InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Torn ❯ Negotiations ( Chapter 18 )

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

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Chapter 18

Negotiations

(Many thanks go to Periwinkle. Her expertise brought this chapter together into something cohesive, filling in all the blank spaces that left room for confusion and helping me to rework sentences that sorely needed it. Her grammar skills are not to be underestimated. I took her advice in most things, but not all. If something is off, it’s probably my fault. Thanks for waiting. I’m already working on the last chapter. I apologize to my reviewers for the lack of responses, but getting chapters out drains my energy until I’ve none left for responses. Please forgive me.)

“’Submit’, my ass,” Kouga whispered to himself.

Kouga may have given up his designs on Inuyasha; however, he was the leader of the wolf tribe and would never submit to anyone, least of all that pompous ass of a dog lord. And just because he was no longer going to interfere in Inuyasha’s relationship with Sesshoumaru, that didn’t mean that he wasn’t going to still look out for Inuyasha’s best interests. The dog would just have to live with that.

~*~

Inuyasha hopped to the branch where he had left Shippou sleeping. The kit was still wrapped snugly in Inuyasha’s haori and tied by its sleeves to the branch. Leaving the bundle safely tucked away, Inuyasha floated to the ground and waited.

‘Why had he held back? He could’ve killed Kouga, but he didn’t. Guess he didn’t want to. At least the horny wolf won’t be constantly chasing after me. Man, he is so much trouble sometimes…even if he is my friend. He just pushes and pushes.’

Inuyasha sighed. He had dreaded the possibility that it would come to this; a showdown between Kouga and Sesshoumaru. Watching Kouga get the shit beat out of himself, and worrying that he would have to jump in and save the wimpy wolf, had been nerve-wracking. Well, it was true that Kouga hadn’t run off with his tail between his legs this time, so he really couldn’t say that the wolf was wimpy in this one instance. That was something to see. At least it wasn’t Inuyasha that finally put the wolf in his place.

Despite Kouga’s stubborn streak, he had been a true friend. They had fought side by side, and later, Kouga had saved him from himself. Given that, Kouga had provided him with a second chance to mend his relationship Sesshoumaru. Hell, Kouga had even helped to nurse Sesshoumaru back to health. Inuyasha couldn’t hold any grudges against Kouga. Everyone makes mistakes. He had been torn between honoring all that Kouga had done for him, and at the same time, having to ward off Kouga from causing any more tension between him and Sesshoumaru. It was quite a dilemma. How could he do what had to be done? He couldn’t. Simple as that. And that was why he was in this mess to begin with. He was the one that had been the wimp. It had been his responsibility to straighten Kouga out and he hadn’t. He had been partially at fault for the situation with Kouga. Perhaps the entire blame should be placed on his shoulders.

Sesshoumaru had successfully restrained himself and for that, Inuyasha could say that he was truly grateful. There was simply no explaining why he felt such awe and pride when he had watched his powerful mate show such strength. Sesshoumaru had managed to knock some sense into Kouga while refraining himself from killing the idiot wolf. Considering Sesshoumaru’s temper, it had been an impressive feat.

Inuyasha shook his head and smiled. Sesshoumaru was a magnificent creature. And this Daiyoukai had openly declared that he loved a half-breed. The shock, accompanied by elation, had left Inuyasha gaping and he had almost allowed himself to be seen. Oh, he knew how keen Sesshoumaru’s sense of smell was, or so he thought. Nevertheless, he had believed that Sesshoumaru’s sense of smell would be unable to overcome the smell of Kouga’s blood.

“Yes” played over and over in his mind leaving him almost giddy. For Sesshoumaru to admit that out loud, it had to be true. It had to mean that Sesshoumaru would stand by it, that it was a conscious decision and not just some passing emotion. When Sesshoumaru made a decision, nothing deterred him from his goal. And Sesshoumaru was coming to him, Inuyasha.

Inuyasha plopped down on the grass and leaned back against the trunk of the tree that cradled Shippou. ‘He said that he had already proven that he would die for me. Well, there was that final battle with Naraku. I’m not sure that he meant to do that though.’

