Author's Notes:

Hello, loves! We're back with another chapter, and this one was a little more interesting to write. I also wanted to apologize to everyone. I love it when you guys comment on my stories, but I'm an airhead and forget to reply to everyone. Know that Iread the comments. I also hope that this long chapter makes up for my absence. However, a very important questionwas asked that I felt needed to be addressed.

There will be romance within this story, but it's not the kind of romance you're thinking about. InuYasha and Sesshomaru will not call each other lovers, nor will they express their love and care for one another through "I love yous." This is because I do not feel like this is realistic or authentic to their characters. Instead, I wanted to have them express it primarily through their actions instead of words. Both men are men of action, and I like that for their family. I also like the heartwarming scenes between the couple and their pups. Plus, this would be a new angle I'm trying out for my characters to see how it tracks. So, if any of you have any critiques or suggestions, pleaselet me know in the comments.

Speaking of which… how would you like to be a part of this story? I have the entire plot written out and waiting to be written, but I feel that some parts aren't worth putting in, and Idon't want the story to be empty. This means that I'm taking scene suggestions from my audience in hopes of improving this story. So, if you have a suggestion of what you'd like to see in the story (besides sex scenes because I promise there's another one coming), then feel free to either mention it in the comments or message me privately. I would love to bounce ideas off you guys so that I can finish this story strong.

Anyway, as usual, I love you guys and hope to hear from you soon! Enjoy the next chapter.

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Chapter 12

Two months passed quickly before InuYashaknew it. After he was introduced to his tutors, The Council, Lady InuKimi, and Sesshomaru gave him two months to gain as much knowledge and etiquette as possible before his coronation. It was hard, and there were plenty of times when he was literally bored out of his mind, but InuYasha promised his pups that he would do his best to bring honor to their clan's name. And, if InuYasha was anything, he was true to his word. What made things easier on the hanyo was the time he got to spend training with his pups during those two months.

After his lessons were over, InuYasha would sprint from the library, grab his sword, and meet his pups on the training grounds. The first step was to regain his strength. Much like his grueling work during his tutoring sessions, InuYasha had to start over from scratch to regain his strength. With the help of his pups, he underwent an intense workout session. However, despite this, it was worth it to see his strength return as his confidence returned. By the end of the first month, he was able to wield his sword. And, by the end of the second month, he was almost back to his full strength. Luckily, his healing properties as a half-demon helped speed the process along. Too bad he couldn't say the same thing for his tutoring sessions.

Although he was coming along well and stopped trying to escape, his sessions were long, tedious, and full of too much demon lore and stupid etiquette lessons. In his mind, he could give a rat's ass about how he dressed, walked, and ate for the formal event. However, every time he complained to either Sesshomaru or their pups, he was always met with the same answer: that it was necessary to distinguish themselves from the common folk. No matter how it was spun, it was all bullshit to him. But bullshit or not, it would be worth it when the quicker the ceremony would be over, the sooner he could leave the castle, hopefully with his pups too. However, that was a plan for another day. For now, he would focus and try to get through his final lesson, which he was failing miserably.

"Lord InuYasha, are you listening to me, or am I just talking to hear myself?" Fukuro chuckled.

"Smartass, you know I'm not," he sighed as he rolled his eyes and leaned onto his fist.

"Lord InuYasha! That kind of talk will not be permitted here, nor will it be at the coronation. What if Lord Sesshomaru heard you talk like this? You would bring dishonor onto your entire clan. Now, try it again," Lady Kyoshi scolded.

InuYasha huffed, cleared his throat, and spoke again: "I apologize for not listening. Please continue."
"Excellent, but we still have plenty of work to do. I will break you of that horrid cursing yet, young lord," Kyoshi sighed as she rubbed her temples.

"Good luck trying. Stronger men than you have tried to shut me up," InuYasha smirked.

"That is enough, InuYasha. I won't have you sassing your tutors."

Everyone straightened as they turned to see Sesshomaru and Jaken walking through the library.

"Welcome, Lord Sesshomaru," Kyoshi and Fukuro bowed and greeted. InuYasha wisely chose not to say anything.

"How are his lessons coming along?"

"Just fine, milord. He may not be the best student I've ever had, but he is coming along better than I expected. Allow us to demonstrate," Fukuro cleared his throat before turning to the hanyō with a stern look. "Lord InuYasha, who was the first Inu demon to build the wealth of your clan?"

"InuShuryou, my great, great grandfather."

"That's correct, milord. Now, who studied and nearly perfected demonic medicine throughout the Western Lands?" Fukuro asked again.

"Lady Chiyu?" InuYasha answered, but not as confident as his previous answer.

"That's correct, milord! Nicely done."

