InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A lifetime of Illusion ❯ Chapter Two ( Chapter 2 )

Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha.

 

 

 

A Lifetime of Illusion

 

 

Chapter 2

 

 

Inuyasha immediately came back to her senses when Sesshoumaru's eyes turned red. She moved quickly and grasped his wrist in a vice like grip, her hand glowing with icy blue spiritual energy. It burned Sesshoumaru's skin but effectively brought him out of his lust induced daze.

 

Crimson eyes turned gold once again and the Daiyoukai observed her glowing hand with curiosity. The burning in his wrist didn't bother him; he was intrigued by the way that light danced around Inuyasha's hand. This felt different from a miko's or a monk's power. It wasn't holy. The touch of that power was not scorching but glacial. It was so cold that it burning his skin in a very different manner.

 

Sesshoumaru was distracted from his inspection when Inuyasha pulled her hand back abruptly. The Daiyoukai raised a brow at her angry expression. He smirked; wondering if she knew that he had noticed her momentary submission. Sesshoumaru knew that Inuyasha wouldn't easily be tamed. He had no hopes of completely dominating Inuyasha but the thought of conquering her was delicious.

 

“Mind yourself Sesshoumaru.”

 

Her eyes were angry, glaring at him and flashing in defiance. Those molten pools of amber had the capability of bringing even the most powerful demon to his knees. Sesshoumaru felt his loins stir at the mere sight of her, so close.

 

The Daiyoukai observed her for a moment longer before standing. With hooded eyes he watched as she observed him warily. Licking his lips he allowed himself to savor the taste of her blood still lingering in his mouth. He let his desire show in his eyes, gaining almost a cruel sort of satisfaction in her discomfort.

 

“I am not without honor Inuyasha. I will not attempt a taboo and further blacken the name of our clan. However, I will not be a fool and let you fall in the hands of another.” The elegant demon lord smirked at Inuyasha's narrowed eyed look.

 

Inuyasha snorted and crossed her arms. A gesture that was not uncommon for her but she somehow made it look graceful. Standing up, she glared at him, “Highly unlikely… bastard!”

 

The Daiyoukai raised a brow at the deliberate utterance of the insult. It was as though she had forced herself to utter that word. Her slight form was deceiving; in a normal wafuku she looked deceptively fragile. Sesshoumaru reached forward and tipped her chin up, not letting his fingers linger over her skin. “I will be taking he anklet with me, the spell has lost its use.”

 

“I guess I have no choice.” Looking at Sesshoumaru she sighed, she didn't want to say it, “Thank you.”

 

“Hmm.” He muttered with some amusement. He knew what she was thanking him for. He walked towards the bamboo door but paused in mid stride. Looking over his shoulder he narrowed his eyes on her, “I could easily make you the Lady of the West, you have no power to oppose me. However, since you are the sister that I have desired for a long time, I shall let you choose. Do not take this freedom lightly little one.”

 

Inuyasha stiffened and glared at him. “You do not own me and you do not have a say in my personal affairs, Sesshoumaru.”

 

“Quite the contrary, baby sister, this Sesshoumaru has every right. It is correct that I do not own you, but it is also correct that I can overrule all your decisions if it saves you from being deceived. That is the Youkai Law Inuyasha and you must follow it.” Inuyasha stilled and looked at him in the eye, “And I am more secure with you than anyone else? You, who has until now attempted to end my life countless times? Do not jest Sesshoumaru. With you I would live a life of a Shrine Maiden with privileges, nothing more and nothing less.”

 

“Your demands are unrealistic.” Sesshoumaru stated stoically.

 

“Demand for love and care is never unrealistic but alas, how would you understand?” Inuyasha hissed wrathfully. “A sister is what you craved isn't it? She isn't a disgrace to the clan even if she is a mere hanyou. In your quest for perfection you disregard what makes demons different from animals. I demand nothing of you for I am not foolish enough to assume that you'll ever possess a heart Sesshoumaru. The one who finally mates you will have to be a saint or a whore.”

 

Sesshoumaru tensed, Inuyasha's biting words held years of suppressed pain and resentment. However his shoulders soon relaxed, “You would rather mate someone that loves you than someone that your heart desires?”

 

Inuyasha nearly stumbled at the question, her eyes going wide in shock. Panic swelled in her chest at his words but she held herself with the grace and dignity befitting a princess. “Heart's desires cannot always be fulfilled. I would rather love someone who needs that love than someone who disregards it for what it is and what it represents. You can go on living with your strengths, I am happy with my weaknesses.” With that said, she turned her back on him.

 

Sesshoumaru lingered there for a moment, gazing at the stubborn hanyou before his lips twisted into a slight smirk, “How long will you resist the call of your soul when it is so loud that it deafens me.”

 

Inuyasha closed her eyes against his words, her mind mocking her for her incompetence. She couldn't block out what she felt as he did. No, it wasn't that simple for her. “Then I'll turn deaf to that call. Close myself off from others just as you have so next time no one will be able to read me as easily as you already have.”

 

Sesshoumaru raised a brow. Inuyasha was being difficult but it didn't bother him. It would be uncharacteristic of her if she was some simpering female. “This argument is pointless. No matter how much you change yourself little one. You are still Inuyasha and remember that.” With that said Sesshoumaru walked out of the small house, leaving Inuyasha to brood.

