Author's Notes: I'm here to deliver chapter 10, which is originally supposed to merge with chapter 9. But since the last chapter was already heavy with content, I decided to put this section into a separate chapter. Hence, this chapter is shorter than usual, though it concludes the first arc of the story.
Also, a huge thank you to all the supporters for this story. Your reviews, questions, feedback, opinions, and even criticisms are always welcomed.
8579: Glad that you enjoyed the last chapter and thanks for the reviews.
Guest: Great to see that you loved the last chapter.
Meech Macko: I honestly didn't expect such a long review about Sesshomaru's character. But first, I would like to ease your concern. I have no intention of bashing any characters in this story. What they do here will be in accordance with their character. Similarly, I don't plan on re-erecting a love triangle as the series did, but with different actors. Thus, there won't be any jealousy going on between Sesshomaru and Inuyasha when it comes to Kikyo. It has been hinted many times that Inuyasha likes Kotori, who is one of the reasons why Inuyasha decides to remain in the west and is merely friends with Kikyo after the last chapter.
And while I won't be debating about what you make of Sesshomaru in the manga, I would like to address that in this fanfic, Sesshomaru is not 'just a gifted and privileged pretty boy with a huge insufferable ego' as you claimed. There're many layers to his character and I plan on exploring them in depth. While I won't call it justified, Sesshomaru does have his reasons for obtaining power. In fact, it would be a major part of the story. And the reason that he needs Tessaiga despite having So'unga is because, according to a prophecy, he needs all three swords. This part is elaborated on at the start of chapter 8.
And now, onto chapter 10.
Please bear with me if I make any mistakes or errors, especially in terms of the language (spelling, grammar, etc.).
Disclaimer: All characters (Kikyo, Sesshomaru, Inuyasha, etc.) from the series Inuyasha that appear in this fanfic rightfully belong to Rumiko Takahashi. I do not own anything regarding their creation; I have Rumiko Takahashi to thank for that.
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Chapter 10-Negotiation in Preparation
"… I cannot accept your invitation, Sesshomaru. We are a world apart from each other."
"You are spewing out nonsense again. There is no void that I, Sesshomaru, cannot cross."
"…You do not understand. I can't. I must stay."
"Listen to me, woman. You will come with me. That's an order."
"…"
His quill snapped in half under the pressure coming from his closed fist. Sesshomaru resisted the urge to growl as he dully inspected the scroll he had laid out before him, spread across the table. On the center of the page was a massive black splotch that grated the daiyoukai's sight.
If that particular recollection wasn't infuriating enough, now Sesshomaru was forced to accept that an hour-worth of writing had gone to waste. He would have to grab a new scroll and start from scratch. His elegant eyebrows furrowed a little and he let the broken pen clutter onto the table. Troubled reflections stormed his mind but his seated form, which radiated with splendor, did not indicate his inner turmoil. To anyone else, he was the usual cold and merciless embodiment of perfection.
Nonetheless, that didn't ease the recurring flashbacks he was having. And to exacerbate his growing list of problems, the recollections would frequently distract him when he least suspected them, almost like they knew exactly when his mind would be most susceptible.
For once, Sesshomaru openly showed his abhorrence by curling his lips into a frown. There was no doubt that the particular incident centuries ago was responsible, though it was perplexing that time did nothing to ease his mind. Try as he might, his encounter with her still weighed on his consciousness. In his opinion, it was a loathsome weakness with no remedy.
"My lord, may I come in?" A tremulous voice asked from the other side of the door, successfully pulling the daiyoukai away from his musings.
"Enter."
No sooner had the words left Sesshomaru's lips, did the door slid open, and in walked a demon clad in white and blue. He had powder-white hair and blood-flecked eyes that assessed Sesshomaru's study room cautiously, as if expecting a sword to materialize from nowhere and attack him. His concern was needless, but his weariness was justified given the overly intense youki emanating from the Lord of the West.
"What business do you have, Gorou?" As expected of Sesshomaru, he wasted no time with greetings and prompted his subordinate to deliver his report. He closed his eyes, allowing his eyelids to obscure his vision from the advisor's wrinkled face. If possible, he wanted nothing to do with Gorou. At present, any of Gorou's usual backstabbing behavior would only darken his already foul mood.
Gorou must have concluded that Sesshomaru's patience was wearing thin today so he wisely got to the point. With his crooked fingers, he reached into the fold of his haori and took out a rolled-up scroll tied loosely with a piece of string.
"Sesshomaru-dono, this is sent from the Southern Land. It's addressed to you, my lord."
That caught Sesshomaru's interest. He opened his eyes and looked at the scroll with his name imprinted in ink. It was not often that he received messages from the other rulers, especially after announcing his ambition to the rest of the world. In that case, the content inside the scroll must be important.
