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.
Author's Notes: Happy Halloween, everyone! Although this chapter has no horror aspect, I'm glad I managed to give an update today, before the end of October. After all, I did announce that I'll try to get a new chapter published at least once per month. So I was pretty proud of the accomplishment despite having my attention diverted because of my other stories, namely the translation of a SessKik story called First Sight, Yet Nostalgic.
As you probably noticed from the chapter's title, this part of the story is actually split into two. After drafting, the scene became much longer than I initially planned. Hence, I decided to have two smaller parts instead of one with 10K+ words. So heads up for a mini cliffhanger, I guess?
A big thank you to everyone who provided a review. It's great hearing you guys talk about SessKik and noting the events that are happening.
fabelliot: Here's another update and I hope that you'll enjoy it as I delve deeper into characters like the Lord of the South. I'm happy that you're finding it interesting. :)
8679: Thank you for your continuous support. Another freshly prepared chapter and I hope you'll like it.
sastra: Have a pleasing end of October to you too. I'm honestly flattered that you're giving my story such high praise. It really does encourage and motivate me, so thank you so much. OOC has always been a thing that I'm very sensitive to when I'm writing. Thus, it's very reassuring to hear from you that I'm handling the characters in an accurate manner thus far.
yami2703: I'm not too sure if that's a good or bad wow. But Inuyasha sure is pretty rough yet impressive, isn't he?
happycookiie: Thanks for all the love given to this story. Glad that you like it.
Meech Macko: Your reviews sure are constructive as they make me ponder deeper into the characters' actions and motives. Thank you.
Yep, Kotori is dead-loyal when it comes to Sesshomaru. Inuyasha doesn't know the whole story behind Kotori's reasons either so that'll be something to expand upon when I do dig deeper into their relationship. As for Inuyasha himself, I'm happy that you noticed the subtle differences. I, of course, will elaborate more on his upbringing in the future. But for now, you're correct in that he is more observant and patient than his brusquer counterpart in the canon.
There's no doubt that Sesshomaru, despite his supremacy, still has a long way to go before reaching his father's level in terms of being a ruler. He is definitely going to get his character development in this regard, though I do plan for it to be a steady and realistic progression.
I won't say much about the Lord of the South to avoid spoilers. And regarding your confusion about Kikyo's actions, I've actually made the reason vague on purpose as the majority is somewhat told from Kagewaki's perspective. You'll get a better understanding after this chapter though, as Kikyo will reflect on what happened. And if not, I've included a little note at the end that pulls apart the metaphors of their conversation they have to explain the exchange that actually went down.
Please bear with me if I make any mistakes or errors, especially in terms of the language (spelling, grammar, etc.).
Without further ado, I bring you chapter 13!
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Chapter 13-Questionable Intent I
'How did it escalate to this?' The chancellor of the west, Hibiki, did not know what to think about the situation before him.
The mask of equanimity never waned from his fair features. To anyone else, Hibiki was the embodiment of composure. However, the truth contradicted the outward pretense, for the experienced chancellor of the west was at a loss for what action he should take. It was taking every ounce of willpower to resist quirking an eyebrow at the sheer absurdity he was witnessing.
A few feet before him were Inuyasha and Koga, locked in a heated brawl. The two young men traded a barrage of claws and kicks, with additional insults thrown into the mix.
"What's the matter? Is that all you can do, you mutt?" A tangible contempt swelled from Koga's voice as he lashed out with a foot.
"Wha—?" Inuyasha growled but responded instinctively, his legs crouching down to escape a crushing blow to the face. His body muscles were rigid, and his gritting teeth gave his outward irritation all the more visibility. In retaliation, he swung his claws in a broad, hissing arc. "I'm no mutt!"
The hanyou's movement was faster than Koga wanted to give credit for, though his agility guaranteed a swift dodge. The Lord of the North back-flipped in midair, then slid across the grass to distance himself from his opponent.
"You're right, that'd be an insult to canines. You scratch like a kitten," Koga taunted, derision plain in his tone as he jabbed a thumb toward the ground.
"You won't be laughing once I rip you apart!" Flexing his claws, Inuyasha pushed his toes into the ground and launched forward at the smirking wolf youkai. Although he lacked murderous intent, his golden orbs glistened with kindled vigor that crackled like a bonfire.
While Inuyasha and Koga continued their exchange, Hibiki looked on as he tried to analyze the situation. The first realization was that there was no immediate need to interfere. As violent as it seemed, both combatants were in no apparent danger of losing their lives. Perhaps it was far too intense to be called a fracas, though Hibiki believed that mattered not so long as they kept their killing intent dormant and no youki was involved.
In all honesty, it was difficult to tell if they were friendly rivals or foes. From one standpoint, they traded verbal insults as well as physical attacks with aggression. Yet, on the other hand, they seemed to be enjoying the workout, having found someone who shared the same passion for an old-fashioned knuckle brawl.
