InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Peace Treaty ❯ Arrival ( Chapter 9 )

They traveled the majority of the next day, stopping little and speaking less. Sesshoumaru was happy to be back in the Western Lands and looked forward to returning to the stronghold. Kagome's temper over the events of the evening before had not abated. If anything another night on hard ground and continued walking on already sore feet only blackened her mood further. She poured through in her mind ways she could trick him into removing the subjugation beads, but could not come up with an idea for which he would actually fall. So instead she entertained herself by dreaming up revenge scenarios. Too bad Sesshoumaru naked, wearing a dog collar, chained to a wall, forced to massage her lowly, aching, Ningen feet and calves was as likely to happen as him being persuaded to free her voluntarily.

It was late afternoon when they reached the stronghold, autumn sun low in the sky. Kagome thought from far away the place was large and impressive, closer up it was immense and magnificent. It was situated on top of a large rocky hill, and the encircling stone wall made it appear to be part of the landscape itself. The wall was tall, with lookout towers and guards standing sentry along the top.

“Lord Sesshoumaru!” someone shouted. Huge doors parted slowly, and they entered. Kagome saw Youkai everywhere, hauling water, lighting torches, stabling horses. They stopped and bowed. There were barracks and smithies, all well kept. They went deeper into the compound and passed through a gate in a smaller, inner wall. Inside this enclosure the buildings were larger, grander, and there was more space, thick trees, and the streets were made of stone. Many Youkai came out of their homes, all bowing and staring at Kagome.

“These are the residences of some officers and their families,” Sesshoumaru said. “The highest ranking ones, along with my father's advisors live next to or in the manor house.” They entered a huge courtyard. The homes here were even nicer, many with private gardens. Then Kagome saw the manor house. It was enormous, multistoried, with graceful, curving roofs, balconies, and dotted with windows. Kagome was not sure what to expect, but she certainly had no idea her new home would be so beautiful.

They climbed stone steps to the main entry, which was flanked by huge bronze statues of fierce-looking lion dogs. “The family parks and gardens are behind the manor. You will be shown around tomorrow when it is more light. Right now I'm sure you'd rather bathe and eat.”

Kagome nodded. The word bathe was instantly comforting. “Yes, please.”

Several Youkai came up to them, bowing. “Lord Sesshoumaru, welcome back,” one of them said. “Your return was not expected for a few days. Are General Inutaisho and Lady Seiobo not with you?”

“Lord Sato, it is good to be back. My parents are still traveling. We decided it was prudent to return as quickly as possible, so I separated. This is Lady Kagome.” The Youkai bowed. “Kagome, Lord Sato, Lord Miyake, Commander Nakamura, Lady Higa. They are some of my father's advisors.” Kagome bowed and, noticing the Youkai stared at her, realized she was wearing blood-stained clothes.

“Lord Sesshoumaru! I'd heard you're back.”

A young Youkai couple approached, smiling. The male was handsome, tall, and black-haired. The female had red hair and was carrying a bundle. “Kagome, this is Commander Kouga Garou, my second-in-command, and his mate Ayame.”

“Lady Kagome,” they said politely.

“How's the pup?” Sesshoumaru asked.

Kouga beamed. “Great! He gets bigger each day he eats so much.”

“Easy for you to say,” Ayame said with a small smile.

“Ayame, you will please get my mother's maid.”

Lord Sato cleared his throat. “Lord Sesshoumaru, I know you've only just returned, but we need to speak soon, privately. There's been some disturbing news of Okuri of late.”

“Certainly. I'll meet you in the Advisor's Hall in an hour.”

A young female Youkai with shocking orange hair approached, bowing low. “Lord Sesshoumaru.”

“Hannya, this is Lady Kagome. You will take her to the baths and get her something suitable to wear. Then escort her to my rooms. Kagome, this is my mother's maid, Hannya. She will see to your immediate needs.”

Kagome followed Hannya, who seemed nervous, through a maze of hallways to a large bathhouse. The changing area was populated by several Youkai females, who stilled their conversation and gawked at Kagome when she entered. They quickly left. Kagome felt terribly alone.

