Author's Note:
Hello, my loves. I hope everyone is doing well and thriving during these challenging times. I also hope that everyone had a great and safe Labor Day weekend if you live in the States. I am currently overcoming a bad case of writer's block, a lack of motivation, and a deep depression, but I am trying to push through it. Don't worry, though. I still plan to finish this story and continue writing. I feel bad that I can't/ haven't been updating like I used to and how I want to. So, please bear with me as we struggle through this story. I still love you guys and appreciate the support.
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Chapter 10
The morning came quickly for InuYasha as he cracked his eyes open. Even though it was still dark in his room, he could feel that dawn was about to break through shortly. After he explained about his human night routine, the twins told him to get some rest while they watched over him. At first, he resisted since he never slept during the New Moon phase. But after some convincing and the fog of tiredness taking over his mind and body, InuYasha decided to take the chance and get some rest. After all, he was being protected by his strong pups, Koga, Shippo, and elder brother somewhere in the castle. And, although he hated to admit it, this was the first time since he was a pup that he had a good night's rest during the New Moon. It felt strange, considering that he always had to remain vigilant during this time of the month, but knowing that he had others watching over him made InuYasha's heart feel full. However, there was one thing that he liked about the New Moon phase: watching the sunrise. With a silent grunt, the hanyo sat up in bed and looked around the room.
In his bed, his daughter was sound asleep, making the smallest and cutest snoring noises the hanyo ever heard. With a gentle smile, InuYasha pulled the covers up to her chin and tucked her further into the bed. She only stirred a little bit before she relaxed and snuggled further into the cushioned bed. In the corner of the room, closest to the balcony door, was his son sleeping soundly with his back, sitting up with his back to the wall, his legs crossed, and his long spear resting against his body. At some point throughout the night, InuRida left the room to retrieve his spear while InuKanpeki watched over the human-turned hanyo. InuYasha tried to tell his pups that all of the attention and protection was unnecessary, but they refused to listen. They argued that he was too vulnerable and that they swore on their life that, as long as they were alive, then nothing was going to happen to him ever again. Not knowing what to say to that vow of protection, InuYasha decided to drop the argument for the night and live off the warmth that was his children. As quietly as he could, InuYasha rolled out of bed and went to the nearby wardrobe where they kept the spare blankets and grabbed one. Next, he brought it over to InuRida and placed it around his shoulders and on his lap. He tried removing InuRida's spear, but the boy had an iron grip on his weapon, and InuYasha didn't want to wake him. So, he tucked the blanket around his son instead and quietly undid the door's latch before silently slipping through the opening.
The first thing the hanyō-turned human did was breathe in the chilled early spring air. Being used to the outside elements, InuYasha enjoyed the chill in the air as he slipped his legs through the railing on the balcony and sat on the edge. He folded his arms through his sleeves and waited for the sun to come up. Luckily, it didn't take too long as more of the sun peaked over the horizon.
Before he knew it, the burning sun lit up the earth in a portrait of reds, yellows, purples, and blues. To InuYasha, this was his favorite part of his human nights, watching the sunrise. When he was younger, after his mother realized that he reverted to his human form after the sunrise, she would wake him up to watch it with her. It was a tradition he kept alive even after his death. No matter how tired he was, InuYasha always made it a point to watch the sunrise, mainly because his second favorite part came next. As more of the sun rose over the horizon, InuYasha felt his body change back into his hanyo form. InuYasha closed his eyes, breathing in more of the spring air as his transformation began. Suddenly, the roots of his hair turned white and bled the tips of his long hair, strengthening it. Next, he could feel his claws and fangs extend, and his dog ears peeked through his changed roots, making him grunt from the pain. His transformation into his half-demon form was always painful, but the excitement of feeling normal again outweighed the consequences. When he opened his eyes, his enhanced vision returned, letting the hanyo know that he was back to normal, causing him to smile brightly as he jumped up and flexed his muscles.
"Papa?"
InuYasha jumped as he turned around and saw his pups standing in the balcony's doorway with shocked expressions on their faces.
"Hey, good morning," he smiled and waved nervously. "You scared me a little."
"You're not human anymore," InuRida said as he stepped closer and ran his fingers through InuYasha's long, silver locs.
"Yes, I am. It's morning, so I'm back to normal.
"Quite fascinating. And this always occurs at the beginning of every new month?" InuKanpeki asked.
InuYasha nodded, "Yes. Thank you for keeping me company last night. It was… different… to say the least."
"Didn't your pack keep you company during your human nights?" she asked again.
"They tried, but they were only humans, so there was only so much that they could do. I usually waited for them to fall asleep and sneak away and come back before they woke up."
"Humans truly are weak creatures. How did you manage to stay with them for so long?" InuRida asked.
