InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ It's my Life ❯ Home at last. ( Chapter 17 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Disclaimer: Ok, now obviously I don’t own this, any original characters that pop up, yeah those are mine. But everyone else, those are all owned by Rumiko Takahashi.


Being slung over Sesshomaru’s shoulder was not the way Inuyasha would have preferred to travel; still he couldn’t help but notice just how much ground they had covered in such a small amount of time. He just wished he could somehow calm Shippo down, the poor kit had plastered himself to his chest and it didn’t seem like he’d be moving anytime soon. “Are we there yet?” Inuyasha growled. It was obvious Sesshomaru was not going to let him go, and Inuyasha wasn’t sure what would happen if he just hauled off and punched his brother in the head.

“Soon. A few more minutes.” Sesshomaru answered.

“Well you damn well better be letting me go when we get there.” Inuyasha muttered. Sesshomaru hmped slightly in reply.

“I can’t believe you did this, what is with you and embarrassing me today?” Inuyasha groaned. He didn’t even want to think about how it must have looked to everyone else.

“I do not know what you mean.” Sesshomaru replied.

“Yes you do!” Inuyasha snapped. “First that shit wile we were sleeping and then you toss me over your shoulder like I’m some pup!”

“There is nothing wrong with how we slept.” Sesshomaru said.

“Everyone saw!” Inuyasha spat.

“So? What is your point little brother?” Sesshomaru asked.

“My point is now I’m going to be taking shit for it!” Inuyasha answered.

“Did you not enjoy it?” Sesshomaru inquired.

“Fuck no!” Inuyasha shouted.

“Liar. You slept soundly and comfortably.” Sesshomaru chided.

“That’s not the point!” Inuyasha snarled.

“You do realize of course that your entire argument makes little to no sense.” Sesshomaru stated.

“If you had to put up with the kind of shit I do then you’d be pissed off too!” Inuyasha informed.

“They are human, and the miko no long holds power over you, you are more powerful then they are. Thus you will only take as much -shit- as you allow.” Sesshomaru declared. Although Sesshomaru did in a way, have a point, something about the smug, matter-of-fact way he said it just tore right into Inuyasha’s nerves.

“What are you some kind of expert now?!” Inuyasha raged as he thrashed slightly.

‘This Sesshomaru routinely deals with many different kinds of difficult people, or perhaps you believe that ruling the western lands is a simple thing?” Sesshomaru asked.

“Oh like that means anything, you don’t have to fight for respect, people know if they give you shit they get crushed or killed.” Inuyasha scoffed.

“Right.” Sesshomaru purred, clearly indicating that that was the whole point.

“Oh I suppose I should just kick there asses each and every time they do something I don’t like?” Inuyasha asked.

“It would solve many of your problems to be more dominate within your pack. They rely heavily upon you; therefore it is only right that you receive the proper respect.” Sesshomaru answered.

“Well there is just one problem with your plan you ass. They aren’t likely to stick around if I start knocking them around, not to mention the fact that friends don’t treat each other like that.” Inuyasha stated.

“And I suppose the treatment you suffered at the hands of the miko was friendly? They will not leave you for they depend on you far too much, without your strength they would surely die.” Sesshomaru countered. Inuyasha’s temper was continuing to flare, Sesshomaru’s arrogant ass knows it all attitude was already starting to drive him nuts, and they were supposed to work together?

“Maybe it works that way with demons, but not with humans.” Inuyasha retorted. “You don’t know shit about living with them, and from the sound of it, I bet everyone who serves you is damn near pissing themselves with fear all of the time.”

“That is not true. The ones under my care live quite pleasantly.” Was Sesshomaru’s indignant reply.

“Oh yeah, like they would ever tell you any different.” Inuyasha scoffed.

“Well then, you will simply see for yourself now wont you.” Sesshomaru said tersely. “But I will have you know that I perform my duties superbly. I see to it that those under my banner are cared for adequately. I am responsible for many and I take those duties very seriously.” The slow burn of Inuyasha’s anger erupted within him like a fiery torrent from hell. Took his duties seriously did he?

“Is that so?” Inuyasha asked slowly.

“Yes it is.” Sesshomaru answered.

“Alright then, answer me this, if you are so responsible, and do such a good job of taking care of people…then why…oh why dear brother have I been homeless and abandoned my entire FUCKING LIFE!!” Inuyasha bellowed.

Sesshomaru opened his mouth once, and then quickly closed it; however his silence only served to fuel Inuyasha’s anger.

“Oh what, where his all of your wisdom now?” Inuyasha mocked.

“I have never claimed to be wise.” Sesshomaru whispered.

“Well you sure act like it sometimes.” Inuyasha growled, his entire body shook with anger, he couldn’t believe Sesshomaru actually had the balls to tell him how good he was at taking care of people. Had the bastard actually forgotten what he had down or was he just trying to piss him off? Because if that was Sesshomaru’s aim the by gods he had succeeded. Shippo whimpered softly as a steady growl began to reverberate though Inuyasha’s chest.

“Calm yourself Inuyasha.” Sesshomaru said. Which sounded way to much like an order for Inuyasha’s taste. Forcing his anger down for the moment Inuyasha did his best to sound calm when he spoke.

“So just for review, you say that I should knock the crap out of people when they piss me off?”

“I did not say that, you are oversimplifying my words-” Sesshomaru started to say.

“Yes. Or. No Sesshomaru.”

Sesshomaru sighed. “In a certain context…..yes.” The Lord of the West said carefully.

“Good….now that I know you agree, you can’t really complain much when I do this!!” Inuyasha exclaimed as he pushed himself up for the moment, drawing his fist back and whipping it forward towards Sesshomaru’s head. Sesshomaru was just able to twist his head to the side, which caused Inuyasha’s fist to wiz paste his head, and the momentum behind the blow caused Inuyasha to lurch forward, nearly falling out of Sesshomaru’s grasp and the older Inu was forced to rapidly redistribute Inuyasha’s weight in order to keep him from plummeting down to the hard unforgiving earth.

Totally ignoring the fact that his brother had just saved him from massive bodily harm or worse, Inuyasha pushed himself up once more, preparing to strike out at Sesshomaru once more.

“Inuyasha! Stop this at once!” Sesshomaru ordered. Like hell he would! The asshole was at least getting one fist to the head.

‘Oh but I thought you said I should knock the crap out of people who piss me off remember? And no one pisses me off like you do!” Inuyasha shouted as he continued to thrash, trying to get the right angle to smack Sesshomaru’s brains out of his skull.

“You are being ridiculous!” Sesshomaru shot back.

“And you-” Inuyasha started before a set of sharp pains drew his attention to his chest. It was then he realized he was bleeding slightly, for Shippo’s claws had a death grip in his flesh. The kits eyes were impossibly wide and he was trembling.

“Please….stop….moving.” Shipp managed to squeak out.

“Oh shit Shippo! I’m so sorry!” I totally forgot….” Inuyasha sputtered.

“It’s ok….” Was Shippo’s meek reply. Quickly Inuyasha wrapped his arms tightly around the little kit. Damn it he had forgotten all about Shippo. That was not good, he had let his temper be the better of him, which had put Shippo’s life in danger…..some parent he was turning out to be.

He would have to control himself better; at least when Shippo was around, because sure a fall from this height would not feel pleasant to himself, but it would probably kill Shippo. A wave of guilt washed over Inuyasha, here he was screaming at Sesshomaru about not taking care of his responsibilities, and neglecting his own at the same time.

“You have not had the kit under your care for long, you will learn Inuyasha.” Sesshomaru said softly. What the? Was Sesshomaru trying to consol him? That didn’t…..what…….

“Araagh! Brain pain!!” Inu thought.

“You scare me sometimes you know that?” His Youki muttered.

All of a sudden Inuyasha realized that they had come to a stop, and Inuyasha noticed that Sesshomaru had landed on some sort of a tower and with one movement of his shoulder Sesshomaru deposited Inuyasha back on his feet. But before he could say anything about the fact Inuyasha’s eyes drank in the parts of the castle that he could see, and he had to resist the urge to gape. It wasn’t anything like he had ever seen. Every inch seemed to be made of some kind of bluish white stone, and it looked as if the entire castle had been carved from the same stone. Try as he might Inuyasha could not see even one grove within the walls where two blocks would have been placed together.

Slowly Inuyasha moved to be able to get a better view of the gigantic structure, and then he did gasp. Perhaps it was the way the dwindling sunlight came down, or maybe it was the stone itself. But the castle seemed to shimmer and glow, and it was almost as if the stone itself were not stone at all…but water, it had to be some sort of trick on the eyes but it almost appeared to be flowing, with little patterns shifting and changing like gentle stream.