The bathing area, a natural hot spring lit by lamps and torches, was beautiful. Steam rose from the water into the cool evening air. Ornamental trees and shrubs lined the edges, and she imagined that in the spring and summer, when there was foliage, it would be lovely. She relaxed in the hot water and felt the tension of the past several days slowly melt away. Her sense of calm, however, was overshadowed by the knowledge that she would be with Sesshoumaru alone soon. On the road they hardly spoke, and given her anger she was fine with that arrangement. She feared the confrontation that she knew loomed ahead. She could have stayed in the water forever, but Hannya was waiting and probably had other duties she had put on hold.

The bath linens were luxurious, soft and scented with jasmine. She donned a fresh, clean kimono, and Hannya, hands shaking, helped her comb her hair. Kagome thought as Lady Seiobo's maid, this Youkai could be an important ally to make and sought to put her at ease. “Hannya, thank you so much for your assistance. I'm sure with all the traveling I've done lately, my hair must be in quite a state.”

“It's...not so bad. I'm afraid I'm pulling.”

“Don't worry. My scalp can take it. Are you Inuyoukai? You look a little different from many of the others here.”

“Kitsune Youkai,” she said softly. “Is it true then? There will be peace?”

“That's what I've been told. Does your family live in the manor house?”

“No. I'm a war orphan. My family was killed by Ningen many years ago.”

Kagome suddenly realized that these Youkai probably regarded her as Ningen did Youkai-with fear and as killers. “I'm sorry. I lost my family because of the war as well. I hope the peace can last.”

“Your hair is finished. I'll show you to Lord Sesshoumaru's wing of the house.”

Kagome was led through more corridors, stairways, doors, and courtyards. She had a feeling the place was bigger even than she initially thought and she'd be getting lost frequently. She was shown into a small but comfortable dining room, with several plates of food on the low table. Kagome realized she hadn't eaten since morning and her hunger overtook her curiosity and trepidation.

“I'll tell the seamstress to come in a little while, and someone from the kitchen will collect the plates.”

“Thank you, Hannya.” Kagome found her meal wonderful, though prepared in an unfamiliar way. After she finished, she wandered into an adjoining room. It appeared to be Sesshoumaru's private study. There was a neat desk with writing materials and shelves of books and scrolls lining the walls. Behind the desk was a door leading out to a balcony. She went through and looked out. It was dark outside, but the light from the manor faintly illuminated the grounds below. She could just make out a garden with what had to be a bridge spanning part of a pond.

“Excuse me, Lady Kagome,” said a polite voice.

Kagome turned and saw a female Youkai holding a box. She went back into the study. “Hello. You must be the seamstress.”

“Yes, my Lady. My name is Mariko. I was told you were in need of clothing. I'll take your measurements and get started right away.” Mariko worked quickly, measuring and making notations. “You'll need kimono, undergarments, sleeping robes, a few heavy things-it is getting cold. You'll need shoes as well.”

“Thank you, Mariko. Could you please keep my clothing somewhat simple? I know my position is as a Lady, but I'm not used to fancy things, and, especially everyday wear, I would prefer more practicality. Also I require several short-sleeved and sleeveless jackets and some loose pants ending just below the knee. And please make them lightweight and easy to move in.”

Mariko looked somewhat surprised at the last request, but agreed, and Kagome excused her.

Kagome explored a little more. There was a room with a huge table and row after row of stacked, rolled-up maps. She found a sitting room, furnishings simple, yet comfortable looking. The next room was Sesshoumaru's bedroom. She entered and saw several chests of varying sizes, a table, two chairs, a large window, and another balcony. And a bed.

She wondered if she would be expected to sleep there. With him. They were married after all. She would have to do things married women do. Suddenly memories, long buried, flooded her mind. Drunk, leering faces. Rough, clenching hands. She had to sit down to steady her breathing. Kagome knew Sesshoumaru was capable of courtesy. Would he be kind or cruel? She closed her eyes and prayed for kindness.