 

Xx

 

Kagome sat up in attentiveness when Sesshoumaru left the hut and came towards them. She wasn't certain if it was such a good idea to leave Inuyasha alone with Sesshoumaru when she was obviously weak. Sesshoumaru seemed to have the right intentions but Kagome didn't trust him one bit. Not with Inuyasha.

 

The reincarnated miko sighed and looked up at the slowly darkening sky. She finally understood the reason for that bewildering conversation Inuyasha and she had a few months ago. It was that conversation that convinced her that she and Inuyasha could never be together.

 

*I am sorry Kagome…*

 

She still remembered the look of extreme guilt on Inuyasha's face when she confessed her love.

 

*We can never be together. I am not what I seem to be. Please Kagome, understand that we can never be more than friends.*

 

She had protested. She had screamed at Inuyasha with rage and betrayal glittering in her eyes. She had said so many horrible things to her. She had attacked Inuyasha with vicious words. The hanyou hadn't retaliated that night. Inuyasha had been patient, listening to all her insults with such a painful expression.

 

Kagome had rejoiced in that pain. She was inflicting just as much pain as Inuyasha had caused her. She was trying to get rid of the anger, jealousy and shame that had built up in her heart. But then Inuyasha had embraced her. Whispering in her ear, her words held no venom, no anger. Inuyasha seemed to understand that she was in pain. She seemed to understand what Kagome was going through.

 

*I would have loved you Kagome, if I had the privilege to do so. You have to trust me Kagome. This is for your own good. Perhaps one day I'll be able to tell you the reason. Perhaps then you will understand. But I cannot just keep leading you on like this.*

 

*What is this big secret Inuyasha! Why are you hiding from me? I love you! Didn't you hear? I love you and whatever you say is not going to change my feelings for you.*

 

*Perhaps. Perhaps your feelings won't change but I refuse to let you ruin your life for me Kagome. I had said the same thing to Kikyou but she insisted and look what happened in the end.*

 

Kagome wanted to protest so much. She wanted to remain angry at Inuyasha but she couldn't. The hanyou had such a pleading expression on that beautiful face that Kagome couldn't hold onto her anger.

 

*Trust me Kagome. Once you find out the truth you'll be happy with my decision.*

 

For the first time she had taken her words seriously. Inuyasha was bound to act immature from time to time but Kagome knew that she was the wisest of them all. She would always make the correct decisions when it came to their own survival and well being.

 

Kagome had followed her advice and accepted the proposal from Hojo. She had consulted Inuyasha a few weeks after their discussion. The hanyou had been a curt when she said that Hojo will have to prove his worth.

 

Now that she knew the reason behind Inuyasha's stubbornness, Kagome didn't know what to think. The change in gender had by no means affected her feelings for Inuyasha. Much to her dismay, she realized that she had fallen in love with Inuyasha and it didn't matter what or who she was.

 

She was grateful though. She was grateful that Inuyasha had enough courage and honor to let her down gently.

 

“Prince Kouga, I trust you to protect Inuyasha until she is ready to return to the palace with me.” Kagome started out of her thoughts at the odd command. She was very certain that Kouga would be irritated by Sesshoumaru's commanding tone. However, she was surprised when Kouga bowed, “I understand Lord Sesshoumaru. I assure you; no harm will come to her.”

 

Kagome nearly smiled at the accessing look Sesshoumaru gave Kouga. It was cute to see that Sesshoumaru was being so protective. It was not obvious though. His face was still a stony mask, his eyes were still impassive. But to her it was clear that Sesshoumaru was reluctant to leave.

 

“Very well then” Sesshoumaru murmured finally. “Keep her away from Naraku at all costs. He will not let such an opportunity pass.”

 

All of them immediately tensed at Naraku's name. They had nearly forgotten that the fiend would try everything in his power to take advantage of such a situation.

 

It suddenly occurred to Kagome that the moment they found out Inuyasha was a girl, they started underestimating her. That thought disturbed her a little. Why would Inuyasha need Kouga's protection when she was clearly more powerful? Inuyasha had won countless battles before and managed to survive through all of them. Moreover, the spell had suppressed her powers not increased them. That meant that Inuyasha was even more powerful than before.

 

Inuyasha was not fragile. She was more than capable of taking care of herself. It angered Kagome that they'd forget that so easily.

 

However, she didn't say anything. After all, this was Sesshoumaru.

 

She was distracted from her thoughts when Inuyasha walked out of the door. The change in appearance was what she noticed first. Inuyasha was breathtakingly beautiful. That much was very obvious. As a male, Inuyasha was very handsome, as a female her features gained a softer, more effeminate look.

 

Her tall frame was slender yet it didn't seem fragile to her. The diamond shape mark stood out proudly on her forehead somewhat cradled by wavy bangs. A lifetime worth of battle experience had blessed Inuyasha with a lithe body and fluid grace. Kagome didn't blame those village men who turned their heads to ogle at Inuyasha.