Wordlessly, the daiyoukai gestured for the advisor to hand the scroll over and took it from the outstretched hand. Already impatient, he cut the string with his claw, not bothering to untie it. He unrolled the scroll and his eyes carefully took in every word.
'Circumlocutory, yet noteworthy that the south seeks to renew an old alliance.' The barely distinguishable raise of his eyebrow revealed the faintest hint of interest in Sesshomaru's passive features. As always, his mind was calculating the possible benefits he could obtain from the seemingly preposterous deal. While he had no intention of keeping allies from countries that he would soon trample over, he had to admit that there was a certain appeal that an alliance could offer. Not to mention that the Lord of the South had managed to persuade the Lord of the North with the same deal.
To the other two rulers of the Great Continent, Sesshomaru was no doubt the biggest threat. While tribal wars were not unusual, there hadn't been a full-scale battle between domains for centuries. Sesshomaru was the one who shattered the fragile illusion of peace when he brought his army to invade the east. Given how he annihilated the east, he naturally assumed that the two rulers would take some form of action against him. So it came as a surprise when a proposal for a coalition was delivered to him.
'The Southern Land is dominated by lowly humans, with a simpleton on the throne. Nothing about it fascinates me, though the kokuho, the Vermilion Bird of the South, is an exception. Forming a temporary alliance would have its advantages. While they pose no threat alone, a united force between the north and the south could become a nuisance.' From that perspective, it would benefit him to accept the peace treaty. In addition, the proposal gave the impression of hospitability. Nevertheless, Sesshomaru would have to be a fool to believe it was a genuine offer. It was a mere pretense; there had to be an ulterior motive.
Sesshomaru tossed the scroll offhandedly back to Gorou, who fumbled but caught it nonetheless.
"I shall prepare an appropriate response for the south. But first, you will locate Hibiki," the daiyoukai commanded.
"…As you wish, Sesshomaru-dono." The uncompromising look on Sesshomaru's face warned Gorou that any attempt at insubordination would not be tolerated. Hastily, he obliged and retraced his steps out of his lord's study.
A barely audible scoff could be heard after Gorou shut the door. Sesshomaru barely resisted the urge to scrunch up his nose in disgust. The elder's scent was obnoxiously lingering in his room. The foul stench smelt like greed and corruption, giving the Lord of the West a good indication of Gorou's true nature.
A little while after Gorou's footsteps had faded into the distance, Sesshomaru picked up another set of footfalls. Unlike most visitors entering Sesshomaru's room, the newcomer didn't knock and instead pushed the door open without any vocal warning. Not a moment later, the green-clad form of Hibiki stepped into the room, carrying a stool-sized chest in his arms.
"I heard that you are in need of my assistance." The elder daiyoukai spoke in a modulated and confident tone, with a miniature smile gracing his handsome features.
"I, Sesshomaru, do not require your assistance. Your opinion shall suffice."
"My opinion, you say? Well… please enlighten me," Hibiki said meekly as he opened the chest lid. Taking extreme care, he extracted the contents inside, which consisted of twenty wedged-shaped pieces and a wooden board engraved with rectangular grids. Finding himself a spot in front of the table and directly opposite Sesshomaru, he began setting up the game board he had brought.
"I intend to hold a gathering in the west for the other lords so we may devise a temporary alliance." As expected, Sesshomaru didn't help prepare the game and instead continued the conversation.
Upon hearing that, Hibiki's hand froze in midair. His sharp fingernail absentmindedly ran along the surface of the piece that he held suspended above its designated position, tracing the engraved character. The chancellor's other hand flew to his chin and he gave a light but thoughtful hum.
"Ah, I see." Hibiki eventually shrugged his shoulders before returning to his task with more diligence than before. "I know diplomacy is quite problematic from your standpoint, but I'm pleased you are willing to give it a second thought. In particular, if we are to consider our current condition..."
The deliberate pause was not lost to the Lord of the West as he demanded, "Tell me."
"I'll be frank. I see sullen and grieving warriors. Our forces have yet fully recovered from the last battle, especially those who confronted the miko. A pincer attack from the north and south could result in many casualties."
"Indeed," Sesshomaru admitted, not in the least disconcerted by Hibiki's words. If anything, he was satisfied that the chancellor had reached the same conclusion without needing any elaboration. Communication would certainly be a lot easier if more youkai could be as astute as Hibiki.
"Yes, so I also believe an alliance is our best approach for now." With the last piece organized, Hibiki brushed off the conversation by beckoning Sesshomaru to move a piece. "The first move is yours, my lord."
Sesshomaru gave a barely audible huff that sounded derisive in Hibiki's ears. "Unlike you, I do not have the leisure to indulge in a juvenile game like this."
