. "He practiced daily," I responded, offering a vague explanation. It was essential to maintain the illusion that Shippo had developed his skills on his own.

Satisfied with my answer, the instructor nodded. "I'm sure he would be glad to show them to you," I added, hinting at the possibility of a demonstration. The instructor seemed convinced of the outcome of such a display and promptly walked over to another supervisor to discuss the decision to allow Shippo to showcase his skills.

"Lord Sesshomaru. What are you doing here?" I turned around to see the regal figure of Sesshomaru approaching the training grounds. The late afternoon sun cast a golden glow on his silvery hair, making him seem almost ethereal. "I thought you were busy with the preparations for tomorrow." I had known he would seek me out after our previous interaction. Unbeknown to many that it was not his strength and prowess on the battle fields that made Sesshomaru a male worthy of such a standing but is mind. His inquisitivity and curiosity made him a fearsome male but it had also gotten him in quite a bit of trouble when he was younger.

In response, Sesshomaru uttered a dismissive sound, his gaze never wavering from mine. "Hm. Everything has been taken care of," he replied, his voice as cool and aloof as ever. His piercing golden eyes bore into mine, challenge in his gaze. His demeanor brought a chuckle to my lips. Where had he developed such an attitude?

A faint chuckle escaped my lips at his demeanor. Where had he acquired such an attitude? I broke his gaze to glance at Shippo. In silent understanding he nodded his understanding to me. He would stay at the grounds and train. I would retrieve him when I was finished.

With a nonchalant comment, I turned my back on Sesshomaru and began to walk away at a leisurely pace. It was a calculated move, one that I knew would provoke him. As expected, a low growl emanated from his chest, a testament to his annoyance and his inability to ignore the provocation I had presented him. I could feel his presence as he followed me, unable to resist the allure of a challenge.

It was evident that he had sought me out for a reason, and I couldn't help but wonder what had driven him to abandon his duties and confront me in such a manner. Ignoring the tension that hung between us, I maintained my composure and continued to walk with an air of nonchalance. My concealed identity was a fragile balance, and I had to be cautious not to reveal more than I intended.

Finally, as we neared the main hall, I slowed my pace and turned to face Sesshomaru, my expression a blend of curiosity and inquiry. "Lord Sesshomaru," I began, my voice carrying a tone of polite respect. "To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?"

Thanks for reading.

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Till next time,

Katie