"Impressive, milord. Now, please demonstrate some of the etiquette we discussed in our previous lessons. Which side of Lord Sesshomaru do you sit on during the ceremony?" asked Kyoshi.

"His right because the right shows our trust in each other, and it also represents how, despite my status as the bearer of his heirs, as an omega, and as his younger brother, I am still beneath him." InuYasha sighed.

"Very good. Now, what is one of the most disgusting and dishonorable acts you shouldn't commit while you're drinking tea or eating your food?"

"Slurping."

"Correct, milord. Well done," smiled Kyoshi.

"Hmph. I'm shocked. Who knew this half-breed would be smart enough actually to retain some of the information. I had assumed that all of this would have been wasted on the likes of him," Jaken chuckled.

"Why, you little imp! Wait until I get my hands on you!" InuYasha threatened.

"I am not afraid of you, hanyo. Only Lord Sesshomaru can strike any fear into me,"

"Jaken,"

"Y-yes, Lord S-Sesshomaru?"

"Do not disrespect InuYasha in my presence again, or else," the demon glared before turning his attention back to the others within the room. "InuYasha, you have proven that you are ready for your Coronation Ceremony. I commend you for taking your lessons seriously."

"Are the preparations close to being completed, milord?" asked Fukuro.

"Yes. The preparations will be completed within a week. The guest should be arriving within the next few days. In the meantime, I expect you two to continue InuYasha's lessons until then," And without a word, Sesshomaru and Jaken left the library as quickly as they arrived.

"Ugh, I hate when he does that," InuYasha huffed as he crossed his arms.

"Do not mind him, young lord. Lord Sesshomaru has been like this since he was a young pup in my sessions,"

"You taught him too?" InuYasha asked in shock.

"We both have. We have been educating your clansman for generations, milord. That is why we are so good at what we do," Kyoshi smiled proudly.

"Now then, are you ready to continue our lesson?" Fukuro asked.

"Not particularly," groaned InuYasha.

"Don't worry. We're almost done. Allow me to finish this last history section before Lady Kyoshi does her final lesson of the day, and then you'll be free to go."

"Ugh, fine. Let's get this over with," InuYasha sighed as he straightened up and gave most of his attention to his tutors for the next two hours.

The week progressed as quickly as the last two months for InuYasha. As instructed, he completed his lessons before training with his pups. But as time progressed, his anxiety increased, causing him to pace his room throughout the night. The Coronation Ceremony was tomorrow, and InuYasha practically wore a hole in his floor from all his pacing. He's been through countless battles and even traveled through time, but nothing compared to being in a room with at least a hundred demons, including his elder brother. It especially didn't help that they were all there to watch him, probably waiting for him to slip up and show his worthlessness. The worst of it was the nightmares he'd had about disappointing Sesshomaru. No matter how many battles he's lost or injuries he sustained, nothing compared to what Sesshomaru or his pups might do if he embarrasses them tomorrow. InuYasha stopped his pacing and shuddered at the various possibilities as they ran through his mind.

Suddenly, a knock at his door made him jump in surprise before he called out, "Who's there?"

"It's us, Papa," InuKanpeki and InuRida said as they peeked their heads into the room.

"Oh, what are you guys doing up? Shouldn't you be getting rest for tomorrow?"

"We should be saying the same thing to you. Why are you still up? Are you worried about something, Papa?" InuKanpeki asked.

"Why would you say that?"

"We could hear you pacing from down the hall," she giggled behind her hand.

A blush appeared on InuYasha's cheeks as he looked down at his feet before looking back at his pups.

"I guess I'm… nervous about tomorrow. I just… don't want to fuck up, ya know? There will be a lot of prime and proper demons there that will already be judging me for being a half-breed."

"I know how you feel, Papa. I was just as nervous as you were when we had our coronation ceremony, but it wasn't so bad. You'll have us and Father there to help you," InuRida smiled.

"I don't know about Sesshomaru, but I appreciate knowing that you'll be there. It means more to more than you know."

"Papa, may I give you some advice?" she asked.

"Got ahead."

"No matter what happens, keep your head up and look straight ahead. Don't let them see you bothered. And if you forget something or need help, look at me. I'll be sitting right next to you for most of the night. I'll help you."

InuYasha's eyes widened as he looked at his pups. Feelings of admiration and love filled his heart. For the first time since he was with his friends, InuYasha felt those emotions. A smile spread across his face as he stared at his pups.

"You two are the best pups a man could ever ask for."

The twins nodded with smiles on their faces.

"We should let you get some rest," she said as she led her brother out of the room.

"We'll see you tomorrow," InuRida said before shutting the door.