Leaning back and folding his hands behind his head, he attempted to remember all of the times that he had battled against or with Sesshoumaru, beginning with the most recent. Well, Sesshoumaru hadn’t attacked him for quite some time before that last battle. Even then, Sesshoumaru had stood back-to-back with him when it really wasn’t necessary, giving Inuyasha’s friends the opportunity to reach him. And, in their battle with Sou’unga, Sesshoumaru could have easily flown over the mass of soldiers and headed straight to the source. However, he had fought along with everyone else and slain many. Also, Sesshoumaru had thrown him aside, taking the full brunt of a blast from that vile sword. There were so many times when Sesshoumaru had had the upper hand and could have easily slain him. Nevertheless, he had always walked away, leaving Inuyasha alive, if barely. Sesshoumaru seemed to know him well enough to gauge the amount of damage that he could do without actually causing death.

‘Maybe Kagome was right,’ Inuyasha thought, fondling the earring she’d given him. ‘Maybe Rin did change him and I just didn’t want to see it. Mysterious, yeah, that’s what you are, Sesshoumaru. At least you’re mine.’

Inuyasha smiled and his eyes lit up at that thought

Inuyasha pursed his lips and furrowed his brow. ‘Do I love him because he’s so powerful? Because he finally accepted me? Maybe it’s because, despite every opportunity, Sesshoumaru proved his own words wrong and actually did protect me. The only one who ever made me feel safe was my mother. Except now, with Sesshoumaru. Even after what he had done, he makes me feel safe. Safe…was that all I ever needed? And…he never did hurt me when we were young, no matter how much I annoyed him. His attention was all that I had wanted. I finally have that now.’

Inuyasha closed his eyes, content with his reasoning. It was good enough for him. He had spent the past few years protecting others - those few who had fought alongside him. It still didn’t change the fact that, in the end, he had been the protector. Finally, after over two hundred years, there was someone strong enough, someone who wouldn’t be a liability during battle, someone who wanted to protect him. And what he gained that wasn’t completely necessary, was a home - a true home - no more living in the trees, sleeping on the ground, constantly wandering alone. He had it all.

He still did. Sesshoumaru was coming for him. Now, if he could just figure out what the hell was wrong with Sesshoumaru. It was obvious that something had set off the taiyoukai’s temper. That question would be answered soon enough. He had no doubt about that. Already, the scent of Kouga’s blood was growing stronger. Inuyasha grabbed a nearby stick and stepped forward, sitting down next to the campfire and poking at the embers just to have something to do while he waited. Sesshoumaru seemed to be taking his time and he was just plain tired of thinking so much. All he needed was his mate.

It was some time before Sesshoumaru appeared at the edge of the trees, his blank expression frustrating Inuyasha to no end. “Do you smell the blood, Inuyasha?”

“Yeah, so?” ‘Well, duh.’

“Remember its strength,” Sesshoumaru instructed before casually strolling around the campfire.

Inuyasha quickly stood, taking a defensive position.

“I mean you no harm,” Sesshoumaru admonished with a scowl as he lifted his hand. “Smell,” he demanded.

Inuyasha stilled as Sesshoumaru’s fingers brushed the tip of his nose.

“I know that you beat the shit out of Kouga. And he always did stink,” Inuyasha huffed. ‘What is he trying to pull?’

“I am very well aware that you observed our battle. My nose is much more sensitive than yours. Now, how much stronger is the smell here than it was while I stood on the other side of your camp?”

Inuyasha wrinkled his nose and swiped away the blood with the sleeve of his shirt. “A helluva lot. Why? What’s your point?”

Above them, one sneaky, emerald eye opened to a slit and spied on the two. ‘Even my sense of smell is better than yours, dog boy,’ Shippou thought, mentally rolling his eyes.

Sesshoumaru sighed and gracefully sat just left of the spot where Inuyasha had been sitting. Moments later, after some consideration, Inuyasha joined him. He hadn’t been certain what to expect. However, this wasn’t it. This was…weird.