"Humans ain't all bad. They're not as fragile as you think, either. There have been a few times when the humans saved my life in my pack. And for that, I'm forever grateful," InuYasha smiled.
"Hmm. Well, in that case, we shall be forever grateful to them for helping keep you alive for this long," she smiled too.
Just when InuYasha was about to respond, there was a knock at the door. InuYasha yelled for them to come in and was shocked to see Sesshomaru, Koga, and Shippo entering his room.
"Well, isn't this a surprise. Isn't it a bit early for you to be bothering me already?" InuYasha asked as he folded his arms into his sleeves.
"Isn't it a bit early for you to be annoying this morning?" Koga smirked with his hands on his hips.
"Some things never change," Shippo smiled as he shook his head.
"Good morning, Father, Lord Shippo, and Lord Koga," the twins bowed in greeting.
"Hey, that's Uncle Koga to you two,"
"My pups will never call you that," InuYasha and Sesshomaru said in unison, causing everyone in the room to laugh.
However, the laughter died down when the hanyo noticed his older brother staring at him in curiosity.
"What are you staring at, bastard?"
"You've changed back. Fascinating," Sesshomaru said.
"Of course, I changed back, idiot. I only stay human for a night during the new moon."
"The new moon? Turning human? Oh shit, was that last night?" Koga asked as he smacked his forehead.
"InuYasha, we're so sorry. We were trapped in meetings all day yesterday and weren't paying attention. Had we known…" Shippo said, his voice trailing off in sadness. "Were you alright?"
"Hey, don't worry about it. You know that I could always take care of myself during the new moon. There was no need to worry about me. Besides, my pups kept me company all night," InuYasha smiled as he looked at his pups with pride and happiness.
"What? You actually let them stay with you all night during your human phase? You used to make such a big deal about being alone on your human nights," Shippo pouted.
"Don't worry. He still put up a fight and tried to kick us out a few times, but we remained here and watched over him," InuRida smiled proudly.
"It was interesting, to say the least. It's been a long time since we've been around humans, especially since Lady Rin passed away," InuKanpeki said as she thought fondly about her memories.
"Is the village still around?" InuYasha asked hopefully.
"Of course. Lord Sesshomaru sends people there to deliver supplies and help with its upkeep from time to time. Oh, and you won't believe that Sango and Miroku's great-granddaughter is the High Priestess there and Rin and Kohaku's great-grandson is the village's healer. They're both actually pretty famous in the Western Lands," Shippo smiled.
"Wow, that's amazing. I'm so happy for them. And it's great to know that Rin and Kohaku got together and started a family. Good for them," InuYasha sighed as he thought fondly about his late friends. Before tears could form in his eyes, InuYasha shook his head and changed the subject. "Anyway, what did the three of you come to my room for anyway?"
"Well, Koga and I came to check on you before we left."
"Aw, you're leaving already? But you just got here," InuYasha whined.
"We know, but we were in the middle of something important before we heard that you were alive again. So, we left to come visit, but now we have to leave again," Koga explained.
"What were you guys dealing with? Maybe I can~."
"It's nothing for you to worry about, Muttface. Just some rival clans who constantly try to threaten our lands."
"Yeah, but we beat them back every time!" Shippo smiled proudly.
"Well… that's good to hear…" InuYasha said, trying not to sound hurt.
"But don't worry, we'll come back and visit when it's time for your coronation. So, make sure that you don't embarrass us," teased Koga.
"Excuse me. Who do you think you're talking to, dog breath?!"
Koga just laughed as he approached the seething hanyo and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Be good while we're gone."
"Yeah, we can't wait to see you again soon, InuYasha," Shippo smiled before hugging the half-demon and burying his nose in the crook of his neck, committing the scent to memory. I'll miss you."
Getting over his initial shock, InuYasha sighed as he returned the hug and buried his nose in Shippo's crown, doing the same with Shippo's scent, "Behave yourself, and don't you go dying on me before I see ya again,"
"Ha, we could say the same for you, Muttface," laughed Koga as he walked to the door.
Reluctantly, Shippo pulled away from InuYasha and followed Koga towards the door. With one final look, the trio waved goodbye before Koga and Shippo were out of sight. Once they were gone, Sesshomaru cleared his throat, effectively capturing the attention of everyone in the room.
"InuYasha, I spoke with the pups' tutors, and they offered to prepare you for your coronation,"
"Do I really have to learn from some stupid tutors for this coronation thing?" he whined.
"Of course you do, papa. There are certain etiquette and procedures that you must follow for our clan, especially with who grandfather was."
"Although I hated going through those classes too, I must agree with Kanpeki that it is necessary. You don't want to bring dishonor onto our clan, trust me, Papa."