It was nothing like Inuyasha had always thought it to be, he had always imagined it to be a massive warlike fortress, after all how could someone as cold as Sesshomaru live in anything that wasn’t just like him.

“Shippo…you really should look at this.” Inuyasha whispered.

“I’m…not moving.” The kit replied, tension thick in his voice.

“Kid we are on solid ground now.” Inuyasha chuckled.

“Don’t care. Not moving.” Shippo ground out. Inuyasha sighed, had the kit actually been that rattled?

“Inuyasha.” Sesshomaru’s voice broke Inuyasha away form his admiring.

“What?” He snapped. couldn’t Sesshomaru just shut up for ten friggin minutes? Sure he might have seen the place millions of times….but this was the first time Inuyasha had ever laid eyes upon it….the place that should have been his home.
“Come.” The older Inu said as he turned and headed through a doorway. Grumbling to himself Inuyasha reluctantly followed, knowing his crap luck this was going to be an elaborate trap designed to fuck with him as much as possible.

As he entered through the doorway two things caught his attention. The first was the fact that the interior of the castle was entirely different from the outsight. Smooth pristine white stone surrounded them, a startling change from flowing blue toned white from outside. It looked almost…sacred, as if only the truly privileged could ever hope to walk down these halls, and at the same time Inuyasha felt….different, he could feel something inside of him…something that resonated with every step. He had to forcibly control himself to keep from trembling. It was a powerful feeling….one that he couldn’t quite place….

Doing his best to push the feeling away Inuyasha instead forced his attention upon the structure once more, and he noticed that he could not detect even a hint of dirt anywhere, which brought forth the question of how the hell did they keep it so clean? Or did the place somehow clean itself? Indeed the untouched whiteness seemed to glow with a soft light, for even though the sun was beginning to fall behind the horizon, the hallway was well lit, yet there were touches that he could see to illuminate the hall. Even the floor was completely smooth under his feet, no grittiness whatsoever.

The second thing he noticed was the hallway was filled with guard, with weapons, sharp deadly weapons that were being pointed directly at….him. Baring his fangs Inuyasha took a step back, placing one hand on the hilt of his sword. “God damn it…I fucking knew it.” Inuyasha snarled. But before he could draw his Fang, Sesshomaru was in front of him, fangs bared.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Sesshomaru snapped.

“M-my Lord….you…you told us to be-” A very young looking kitsune guard started to say.

“Yes and while following my orders is wise, perhaps you may have noticed that invited him in.” Sesshomaru interrupted.

“W-well…re-reports of Lady Nefrume’s death have reached us and we thought…” Another guard stammered.

“Thought what?” Sesshomaru sneered. “That he is some sort of assassin that snuck in behind me? Do you think me that unobservant?”

“My Lord.” A much more impressive looking demon stepped forward, though Inuyasha could not quite tell what he was. “We are charged with your protection and the protection your home. Now this….hanyo…has entered illegally and…”

“Garith.” Sesshomaru growled “I have known you since I was a child, and your consul is welcome on occasion. However this ‘hanyo’ was brought here by my hand and will. Not only is this ‘hanyo’ my guest he is also my father’s youngest son, and my brother. Inuyasha.” More then a few jaws dropped, and Inuyasha himself was rather surprised by Sesshomaru’s words. The bastard was just shocking him left and right lately…it was starting to get annoying.


So distracted by his brother’s words and actions that Inuyasha almost missed the sudden shift in the air behind him. He turned, just in time to see the blade of an axe bearing down on him. Cursing himself for letting his guard down, there just wasn’t enough time to bring his sword up, it certainly didn’t help that his sword arm was currently cradling Shippo, and it wasn’t like he had practiced drawing his fang from the left side with his left hand, and the damn hallway was to narrow and crowded for him to be able to get out of the way. He was just going to have to grit his teeth and bear it. He had just enough time to twist so that the blade not strike Shippo nor catch him in the face, no…it looked like he was about to have a nice sized gash put into his shoulder…..argh….this was going to suck….but the axe wielding bitch was so going to regret this.

Just before the axe bit into his flesh there was yet another rush of movement behind him and something slammed into the back of his knee, causing his leg to go out from under him, which set him crashing onto his ass. Metal clashed about him and Inuyasha looked up to see the young kitsune guard from before blocking the axe blow with his own drawn blade.

“Did you not hear Lord Sesshomaru Garan? Or are your ears so full of yourself you can’t hear?” The fox spat before shoving the guard, Garan, back.

“Feh! As if a disgusting hanyo is actually nergh!” Garan began to say before Sesshomaru simply appeared in front of him, his hand closing around the top of the guards head, claws digging into flesh as Sesshomaru savagely wrenched him up into the air

“Hey look at that! He’s gonna crush his head, that’s different, he’s usually more of a strangulation kinda guy.” Inuyasha’s Youki chuckled.

“You dare!!?” Sesshomaru seethed, each syllable enunciated carefully, and Inuyasha knew from personal experience that when Sesshomaru did that, the demon Lord was well and truly pissed. “I find myself coming up with very, very few reasons not to crush the life out of you at present time, so it would be in your best interests to enlighten me. Quickly.” Sesshomaru threatened squeezing down harder upon the demon’s skull. To be honest Inuyasha as at least half expecting it to pop any second now.

Garith abruptly threw himself do at Sesshomaru’s feet, face down, as low to the floor as he could. “My lord, please….I beg you for mercy.” Garith pleaded. Slowly Sesshomaru turned his head to stare at the prone guard.

“And why are you begging for this?” Sesshomaru asked, jerking his head towards Garan, who was currently torn between the instinctual push to try and free himself and the knowledge that striking Sesshomaru would be a very bad thing indeed. Inuyasha actually had to resist the urge to laugh; now he had something else to pick on Sesshomaru about. He had always imagined anyone who served Sesshomaru would be cool, calm, and extremely disciplined. Yet he had only been in the castle but a few minutes and already cracks were appearing in the ‘perfect ness’.

“He is my son.” Garith answered.

“Garith and Garan? Are those even real names? Seriously who the hell comes up with something like that? Is it just me or does that sound like some kind of bowel movement? Something like, hey guys…I gotta go to the Garith and drop a Garan…I knew I shouldn’t have eaten that cheese.” Inuyasha’s Youki quipped.

“Hmm…is that so?” Sesshomaru muttered before turning his attention back on the gasping demon. Garan’s struggles were getting weaker, and Inuyasha had the hunch that some of Sesshomaru‘s poison probably had something to do with that. “So you not only disobey my orders, not only attack my brother, but you also shame your family. Perhaps ending you would be for the best.” Sesshomaru said, with so much coldness that Inuyasha involuntarily shivered.

“Lord Sesshomaru please!” Garith howled “I….I will do whatever is necessary to right this. Please do not kill my son. Think of it as a favor for an old friend?” Sesshomaru’s face softened slightly.

“Very well Garith.” Sesshomaru replied dropping Garan who now clutched at his at his head and began coughing and sputtering. “You owe your father much, for if it were anyone else I would not grant such a request. However Garith, perhaps you should remind your son of the meaning of discipline, respect and his duty. I expect much more from your house then this.” Sesshomaru stated.

“My house has already been sent into disgrace.” Garith whispered bitterly.

“You act as if I have somehow decided to spite you. It was a fair match; I cannot help it if it did not go your way.” Sesshomaru replied. Garith said nothing but the implication was there. Inuyasha had the feeling that there was more going on then he knew. Sesshomaru closed his eyes for a moment before turning his attention back on the still prone Garan. “You…boy, what is your rank and station?” Sesshomaru asked.

With streams of blood running down his face Garan struggled to answer. “First…first class, -gasp- rear wall and…s-southern wing.” Sesshomaru’s eyes held thought for a moment before speaking.

“From this day forward your answer will be. Sixth class, mess hall and kitchen duty.” Garan’s eyes went wide.

“What?!” he managed to spit out. Sesshomaru merely cocked an eyebrow and Garan promptly shut shit mouth and lowered his eyes. Looking back at the guards Sesshomaru waved his hand dismissively.
“All of you…return to your posts.” He ordered, before pointing at the kitsune guard. “You however, stay.” The fox gulped slightly, his back stiffening. As Garan and the rest of the guard began to file out, Garith slowly returned to his feet, his eyes locked on Sesshomaru and Inuyasha could practically taste the tension coming off of the guard. “Yes Garith? Is there something else you require?” Sesshomaru asked.

“N-no…I only….” Garith muttered.

“Only what? This is not like you Garith…not like you at all.” Sesshomaru said.

“Sixth class sir?…..Guarding the mess hall?…taking orders from cooks….do…do you have any idea how humiliating that will be?” Garith asked.

“I do, that would be the whole point. I’m not sure what is in your son’s head…but perhaps this will remove it.” Sesshomaru answered. Garith sighed, and it was a heavy disheartened sigh.

