The Winter That Brought A Stray.
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; all credit goes to Rumiko Takahashi.
Notes: Hey all, it's been a while! I just want to warn you that while there is no smut in this chapter, the following ones will contain some dark and intense themes.
If it's not your thing I would consider skipping the following few chapters upon the first announcement, as I won't be putting warnings throughout the story because it's distracting.
There's also a few new things! This tale is very AU and will blend together a lot of different Asian cultures but be primarily set in a wuxia/xianxia style like the original three chapters.
As I have said in the summary, Kagome will have different suitors popping up, don't let that discourage you because Sesshomaru is the ML of this story!
-Through The Skies of The Western Lands-
Feathers of sparkling flurries swirled around Sesshomaru as he sailed through the open air with Kagome cradled securely in his arms. Each delicate snowflake shimmered like tiny stars, dancing in the light of the sun, casting glimmers of magic in their wake.
Kagome raised her hand to shield her gaze from the brilliant sunlight, and as she did, her heart soared at the sight beside them. A flock of majestic Red Crown Cranes gilded gracefully through the frosty air, their crowns radiating with an ethereal glow.
The legendary birds moved in elegant unison, soaring through the winter sky with grace and beauty, leaving trails of sparkling ice behind them as if the very essence of winter blessed their enchanting existence.
Kagome's face lit up with wonder, and in that moment, she felt attuned to the magic of this new world around her. A world that belonged to the lord who held her in his strong arms. It was a place she would soon be a part of, even if for a little while. The small sense of belonging eased her troubled mind some.
"Hark, princess, there lie the lowlands of the palace," her escort remarked, drawing her attention away from the birds.
Sesshomaru gestured with his eyes toward the massive mountain that came into view. Kagome followed his gaze and marveled at the grand violet formation in the distance.
He took great pleasure in the princess's reactions to the vastness of his realm, stretching towards the golden horizon. Lowering their altitude, he cherished each shift of her expression.
Herds of Sika deer wandered through the snowy foothills, while crystalline rivers glimmered as they flowed through quaint villages, creating a living work of art amidst the purple mountains.
A gift from the Gods—that's how Kagome would describe the Western Lands. She used her ki to sense the collective life forces emanating from below. The energy flowed over her, brushing against her glowing ruby cheeks and causing the stray wisps of her bangs to dance along her brow.
"Life here is so different from my homeland; it feels so peaceful," the princess said with admiration, her blue eyes sparkling with wonder as she took in the breathtaking landscape.
Sesshomaru felt a swell of pride as they ascended higher into the sky, approaching a massive ring of thick clouds. The clouds loomed dark and intimidating, making Kagome grip the demon lord's robes for security.
She noticed a sudden increase in Sesshomaru's speed, and their hair whipped wildly in the wind behind them. Kagome stared at him with concern, but he remained perfectly calm as their clothes flapped violently in the gusts surrounding them.
As they soared through the cold mist, Kagome grew disoriented from the rapid shift in altitude. She couldn't tell what was up or down in the swirling vapor around them.
Sesshomaru felt her shivering more intensely and heard her gasp desperately. His demonic hearing detected her heartbeat quickening beneath her breast.
"Bare with it for just a little butterfly. The palace waits just beyond this cluster of nimbostratus," he assured her.
Kagome nodded, trusting him as she buried her face into his neck. She inhaled his calming scent, a blend of juniper berries, mikan, and hinoki.
Unbeknownst to her, her fake fiancé was struggling to suppress the desire bubbling up in his chest. They were bound by a contract filled with rules, and his pride wouldn't allow him to be the one to break them first.
As the demon and the princess emerged from the layer of clouds, the grand palace of the West came into view on the horizon. The large red gates of the ancient structure were lined with ice, sparkling mysteriously in the sunlight.
"We have arrived, my lady. Welcome to The Palace of the Western Territories," he murmured softly into her delicate ear, his breath sending a shiver down her spine. Kagome leaned up slightly, her heart racing as she locked her tender gaze on him.
"Amazing," she whispered, her voice barely above a breath, captivated by the way the warm light enveloped them, enhancing the sharp angles of his handsome features.
The air between them sparkled, radiating with unspoken emotions as she felt the closeness of their lips, a grand desire urging them to close the distance between them.
Sesshomaru was entranced by her shimmering blue eyes, wishing to drown in their brilliance. The way her thick lashes framed her gaze made his heart stir. He leaned closer, the world around them fading away, and in a soft, swift motion, their lips met—an explosion of warmth and destiny.
A cloudy vision of her and him played out in their minds simultaneously. A happily married couple appeared, deeply in love with one another. Sesshomaru privately hoped this fake union would yield fruit, while Kagome realized it was a reflection of their heart's desire.
No way, did she want this?
Feeling troubled by this premonition, Kagome couldn't bear to meet his seductive gaze any longer and averted her eyes to the palace with a bright blush.
Sesshomaru resisted the urge to laugh at her as she comically stuttered and quickly pointed at the impressive structure before them.