"Fine, I guess. When do these classes start?"
"Tomorrow morning, as soon as you wake up," said Sesshomaru.
"Ugh, why so early in the morning?"
"You have a lot to learn. The sooner and earlier you start, the more you can accomplish. I expect you to be up and dressed first thing in the morning. I shall send a servant to fetch you when your tutors are available," Sesshomaru commanded. InuYasha grumbled as he folded his arms and looked away. Ignoring him, Sesshomaru said, "Pups, it's time for your lessons. Come."
"Father, can Papa come to the training grounds with me? I'd love to show him some of the new moves I have been working on," InuRida asked. Sesshomaru nodded, causing their son to cheer. "Come on, Papa. You're going to have fun watching me fight!"
"Or he's going to laugh at all the times sensei criticizes your posture, stance, and technique," InuKanpeki giggled behind her hand until Sesshomaru glared at her.
InuRida pouted as he watched the two of them leave the room. Seeing his son like that made InuYasha feel sorry for him. So, like a good parent, he placed his hand on his pup's shoulder and offered encouraging words.
"Don't listen to her. I'm sure that it's nowhere as bad as she's making it out to be. Come on, let's see what you got!"
Suddenly, InuRida's excitement sparked, and he was excited to show off in front of his Papa. He only hoped that he would not embarrass himself.
"Again!" the sensei shouted as he pointed the tip of his sword at InuRida, who was lying flat on his back, confused and embarrassed.
The daiyōkai cursed before getting back onto his feet and charging at his sensei again. The tiger demon stilled his nerves and widened his stance as he prepared for the attack. Unfortunately for the Inu-demon, his moves were too predictable. The tiger demon sidestepped his student and used the hilt of his sword to strike the back of InuRida's neck, sending him to the ground with a huff, sore neck, and another sense of embarrassment as he was getting manhandled in front of his Papa.
InuYasha, who was on the other side of the training fields, sat quietly as he watched his son fail time and time again to land a hit on his opponent. It took everything in him not to go over to the duo and show his son how to wield a weapon and defeat his opponent. The only problem with that was that, even though he was released from bed rest and out of his post-partum stage, his muscles were still too weak to swing his heavy sword without losing his balance; frustrating, to say the least. The other issue is that even InuYasha knew that it was improper to interrupt a lesson in battle etiquette. He may not have been adequately trained in how to use his sword, but he was the master of it as far as he was concerned. Interrupting another person's fighting lesson meant challenging the sensei for dominance. In normal circumstances, InuYasha might not have cared as much. However, it did not matter since his son's choice of weapon was a spear, and there was no way he could challenge the tiger without losing and embarrassing himself. So, the half-demon chose to remain sitting quietly until the lesson was over, which seemed as if it was now.
A more focused InuRida thrust his spear toward the tiger demon, making him dodge each thrust with minimal effort. However, those minor attacks were nothing more than a distraction. When the tiger had enough, he swung his sword at InuRida, but the royal demon was prepared. InuRida smirked as he summoned his poisoned whip and wrapped it around the sword before yanking it out of his sensei's hand. The tiger was shocked and distracted long enough almost to miss the spear's blade coming at him. Luckily, the tiger dodged the attack, only being nicked on his side by the tip of the blade. However, it didn't stop InuRida from continuing his attack. The Inu-demon spun around and kicked his sensei on the same side, sending him falling to the ground. With his sensei on the ground and his blade at the tiger's throat, InuRida felt victorious, even if it was for the moment.
"Nicely done. You finally managed to catch me off guard. It only took you a few decades," the tiger chuckled as InuRida rolled his eyes and helped him stand.
"You are dismissed for the rest of the day. I hope that you take the time to reflect on the lessons and moves we worked on today," the tiger said as they bowed to each other in respect. "Now that I know that you can finally catch me off guard, I'll be watching you closer now. Let's see if it doesn't take another couple of decades before you can do it again," he smirked.
"Yes, sense," InuRida grumbled as he remained in the bowing position.
"Lord InuYasha, it was a joy to have you as an audience member for our lesson. I have heard of your many conquests. Once you are back to your full strength, I wouldn't mind a challenge. You have a talented son. It would be an honor to see the other side of where he gets his strength from."
InuYasha stood and nodded toward the tiger as he walked over to them, his arms hiding in his sleeves. "Don't worry; you'll have that challenge soon enough."
The tiger bowed a final time before patting InuRida on the shoulder and leaving the pair alone on the field. Once his sensei was gone, InuRida huffed as he sat on the ground with his spear in his lap.
"That was horrible. Sorry for embarrassing you, Papa."
"What are you talking about? You weren't as bad as you thought you were," InuYasha tried to encourage.