“My house….why….why are you crushing it…my lord?” Garith whispered.

“Garith….you have served me well, and served my father well before that. I was and still am saddened by what has transpired. But you agreed to it before hand. I would have to break my word to undo what has been done and you know I can not do that.” Sesshomaru stated. Inuyasha as beyond confused. Just what the hell was going on, he was tempted to ask….but given the fact that Sesshomaru was refusing to answer any questions unless they were alone lately, he didn’t see much point.

“I don’t trust her, and I do not see how you can.” Garith spat, his temper rising.

“Whoever said I did? If you would like to reclaim your position, then make a formal request. Until then there is nothing that can be done.” Sesshomaru replied coolly. “You may go.” Snorting Garith spun on his heel, and stomped out of the now much emptier corridor.

“Well that was…different.” Inuyasha drawled.

“Indeed….I had not expected all that, and no…before you even say it. This is not normal behavior here.” Sesshomaru said. Damn…how did he know? Well….that didn’t mean Inuyasha couldn’t give him shit about it later.

“Ah-ahem…my Lord…you wished for me…to stay?” The fox stuttered. Judging by the look of him, Inuyasha figured that the kitsune couldn’t be much older then himself, youth, combined with how violent Sesshomaru had just been…..well Inuyasha couldn’t really blame the guy for being nervous. Judging by his looks, the kitsune probably made all the girls swoon, rich lime green eyes twinkled with undoubtedly hidden mischief, his skin was smooth and tan, although Inuyasha was unsure if it was due to exposure to the sun or birth, the fox’s bottom lip was noticeably larger then his top one, which gave the impression of a everlasting pout. Armor and cloth hid the body from his eyes but based on the size of him, Inuyasha figured he had to be at least decently built, if not a little lithe.

…..and why the fuck was he checking the guy out?!?

“Mmmmm…well he’s no Sesshomaru, but I’ll give him at least a 6 and a half, maybe even a seven if he put some effort into it.…mmhhmmm he looks….flexible” Inuyasha’s Youki whispered slyly.

“I had not forgotten.” Sesshomaru responded. Inuyasha wasn’t sure how it was even possible but the fox stiffened even more.

“Sorry…I…I..I…meant….um..̶ 1; The guard stuttered. Given his reaction Inuyasha had the feeling this was the first time the fox had really stood in Sesshomaru’s presence like this, let alone have the Ice Lord speaking to him. Inuyasha supposed for someone who didn’t really know Sesshomaru all that well, it might just be an awe inspiring event.

“At ease child, out of all the guards who had assembled here, you are one of the few who is within my good graces.” Sesshomaru said, a small smirk adorning his lips. But if the fox relaxed at all, Inuyasha couldn’t see it. “Your name and rank.” Sesshomaru asked.

“You don’t even know who he is?” Inuyasha asked.

“I have a great many serving under me Inuyasha, and there are many more who have recently graduated from the academy.” Sesshomaru answered.

“Wait….academy?” Inuyasha muttered.

“Did you think my servants appeared out of air?” Sesshomaru said.

“I’ve never been here…so how the fuck am I supposed to know how shit works.” Inuyasha snapped.

“Umm…if…if…I could interrupt for a moment. My…name is Atrius*, third class, east wall and…uh…compost storage and removal.” The fox, Atrius said meekly. Sesshomaru nodded in acknowledgment, Inuyasha however started to chuckle.

“Wait…you guard trash?”

“Uh…well….no…I don’t….guard it…per say…and I’ll admit its not…what I had in mind when I…” Atrius mumbled, clearly embarrassed.

“I do not see what is so amusing to you Inuyasha. It is an important duty, perhaps not a glamorous one, but vital none the less.” Sesshomaru informed.

“Who in there right mind is going to steal garbage? Or do you think you are so important that people would actually want your leftover crap?” Inuyasha asked.

“No Inuyasha….however there have been occurrences where intruders have attempted to gain access onto the grounds during refuse removal, and if it means anything to you, your own mother’s life was saved due to the actions of a guard such as Atrius.” Sesshomaru answered. Well that little factoid stilled Inuyasha’s mirth. Addressing Atrius once more Sesshomaru spoke.

“Am I to assume by your display there with Garan that you are at least somewhat versed in combat?”

“I….well I graduated top of my class, but I mean….I don’t have much…actual combat experience.” Atrius replied. Inuyasha popped his knuckles lightly, something that made Atrius jump slightly.

“Neither does Garan by the look of it.” Inuyasha scoffed. “The runt is lucky the hallway was so damn crowded.” Inuyasha completely omitted the fact that he had also been pushing away nagging feelings of glee at his brother coming to his defense. Another trick, nothing more nothing less.

“Bastard wasn’t anywhere near my level, not then nor now.” Atrius growled, showing a hint of steel within him for the first time.

“Yet he outranked you.” Sesshomaru stated more then asked. Atrius actually blushed.

“And what a cute blush it is.” Inuyasha’s Youki said.

“Man….what the fuck? I mean first Sesshomaru and now the fox…what the fuck is up with you?” Inuyasha thought.

“Lonely. Horny. Want attention. But you are right….Sesshomaru is leagues ahead of him.” Inu-Youki replied.

Ugh….gods help him….

“Well….Garith…commanded when I first arrived here…and I am…lowborn.” Atrius explained.

“Ah.” Was Sesshomaru’s reply, as if it explained everything. Personally Inuyasha was damn confused.

“Lowborn? The fuck does that have to do with anything?” Inuyasha spat. Atrius fidgeted slightly, obviously not used to the kind of language Inuyasha was using.

“It means his house is not as prestigious as Garan’s.” Sesshomaru said. To his credit Inuyasha managed to rein in his tongue for the moment.

“Yeah like that has anything to do with anything. Oh so your -house- or whatever is -higher- and all of a sudden your better? Give me a break.” Inuyasha snorted.

“I will not argue with you, however you can not adequately argue that point anyway. Perhaps I should point out that despite your human blood, you are one of the highest born, noble blood runs though your veins.” Sesshomaru said. Inuyasha just rolled his eyes, oh yeah he was so -highborn- that he was lucky if he could find a tree to rest in so he didn’t have to sleep with his head in the mud. “Now Atrius.” Sesshomaru said. The Fox’s body instantly stiffened. “You will escort Inuyasha to the dinning hall, you will guide him around the castle if he wishes. You will report any disrespect of him to me directly and more importantly you will follow his orders. To. The. Letter. Do you understand?”

“Yes sir!” Atrius exclaimed.

“One more thing.” Sesshomaru said as he pulled some rolled up piece of paper out of his coat and handed it to Atrius. “You will deliver this to Retsu the moment you enter the dinning hall.”

“Yes sir! I understand sir!” Atrius repeated. Wait a minute…what the hell did he need this kid to lead him around for? Annoyance sweep over Inuyasha.

“I don’t need a fucking babysitter bastard.” Atrius choked slightly at Inuyasha’s words.

“My Lord…..you-you really should not speak to Lord Sesshomaru like that.” Atrius whispered. Inuyasha rolled his eyes.

“No you shouldn’t speak to Sesshomaru like that. I however do what I damn well please.” Inuyasha said. Sesshomaru sighed before turning and beginning to walk down an adjacent hallway. “Oi! Now where are you going?” Inuyasha asked.

“I have work to attend to, and I highly doubt you want to sit and watch as I go over reports and speak to my Baron’s. Not to mention I doubt you could even keep quiet loud enough for anything to get done.” Sesshomaru answered. As Sesshomaru neared a corner that would take him out of sight Atrius glared at Inuyasha like he was something that had never been seen before.

“I can’t believe you would speak to him like that. Th-the disrespect…the audacity….I’ve never….” Atrius hissed, although his tone was more amazement then scolding. Inuyasha shot the fox a sideways look and grinned.

“Oh really? Hmm then you’ll love this.” Inuyasha said before raising his voice. “Oi Sesshomaru!!” He called down the hall, his brother’s head soon peaking around the corner.

“Yes?” The Lord of the West replied.

“You’re a bastard.” Inuyasha said, grinning ear to ear as Atrius sputtered.

“Hnnn” was Sesshomaru’s only reply before he continued to his destination. Inuyasha continued to gaze at the spot Sesshomaru had occupied before his stomach alerted him to its lack of occupants. Dinning hall eh?

“Well alright Atrius….why don’t you show me and the kit here to the food eh?” Inuyasha said.

“Right…uh…wait kit? As in kitsune?” Atrius replied, instantly perking up, hell his ears even popped up and twitched.

“Yes….” Inuyasha drawled. Honestly could this guy not smell Shippo?

“Um where?! O-Outside?” Atrius stuttered, obviously excited about something. It was at that moment that Shippo chose to peak his head up out from his hidey hole inside of Inuyasha’s shirt.