 

She sighed as silence reigned amongst them the moment everyone noticed the hanyou. Inuyasha was limping as she came forward and narrowed her eyes on Kouga who tried to help. Kagome held back a smirk.

 

The Princess of west crossed her arms and looked at all her friends with serious golden eyes. One secret she had kept all her life was out. Everyone she had ever cared about in her life was in front of her. The first person from her pack to look at her in the eye was Kagome. Inuyasha almost smiled. Kagome's eyes were filled with acceptance. She didn't mind that Inuyasha had lied to her, she understood.

 

Inuyasha started to feel some of the tension leave her body as she turned to look at Sango next. The demon slayer gave Inuyasha a slight, understanding smile while her dark eyes held warmth.

 

When Inuyasha turned her gaze to Miroku, she left her brow twitch. With hooded gaze she observed as Miroku steadily moved his eyes all over her body, a rather lecherous grin lighting his face. Inuyasha left the hair on her neck raise at the stare, her instincts already going on the defensive. She was of royal blood and had Miroku been anybody else, she wouldn't have hesitated to behead him with her bare claws.

 

Feeling somewhat irritated she turned to meet serious cerulean eyes.

 

Her heart skipped a beat.

 

Kouga was her rival for such a long time. What would he feel now that he knows that she has always been a female? She was nervous but it didn't show on her face. Her eyes were impassive as the wolf looked into them for any sign of discomfort or fear. Cerulean eyes took in the entirety of her. Carefully observing the changes in her body and the changes in her eyes, soon enough a frankly mischievous smirk lit Kouga's face.

 

“Inuyasha-hime.” The hanyou twitched as she saw Sesshoumaru smirk from the corner of her eyes. Oh yes, both demons were going to have a field day taunting her. Despite her irritation, she raised a questioning brow, her expression haughty. She was after all; Kouga's superior when it came down to Youkai ranks.

 

She lifted her chin up and watched as Sesshoumaru eyes glittered in amusement. “How wise of you to remember you place and my status wolf prince Kouga.”

 

Kagome chuckled while Kouga scowled. Leave it to Inuyasha to put Kouga in his place.

 

“Inuyasha, I will come to escort you back to the castle in a week's time.” Sesshoumaru informed, not wishing to waste his time with his sister's odd pack. He handed Inuyasha a pouch of gold coins and looked at her attire with mild distaste, “Purchase clothing that are befitting your status.” Inuyasha looked down at her peasant like clothing and frowned. “Your fire-rat garments will not aid you. You are far too slender for them.”

 

“Hai nii-sama.” Inuyasha answered automatically, not even realizing that she had never addressed Sesshoumaru with such respect. The Daiyoukai paused to look at her for a moment at that, Inuyasha's voice landing softly on his sensitive ears. He smirked and continued on his way, towards his home.

 

Inuyasha and Kouga were still glaring at each other as Sesshoumaru disappeared into the forest. Others of Inuyasha's group were watching the whole situation slightly amused.

 

Inuyasha smirked when Kouga growled at her. However, the growl died away. Kouga looked slightly confused. “Oi mutt… why did you let Sesshoumaru mark you?”

 

The hanyou scowled and ran her fingers through her hair. “It's not like I had a choice. He just went ahead and marked me.”

 

Kouga looked at Inuyasha with narrowed eyes, silently observing the way she rubbed the red scar right below her jaw line. Kouga was immensely relieved to see that Sesshoumaru hadn't marked her as a potential mate. However, he would have liked to be the one to mark Inuyasha with a protective scent. It irritated him that Inuyasha let the Daiyoukai do it. His demon instincts were screaming at him for letting a young and nearly fertile woman be marked by someone else.

 

He snapped out of his musings when he saw Inuyasha looking at him oddly. He shrugged to himself and said, “Come on, we should get moving.”

 

Kagome smiled and nodded in understanding. Miroku and Sango looked at each other and shrugged while Shippo scrambled onto Inuyasha's shoulder, ignoring her annoyed scowl. “What do you think you are doing kit?” She questioned gruffly, puzzled so as to why Shippo chose to ride on her shoulders for a change. He was usually a parasite to Kagome not her.

 

“He seems attracted to your youkai.” Kouga pointed out when he saw the confused look in her eyes. Inuyasha looked at him questioningly to which Kouga shrugged. “I guess you are still young seeing that you do not notice such things. A pup is usually very attached to his mother for the first 100 or so years of his life. Since that brat is an orphan he instinctively clings to the alpha female of the pack. Since your youkai was suppressed by your mother's spell he just assumed that you were the alpha male and Kagome was the alpha female. Now, his instincts are guiding him towards you since you are the strongest female present and also the leader of the pack.”

 

Inuyasha sighed when Shippo started fidgeting on her shoulder. The hanyou shrugged and petted Shippo's head briefly before turned to Kagome. The miko shouldered her backpack and nodded.

 

Inuyasha sighed and started walking; the pain in her leg was easily ignored. She had long since developed the ability to overlook the pain from injuries. She never did have the comfort of relaxing after battle until recently. Inuyasha was still getting used to the over-protectiveness of her friends.

 

“So Inuyasha…” Kagome started; her expression curious. “What were you and Sesshoumaru talking about?”