"Are you kidding me? I was so focused on making you proud and showing you my skills that I lost myself in the moment and almost failed today's lesson. I'm such an idiot," InuRida groaned as he fell back and lay on the ground.
"Now stop that. You really weren't as bad as you thought. Yes, you made a few mistakes and got manhandled during the entire lesson, but you did well enough. You sure impressed me."
"Really?! You think so?!" InuRida smiled as he shot up in a sitting position. InuYasha nodded at his son's excitement before it turned sour. "I appreciate it, but if Father were here, he would constantly remind me that if this had been a real battle, then I would be dead."
"Well, he might be right about that, but he's also an ice prick who's still upset about losing his arm to me the first time we fought," InuYasha smirked.
"I bet that was an incredible battle—two of the most powerful demons I know battling it out over a sword. In all the years I've been alive, I have never seen Father lose a fight. But then again, I've only heard about his battles with Naraku, Lord Fukushu, and you, Papa."
"That's because we're all that's worth mentioning. But don't think that mistakes weren't made during those fights. For instance, when I fought your father, I was aiming for his head but got his arm instead," InuYasha chuckled.
"Papa…"
"I'm just kidding. Look, know that during those fights, even though I was not there for all of them, I made mistakes myself, and your father had to save me, too. I could have died a few times over if it had not been for him. And for that, I'm secretly grateful. But if you ever tell him that, I'll deny it."
"Don't worry, I won't tell. He's done the same for Kanpeki and me whenever Lord Fukushu sends his assassins to our home."
"Speaking of which, I haven't heard or seen any attacks from that snake in the grass since I woke up. What gives?"
"I don't know. The attacks are sometimes relentless. Other times, months go by before we hear anything again. It's strange, and I don't understand it either. I wish that he would stop being a coward and face us once and for all. I want to live in a world of peace, not constantly deal with a constant nuisance."
"Yeah, well, that comes with the territory when there are times of war. It's something no one ever gets used to. I felt the same thing when we were fighting Naraku. I had hoped that my pups wouldn't have to deal with it either."
"The worst part is that, no matter what happens, I'm always the easiest target out of Father and Kanpeki. Sometimes, either Father or she is always the one saving me instead of the other way around. That's why Father makes me train harder than Kanpeki. Everything she does, she excels at, while I am constantly criticized for every move I make. I feel as if I'm bringing dishonor to my family. It's… a horrible feeling…"
Sensing his son's disappointment and sad emotion, InuYasha bent down and placed a hand on his son's shoulder, "Hey, you're not the only one who felt like that. Remember, I never even got to meet your grandfather, and I'm a half-demon. I grew up believing that I wouldn't fit in anywhere after your grandmother passed away. It's a feeling, like other obstacles, that you'll have to conquer on your own."
"Yeah… I know that you're right, but… it doesn't excuse things in father's eyes."
InuYasha sighed as he stared at his son. The same feelings that his son expressed were the same feelings that he had growing up. One thing that InuYasha promised himself after finding out that he was pregnant was that he would make sure that his pups didn't grow up like he did, feeling the same feelings he felt and living the same life he lived. He promised always to protect them for as long as he lived. However, at that moment, he felt like a failure as a parent, something he never wanted to feel. Suddenly, an idea popped into his head as he looked ahead at the wall surrounding the castle.
"Rida, have you ever been outside of the castle wall before? Without your father?" InuYasha asked.
"No, Father forbids it. He said that it's there to protect us from enemy attacks and separates us from the lowlife of the outside world."
"Well, why don't we take a little trip outside of the wall for the first time?"
"I would love to, but… I don't want to disappoint Father…"
"There's nothing to disappoint. You'll be with me, and as your parent, I say that we go over the wall. Besides, we won't go too far. Come on, it'll be fun. I'll even help show you a few of my moves to use on your sensei in your next lesson," InuYasha tried to coax his son.
Luckily, the excitement of spending alone time with his Papa and secretly defying his Father ran through his veins before he jumped up in excitement.
"I'm ready when you are, Papa."
InuYasha nodded, "Alright, let's go."
With heavy security around the castle, it took the duo about an hour to find a blind spot to escape over the wall. However, as time crawled on and no blind spot was in sight, InuYasha became frustrated as he leaned against a tree they were hiding behind.
"Why does Sesshomaru have so many guards posted around this place? There's no way that he needs this many guards with his power."
"It's more for the protection of the people within the castle instead of for himself. They're trained to diligently watch for any signs of an assassination attempt by Lord Fukushu and to minimize any casualties until Father can arrive."
"Hm. Well, I guess you can't be too careful with a menace like that running around. But still, it makes it hard for us to get out of here," InuYasha groaned.