'No discord, no concord. I suppose the scenario is a good depiction of the idiom. This would be beneficial for them.' One glimpse and Hibiki knew that regardless of the outcome, both Koga and Inuyasha would gain valuable experience from studying each other's movements.
Several more minutes filtered away under the warm sunlight and there was no indication of a pause from either fighter.
So much energy — Hibiki supposed that was the strength of youth. For the briefest of seconds, the chancellor was reminded of his declining strength. Although he could theoretically resume training and regain the potency he had in his early days, he dismissed the idea without much of a second thought.
Immortality often created a false sense of security amongst the demon kind, where many measured strength and authority based on experience. That was a mistake from Hibiki's perspective, as the demons would never allow the next generation a chance at the spotlight while under the impression that they were unsurpassable. In that sense, Hibiki thought that humans were less arrogant and more rational. As they were temporal beings, they were well aware of their limited time and would give blessings to their children willingly when the stage arrived. Whereas youkai tended to hog onto their glories like a dragon guarding its treasure, humans allowed one legend to end, only for a new one to start. It was how their legacies grew and developed in everlasting glory, and it was a form of eternity that fascinated the chancellor more than physical immortality.
'Because we cannot die by natural means, we deem ourselves superior to those bound to time. However, that can lead to self-assurance and result in many youkai being led astray by their pride. Humans are much more inclined to collaborate in order to overcome obstacles than us youkai, especially since they know that unity brings greater power. Now, if only Sesshomaru can learn to appreciate this fact, then I would have no need to fear an early retirement.'
Coming out of his musings, the elderly daiyoukai's unfailing ears captured some more dialogues that made his eyebrows gather in a just decipherable wrinkle. With no consensus to conclude their argument, the next few lines that reached him crashed his insouciance.
"Come on mutt," Koga beckoned, "Are you out of steam already?"
"Pah, as if I'll drop out before you scrawny wolf." Not short on a retort, Inuyasha's body itched for action, though he forcefully held himself back. Instead of pouncing at the wolf demon, the hanyou decided a change of pace would settle their seemingly unending brawl. With that in mind, he took an offensive stance, his legs slightly apart and his right arm gripping Tessaiga's hilt. "Let's take this more seriously and bring things up a notch. I heard that you have a Gora-something that can match my Tessaiga. Let's see it, scrawny wolf!"
"Mutt, who do you think you are? Goraishi is our clan's treasured heirloom. Don't go belittling it by comparing it with your rusty blade when you know nothing about its power!" A look of annoyance immediately crossed Koga's face. Despite knowing how petty it was to get infuriated at a hanyou, who obviously understood nothing, the Lord of the North couldn't swallow the urge to prove him wrong. Call it emotional, but he refused to allow someone to insult the treasure that once belonged to his great ancestors, the youkai who founded the clan he called family.
Koga flared his youki and gathered his power on his right hand. He unclenched his fists and within seconds, equipped the Goraishi under a shower of golden rays that illuminated its magnificence form. Joint to Koga with a metallic wristband with five small chains stretching outwards on his fingers, the weapon was a saw-tooth claw with extensions that enclosed each fingertip. The Lord of the North flexed his claws, and a crackle of electricity flickered temporarily yet theatrically.
Aside from that, nothing else changed in terms of physical appearance. However, Inuyasha could now detect an ample amount of pressure eluding from Koga's confident figure. Disinclined to be outmatched, the silver-haired swordsman pulled out his priced blade, allowing Tessaiga to regain its glorious form once unsheathed.
The invisible wind that whispered to his sword was only audible to Inuyasha's ears, though surprisingly, it wasn't the only sound that could be heard. The crackling sizzle that originated from Koga's Goraishi simultaneously entered his eardrums.
Inuyasha narrowed his eyes and released the surge of youki within Tessaiga.
"Eat my Kaze no—"
"Take this! Go—"
"Stop!"
Three voices rang out, though only the last one proclaimed primacy with its authoritative might.
Inuyasha and Koga halted, their arms pulled back in mid-swing as they turned to look at Hibiki with mild bemusement. While the chancellor spoke no louder than necessary, there was an undeniable quality of supremacy from that one word alone. The chancellor's voice was cool but stern and for a split second, it resembled a grandfather chiding his grandchildren for misbehavior.
"What do you want, old man?" Not one for reverence, Inuyasha recovered from his initial confusion as irritation swept into his voice. Nonetheless, he lowered his Tessaiga and allowed it to return to its rusty untransformed state.