Once they were gone, the smile dropped from his face as exhaustion overcame him. Thoughts about how tomorrow would go raced through his head as he continued to stand in the center of the room. However, the longer he stood there, the more tired he felt. Instead of fighting it, InuYasha decided that going to bed was the best course of action. The hanyo sighed as he ran his hand over his face before he blew out the candle and laid down for the night. InuYasha yawned as his head hit the pillow and as he pulled the cover up to his chin. With his heavy eyelids, the hanyo fell fast asleep and dreamt the night away.

It didn't take long before the sun peaked over the horizon, bringing the day that InuYasha dreaded to reality: The Coordination Ceremony. As the rays entered through his window, the hanyo blinked the sleep away as he sat up and rubbed his eyes. Once he was awake enough, InuYasha threw the covers back and walked towards the balcony. With a slight push of his hands, the doors opened enough for him to walk out and into the warmth of the early summer sun.

"So… Today's the big day, huh? I wonder what would happen if I ran away?" he said to himself before chuckling and running his claws through his long, silver locs. "Who am I kidding? My pups and Sesshomaru would track me down and literally drag me back to the castle before I got too far. It's best to get it over with now," he sighed. "Well, at least I never have to do this again until that stupid Mating Ceremony," he shuddered.

Suddenly, the sound of knocking on his door caught his attention. With another sigh, he closed the doors after returning to his room.

"Come in." Just then, Jaken and two servants entered the room. The two servants bowed, but Jaken greeted him with a glare, which InuYasha returned. "Oh, it's you. What do you want, ya ugly toad?"

"Oh, you wretched hanyo. If it weren't for Lord Sesshomaru, I'd~"

"You'd what? You and I both know that I'd kick your ass all the way to the Western border. Now, tell me why the fuck you're in my room before I do just that."

Jaken practically blew his top after InuYasha's threat, but the threat of Lord Sesshomaru made him calm down enough to complete his task. The toad rubbed his temples and sighed as he tried to calm down.

"I came here to escort these servants and the supplies to help you get ready for the ceremony," Jaken said through gritted teeth.

The servants sidestepped the angry toad and entered the room with another bow. The first servant was a tall black-and-white female panda dressed in a green kimono to match her eyes. The other was a beautiful female peacock with hazel eyes and black feathers. She was also dressed in a green kimono with hints of blue and gold.

"Lord InuYasha. It's a pleasure to serve you," said the panda.

"Lord Sesshomaru sent us to prepare you for the ceremony," said the peacock.

InuYasha sighed as he ran his fingers through his bangs, "I guess there's no backing out now. Alright, girls, do your worst."

The girls bowed again before they stepped into the bathroom and started the bath. As they prepared the bath, Jaken ushered the other servants into the room to bring in InuYasha's clothing and other supplies before disappearing into the chaos. InuYasha's anxiety spiked as he had so many servants enter his room and rush around him, making him dizzy. Before he knew it, the hanyo was ushered into the bathroom before the door was shut. InuYasha did his best to calm himself, but everything was too much for him. Suddenly, the sound of the panda talking to him caught his attention. He turned his ears towards her, but it didn't help because he didn't hear anything she said.

"I'm sorry, but can you repeat that? I didn't catch it."

"Certainly," she smiled before continuing. "First, we shall help bathe you in the most natural of oils. Then we will wash your hair. Once you've been freshly bathed, then we will do your hair before helping you get dressed. Afterward, Lord Sesshomaru shall come to evaluate you before he escorts you to the ceremony."

"That doesn't sound too bad," he said. The girls nodded before they approached him and tugged on his clothing. However, that was where he drew the line and backed away from them. "Do you mind? I can undress myself."

"Of course, your lordship. We did not mean to offend you. We shall be outside waiting for you to finish getting undressed. Please call for us when you are settled into the water," the peacock said before they exited the room.

InuYasha waited for the door to shut before he sighed with relief. Although it wasn't long, having all those people invade his space was too much for him to handle. Now that he had a moment or two to think and get his bearings, InuYasha did some deep breathing to calm himself. After doing so, he stripped himself of his clothing before slipping into the water. He hissed at how hot it was as he settled into it. Only the sound of water splashing against his skin and hair could be heard throughout the room, calming his senses further. He sighed as he rolled his shoulders and neck before settling back against the stone.

"You guys can come in!"

Not a moment later, the two servants came into the room and began their work. They gathered the oils and placed them along the side of the stone bath. They quickly went to work washing InuYasha's body and hair, being careful not to get any water or oil in his ears. Not being used to the treatment, InuYasha did his best not to lash out at them. So, instead, he counted the seconds until it was over. 1200 seconds. It took the servants 1200 seconds to finish washing every inch of his body, scalp, and hair. 1200 excruciating seconds that he'll never get back but wishes he did. Luckily, the 1200 seconds was over before he had a panic attack. Once those 1200 seconds were over, the servants gathered their supplies and headed for the exit.

