Her Destiny

Chapter 32

Kagome was the first to stir the next morning. She found herself tightly wrapped in arms and legs, plus she was pinned against Sesshoumaru’s chest. She yawned, trying to stretch her tired body from sleeping in one position all night.

Her mind started to process everything that happened the night before as a bright red blush started to appear on her rosy cheeks. Then she heard a growl coming from behind her, and before she knew what was going on, she was rolled onto her back, with a nice set of lips crashing into her own, ravishing her nice warm cavern.

Her mind went blank as she gave into her passion for her mate. When they finally separated she was panting hard for some air. Her body was tingling from the affects of the kiss while her arousal went through the roof.

Sesshoumaru woke up when his mate started to move in his arms. He remembered what she did to him last night, his beast reared and pinned her to their futon. He kissed her with such passion that he took away her ability to breathe. When he finally released her, he raised his head as he looked at his mate.

His mate was flushed, her eyes were unfocused, and her scent was very arousing. He nuzzled her under her chin while he waited for her to calm. Once he felt that she was calm enough he said, “Why did you subdue me last night?”

Kagome heard her mate’s question, and answered, “You asked me what your mother and I were discussing. I thought that I would show you what we talked about instead of telling you. Did you not enjoy yourself? Did I not please you last night?”

Sesshoumaru growled viciously at her as he said, “You are not the dominant one here mate. I am the male, it is my right to pleasure you, not you pleasure yourself.”

Tears formed in Kagome’s eyes, her sorrowful orbs turned towards her mate, as a single tear left her eyes, stating, “I… I… I didn’t please you then? I’m sorry. I will never do it again.”

Sesshoumaru’s beast did not like it when their mate cried. It purred to comfort her as his chest vibrated for a few minutes. Once she calmed, he tried again, “Kagome, you pleased me very much last night, but I could not touch you. I would have enjoyed it much more if I could have touched you. I have never been subdued and it was very stimulating, but I also wanted to bring you pleasure. Next time allow me to touch you.”

Kagome nodded her head in agreement as he continued to ravish her neck. He captured her lips again, as he left nothing untouched by his tongue, he then moved south to her glorious mounds.

---oOo---

Down the hallway a similar thing was happening to Ayashiko, when she woke up this morning.

Inutaisho has been awake for a while now, after a night of wondrous passion, that left his body totally ravished by his mate, his beast was fit to be tied. His inner inu, having never been subdued by his lovely mate, didn’t know what to make of it.

They have never been pleasured like that before and they were at a loss for words. They wondered briefly, if their lovely mate was speaking to their pup about such acts, as how to please a male.

Now he understood what Sesshoumaru experienced, he had to say that he loved it. He hoped with all his heart that his lovely mate will do that again, but first thing first. He had to show his lovely mate that he was till the dominant male and her alpha.

He will welcome such acts in the future, but with some modifications. He turned his attention toward his mate that was waking up from her night of increditable passion.

Ayashiko woke this morning feeling exuberated. She never noticed that her mate was already awake and he was looking at her with lust filled eyes.

Ayashiko never thought that she had it in her to do that to her mate. But when she got started she found that she could not stop what she was doing. She felt empowered by it all as her real passion for her mate was released. Her pup was right it did make her more excited to be with her mate.

Her mate reacted so positive towards her administration. When he howled, at the feeling of her sucking on his manhood, it gave her a feeling of power over her mate.

She never knew why the females of her era never learn any of this, and wondered what else she could learn from her pup. Now she knew why he was always the one to dominate. It gave you the feeling of power, over the one you loved, and she wanted to experience that once again.

She was laying on her futon, thinking about last night, as her arousal spiked. The next thing she knew, she was forced onto her back and pinned to the futon by her mate, with his lips on hers. His hands were going everywhere as she submitted to his will. She still loved his domineering ways. She would love to continue experimenting from time to time, but right now, she was too interested in the male that was on top of her.

Inutaisho had an evil thought, as he broke away from his kiss with his mate. He never seen her so passionate about their joining before and it excited him. He looked into her eyes, while they were tainting red. He then growled and said, “Last night, my mate, you were very naughty. I will have to punish you and show you just who the dominant one is.”

He took her hands and pinned them above her head as he began to ravish her body. Ayashiko thought that if this was her punishment for her treatment of him last night, he could punish her this way everyday for all she cared. She was in heaven as they proceeded to join once more before they started their day.

---oOo---

Kagome finally made it out of the bathing chambers, she got sick again this morning, before Katsuki brought up her tea to settle her stomach. They were in the middle of making love when she got sick.

Much to her mate’s disappointment and vicious growls at her, for pushing him off her body, she managed to leave their futon and run into the bathing chambers with her mate hot on her heels. The servants put a bucket along with some fresh water in an empty room for her, so she could relieve herself if she was to get sick.

When she was done cleaning herself she sat back and groaned. She just wished that she could get over this part of being pregnant. She hated throwing up every morning and if she had any say in it, she would have Katsuki bring up her tea before she woke.

Sesshoumaru was watching her from the door of the room and once she was done he moved in and picked her up off the floor. He cleaned her up and then went into the hot springs to soothe her. They stayed there for a while until her stomach settled.

Sesshoumaru summoned Katsuki when he got his mate dressed for the day. She brought up the tea for her and waited until she finished drinking it. Once she was feeling better she and Sesshoumaru walked out of their room and went downstairs to eat.

When they entered the dining area his parents greeted them. There was something different about them this morning as Sesshoumaru watched his parents carefully. He has never seen his father this calm before and he was pleased to see him this way.

He saw the bright smile on his mothers face as she was looking at his mate. He glanced out the corner of his eye to see the bright smile that Kagome returned to his mother. It seemed that his mother tried some of the things that Kagome mentioned to her last night, hence the good mood his father was in.

He wondered, what exactly did his mother do, to make his father so happy this morning? He would have to find out once they were alone, after all he could not stand it if his father experienced something he has yet to experience.

They all sat down as they ate their morning meal. It was anything but quiet at the table as everyone was carrying on a conversation. When they were done his mate leaned over and kissed his cheek as she went to stand and leave. He grabbed her wrist as she turned to look at him with a question in her eyes. He didn’t want her to leave just yet as he asked, “Where are you going?”

Kagome’s lips widened, while she responded, “I have some things to do with your mother this morning. I will see you later aiyoku.”

Sesshoumaru released her wrist, while he watched her leave, with his mother and Sango in tow. He had no idea what they were going to do this morning. He really wanted to be with his mate, he was not finished with her. They didn’t finish their morning activities, she got sick before they got started, and he really wanted to go back to their room and finish.

Inutaisho looked at his son and noticed the disappointment in his features. He knew that Kagome was trying to adjust to the normal way of life here, and leaving her mate to conduct his business, was just part of the routine.

He cleared his throat, bringing his son’s attention back to him, “Come Sesshoumaru, we have work to do. You do not have to worry about your mate. She will be well protected with your mother and Sango.”

Sesshoumaru sighed, he knew his father was right but he just did not want to leave his mate. He had a bad feeling that something was going to happen and he needed to be near her. He had no doubt that his mother could protect Kagome but she was still his to protect.

They both got up, leaving the dining hall and going towards his father’s study. When they arrived at their destination they submerged themselves into the matters of the lands.

Sesshoumaru was not interested in what his father was saying. His thoughts were on his mate as he reached out with his senses to find her. He felt her happiness and laughter, he wondered what they were talking about that made her laugh like that.

He sighed thinking, ‘We have to find Jakyoku spies as soon as possible. I don’t want them to learn that Kagome is pupped or they will go after her. I want her safe and I can’t shake the feeling that something is going to happen and soon.’