"Now, now. I understand you have your pride to cling onto but please understand that wielding weapons here will cause collateral damage." Taking gradual steps, Hibiki stepped in between Koga and Inuyasha, both hands raised in a gesture of a pause. Even now, there was no killing intent amongst them, though Hibiki was averse to having property damage, especially since his beloved archive was practically within half a mile's radius. "If you must settle this, I propose a game of wits."
"Hell, no!" Inuyasha shook his head, causing silver locks to swirl. "Shogi is for old geezers who're bored out of their minds. I ain't got the time for that."
If his brusque words offended Hibiki, then the chancellor did not indicate it as he kept an amicable smile pasted on his face. "Patience is vital, young Inuyasha. A good game of Shogi can teach you that valuable lesson."
Dumbfounded, Koga did not know what to think. It was no secret that Sesshomaru was deemed heartless, so he assumed that his inability to express emotions would have rubbed off on his subordinates. However, the temperamental hanyou and the amicable chancellor bore out another fact about the west. More specifically, Koga could now comprehend how the west was still lively despite being ruled by a lord who had no tolerance for blunders.
In the next instant, a torrent of rushing youki flooded his senses. A sudden cold air chilled his spine, stabbing into his back like a thousand needles. Impulsively, Koga swiveled his body towards the source, and would have raised Goraishi had he not recognized the figure exuding overwhelming pressure.
"Sesshomaru," Koga uttered, plain surprise etched on his face as he stared. His mind tried to fathom why the Inu daiyoukai would make an appearance. Having been told that the lords' meeting was postponed due to a private conversation between the other two lords, the disgruntled Lord of the North was only appeased once Hibiki voluntarily offered to provide him a tour of the west. With the purpose of reconnaissance in mind, Koga chose to overlook Sesshomaru's lack of hospitability and settled with Hibiki's company.
And now, here was Sesshomaru, appearing all pompous and completely ignoring him while scanning the surrounding. Koga's teeth clicked together in apparent frustration. Looking around, he noticed that neither Hibiki nor Inuyasha cared that Sesshomaru offered no greeting, though the two studied their lord with a measured and wary look respectively.
'Am I just being too sensitive about his egotistic attitude?' Based on their fight, Koga assumed that Inuyasha was the type who would openly voice his discontent at a moment like this, though the hanyou seemed to be interpreting something serious from Sesshomaru's impassive yet assertive countenance.
"What is it this time, Sesshomaru?" It was the same impatient tone that Inuyasha would frequently use, but there was a trace of urgency outlined.
'What's going on here? Why am I the only one out of the loop?' Still, Koga kept his dissatisfaction unannounced and unequipped Goraishi. Unless he or the north was personally involved, there was really no need to pry and cause a scene.
"Tell me, where is Kagewaki?" Since the person of his interest was not present, Sesshomaru demanded without as much as a fluctuation in his voice.
"I have not seen him all morning, my lord," Hibiki answered. Mental alarm bells burst out warnings of great magnitude to the chancellor, whose perceptiveness gave him an edge when it came to decoding the subtle difference in the Lord of the West's demeanor. Although Sesshomaru's face revealed nothing, the eyes that flickered around dangerously were glistening with the undercurrent of vexation.
Sesshomaru wasn't simply galled, he was incandescent.
And the only reasonable deduction Hibiki could extract was that it had something to do with the Lord of the South, Kagewaki. It was no news that the Lord of the West abhorred humans, though the chancellor wondered just what grave insolence Kagewaki committed to eliciting anger from the usually emotionless Sesshomaru.
"Huh?" Inuyasha sniffed the air, his face contorting into a mass of confusion. "I got his scent last night… Where did it go? I don't smell him."
Surprise flashed on Hibiki's face when he confirmed Inuyasha's words with a discreet whiff. Nothing. All traces of smell that could provide a trail to Kagewaki were gone. If the daiyoukai did not know better, he would've assumed that the Lord of the South had left the Western Province. However, that would imply that he had left after the conversation with Sesshomaru, which was impossible for the human to do considering the time frame.
'Vile vermin.' Outwardly, Sesshomaru stood with the refined posture of true nobility, though he was fuming on the inside. His hand reached for So'unga's hilt out of habit, only to swipe empty air. He dropped his suspended arm, his fingers twitching irritably under his long sleeve. In his haste to locate the Lord of the South, he failed to recall that he had left both swords in his chamber as a show of faith under Hibiki's persistent request.
But his rare act of generosity was impinged by a mortal who did not understand his place in the Western Province. Kagewaki had given his word the night before that he would oblige to the regulations of the west, as in he would not wander off without an escort. Foreigners, regardless of their rank, must be assigned a guide. Not only was that for safety measures, but it also prevented any covert work from being conducted behind the ruler's back. Still that wasn't the decisive factor that irked Sesshomaru, but rather the fact that Kagewaki managed to hide undetected.