Sesshoumaru turned to face Inuyasha. “My sense of smell is much more powerful than yours.” He paused to give Inuyasha time to imagine what that would mean and was amused when Inuyasha’s nose twitched. “You came to me, asking to visit your friends.”

Again, Shippou paused, patiently waiting. A waste of time.

“Yeah, so what? What do Miroku and Sango have to do with your sense of smell?” Inuyasha asked, his thoughts running in a completely different direction from where Sesshoumaru was attempting to take them.

Sesshoumaru nearly growled at the density of Inuyasha’s skull. “One of your friends intentionally rubbed his scent all over you in hopes of angering me, of undermining our relationship.”

Oh, Sesshoumaru had had much time to prepare his approach, one that would not be threatening. He wanted his Inuyasha. If being reasonable beyond his normal bounds was required, he would do his utmost to enter that strange world of Inuyasha’s mind and try to work with what he had. Considering the failure of his previous methods of approaching Inuyasha, this method of compromise was a new and frightening thing.. He did have his pride to consider, and there were some things he simply would not allow. Despite this new tactic, Inuyasha would also need to bend. Some things Sesshoumaru simply could not abide. At this point in the conversation, when the memories assailed him, his patience thinned.

“You are mine! You always were and you always will be!” Sesshoumaru hissed, leaning into Inuyasha’s face. “That smell, mixed with yours and sex…even then, when I was weak, you were mine. No one else will ever have you, Inuyasha,” he quietly added. Closing his eyes at the memory he had just conjured, Sesshoumaru struggled to control the pain.

“I love you,” Sesshoumaru whispered barely audibly, his shoulders slumping.

Wide eyes stared back at him. Inuyasha’s stomach lurched. Did Sesshoumaru really know? How could he? He had been unconscious! “You mean…the hot spring?” Inuyasha asked, his stomach churning. ‘Did he just say what I think he said?’

Sesshoumaru’s declaration of love was suddenly buried beneath Inuyasha’s horror that Sesshoumaru was actually aware of his transgression.

“What else would I be speaking of?” Sesshoumaru responded with a scowl. “The scent never did fully leave the area.”

Inuyasha’s heart sank. He had never meant to hurt Sesshoumaru. Even though no one could have truly claimed him at the time, he knew very well that Sesshoumaru had wanted him. And he had wanted Sesshoumaru so much that it had almost physically hurt.

“I’m sorry, Sess,” Inuyasha mumbled, turning guilty eyes to the ground. He had failed by major proportions. All that time, all that time Sesshoumaru had been hurting and had never said a word.

“Why do you suppose that I never confronted you, Inuyasha?”

“I don’t know,” Inuyasha answered without even thinking.

“The fault was my own.”

“That’s just stupid,” Inuyasha muttered. “I screwed up…played the whore.”

“No…no,” Sesshoumaru murmured, putting his arm around Inuyasha. “I betrayed you and someone was there to…help. I could not blame you for the chain of events set off by my foolishness. However, that does not mean that…your behavior could so easily be dismissed and forgotten.”

Inuyasha twirled a stick around in the ashes at the edge of the fire, not knowing what to say. He was so confused. It was Sesshoumaru’s fault. It was his fault. Whose fault was it really? He didn’t have to let Kouga take him. Sesshoumaru didn’t have to kill him. What turned the ream into a nightmare? Where had things started to go so wrong? Why had they all turned against each other?

Naraku.

‘That damn poison. It wasn’t so different from what Naraku had done before with Sango and Kohaku, and from what he did to me and Kikyou. It’s exactly the same. Bastard,’ Inuyasha thought, brows furrowed in grim disgust.

Inuyasha was certain that Sesshoumaru would not have killed him were it not for the poison. Well, that was long gone. Kouga was put in his place. Everything should be okay. If he and Sesshoumaru could manage to talk, instead of allowing their tempers to overrule their sanity, maybe things would work out fine.

Contrary to popular opinion, he was an observant individual and knew beyond a shadow of a doubt that Rin and Shippou had been running interference, and it truly had been helpful. It was possible that those two could be a calming influence; more than possible, in his opinion. Yes, things were going to be okay.