"They are very attentive to their job. I should know. I've tried sneaking out a time or two when I was younger, but they've always managed to catch me before I made it far. Father's wrath put a stop to that quickly."
Don't worry, kid. You're with me. If anything happens, I'll take the heat. Sesshomaru nor the guards will do anything to you as long as I'm here," the hanyo smirked with his thumb jerked in his direction.
"It won't matter if we can't get over the wall. And I can't transform into my demon form, or else everyone will see us. Maybe we should give up already and go back to the training fields, Papa."
"You're of my blood, and you're giving up so easily? Shameful. But don't worry, I came up with a plan to get us over that wall. I'm going to distract the guards long enough for us to escape. But I can't make it over the wall by myself. Do you think that you could carry me?"
InuRida nodded, "But how are you going to distract them? They're never supposed to leave their posts."
"Don't worry about it. Just make sure that you're ready when they leave."
InuRida was about to protest, but InuYasha had already calmly made his way toward the guards. As he approached them, the hanyo cleared his throat to gain their attention.
"Lord InuYasha, what are you doing this far end of the castle wall?" asked an alligator demon.
"Yes, shouldn't you be resting and focusing on your recovery?" asked the dog demon.
"I appreciate your concern, but I'm well enough to be up and moving around. Or do you doubt my strength?" InuYasha asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Of course not, milord. Please forgive us," the guards bowed in unison.
InuYasha waved his hand in front of his face and said, "Forget it. I took no offense. Anyway, have you seen my son? I can't find Rida anywhere."
"No, milord. We have not seen the young prince. He might be in one of his lessons within the castle. Have you checked there?" asked the dog demon.
"Of course, but no one has seen him. I figured he'd be out here somewhere. Can you please help me find him? It's important that I speak with him."
"I'm sorry, milord, but we're under strict orders from Lord Sesshomaru not to leave our post," the alligator demon said.
"Are you saying that he's above me in rank?" InuYasha asked with crossed arms and a raised eyebrow.
"Of course not, milord. We were merely letting you know our orders," the dog demon panicked.
"However, I'm sure we can summon a servant to help you find him," the alligator suggested.
"There's no time for that. I need both of you to fan out and find my son immediately. Or are you disobeying a direct order from your lord?"
"Of course not, Lord InuYasha. We would not dream of it," the alligator panicked this time.
"However, we can't risk the wrath of Lord Sesshomaru should he find out we left our post," the dog demon said.
"Don't worry about the ice prince. I'll take the heat if he finds out. Just look for my son and tell him to come to my bed chambers and return to your post before Sesshomaru finds out. I promise that you won't get in trouble."
The guards gave each other conflicting looks. On the one hand, they couldn't disobey Sesshomaru's orders, but in doing so, they would be disobeying InuYasha and risk incurring the wrath of both lords. Seeing their dilemma and possible rejection of his ruse, InuYasha thought quickly and wobbled a little bit. He had to catch himself before he "almost" fell over.
"Milord!" The guards shouted as they reached for him, but InuYasha was quick to hold his hand out and stand up straight.
"Sorry. I guess I got a little dizzy. That's why I needed to find Rida. He's supposed to help with my medicine."
"We're so sorry, milord, for not understanding how dire the circumstances were. Please allow one of us to escort you back to your room while the other finds the young prince," the dog demon offered.
"That won't be necessary. I can make it back to my room on my own. Please find my son and tell him that I need him in my room as soon as possible."
"Right away, milord!" the two guards bowed before turning around and running away from their post.
When they were far away enough, InuYasha immediately ran towards the tree when InuRida was still hiding and called out to him, "Let's go!"
The confused but ready demon nodded as he bent down and cupped his hands. InuYasha quickly got onto his son's back and held on tight as his son took off toward the wall and jumped over it. InuYasha held on as tight as he could, almost slipping when InuRida first took off, but as they soared over the wall, InuYasha never felt so free as he did at that moment. He even lifted his head and stared at the vast land before him. It made him think back to all the times he carried Kagome on his back and soared through the trees with her. He wondered if she shared the same feeling as him at that moment. However, the thought was short-lived as InuRida quickly landed on the ground with a quiet thud and let him off.
"Nice job, kid. You did well," InuYasha complimented.
"No, you were the incredible one. I never knew that you could be so persuasive."
"Eh. I picked up a few tricks from my pack member, Miroku, whenever we needed a place to stay in town. He was the more persuasive one out of all of us," InuYasha said fondly.
"Well, whatever you did worked. We're outside the castle!"
"Shhh! Keep your voice down before someone hears you!" InuYasha scolded before looking around in awe.