"So this is the Western Palace," she said, beyond impressed. The air was thick now, and she felt she could breathe easier. The land seemed to hum with a mysterious magic she wasn't familiar with.
"Oh? What is this?" she asked curiously, reaching out to touch a seemingly invisible force.
The translucent wall of gold that appeared before her fluctuated at her touch but did not harm her. Kagome took it as a sign of introduction when the energy caressed her back, and she smiled at the gesture.
Sesshomaru was surprised that she could see it so clearly, as even most yokai could not perceive its existence. Once again, the girl amazed him with her abilities, many of which she was unaware of.
"It is a timeless ward of protection created by the spirits of my ancestors. The land embraces you," he said, his voice steady, before soaring onward with her.
-The Western Palace, Servant's Passage-
A young scholar, his heart racing with anticipation, darted down the shimmering ivory and gold brick path of the pavilion. His dark noble robes billowed dramatically behind him, and his fluffy black tail danced as he clutched fresh parchment and gleaming quills in his eager little arms.
As he sped past, a startled scullery maid, balancing a heavy basket of linens, caught sight of the whirlwind of energy rushing towards his teacher's study.
"Itou, tardiness is no excuse for breaking the palace rules!" Aiko chided, her voice firm yet melodic. The badger demoness, known for her humble features and unwavering demeanor, always found the opportunity to scold him whenever their paths crossed in the grand halls.
The kit hesitated, her words churning up annoyance within him. His fluffy black ears drooped under the weight of her lengthy reprimand, and a frown tugged at his lips as the brisk winter air teased at his flushed red cheeks. The chill seemed to amplify her scolding, making him feel even smaller under her intense gaze.
As an unusual snowstorm swept over the land, the envoys of the Yuki clan arrived at the castle, a reminder that Winter often follows those who are guided by Kuraokami's influence.
The little kit, caught in the moment, couldn't help but be captivated by the frozen beauty surrounding him. Though the maid's admonishments were well-meaning, his heart was drawn to the vibrant, multi-colored leaves and the delicate patterns of frosted grasses and shrubs.
For Itou, who was born in a season of warmth and light, the sight of the snow held a special significance. It enveloped the landscape in a serene embrace, evoking cherished memories of his late mother. He fondly recalled her fur, so shiny and beautiful, and in those moments of solitude amidst the swirling snow, he found solace—an echo of the love that still surrounded him, despite the chill of Winter.
"- and that is why we must uphold the rules and bring honor to our families! I expect you to remember what I've said, little fox." Aiko concluded firmly, then strode past him toward their lordship's quarters.
Itou noticed something in the swirling gray clouds. The boy rubbed his eyes with his decorative sleeve and focused intently on that section of the sky. His rounded black brows shot up, his black ears perked up, and his golden eyes widened in surprise.
Amid the whimsical afternoon sky, he saw the Lord of the Shiro flying high. However, as he squinted, he discerned the form of a woman in his arms.
"Lord Sesshomaru," said the kit in confusion. Then, he turned to the maid, who was almost out of earshot. "Look, Miss Aiko! The Lord has returned! He has also brought a woman with him!"
The maid lost her grip on her basket of freshly pressed linens as she stared at the two figures passing by overhead. A sly smirk crossed her face as she considered what a hot piece of gossip such a sight would fetch. Quickly, she scooped up her dropped belongings.
Itou watched the maid, who had just reprimanded him, break the very rule she was trying to enforce as she hurried off toward the lord's pavilion.
-The Peach Pavillion-
The demon lord and the princess arrived in the snowy yard of his pavilion, surrounded by a swirl of sparkling, icy feathers.
Sesshomaru's black boots crunched into the fresh snow as he looked down at the treasure he held in his arms. Kagome buried her face in the crook of his shoulder to shield herself from the stinging wind.
A smirk curled on the demon lord's lips as he observed her antics. He leaned his head closer to hers, his nose brushing against her hair, and his lips lightly kissed the outer shell of her ear.
"We have arrived, welcome to my home, little butterfly." His smooth voice alerted Kagome, and she timidly raised her head.
At that moment, their eyes met, bright doe-like blues catching glimmering gold. A winter chill clung to their lips as they shared a breath.
Kagome gazed at the handsome demon with conflicting thoughts. Now that she was in his domain, she must abide by the agreement between them and show him the utmost respect.
It was easy for her to do this, as his lands clearly demonstrated his sense of duty and honor to those under him. The flutter of her heart made the girl nearly leap out of his arms, for she could sense her attraction to him increase exponentially.
"I humbly thank you, Lord Sesshomaru. The South is indebted to you in more ways than one," she said warmly. A breeze swept over them both. Hair black and silver danced playfully with each other in the wind.
"Lord Sesshomaruuuu!"
The tender moment was abruptly interrupted by the distant screech of a familiar kappa, followed by a frantic group of servants rushing behind him. Jaken and the crowd trudged quickly through the crisp snow of the courtyard toward the lord and his guest.