Inuyasha sank into Sesshoumaru’s embrace then sniffed. “You stink.”

“Well, thank you, Inuyasha. I did not realize this fact.”

Inuyasha first grimaced then turned his gaze up to Sesshoumaru while sporting a wry grin and a cocked eyebrow. “I’m sure you’re enjoying the smell of Kouga’s blood on your claws; doesn’t change the fact that it stinks though.”

Sesshoumaru made a show of pursing his lips, lifting his claws, and studying them. “Hm, I will take your offended senses into consideration.”

Inuyasha gawked as Sesshoumaru carelessly dropped his hand back to its previous position and pretended to stare off into the distance as though he considered the topic of discussion utterly insignificant. Sesshoumaru was teasing him? The Sesshoumaru was displaying humor!? Someone please grab one of Kagome’s movie thingies!

Inuyasha steeled himself when he noticed Sesshoumaru’s playful demeanor grow serious. Was Sesshoumaru still angry with him? Was he not forgiven?

“There is one issue that must be addressed.” Sesshoumaru paused and slightly tilted his head to the side as though listening to voices that Inuyasha could not hear. “What are your plans for Kouga?”

Sesshoumaru turned his face directly at Inuyasha and gave him a pointed stare. It was all too clear that the bonds between Inuyasha and the wolf were unbreakable and knowing that Inuyasha was not in love with Kouga made accepting their relationship easier. Kouga had proven his devotion to Inuyasha’s welfare and he wouldn’t fail to stand by them if needed. There were advantages to be had; a satisfied Inuyasha and a willing ally. As long as Kouga didn’t make a nuisance himself, or step over the solid line that Sesshoumaru had drawn, he would not be forced to kill Kouga; although the thought of doing just that gave him an immense feeling of morbid gratification. He could dream couldn’t he? Maybe kill a few things when the urge bit him in the ass?

“That’s a stupid question. I don’t have any plans.”

“My point exactly. What will you do the next time he walks through the gates of our home?”

Inuyasha really hadn’t given it much thought. Would Kouga really be stupid enough to risk showing up again? ‘Definitely,’ Inuyasha inwardly groaned. “I don’t know. I hadn’t really thought about it.”

“Typical,” Sesshoumaru snorted. “Because of your friendship with him, I will only allow his presence on three conditions. First, and foremost, he must follow proper protocol. Messengers must be sent to request permission for an audience and a particular date of arrival. The length of the visit must be specifically stated. Second, you will honor my decision to decline or accept. Third, my presence on the grounds is required and you both will be chaperoned when out of my range of sight, sound and hearing.”

“Chaperoned? What the hell for!?” Inuyasha exclaimed with a scowl.

“Can you fault me with not trusting the wolf?”

“Keh! No. That’s pretty obvious.”

“Then it is settled,” Sesshoumaru stated flatly.

“Hold on. Not so fast. What gives you the right to say ‘no’ if I want Kouga to visit?” Inuyasha huffed in defiance of being ordered around like a weak bitch.

“I understand your attachment to Kouga. However, you must understand that, for now, I need time, Inuyasha,” Sesshoumaru sighed. “I will not seek to separate you and Kouga...” The skin around Sesshoumaru’s eyes tightened with old pain. “You can be most inconsiderate. I prefer having the right to veto any decision that you might make concerning…that wolf. I insist and will not be moved.”

“You insist?” Inuyasha frowned. So, Sesshoumaru was asserting his authority. Inuyasha wasn’t sure that he liked that very much. Then again, it was he, Inuyasha, who had failed in putting Kouga in his place.

“I will brook no argument on this, Inuyasha,” Sesshoumaru solemnly declared.

‘Wrong thing to say,’ Shippou thought, mentally smacking his forehead.

With the stern quality of Sesshoumaru’s voice and the hard stare in his eyes, it was very obvious that there would be no use arguing. Inuyasha really did like the idea that Kouga couldn’t just show up and chase him around. Constantly fending off Kouga’s advances did get tiresome. And it was uncharacteristically understanding of Sesshoumaru to go so far as to allow Kouga’s presence at all. Regardless, giving Sesshoumaru complete control over it was hard to swallow. He could understand Sesshoumaru’s need to have control concerning Kouga’s presence. On the other hand, what if allowing Sesshoumaru free reign in this matter gave Sesshoumaru the impression that he could run his life?