As someone who would accept nothing but perfection, Sesshomaru did not permit himself to linger around. Seeing that Kagewaki wasn't with Koga, he immediately concluded that the former had no current plans for the latter. Just what was Kagewaki's goal? One possibility filtered through the logical reasoning of his mind. Judging by how the Lord of the South behaved, combined with the report that Kotori gave last night, there was no doubt that could cloud the daiyoukai's rationale.
Ignoring the bombardment of inquiries he was getting from Inuyasha and Koga, Sesshomaru heightened his sense of smell to locate the miko. He spun left and a sweet fragrance drifted in, predominant with the flow of the wind that caused his long tresses of silver to dance behind him. Noting the direction, he deduced that she was on the archery field.
How typical of her.
With that, the Lord of the West took off with a surge of youki, leaving Inuyasha and the others to watch.
"Hey! Get back here, Sesshomaru! You didn't answer me!" Raising his fist with annoyance on his countenance, Inuyasha could only watch as the daiyoukai's back disappeared into the sky, his luxuriant hair and flurry pelt trailing along behind.
"It would appear he is heading for the archery fields. Something must be pressing," commented Hibiki, as though the matter that had piqued Sesshomaru was a daily occurrence.
"What's on the archery fields?" Koga asked casually as he repressed his curiosity from being made public by his tone. Despite being unable to comprehend the situation, the wolf demon felt something important was going on.
'Archery fields… Kotori and Kikyo are there in the mornings!' Apprehension crept through Inuyasha's body and he missed Hibiki's response to Koga. Realizing that his instincts were indeed veracious, he was overcome with the impulse to follow Sesshomaru. And that was exactly what he did, though not before shouting out to Hibiki behind his shoulder as he scurried past.
"Old man, I'm going after Sesshomaru! You stay here and take care of the scrawny wolf… And maybe go and gather up some men if you can!"
Unexpectedly, Hibiki showed no sign of being offended by Inuyasha's commanding tone. Instead, the elderly daiyoukai nodded briefly in a humble manner usually reserved for the Lord of the West. "I suppose that's fine… if that is what you want."
In the span of a few seconds, three consecutive arrows soared in a straight arc and lodged their steel shaft at the center of the intended mark with deadly accuracy.
Wasting no time to appreciate her handiwork, Kikyo took another arrow from the quiver on her back and notched it. She was pouring all her concentration into her action to liberate her mind from unnecessary emotions. Her lips were pursed and her eyebrows were knitted together in a frown, giving the impression of someone venting out hoarded frustration on the circular target that was on the receiving end of not only her projectiles but also her withering glare. Truly there was no rebuttal if someone were to question her behavior, for she was indeed irritated at Sesshomaru for using her as bait. But more importantly, she felt helplessly frustrated that her body was so susceptible to his manipulation.
"Heed my command, miko. You are my property and you shall answer only to me. You will refute all endeavors for your cooperation." Condescension at its finest, that was what Sesshomaru's order sounded in Kikyo's ears. No, not just hers. The miko was certain that anyone would share her opinion once subjected to the daiyoukai's vexing attitude. 'That arrogant youkai! Some nerve he has!'
Two more projectiles dug into the wooden board.
Compared to his previous commands, the one last night was far more complex and despite everything, Kikyo still could not find a means of resisting its control without suffering the repercussions. Generally speaking, the capability of the Beads of Subjugation depended on three elements — the amount of magic implanted inside each bead, the pain tolerance of the wearer, and the complexity of the commands issued. Leaving the first two aside, the last factor gave Kikyo some hope that she still possessed a certain degree of freedom. Nonetheless, that optimistic belief was stampeded on during last night, from the moment that her spiritual powers obediently reclined to dissolve the kekkai despite her mind's protest.
"Kikyo-sama. Kikyo-sama."
A gentle tap on the shoulder and a collected voice released her from her reflections as Kikyo blinked twice to redirect focus. She noticed Kotori from her peripheral vision. At some point, the demoness had removed herself from the bench and approached her. The realization brought the faintest shadow of a frown to crease her brows. As her attentiveness was guided to a single point, namely the target that she imagined was Sesshomaru's face, she had not noticed how close Kotori was until she was right beside her. It was fortunate that the swordswoman bore no ill intention, unlike most demons in the west.
"Yes?" Unwinding all the tension in her arms, the raven-haired woman lowered her bow and slid a look toward Kotori in expectation.
"I was wondering if you need a break. You've already emptied two quivers," Kotori commented and pointed at the targets lined up on the right for emphasis. As she continued to hurl projectiles across the field, Kikyo gradually moved from one target to the next. "You know, they will be troublesome to pull out later and I am on a time constraint. I'll have to get it done before Waramaru-sama's practice session."