Although he'd never been directly outside of Sesshomaru's castle, InuYasha felt that the trees were taller than he remembered, and the world was different. Which, in retrospect, would make sense since he was asleep for 150 years. It reminded him of when he woke up the first time after being sealed away by Kikyo all those years ago. It brought a tear to his eyes as he inhaled the woodsy air deeply, reminding him of his life before.
"Papa, you're crying… Is everything alright?"
"Huh?" InuYasha said in confusion until he felt a tear roll down his cheek. With gentle hands, he wiped the tear away and turned so his son wouldn't see the others that came out too. "It's alright. I just got some dirt in my eye from when we landed."
InuRida was going to mention its impossibility but thought better of it. Instead, he said, "It must have been a long time since you were outside, hasn't it?"
"Yeah. Like I said before, I had never been to the castle before, but I spent my entire life living off the land and being one with the outside world. The trees and forests were my home. I was never meant to be coped up in a castle or anywhere for that matter. I… really miss this…"
InuRida nodded in understanding of his papa's sentiment. All his life, InuRida never felt he belonged within the castle walls either. He wanted to be free to roam the world as his parents did before him. After hearing stories of his parents' journeys, the young prince was eager to explore the world himself, despite knowing the dangers his father warned him about. It only made him curse Lord Fukushu more for taking his papa and his freedom from him. It was at that moment that InuRida vowed to get stronger to not only protect his clan, people, and lands from his relative but that he could defeat the bastard and gain his freedom. But, for now, he would enjoy the time he's spending with his papa.
"Papa, what did you do most of the time before you met your pack?"
"Hm? Well, when I wasn't hunting for food or training, I would spend all of my time relaxing in the trees."
"That sounds great! I never climbed trees before."
"Why not?"
InuRida shrugged his shoulders and said, "I don't know. I never had a desire to do so. I've always remained on the ground, but I've thought about doing it one day."
"Why not now?" InuYasha suggested.
"You mean right here, right now?"
InuYasha nodded, "Yeah, I'll show you. Watch me."
The excited prince followed his papa toward a nearby tree and watched as InuYasha gave instructions on how to climb it.
"Now listen up because I'm only going to do this once. Usually, when I'm at the peak of my health and strength, I would jump onto the lowest branch. But since I'm not, I'll have to use my claws. You want to make sure that you've got a good grip on the bark before climbing up. Just watch me," InuYasha said as he demonstrated.
It had been a while since he climbed a tree, and it showed. As he tried to climb the tree, he slipped a few times, and his muscles ached. But he was nothing if not determined. So, after a few tries, InuYasha managed to climb high enough to reach the lowest branch. With the bit of strength he had left, InuYasha grabbed the branch and pulled himself onto the thick limb. A few beads of sweat dripped down his face as he tried to catch his breath before turning to his son and running his fingers through his sweaty bangs.
"See, easy peasy,"
"Wow! You make it look so easy! I want to try!" InuRida shouted excitedly as he jumped from the ground and landed on the branch, shaking it and InuYasha as he landed. "How was that?"
InuYasha waited for the branch to stop shaking before he pried his claws out of the bark, "It could have been gentler. You don't need much force when landing. Try being more graceful."
"You sounded like Father for a moment," InuRida teased.
"Don't ever say that again," InuYasha frowned.
InuRida chuckled before looking around and enjoying the view. "It's… so beautiful and refreshing out here. And you got to enjoy this every single day? Amazing."
"We're only one branch off the ground. Wait until we go a little higher," InuYasha smirked as he turned toward the trunk and climbed to the next branch. Just as before, the hanyo was out of breath by the time he made it to the second branch. He wiped away more sweat as he leaned against the trunk and rested for a bit. Suddenly, InuYasha thought that maybe he should have waited until he recovered more of his strength before attempting to do this. At least his son was enjoying himself.
InuRida's laughter and excitement could be heard throughout the forest as he jumped from one branch to another, gaining speed and making his way to the top. However, when he noticed that InuYasha wasn't following behind him, he retraced his steps and made his way back to where his papa was currently resting.
"Are you not feeling well, Papa? Should we turn back, especially before Father catches us?"
"No, no. I'm fine. I'm just a little winded, is all."
"Are you sure you don't want to go back? You're missing all of the beauty from the tops of the trees."
"Eh, you've climbed three treetops; you've climbed them all. You keep enjoying yourself, and I'll be right here," InuYasha encouraged with a smile.