Only one way to find out. Inuyasha straightened himself and cleared his visage.

“Well, if you have the last word on this, what about other issues? Do you plan on being the sole decision maker in our relationship?” Inuyasha asked, cocking his brow, half expecting Sesshoumaru to entrench himself in the position of the ruler of all things great and small.

Sesshoumaru smirked. The obvious thickness of Inuyasha’s skull was showing through and through. “Mates discuss and debate those things upon which they disagree. I shall do my utmost to see to it that we do not come to an impasse.”

“And if we can’t agree? What then?” Inuyasha asked skeptically.

Of course, Sesshoumaru had all the answers. Why wouldn’t he? “Would outside counsel be sufficient?”

Now that was different. If an outsider was involved, he might feel comfortable enough to allow Sesshoumaru complete control over the entire situation with Kouga. After all, he was almost certain that, though it might be tough to obtain Sesshoumaru’s approval for Kouga to visit, Sesshoumaru wouldn’t completely lock the wolf out. On the plus side, Kouga would respect Sesshoumaru’s decisions much more than his own. Siding with Sesshoumaru on this would have its upside. The thought of standing with Sesshoumaru on any matter gave him a warm, satisfying comfort, the feeling that they truly were a pair. Giving in might not be all that difficult.

However, this ‘counsel’ part of the bargain could be a trick. Sesshoumaru might have someone around that would always side with him and Inuyasha would always end up out in the cold. He wouldn’t have that forming a wedge between them.

“Depends on who it is,” Inuyasha stated, sitting up straight and crossing his arms.

“Is there someone in particular that you would choose?” Sesshoumaru asked, lifting a brow, highly doubting that Inuyasha knew anyone that could play objective advisor.

‘That was a good question.’ Inuyasha knew very few people to begin with. Who could possibly be smart enough to outwit Sesshoumaru, stupid enough to go against the Daiyoukai, and wise enough to have a really good solution? There was only one person that Inuyasha knew who could fill that position. Pervert though he may be, Miroku was one of the wisest men he had ever known. And because they were friends, Miroku wouldn’t lie to make him feel better. He would be truthful; especially with the consequences being that failure to give a viable solution would probably result in something along the lines of meeting Buddha, up close and personal. It helped that Miroku recognized his need to be with Sesshoumaru and had actually advised him to go to Sesshoumaru.

“Miroku. I trust him and he’s really smart,” Inuyasha stated with confidence, even though he knew that Sesshoumaru might laugh in his face.

‘Oh yeah! Smart thinkin’, dog boy,’ Shippou thought with glee. ‘Didn’t know you had it in you. Eh, Sesshoumaru must be rubbin’ off on ya.’

“I am familiar with the monk; however, I do not know him well,” Sesshoumaru stated with some concern.

Inuyasha didn’t give Sesshoumaru the opportunity to argue against it. “He…um…He actually hit me over the head with his staff and told me that I shouldn’t deny you.”

A nice shade of pink bloomed across Inuyasha’s cheeks. He’d just admitted to being crowned on the head by the monk and to ignoring good advice, which reminded him of something else that he had also wanted to ask Miroku about; one of the reasons for the visit, a very good reason. One thing at a time though. Sesshoumaru’s puzzles were already starting to give him a headache.

Sesshoumaru knew that Inuyasha wasn’t rejecting the proposition and that he actually showed some ability to negotiate. The young man held promise.

‘Inuyasha seems willing to accept my terms. Perhaps I should give him the benefit of the doubt and test this monk. Examining the monk is an excellent opportunity to rebuild trust with Inuyasha. A show of respect then. It is the least I can do for my mate.’

“Hm, I will join you on your visit and learn more of this monk.”

“It’s kinda hard to see you getting to know a human,” Inuyasha snorted, hiding his astonishment that Sesshoumaru would even consider something that might be outright disgusting for the youkai lord.