"Milord, would you like for us to dry you off, or would you like to do so yourself?" The peacock asked.

"I can do it. Ya ain't gotta baby me."

She nodded, "Of course not. Please come out when you are ready. We will be waiting for you,"

And just like that, he was alone again. Alone with the sound of water splashing around him. Alone with the smells of lavender and other oils and steam in the air. And, most importantly, he was alone with his thoughts again. But before his thoughts could get the better of him, InuYasha quickly got out of the bath and rushed to dry himself off. Afterward, he quickly exited the bathroom and saw that the servants were waiting by the vanity in his room. However, what caught his eye was the magnificent outfit that was laid out for him.

The outfit was a red kimono top, matching pants with gold lining, white cherry blooms on the sleeves, and black boots. It was a beautiful outfit made of pure silk. The hanyo wandered over to the outfit, ran his fingers along the fabric, and gasped at how soft it felt. This was the most elegant and expensive outfit that he would ever wear. It almost seemed too nice and a waste for him to wear, but he would never admit that out loud.

Instead, he turned around and asked, "Where did this outfit come from?"

"Oh, Lord Sesshomaru commissioned the royal outfit maker to create this outfit for you. He wanted it to match his but also look more like your Firerat Robes," The Panda said.

"He… picked this out for me? Just for me?" InuYasha asked.

"Yes. Lord Sesshomaru made sure that you matched his and the royal twins for the ceremony. He's so thoughtful," the peacock said with a dreamy look in her eyes. "You are very fortunate to have been selected as Lord Sesshomaru's mate, Lord InuYasha."

"I'm not his mate."

"But we heard that you will be participating in the ceremony soon after this. Was that not correct?"

"No. I plan on leaving this castle soon with my pups. But don't go telling anyone that. I don't want more rumors being spread throughout the castle and getting back to the bastard," he said.

"Of course, milord. Shall we continue? We don't have much time before Lord Sesshomaru will be here to escort you," said the panda.

"Let's get this over with," he sighed as he sat down at the vanity.

3600 seconds. Another 3600 seconds later, his hair was brushed and braided into a high bun with a golden comb (Hana-kanzashi) into his hair. Finally, they placed a small golden crown on top of his head. Within those 3600 seconds, he was dressed in a silky outfit, and makeup was added for more appealing visuals, not that he needed it. After the servants were done, he turned around and looked at himself in the mirror. His golden eyes widened as they couldn't believe that his reflection was staring back at him. However, he didn't have time to fully admire his reflection when the presence of his brother could be felt right outside of his door.

"Is he ready?" Sesshomaru asked.

"Yes, milord. You may enter," the servants announced.

Sesshomaru didn't waste any time as he entered the room. The servants bowed, but InuYasha was too mesmerized by his brother to say or do anything. No matter how much he hated to admit it, InuYasha had always thought that his elder brother was the most beautiful demon he had ever seen. But, standing in his doorway, the demon was absolutely magnificent. Every strain of his long silver hair glowed in the castle's light. His outfit was like his, except it was his traditional white. Sesshomaru was so beautiful that a blush appeared on InuYasha's cheeks. However, the half-demon was too stunned to say anything or try to hide his blush. So, instead, he stood there with his mouth open and his eyes wide. Sesshomaru found this amusing as he walked over to his younger brother and cupped his jaw to close it.

"It is unbecoming of a young prince to have his mouth gaping open," Sesshomaru smirked.

Those words seemed to break InuYasha from his trance as he shook his head and brushed his brother off.

"I take it that you're here to escort me?"

Sesshomaru nodded before holding out his arm for InuYasha to take it. The blush on the hanyo's cheeks reddened as he took the arm and looked away.

"I ain't a woman. You don't need to do this, ya know,"

"Of course, little brother. But allow me this honor for now."

"If you say so," InuYasha sighed as he closed his eyes, ignoring the powerful beating of his heart, the heated blush on his cheeks, and the giggling of the servants behind him as they exited the room.

As they walked down the hallway, the sound of their boots against the ground echoed loudly in InuYasha's ears. It also didn't help that his feet felt weird and heavy against the cold metal boots.

"Pick your feet up, InuYasha. They shouldn't be dragging on the ground," Sesshomaru lightly scolded.

"I can't help it. These boots are uncomfortable," InuYasha grunted as he tried to walk correctly. "How do you walk in these all day?"