---oOo---

The days passed as everyone settled down to his or her daily routine. Kagome, Ayashiko, and Sango would go off every morning and spend the whole day together. They never left the castle, as they spent the day in the sunning room, as Kagome called it.

This was Kagome’s favorite room in the castle. She said that it made her happy because she felt like she was out doors while she was nice and warm inside the room. They set up a painting area for her so she could paint her marvelous paintings.

Kagome painted a portrait of her mate and his father in their true form. She witnessed when Inutaisho changed into his true form, father and son had to leave the castle to take care of some youkai that were causing trouble in the area. She was amazed at the two and had captured their expression perfectly as they left to protect the lands.

Ayashiko upon seeing the portrait asked Kagome for it and she was happy to give it to her. Kagome painted several others as she painted a portrait of Sesshoumaru’s Hiijiji, Inutaisho, and Sesshoumaru. When Inutaisho saw the painting he was amazed that she was able to capture his Jii-san so perfectly. He really didn’t have any portraits of his Jii-san and was surprised when she painted his portrait, and then she presented the painting to him as a gift. That portrait now hangs in Inutaisho study as a personal gift from his pup.

On this day two of Inutaisho’s soldiers came to his study and knocked on the door. Upon hearing that they could enter, they opened the door and stepped in. Between them they held a ningen tightly in their grasp as they released him, making him fall flat on his face, in their lord’s presence.

---oOo---

Inutaisho was discussing the winter formal that is to happen in a few days. Their mates were getting the castle ready to receive their guest. He was amazed at the way everything looked. Kagome had some wonderful ideas on how to decorate the castle. There were red and green fabrics hanging in different places to enhance the beauty of the castle.

She got a few of the servants and went out into the forest to cut down some pine trees. They brought them back to the castle, as Kagome had them decorated for the formal and they looked beautiful. There were red, silver, blue, and yellow bows on the trees. She had a star on the tops of all the trees as she placed them all over the castle, including the grand audience chamber. She explained to them, that if they kept the trunk of the trees in water that they will last for a few weeks and still be fresh. The castle now smelled of pine and it was very pleasing to his senses.

Inutaisho was discussing what else they needed to do for the formal, when they heard a knock on the door. Inutaisho felt his soldiers standing there with another individual with them. A smile came upon his features as he said, “Enter.”

Sesshoumaru was watching his father carefully. In the days that followed his first experience, at what his mate called oral sex, his father was in a really good mood. He was relieved to find out that his father experienced the same thing he did that first night. Though hearing these things from his father made him a little uncomfortable.

His father will often smile when he was deep in thought and his arousal would spike because of it. It was not often that he would smile, but now there was something at the door that his father has been waiting for. He turned to the door and looked to see who was coming in.

Inutaisho witnessed as his soldiers came into the room and then dropped Miroku on the floor. “Thank you, now why don’t you two go and take a nice long rest. I will handle this one.”

The soldiers bowed as they left the room, they felt pity for the monk, they were well aware of the lord’s wrath when angered. And by the look in his eyes, this monk did something that angered their lord, it was not going to be pretty, once he was done with him.

---oOo---

Miroku has been traveling the lands since he left the western castle, almost two weeks ago. His heart was heavy for having to leave his beloved behind. He truly loved Sango but he could not be with her, at least not yet.

He has no money or wealth to call his own. Yes the Lord of the Lands said that they could stay at the castle or in a hut of his choosing, but it was not his so he could show no wealth.

When he could finally prove, to her father, that he could provide for her well-being, then he could be with her, but not before then. His male pride will not allow him to be with her. He knew that he left Sango in tears but there was nothing he could do at this point in time.

While he traveled he thought about what happened, he couldn’t help but kick himself for not noticing that Sango’s father wanted to marry his daughter off into a high ranking noble family. If he succeeded in doing this, then he would profit from her union. That’s why he didn’t want to give his blessing for their union. He was still hoping that he could convince his daughter to see the errors of her ways.

Miroku traveled far and wide as he helped all those in need. When they paid him with money he would put it away and save it. He needed the money to buy some land so that he and Sango could build a home.

But nothing is ever easy in his life. He came upon a family that was in need of food and clothing for their children. The male was injured and could not provide for his family. The look in the children eyes told of the rough time they had.

He sighed as he went and brought enough food to last them for at least a month. It was not much, just rice and vegetables, but it will go a long way to feed a family that didn’t have anything to eat.

He went hunting for them but was only able to capture a small rabbit to feed them. He brought fabric, so the woman could make warm clothes for the children. Then he went to a farm and brought several live chickens and a roster and brought everything back to them.

The family was very grateful for his assistance but they almost didn’t accept the food. He explained that it was his duty, as a monk to Buddha, that he helps the people of the lands. The family accepted his gifts as he left them and continued on his way.

Miroku sighed as he was walking down a dirt path leading to another village. It was a cold day and he was trying to keep warm while he traveled. He stopped in the road when he noticed some soldiers coming towards him. He stepped off to the side to let them pass as he continued to walk toward his destination.

The soldiers stopped and eyed the monk, as one of them steps forward and asked, “Are you the monk known as Miroku?”

Miroku was curious as he said, “Yes, my name is Miroku, what can I help you with?”

The soldiers looked relieved to have found the ningen that their lord wanted as the soldier replied, “You are to come with us. The Lord of the Lands demands your presence at Gengetsujou.”

Miroku’s eyes opened wide as he said, “I’m sorry my friends but I can’t go with you at the moment. I have pressing business in the next village and they are waiting for me.” He tried to go around them but the soldiers stopped him in his tracks.

Then one of the soldier said, “You don’t understand monk, you don’t have a choice in the matter. We were sent by Lord Inutaisho to bring you back to the castle and that’s where you are going. So come with us quietly or we will take you by force.”

Miroku was about to pull out a sutra to stop the soldiers but they were faster than him. One of them rushed in and knocked the monk unconscious, the other soldier picked him up and then they raced back toward Gengetsujou, glad that they did not have to spend months out here looking for this monk.

Miroku was finally coming around when he noticed that he was being held tightly between two soldiers and was being dragged to the lord’s study. He remembered this place very well as he struggled to get free.

The soldiers held him firmly in their grasp, as they stopped in front of the door and knocked. When Miroku heard the call to enter, he grimaced, and was dragged inside the room.

He was not prepared to be released so quickly, as he fell to the floor on his face. He sat up rubbing his head as he saw a pair of booted feet come to stand in front of him. His mouth felt dry as he got up and kneeled in front of the lord. He swallowed hard and asked, “How may I be of service to you milord?”

Inutaisho watched as his soldiers dropped the monk in front of him. He dismissed them as he got up from his desk and walked in front of the monk. He could smell the fear that the monk was emanating from his body as he saw him bow low to the ground. He was not happy with this monk at the moment as he said, “Miroku, give me a good reason, right now, on why I should not kill you?”

Miroku shook in fear as he heard the lord’s question. He sighed as he said, “I do not know what I did to merit being killed at this moment, milord. I can only hope that I can clarify any misunderstandings that you might think I have done, and make them right.”

Inutaisho sniffed as he continued, “Why did you leave the castle when you and Sango got back from her village, without informing me?”

Miroku cringed at the way Inutaisho was speaking to him. His voice was harsh as he kneeled fully, placing his staff on the ground, and hung his head. He took a deep breath as he said, “Milord, I didn’t want to go, but on the way back here I realized that Sango’s father did have a valid point. I’m not rich, nor am I a man with lands of my own. It will take time for me to have these things and being a monk does not help.

“I roam the land helping all those in need. I sometime get paid with food and a place to stay for the night. Sometimes I get money for my services. I do try to save but when I run into a family in need, then I am forced to help them. What little funds I have I spend to help the people of the lands, to help them to maintain their families, until they are back on their feet.