At first, the sight of so many different demons frightened Kagome, causing her saintly nature to surface. She hid her face behind her sleeve, unable to conceal her discontent.
Having worked in the medical sector back home, she knew all too well what a group of demons could do to a small human like herself. Sesshomaru sensed her unease and frowned slightly, realizing he would need to calm her fears about demonkind.
"Milord, do you have any idea how long we have been searching for you? You vanished before we could reach a solution! Must you put such a strain on your poor retainer's heart?" Jaken complained, while the advisors standing in the snow behind him nodded in agreement.
The little kappa suddenly paused, his yellow eyes widening as he noticed a female form wrapped in Sesshomaru's arms, hiding her face behind her sleeve.
"I swear no harm will come to you, my beloved bride-to-be. Let the world behold your beauty," Sesshomaru whispered, his voice eased her fears.
With a deep breath, Kagome slowly lowered her arm, unveiling her face to the eager crowd ahead. Her eyes shimmered like ocean gems in the pure, snowy light of midday, enhancing her regal presence.
Jaken's heart raced at the sight of the innocent maiden, her grace enchanting all who gazed upon her. Meanwhile, the servants murmured among themselves, their curiosity piqued by the closeness between her and their lord.
It was an embrace that felt far too intimate for mere strangers, leaving the little kappa bewildered as h,e to,o pondered the true nature of their connection.
As he caught a whiff of an intriguing fragrance, his beak twitched in curiosity. A delicate sweetness enveloped him, intertwining with gentle floral notes that danced in the air. It was unmistakable—the alluring scent of a human female!
"Milord, may I ask, who is this person?" The retainer boldly posed the question that lingered on the lips and in the minds of those behind him.
"To all present! Behold my intended, Princess Kagome of the South. You will extend her the same respect you afford me," Sesshomaru commanded firmly, addressing the retainer and pavilion staff.
Kagome felt her heart skip a beat at the mention but quickly forced these feelings down. She gave him a coy smile, which he returned in some small semblance. After all, they were only pretending to be a couple for mutual benefit.
Understanding Sesshomaru's intense aversion to relationships between humans and yōkai, the crowd gasped in unison. The kappa's beak dropped in shock, but he quickly regained his composure and lowered his head.
Naturally, Milord wouldn't succumb to the whims of that horrid human wench! He will undoubtedly share his reasons with me later, the retainer thought with certainty
"My beloved shall dwell here in the magnificent Peony Pavilion, occupying the chamber right next to mine!" he proclaimed with an air of authority. "Now, all of you, disperse at once and prepare it for her!"
"Yes milord! As you command!" the kappa exclaimed, rising from his kneeling position and spinning on his heel, ready to spring into action.
However, a sudden realization struck him: the servants were frozen in place, their eyes wide with shock. Jaken inhaled sharply, feeling the flames of anger begin to blaze within him.
"You insubordinate worms!" he bellowed, his voice echoing through the hall. "What are you all staring at? You heard our lord! Scatter at once and return to your tasks! Ready the empty quarters for Milord's bride!"
Chaos erupted in the courtyard as servants and dignitaries scrambled in a flurry of fear, rushing back to their posts at the fiery retainer's command.
Kagome giggled as the demons scattered about at the screeches of the retainer. Their frantic antics were hilarious—who knew a little toad could send such fear through them?
Amid the frenzy, Sesshomaru cast a glance at Jaken, his eyes glinting with approval, making the little imp swell with pride.
"I'll prepare the small receiving room in the nearby gardens for your use," Jaken declared, his voice brimming with determination. "It will be stocked with warming refreshments for you both to enjoy while we make ready the lady's rooms!"
Sesshomaru had another announcement, his voice steady and commanding. "One more thing, Jaken. This morning, a phoenix (letter) arrived from the outpost near Akainu, bearing news! My brother is returning today from his six-month-long conquest. See to it that the servants create a lavish lunch spread in the great hall for our triumphant reunion!"
Jaken's face immediately tensed at those words, and he gulped audibly, as if he'd just swallowed a goldfish. He knew this news would not sit well with the Lady Mother, whose plans were about to fall to pieces.
The thought of the demoness' failure was like gaining an ear that the person who recently stole one's art and passed it off as their own met an unfortunate demise.
And with the person she hated most returning to the palace? Oh, that was the cherry on top of his delightfully chaotic sundae! He couldn't help but snicker, rubbing his webbed hands together cheesily.
This is better than a front-row seat at a Kabuki theater! he thought, imagining the delicious melodrama that was about to unfold.
"Yes milord! I shall do so right away!"
The retainer bowed once more before shuffling away from the couple. He charged through the snow toward the scampering lot of servants waving his demonic cane.
Aiko crouched among the bustling servants, straining to catch every whisper from the couple. This information could be her ticket out of the washmaid life.
As the little kappa shouted orders, Aiko seized her chance. She slipped quietly through the dim corridor toward Lady Kimi's residence, silently praying for protection from the trouble she was about to cause.
End.
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Until next time, GR.