InuRida's smile widened as he jumped off the branch and back into the tree. InuYasha smiled as he enjoyed his son's freedom. Because he spent his entire life outside and free to do what he wanted, he didn't really understand what it was like being encased in one place for too long other than the time when he lived with his mother and her clan. That was the only time he was told that he had to remain in that particular part of the castle for his safety. However, his pups, being raised by Sesshomaru alone, spent almost their entire life inside the castle walls and under the attack of Lord Fufushu. It made InuYasha's blood boil to know that because of the bastard, his pups had to live mainly within the castle walls without as much freedom as they deserved. However, it was moments like this when he spent time with his pups that drove him to get stronger so that he could give them the life he never had.
As the hanyo was lost in thought, InuRida laughed and hopped through the trees, living as wild and free as never before until he returned to his Papa's side, not wanting to go too far.
"How are ya havin' fun yet?" asked InuYasha.
"Are you kidding me?! This is the most fun I've ever had! I so wish that you could join me. Maybe you could ride on my back again?"
"Save it for when we have to go over the wall. There's something I want to teach you. Son, we're going hunting," InuYasha smirked, making InuRida's face light up with excitement. "Help me down, and I'll show you how to hunt the proper way."
InuRida nodded before throwing one of his papa's arms around his neck and jumping onto the ground. InuYasha led the way as they went further into the forest. Luckily, they didn't have to go too far when the hanyo spotted a deer drinking at a nearby stream. Without speaking, InuYasha reached up, grabbed his son's head, and brought him to the ground behind waist-high, leafy green bushes.
"What are you doing, Papa?"
InuYasha brought his finger to his lips and shushed InuRida before pointing to the unsuspecting deer before them.
"You see that deer over there? We're going to hunt it, and I'm going to teach you."
"I'm ready, Papa,"
"First, take off your boots. You'll get a better sense of your surroundings if you're not wearing them," InuRida nodded as he sat up. He quickly removed his black metal boots and quietly placed them on the ground. "Next, crouch as low as you can to the ground without taking your eyes off your prey. Feel the stillness of the ground under your toes and claws. Now, when you're ready, get as close to your prey as possible without being noticed. And once you're close enough, dig your claws into your prey and aim your fangs for its neck to kill it. Remember, you only get one shot at this."
InuRida nodded as he prepared himself. He was nervous, this being his first hunt. To calm his nerves, InuRida took a deep breath and quietly exhaled. However, before he was about to make his move, the beast briefly screamed in pain as an arrow struck it down. The father-son duo was shocked until they heard voices coming from the other side of the river. The two crouched as low to the ground as possible to conceal themselves from their potential enemies.
"Nice shot!" a tall, brown bear demon cheered as another one joined him near the deceased animal.
"That beast didn't even know what was going on. This will make a great dinner after we slaughter those pups of Lord Sesshomaru," the other bear demon said as he pulled the arrow out of the deer and cleaned it off.
"Yeah. I can't wait to go back to Lord Fukushu and claim our reward. He's paying handsomely for their heads."
"Double if we bring him, Lord Sesshomaru, alive."
"Are you freaking nuts? I ain't going against that guy? The ruler of the Western Lands will kill us both dead before we can blink our eyes. The pups don't seem so bad, though. We just have to watch out for the girl. She's more dangerous than her brother."
"Good, then we better start with him. You got the map?"
"Yes, sir. I know where their rooms are. We'll sneak in during the dead of night and slaughter them before Lord Sesshomaru even knows what happened."
As the two demons laughed at their plan, InuYasha's blood boiled, knowing that they had plans to harm his pups. They must be punished, and InuYasha was tired of feeling useless. He may not be at his full strength, but surely, he could take on two bear demons with his son's help before Sesshomaru and InuKanpeki ever found out.
"Papa, we need to get out of here,"
"No, we stay and fight," InuYasha said with tightened fists.
"But, Papa,"
"No, we must stop them and protect your sister and the castle before they do any harm. I'll be by your side. Now, it's time to show me and everyone else what those years of training taught you,"
InuRida looked at his father in amazement before smiling and nodding, "You're right, Papa. Let's end this here and now."
Both Inu demons stood up and exited the bushes, catching both the bears' attention.
"Huh? Who the hell are you?" one of the bear demons asked.
"Your worst nightmare," InuYasha smirked as he cracked his knuckles.
"Hey, isn't that the young prince?" asked one of the bears.
"Yeah, but who's that other guy with him? I don't recognize him at all," the other bear demon said.
"The name's InuYasha! And tell that fuckhead, Lord Fukushu, that if he wants me or my pups, then to come get us himself!" InuYasha yelled before digging into his palm with his claws hard enough to make himself bleed. Once he gathered enough blood, he released his attack, "Blades of Blood!"
Suddenly, a wave of red claw marks came at the bears, causing them to jump out of the way. InuYasha cursed as he saw them dodge his attack. But before he could prepare for his next attack, one of the bears quickly grabbed InuYasha by his neck hard, squeezing his breath and life out of him. Just then, InuRida summoned his poison whip and snapped the demon's arm clean from his body.