“I realized that Sango deserves a better life than this. I want to provide her with the best of every thing and put a roof over her head but my current occupation makes that hard. I thought that if I left her here, under your care, that she will find someone that will take care of her the way she deserves.”

Inutaisho’s eyes soften just a little bit. He understood what the monk was saying, and if truth be told, he was at fault here as well. He should have told the monk what he planned so he could get his agreement to work for him.

He sighed as he looked at the monk and said in a commanding voice, “Miroku, get up.”

Miroku shuttered as he stood on his feet, he never raised his eye to the Inu Lord as he stood there waiting for his next commands or to be killed. Either way he knew he was not going to like what will happen next.

But to his surprise he heard the Lord say, “Miroku, take a seat by my desk.”

Miroku was shocked to hear this but immediately complied with his request. He looked up long enough to notice where the pillow was located, as he spotted Sesshoumaru sitting to the right of his father’s desk. He held no emotions in his features and he briefly wondered if he ever showed any. He sat on the indicated pillow waiting to hear what Inutaisho wanted from him.

Inutaisho walked back to his desk as he sat down and stared at the monk. He had to approach this subject carefully, he wanted to make sure that he did not insult the monk. He knew that Sango desired this man, and as a man, he has been hurt by not being able to provide for his chosen female.

He took a deep breath as he started, “Miroku, I guess some of this is my fault. I should have talked to you before we left the slayer village, so you understood what I have planned. But unfortunately for you, I was more interested in my mate and pups, to pull you off to the side and speak with you.

“I have a solution to your problem, if you take it, Sango will be well provided for and she could still serve as the personnel body guard to Kagome.”

Miroku looked up to Inutaisho for the first time, hope was seeping into his heart, ‘Could he really have a plan that will enable me to have Sango as my wife? It couldn’t hurt to listen to what he has to say and see if it’s to my liking.’ He waited patiently for the Lord to continue with his words.

Inutaisho saw the look of hope in Miroku’s eyes as he continued, “Monk, I want you to work for me. You have a certain talent with the people of my lands. Your knowledge and caring nature for both the ningens and youkai surprises me.

“You proved this when you saved those youkai from being killed for no reason. You kept them safe and subdued until you found a way to release them from the spell they were under.

“You go out of your way to help the people of the lands because it’s the right thing to do. I’m impressed. I have seen too many of your kind turn their backs on those in need and leave them to their demise.

“If you accept my offer then you will receive a small particle of land here within the boundaries of my castle. You may build a home for yourself and Sango. I will provide the material and labor to do so.

“You will be paid for being a trusted advisor to me, anything that you can tell me on how to improve on the lives of the people from my lands I will listen to. If you have any knowledge on who needs food and other necessities for the winter you are to tell me and we shall send help to that region. I want to make sure that ningens and youkais alike survive the winter months.”

To say that Miroku was shocked was an understatement. The lord’s offer will let him provide for his beloved Sango and still help the people of the lands. He knew of some places that were having a rough time right now, in trying to feed their people. If what he was saying was true, then he will be able to send help to them.

Miroku looked at the youkai lord as he said, “Very well milord, I do accept your offer. I know of some villages that are having some problems feeding everyone for the winter. I also know of some youkai settlements that are having problems as well. If you will help these villages and settlements, then I will have peace of mind that I did my job to see to their welfare.”

Inutaisho was surprised that he had many villages that needed help. He was unaware of all of this; no one has reported to him that they had a need. He will have to take note of where these villages were located so he could bring that regions minor lord before him.

They were declared minor lords to make sure that the area was taken care of, not have them starve to death. This monk might prove to be very useful to him, he could easily go out in the land and look around to see how the people are living. This will help him manage their welfare and keep an eye on them to make sure they have enough food for the winter.

Inutaisho looked at the monk as he said, “Very well monk you are now working for me. The only thing that I will need from you is to show one of my people where you would like your home to be built and everything else will be taken care of. It will have to wait until the spring before we can begin to build it. Its too cold and the wood will be too wet to handle.” After he got Miroku’s agreement about when the home would be built he continued.

“Now I want to know of these villages that are in need of help. I have not been made aware that there is a need throughout this land and every minor lord has a responsibility to his people. If they are not taking care of them then I need to know who they are.”

Sesshoumaru, so far has been sitting next to his father quietly. He had a thought as he voiced his concerns and desires, “Father, before you get started on this, I have something that I want the monk to do for me.”

Inutaisho raised an eyebrow to his son and nodded for him to proceed with his request.

Miroku sat up straighter on his pillow as he listened to see what Sesshoumaru wanted from him.

Sesshoumaru turned his attention to Miroku as he said, “Monk, you know that you will have to deal with my mate before you will be allowed to see the slayer. She is upset at the moment because you abandoned Sango. Plus there is the fact that she went through all that trouble, to make sure that Sango’s father agreed to let you two mate.”

Miroku lowered his head in shame, he did not mean to make the miko angry with him, “I am aware of that milord. I will make amends with your mate. I am hoping that she is of a forgiving nature and understands what I have been going through.”

Sesshoumaru smirked, while eyeing the monk, “Yes, my mate is very forgiving but not before she tells you what is on her mind. But her wrath is not what I wanted you to be aware of. My mate is pupped, or pregnant in ningen terms. She gets easily upset and I will not have that. Plus, I want it kept a secret for the moment. Only those with need to know have this information.

“There are spies here in the castle that used to work for Jakyoku when he was alive. I believe that they will extract revenge on us, for destroying their lord.

“What I want is for you to keep your eyes and ears open. Since you don’t know anyone here it should be easy for you to scrutinize everyone in the castle. We, as inu youkai, tend to take loyalties to our clan very seriously. We have no idea how long these spies have been in the castle and we wish for a fresh set of eyes to see all, that way we can weed out these spies before they attack my mate and mother.”

Miroku understood what Sesshoumaru was saying. He could be able an impartial judge on who is a spy and who is not. He looked up at Sesshoumaru as he said, “I understand milord, I will try my best to see if I can find them. When I have found them I will report to you or your father.”

Sesshoumaru was happy about this. He has been trying to find these fools but it’s been difficult. He had a suspicion that it might be someone they trusted and he didn’t want to take the chance with his mate. The sooner he found this threat, the sooner he could get rid of it.

They finally got to the business at hand, which area of their lands needed help with supplies for the winter. There were amazed that the monk traveled so much since he left the castle, and they took note of those areas in trouble. They will have to go out there to see what is going on and why these minor lords have not informed them that their area was in need of food for their people.

---oOo---

After Miroku provided the lord with all the information he wanted he was introduced to the Kenchikuka, Tsutomu, who will be building his home. They walked outside as Miroku turned to Tsutomu and said, “I have no idea what location will be good to build in. If you have any suggestions, then please by all means let me know.”

Tsutomu was an Inu Youkai with brown hair, he had white splotches scattered throughout. His hair was pulled into a high ponytail on the top of his head to keep it out of the way. He had well defined muscles and stood about Miroku’s height. He was wearing a tan haori and hakama with a green slash, holding what appeared to be a small dagger and something else Miroku could not identify.

Tsutomu stood there thinking as he said, “I take it that you want an area that the soil is rich for growing. A place that is quiet, where you can raise your family in peace. A location that will give you a place to meditate, yet close enough to the castle so you could do your duty.”

“Yes, that is exactly what I need, my intended is the guard for Lady Kagome and she needs to be close incase someone attacks. I want Sango to be happy there and to live in peace.” Miroku said as he eyed the Kenchikuka.

Tsutomu knew of a good location for him, as he turned to the monk and said, “Then follow me, I think I know of a place that will suit your needs. It’s close, private, and it’s the best lands that surrounds, Gengetsujou.”

