InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Demon Slayer Sango ❯ Chapter 18 ( Chapter 18 )

Chapter 18

 

Hisako swept out of Rin's nursery, thoroughly worn out. 'That child is becoming more and more unmanageable every day,' she thought. It had been a supreme effort to get the little girl to focus on her brush painting that morning, and only after several minutes of cajoling alternated with threats to tell Lord Sesshomaru about her misbehavior did Rin finally settle down to pay attention to Hisako's instruction. 'I am now starting to think that maybe it is for the best that I never had children of my own,' mused Hisako, and threw up her hands.

 

Making her way back to her own apartments, the noble demoness suddenly heard sniffling coming from one of the galleries off to her right. On investigating she found the wilted form of lady Kaiya perched against the wall, weeping for all she was worth. Hisako went to her.

 

"My dear what is the matter? What has happened?" She took the young woman's delicately clawed hand in her own.

 

"H-he said no. He will make me do it! I don't want to! Lady Hisako...." she gasped and sobbed some more. The young demoness had wandered away from her rooms after Yoshiro dropped her off, not wanting to have to tell Midori or her father that she had approached Sesshomaru and been refused in her request not to mate. Now Kaiya wandered the halls aimlessly and had only stopped to try to collect herself after breaking into a fresh set of tears.

 

"We must get you out of this hallway-- come girl." Leading her to her own reception chamber, Hisako sat Kaiya down and stroked her hand. "You went to see Sesshomaru-sama?" She nodded. "I assume it didn't turn out the way you wished..." The elder demoness was not surprised. Once Sesshomaru set his mind to something, it was nearly impossible to get him to deviate from it, even a little.

 

"He will force me." Her sobs became brief gasps punctuated with sniffles. Hisako gave her a cloth for her face.

 

"There, there. Calm down now. We will sort this out."

 

"Why me, Hisako-sama! It isn't fair! I never wanted to mate him-- any other girl at court would have been a better choice than me!"

 

"Shhh shh, my dear. Dry your eyes." Just then the door opened and in stepped the dignified, silver-haired figure of Lord Tamaku. He was accompanied by a younger demon, someone Hisako did not recognize.

 

"Excuse us, we will go to another chamber," said Tamaku.

 

"Hold on," called Hisako to her husband. She stood and pulled him aside, lowering her voice to a confidential level. "She has been to see Sesshomaru-sama." Tamaku sighed and nodded. He assumed as much when he walked in to see the demoness in tears. "We must do something. She is completely distraught. That chilly demon has no sense of delicacy when it comes to these matters."

 

"I know. I can try to speak to him. You talk to her. I don't know if there is much that can be changed, however." Hisako nodded and looked over his shoulder. "Who is this, Tamaku?" The older demon stepped back to present the young youkai behind him to his wife.

 

"This is lord Shiro, youngest son of Tanjiro, lord of the northwestern clans. The family have recently come to the palace to attend Sesshomaru-sama at his request."

 

"My lady," spoke the young demon. Hisako looked up into a pair of startling bright blue eyes. The look on his face hinted at a cheerful nature, which was somewhat at odds with the youthful demon's otherwise elegant, sleek appearance. Tall with chestnut brown hair pulled back in a neat tail at the nape of his neck, the young lord reminded her a bit of her own husband in his youth. Charmed, the demoness offered her hand.

 

"Lord Shiro. Welcome to the Inuyoukai Palace. May I present the Lady Kaiya? She...she is to become Lady of the West."

 

'Damn why do I have to meet someone now,' thought Kaiya. All she wanted to do was curl up in a ball and disappear. Looking up, she startled at seeing a dashing, cheerful young demon approaching her. He bowed low.

 

"At your service, Kaiya-sama." For an instant the demoness caught both his eyes in her own and felt an odd stirring, as if the briefest hint of something passed between them. She nodded faintly in acknowledgement, careful not to betray any emotion.

 

"Lord Shiro will be attending the hanyou and his family once they arrive," explained Tamaku. Hisako had been apprised earlier of the impending visit of Sesshomaru's estranged younger brother and his mate, along with their infant pup.

'It will be an eventful season at the palace, it seems,' thought Hisako.

She nodded with a gracious smile and led Kaiya away from the men to adjourn to the more private space of her personal sitting room.