“So, you accept my terms?” asked Sesshoumaru.

‘Come on! Sesshoumaru is right. Give it up, Inuyasha. Just do it!’ Shippou thought with anticipation.

“You promise to give Miroku a fair chance?” Inuyasha asked, not quite convinced that Sesshoumaru would accept a human. A tiny bit of doubt still remained.

“Obviously. I would not waste time and energy examining the monk’s qualifications, nor respect your wishes, were I not to give the monk the opportunity to prove himself worthy,” Sesshoumaru stated with consternation. Did Inuyasha really believe him to be so dishonorable? “Do you accept my proposal, Inuyasha?” Sesshoumaru asked, needing an answer that could not be questionable later.

“I’ll only agree to your terms if you examine and don’t accept him. If you don’t accept him, then I have the right to examine anyone you choose. That’s only fair,” Inuyasha bargained.

“You have my word,” Sesshoumaru smiled.

‘Yes! Oh yeah. Miroku, you’d better do a good job, or else…I’ll burn your wandering hand with my foxfire!’ the little fox squealed inside his head. ‘I can’t wait to tell Rin!’

~*~

“Come on, Sesshoumaru! That’s the eighth question so far. Does he have to answer any more?” Inuyasha exclaimed, tired of Sesshoumaru’s ‘examination’ of his friend.

“It’s alright, Inuyasha.” Miroku grinned at his excitable and trusting friend. “I can understand your mate’s concern. Not only is he entitled to be certain that I can truly be of service to you, in addition I also need to protect myself by knowing what I’m getting myself into. You see, Sesshoumaru’s questions give me insight into his mind and I will better be able to help you should he accept me. At the same time, Sesshoumaru is determining whether or not my problem-solving capabilities are adequate to mediate when you two have a disagreement that you are unable to bridge.”

“Now, as for your hypothetical question, Sesshoumaru,” Miroku continued as they sat on the floor of his modest hut, the three males circling the firepit, Inuyasha scowling on one end, Miroku in-between on the side, keeping a comfortable distance from the lethal youkai at the other end. At least Sesshoumaru was glaring at Inuyasha and not him. “Were I your General, I would accept the agreement with the only stipulation being that negotiations for change could be enacted at a later date. The agreement is favorable and prevents much death and destruction through potential war.”

Sesshoumaru furrowed his brow, realizing that the monk had made a very wise observation.

“And if the enemy broke the truce?” Sesshoumaru asked, continuing his extensive examination.

“I would attempt further negotiations. However, the enemy must not be given the impression of weakness by my eagerness. And I would give little, if any, of what was given in the first negotiation. In fact, it would be best having the other party believing that they had come out of the deal ahead, when in actuality, I had.”

“Yeah, Miroku would be really good at that,” Inuyasha grumbled.

Sesshoumaru liked the idea that the monk understood the value of retaining one’s dignity. However, in a personal relationship there would be no room for deceit, and yet both parties should come out of the issue feeling satisfied that the needs of both had been met.

“You do understand, monk, that the consequences for any attempt to deceive me or my mate would require a very long and painful death?”

Miroku chuckled while staring at him with wide violet eyes. The nervous quiver beneath his voice pleased Sesshoumaru very much.

“I would never think to do such a thing, Lord Sesshoumaru! Though you are a most formidable creature, my goal is to see Inuyasha happy. If you are not happy, then he will not be happy. So, I will do my utmost to see to both of your needs.” Miroku chuckled again, showing a lot of teeth with his much too wide smile.

“Now, monk, back to the negotiation scenario. If you are able to obtain an agreement for re-negotiations, how would you prepare?”

“Repeated requests for negotiations are often a ruse where one party is attempting to set justifiable grounds for a war. There must be no room for surprises. My men would be preparing for battle. In the event that negotiations fail, my people and lands would be as well protected as possible. The number of those placed at the borders would be increased, all tools of war positioned and readied to be called at a moment’s notice. My allies would also be informed and ready to march with me. Nothing would be left to chance. Hopefully, I could display enough force that the enemy would think twice about ever asking for another negotiation; and in the best of scenarios, would drop the original request. Simply by readying my people, the enemy might withdraw any threat that he had intended to make should the second negotiation fail.”