“Uh….hi” The little kit said sheepishly waving slightly. Atrius looked Shippo over, before visibly deflating.

“Awww you’re just a kid.” Atrius whined.

“Well I’m only 20 you know!” Shippo snapped. Really? Inuyasha had never been sure how old Shippo really was, demon’s aged different the he as a hanyo did. He just never wanted to ask, the last thing he wanted was to look stupid or something.

“Damn….” Atrius sighed. “Oh well….follow me please.” Atrius gestured slightly before beginning down another hallway. Humorously enough Shippo immediately ducked back down inside Inuyasha’s shirt, obviously more then a little rattled by the previous events and the drastic change in setting.

“Are you sure this is a good idea?” The little fox whispered.

“Not entirely.” Inuyasha confessed. Catching up to Atrius Inuyasha couldn’t help but wonder why the guard had been so excited to hear about a kitsune. “So what was that all about?” Inuyasha asked. “You have a problem with my kit?”

“Err….your kit?” Atrius asked. Inuyasha just nodded, and he could feel Shippo perform a mini happy dance. “Adopted I assume?” Another nod from Inuyasha.

“Haven’t seen another fox in a while or something?” Inuyasha inquired.

“Uh well no….its just….well most of them are taken. Nothing against other species, but I’d like to….make time with one of my own.”

“Make time?” Inuyasha puzzled. Atrius blushed, and began twiddling his fingers.

“Um you know….fool around…maybe….mate..” The last word was squeaked out.

“Ohhhh I see….well even if you wanted to wait he is a boy and all.” Inuyasha said. Shippo snapped at his stomach.

“I can hear you, you know.” The child grumbled. Atrius simply shot Inuyasha a confused look.

“What ever you say my Lord.” And Inuyasha got the feeling that Atrius did not understand what he was hinting at. Which didn’t make sense….boys didn’t mate with boys. All Sesshomaru…….stuff…aside. Pushing thoughts about Atrius’s desires and his own would be mating aside Inuyasha still found himself rather enthralled by the splendor of the halls he now walked though, and that feeling in his chest, it wasn’t that it was getting worse….because he still couldn’t quite identify it, but it was getting stronger.

“What is this place made out of?” Inuyasha wondered allowed.

“Can’t say I know.” Atrius said. “Whatever it is I think it must be rather rare. Um….I think they say that some ancestor of yours found it, and another later decided to construct the castle from it. But I also heard that this place was seriously damaged in some conflict hundreds of years ago, so it is said that the current look and build of the estate was designed by Inu-Taisho himself.”

Continuing on their way they soon turned a corner and bare white walls gave way to rich tapestries and various paintings of different styles. As jaded and Spartan as Inuyasha had become in his life, he couldn’t help but feel a little sense of innocent wonderment.

“My old man huh?” Inuyasha muttered.

“So it is said, but Lord Sesshomaru would know for sure I’d think.” Atrius replied before veering the topic. “My Lord…if I may be so bold, why is this the first time any of us have ever seen you?” He asked.

“What?” Inuyasha replied, not really paying attention.

“Well it is just that…I have been in Lord Sesshomaru’s service for at least 6 years now and I’ve never laid eyes upon you, and from the sound of all the confusion when be first found you and Lord Sesshomaru, other’s who have served longer then I did not recognize you either. I’m sure you are busy with your own duties but do you never wish to visit your family?” Atrius asked. Inuyasha’s often dormant but never truly gone anger burst back up through him, what did this little shit actually think he’d been out of his own by his own choice?

“And just what do you think I do with my life?” Inuyasha snapped.

“Well…I’m not sure….I guess I assumed you had your own lands to rule or something as I’ve never seen you at Lord Sesshomaru’s side.” Atrius innocently replied. Inuyasha had to resist the urge to smack blond haired kitsune guard. No…he had to remain calm, Shippo was around…and there was also the chance that Atrius had no idea of his and Sesshomaru’s situation.

“Well let me make the situation clear for you kid. The reason you’ve never seen me, and the reason none of your little guard buddies has either. Is that this is the first time I’ve ever set one foot into this place.” Inuyasha stated. Calm…be calm, breath in, breath out…..

“Why would you avoid your family like that?” Atrius asked, a bit of distain creeping into his voice. Oh so the fox boy had a mouth on him it seemed.

“Gee….lets see…Ah yes now I remember, it has something to do with Sesshomaru making it deathly clear that I have never been welcome in his home, it also might have something to do with him beating the shit out of me for the majority of my life, and I’m almost positive it has something to do with that very same bastard you call Lord abandoning me when I was just a child, real shitty day that one was.” Inuyasha spat, just barely keeping himself in check. This kid was REALLY rubbing the WRONG wound.

“What?….I’m sorry but if this is a joke it’s not very funny. Lord Sesshomaru is an Inu after all, and all Inu are violently protective of their families and Lord Sesshomaru is by far the noblest demon I have ever met.” Atrius responded, a bit of admiration evident in his voice.

“Are you calling me a liar?” Inuyasha snarled, just barely restraining himself from pouncing on Atrius.

“Well…uh…no…it’s just..its hard to believe that Lord Sesshomaru would ever…” Atrius began before a loud screeching voice broke through his own.

“What are you doing here!?!” It rang out. Turning his head Inuyasha located the high pitched screamer.

Jaken.

The little toad clutched at the staff of two heads in his hands, his large bug eye’s bulging out even more then usual.

“You have something to say to me you little squirt?” Inuyasha asked, ah what perfect timing, now he had something he was perfectly fine with pounding on. After all, Atrius didn’t seem to know what all had transpired between him and Sesshomaru, but Jaken….well that little shit knew all about it.

“How dare you defile these hallowed halls with your putrid presence!” Jaken shrieked. Atrius’s head whipped around to stare at Jaken, surprise ruling over his features, and he was just about to speak when Inuyasha interrupted.

“Oooh big words from the slimy toad.” Inuyasha taunted, and once again he was struck with the odd question of why the hell did Sesshomaru keep the little scum sucker around anyway?

“You know you are most certainly not welcome in Lord Sesshomaru’s home. Just how did you get in here anyway? The Lord will have your head for this!” Jaken cried out.

“My head huh…” Inuyasha said. “Well you know…Sesshomaru has tried, more then a few times, and he hasn’t had the greatest of a track record.”

“The only reason you have survived my Lord’s assaults is because of sheer dumb luck!” Jaken spat.

“Hmmm, maybe or maybe not. But I’m here now, and I don’t see the bastard anywhere so just what are you going to do about it!” Inuyasha replied smugly.

“I….I would gladly give my life to protect my Lord’s home from the likes of you!” Jaken shot back. But Inuyasha didn’t need any heightened senses to see that the little toad’s body quaked with fear. “So remove yourself from Lord Sesshomaru’s estate or be prepared to forfeit your life your slime!” Inuyasha growled, baring his fangs.

“Oh you must be feeling mighty brave to be ordering me around.” He snarled. Jaken’s eye’s widened even further, and the small toad took a step back. Inuyasha was surprised he hadn’t pissed himself.

“Even if you kill me, there are many others! So leave while you still you disgusting hanyo!” Jaken shouted, although fear clearly laced his words.

“Hey!” Shippo cried out, popping his head out from under Inuyasha’s shirt. “Why don’t you shut your friggin mouth before I come over there and kick your little green butt!” Inuyasha actually had to hold back a chuckle, but it did do his heart good to have someone stick up for him, even if it was just a little fox kit yelling at a slimy toad who he could crush with a sneeze.

“I most certainly will not be quiet! The two of you have no business here, this is the honorable Lord Sesshomaru’s home. A mongrel like Inuyasha has no right to be here!” Jaken snapped. Inuyasha had to wonder if the toad screeched and shouted all the time, or did he ever just talk normally, because as much as he seemed to shriek Inuyasha was surprised his head didn’t explode or something, of course if he didn’t stop all of that noise pretty soon, Inuyasha was going to have to do with himself.

Only with his hands.

And a lot of squeezing.

Because as funny as it all was, he had a friggin headache.

Granted he normally would have been rather pissed at what the toad was saying and would have probably busted him up shortly, the humor brought on by Shippo’s actions was greatly dulling his anger.

With a short jump Shippo popped out of Inuyasha’s shirt, landing in front of Jaken Shippo pointed at him accusingly.

“Honorable my red fur tail covered butt! He left Inuyasha to die when he was just a kid, he was probably younger then me! And then he’s tried to kill him and steal his sword. What kind of a brother is that?!” Shippo snapped. Jaken bristled with anger and Inuyasha became a little more alert. If the little snot even tried to point that staff at Shippo he would soon find himself without a head, the toad was a joke, but the gouts of flame that two headed staff spat out weren’t.