"I did not think you are the kind to be bothered by the amount of workload," remarked Kikyo as she returned the arrow to its quiver. There was a soft light of mischief in her mahogany pools as she gazed at her friend. Even though she hadn't admitted it vocally, the divined smile that graced her features left no doubt that she had accepted Kotori and Inuyasha's friendship after her heartfelt conversation with the latter. It was an empyrean expression unseen in public, reserved for those she trusted with her heart.
"I'm quite capable of handling the ordinary workload, but I'm not so keen on superfluous labor." Rather than trying to deny that she was a workaholic, Kotori instead tried to point out what she thought was a subtle yet important difference.
"A fair point," the miko nodded in acknowledgment as she mindlessly ran a finger down her bowstring. Her index finger had just caressed the tip of her weapon when a familiar voice rang out.
"Ah, there you are. I've been looking everywhere for you."
Two heads turned concurrently towards the speaker, with brown and black tresses being tugged playfully by the breeze. Their eyes immediately focused on the lone figure sauntering towards them.
Long wavy black hair, perhaps rivaling Kikyo's in length, fluttered against the sides of his handsome facial appearance. Under normal circumstances, it would've become a tangled mess, yet it was miraculously kept in rhythm with the flow of the wind. If onlookers were to describe the sight with one word, then perchance the most appropriate word was simply 'tantalizing'.
The man, who wore purple garments that endorsed a sense of elegance and mystery, was instantly identified by Kotori as none other than the Lord of the South, Kagewaki.
"Lord Kagewaki." In her ears ringing were Inuyasha's words of caution from yesterday, though Kotori still allowed formality to take precedence as she greeted the young lord. In any case, it wasn't as though she could abandon her manners and turn to leave. Inuyasha might've gone with that alternative, but Kotori was a woman of protocol. It was the way she was taught since childhood.
"Good morning, Lord Kagewaki." Kikyo brushed a stray lock of hair behind her ear and acknowledged the Southern Lord with a small bow of the head.
"Spare me the dramatics, Kikyo." Without so much as glancing at Kotori's way, Kagewaki dropped all pretexts of politeness and strode forward with the purpose. Red eyes, now dripping crimson and lined with blue eyeshadows, drilled into the woman's mahogany iris as if the answer to all he sought lived within.
Taken aback by his directness as well as the inhumane appearance of his eyes, Kikyo cast a quick glimpse at her companion, who wore a bemused look. Mildly concerned that Kotori would interpret Kagewaki's less-than-subtle words, the miko mimicked the way that the demoness' brows quirked upwards. "Please calm your heart, Lord Kagewaki. You are mistaken, I'm sure."
Despite everything, Kagewaki found himself wearing a reproachful sneer. "Am I not the silver lining for your intricate woes? It is hard to believe that you would be so foolish as to deny my assistance."
"Our exchange concluded last night, Lord Kagewaki. I believe it is no longer necessary to pursue that topic." A small grimace twisted Kikyo's features for the briefest of seconds before indifference took over.
There was something demonic in those crimson orbs fixed on her, and his facial visage had morphed into something far more sinister. There was no lingering smile, nor was the mask of benevolence plastered onto his face. Despite the dissimilarity between the person she was seeing and the Kagewaki from last night, Kikyo instinctively knew that this was the true Lord of the South. 'He is finally showing his true colors... but why now?'
Nonetheless, what was perturbing was that apart from the sense of non-human vibe Kikyo was getting from the man, there was neither a trace of demonic aura nor human life emanating from him. For a miko who took pride in her sensory abilities, that mere fact made her uneasy. Seldom could such a phenomenon occur unless it was the work of some magical artifact. 'I see. Could it be…?'
"Ah yes. That is what you think. However, I alone will decide when I'm through with our deal," said Kagewaki, with one hand suspended in midair as he casually rubbed his thumb against the side of his index finger. "Yes, indeed. This will be my final offer to you. Reconsider your options and choose wisely."
"My apologies, Lord Kagewaki. But you seem to be under the wrong impression. You can take my words last night for what they are worth." It didn't matter if Kagewaki was aware that her choice during the banquet was influenced by the Beads of Subjugation. Her intuition was on high alert. Just like she couldn't lay her heart bare to Sesshomaru, she knew that to trust Kagewaki was akin to being tied up and tossed to a pack of hungry wolves.
Her words were probably out of his expectations since he quickly widened his eyes and stopped the motion with his fingers. As the surprise morphed into mockery, wild guffaws originated from his throat. "Hahaha! Kikyo, you truly are a piece of work! You have not changed one bit, despite all these years!"
'Don't tell me… this man!' Unconsciously, Kikyo's grip tightened on her bow. But before she could provide a rejoinder that could cease Kagewaki's gibberish, Kotori's voice cut in.