“And if what he wants is reasonable?” Sesshoumaru plodded on.

“I would make certain that he received what he deserved while retaining my dignity and right to make demands of him in future disagreements.”

“And if you should come to an impasse, yet believe that there is a reasonable solution?”

“I would seek outside consultation,” Miroku answered.

“And if you were unable to obtain the cooperation of your enemy?” Sesshoumaru continued to drill.

“No hesitation, no mercy,” Miroku answered, his eyes as hard and fierce as they always had been during the many battles that he and Inuyasha had faced. He well knew the depths of his desire to protect the ones whom he loved.

The monk had proven wise in all of the questions that Sesshoumaru had posed. All of his answers pointed to the fact that the monk would be just. Simultaneously, he would also be firm in his decisions. Yes, the monk would perform his duties well and with honor.

“Very well,” Sesshoumaru stated. Turning to Inuyasha, Sesshoumaru never lost his serious countenance. “He is acceptable.”

Inuyasha gaped like a fish. Sesshoumaru had just accepted a human as an outside advisor!? Either Miroku was very impressive, or he, Inuyasha, didn’t know Sesshoumaru as well as he had thought. Maybe he was asleep and caught in some surrealistic, warped dream.

“Inuyasha, you will catch locusts,” Sesshoumaru stated in that flat, baritone voice, hiding his amusement and satisfaction. He had pleased his mate and had surprised him as well.

“Come, Inuyasha,” Sesshoumaru said, rising to his feet, not even thanking Miroku.

Inuyasha was finally awakened from his shock-induced stupor. “I have something…private that I’d like to ask Miroku,” he said hesitantly.

Sesshoumaru narrowed his eyes. His mate should be able to confide in him in all things; however, that particular subject could be negotiated without the monk’s presence. He would get his answers…later. Before turning, he gave Miroku a respectful nod and swept from the stifling hut. Outside, he took a deep breath, thinking to clear his head. However, the stench of humans tainted the air. He would give Inuyasha privacy while giving himself some much-needed fresh air by creating some distance between himself and the local humans.

Inside the hut, Miroku stood and strode over to seat himself next to Inuyasha, settling his mind and wiping it clear of the past two hour’s intensive and nerve-wracking examination.

“What is it that you wish to ask me, my friend?” Miroku asked, becoming concerned at Inuyasha’s scowling countenance.

“That bitch, Jinenji’s mother, said that I am bound to Sesshoumaru because of some blood thing with our swords. I want to know if there is anything about our relationship that isn’t real, that isn’t just him and me being who we are.” Inuyasha frowned over at Miroku.

“Was that all she said about it? Did she mention any magic?” Miroku asked, concerned that Inuyasha might have doubts that could impede his newfound happiness.

“No. That was it. I’ve tried to ignore what she said. It keeps popping up in my head and I want it gone.”

“Well, have no fear, my friend!” Miroku said with a genuine smile. “Your swords are bound by your father’s fangs. You and Sesshoumaru are bound by his blood. The old woman is a healer and sees the truth of these bonds. There is nothing so strong as the bonds of family. Their presence and love heals us in so many ways. It is the nature of things. Those humans without family or without close friends tend to heal more slowly, give up more quickly, and are weaker, both mentally and physically. Though a family cannot be adopted, the bond of blood is stronger.”

Miroku furrowed his brows as he bypassed the most prominent and painful memories of his childhood in order to bring up those that gave him comfort. Avoiding the memory of his father being swallowed up into the wind tunnel, he dug further back.

“I recall from my childhood; I would hear my father call for me. When I found him, he would say that he hadn’t called me, though he had been preparing to do so. I always knew when he needed me. The bonds of some families are stronger and more spiritual than others. Seeing that you and Sesshoumaru are youkai, you should have that type of connection; perhaps even stronger than humans. Do not worry so much, Inuyasha! Be happy!”