 

The hanyou looked at her questioningly. “You know… in the hut. He seemed worried for some reason.”

 

Inuyasha looked at her with skepticism in her eyes, “And you noticed?” the hanyou seemed surprised and that irritated Kagome a little. “I am not stupid you know.” She hissed at her demon friend. Inuyasha responded with an indulgent smirk which only served to rattle her further.

 

“Break it up you two.” Miroku's ever patient voice interrupted their little game and both girls huffed in annoyance. Kouga raised a brow at the way Inuyasha and Kagome behaved around each other. It was odd to see that the human miko had accepted the change so easily.

 

She, until a few months ago, was horribly in love with Inuyasha. It was obvious to Kouga. It was obvious to anyone who laid eyes on her. But of course, Inuyasha too was very delicate in warding off her advances. It was confusing. Inuyasha never let him take Kagome as his mate however; she was not encouraging Kagome's love for her.

 

Kouga snapped out of his thoughts when Inuyasha slapped her hand against her own neck. “Myoga!”

 

Inuyasha's eyes twitched as the whole group gathered around her to look at the flea. It was a well known fact that the insect drops in when something important occurs. The flea shook his head to reorient himself before shooting Inuyasha a mild glare that was no where near as frightening as the irritated look on Inuyasha's face. “Ahh, Inuyasha-hime, you finally decided to stop using Izayoi-hime's spell.”

 

Inuyasha narrowed her eyes on the flea before she nodded, “But that is not the purpose of your visit insect. Why are you here?”

 

Myoga snorted and crossed his tiny arms, “I'll be here when you need me Inuyasha-hime. Are you sure it is wise to give Sesshoumaru-sama a chance to be your mate.”

 

Everyone, except for Kouga and Myoga looked at her with wide, disbelieving eyes. “B…but that's not possible! They are siblings!” Kagome stammered. Miroku nodded in agreement while Sango looked at Inuyasha with narrowed eyes. Inuyasha was not forgiving enough to actually give Sesshoumaru a chance. Myoga might be wrong.

 

“Technically they are not. Not according to youkai laws.” Kouga intervened calmly, saving Inuyasha from the trouble of answering.

 

Myoga nodded sagely and looked at the group of wide-eyed humans. “Allow me to explain. Nature permits a demon to mate only once in a lifetime. That bond goes beyond the limitations of life and death and therefore a demon will have only one mate in his or her entire lifetime. Because of this, it is not uncommon for Demon Lords to take on concubines. Some of these concubines do give birth to children.”

 

The flea looked up to see if everyone was paying attention before continuing his tale, “To avoid conflict, the children born to those concubines are not acknowledged as the heirs. The heir is the child produced within a mating bond. The heir will normally choose one of those children as a mate. It is common practice.”

 

Sango nodded in understanding, “So you mean that Sesshoumaru can choose Inuyasha as his mate and it is not against youkai laws since they are not considered siblings.”

 

Myoga nodded, “However, Inuyasha-hime's position is rather unique. You see, Lord Inu-No-Taishou was fiercely loyal to Lord Sesshoumaru's mother. After her death, he didn't look at any other woman. That is until he met Lady Izayoi. It seemed as though the Gods had fated that union because my master was able to take Lady Izayoi as a mate. Her position was not that of a concubine but that of the Lady of the West.”

 

“That makes Inuyasha the second heir to the Western Lands. She is the legitimate child so to speak. That is why Sesshoumaru-sama must ask her and love her. He cannot just take her as his mate for she is his equal. Her consent is essential for if he takes her forcefully, he will lose his lands and his status as a Daiyoukai.” Kouga smirked at Inuyasha's scowling expression as he completed what Myoga was trying to say.

 

Kagome, Sango and Miroku were shocked. It seemed that youkai society was more complex than they had imagined. Inuyasha scoffed and crossed her arms, “You seem to forget one essential fact. I do not what to mate Sesshoumaru.”

 

Both Kouga and Myoga seemed surprised at that. “Then why did you allow yourself to be marked?” The wolf prince questioned. If Inuyasha didn't wish to mate Sesshoumaru, she shouldn't have let him give her the protection mark. Many demons would view that mark as the mark of intent. That was something that would chaise away potential mates.

 

The Princess ran her fingers through her hair and sighed, “I do not wish to get myself entangled in these political games… I am not a commodity and I refuse to let myself be sold.”

 

Kouga looked at Inuyasha with narrowed eyes. Although her tone and countenance was blank, her eyes betrayed her. She was afraid of leaving herself open when she had been taught that trust was something she couldn't afford. “Inuyasha…” he prodded carefully.

 

“I am young still. Can I not wait until I find someone who would not view me as some sort of key to the fortune of the west? I tire of these games Kouga… these games that I have been playing since I was a child. For 200 hundred years I had to pretend something I was not just to keep those power hungry leaches off my back. Not once could I let myself slip or relax for they wouldn't hesitate to rape a child to get what they wanted. Do you understand how that would feel?”

 

Everyone was silent at that. “Sesshoumaru understands it and that is why he gave me this mark. He is the strongest demon there is and his scent is enough to keep us safe for now.”