"Lord Kagewaki. I may not comprehend your objective, but please stop the harassment. I do believe you have a conference to attend. And more importantly," the demoness paused and allowed suspense to hang in the air until Kagewaki's laughter died down. "I thought you are well aware that you are forbidden to roam around the west without a guide. The punishment for treason is severe."
Not in the least threatened by the demoness, the Lord of the South lazily regarded her with half-lidded eyes that hinted annoyance. "Ah, and you were so humble. It's difficult to believe that you're the same person as yesterday."
"How, how did you?" Shock filtered through Kotori's face as the meaning of his words sunk in. While her disguise was not perfect, she thought she had managed to deceive the visitors during the banquet. Perhaps a youkai of the west would've identified her, but she couldn't imagine how a human with an unenhanced scent of smell could've seen through her cover. Her eyes narrowed. 'Unless…'
"Overthinking it is gratuitous. It's exactly as you speculate," Kagewaki smirked, giving a disturbing impression of someone capable of reading Kotori's mind. "How insightful... and quite like myself, if I may add. I suppose this is your true self then, and yesterday was nothing more than an elaborated ruse."
Kotori displayed discontent by knitting her brows and curling her lips into a frown. "I'm afraid I must dispute, Lord Kagewaki. I am just as myself as I was yesterday. I'm merely a bird that molts to adapt to whatever role Sesshomaru-sama desires."
"So, someone without a preset identity? What a pitiful and foolish soul."
"You're wrong. No matter how many different colored feathers I grow and shed, I'm still the same underneath. For I am Kotori, servant of the mighty Lord of the West, Sesshomaru-sama, and anyone who dares hinder him shall fall by my blade!" With a theatrical announcement, Kotori tapped the Inu crest on her scabbard, as if to reaffirm her loyalty towards her lord. Even though some considered her unwavering devotion to be bizarre, only she understood the sense of self-worth it bestowed upon her. Without that devotion, she was just a piece abandoned because of her disability.
Although Kikyo considered Kotori's words to be overdramatic, she had to admit that the demoness held impressive fidelity to the Lord of the West. The reason remained a mystery to her and she wasn't given the time to mull over the possibilities as Kagewaki made measured steps towards her until they were but a foot away from each other.
"Petty words for a doll controlled by Sesshomaru. Kikyo, don't you agree?" When the miko offered no remark, Kagewaki continued without bothering to acknowledge the deadly glare Kotori pitted him with. "I have often heard humans refer to this as fate or destiny. Only the weak utter such nonsense. It is different for the truly powerful: they create this so-called destiny with their own hands. Alas, both of you are not as such, but rather the opposite. You have no true will, and are nothing more than a puppet manipulated by strings hidden from sight!"
His tone made an abrupt turn for menace as thin threads of spider web materialized from behind him and latched themselves around Kikyo and Kotori. Caught off guard, the women were unable to escape from the sticky net of silver that trapped them in a cold, lifeless embrace, like the skeletal fingers of a dead man.
"What is th—mff!" Kotori's objection was barely expressed before layers of web clamped her mouth shut, effectively preventing her from producing anything intelligible. There was no time for her to make use of her hands before they were bound tightly together. The silver threads continued their assault on her body until mobility was no longer feasible, all her appendages secured. With a muffled grunt, the demoness lost her balance and hit the ground in an undignified mess.
"Mff! Mfff!" The female warrior helplessly raised her head and saw that Kikyo was faring no better, though Kagewaki was creative enough with their arrangements. Unlike Kotori, who felt like she was a sweet rice dumpling steamed in turmeric leaves, Kikyo was held in midair by a large spider web. Additional threads cut into her wrists and ankles, keeping her in a spread-eagled position. Or as close to that position as the shackles on her would allow.
"What is the meaning of this?" asked Kikyo, a hint of genuine perplexity surfacing. Her right hand twitched slightly as she tested the strength of her bondage. To her dismay, the threads winded up tighter around her limb and she was forced to bite back a hiss when they cut into her flesh, letting out a trickle of blood. Being gentle was obviously the last thing on Kagewaki's mind as what held her in place was firmer compared to what Sesshomaru did. With that in mind, Kikyo knew that the bow in her right hand, which she had managed to hold onto, was rendered useless.
"What's wrong, Kikyo? Weren't you expecting it?" There was an unreadable intent in his crimson orbs as he fixed his sight on the line of red trailing down Kikyo's arm. Brushing the small wound with his index finger, he then placed it close to his bottom lip before gingerly touching the coated blood with the tip of his tongue.
"Release me." His cold touch sent a shiver down her spine, though she concealed her discomfort with a fierce look. Her forbearance breaching its limits, she called forth her spiritual powers in an attempt to free herself from what were obviously restrictions made of youki. Sparks of violet danced on her skin, but before she could discharge the energy outwards, she was forcefully halted by Kagewaki's dark warning.