Miroku agreed as he followed Tsutomu into the forest. They didn’t walk very far into the forest when they came to a small clearing. It was beautiful in Miroku’s opinion. There was a small stream that was running to the right of the land. A small hot spring was to the left and the land in the middle was rich and flat. Easy to build a home on and plant a garden for his beloved Sango.

Tsutomu turned to the monk and asked, “Will this place suit your needs? If not we can go elsewhere to find another piece of land.”

Miroku shook his head, as he said, “No, this place is perfect. I could never find another area as pure as this one. This is the perfect place to build the home that I want for Sango.”

Tsutomu nodded his head in understanding, “All right, I will get the workers started on your new home when the first signs of spring is present. We should have the project completed in a half moon cycle. Lord Inutaisho has already told me everything that I need to know on how to build it.”

Miroku was shocked to hear this as he asked in a shaky voice, “What kind of structure did Lord Inutaisho ask you to build?”

Tsutomu smiled, “I’m not at liberty to tell you monk. Just know that it will be suitable for you and your mate to be.”

Tsutomu turned and walked away, now that he had a location for the structure he was to build, he needed to make sure that he had everything that he needed to build it. He was not one to deny the lord anything he wanted. He was sure that the monk was going to be surprised once he saw the structure that the lord ordered him to build.

From what he has heard, it was the slayers father that was interfering in their mating, and the lord was determined to prove him wrong. The young slayer will live like a queen and will be well protected within the confines of Gengetsujou.

He couldn’t wait to see the slayers eyes when she saw his creation. He was very fond of the slayer but she never gave him the time of day. He knew that she didn’t care that he was a youkai; she just didn’t want any male near her.

Who could blame a male for not going back to that female? She had a mean right hook, which he himself had the pleasure of coming into contact with. He gave the monk some credit. He didn’t know how he could keep going back to her while she beat him senseless for his lecherous acts. But then again, when you are in love there is no way anything can stop you from getting, what you want.

Miroku watched as Tsutomu left the area. He turned back to the area they selected to build his home. It was beautiful and calm, he felt at peace here like he was meant to be in this place. He stayed there for a while enjoying the quiet surrounding. Then it was time to face the music, he had to go back to the castle and see Sango, but before he could talk to her, he had to get passed the miko. This was not going to be easy.

---oOo---

Kagome, Ayashiko, and Sango were all sitting around the fire in the room that Kagome called the sunning room. They have just finished decorating the castle for the winter formal. Kagome came up with the idea on what to do since it was very close to Christmas. She knew that no one in this era knew what Christmas was but she just could not help but feel happy about decorating the castle.

They were all tired from their efforts and Kagome’s eyes were beginning to close. She was sitting on her favorite pillow as she snuggled deeper into it and let the warmth of the fire take her. She didn’t know that being pupped would take this much out of her, but she was happy that she was. Nothing could upset her, she was going to have a pup of her own and she was happy.

Kagome almost fell asleep when there was a knock on the door. She opened a lazy eye as she heard Ayashiko say “Enter.” She was about to close her eyes when she noticed the male who came into the room. Her tiredness went out the window as she stood on her feet to face the male.

She heard a gasp from Sango when she saw him walk into the room. Kagome’s anger was slowly growing, turning her heated eyes toward the male, she walked in his direction. He was going to answer her questions before she allowed Sango to speak to him. And if he didn’t answer to her satisfaction then he will feel her wrath.

---oOo---

Miroku got his nerves under control as he made his way over to the sunning room. He had no idea what this room was but he gathered that the females of the castle could be located there.

He stopped in front of two very large doors as he took a deep calming breath. He knew of at least one angry female that was going to eat him alive for leaving his lovely Sango behind. But he had to make her understand his side of things and prayed to Buddha that she will not kill him before he could speak to his beloved.

Once his nerves were under control he brought himself to his full height and knocked on the door. He waited patiently when he heard, “Enter,” from inside the room. He swallowed hard and let out a long calming breath before he opened the door and stepped in.

His breath hitched when he saw the love of his life, beautifully dressed in a green kimono and golden obi. Her hair was up in a tight bun at the base of her neck. She looked beautiful in his eyes, when he heard a growl to the right of Sango. He turned his attention towards the person that growled, he was surprised that the growl came from Kagome.

It was a ferial growl that she released and Miroku was amazed that she could even do that at all. He stopped in his tracks, as he kneeled in front of Kagome with his eyes down. If he appeared to be submissive, then she will not get angry, and her mate will not kill him.

Kagome noticed when the monk landed his eyes on Sango. He was staring at her with hungry eyes, and he had no right. He left her behind, like garbage, and this was not acceptable, pride be damned.

She let loose a growl that even frightened Ayashiko and Sango. She stood as she walked toward the monk in a regal manner. No one has ever seen Kagome act like this before. She was acting her station and commanded respect, stopping about two feet away from him.

Another growl left her chest as she said, “What are you doing here Miroku?”

Miroku swallowed hard, trying to get his nerves under control, “I came here to apologize to the lovely Sango, milady. I didn’t mean to leave her the way I did. But what her father said held merit. I have no wealth to call my own, no lands, or servants. I’m a simple monk that wishes to serve the people of the lands and I made a mistake when I left her.

“My days have been endless, with no happiness to fill it. When I see the children playing in the fields, I wonder what mine would look like if Sango and I were together. I wanted to prove her father wrong, that I can provide for her.

“I left here with the hopes of returning to the castle one day, once I had these things. Then I could to make her mine.

“Now my future is looking brighter. I now have the means to provide for her well being, and if she still agrees, I want to court her until she comes to term with me and then we can marry.”

Kagome detected no falsehood in the things he said. She looked over her shoulder and noticed the tears that were falling from Sango’s eyes. She could tell that she loved him and that soften her heart. Her anger started to go away while her aura calmed.

But she was not going to let the monk off the hook yet. He made Sango cry and he was going to pay for that. She turned her attention back to Miroku narrowing her eyes at him. “I understand that your male pride has been hurt, Miroku. To be told that you have nothing to offer a young maiden as a husband.

“I don’t even know if my understanding of your traditions is correct. You traveled all the way to the slayer village, to meet her father, to prove to him that you are the perfect male for his daughter. You fought a battle, which was to test your word to protect that, which is dear to you.

“You came all the way back here, to get me, to help you seal an evil entity that possessed several youkai and ningens. You were not ashamed to accept my help in destroying it.

“But the moment you leave the slayers village, the moment you leave the other males that you were posturing against, to show that you are a worthy male, you have your doubts. You let their feeble words cloud your judgment and rule your life.

“You pushed Sango aside like she was nothing and left her to her own demise. The male pride is a dangerous thing, Miroku. It can lead you down the wrong path in life. Only the strong can accept the things they can change and live with the things that they cannot.

“A strong and powerful female comes along only once in a lifetime and if you are stupid enough to let her fall through your fingers, then you don’t deserve her.

“But it’s not my decision to make. It is Sango’s and I will live with her decision. But if it were left up to me, you will not have her. You are certainly not worthy enough.”

Kagome then turned and went to the clear wall, she looked out into the dead forest, wondering if she made any sense to the useless male, that wanted her best friend and sister. She will protect her at all cost, but the choice was Sango’s to make. She could not tell Sango who she could love.

Sango sat there stunned at what Kagome said to the monk. Never before has she ever heard Kagome speak so forcefully, so eloquently, and with so much passion. It was evident that Kagome had a rough life and she understands all too well where the female in this era belongs. She is strong of will and Sango hopes that Kagome never looses that part of her nature.

Now she has a decision to make, can she accept the male back into her life, when he so blatantly, left her for no other reason, than he had no wealth? She took a deep breath as she stood and walked over to the monk. He was still kneeling in the room as he thought about what Kagome told him.