 

No one knew what to say to that. Inuyasha had never spoken to them so openly before. She had never let her problems bother them. Now she was standing in front of them and her voice didn't betray a single ounce of pain. Her eyes were hard and determined and her head was held high. The simple peasant clothing and the slight limp of her leg did nothing to dispel the regal aura of authority around her.

 

Not for the first time, Kouga found himself stunned by the sheer strength of her soul. He had never met a woman scarred by the past and yet so spotlessly beautiful emerging from it.

 

“You'd make one hell of a mate to the person who manages to ensnare you.” Kouga commented slyly. He was delighted to see a soft pink blush on Inuyasha's cheeks before she turned her head away from him. However, Kouga had attainted his purpose. The tense atmosphere that had surrounded the group dissipated with his small joke.

 

As the group continued walking towards the next village, Kouga found himself observing the enchanting hanyou. It was true to many demons would want to mate her just because she was the Princess of the West.

 

But there would be many who would mate her for herself.

 

Kouga realized that Inuyasha wasn't giving herself much credit. He shrugged and walked alongside the hanyou. “You know mutt, not everybody will care about your status.” Inuyasha raised a brow in question when Kouga subtly inched closer, whispering in her sensitive ear, “Not when they get to know you. Your fiery defiance will rattle their domineering instincts.”

 

Inuyasha smirked and glanced at Kouga from the corner of her eyes, “Is that how you feel Kouga? Poor Kou-chan… I didn't know I was rattling your instincts as an Alpha male. It must feel bad right, to meet a female stronger than you?”

 

Kagome and Sango giggled while Miroku smirked and nudged Kouga slyly. Inuyasha suppressed a grin as she walked on. Kagome chuckled as she looked at Inuyasha's triumphant expression. “Don't be so hard on him Inu-chan.”

 

Inuyasha smirked and glanced over her shoulder to meet cerulean eyes. What she saw made her insides freeze. Those icy eyes held a promise of intense passion. The lust in Kouga's gaze as he let those chilling eyes roam over her body was frankly unsettling. She was starting to question her wisdom in baiting Kouga when he knew she was a female.

 

Inuyasha had to be careful and Kouga wasn't the one to pay any heed to Sesshoumaru's protection mark. He was a royal too, albeit of lesser status. If he contested Sesshoumaru's claim, her brother wouldn't hesitate to take the challenge head on.

 

That would be one bloody battle.

 

Wrapping her arms around herself, Inuyasha turned her gaze away just in time to miss the flash of determination in Kouga's eyes.

 

Xxx

 

Sesshoumaru frowned when he felt a slight uneasiness amongst his servants. He ignored the feeling before he turned to the group of maids lined in front of him. All of them were dressed well, almost like human princesses. Jaken had gotten the right idea and had gathered the most efficient maids in their household.

 

Sesshoumaru looked at each one of them intently. All of them were demonness but all of them were also weak. Inuyasha would have no problems snapping their necks and that is what she wanted. Sesshoumaru knew that not all his servants were loyal. Many would not respect Inuyasha. But he also knew that Inuyasha wasn't patient with insolence. After all, she was their father's daughter. She wouldn't tolerate disrespect from her own servants.

 

Earlier that day, he had gotten a curious message from Inuyasha saying that she would be arriving earlier than planned. According to Myoga it had something to do with Naraku. Sesshoumaru was sorely tempted to go and escort Inuyasha back himself. However, Myoga had assured that Kouga was capable of bringing Inuyasha back safely.

 

Sesshoumaru was doubtful; he had seen Inuyasha only a day before and there was no trace of Naraku around then. The Daiyoukai turned his attention back to the nervous maids and resisted the urge to smirk. They were twenty in total and he had to choose only five. His assessing gaze landed on Midori.

 

She had been his concubine for a long time now. She was a beautiful contrast to his pale looks. Midori had dark forest green hair and similar eyes. She was aptly named for her looks and was quite talented in bed. However, he knew that he wouldn't touch her after Inuyasha stepped into the palace. Although Inuyasha didn't show any interest in taking up his offer, he knew that he could convince her. If she agreed, which she will in due time, he planned on staying loyal to his mate.

 

Midori didn't excite him much. She was meek and submissive. Midori was a woman trained to be a concubine. Sesshoumaru had only given her that position because it was bothersome to endure mating seasons alone. Besides, she was obedient. She was always looking out for his welfare. She would be the perfect servant for Inuyasha considering that she would want to please him. “Midori.” He called decisively. The green haired woman stepped forward and bowed to Sesshoumaru. “You will be in charge of all the maids tending to her.”

 

Midori nodded, it was clear that the person who was coming was very important to their Lord Sesshoumaru since he was giving his mother's chambers to her. Many speculated that she might be the one who Sesshoumaru had chosen as his mate.

 

The thought itself thrilled Midori. Someone was needed to bring the Palace of the West back to its former glory, someone who could bring peace of their Sesshoumaru's heart. She was eager to meet the great soul could tempt her Lord. Midori knew that Sesshoumaru was not persuaded by beauty, nor was he tempted by submissiveness.

 

Sesshoumaru went about picking every maid he thought as the most loyal and dismissed the rest of them. “Each of you is now the Princess's servants. You will take care of her; make sure that she has everything she requires. She will not demand your services or ask you to assist her in any manner. However, you must know what she needs and when she needs it.”