"I've had literal centuries of practice, little brother,"

Luckily, it didn't take long before they reached the doors leading to the ceremony. Waiting outside with smiles on their faces were the twins in their matching clothing. InuKanpeki wore a red kimono with white, gold, and purple designs. InuRida's outfit was white with red, gold, and purple designs that matched Sesshomaru's outfit. Both wore their family crests on their outfits, signifying their unity.

As the couple approached their pups, the twins bowed and greeted their parents respectfully, "Father, Papa, it's wonderful to see both of you on this joyous occasion."

"What are you two doing out here? Shouldn't you be inside?" asked InuYasha.

"We must wait to be announced," said InuRida.

"Yes, we are to be announced one by one before you will be. We're here to celebrate you, after all, Papa," InuKanpeki explained.

"Oh, right. We're celebrating me… right…"

"Don't be nervous, InuYasha," Sesshomaru said.

"I ain't nervous. It's just… a lot. All of this is a lot right now."

"Just take a deep breath, Papa. It'll be over before you know it. And if you forget something, look at Father or me. We'll help you," InuKanpeki smiled as she touched his cheek.

Just as InuYasha was about to thank her, trumpets blared on the other side of the door, announcing the beginning of the ceremony.

"It is time. Everyone in position," Sesshomaru commanded.

The twins moved to stand directly in front of the door as it was opening, revealing a sheer, red curtain. Sesshomaru tried to remove his arm from InuYasha's grasp, but the younger of the two subconsciously held on tighter.

"InuYasha, you must let go."

"Huh?" The hanyo said as he looked down and saw how tightly he was handing onto his elder brother's arm. "Sorry," he whispered as he reluctantly released Sesshomaru's arm with a heated blush on his cheeks.

Just then, the announcer loudly called Sesshomaru's name, introducing him into the room. The tall, elegant, and handsome demon waited patiently as the curtain separated by two servants before graciously walking into the large room full of royal demons. Despite him being the shorter one of the group, InuYasha tried his best to see over his pups as he watched his elder brother grace the room with his presence before sitting at the table at the front of the room. Next, the twins were announced. They, too, graciously walked through the hushed room until they sat to the right of their Father, leaving him a seat.

InuYasha's palms sweated and felt clammy as they rested at his sides. He wanted to wipe them off on his pants, but he was afraid of dirtying the fabric. So, instead, he folded his arms inside his sleeves in front of him. It was at that moment that the announcer finally announced him into the room. His anxiety spiked as every instinct inside of him told him to run away. But he wouldn't run away. He wouldn't bring dishonor to his family by being a coward. No, he would stand tall and show his elder brother, his pups, and all those doubtful demons inside that he was a man and belonged among them. So, with a deep breath, he calmed his nerves enough to finally enter the room.

However, as he walked through the room, the hushed room suddenly felt louder with all the whispering among the demons in the room. Although he couldn't hear what they were saying, InuYasha could tell by the look on their faces that they weren't compliments. He tried his best to keep his focus on his seat right beside his brother. It was the only thing that kept his feet moving. Suddenly, his eyes shifted to the left to Sesshomaru, who was secretly telling him to straighten up. Doing as he was told, InuYasha sighed as he straightened up his back, making himself taller and prouder despite the harsh whispers around him. Luckily, he finally made it to his seat beside Sesshomaru. As gracefully as possible, he sat on the plush cushion and exhaled deeply.

InuRida gave a secret thumbs-up and smiled as InuKanpeki leaned over and whispered, "You're doing great, Papa."

"Thanks."

"Stay focused, InuYasha. The night has only just begun," Sesshomaru nodded.

"Right," he nodded.

"Now, for everyone's attention! Lord InuYasha will stand and make a brief speech before he signs the royal Inu scroll!"

Again, the hanyo took a deep breath and exhaled before he stood for his speech. As he looked around the room, upfront and as close as they could be, InuYasha spotted his friends, Koga and Shippo, and his tutors, Fukuro and Kyoshi, with encouraging smiles on their faces. This, too, made him smile before he began his speech.

"Thank you all for attending the ceremony honoring my coming into the clan. Although you may not know me, know this: I am a warrior through and through. And, as the second lord of these lands, I will bring honor by protecting and fighting all who threaten my clan members. I know that if my father were here, he would know this to be true. However, from his seat in the Heavens, I know he is looking down upon me with pride at the many battles I've won. I shall continue to demonstrate the strength and power of the Inu blood that flows through my body. I shall honor you all."