Miroku was shocked at the way that Kagome spoke to him. She spoke with such conviction and passion that it had him thinking about the things he did. She was right in one thing though, a strong female comes along once in a lifetime. If he could not make amends with Sango then he knew that he has lost the one person he truly wanted to be with all his life.

He heard the gently padding of small feet as he looked up to see Sango approaching him. He lowered his eyes, not being worthy enough to look upon her beauty. He felt ashamed for what he did to her, and he will not blame her in the least, if she denied his suit.

Sango stopped in front of Miroku, she noticed when he looked away from her, while she was walking towards him. She could understand why he did it, but they could have talked about this before he left her here.

She gathered her wits, trying to get her thoughts together for what she needed to say. When she had them, she started her speech, “Miroku, you and I could have talked about what my father said. I could have told you, that I knew about his reason to marry me off to one of the warlords in the area. He is my father after all and I did grow up around him.

“I know of his lust for money and power. The only way he could obtain these things was to marry me off to one of the wealthy nobles in the area. That would have brought him wealth and respect among the villagers.

“When Kagome fought him that day, he lost face in the village. As much as he thinks he is still the leader, he is not. They will pick another to lead, one that will not be beaten by a mire female. But it matters not, if Kagome is the female who is fighting them, they will still fall by her hand.

“Why didn’t you stop to talk to me first? Don’t you know that I don’t care about money or wealth? I loved you Miroku and wanted to be with you, but you left me broken that day and it took a good amount of time for me to get myself back together again.

“Now you come back here wanting to court me again. What guarantees do I have that this will not happen again, Miroku? I don’t want a male that doesn’t know what he wants. I want to feel loved and cherished not just a trophy someone has. You had your chance monk and you left it.”

Sango turned and went back to her place. She noticed that Lady Ayashiko was comforting Kagome near the clear wall, she had her arms wrapped tightly around her shoulders and it looked like she was crying. She couldn’t help but feel that she was at fault.

Miroku heart just broke. Sango will not give him another chance. He knew he was to blame for this, but it was still hard to take. He stood on his feet and walked over to his lovely Sango.

He stopped just a few steps from reaching her, “Sango, I understand and I accept your decision. But I only want one thing from you, could we at least… still be friends? I don’t want to loose you, if I can not have you as my wife, I would still like to be your friend.”

Sango considered his words, she thought long and hard about his offer, she turned towards him and said, “Yes, I would like that. We can still be friends.”

Miroku smiled as he turned to leave the room. He had his answer from her, but he was not going to give up. He will give her time, and then once the house was built, he will try again to see if she will marry him. At least he still had her friendship and that’s what counted.

Ayashiko was watching everything that the monk was doing. He was a very sneaky individual. He asked Sango to still be friends and she agreed. But it was his way of keeping company with her, a way to protect her if he had too. She could tell that he was very much in love with Sango, and she will watch to see how all of this will turn out.

She turned her attention toward Kagome who was still upset at the monk. She had calmed down some but was still a little upset, “Come Kagome, I want you to lay down for a little while and rest. I will have Sesshoumaru come up and get you when dinner is to be served.”

Kagome let herself be dragged out of their special room, as she was taken upstairs. Once in her own room, Ayashiko put her in her futon and then pulled the covers over her to keep her warm. She noticed that her pup had fallen asleep as soon as her head hit the pillows. She started the fire in the hearth to keep the room warm, when she was done she left the room to let her pup rest.

Ayashiko noticed how passionately her Musume talked to the monk. It was like she experienced that male pride that she was describing. It was just another part of her pup’s life that she didn’t know anything about.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru went up stairs to see about his mate. His mother told him how upset she got when she was talking to the monk. She recited word for word what Kagome said.

Ayashiko watched the stunned faces of her mate and Sesshoumaru, when she was done speaking. It was her mate who came out of his musing first, “So, this is yet another incident that Kagome has experienced in her life of misery. For her to speak in such a manner she must have experienced this in her life as well.

“We must help her get through this part of her life. She must learn that not all male pride is bad and that she must have faith in us. What the monk did was wrong but it did have its valid points. But we must also understand that she comes from an era where everyone is treated as equals and she is trying to adjust to our way of life.”

Sesshoumaru understood his father’s words but he felt that there was something more to this. He finally reached his room as he opened the door. He saw his beautiful mate standing by the window, looking at the setting sun.

The skies were painted in the most glorious of colors. The red, orange, yellow, and white were painting the skies, making it look picturesque this night, as his mate took on a wonderful glow. It was a soft light that surrounded her body and made her look, divine.

He approached her from behind while she was deep in thought. Wrapping his arms around her small waist, he brought her into his embrace and just held her. He was offering his warmth and strength to help her cope with everything that has happened.

Kagome closed her eyes the moment her mate held her. Somehow, he always knew what she needed to make her feel better. She has been deep in thought about the things she said to Miroku. She had no right to say those things but they just came out.

She needed to get her anger under control and her other emotions as well. She was getting too emotional and that could be dangerous. She could really hurt someone if she lost control. She figured that it was all due to her being pupped. Her hormones were going crazy and it was hard for her to understand what was going on.

She was brought out of her musing when Sesshoumaru said, “Mate, we must head down for dinner. It is about to be served and they will be waiting for us.” Kagome nodded her agreement as they went downstairs to eat.

Everyone that was there greeted them as she turned her gaze towards Sango. There was sadness there and hurt. She will have to speak to her a little later to see if she could make amends. It is not her place to tell Sango who to love. She just wanted her to be happy once more.

When they were done eating, they all left to rest for the night. That night there was no night of passion. There was the gently pulling of arms as her mate brought her into his chest and cuddled behind her. He was gently rubbing her belly as she sighed in contentment. He showered her with attention and love, as she slowly closed her eyes and fell asleep.

Sesshoumaru watched as his mate finally fell asleep. She was emotionally drained and he had to make sure that she got enough rest. He brought her even closer to his chest while his beast soothed her into slumber. Once she was in a deep sleep, he closed his eyes and followed her lead.

He will have to keep a closer eye on his mate from this day forward. He could not take the chance of her purifying their pup.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru woke to the sound of someone knocking on his door. He gave a growl asking who was there. There was a soft yip telling him that they had the morning tea for their lady.

Sesshoumaru grunted, instructing the person to leave the tea outside the door, he will get it in a few minutes. An answering growl came acknowledging the command.

Sesshoumaru then focused his eyes and looked into his arms. His mate was no longer in his arms as he felt a heavy weight on his back. He looked over his shoulder and was surprised to see his mate draped over his back, with his tails wrapped snuggly around her body.

He wondered when she did this, but it didn’t matter at the moment. Her tea was outside and it was getting cold so he needed to move her to the futon. He lifted his tails up as he shifted her sleeping form back onto the futon. Then he slowly pulled his tails away from her body, hearing a whine of protest coming from his mate.

He turned his gaze to his mate, noticing that she was shivering from the cold air in the room. He took the fur covers and placed them on top of her to keep her warm. She settled down, once she felt the warmth surrounding her body, sighing in comfort. He observed as her fingers were seeking him out and moved out of the bed to retrieve her tea.

Quickly putting on a robe he walked to the door and retrieved the tea that was placed on a small table outside. He placed the tray on the small table next to their futon as he poured some in a cup for her, now for the hard part, to wake his mate.

Kagome was having a wonderful dream, it was a beautiful place with lots of flowers and a gentle breeze was blowing through the area. She was laying on her back, with her eyes closed, enjoying the sunshine, when she felt a warm hand on her shoulder. It was trying to wake her, as she gave a groan that told of her displeasure.

Sesshoumaru was shaking his mate trying to wake her. When she wouldn’t respond to his touch he decided to wake her, his way. He leaned down and started to lick her neck as he enjoyed her taste, she still tasted like honey with apples and cinnamon mixed in.