XXXXX

Sesshoumaru walked toward the Advisor's Hall dreading the upcoming meeting. His good humor at returning home had soured quickly. First, while he ate, he conferred with Kouga about the state of his troops and their patrols. They had caught a man suspected of spying for his cousin, but, after leading them on a chase that cost two soldiers their lives, the spy escaped. Then his father's seneschal, who normally would have gone to Seiobo, came to him with reports of several missing valuables, a dried-up well, and a tipped oil lamp, which resulted in a small fire and six burned servants.

“Unfortunately, that may not have been just a tipped lamp,” Kouga told Sesshoumaru quietly. “The fire destroyed some recently intercepted communications concerning Okuri's ambitions.”

Sesshoumaru shook his head slowly, wondering if any of the servants harbored secret sympathies toward Okuri's position. His father was well-respected, but Sesshoumaru knew the fact that his new mate was Ningen sat ill with many, War's End or not. He wished for the hundreth time that his father had killed his cousin when he had the chance.

All seven of his father's advisors, four males and three females, were waiting. After obligatory greetings, congratulations, and questions, the subject of Okuri was broached by Lord Sato.

“He's certainly got ambition to spare. He is coming in a few days to pay a visit, ostensibly to meet your new mate. We know he still desires a union between you and his daughter. Lord Sesshoumaru, I realize you have had no time for courtship, but we feel it vital you mate and mark Lady Kagome immediately. If, when Okuri is here, she is yet unmarked, we feel sure he may try something. The very least would be to try to persuade you to set her aside. But we don't believe he is above violence. Lady Kagome should have an armed escort at all times. It will certainly infuriate the other three Houses if the peace treaty is violated so quickly, and, though we hate to imagine it, some may switch to support your cousin's claim.”

Sesshoumaru sighed heavily. He knew Lord Sato was correct in his interpretation of his cousin's intentions, however he loathed the idea of being dictated to regarding his personal life. The miko was complex, and he would have preferred to take his time with her, suspecting gentle courtship would lead to her willing submission, but he knew Sato was right. “Jaken,” he said, reaching for an ink pot, brush, and a scrap of parchment.

The toad Youkai appeared from the shadows; he always seemed to be lurking about. “Yes, Lord Sesshoumaru.”

“Go light a brazier in my room and give this to the Lady Kagome.”

“Right away, Lord Sesshoumaru.”

He turned back to the advisors. “Is there anything else?”

Lady Inoue, to whom the spies reported, said, “One of the operatives working on gaining information of the Ningen weapon was compromised. Ningen didn't learn anything of import, but we have few who can work undercover in human territory. The loss of her skills is not good news.”

Sesshoumaru excused himself and left the hall. He wondered if his homecoming could get any worse. At least he wouldn't have a weepy virgin to mollify. In fact if Kagome could simply show him proper respect, he was sure they could entertain each other in bed quite nicely. She had a fiery personality, and, when in his arms while traveling, he could tell her body would please him. He hoped she passed his test.

XXXXX

Kagome stared at the strange creature lighting the brazier. He showed deference when he entered, bowing as he introduced himself as Jaken, Lord Sesshoumaru's personal servant, addressed her as Lady, and presented her with a piece of paper. Now he was muttering under his breath about stupid, unworthy Ningen as if she were deaf or spoke a different language. What an oddity, she thought.

Once he left, Kagome read the note. Get undressed and get in bed. She turned it over. Nothing else. So much for kindness, Kagome thought, and she felt the hot sting of tears filling her eyes. She blinked them back angrily. No. I refuse. I do not cry. I fight. Torturous memories were forcefully reinterred. She looked out the window and saw, low in the autumn night sky, the three stars that made up the belt of the Miko Constellation. Grant me strength, she entreated. It is better to fight and lose than to simply give up. I will not give up.

Kagome heard a door open and close and heavy footsteps nearing. Her heart sped up.

 

Sesshoumaru saw Kagome standing in front of the window, fully clothed. “Miko, did you not receive my note?”

“I did.”

“And are you illiterate?”

She turned to face him. “Actually I read quite well.”

“Why is it that simple obedience is so difficult for you? As the mate of an Inuyoukai, you must show me submission.” Sesshoumaru felt the firm grip on his temper slipping. He took off his sword belt and began to undo the straps of his armor.

“I believe I already told you, I am neither Youkai nor yours to command.”