InuYasha's heart raced as he finished his speech, but his anxiety spiked when no one moved. His golden eyes searched the room for any source of movement. However, just when he thought no one was going to accept him, Koga and Shippo were the first to stand and bow in respect to the new Lord of the West. Right behind them were Fukuro and Kyoshi, who also stood and bowed in respect. Next was InuKimi, who did the same. Then, another set of demons stood, bears from what he could see, and bowed their respects. Afterward, another set of demons stood. This time, they were feline demons who bowed in respect. And, before he knew it, the rest of the demons stood from their seats and bowed in respect towards InuYasha. A smile spread across his face as, for the first time since his awakening, InuYasha felt honored.

But, before the celebration could begin, a servant appeared with a large scroll in his arms. Once he was close enough, the servant unrolled the scroll to reveal a list of names in a tree-like fashion. InuYasha's golden eyes searched for the names until he found his father's, as he was instructed to do. However, something surprised him. Next to his father's name was Sesshomaru's mother's name. But there was another space left blank. Subconsciously, he reached out to touch the space. Although he wasn't entirely sure as to why that space was there, he could only guess whose name was supposed to be there, and it made his heart feel full.

"InuYasha," Sesshomaru whispered, breaking his brother's trance.

"Right, sorry,"

To his right, another servant knelt in front of him with ink and a brush for him to sign his name. Carefully, as if afraid it would shatter in his hands, InuYasha picked up the brush and dipped it in ink. He then took a deep breath and searched for Sesshomaru's name. When he found it, he saw a blank space right next to it and wondered how long it was there, waiting for him to sign it. But that was a question for another day. For now, he would fulfill his royal duty and finally sign his name on the Inu Family Scroll. With graceful brush strokes and much practice with his tutors, InuYasha signed his name right under his father's name and the blank space right next to Sesshomaru's name and above his pups' names. Once he put the brush down, InuYasha let out a relieved sigh as all the demons in the room bowed in respect again. As taught to him, he bowed back, giving his thanks before he sat back down on his cushion.

"You did very well, little brother," Sesshomaru whispered, still looking like the natural statue he was.

"Hn. Is that your way of saying that you're proud of me?" InuYasha smirked.

Sesshomaru hummed his answer low enough for InuYasha and their twins, who were trying not to smile, to hear. Although the daiyōkai didn't say anything, his answer was loud enough for the hanyo to understand and fill his heart with an odd sense. As far back as he could remember, Sesshomaru had never even wanted him alive, let alone be proud of him. But as he sat here between that same elder brother and his pups, something felt different between them. InuYasha couldn't exactly put his finger on it, but it was a warm, happy feeling. As he reached up to feel his heart practically pounding out of his chest, the hanyo realized that this night would be filled with a lot of firsts for him.

The rest of the night went well into the late night, and InuYasha practically got bored to tears. After he signed his name, the banquet began. They were served some of the richest and fanciest food he had ever eaten. He ate until his belly was full, but when he tried to sneak more, Sesshomaru and InuKanpeki scolded him about overeating. Once dinner was over, wine was served as people, one at a time, came up to him and spoke with him, making InuYasha feel uncomfortable. Each demon, one fake one after another, sang their praises of him. They talked about his previous battles, how commendable his speech was, and how handsome he was. Any other demon would think that their compliments were genuine, but InuYasha's nose told him otherwise. The line of lying demons went on forever before he finally saw some familiar faces.

"InuYasha, you did very well with this being your first royal affair," InuKimi smiled as she approached them.

"Mother, why were you not the first in line to congratulate him?" Sesshomaru asked with a raised eyebrow.

"Oh, I wanted to wait until after you heard all of those fake complaints to be made and over before giving you a real compliment."

"You could smell them too?" InuYasha asked.

"Of course, dear. My nose has been bothering me all night with these stuffy, fake demons talking to me. But don't let them bother you, darling. Keep holding your head up high and ignore the rest. It would be unbecoming of you as a young lord, omega, and the future mate of my son to take their lies to heart."

"Hey, I never agreed to be Sesshomaru's mate. I told you that," InuYasha said.

"Of course, dear. Whatever you say. I shall take my leave now. I'm sure that you have others who would love to pay you more genuine compliments," she smirked as she nodded towards his awaiting tutors and friends.

"Lord InuYasha, you were magnificent. You really were paying attention in your lessons after all," Fukuro smiled as he approached their table.

"Yes, your speech was elegantly spoken, and I have yet to see you break your etiquette lessons. You've made us very proud," said Kyoshi.

"Thank you. I appreciate everything that you've done for and taught me," InuYasha nodded.

Just then, Koga and Shippo rushed up to the table, practically knocking over Kyoshi with eager smiles on their faces.

"InuYasha! We're so happy for you! You're finally a part of the Inu clan, just like you've always wanted!" Shippo shouted as he bounced on his toes.

"Yeah, who knew that you had all this grace inside of you? Your tutors must have had a hell of a time teaching your illiterate, immature ass from scratch," Koga teased.