He went down further as he slowly pulled down on the furs to reveal her perky breast. Her nipple extended immediately when the cold air hit it as he brought one into his mouth and started to suckle. His mate shifted as she groaned, while he continued to ravish her nipple.

When he saw her slowly opening her eyes, he stopped what he was doing, and kissed her with all his love. At first she didn’t respond to his gentle touch but then he felt her returning his affection ten fold.

When he pulled away from her sweet lips, he noticed that she was awake, as he nuzzled her and said, “Koiishi, your tea is here and you must drink it. I don’t want you getting sick later.”

Kagome’s eyebrows furrowed together in confusion, then she felt the familiar churning of her stomach, as it was slowly starting to protest. She nodded her agreement as her mate helped her to sit up on the futon. Her mind was still not all the way cleared, but she accepted the drink as she slowly drank it down. Once she was done she closed her eyes again, her mind took her back to her dreams of a few moments ago.

Sesshoumaru was still holding on to his mate, when he noticed that her eyes were closing, falling back to sleep. He took the cup out of her hands and laid her back down to rest. He stood as he looked at the room, it was cold in here, so he went and put more wood on the fire, making it spring to live once again. Soon the room warmed and he went back to his futon where he joined his mate once again.

He gave a big yawn, his canine teeth clearly showing through his mouth, while his tongue curled in an upward motion. He pulled his mate back into his arms as he snuggled into her warmth and went back to sleep.

He hoped that she will soon get over this morning sickness of hers. He was tired of getting up early to make sure she drank the tea so she wouldn’t get sick. He put his nose into her hair and smelled her sweet scent as he fell asleep once again.

---oOo---

Kagome started to stir a couple of hours later. The room was brighter but there was no sun. She could tell that it was cloudy outside and it will be downcast for the rest of the day. She sighed, she hated when the day started dark and gloomy. She preferred the sun to this any day, but she must take what the Kami’s gave her.

She noticed that her mate was wrapped tightly around her body as he held her close to his chest. He smelled wonderful as she enjoyed his scent for a few minutes. His scent was soothing, her body relaxed completely in his hold while she took her hand and gently caressed his back.

She heard a low growl coming from her mate, his chest vibrating gently, while her head was resting on him. She felt his arms tightening around her body, pulling her closer to his, while her hands continued to caress his back.

Sesshoumaru woke up to his mate gentle touch. It made his body hot with desire as she continued with her attention. The sensation was so wonderful that he started his growl like purr, while he pulled his mate closer to his body.

He wanted to stay in bed with his mate. It felt wonderful just to lay there with her in his arms, but all too soon he felt her moving and knew that they had to get up. The festivities were to start in a few hours. The first of their guest were arriving here at the castle before lunch so they had to be ready to greet them.

He growled his displeasures as his mate escaped from his arms. His eyes snapped open to see his mate going into the bathing chambers with a smile on her face. She eyed his body with lust as her eyes narrowed with her desires. He saw her robe fall off her shoulders, slowly letting the material expose her skin for his hungry eyes. She disappeared into the bathing chambers as he raced after her.

---oOo---

They finally left their room about an hour later, Kagome was dressed in a red kimono that sported a white Inu running across the bottom, with a white juban underneath, and a white obi holding everything together. The kimono was very warm for her since she could not take the cold like her mate could. The crescent moon was placed on her right shoulder signifying that she was mated to the heir.

Sesshoumaru had on a similar haori and hakama. His was red with white sakura blossoms running along the edge of the sleeves. His favorite sash was wrapped around his waist. The purple and yellow color of his sash contrasted perfectly with his clothes, while he tucked his swords into his sash. Then he turned his heated eyes towards his mate.

She was beautiful in his eyes as he wrapped his tails around her waist and pulled her into his body. With a growl to show his possessiveness they walked out of their room and headed down to meet his parents.

---oOo---

The morning meal was a short one. There was a lot of things to do, the females were the first ones done as they left the dinning hall to see to the final preparations.

Soon it was time to greet the guest as Kagome and Ayashiko joined their mates outside to greet them.

The day was a cold one. Sesshoumaru wrapped his tails around his mate to keep her warm and tucked into his side.

It was times like these that Kagome appreciated her mate. Not only did he keep her warm with his tails, but he was tall enough to block the wind from hitting her. Inuyasha was standing on the other side of her as he offered his body heat to her to keep her warm.

Sesshoumaru’s beast must have been bored by all the formalities because it decided to tease their mate. His tails would, from time to time, tickle Kagome. It would get her on her neck, around her waist, on her leg, and other hidden places.

It was hard for Kagome to keep her composure as she glared a threat to her mate, that he either restrains his other half or she will do it for him. The look told Sesshoumaru that he will not like her second option so he persuaded his beast to stop. He told him that they could get her later this evening, once all the formalities are over with.

Kagome was standing next to her mate as she watched every lord arrive at the castle. She saw the Northern Lord Kasumigaoka arrive with his mate Lady Tsukiura. Her Otou-san was happy to see his old friend again. She didn’t see that bitch Yoshino with them and she was thankful for that.

Then the Southern Lord, Lord Hashimoto and his mate Lady Keiiyuko arrived next. Her Otou-san greeted them with warm smiles as they exchanged a few words. They looked her way and she saw when Lady Keiiyuko gave her a dirty look. She didn’t understand what was going on but she will find out later. She held her ground as the greetings were passed and they were escorted inside to their rooms.

Lord Yugawara and his mate Shirinko, from the Eastern Lands, arrived without his heir. They were greeted with warmth and kindness from her Otou-san and Oka-san. Again Kagome noticed the evil look she got from the Lady of the East. She had no idea what was going on. She did not have time to speak to these ladies before nor does she have the desire to do so now. She didn’t appreciate their looks and wondered if they got up on the wrong side of the futon this morning.

Once they greeted all of their guests, they walked back inside the castle, and mingled with the crowd of nobles. Kagome was feeling tired as she turned to her mate and said, “Sesshoumaru, I think I’ll go and laid down for a while. I’m tired and I want to rest.”

Sesshoumaru nodded his agreement to her request, as he turned around to escort her upstairs. When they started to walk away, someone called out to Sesshoumaru and requested his presence for a few moments.

Kagome smiled as she said, “Its all right mate. I can go upstairs by myself. You stay here and attend to your duties.” She reached up and kissed his forehead, once her mate leaned down for her to do it, she then turned and continued on her way to her room.

Kagome was about to exit the hall she was in, when she heard some females talking. They were talking about her as she stopped to listen to what they were saying. They either didn’t see her, or they didn’t care, but they continued to rip into her.

There were three female Inu Youkais observing what was happening between Sesshoumaru and the filthy ningen. She was just hanging on Sesshoumaru like the whore she was. Sesshoumaru should have never mated with that filth, he could have any youkai female he wanted but he chose a filthy ningen.

They observed as the ningen leaned up and whispered something in Sesshoumaru’s ear. They watched the couple, as they were about to leave the Grand Audience Chamber. They were all jealous that he mated that bitch instead of one of them. The couple almost reached the door, to leave the hall, when they heard someone calling to Sesshoumaru. They needed his assistance in a delicate matter and wanted a few minutes of his time.

They all heard the ningen say that she will just go up to her room alone and for him to tend to his duties. This was their chance. The ningen was going to pass close to where they were standing, as they all got ready. They were trying to make her leave the castle and abandon her mate. It will be the greatest offense that she could do to her male. To leave her male behind meant that he was not powerful enough to protect her and she will bring dishonor to the lord’s family.

When they were sure that she could hear what they were saying they started their rant. “I can’t believe that Sesshoumaru had the nerve to mate that ningen. He must have known that if he mated her, their pups will never be accepted as heirs to the west.