“Lord Sesshomaru has the right to do whatever he pleases. Inuyasha is a stain upon his name and the Tessaiga should rightfully belong to Lord Sesshomaru.” Jaken blustered.

“Well it doesn’t! Inuyasha’s dad left it to him!” Shippo shot back.

“Grrr…I’ve heard enough!” Jaken growled before looking at Atrius as if he hadn’t noticed him before. “You there! Guard, why are you just standing there? Remove this filth from Lord Sesshomaru’s home!” Atrius scowled.

“First off toad, you don’t order me. Now I have held my tongue partly because I was unsure of what action to take and partly because you people keep shouting over me.” The older fox positioned himself between Jaken and Inuyasha and Shippo, the smaller kit still standing his ground in front of Inuyasha, before continuing. “Lord Sesshomaru brought Lord Inuyasha here. I am under direct order’s from the Lord to escort Lord Inuyasha to the dinning hall where he may receive a meal should he wish. This -filth- is Lord Sesshomaru’s guest and his sibling and I have also been ordered by the Lord himself to report any and all disrespect to him personally. So if I where you I’d start practicing begging for forgiveness right about now.

“Ridiculous! Lord Sesshomaru would never…” Jaken started.

“What you believe or do not believe is of little to no concern to me. But you can explain to Lord Sesshomaru the meaning of your behavior later I’m sure. Now if you will excuse us.” Atrius said as he roughly shoved Jaken out of the way with his foot. “Follow me please.”

Interesting…but what was more worth it? Food or beating Jaken. “Easy answer.” Inuyasha thought, strolling forward Inuyasha caught a hold of the back of Shippo’s coat and with a flick of his wrist flipped the small fox kit back up onto his shoulder as he followed Atrius, leaving the sputtering toad behind.

As the continued on Inuyasha noticed a complete change in Atrius’s demeanor and he was sure if he should ask about it or not. After all the guy was just a guard, not a good friend of his, and he was kinda glad that the older kitsune had shut up, he had really been pissing him off earlier, then again Inuyasha supposed it wasn’t really the guy’s fault, he obviously didn’t know Sesshomaru and his history.

“How far is it?” Inuyasha asked. It was getting late, he was hungry and he was sure Shippo could also use a bite to eat. He couldn’t help but wonder if the others would show up. Normally he would be sure Kagome would be making a bee line straight for him, she always did that, even if it meant Inuyasha would have to save her from almost certain death for doing so. But after everything that had happened he wasn’t totally sure what might go down.

“Still a ways away. Its on the other side of the castle, we will have to cross the main hall.” Atrius replied, voice clipped and tight. A complete change from the change from the bubbly warm voice from before. Inuyasha sighed.

“Alright…I know I am going to regret asking this, but what crawled up your ass?” Yet to Inuyasha’s disbelief Atrius immediately answered.

“I..I have always looked up to…Lord Sesshomaru, I am indebted to your family as Lord Sesshomaru himself save me, my mother and my father from Panther demon traders.”

“Traders?” Inuyasha puzzled.

“There are demon’s who….how shall I put this…wish to were the pelts of other demon’s. Granted there are also human’s who wish the same, but most demon’s will not allow themselves to be hired by lowly human’s, but…you’d be surprised of the number who will. And when anyone offers gold for something, there always seems to be someone willing to collect.” Atrius replied, his voice thick with past emotion.

“Just like the Thunder brothers….” Shippo muttered, clutching at Inuyasha’s shoulder.

“The who?” Atrius asked.

“The kid’s parents were killed by a pair of brothers. The bald one took to wearing their fur around his waist.” Inuyasha explained, sensing Shippo’s distress over the memory Inuyasha slipped his hand up and into his kit’s hair ruffling it roughly, before sliding his fingers down to lightly rub Shippo’s neck.

“And what happened to these brothers?” Atrius asked, his voice tight and angry.

“Dead.” Inuyasha stated plainly.

“Good!” Atrius spat, nodding his head in time with his words. “I am sorry little one.” The blond fox looked over at Shippo a warm smile sitting on his lips. “I know how it is to lose your parents to such greed.”

“Hey I thought you said Sesshomaru saved you guys?” Inuyasha muttered. Atrius nodded and continued.

“It is a very serious crime to kill demons for the fur of our true forms. Although one way to get around that is to win them in a dual, it is still looked down on here in the western lands. We had lived in a small village, just us and a few dozen other demons‘. But in the weeks prior our village had been attacked several times, and a few of my neighbors had been killed. Then they found out that me and my parents lived there, and I guess they had a back order for kitsune fur….” Atrius growled. “Word had reached Lord Sesshomaru about what had been going on, and I guess he took it pretty seriously because he and a few other soldiers showed up. My father had tried to stop them at first, I didn’t really know how to fight…so I couldn’t do much, but he was no match for them. Fortunately Lord Sesshomaru showed up, and made quick work of them. It was….amazing to witness how powerful he was….and a little scary. Unfortunately my father ended up dieing from his wounds not long after, my mother….she lingered for a few months, but the loss of her mate shattered her, she was a good kind woman, but I couldn’t say she was very strong, and she soon past on.”

Inuyasha made a small vocal acknowledgement but said nothing, he had lost everything before he had even been able to have much, and he knew words like I know how you feel did nothing, so why say them?

“ After that I knew what I wanted to do, I wanted to be strong, to learn how to fight, so I would be helpless again, I also wanted to keep the same from happening to anyone else. So joining the army of the western lands seemed like a good path to chose. I was also grateful for Lord Sesshomaru’s aid but more then that, it was the stories my father had told me of Inu-Taisho, the great dog demon of the west. Apparently my father had met him once, and the memory stuck with him for the rest of his days. He told me of the ideals Inu-Taisho fought for and the creed of his family, and I felt that if I could see this for myself, if I could somehow help such a Lord, then my debt would be repaid, and also…now as a homeless orphan…it might give my life some great purpose.” Atrius said, becoming a bit more energetic at the telling of his dream. It was innocent in a way that made Inuyasha feel so very old…and jaded.

“Creed? What the hell are you talking about?” Inuyasha asked, he really hated how in the dark he was about everything. Atrius glanced at him, an even more confused look on his face.

“The creed of your family…your code….you truly do not know of it?” Atrius asked incredulously.

“If I did I wouldn’t be asking now would I?” Inuyasha snapped, becoming slightly annoyed. Atrius swallowed.

“I guess not. It is just strange. Anyway um…well…I’ll do my best to uh…..crap ok here goes. One. Allow no trespasses go unpunished. An Inu’s lands are their and theirs and none shall have them. At least…I think that’s how it goes, don’t quote me ok? All I know is Inu usually look at their lands as sacred to them, and out o fall the breeds of demon I know, Inu defend theirs the most zealously.” Atrius explained.

“I wouldn’t know, I have no lands…hell I don’t even have a hut.” Inuyasha grumbled. It was true, he didn’t have anything not really. Just his sword, and clothes, and now he had lost half of them. Sometimes he wondered if the lack of anything to call his own might have something to do with why in the center of his being he always felt so empty and lost. It certainly didn’t help that he didn’t belong anywhere.

“Um…Two. Loyalty is to be honored, always care for those who serve you and those you govern. That’s the one that always spoke to me. I’ve been able to see much in my time here, but from what I’ve seen, Inu, or at least your family take care of their people much better then most. I think it goes back to Inu possessiveness. I can’t tell you how horrible I’ve seen some of the other breeds treat their people and there seem to be no end to the tales of Inu-Taisho great kindness and charity, and not just in the history books, but seemingly any demon of a certain age probably has an Inu-Taisho story for you.” Atrius continued. That one Inuyasha could sorta understand, his rage had always bubbled to the surface when someone tried to harm his group, but all the disrespect made it hard at times. “And finally, at least to my knowledge, is the very cornerstone of your family. Three. Family is Sacred. Three simple words. Although under that I remember reading how important family is to Inu, or at least your branch of your breed, I know in particular that pups hold a great deal of important. Even it was like your brother’s cousin’s second mate’s grandchild, if it shares your blood you are to look after it, protect it, and feed it, etcetera, etcetera. So if….Lord Sesshomaru truly did abandon you as a child….then he broke your most sacred of law and I just…I can’t conceive of it.” Atrius finished.

Inuyasha’s hackles rose slightly….well wasn’t that interesting.

“You know, not to but in but I can’t help but think that it’s pretty sad for you to learn about your own family from strangers.” Shippo whispered. Inuyasha ground his teeth together, his own family huh….

Some fucking family.