 

"Now Lady Kaiya. I know you find yourself in a difficult situation. It must be a shock to know your life could change so drastically, so quickly. But you are a noblewoman of blood and excellent breeding. You must behave as such, no matter what else occurs." Kaiya nodded and tried to sit straighter. "Things are not as hopeless as they seem, my dear. I think what you need is simply more time to adjust to the idea..."

 

Kaiya broke in. "No I don't! I know what I want, I need to leave this place. I will continue my work, my painting. I want to see the world. I don't want to stay in this old fortress and have a litter of pups for a man I don't love, who doesn't love me!...I wasn't made for that!!"

 

The finality and certainty with which the bold young demoness made these statements worried Hisako. It seemed she had her heart set on getting out of any obligation to mate lord Sesshomaru. 'This is not good,' thought Hisako.

 

"My dear, I want you to promise me one thing." Kaiya nodded warily. Hisako continued. "My husband and I will both speak to the master on your behalf. I doubt it will do much good, but we will try. Perhaps he will agree to postpone the claiming for a long while yet-- with this war coming on that shouldn't be a difficult conclusion to make. In exchange for that I beg you not to do anything rash. Not until you and I can speak again. Do I have your promise in this?" Kaiya wiped her eyes once more, and nodded. "Good."

 

"Thank you, Lady Hisako. I will keep my promise," she said, and a look of relief slowly began to take over the stormy despair in her eyes.

 

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They marched, taking from the land as they went along. Villages of poor humans and youkai alike were not spared from their bitter wrath as the rebel inu demons beat a path across the landscape. Jitsuo at their head, the feral, insatiable bloodlust of his army grew and grew with each kill, each plundered village.

 

"Master, when will we meet the witch?" asked Noguro. He marched beside the resolute figure of Jitsuo who glanced about him, always alert to changes in the near environment.

 

"Soon, Noguro, soon. She will give us what we need to vanquish that arrogant tyrant Sesshomaru once and for all."

 

"Without the child, master?"

 

"Hmmmph." Jitsuo recalled the demand. "She will have to wait."

 

The inu commander remembered the deal he'd made. How could he forget? In exchange for the blood of Inutaisho and the sword that could save a hundred lives with one stroke, Koto, the long dormant witch of the black mountains would grant him a special weapon. It was one that could destroy any demon, even one of Sesshomaru's strength and power. Jistuo realized it was the only way to overcome his enemy, who had the natural advantage over him as a taiyoukai of uncommon power and control. He had gladly agreed to the bargain with the witch when her messenger had come calling.

 

But, he hadn't delivered on his side of the arrangement yet. He had promised the witch a stake in the child Takeo, son of the hanyou Inuyasha. He had so far failed in his mission to obtain the child. Cursing, he hoped they would have yet another chance at some point down the road. The original plan had been that while he would take over raising the child in his own image, the witch Koto would have dominion over the child's heart. She had explained the need for a pure heart of Inutaisho's line in order to come out of her priestess-imposed dormancy. Centuries ago she had been sealed into the mountain by Inutaisho himself, and could only escape at the agency of one of his bloodline. And so Jitsuo had promised. 'How in the hell am I going to get this pup,' he wondered.

 

 

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The taijiya took in several deep breaths of air. That morning she awoke to a spinning headache and upset stomach, and decided to take a long soak in the local hot spring hoping it would do her some good. While Kirara stood guard, she bathed and tried to relax the pounding in her head.

 

Sango had been hearing stories about a band of ferocious inu demons wreaking havoc on the fields and villages in the southern part of the territory. They were apparently moving north, and seemed to grow in numbers and ferocity as they travelled. This did not help her headache; she remembered Sesshomaru's warnings about an impending rebellion against his authority on the part of some plotting inu demons. Sango knew that sooner or later she would have to deal with it-- their current path would soon bring them through the area she usually patrolled in her demon extermination work. This did not help her headache either.

 

Emerging from the rejuvenating waters of the spring after an hour long rest, she dried her body and slipped into a fresh yukata. A thought suddenly crossed her mind. 'I have been taking the root, everyday just as the healer said I should,' she recalled. Sango had taken precautions against pregnancy ever since her first encounter with Sesshomaru back at the inuyoukai fortress. Unable to bring herself to approach Kagome who would have offered similar help, the taijiya had instead gone to another local priestess to obtain a mixture of yarrow root and herbs to take each morning with her tea. Right now she felt slightly nervous. Her monthly period was due that day, and on rising that morning she found that it hadn't yet started.