Sesshoumaru growled, low and threatening. “Come here.”

“No.”

He threw his armor in the corner. In an instant he was across the room, in front of her. “Get undressed.”

“No.”

“Girl, show me respect. Now.”

Kagome had an expression of such pure hatred it would have been comical, were it directed at any one but him. She slowly, deliberately turned her back to him and crossed her arms.

Sesshoumaru took hold of her shoulder roughly and spun her around to face him once more. “Miko, I cannot abide this continued defiance. I will say it one last time. Take off your clothes.”

“NO! I'll NOT be an accomplice to my own rape.”

“ENOUGH!” He grabbed her by the throat and slammed her into the wall behind. He raised his hand to strike her, but staid it when he saw the look on her face. It was one of triumph. Did she want him to hit her? How can one force submission on someone who longs to be beaten? “Don't you realize I can kill you?”

“Then DO IT! KILL ME!” she screamed.

The vivid blue eyes were filled with a wild, fearlessness Sesshoumaru had never seen before. Certainly not the look he would expect from someone facing death. His grip on her throat loosened. “No, I'll not be an accomplice to your suicide.” He could not account for her reaction. Knowing she wasn't a virgin, he had assumed she'd merely had a lover. Clearly there was something else. What had happened to her in the past? His instinct to protect her flared, and he was ashamed to have treated her so. “Kagome,” he said softly, “I will not force you. It is dishonorable to assault one's mate. Of course usually one's mate knows her place and proper behavior.”

“I'm not a Youkai!”

“Calm down,” he said gently. “I'm very well aware of that right now.” He was fast developing a headache. “Let's just go to bed. I think we could both use a good night's sleep.”

“Where am I to sleep?”

“The bed is big enough for two. There is the floor, but I thought you'd be looking forward to something more comfortable than the ground.” Kagome stiffened. “I meant what I said. I won't force you. I will wait for you to come to me. When you're ready. Just remember, the peace treaty is not valid until you are marked. Don't make me wait too long.” He walked over to the bed and began to undress.

Kagome took a deep breath, feeling like she had dodged a blow. She was confused by his sudden sympathy and patience, but knew he was not being deceitful. He was nothing of the monster she had built up in her mind.

She watched as he undressed. He put out the lone oil lamp on the table and tied his hair back. He sat to remove his boots, then stood to untie his belt and sash. In the year before she entered the Miko Sisterhood, she had seen much nudity, male and female. Her brother's friends, however, were all scrawny and malnourished, some with skin tinged yellow from alcohol abuse, all with ugly scars and pock marks.

She did not know men could look like Sesshoumaru. His haori slid down his arms, revealing an expanse of pale skin, made luminescent by the moonlight coming through the window. It was almost as if he were lit from within. His shoulders were broad and muscular. In fact everything about his frame indicated tightly coiled virility and power. She knew from being held in his arms that he was strong. She had felt, and now she saw. His upper arms were large, but not out of proportion to his shoulders and torso. Even his forearms were thick with muscle.

He bent to pick up his boots, and his bound hair fell over his shoulder. When he straightened she saw his whole back. His spine was a deep grey shadow against his pale skin. The lines of his rib cage tapered boldly to narrow hips, and she saw hints of those reddish stripes peeking out from the top of his pants, which rode low on his waist. He turned. His chest was powerfully developed, and each muscle in his abdomen was distinct. His skin was flawless, perfect, as though he had been carved from granite. He began to undo the ties that held up his pants, and she flushed, turned away.

She wondered, what is this feeling? She had never felt sexual desire for a man. Was this it? Or was it only the appreciation of physical beauty? A few minutes ago she railed at the thought of his body touching hers. She sidestepped being raped and beaten, though both were anticipated. Now, confusion. She was unable to reconcile her previous feelings and her current ones. Tiredness crashed down upon her. She heard the sounds of blankets and sheets; Sesshoumaru was getting into bed. She removed her shoes with trembling hands and took off her belted pack, placing it on the floor next to her shoes. She picked it back up and withdrew her knife. Kagome got into bed, putting her knife under her pillow, lying as close as she could to the edge and not fall out.