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Sessho maru cursed himself as he stormed though the halls, he couldn’t believe how fast things had grown worse. He had not intended to anger Inuyasha, he had sincerely wanted to help, but Inuyasha’s naivety had amused him, he couldn’t help but pick on him a little, and for the first time in his life he felt a little bit of a brotherly tug in his heart, no Youki, no instincts, just a small desire to play with his little brother a little….and then he had walked right into a hole.

He had only been attempting to gain Inuyasha’s trust, and he had to admit that he was proud of how well he had been able to handle things after his father’s untimely death. Well….he was still proud of himself in all areas but one.

Inuyasha.

Oh if only he knew then what he knew now…..not that that mattered at this point. What he had done was a massive offense, he knew that then, and he knew it now. But he had always been able to lie to himself, and it had not helped that some of the elders had supported is actions. Hatred towards Hanyo wasn’t something he alone possessed, indeed many considered Inuyasha to be Inu-Taisho’s greatest mistake, the one true blemish on a truly great Lord.

Feh…if father were still around he’d be beating the shit out of a great many demon’s. Sesshomaru included. But Inu-Taisho was no longer here….so Sesshomaru was going to have to step up.

But how?

Well obliviously he was going to have to be very careful with what he said around his brother. Or maybe he shouldn’t? Maybe he could go straight to the truth. It would be so much easier, he wouldn’t have to hide things, to think of ways to slowly introduce Inuyasha to the truth. It would be so much easier….

But he just didn’t feel that Inuyasha would accept the truth. This was obviously going to take some time, and a great deal of it. He just had to hope that finally being home would soften Inuyasha, if only slightly. What he needed was time to observe his little brother, to discover how he worked.

Sesshomaru continued on his way to the administrative chambers, passing numerous servants of his without even a word, a plan slowly forming in his mind.

The first thing he was going to have to do is have Inuyasha pampered. After a lifetime of harshness surely his baby brother could appreciate a nice hot bath, some good clothes, and maybe even a massage. Sesshomaru smile inwardly, a part of him wished he could be the one doing the massaging. But with only one arm his attempt would be less then stellar, a fact that angered him, but he was willing to bet that Komar’s talents would do the trick, melting his foul tempered sibling, hell….after the week he had already had, perhaps he would also be calling on Komar, and the man did enjoy his work.

Finally he reached his destination, the guards at the door standing straighter in attention.

“Have Imalia sent to me.” Sesshomaru ordered, one of the guards opened the door and Sesshomaru proceeded though it, closing it behind him. Quickly he made hi way to the large chair in the center of the room, he usually preferred to sit at his deck, but after such a tiresome, trying day, he more preferred the large, soft cushion’s of the chair that he had named “The Lord chair” in his childhood. Smiling at the memory Sesshomaru sighed pleasantly as his body slide into the soft material, his feet and back thanking him immediately. Sleep sounded good right about then, but he knew that he still had things to do before he could afford to retire for the night. For one thing he knew that the moment Daigon learned that Inuyasha was now within the castle the wind elemental would undoubtedly want to conduct a thorough examination of him. However he suspected that his fiery younger brother would be able to tolerate the antics of his eccentric healer. So perhaps it would be best to put off such a meeting, at least until tomorrow. “Why do I think I am not going to get much rest tonight…” Sesshomaru muttered to himself. His stomach grumbled slightly and Sesshomaru rolled his eyes in annoyance. “And to top it all off my body ordains to remind me that it wants something.”

“Well at least it’s not reminding you of Inuyasha’s affect on it eh?” His Youki snickered.

A small blessing.

A firm knocking radiated from the door.

“Who requests to enter my chambers?” Sesshomaru asked, trying to sound official and agitated all at the same time. He hoped that it was nothing important, he wanted a few more moments of peace. It was too late in the night for it to be Rin however, and that lowered the chance of it being a trivial visit. Maybe his words and tone would scare them off?

“It is Imalia milord. You sent for me?” A strong accented female voice said.

Well……Damn.

“Enter.” Sesshomaru said. Slowly the door opened at the demoness entered, closing the door firmly behind her. Resting in his chair Sesshomaru looked over the woman who was now in charge of his entire army, the demoness who had defeated Garith in combat and taken his place. It had been a very ancient law, one that decreed that one could claim a position by defeating the current holder in a dual. Sesshomaru himself had forgotten that such a law was even on the books. The woman had caused quiet a stir actually, bursting in to the academy and demanding entrance. Sesshomaru himself had no been there at the time, but from the report that he had read it seemed that Garith had taunted Imalia, questioning her heritage and combat prowess, apparently Garith had, had a hard time believe that a woman could do the things Imalia claimed have done and be able to do. Apparently Imalia had simply wished to join the forces of the west at first, but Garith’s taunting had, as the report put it -pissed her off-. Somehow she had known of the law, and thus challenged Garith and Garith had accepted. Perhaps foolish pride was to blame, Garith was a good friend, an excellent general, and a good trainer, but he often put far too much importance of birth and lineage. He simply refused to believe that a non-noble, ex mercenary from a far away land could possibly defeat him. So an official presence was requested, and then the impossible had occurred. Garith had been defeated, quite easily by eye witness accounts, Garith had simply not been able to come up with an answer to the dual blade, almost dance like, exotic style Imalia commanded.

When Sesshomaru had learned of what had transpired he had not been pleased. It wasn’t bad enough that his highest ranked officer had been crushed by some stranger from a foreign land, but now she was also by law in a position that only one of his most trusted servants should be assigned, and short of killing her there was nothing he could do to change it. Oh he could cast her out, but without adequate reason the political backlash would be tremendous. He might not care what the elders thought, for some reason his people had become enamored by the bronze skinned beauty. The very idea that a person of humble birth could earn a prestigious position purely on their own merits had simply delighted the masses of his subjects and thus Imalia had gained a sizable measure of influence whether she knew it or not, and while Sesshomaru had no particular problem with someone earning their way though life in such a fashion, he did not like the situation one bit. He did not trust her, and he was confused as to why his people thought he could. He was uneasy with the woman’s popularity, and while he still seemed to be the more beloved figure, he did not like the idea of someone being more loved and respected by his people then him. Such a thing was dangerous for a ruler, for if someone of lesser prestige somehow managed to kill him and attempt to take his place, all of the west would revolt. But if someone who was held higher then even himself was to perform such an act…the same could not be counted on. Fortunately him, his father before him, and his family in general were lionized in the west, and Sesshomaru supposed that was one advantage demon’s had over human’s, demon’s lived a great deal longer, and thus ended up forming much deeper bonds of loyalty then a human ever could. Still should he unjustly rid himself of Imalia, it could damage him in the eyes of his people, and that angered him. He had gone to great lengths to gain his people’s love, and Sesshomaru had to admit, as a ruler, he to loved his people. But he was Inu, and Inu never liked any sort of threat to what belong to them. He also knew that there was a large chance he was worrying over nothing, but as his father had once told him.

One did not make an effective leader if one could not observe all the angles.

Having forgotten about such an inconvenient law was annoying, but what was even more annoying was when he was told by his justices that he could not simply abolish that law, as it would look as if he were attempting to protect persons who were unworthy of their positions, solely because of personal feelings. After all shouldn’t the best and brightest hold such offices. In theory yes…in practice no. It was infuriating to be told that some believed that he could not have his court the way he desired it. More importantly it would be viewed as disrespectful in the eye’s of the elders, to think that he knew better then one of his founding ancestor’s. The pompous old fools always took that stance when someone younger attempted to do anything.

Best to wait till the next judicial review his justices had said. Then he could remove it quietly without spectacle, after all only a person willing to read literally hundreds of books would realize it was gone, and such an act would take decades, after all such a person had obtain his approval to conduct such research, and he certainly did not have to hand the correct collection of text until they had read each and every one.

So he had simply amended it, the law now read that such duals could only occur with his explicit permission and under his supervision. He had justified this to the few questioning elder’s by stating that he could not risk losing key member’s of his court, especially not in times of crises where spies and traitors could be anywhere, to simply anyone lucky enough to win a fight. Trust and reliability beat out raw strength. Not only had he not been questioned, but he had actually been praised for his forethought. Of course they agreed…they always agreed when it was something that might save their own necks. Now he understood why his father had hated having to stand in front of the council of elders so very much, any change, no matter how small, if it was different then what they were used to, or -how it was done in their day- they panicked. It was as if they were determined to fight the very flow of time and change, because to hear them talk, the values they held close, indeed the very blocks of the foundation of existence were under constant attack. It was beyond ridiculous, and Sesshomaru was reminded of the many times throughout the history of the western lands that things that everyone knew were wrong, ineffectual, or otherwise worthless, the elders had fought tooth and claw to keep in place. It would seem that any change to any part of life was simply unbelievable to them, the words it’s always been that way sprang into Sesshomaru’s mind, because he had certainly heard that enough times since his ascension as Lord.