 

“Why wouldn't she ask, My Lord?” Midori questioned, she was the only one who could get away with questioning Sesshoumaru's words.

 

Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes on her before answering, “She doesn't like people surrounding her at all times. She is not the one to sit idle. When she arrives at the palace this evening, you will introduce yourselves to her. Midori, you will show her to the Dojo where she will pursue her training.”

 

Midori frowned in confusion but didn't question him further. The Daiyoukai nodded to himself in satisfaction and left the room. The green haired female turned to her fellow maids and shrugged at their confused looks. As far as they knew, females from Royal clans hardly trained in warfare.

 

Reminding herself of her duties, she gestured her subordinates to follow her as she went to Sesshoumaru's mother's room. It was now the Princess's chambers and she had to get them ready for her earlier than expected arrival.

 

X

 

Sesshoumaru knew it was no use appointing guards for Inuyasha considering she was stronger than everyone who worked under him at the moment. However, she was also reckless, easily irritated. He needed someone to keep an eye on her. It was for her own safety, though Sesshoumaru doubted that his guards would be able to contain her.

 

He narrowed his eyes on all the guards that were standing in front of him. “She is not allowed to leave the palace unless I personally escort her out.” Sesshoumaru commanded as he locked his eyes with the head guard of the Western Palace.

 

“You needn't take the trouble My Lord. We can escort her around for you. She will be safe with us.” Sesshoumaru raised a brow at that. His guards shifted uncomfortably at his derisive stare. The Daiyoukai didn't bother to point out that they would be a liability for her instead of the other way round.

 

Just as he was about to give further orders, he noticed Inuyasha's scent. He gracefully rose in the air and zipped past the palace gates. Silently he wondered if it was a mistake to leave Inuyasha in the care of her weak friends. Judging from the amount of Inuyasha's blood in the air, Sesshoumaru concluded that they hadn't done a good job. Scowling slightly at their incompetence, he landed softly in front of the group and raised a brow at his sister.

 

She was injured, that much he could see. Her shoulder was bleeding, staining her rich silk clothes. As always, there was no trace of pain in her posture. Sesshoumaru let his eyes wander to her group and noticed with a slight frown that they were not as injured as Inuyasha was. That meant that his reckless sister took the brunt of the attack.

 

Inuyasha walked up to him with a slight scowl on her face. It was obvious that she didn't enjoy coming to him earlier than planned. Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes on her, silently demanding explanation. The hanyou sighed, “Kagura attacked. So we can safely assume that Naraku might know of this.” She murmured as she gestured towards her body, “That is if Kagura feels like it. She is not exactly loyal to Naraku.”

 

“Nevertheless, it was a wise decision to come here early. Although I feel it was unnecessary to bring along your companions.” Inuyasha smirked in amusement at the slightly disgusted look in Sesshoumaru's eyes. “Whether you like it or not dear brother, they are my pack and I have sworn to protect them.”

 

Sesshoumaru acknowledged what she said with a nod and narrowed his eyes on her wounds. “The poison from the snake has not left your body it seems.” Inuyasha nodded and glanced at her silent companions. They were a little nervous at the thought of staying in Sesshoumaru's castle. The hanyou frowned and looked at her brother; “Sesshoumaru…” her voice was low as she called the Daiyoukai's attention. “Is it safe for the humans to stay at your palace?”

 

Sesshoumaru looked at the approaching gates of his home and replied, “My servants wouldn't defy me little one.”

 

“Somehow, that is not too comforting.” Inuyasha sighed; the scent of his companions' nervousness was stifling. “They are demons Inuyasha and so are you. Humans are bound to be uncomfortable around demons.”

 

Inuyasha ran her fingers through her hair, wincing when the movement stressed her wound. Sesshoumaru pushed open the gates and placed his hand on Inuyasha's back to guide her inside. Inuyasha's friends followed silently, well aware of the confused glances Sesshoumaru's demon servant cast their way.

 

After all, Sesshoumaru's dislike for any human except for Rin was blatant.

 

While Sango, Miroku and Kagome were engrossed in taking in the sight of Sesshoumaru's beautiful palace, Kouga and Shippo were silently observing the demon servants. Both of them noticed the wide eyed looks Inuyasha was getting and they knew the reason for it.

 

Kouga's eyes narrowed as he saw Sesshoumaru's possessive arm around Inuyasha's waist. The Daiyoukai was whispering something in Inuyasha's ear and almost everyone could see the intimacy of the moment when Inuyasha smiled somewhat reluctantly. Kouga's sharp ears caught Inuyasha's reply, “Your mother's chambers Sesshoumaru? Are you certain?”

 

Just when Sesshoumaru was about to reply, Midori came forward and bowed to both Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha. “Hime-sama… your chambers are ready for your use. Shall I summon the healer to check your wounds?”

 

Inuyasha looked at the girl intensely for a moment, noting the claw mark on her cheek she instantly understood the woman's position in Sesshoumaru's household. “And you are?”