 

'I am not pregnant. I can't be,' she repeated to herself. 'We only did it a few times...wait.' She counted on her fingers and sighed. 'Well, maybe more than a few.' The demon slayer knew she took a risk each time she slept with Sesshomaru. 'If we did have a child, it would be a hanyou, like Inuyasha.' Sango shook her head, imagining that picture. 'Heaven help me if I ever become saddled with a kid like him!' Sango had great affection for the half-human dog demon, but often chafed at his boisterousness and rough demeanor. They had forged a friendship based on mutual respect for the other's fighting ability and through a common bond with Kagome. She scoffed remembering Sesshomaru's charge that Inuyasha wanted her sexually-- the idea was preposterous. Inuyasha had always loved Kagome, and except for Kikiyo only her. 'Sesshomaru has a huge jealous streak I think,' she remarked to herself. 'He's not as perfect as he'd like to think he is...and I kind of love him for it, I guess.' A sly smile crossed her lips as she made her way down the path back to her cottage.

 

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"Hanyou-sama. Welcome to the Palace of the Inuyoukai." The elegant figure of a young inu demon greeted Inuyasha and his group as they approached the palace. "My name is Shiro, and I will be attending you for your stay here. If you need anything, do not hesitate to call on me...now, if you will follow, I will show you inside and to your apartments."

 

Inuyasha had not expected a welcome, and merely grunted his acknowledgment. To be honest, he felt creeped out. Walking into the palace behind the young demon with Kagome, Takeo, Shippo and Miroku in tow, the suddenly warily alert hanyou brooded. Knowing this was his father's home did not erase the nagging feeling that he really did not belong in this place, as if his human blood were resisting entry into a demon stronghold. Kagome noticed his discomfort and offered a steadying hand as they made their way inside the huge, mysterious fortress that Sesshomaru claimed as his home.

 

"Inuyasha this palace is enormous," breathed Shippo, awestruck.

 

"Dog demons know how to live in style," observed Miroku, noticing the finely polished floors, expensive looking furniture and richly dressed courtiers who passed them as they made their way through the palace. The monk especially approved of the fetching young demonesses who walked by in silk robes and coy smiles, finding himself stretching his neck more than once to watch as one or more would smirk or giggle at his shameless ogling.

 

"Houshi these are demons, you'd best be careful. You could come away with more than a slap on the face if you approach them the wrong way," warned Kagome.

 

"Why Kagome, I have nothing but the most honorable intentions regarding these female inuyoukai." He shrugged, but not before plastering his eyes to the rear end of a particularly pretty young servant girl who walked ahead of them. Kagome nudged him in the ribs.

 

Inuyasha grumbled. "I hope this war or whatever it is gets wrapped up quick. I hate this place already," he said. "Where is Sesshomaru, anyway?"

 

"Sesshomaru-sama is on official business with the generals. He is unavailable at present," said Shiro. He recalled his instructions from Tamaku-- 'The master is not to be disturbed today. Show the hanyou and his family to their rooms and make them comfortable.'

 

Before long a small group of inuyoukai were trailing behind the small party, whispering and pointing and sniffing at them. All had heard of Sesshomaru-sama's hanyou brother but none had seen him until now. Inuyasha began a low growl as a group of young adolescent demons started making derogatory remarks about his ears within his hearing.

 

"Why you prissy stuck up little shits-- come here and say that!"

 

He was cut off from making any movement toward the young demons by a looming figure. "Inuyasha! Inuyasha! Is it really you!!!" A very heavy demoness dressed in brightly colored robes came rushing toward them. She nearly bowled the hanyou over as two large arms suddenly clasped him to her ample bosom. Inuyasha growled and pushed her away forcefully.

 

"Look bitch what do you think you are doing? Take your hands off me!"

 

"Inuyasha!" Kagome scolded him. Obviously the demoness whoever she was was happy to see him.

 

"Its alright. You clearly don't remember me, do you?" The woman grinned.

 

"No I don't. Nor do I give a flying shit. Now get the hell out of my way!"

 

"Such a mouth on you." She waved an admonishing finger in his face. Inuyasha forced himself not to reach out and break it. "I should have figured as much-- you are your father's son, after all. That Inutaishou could curse up a storm!" The heavy woman's entire body shook as she bellowed in laughter at the memory. Miroku, Shippo and Kagome exchanged glances.