Fortunately their power was solely political, and if push came to shove, Sesshomaru felt he had very little to worry about, and as far as he was concerned if the elder’s ever lost favor with the people, something they spent nearly everyday trying to prevent, then Sesshomaru would do away with their office altogether.

Cracking his neck Sesshomaru brought himself out of his musings. “Perhaps you have heard of the ruckus we had in the northern hall a short while ago?” Sesshomaru asked. Imalia stiffened, technically the responsibility of such offenses fell directly upon her head.

“Yes I have.” She answered.

“I think it goes without saying that I was most displeased. However I realize that little of the blame rests upon you.” Sesshomaru continued. Garith was now captain of the guard, and his presence, not Imalia’s told Sesshomaru exactly who had ordered the guards to gather. Imalia gave him a look that clearly asked why she was there. “I have a few questions for you.” Sesshomaru said.

“I will answer to the best of my ability sir.” Imalia replied.

“First what do you know of Garan?” Sesshomaru asked.

“Garan?” Imalia muttered. “You mean Garith’s son?” Sesshomaru nodded. Imalia wrinkled her nose in disgust.

“Snobbish, conceited, disrespectful. He has an over inflated ego and little to back it up. He seemingly refuses to accept that anyone knows anything that he does not, I have never seen such refusal to learn in all my life. I think he even frustrates his father at times.” Imalia answered.

“And his combat skills?” Sesshomaru inquired, if the boy had merit Sesshomaru would not keep him in the kitchen longer then needed.

“Sub-par in my opinion. He favor’s the battle axe but he’s not particularly skilled in any one area.” Imalia responded.

“Then just how did he raise to such rank? First class does not come easily.” Sesshomaru stated. Fearing he already knew the answer to the unspoken question.

“Well I believe you can thank his father for that.” Imalia replied. He thought as much, although he wasn’t sure how much he could blame Garith. He knew from experience with his own father that parents would do anything for their children. Still…Sesshomaru did not believe of awarding anything that was not earned, after all his father could have very well of place him in the very same position Garith once held.

“Hmmm, well perhaps it is not a great loss then.” Sesshomaru mused.

“What do you mean?” Imalia asked.

“Garan is now on kitchen duty. I also demoted him, first class to sixth.” Sesshomaru informed. The first burst of snorting laughter that forced its way out of Imalia before she was able to stop it was not exactly dignified but it did give Sesshomaru greater insight into her thoughts on the matter.

“That….well he won’t like that.” Imalia said.

“That would be the whole point, or am I to assume that you disagree with my judgment on the matter?” Sesshomaru asked. Imalia shook her head.

“Oh no, but I hope you don’t expect him to excel at his new duties, and I certainly would not have him have any part of important dinners. He is quite spiteful from what I’ve seen and would undoubtedly cause problems.” Imalia responded.

“Then he shall be punished now won’t he?” Sesshomaru stated more then asked.

“Very good sir.” Imalia said, a bit of a grin on her face.

“Now then, I would also like to know what you can tell me about a guard named Atrius?” Sesshomaru continued. He was curious about the kitsune and although he knew that Inuyasha could take care of himself, the assistance the fox had lent had pleased him. If not for Atrius Inuyasha would have very well ended up with an axe buried in his shoulder, which would have not doubt have led Inuyasha to splatter Garan all over the hallway, which would have probably taken weeks to properly clean. Sesshomaru always made it a point to reward those who had pleased him, even if it was a small thing, he had found that letting his servants know that he appreciated their effort’s tended to boost morale greatly. “Take care of those who serve you. Being recognized for your actions often makes one strive to do an even better job.” His father had once told him.

“Atrius….the blond kitsune? Why do you ask about him?” Imalia asked.

“Do I need a reason?” Sesshomaru shot back. Yet another reason he felt he might need to replace his new general. She was constantly questioning him.

“N-no…I suppose not.” Imalia muttered. She actually sounded more annoyed then anything. “He’s what some might call lowborn, I believe he entered into training shortly after the Kibla village poaching incident. I think his was one of the families you ended up saving.” Sesshomaru nodded, he remember that little excursion well. When reports of his subjects being killed and skinned had reached his ears….well he had not been happy to say the least. Gathering a contingent of his soldier’s he had ventured out to personally see to it that then offenders were adequately punished, had they given themselves up they would have only had to endure imprisonment and a few hundred hours of capital punishment. Instead they had decided to resist, and he had been forced to promptly execute them. Shame really*

Now that he thought about it he almost remembered seeing a much younger Atrius there. Perhaps it was….well at least he now understood why the kitsune was in his service. Sesshomaru had little tolerance for such acts, and shamefully he had rather enjoyed ending the lives of such filth.

“I know he did rather well for himself in the academy, quite the swordsman in the practice ring. Use’s a more traditional style, but he tends to use the reverse hand, which can be somewhat confusing to those not used to encountering such a fighter. He is something of a trickster not surprisingly, and I know he’s pulled a few good ones on his fellow guards. From what I know he is an honest, trustworthy person who works hard, though he is rather innocent. Incidentally I know that he and Garan do not get along.” Imalia reported.

“Oh?” Sesshomaru responded. Well that was interesting…

“Indeed, I know that they clashed greatly during their training, though to call them rivals would be doing Atrius an injustice, from what I hear Garan has never been able to defeat him. Their encounters are often extremely heated, and I have taken to keeping them on opposite sides of the castle as much as I can. Though Garith tends to move Garan around as he pleases.” Imalia said. Sesshomaru rubbed his jaw lightly, such things were rather common, stick a noble in with pauper and sparks tended to fly.

“I am thinking of granting Atrius a promotion.” Sesshomaru said.

“Oh? From third class? Might I ask why?” Imalia asked.
“To put it simply he followed my orders when other’s did not and he prevented harm from befalling my younger brother.” Sesshomaru answered.

“Your brother sir?….I wasn’t aware….” Imalia started before Sesshomaru raised his hand to quiet her.

“Inuyasha is his name, he is technically my half brother, the son of my father and a human woman.” Sesshomaru said.

“A hanyo then? That must have caused quite a stir.” Imalia mused.

“You have no idea. Garan attempted to harm him when we first arrived, despite my orders to stand down, hence his punishment. More to the point I currently have Atrius escorting my brother to the dinning hall, I intend for him to guard Inuyasha.” Sesshomaru stated.

“Attack him?! That stupid fool…” Imalia muttered. “That could very well be considered treason.”

“I’m quite aware of that. But what was done is done. Now then, I would like you to join Inuyasha and Atrius in the dinning hall. I want you to inform Atrius of his guard duties and for you to join him.” Sesshomaru ordered.

“Me my Lord? Surly my time would be better used elsewhere.” Imalia retorted.

“Perhaps, but this is my wish. While you are there I want you to observe Atrius and then report back to me on his performance.” Sesshomaru added.

“So you want me to be a bodyguard now? If I may be blunt….I find this assignment rather disrespectful.” Imalia spat. Sesshomaru resisted the urge to growl, why was everyone arguing with him all of a sudden?

“You will do as you are told. My brother is a high priority. But if I have to be extremely direct I will. Inuyasha has an extremely short temper and does not always think before he does something. Although I expect you to protect him, you will more then likely be protecting others from him.” Sesshomaru said. “He is crass and vulgar, but I expect you to be respectful do you understand?”

“I am not a babysitter.” Imalia replied. Sesshomaru’s temper finally broke though and he shot up out of his seat.

“What you are is unwelcome, and I will not tolerate such disobedience!” Sesshomaru snapped. Imalia’s jaw tightened.

“I have heard reports of Lady Nefrume’s death, why am I not being briefed on that? I know very well what it may lead to, I am better of preparing for our defense if need be.” Imalia retorted.

“That will be taken care of. You have your orders.” Sesshomaru said. Imalia growled, her green eye’s flashing with anger.

“I am your general, why do you keep so much from me? I earned this position. I have fought thousands of battles in countless wars; I am more then up to the task.” Imalia spat.

“I do not know you. Do not expect my trust to come easily. I am not pleased with this situation.” Sesshomaru replied coolly.

“So you would rather have that bigot Garith leading your army?” Imalia snarled.

“Correction. I lead my own army into battle.” Sesshomaru stated.

“What?” Imalia muttered.

“Did you think I would simply hide in the castle while my soldiers fight and die?” Sesshomaru asked.

“Everyone I’ve ever worked for has.” Imalia informed. A feral grin grew on Sesshomaru’s face.

“I am not everyone else. This Sesshomaru fights for his lands, his people, like his father before him and his father before him. That is another reason I do not trust you, a great mercenary leader you may have been, but I can have no loyalty to those who have none to themselves.” Sesshomaru said with pride. He didn’t care about angering her, didn’t care if she knew of his feelings about her.