A half-breed, that is what the pup will be called, it will be called a half-breed. Not human, not youkai, the pup will forever wonder the lands wondering where it belongs.”

Another female youkai continued the conversation, “That’s right they will never accept her as the next lady no matter how powerful she is. She is still a filthy ningen, not worth the dirt beneath a youkai’s feet. She is pathetic. She is not worthy to be mated to Sesshoumaru. We are more worthy than she is to be his mate.

“We better pray to Kami that she dies during the birthing of her first monstrosity. It doesn’t deserve to breathe the air we do. If it does survive the birthing process, we know that there will be others that will come to kill it. We all know that she won’t be powerful enough to protect it like a demoness, as you know we are very powerful when protecting our young. But humans hold no such abilities and it will be quickly killed. ”

The last female youkai took up the conversations from there. “You do know that Sesshoumaru picked another demoness to mate with before she showed up. They said that she was very beautiful and was very powerful. How could he choose to bring dishonor to his clan is beyond me. That ningen is a poor excuse for a female. If I were Sesshoumaru I would kill her and be done with it. He should find another female to mate so that his clan can stay in control of the west.”

The most hateful comments that Kagome heard, even though she was mated to Sesshoumaru, was that her pups will never be heirs to the Western Lands. They will be half-breeds that didn’t deserve to live and the youkai will praise Kami if she died trying to give birth to the first heir. The other comments hurt her as well, while she continued to listen to the rest of their conversations.

Tears started to form in her eyes and Kagome left the hall. ‘How could Sesshoumaru accept me as his mate, when he knew that our pups will not be accepted in his world? How could I give birth to this pup and have it know the hatred that the others hold for it? How could Sesshoumaru do this to me?’

Kagome continued to go towards her room. Her aura was flaring around her body as the tears continued to fall down her cheeks. She was upset and she had every right to be for the things she heard.

Once inside her room a powerful barrier went up to prevent anyone from entering her room. She didn’t want to be with anyone right now, not even her mate. She threw herself on her bed as she cried her heart out. “Why did this have to happen? Why can’t they accept our union and be happy for us? I can’t bring a life into this world knowing all the pain and suffering it’s going to be in. I can’t do it. It will be just like when I was growing up.

“My own father telling me that I was a freak, not worthy enough to be his daughter, and being worthless in his eyes. He wanted a son but instead he got a worthless daughter. I was a disappointment and nothing I did, proved to him that I was worthy to be his daughter. That’s why I was sent away. That’s why my father hated me.”

Tsuyoimaru heard the painful sobs of his little pup. He searched for her all over the castle. He finally found her in her room with a powerful barrier that will prevent anyone living, from entering her room. He, though, was not living, so he was able to pass through the barrier with ease to reach her.

Once inside the room he approached his little pup. He bent down and wrapped his arms around her as she fought to get free. He purred deep and rich to soothe her and it did. Soon she was sobbing in his hold as he asked, “My little pup, what has you so upset?”

Kagome was hiccupping in his arms as she said, “They don’t accept me. Even though I’m mated to Sesshoumaru, they still don’t accept me. Is it true what they said?”

Tsuyoimaru was confused at her question, “What did they say?”

Kagome breathed deeply, in order to calm her nerves. When she was calm enough she proceeded to tell him, “They said that even though I’m mated to the heir of the West that our pups will never inherit the West. They said because they will be half-breeds, they have no rights.”

Tsuyoimaru now understood what was upsetting her so as he tried to assuage her fears, “My precious little pup. You of all people should know how jealous those bitches can get. They are jealous because you mated Sesshoumaru and they couldn’t. They were not powerful enough to mate with him. Plus it was not them that the fates deemed worthy to be Sesshoumaru’s mate. You were chosen from all the females of the lands, both in the present and future to become his mate.

“Remember what I said my little pup, you will have to protect your pups like a demoness protects her pups. Do not let them win or the future for all youkai will end in this era. They have to see the errors of their ways. You are the chosen one, who was picked by the Kami's, to wield Jenjou. No one has the power to wield the heaven and earth sword.

“You must correct everything that is coming if you want a peaceful future. One filled with both ningen and youkai living together in harmony. That’s why you were destined to be with my Sesshoumaru. Together you will have the strength to fight those who pose a threat, and those that will not yield to Sesshoumaru laws, will be dealt with.

“So please calm yourself and enjoy the celebration with your mate. He is very proud to have you on his arm this night.”

Kagome knew that what Sesshoumaru’s Hiijiji was saying was true. She was brought back here for a reason and he just told her what that reason was. She should quit acting like a child and take her role as the new Lady of the West with pride and honor.

She was a miko, a powerful one at that, and they will bow down to her wishes and live together in peace. She will have to be strong for her mate and especially her pup. She will not let anyone hurt it.

She sat up straighter, turning to look fully at Tsuyoimaru, and said, “I understand what I must do, if those bitches think that they can get my Sesshoumaru, then they have another thing coming. They will respect my mate and I. Our children will rule one day and they will be accepted by all or it will be their death.”

Tsuyoimaru laughed as he hugged his little pup. She was a breath of fresh air and he loved her as his own. She will have to face more trials but he was confident that she could handle what is to come. But first she will have to clean house downstairs and this should prove to be very entertaining.

He looked down and noticed that she fell asleep in his arms. He turned and placed her on her futon so she could rest. She had plenty of excitement today and he had no doubt that she will have more by the end of the day.

He disappeared from the room, leaving her to rest. He went back to watching the party and noticed a female inu youkai standing off to the side watching his souson. He was amused, to say the least, if she thought that she was going to get his souson away from his mate. She maybe powerful, but she is not as powerful as his own mate.

He settled back to watch. When Kagome returned it should prove to be very interesting.

---oOo---

Kagome woke about an hour later. She felt refreshed, now that she was well rested. She remembered her conversation with Sesshoumaru’s Hiijiji and it was about time that she acted her station, as her mother would say. She giggled and got out of bed. It was time that she dressed in the special kimono that she had made for this occasion.

She went into her clothes box as she pulled out a box that was in there. She had this kimono especially made just for this night. She hoped that her mate would like it, because she was about to make all those youkai down there drool.

She pulled out a midnight blue kimono. It had crescent moons all over the fabric along with stars. She had a golden obi to go along with it. This kimono was different from the ones she was used to wearing. It had no hakama with it. It hugged her figure to perfection and its long sleeves almost touched the ground.

The front of the kimono came down enough to show some cleavage, but not too much or her mate will be angry. The golden obi was wide and thick, wrapping around her waist perfectly. She knew she will not be able to wear this again but for tonight it was worth it.

She went to the mirror and sat down. She took her hair and made some fancy braids that she neatly looped and tied to the back of her head. She had several braids this way with a tight bun on the back of her head. She put some jeweled combs in her hair, which her mate gave her. They had blue diamonds and they glittered in her hair.

She applied a little bit of makeup to enhance her eyes, and then she was done. She stood as she looked in the mirror at her reflection. She liked what she saw and hoped that her mate will appreciate what she has done.

Kagome squared her shoulders and held her head up high. It was now time to return to her mate and see what has been going on since she has been gone.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru was with his father the whole time that Kagome was resting. He had no wish to walk around and talk with these fools. The only one he was interested in talking to, was his mate, but she was not there at the moment.

Sesshoumaru felt that if he walked around and talked to these fools he will lose his temper and kill someone. He has been hearing for the last hour the nasty comments about his mate and he was slowly losing his patients with these fools. They were insulting his mate and his pup, his eyes were slowly tinting pink as he was losing his control, he didn’t know how much longer he will be able to put up with it without some blood being shed.