 

"Look lady, I just got here, I'm hungry and I'm in a bad mood. If you've got something to say then say it."

 

"Lady Akeko-- they have just arrived, I was showing them to their apartments," interjected Shiro.

 

"You must be that young lord Hisako was telling us about...hmmm, very nice," she purred as predatory eyes roved up and down the distinctly uncomfortable figure of Shiro.

 

Turning back to Inuyasha, the hefty youkai woman spoke in rushed tones. "I am Akeko. I was a friend of your father's-- his governess, actually. I looked over him from the time he was a pup...anyway, when he told me you were born I insisted on seeing you! I had never been out of this palace before, but I knew you were something special and I had to know the child of my Inu...anyway, he brought me to see you at your mother's home when you were just a pup. You have the same eyes, yes...just like your father." The older demoness looked as if she would start crying. Inuyasha rolled his eyes. "Is this your mate? What a lovely thing! And you have your own son!" The tears really did start to flow now.

 

By now a huge group of inuyoukai had gathered to surround the newcomers. Inuyasha became increasingly uneasy, and Takeo began to cry. Kagome cradled him, wanting to get someplace as soon as she could to nurse him.

 

"Lord Sesshomaru is present!" A loud voice bellowed out causing an immediate hush to break out among the assembled demons. Only Takeo's crying did not subside, and Kagome did her best to comfort him. Looking up all could see the figure of the cold, staid demon lord above staring down at them from the landing of the staircase.

 

Taking in the scene, Sesshomaru let his golden irises scan cooly about. 'My idiot brother Inuyasha has arrived I see,' he thought. 'It's about time. I have need of Tetsusaiga.' He made his way down the steps and strode up to the newcomers. Kagome spoke first.

 

"Your palace is quite impressive, Sesshomaru." A gasp. No one addressed the master by his given name without due respect. Kagome looked around and gulped. "I mean, Lord Sesshomaru." She got no reaction from the demon lord, who looked first to the apparently distressed bundle in her arms and then turned to Inuyasha.

 

"Its about time you arrived, baka."

 

"Hey don't call me that!"

 

"I will not get into an argument with you here, Inuyasha. Your pup obviously needs attention. When you are settled we will have words."

 

"You better bet we will you fucking bastard." Suddenly with blinding speed the demon lord was on him, fingers wrapped around the surprised hanyou's neck. The surrounding youkai and servants gasped and some scattered. Kagome yelped in fear, causing Takeo to cry even louder.

 

Sesshomaru spoke in a hard, warning tone. "Let me make one thing perfectly clear, Inuyasha. When you are under this roof you will behave with respect. This is our father's home, the seat of our clan and ancestors and all who reside here do so only at my will...I know you are an ill-bred, stupid idiot of a half-breed, but even you will observe the authority of this Sesshomaru when you are here. I will refrain from disemboweling you this time for the sake of your pup and your mate, but don't push me any further. Do we understand each other?" He shook Inuyasha to emphasize his point.

 

Shooting daggers at the demon lord, Inuyasha spoke slowly. "I didn't want to come to this godforsaken place. If you want to fuck with me Sesshomaru then fine. But don't expect me to like it here."

 

"Please Sesshomaru, let him go," begged Kagome. "You know what a hot temper he has..."

 

"Don't apologize to him, Kagome!" Hearing the miko's plea Sesshomaru let his focused stare waver momentarily from his brother's angry face and then eased his grip. Inuyasha stepped back.

 

"Who is in charge of this party," asked Sesshomaru coldly to no one in particular. He stood ramrod straight, elegant and composed as ever.

 

"I am, my lord." Shiro appeared, and lowered his head in respect.

 

"Take my brother and his humans to their rooms," he commanded. Then without further warning the demon lord turned and walked away. The assembled youkai began to disperse, murmuring and whispering, many rattled at having witnessed such a dramatic interaction between their lord and his estranged brother.

 

"Fucking asshole," mumbled Inuyasha.

 

"Shut up Inuyasha!" growled Kagome. She shot a glance over her shoulder, hoping Sesshomaru hadn't heard. He was long gone. "We just got here-- can't you give it a rest with him for two seconds? Takeo is hungry and tired. And so am I..."

 

"I'm sorry Kagome. Lets go." He put a hand on her shoulder and began to follow the young demon escort down the corridor. Secretly Inuyasha felt he had dodged a bullet with his haughty older brother. 'How could I know the bastard would be so touchy?'

 

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