"Don't bother. As long as my spider web connects you with that servant girl," Kagewaki paused and gestured towards the trapped Kotori with his chin. "There can be no escape… unless you are willing to purify her along with my threads."
"Mff!" Being gagged by the layers of webs prevented Kotori from making a comprehensible sentence. As her ears were unbound, she could hear the threat that made Kikyo flinch. Frustrated, the demoness wiggled with aggression as the side of her boots scrapped against the grassy floor in a futile attempt to free herself.
A wave of helplessness crashed into Kikyo. Yet, it could not stop the glare she sent Kagewaki's way. Her eyes glowered with pure intensity. Anything was better than vulnerability. As a woman who loathed being feebly weakened, she tried to conceal her discomfort behind a scornful façade that burned with disgust.
"What do you hope to accomplish?" she asked.
In no way did her tone resemble someone under his mercy, Kagewaki's face stiffened momentarily before he ignored her question. He placed his free hand on her face, caressing her neck with a finger. He trailed his finger over her skin, his fingertip brushing her pulse. Her body stiffened instinctively, and he savored the sensation. Pleased, he closed in on her until he was nearly touching her ear with the bottom of his lip as he whispered, "You know. Not all men take rejection kindly, especially not one who has experienced it once before, Kikyo… no, Saint Hijiri."
For the first time in seemingly forever, Kikyo felt undying horror constrict her lungs, compelling her to take a sharp intake of breath. The alias that should never be associated with her name was uttered and the secret she kept for many years was exposed by a man who did not belong to the east. That reinforced her speculation. 'We've met before, somewhere in the remoteness of the past… Although such an encounter is impossible, unless the one who stands before me is nothing more than an imposter. '
"Reveal your true form, shapeshifter." A frown materialized on her features, and she made an effort to appear composed despite the turmoil raging within her heart. "And tell me... what have you done with the real Kagewaki?"
Even though it was clear that Kikyo was at a disadvantage, the woman still had the nerve to appear as though she had the ascendancy. In all honesty, 'Kagewaki' did not know whether to be impressed or irritated. But the latter was definitely more predominant as he pulled his head away from Kikyo to reveal a face contorted by a menacing smile. "Impressive, Kikyo. It has become apparent that captivity did not dull your senses. Heh, I will reward your perception with the answers you seek. You can call me Naraku… and by that name, I can assure you that Kagewaki is still alive. At least, according to those I've fooled into thinking I'm him."
"How despicable," Kikyo muttered darkly, searching her memories. Finding no faces that matched the given name, her eyes lit up with a tiny spark of bewilderment for a millisecond before they once again became shrouded with dark clouds of odium. Out of habit, she tightened the grip on her bow until her knuckles went white.
"Despicable? Now that brings me back. You said the same thing to a foolish mortal who yearned for you to such a degree that he offered his body to a host of demons." In contrast to his words, not a trace of nostalgia could be found in his voice as he continued, "Granted, I do not share the same sentiment leaking from the heart of that simple fool… but I can momentarily indulge his lust if it means obtaining the jewel in your safeguard."
"You…" Kikyo didn't try to hide the astonishment written on her face as she stared at Naraku, aghast. Bewilderment could not begin to describe the torrents of emotion overwhelming her. As shocked as she was, she didn't react in time when Naraku inched his face closer.
Out of nowhere, streaks of green zigzagged through the air around Kikyo. With widened eyes, Naraku leaped back to distance himself from the onslaught of oozing youki. Now safely positioned, he could only watch as the bindings that held Kikyo were shredded to pieces with ease.
"Sesshomaru... you're punctual." Amidst the suffocating waves of youki careered towards him, Naraku couldn't help but chuckle nervously upon feeling the full force of incontestable strength. The mass concentration of demonic aura engulfed the entire area, generating a spine-chilling sensation.
For a brief moment, even the stone-like exterior of Sesshomaru's golden irises conveyed his inner thoughts. The mask of composure was gone, revealing the unbridled rage within. His brows were clenched together, and his lips were turned downwards like the edge of a blade.
Imposingly daunting, the daiyoukai had one arm wrapped around Kikyo's waist, pulling her stiffened body close to his side. His other arm was posed in front of him, and with a flick of his wrist, the green whip that had freed the miko retracted and disappeared with a sizzle.
"Why are you livid?" Being the target of Sesshomaru's murderous look was a challenge that could make the bravest of the brave cower in terror. Discomfort gnawed Naraku's insides and he felt the base of his throat dry up, as if completely scorched by the sun. Despite everything, he upheld his brave frontage. "I thought it was impossible for a mere mortal to elicit such human display of emotions from the apathetic Lord of the West."