That did make some kind of sense. While standing and breathing a sigh of relief, Inuyasha couldn’t help but quirk a smile at Miroku’s mile-wide grin.

“Thanks for your help, Miroku. I’ll go get Shippou and catch up to Sesshoumaru. I’m sure that he couldn’t stand being around so many humans.” Inuyasha fidgeted. It was customary to give some kind of blessing. “Sango is strong. She will bear you a strong son. Take good care of her. I’ll be back soon to check up on you two.”

“It is my pleasure to help such a dear friend, Inuyasha. Thank you for thinking of me in your efforts to find happiness,” Miroku said as he stood, his black and purple robes swishing over the wooden floor.

Both headed out to find a certain little fox kit that had just high-tailed it to the field where the other children were playing. Only minutes later, the little instigator was sitting atop Inuyasha’s left shoulder while they approached Sesshoumaru. Shippou watched, incredibly pleased, as Inuyasha entwined his fingers with Sesshoumaru’s and was reciprocated.

The afternoon was bright. The crisp breeze of a waning autumn was full of the scent of the surrounding forests. Peace settled on the family as they made their way home.

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Thanks to all who have reviewed previous chapters. It is a great encouragement. I know I haven’t included everyone here, but it’s the best I can do for now.

Kitty Gets Loose
Thank you for mentioning the build up before Sesshoumaru admits that he loves Inuyasha. I had hoped it worked. Thanks for the confirmation. Not only on that one, but the fight as well. I had hoped that I had done a good job. ^_^ Thank you for the earlier comment about the story bringing out emotions. This story was a sincere attempt to do that and you have let me know that I’ve succeeded. I hope the ending chapters don’t disappoint you. This chapter killed me and I may have rushed the ending. Even if it is in an email rather than a review, I’d appreciate it if you let me know if I did that.

jdbbrz
I finally have a beta and hope the grammar is better. I’m glad you liked the chapter. Thanks for mentioning the inclusion of memories. This story was a study in introspection and angst. LOL You’re so funny. Your sister probably still thinks you’re nuts. LOL

DaGrrrl
Awesome to hear from you! I’m still confused about ‘Legion’, but someone told me that it’s a good thing. ^_^ Thank you for the compliment! Oooh, I’m glad that my story makes you want to write and that you still like it! I’ve noticed that you have been writing. You know which story of yours that I’m interested in and I have no idea where to find it anymore. *pouts* Call me obsessive. I don’t review you often anymore, but when I do have the opportunity to read your work, I’m always, always impressed with your ability to write emotions. *hugs* I can only hope to write them half as good as you do.

Anasuya
*hugs* Thanks for being such a good friend and supporter. Glad you enjoyed the chapter. The maiming comment was to get me over the headache of learning introspection and bringing in a turning point in Sesshoumaru’s thinking. Seriously, I had a migraine over that one. ^_^ I’m glad you liked it.

martianbunny
Thank you for the review! One chapter left! ^_^

I love kouga
Thank you for reviewing! I hope you continue reading. Last chapter is coming! ^_^

kmoaton
Thank you for the review. I don’t believe I get notices on your story updates anymore. That has been happening with a lot of stories I’ve favorited. I’ll have to see if I can get that fixed. Thank you for your review. As you can see, a fight did go down! LOL

Lynx212
Thanks for reading again and for reviewing. I’m glad you can enjoy it for a second read. ^_^

Caitriona695
Thanks for your review and enthusiasm. ^_^ I have tried to make Kouga exasperating and a bit loveable. He is loyal, even with his density.

Inumimi
Thank you for all of your wonderful reviews and for your patience with updates.

Caelestis
Thank you for the compliments on the lemon. It is good to see that I accomplished my goal and that’s encouraging. *hugs*

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*Disclaimer*

Inuyasha and all associated characters are owned by Rumiko Takahashi, Shogakukan, Yomiuri TV, Sunrise, and Viz. I make no profit from this story, nor do I intend to. My only goal is to occupy my demented mind with delusions of actually owning a life-sized, anatomically correct Sesshoumaru.

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