If there was any indication that Hibiki was offended by Sesshomaru, the chancellor didn't show it in his face or tone. "Perhaps one game with me will change your opinion on shogi, my lord. It's far more entertaining than you give credit for. One can hone their mind in this battle of wits and… may I add that this was one of your father's favorite pastimes."
"I am not my father," was Sesshomaru's curt response.
Still not discouraged, Hibiki gave another encouraging gesture. "I'm aware, my lord. But it is you who I want to challenge. And I should mention that while I'm the one who taught him, your father has won every single game against me… save for the first."
Sesshomaru merely raised an eyebrow. Despite everything, the Lord of the West found himself intrigued at the mention of the great and powerful Inu no Taisho.
Hibiki allowed some time for Sesshomaru to digest the message he wanted to get through before delivering an audacious smirk at his lord. "If I'm not mistaken, you've self-taught yourself how to play shogi in hopes of one day excelling your father in every aspect. Unfortunately, a match against him is no longer possible. In light of that, maybe you can make do with me as your opponent?"
"You dare hint that emerging victorious in your little game would stipulate that I'm superior to my father in this regard." Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes, his tone stern. But whether or not his attitude reflected annoyance or determination was up for speculation.
Hibiki gambled that the latter was more predominant as he coaxed, "One game cannot do any harm, my lord. It could be validation and if not… at least some self-satisfaction."
That seemed to sway Sesshomaru, and what began as a nagging temptation soon amplified to prompt the younger daiyoukai to accept the elder's invitation. A haughty huff left his lips as he made his first move. "Do not underestimate me, Hibiki-san. Know that I shall claim victory."
'Like father, like son.' Sesshomaru's bold declaration brought a nostalgic sensation to Hibiki's heart. Letting a sincere smile grace his features, he said, "We shall see then. Let us see how good you are when playing in my area of expertise."
With Hibiki's words as the trigger for the challenge, both daiyoukai engrossed themselves in their game of shogi. They played with their mindset for victory. In contrast to Sesshomaru's rapid and decisive turns, Hibiki took time and gave each move some consideration. For a while, it appeared his experience in the game was giving the chancellor an advantage against his lord, who was being rather impatient and seemingly reckless with the arrangements of his pieces.
Silence settled comfortably around them, with the occasional contact between the pieces and the game board interrupting the quiet. Eventually, it was Hibiki who spoke first. "My lord, your maneuvers appear to be identical to that of a warrior whose mind is filled with turmoil. Might you share what is on your mind?"
"I believe the Lord of the South holds a hidden agenda beneath his facade of peace. At present, it is evident I have secured control over the east and captured the miko." Sesshomaru's brows narrowed slightly. Never one to his guard down, he deliberated the possible motives that could have spurred the Lord of the South to act now of all times.
"Hmm, I see," Hibiki hummed in assent, moving his piece to barricade Sesshomaru's advance. "So the Lord of the South is the one who put forth the peace proposal. Well, it is a convenient time. There is always the possibility that he seeks to lower your guard while buying some time to plan an effective counterattack against us. Furthermore, if he brings the north into it as well, it could place us in a compromising position."
Not one to be outdone, Sesshomaru countered with another piece and nodded, "Indeed, and the miko will be a central piece."
"… Indeed, she can be analogous to the queen piece in your game. Although, it is worth remembering that she is a potentially dangerous piece to use — a double-edged sword, so to speak. If we are not prudent, the Lord of the South could use her against us. After all, birds of the same feathers flock together."
"If the south does indeed desire the miko, then I shall exploit it. I intend to bait the Lord of the South with what he desires. That's the purpose of the gathering."
"Hmmm, the plan does carry some risk. But it would certainly enable us to evaluate our opponent's moves." Comprehending Sesshomaru's objective, Hibiki briefly contemplated the possibilities of the plan backfiring. There were certain merits involved, such as testing the Lord of the South's true intention and gauging the Lord of the North's trustworthiness. But there were also the chances for potential disasters. In the worst-case scenario, the interaction between the Lord of the South and the miko could promote another conflict. To be honest, the last thing Hibiki wanted was a bloodbath inside the palace.
"And to accomplish that, I will have the miko's full compliance by any means. I will not allow her to become a nuisance. She will serve me, no one else." As if interpreting Hibiki's unspoken concern, Sesshomaru radiated with confidence and the intent to take action based on his words. Nonetheless, the chancellor knew that the younger daiyoukai wasn't trying to reassure him. If anything, Sesshomaru was just being the prideful daiyoukai he was. He was self-assured that he would succeed regardless of how troublesome the miko had proven herself to be.