"Just wait until this ceremony is over, wolf breath, so I can show you who's immature and illiterate," InuYasha growled as a vein popped from his temple.

"Stop antagonizing him, Koga. It's his big night," scolded Shippo.

"Oh, come on. What fun is it to be friends with someone if you can't antagonize them from time to time?"

"There is a time and a place for such things, Lord Koga," InuKanpeki said as she sipped her tea.

"Oh, when are you two going to call me Uncle Koga? I think after being friends with your Papa for so many years, dontchya think I deserve it?"

"No!" everyone around the table shouted, deflating the poor wolf's ego.

"Well then, I at least deserve a drink with the newest Inu lord, no?"

This piqued InuYasha's interest. Other than that time in the forest where all his friends were forcibly drunk, he had never tasted alcohol before, despite wanting to. And what better time to do so than at a ceremony with his friends? Before he knew it, he was turned toward Sesshomaru, practically begging for permission. The daiyōkai sighed as he felt his brother's please hit his senses. A part of him wanted to watch over InuYasha and protect him. The other part knew that he needed to give his brother some freedom. The tighter he hung on to his younger brother, the more he'd rebel and the sooner he'd want to leave. The same part of Sesshomaru who wished to protect InuYasha was the same part of him that didn't want to lose his little brother. So, against his raging instincts, Sesshomaru granted his permission.

"You may go, InuYasha. I expect you to behave,"

"What trouble could I possibly get into with these two beside me?" InuYasha asked.

Sesshomaru hummed his answer before sipping his tea. Without another word, InuYasha took his brother's silent permission, practically jumped up from the table, and walked off with his friends. Although he wanted to stop them, Sesshomaru stilled his nerves and silently watched his brother walk away. However, the struggle to control his impulse raged within his soul even after InuYasha disappeared from his sight.

It didn't take long for the boys to get in trouble, as Sesshomaru predicted. They snuck off to a secluded part of the castle after stealing alcohol from the cellar and drank their night away. Since InuYasha had never had any alcohol willingly, he was the lightweight of the group and didn't know how to pace himself. So, after one bottle of wine, he was very wasted and venting to his friends about his time in the castle.

"And another thing! Who does that bastard think he is, telling me what to do all the time?! He ain't my father! And yet, everyone expects me to be his mate?! Give me a fucking break!" InuYasha shouted as he took his final swing of wine. "Welp, this bottle is done. We need some more."
"I think you need to slow down there, Muttface," Koga laughed as he leaned back onto his hands and laughed.

"I still can't believe that you're supposed to mate with Sesshomaru, of all people. That's just… just…"

"Wrong? I know," InuYasha sighed as he leaned back on his hands, too.

"Well, yes, but not in the way you're thinking," said Shippo as he finished his last sip.

"What do ya mean?" asked InuYasha.

"To you, it might be wrong because it's your bother. But in demon society, that doesn't mean anything since we don't suffer the ugly defects from incest. But it's wrong because didn't he hate you at one point? Like tried to kill you on several occasions?" asked Koga.

"Yeah, he did. But since I've been back, he's been nicer to me for some reason. It's strange,"

"May he finally see you as a potential mate since you've already proven to produce powerful heirs? That's important in demon society, especially if you're a ruler," Koga said.

"Yeah, but Lord Sesshomaru already has his heirs, both genders, too. Does he really need a mate?" asked InuYasha.

"Not necessarily. Since certain demons do not reproduce as fast as humans, they forever outnumber us. So, some demons require their rulers to take a mate to produce more. Or the ruler could take a mate that they're interested in, like when your dad wanted to take your mom instead of staying with Sesshomaru's mother," Koga explained.

"Well, I guess I don't actually have a choice,"

"What do you mean by that, InuYasha?" asked Shippo.

"I guess after I gave birth to the twins, I lost too much blood and was dying. So, to save me, Sesshomaru bit my neck and left his mark on me. Sometimes, I wish he'd just let me die. I was sealed in another tree for 150 years. I've missed so much and can't get it back," he sighed as he lay down on the ground.

"But then you wouldn't have gotten to meet your twins. Isn't that important to you?" asked Koga.

"Of course it is! I… really miss our friends, ya know."

"I know. I miss them, too, especially Kagome. She always had the best snacks," Shippo sighed.

Just then, the door opened to reveal an annoyed Sesshomaru, causing everyone but InuYasha to jump and straighten up. However, when InuYasha saw his brother, he gave a loud, annoyed sigh and rolled onto his side with his eyes closed.

"InuYasha, what do you think you're doing?" asked Sesshomaru.

"Minding my business. You should try it sometime."