“I had no loyalty to anyone because no one had any to me.” Imalia replied.

“Perhaps, but you ask why I give you such duties and I answer, and what do you do? Defy me…do you expect to earn anything with disrespect and rebellion?” Sesshomaru growled. “I give you a simple task, and for your information my brother Inuyasha just so happens to be the single most important thing on my mind right now, and take this to heart, if you try and harm him, I will kill you.” Imalia took a step back, confusion and wariness filling her eyes.

“Why do you threaten me? I have given you no reason not to trust me.” Imalia asked.

“You also have not given me any reason to trust you. I am not sure why you came into my lands, nor why you wished to enter my service. It was a outdated and poorly thought out law that allowed you into such a position, but do not think that simply because you proved to be the better fighter that I will welcome you as I would a trusted friend who I have known since I was a pup.” Sesshomaru barked. Suddenly Imalia dropped her eyes and sighed.

“I am sorry milord….I do not mean…I am not used to….” Imalia fumbled. “May I speak freely sir?” Maybe it was the sudden openness in her demeanor, or the drastic change in tone but Sesshomaru found himself curious so he answered.

“You may.”

“Ever since I have entered into your service I have been disrespected. The men whisper behind my back, my orders are ignored and no matter what I do no one will take me seriously. I have trained many, yet not one of the one’s trained by Garith will taken any lesson I try to give them seriously. I am openly mocked and you do nothing. And now you give me such an assignment, and everyone will laugh. I do not mind the duty, and I can understand the reasons you give it to me. But I am trying to build respect, and having to watch over a foul tempered hanyo will not gain me that.” Imalia explained.

“Garith inspired great loyalty in his students; I would not think it would be easy to sway them. I am sorry that you are having problems, but if I step in it will only make you look weaker. And you are wrong about watching Inuyasha, I have no doubt that more then one guard will provoke his wrath, and should this happen….well you’d be surprised what saving one’s life will do.” Sesshomaru replied.

“Is he that dangerous?” Imalia asked, sounding honestly intrigued.

“Very, his style is more brawler then anything, but the raw power Inuyasha puts behind his attacks is not to be taken lightly. He possesses an indomitable sprit and an extremely sharp tongue. He also wields Tessaiga, which in itself makes him a force to be reckoned with.” Sesshomaru explained, no harm in telling her, it wouldn’t do for her not to know what she was walking into, and he really did not want Inuyasha unleashing the Wind Scar within their home.

“Tess…saiga?” Imalia muttered.

“Tessaiga, the sword originally crafted for my father, which now belongs to Inuyasha. Tessaiga, the sword which can kill one hundred demons in a single stroke. Inuyasha’s iron-crushing fang. Word from the wise, if he decided to use it….do not be in its path.” Sesshomaru quipped, remembering his own unpleasant encounter with the Wind Scar, the only time in his entire life were he actually thought he was about to die. “Now then, I expect you to do as I’ve asked, perhaps you do not understand, but until I am sure that you are not some sort of spy sent to infiltrate my house, which you’ve already done, I am not likely to put much trust in you. But if you would like some advice, I would suggest focusing more on the new recruits and less on one’s already established. That will be all.” Sesshomaru said before sitting back into his chair. Imalia nodded before exiting the room, closing the door behind her.

Reaching over Sesshomaru caught a hold of the small door in the wall to his right, opening it up he looked at the several colored ropes within it. A rather ingenious invention, he wasn’t sure which of his ancestor’s came up with the idea, but he knew he was grateful for it. A simple tug would sound a bell within the appropriate room, a perfect way to summon someone without having to have anyone hunt them down. Sesshomaru smiled as he took a hold of the yellow, green, red, blue and purple candy striped one and gave it a firm tug. Leave it to Daigon to choose something other then a single simple color. Leaning back in his chair Sesshomaru rubbed at his the bridge of his nose as he waited for his healer to arrive.

They had much to discuss.

“I just wanna cuddle with Inuyasha…” His Youki whined.

Sesshomaru sighed.

“Please shut up….”


Ok, I’m oh so sorry for the long wait everyone! Drama has been occurring.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving, I know I did, once the holiday got there that is.

You see I work in retail, a meat department to be exact. So I had to deal with thousands of pounds of turkeys, and even more rude, nasty customers. All of which made me very very tired and sore. Not to mention leaving me with a nasty case of writers block.

Thank you everyone for your kindness and well wishes, you might be happy to know that my Dad is doing much better.
This chapter was going to be much longer, but I really wanted to get in update it. I know not that much happened again, but I wanted to take the time to introduce some more of the characters that will be featured within this story. Oh and just so you know Inuyasha’s group is not out of the story just yet, so no worries, Miroku, Sango and Kagome fans! Also I have been having some computer problems lately, so I wanted to make sure you guys got a new chapter just in case.

Originally I wasn’t going to explain so much in this chapter, but the moment I basically wrote “Imalia beat Garith so she has his job now” I thought to myself “Well I have to explain it!” So I ended up getting a little political there, but that is something I wanted to show. We have seen Sesshomaru fight, seduce and so on an so forth. But you never really seem to see him rule, and I wanted to give a little taste of that.

I have at least one more character planed to make an entrance, but I need to iron him out a little more.

Atrius= A-TREE-US
Imalia= IM-MALL-YA


*Some patented Sesshomaru sarcasm here.


Nikkie23534: Always nice to hear from you, glad you enjoyed it

PirateCaptainBo: I’m not much of a Koga fan, but I do have some plans for him. Maybe I’ll surprise you

Princess Sin: Eh I worry about things like that, its how I am. Kagome is still something of a child, and I do find her to be unreasonable at times. Koga is going to make his move soon enough, if he doesn’t get himself killed first, and Miroku still thinks about Sango, its just that I would rather focus on Inu and Sess, and when I start trying to write a large group of people all doing stuff at once, I have a hard time.

Twistedhilarity: I really didn’t have much of a direction in that chapter, but I’m glad you enjoyed it all the same. I try to keep things funny, I like a little humor in my writings, and for some reason it seems easier to get a laugh with Sesshomaru then Inuyasha. Weird no? My dad is healing up well it seems, thanks for the concern.

LadySess: A lot of the things Inuyasha wants; only Sesshomaru can give to him. Deep down Inuyasha wants Sesshomaru to accept him, but after so much has happened, he really won’t believe him. Sesshomaru has to do more then treat Inuyasha well; he has to…oh un jade him if you will.

wolfluv: No, no wheelchair thank God. I really like the interactions between Sesshomaru and Inuyasha and I hope to have more of them, alone, soon.

Ethereal Siren: I like little moments of laughter. I tend to write as if it’s all in the characters head even if they are not thinking….if that makes sense. I find that when I’m doing something, every so often a one-liner will just echo in my brain. The whole thing with the picture was mostly for laughs but the idea came from a picture I saw of Sesshomaru and Inuyasha sleeping done by a person named Zyephen. I thought to myself “Now if someone stumbled on to two people who look like they do sleeping like that…what would they do?”

Xzylne: I have no set number of chapters in mind, but I think it’s going to be a long one. I have no intention of doing an Inu/Kag lemon in this story; I mean for one it just wouldn’t fit the story. As for the pairings well it is Inu/Sess and Miroku/???? At the moment. But inu/sess will be the main pairing.

AKB: Thank you, I’m not in any real rush to hurry the story along. I think that, that is a mistake, I think people are more patient then most give them credit for, and when you rush things, you miss out on a lot of nice moments.

hyperactive pup: Well I pushed myself to get this done on the 30th but as it’s after midnight I guess I failed. Lol. Thanks for the concern though, it means a lot to me.

ladytokyo: I like to slowly build things, but the inu bonding has begun if only slightly. I intend to do a lot more explaining next chapter, so stay tuned. They can’t hear each other’s thoughts but they are catching bits and pieces of each others body language, which now that they are being around each other for something other then bloodshed, is starting to teach them about each other, whether then realize that or not. The talk is coming, but there is a lot that has to happen before that. And yes Naraku will be shown in this story; he will be a part of something kinda big and nasty so get ready for that.

gen50: I put up a stopper this time, so I hope that keeps it from being to confusing. I know not much happened last chapter…or this chapter really, well I didn’t introduce a lot of people, that counts right? Lol

wbk: Sometimes I wonder if I over develop people; I know I tend to go off on long tangents from time to time. I try to keep the characters in the kind of character that everyone knows as opposed to doing something wildly different, but at the same time I like to play around with them. Actually I have the event that will win Inuyasha over in my mind, but it’s a secret! Muwahahahahaha!

C-LOKE: For some reason your name reminds me of my Loki Devyi character, and as for continuing…well I just did! XD.

Thanks for reading everyone, every message I get makes me smile. I’m so happy to have readers as kind as all of you.













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