"Hmmm, I see that you're relentless as always," Hibiki smirked, "I'm beginning to experience feelings of pity for the miko, the more I think about what her life will be like with you."
"Sympathy is a small hurdle, Hibiki-san. You're far too benevolent."
"Please don't discount the underlying potency of feelings, my lord. Might does not always manifest in a physical manner." Hibiki kept that knowing smirk plastered on his face and took his turn. His golden orbs skimmed over his remaining pieces before trailing upwards to regard Sesshomaru's poker-faced features. "Additionally, I would like to remind you that I am capable of displaying both cruelty and mercilessness, if necessary. I refuse to hold back when the success of our plan requires my full attention. I shall not hesitate to make the necessary moves, regardless of how unpleasing they may be."
"Hmph. Utilize the miko as a case in point." Sesshomaru spoke with a challenging tone, though Hibiki was aware it was not a test. Rather, the daiyoukai was discreetly seeking a piece of valuable advice.
"You're able to enforce basic orders to control the miko's actions, correct?" When Sesshomaru nodded to confirm Hibiki's question, the chancellor continued, "In that case, I would make full use of it as soon as possible. To begin, you could apprehend around a dozen human children from settlements nearby to the Eastern palace, in locations where the miko has likely established previous contact. Then issue a series of commands to thoroughly humiliate her. If she attempts to rebel in opposition, you could kill a child in her presence each time, and remind her that there are more in your captivity who are disposable. Surely she will submit willingly after a while, and only then will you tell her your plans for the gathering. She will have no alternative but to play the role you desire."
"Too arduous and inefficient. It sounds reminiscent of deeds Gorou would attempt," scoffed Sesshomaru, "It's more productive if I simply order her to obey."
"Ah, but where's the true degree of cruelty, if you take that approach? It's the hopelessness and despair you would want to reap from her willing submission." Hibiki clicked his tongue to show disapproval. In contrast to his words, his expression was otherwise sincere. While Sesshomaru refused to acknowledge it, it was somewhat unsettling that the chancellor could portray such a sadistic vibe without the slightest shift in facial appearance. "Repetition tends to make humans more competent and accustomed to that particular event. Repeatedly humiliating the miko will wear away her dignity and pride, until her brain learns to accept the reality of her new life. That is when I will invite the other lords to witness her, leashed like a pet. With the renowned miko at our feet and her unfailing obedience, it will surely convey the intended effect of reminding the south of human inferiority before us. Additionally, it should deter possible trickery from the north."
Sesshomaru merely snorted contemptuously, and Hibiki knew that was the end of the subject. The Lord of the West had shared all he wanted to and was no longer in need of his advice. It didn't matter whether or not Sesshomaru accepted his suggestion, because the chancellor knew that he had once again done his job properly. He gave his opinion on the matter when requested.
The two daiyoukai continued their game of shogi until Hibiki cracked a triumphant smirk as he captured one of Sesshomaru's pieces. "It's rare to see you in such high spirit, my lord. You seldom come to me for advice nowadays. Could it be that playing shogi has put you in a good mood?"
Sesshomaru's brows narrowed dangerously, his eyes glued onto the piece being taken out.
"I believe you just lost a piece of significance," commented Hibiki in a voice that seemed to border a taunt. When his opponent didn't respond, he continued, "Do you wish to yield, my lord? I must admit, I am quite proficient when it comes to shogi. There is no shame if you wish to end this game early."
"…Hmph, how foolish. Tsumi!" With a remark that startled Hibiki, Sesshomaru advanced a piece and effectively placed Hibiki in checkmate. His face unrevealing, the Lord of the West gazed at the daiyoukai in front of him. However, there was the faintest hint of satisfaction dancing in his eyes as he absorbed Hibiki's reaction.
Ignorant of Sesshomaru's watchful appraisal, Hibiki found himself staring at the shogi board thunderstruck. He was having difficulties accepting his loss until realization hit him like a rock. During the entire phase of the game, Sesshomaru deliberately gave him a slight lead to lure him into a false sense of security. Naturally, Hibiki suspected Sesshomaru at first, but ultimately dismissed it as his inexperience. It wasn't until Hibiki was driven back into a corner that he realized his mistake. Sesshomaru was purposely, albeit gradually, taking over the center of the board. The last so-called 'slip up' was supposed to divert his attention and he fell for it.
Astonishment eventually melted away and was replaced by a sense of delight. A large grin spread across Hibiki's lips, threatening to split his face into two. Much to Sesshomaru's confusion, the chancellor chuckled earnestly as he silently offered his view to his old friend. 'Touga-san, your son has grown to be a fine daiyoukai. It seems that my concern was unnecessary. I'm now certain that any of Gorou's schemes will be thwarted by Sesshomaru, so long as he continues to resort to his wits.'