"Don't you understand… that I, Sesshomaru, bear no tolerance for fools who seek to blight what belongs to me?" Rather than pay Naraku's taunt any heed, Sesshomaru returned an inquiry that required no answer. His eyes caught the tiny movement of a crease on Kikyo's forehead, though he left her be since she made no other movement. For once, the usually irksome miko was cooperative, allowing the daiyoukai to direct his whole attention towards the gallant nuisance who soured his mood.
"Is that all? It would appear that our proposed agreement has collapsed prior to being formed. But, it is no matter. If your intention is to extract a fitting punishment upon this body, then what is holding you back?" Naraku displayed a mocking gesture as he stretched his arms wide, remaining unfazed even when the silver-haired daiyoukai flexed his claw. "Go ahead and attack, Sesshomaru. If you don't hurry, my reinforcement will foil your endeavor."
As if on cue, countless footsteps hurried towards them and prompted Sesshomaru's eyes to flicker left and right as he assessed the demon slayers, their weapons drawn and encircling him. Although they outnumbered him by a dozen or more, not a speck of concern could be seen on the daiyoukai's features. If anything, their unwanted appearance only goaded him, for he did not want to bother with feeble pests.
"Hehehe… Sesshomaru, your injudicious decision to step into my trap without any support and weapon will lead to your demise." A smile plastered on the Lord of the South's face, an expression that was close to being enraptured by delight. Now that he was positioned safely behind his subordinates, he found his bravery returning at full force.
Sesshomaru offered no reply, though his condescending glare spoke volume. Tossing Kikyo unceremoniously onto the ground next to Kotori, he moved and positioned himself in front, all the while deliberately obstructing the miko from Naraku's view. He cast a glance at the demoness, who was still on the ground despite having been freed along with Kikyo. "Now, how long do you intend to lie around?"
"…Ah! My lord! No, I'm up!" His authoritative voice snapped Kotori out of her trance-like state. Spitting out the last strand of the spider webs, she hastily climbed back onto her feet and took a defensive stance in front of Kikyo.
Satisfied that the demoness had recovered, Sesshomaru left her to defend Kikyo while he took the offensive against his foe. With a graceful leap, he soared over several heads and dived down on Naraku with a raised claw. Leaving a momentary flash, he flew at him like a comet.
Although Naraku predicted Sesshomaru's intention, his movement was faster than expected. In less than a heartbeat, the daiyoukai had closed in the space between them. Naraku blocked with his sword, aided more by reflex than sight. His blade shattered on impact and he barely managed to roll away from the sharp claws that would've otherwise shredded him into pieces.
"You fool. Don't think you could ever escape my grasp! Dokkasou!" Like greased lightning, the daiyoukai flicked his wrist and manifested his signature whip. The green lash of energy whisked through the air, and looped itself repetitively around Naraku's neck, depriving him of oxygen.
Naraku's hand flew towards the whip as he struggled in vain. Seeing that, Sesshomaru was once again reminded of how feebly weak mortals were. Without an exception, the daiyoukai knew that a human would most certainly die from a snapped neck.
And that was exactly why he gave an abrupt tug and watched with nonchalance as his whip constricted…
More Author's Notes: Just in case the exchange between Kagewaki/Naraku and Kikyo isn't very clear since they were using analogies and metaphors to keep things elusive, I've decided to explain what actually happened.
Initially, Kikyo has no intention of interacting with anyone during the banquet. That all changes when Kagewaki approaches her and Sesshomaru subsequently disperses her kekkai. To avoid Sesshomaru's attention, Kagewaki uses the bellflower seeds to represent Kikyo, which Kikyo soon comprehends and tags along.
Hence, when Kagewaki asks, "With all that in mind, what do you say? The outcome intrigues me as much as your opinion. Will they become desiccated and perish? Or will they brave the harsh storms common only to the west?" he is actually questioning if Kikyo will be able to handle herself in the west, with enemies around every corner.
Kikyo responds with "And what measures will you take if I deem them incongruous with the west?" which is her inquiring about Kagewaki's next move. If she is truly unable to defend herself from these youkai in the west, then what does he plan to do?
"If that be the case, I would take them to the south, where they will most certainly flourish and be at their utmost quality. What do you think?" is Kagewaki saying that he will help Kikyo escape from the west if she joins forces with him and the south.
Kikyo rejects the offer by saying that she will take the bellflower seeds and let them flourish in the west, meaning that she intends to handle the problems on her own accord.
Thus, Kagewaki storms off irritated because he cannot comprehend how the miko can reject him under these dire circumstances.
Ok, that's all. I hope that reveals a new perspective on that conversation. They, arguably two of the wittiest characters in the original show, had that whole exchange on flowers and gardening in front of everyone in the banquet. But in reality, it was Kagewaki asking Kikyo to join under his banner.
With that said, until next time! See you all in Chapter 14-Questionable Intent II.