 

“She is Midori. You can ask her for anything you need. She is at your disposal.” Inuyasha looked at Sesshoumaru skeptically before turning to the girl bowed before her. Nodding in approval, “Yes, why don't you summon the healer?”

 

Midori nodded and left while Sesshoumaru turned to Jaken. “Escort Inuyasha's companions to the guest rooms and arrange refreshments for them.” Jaken looked uncertain but he didn't question Sesshoumaru. The imp was too astonished at the sight of a female Inuyasha to even think of questioning Sesshoumaru.

 

Inuyasha glanced at Kagome, Sango and Miroku and smirked when she saw they were enjoying the gardens. Shippo was busy listening to what Kagome was saying and Kouga was looking at her discreetly from the corner of his eyes. They already seemed a lot more comfortable than they should be.

 

At Sesshoumaru's order Jaken quickly went to her friends and escorted them grumpily. She turned her gaze back to the wolf prince and frowned. The jealously in Kouga's eyes when she remained at Sesshoumaru's side baffled her.

 

“Imouto?”

 

Inuyasha turned her gaze to Sesshoumaru and shook her head slightly to remove the picture of Kouga's jealous eyes from her mind. “Gomen…”

 

Sesshoumaru raised a brow at Inuyasha's distracted behavior. Sesshoumaru followed his sister's gaze to Kouga's retreating back. He narrowed his eyes when he saw slight apprehension in Inuyasha's eyes. “Imouto…is something the matter?” Sesshoumaru observed as Inuyasha scowled slightly before shaking her head.

 

Sesshoumaru nodded before guiding her along the passages to her room. “My mother's chambers are the only once suited for you. They are isolated and therefore you will not be disturbed during your heat. It is just beyond my chambers and no one will be able to access your room before passing my own. That should be private enough for you.”

 

“You didn't have to do this nii-sama.” Sesshoumaru looked at Inuyasha with slight amusement. “I don't remember you being modest.”

 

All modesty went flying out the window and Inuyasha glared at Sesshoumaru with hell's fury burning in her eyes. “Why do you mock me when I am trying to be nice you bastard?”

 

Sesshoumaru smirked inwardly, her glare didn't faze him nor did her words, and he was used to her fiery eyes by now. Reaching out he brushed dried blood off her cheek, smiling when her eyes narrowed in warning. “Take a bath. After your wounds are treated, come to my chambers.”

 

Inuyasha huffed in annoyance and walked into her room. She had not expected four maids to stand in attention when she arrived. All of them had their heads bowed, awaiting her orders. Inuyasha was not used to such treatment but she knew how to behave. After all, she had spent her childhood in a human palace.

 

She did what she used to do in her mother's home. She ignored them.

 

Trying not to aggravate her wounds, she removed her white silk kimono that was now ruined thanks to her wounds. Scowling in irritation, she removed her juban. The maids gasped at the nature of her shoulder wound and quickly started crowding her.

 

“Hime-sama… you require our assistance. Let us help you. My name is Ayame” the maid gestured at her other three companions, “They are Noriko, Mira and Megumi. We are your personal handmaidens, hime-sama.”

 

Inuyasha almost growled. She didn't need four maids irritating her and following her around.

 

Noriko came forward and picked up her bloodied kimono, “Such grievous wounds hime-sama. Lord Sesshoumaru has been worried for your well being.” Inuyasha raised a brow at the oddity of the statement. The maids rushed about, one of them fetched a basin full of water and the other brought a spare cloth. “It must be a long and tiring journey for you hime-sama. The healer will be here as soon as possible, she left this morning to collect some herbs.”

 

Inuyasha smirked in amusement when her maids winced at the sight of the nasty wound in her leg. The bandages around her breasts were soaked in blood but these wounds were nothing compared to what Inuyasha had gone through during some of the more difficult times in her life. Ayame frowned at the wound in Inuyasha's leg, “The wound is poisoned hime-sama?”

 

“It will be alright.” Inuyasha spoke for the first time since she entered the room. “The poison is the only thing preventing my wounds from healing.” The maids looked at her in bewilderment before they started to clean her wounds. Against her will, Inuyasha found herself starting to relax.

 

Ayame smiling at her mischievously, her cerulean eyes glimmering, “Hime-sama, the palace has been a flurry of activity ever since it was announced that you would arrive. Sesshoumaru-sama had been anxious. I can understand why seeing your wounds.”

 

Inuyasha snorted, “Sesshoumaru? Anxious? I have known him all my life and I have never seen him anxious.”

 

The four maids looked at her questioningly. “Hime-sama, if I may be so bold to ask… have you known Sesshoumaru-sama since long?”

 

Now Inuyasha was baffled. They didn't know who she was. Smirking, she rolled her uninjured shoulder and answered, “Yes, of course. I am Inuyasha after all, his one and only sister.”

 

“I knew it!” Megumi jumped and glared at her companions. “Now do you believe me? I told you that Izayoi-sama had a daughter. I was there!” The woman, although much older to Inuyasha in age, seemed to glow in a childish triumph when proved correct. Inuyasha narrowed her eyes while the others gaped at her with wide eyes.

 

“Megumi, was it? I hope you didn't tell many people, I am certain nii-sama will not find this amusing.” Inuyasha warned with a slight glare. She didn't want a servant spreading the news about her.