"Lord Sesshomaru, it's nice to see you again. What brings you here?" Shippo asked nervously.

The daiyōkai only glared at them, forcing both Koga and Shippo to shut up and realize that they were no longer needed. So, the two cleaned up their mess and scooted around Sesshomaru before saying their goodbyes.

"Well, InuYasha, I think we should be heading to bed,"

"Shippo's right. It's been a long night, and I think we should head to bed. See ya tomorrow, Muttface."

"Wait, don't go," InuYasha said weakly, but it fell on deaf ears. Once the room was empty except for Sesshomaru and himself, the hanyo huffed as he rolled over and looked up at his older brother, "What the hell do you want?"

"InuYasha, I've come to collect you."

"For fucking why? I was having a good time with my friends until you came along." Sesshomaru glared as he looked down at the drunk hanyo. "Glare all you want. I ain't going nowhere," he said as he folded his arms with another huff.

Before he knew it, Sesshomaru bent down, lifted the stubborn hanyo into his arms, and headed for the door.

"Hey! What the hell are you doing?! Put me down, you bastard!"

"Do you want the entire castle to see you like this?"

"No…"

"Then be quiet."

InuYasha loudly groaned as he crossed his arms and leaned further into Sesshomaru's shoulder. As the daiyōkai carried him to his room, InuYasha grumbled and cursed the entire way but remained still despite wanting to make things harder for his elder brother. Luckily, it didn't take long for them to reach his bedroom. It also helped that Sesshomaru saved him from being seen by anyone other than the servants. Well, at least the servants don't gossip when the royals are around, so he doesn't have to hopefully hear about this for a little while.

Once they got to his room, Sesshomaru put InuYasha on his feet and motioned for him to open the door. However, the stubborn hanyo kept his arms folded and turned his nose up at the door.

"InuYasha, it's time for bed."

"No."

"You shall do as I say, or else," Sesshomaru glared.

"I don't have to listen to a damn thing you say, bastard. If you want me to go to bed, then you're gonna have to make me," InuYasha glared back.

"As you wish," Sesshomaru said before he bent down and tossed InuYasha over his shoulder.

"Hey! Put me down before I rip your head off! You hear me, ya bastard! I'm serious!" yelled InuYasha as he punched his brother's back as hard as he could.

Unfortunately, his threats weren't taken seriously as the daiyōkai opened his brother's door and entered the dark room. InuYasha continued his assault until they reached the side of his bed. Once there, Sesshomaru gently put his brother down and glared at him.

However, InuYasha ignored him in favor of caring for his bruised fists, "Man, hitting you is like hitting a wall. Just what the fuck are you made of anyway?"

"It's time for bed. I will have no more disobedience from you this night."

"Or fucking what? You'll lock me in my room and punish me? Get over yourself, Sesshomaru. You may be the ruler of the West, but you don't control anything about me, so kindly fuck off," InuYasha growled as he turned his back on his elder brother with his arms still folded in his sleeves.

Having enough of his brother's attitude, Sesshomaru pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed, "I don't understand you."

"Of course you don't; you never tried."

"InuYasha~"

"Don't. Just don't. Don't say anything. You never tried to understand me, but I wanted to understand you. I don't know what I did to you besides being born, but I regret it. I regret being born. I regret being your brother. I regret that we fucked, and I regret being here. The only thing I don't regret is our pups. They are the only reason I'm even still here. But now that the ceremony is over, I'll be out of here, and I'm taking our pups with me. I want them with me. You'll be fine on your own."

"You are not serious."

"And why the hell do you think that? I have never needed you, and I don't need you now. Thank you for saving me, but I refuse to be indebted to someone who doesn't even want me around. It's not like you enjoy my presence anyway."

At that moment, InuYasha turned around and stared into his brother's eyes. Golden eyes met golden eyes as they reflected in the moonlight. Although InuYasha's cheeks were flushed from the alcohol and the anger in his voice, his heart was heavy with sorrow to know that the silence between them was suffocating. The air around him made his heart chock with sobs as he knew the truth. Sesshomaru didn't care about him, and he never would. InuYasha knew that he would never mean anything to Sesshomaru, and that hurt worse than any wound he'd ever had.

Without another word, InuYasha turned his back on his brother and said, "Don't let the door hit you on the way out."

Sesshomaru didn't say anything or move. Instead, he stood and looked at the back of InuYasha's head, digesting what his brother had said. Finally, after a while of just staring at his brother, Sesshomaru turned away and left the room with InuYasha's words replying in his head. However, he missed the silent tear that trickled down a tanned cheek as a sigh left full lips. From that moment on, both men knew that it was going to be a long night.

…

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To Be Continued…