"You'll never touch my Papa again; I'll see to that," InuRida glared as he struck his poison whip again and sliced through the rest of the demon, effectively killing him, before he went to InuYasha's side.
"Brother!" The other bear demon cried angry, hot tears, "Now, you're going to pay."
But before the bear could attack, a second poison whip appeared and wrapped around his neck. Everyone was shocked to see an angry Sesshomaru standing behind the demon with a fire burning in his eyes.
"Father, Sesshomaru?!" both Inu-demons yelled.
"When you see Lord Fukushu in hell, tell him that this Sesshomaru was the one who sent you there," Sesshomaru said, quickly removing the demon's head with a flick of his wrist.
However, the two had another problem. Both the bear demons had been slain, but an angry Sesshomaru still loomed over them. Trying to quell the situation, InuYasha stood up with his hands in front of him, showing submission, and tried not to be so nervous, which he was failing miserably at.
"Now, Sesshomaru, before you get all pissy, I just want you to know that~"
"InuYasha," Sesshomaru said in an icy tone, effectively shutting up the younger of the two. That's when his icy stare turned towards his son. "InuRida. I am very disappointed in you… both of you…" Neither thought to say anything, especially InuYasha. Old wounds resurfaced as he thought about every injury he suffered at his brother's hands when he talked to him in that tone. However, it surprised the hanyo when the daiyōkai only turned around and started walking away from them. "We're going back to the castle now."
Neither InuYasha nor InuRida dared to say anything as they followed Sesshomaru back to the castle.
When they arrived, InuKanpeki was impatiently waiting for them.
"Oh, thank the Heavens, you found them, Father. I was starting to get sick with worry," she said as she came to hug InuYasha and InuRida before taking a look at their disheveled, messy clothing and InuRida's missing boots. "What happened to you two?"
Before either Inu-demon could say anything, Sesshomaru spoke harshly, "InuRida, you are to go to your room this instant and stay there until I come to you. I do not want to see you otherwise."
"Yes, Father," he bowed before turning on his heels and marching off to his room.
InuKanpeki watched as her brother left the room obediently before she turned to her parents. She was confused and wanted answers, but the icy glare in her father's eyes told her that it was best she leave the room, too. Without another word, the young princess did as she was commanded and quietly left for her room as well. InuYasha watched all of this with sadness in his heart as he realized the trouble he had caused everyone just for a taste of freedom. Once they were alone, InuYasha found the courage to talk again, but he was weary and made sure to show his submissive side.
"Sesshomaru, listen to me. Before you get angry at anyone, you should take it out on me. I was the one who tricked the guards, and I was the one who convinced InuRida to go outside of the wall. It was all my fault. Punish me."
"You are not a child, InuYasha. I will not punish you like one," Sesshomaru said as he stared his brother down like a predator does its prey, making InuYasha uncomfortable.
"I appreciate that," InuYasha said, but it wasn't going to help the situation. Sesshomaru's stern glare told him that. "I know. I know. I shouldn't have convinced our son to go over the wall with me. But you can't keep us locked up forever."
"Even if that means protecting you and our pups? You know better than anyone how dangerous Lord Fukushu can be. And yet, you'd rather risk it all for some freedom. The same freedom you will have after fulfilling your duties here?"
InuYasha knew that he couldn't argue with that logic, but that didn't stop him from trying.
"We had it under control."
"Not from where I stood," Sesshomaru said.
"Did you not see our son kill the first bear demon? Doesn't that make you proud?" InuYasha argued.
"What I saw was him saving you from a vicious attack before I stepped in."
"You're impossible," InuYasha sighed as he folded his arms.
"I am responsible for you, our pups, the people in this castle, and the entire Western Lands. I cannot afford to take any chances. The sooner that you come to understand that, the better things will be."
"I can take care of myself," was what InuYasha wanted to say, but it was pointless when, for a rare time, he agreed with his older brother. However, he would never admit it and was too exhausted to fight about it anymore.
Instead, InuYasha decided it was time to return to his bedroom. But before he was out of earshot, he turned toward Sesshomaru and gave a glare of his own, "If I find out that you punished either of those guards or our son for what I did, then you'll have me to deal with. Ya got that, bastard?"
InuYasha didn't wait for Sesshomaru's response, and the older demon wasn't going to give one. In the end, Sesshomaru glared at his brother's back until he was out of sight. Afterward, he returned to his office and worked on some of his paperwork, where he remained for the rest of the night until the bits of sunrays peaked over the horizon. It was also that morning that the castle felt so quiet that a pin could be heard throughout the castle, an eerie feeling for the Inu castle.
…
…
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To Be Continued…