 

All of the maids stiffened. This was no ordinary woman sitting in front of them. She was the daughter of Inu-no-Taishou and Princess Izayoi, sister of their master and the second heir of the West.

 

Not to mention their Lord's intended.

 

They would handle coddled princesses but they didn't know how to behave in front of a warrior who was strong enough to sever their master's arm. The aura around Inuyasha was not comforting at all. She had the same disconcerting presence as her brother. Nonchalant, mysterious yet strangely warm.

 

All four of them squirmed uneasily under her steady stare. “No one should know I am a female aside from the demons working in this palace. Am I understood?” Her handmaidens nodded immediately in agreement. Fear and uncertainty clear in their eyes. It made Inuyasha wonder if Sesshoumaru treated his servants well. They had no reason to fear her, unless they had been taught to fear their owners.

 

“It is our honor.” Ayame whispered, her face holding a look of awe. “It is our honor to serve you Lady Inuyasha of the West.”

 

The maids could have sworn that there was a slight blush on their mistress's pale cheek before lifted her fingers to rub the bridge of her nose. The act brought forth little tentative giggles since no woman from a Royal house would perform such a masculine little gesture to hide their blush.

 

Unable to take their admiring gazes anymore, Inuyasha stood and headed towards the bath when her handmaidens had successfully cleaned her wounds. Much to Inuyasha's dismay, they followed her and helped her bathe.

 

She had to admit, it was somewhat relaxing when someone tenderly washed your hair and back. However, she was never comfortable with alien touch. She didn't say anything though. Inuyasha let them do their work because she was sure this was what Sesshoumaru had appointed them for. She let her mind drift; to her it seemed that she had been relaxing for hours together. Never had she felt so lethargic and content.

 

Absently, she heard a soft knock on the door and one of her handmaidens left to see who it was. In the meanwhile, Ayame handed her a white cotton yukata and Noriko helped her out of the bath. Inuyasha wasted no time in donning the outfit and tied the obi with practiced ease.

 

When she stepped out of the bath chambers she was a beautiful woman seated calmly. Inuyasha could tell just by looking at her that she was an ancient demon. When she looked at her, there was a twinkle in her eyes. “Princess Inuyasha, at last you have returned to your rightful place.”

 

Inuyasha raised a brow as she sat down. Noriko immediately went about combing her hair while Ayame picked out her clothes from the wardrobe. “You haven't introduced yourself.” Inuyasha murmured, ignoring the wetness on her back and the stinging of her wounds.

 

“I am Akiko, the healer.” The old lady reached forward and caressed Inuyasha's still moist cheek and smiled, “The gods have blessed the Inu clan with abundant beauty. But you are, without a doubt, the loveliest of them all.”

 

Inuyasha's tilted her head to the side and look at the woman with sharp golden eyes. The flattery was not affecting her; she didn't care what others though about her looks. She knew better than to think of such superficial things.

 

Inuyasha didn't know why, but Akiko felt familiar. Her silent question was answered when Akiko continued speaking, “I was present when Lady Izayoi gave birth to the moon goddess of the Inu clan, the first daughter in eight long generations.” Inuyasha smirked faintly at the title. Her mother had told her about the Legend behind that name. Every Princess of the Inu clan was called the Goddess of Moon while the every Prince was called the Guardian of the Crescent.

 

It had something to do with the marks they had on their skin. Sesshoumaru's forehead had a crescent moon while their father had it on his right foot. She too had a crescent moon on her lower back. No one knew the reason behind the marks. The titles originated from them. The custom of calling them with that title was abandoned with the older generation still preferred it.

 

“Let me look at your wounds.” Inuyasha looked at Akiko and nodded. “Do not apply any balm or herb to the wounds. They will only serve to slow down my spiritual powers.” Akiko smiled at her and nodded, “Yes I know, Hime-sama. I will merely wrap those wounds for you.” The healer turned to Mira, “Please prepare tea for Hime-sama.” Mira nodded left to get some tea.

 

Inuyasha watched distractedly as the healer wrapped her leg in pure white bandages. The steady motions of Noriko combing her hair relaxed her but she still felt a little out of place. It would take time for her to adjust to such a life. She didn't want handmaidens shadowing her every move. She didn't want them to help her dress or bathe. Scowling in mild irritation she loosened her obi and let the healer wrap her shoulder wound.

 

“Hime-sama, Sesshoumaru-sama ordered us to show you the dojo. He said that you can utilize it if you wish to train.” Noriko informed, running her fingers through her silk like hair. “Hime-sama has such beautiful hair so similar to Sesshoumaru-sama. Lord Inu-no-Taishou would have been proud to have such a powerful son and such a lovely daughter.”

 

Ayame nodded with a smile. Akiko finished bandaging her shoulder and brushed a wet lock of hair off her forehead and said, “Sesshoumaru-sama and Inuyasha-sama would make a good couple. Gods have blessed our master with a sister such as you. Both of you are a perfect match.”

 

Inuyasha grit her teeth in annoyance when she felt heat rising to her face. Why was everyone insisting that she'd mate Sesshoumaru? Why were they making such a big deal out of this?