Then he felt a powerful aura coming towards the room and he knew it was his mate. No one had an aura like hers, he turned his attention to the doors as they opened. His breath hitched when he saw her. She was breath taking in the kimono she was wearing.

It showed all of her curves and the milky white skin between her breasts. It didn’t show off too much of what belonged to him, but it was just enough. His anger started to recede as her scent reached his nose and calmed his inner beast. He moved away from his father as he went towards his mate. He could not bear to be without her at his side.

He finally reached her as he took her hand and gently kissed the back of it. He took a step forward as he said, “You look breath taking my mate. No one has a prettier mate than I.”

Kagome smiled one of her beautiful smiles as she hooked her hand around his arm and allowed her mate to escort her around the room. All eyes were on Kagome, there was not a male in the room that was not panting hard for the female. She was breath taking and they all wanted what belonged to Sesshoumaru.

Sesshoumaru was not oblivious to all of this. He knew that these males desired his mate, but she was his and he will not give up what belonged to him. As if to emphasis his point, his twin tails wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer to his side.

Ayashiko and Inutaisho watched as Kagome came back to the party. They breathed a sigh of relief that she did come back. They were noticing how angry their son was getting at all the comments directed at his mate and pup. Her scent calmed their son and they were grateful for it.

When Inutaisho and Ayashiko saw her kimono they were impressed with the way it looked on her. She was a thing of beauty and Inutaisho couldn’t have been prouder. She was taking every males eyes, and with reason, when he saw his son approach her.

He could have sworn that his eyes tainted red for just a second before returning to their normal color. He saw him escort her back to his location as he looked at the three male lords in front of him. His pup hypnotized them all, he couldn’t help but smirk at their reaction to her.

Once Sesshoumaru was back at his side they continued with the current conversation.

Ayashiko was watching the other three female youkais. They were giving her pup an evil look and then she saw them pale. She looked out the corner of her eye as she saw her Musume with her eyes glowing white. It was a challenge that she was issuing to the three females from the other lands, that if they were strong enough to take her on, then she will have no problem killing them.

Their eyes quickly turned away from her pup and she settled down to watch what was going on. It seemed, to Ayashiko, that her pup has things well in hand. She just put the three most powerful females of these lands in their place. They will respect her or she will kill them, it was that simple.

The females stood silently by their male’s side as they continued to talk. Finally the entertainment was there as they set up and started to play their music. The conversation was quickly cut off, as all the females left their mates to go and prepare for the dance. Ayashiko grabbed her pup and followed after the other females.

Kagome was confused at what was going on, “Oka-san what is going on? Why did we leave our mates?”

Ayashiko pulled her pup off to the side so she could explain, “Kagome, it is tradition that the ruling females dance for their mates. It shows them that we are still attracted to them. I know that I didn’t explain this to you but I’m sure that you will do fine.”

Kagome paled at what Ayashiko just said to her. She didn’t know if she could dance the way they do. She came from the modern era and she has no knowledge of what to do. She calmed as she heard, “Kagome, all you have to do is watch the rest of us when we dance. It will give you an idea of what to do. You will be the last to dance so you will have time to see how it’s done.”

Kagome nodded her head as she watched the Lady of the South go first. The music started playing and she started her dance. Kagome noticed that everything she did was sharp and crisp. She never faltered in what she was doing.

Kagome continued to watch and she was very impressed with the way the ladies of the South, North, and East danced. Then came Ayashiko. She was truly amazing at the way she danced. She did some moves that she has not seen the other three do. She was very impressed with her Oka-san and hoped that she will be just as graceful as she is.

It was now time for Kagome to dance. She got an idea as she pulled two fans from her obi before walking out to the floor. She held one in each hand as she waited for the music to start. She was nervous about dancing in front of so many people, as she concentrated on what she had to do. She was standing there with her head bowed, her hands out straight in front of her, slightly in a crouch. That’s when the music started.

Kagome looked at her mate through her bangs, as she started her dance. She moved her arms with snapping movements as she held on to the sleeves of her kimono while she swiftly moved to the side and extended her arm. She snapped the fan open in her hand as she gently twisted her wrist from side to side.

She shifted her body fluidly to the other side and did the same thing with her other hand. She brought the fans together as she gently moved her right hand down in a show of flowing motion down her body. Slipping her finger into the hole that was in the fan, she began to spin them, making it look like it was round. The crescent moon on her fans became even bigger as she spun them. Her other hand slowly lowered the fan she was holding down the front of her body.

She brought both hands up and then snapped the fans together to form a bigger one. Slowly she moved it down across her body as she rotated her chest to the left then to the right behind the fan.

She brought her hands up to her right side as she snapped the fans apart and then flip the fan into her other hand. She snapped her hand up and caught the fan as she twisted the fans in her hand. She covered the lower portion of her face as she eyed her mate. She was looking into his hungry eyes as she continued to move with crisp movement to the side and then taking a few steps forward towards her mate.

She then fanned the front of her chest before she closed the fans. She bent her knees slightly, with her arms straight in front of her, as she finished her dance to her mate. She waited patiently when she felt warm strong hands lift her from her position as she was pulled into a tight hug.

---oOo---

Sesshoumaru was watching his mate dance for him. Her movements were sharp and elegant, that it made the rest of the females for the other lords envy her movements. She was the best dancer out of all of them and they all knew it.

He growled when she hid her face behind her fans and only let her eyes show. She was looking straight at him with those hungry eyes. He could see her lust for him as she finished her dance and waited.

He walked to where his mate stood and brought her into his embrace. He leaned his head down and said in her ear, “You were wonderful mate. You have out done every female mated to the other lords. You have shown them all who you belong to.”

Everyone saw as Kagome danced for her mate. Her dance was more graceful than the other females that danced for their mates. The other female youkais were jealous of their joining. But one demoness in particular was jealous beyond all control.

She has been watching the handsome youkai for a long time. She was an inu youkai but not a pure one. She was a mixed breed and the nobles looked down upon her. She has been eyeing Sesshoumaru for over a century, lusting after him, wanting to mate with him. But he never showed any interest in her.

She remembered the day that she introduced herself to him. She was dressed in a pretty pink kimono. Her hair was done up in a high ponytail and her makeup was perfect. She literally ran into to him that day.

----Flash Back---

She has been watching Sesshoumaru from a distance, while he walked through the middle of the village. The elders surrounded him as they conducted business in this area.

She waited for her opportunity and when she saw it she took it. She ran out from the side of a hut as she ran right into his person. She backed up as she bowed low to him and said, “Please forgive my insolence for running into you milord. This Ashi meant no offense.”

She smiled as she raised her eyes to look at him. She thought that she would see some warmth in his eyes and maybe lust, but what greeted her was a coldness that she has never seen before. He narrowed his eyes at her and sniffed. Then he turned around and walked away from her, like she was just some bug he just squashed.

He tore her heart that day and she vowed that she will get him as a mate.

---End of Flash Back---

She heard that the Lord of the Lands was introducing a new pup to be approved by the other lords for mating. She tried to attend back then, but without an invitation she could not even approach the castle.

Then the news spread that Sesshoumaru won the right to mate with a ningen. A filthy ningen won his heart, now he was mated to her. But that didn’t matter to her. She was going to get him one way or another, and then she will kill the filthy ningen.

She saw her chance, they were walking away from the dance area and going towards the area where drinks were being served. She noticed that the ningen walked off by herself, now he was alone. This will be her only opportunity to get him.

---oOo---

Kagome was tired from dancing for her mate, she told Sesshoumaru that she was tired and wanted a break. They turned and noticed everyone looking at them. Kagome blushed in embarrassment, while her mate ushered her toward the table that contained the refreshments.

Kagome excused herself from her mate as she said, “Please excuse me mate, I will return shortly.”

Sesshoumaru understood where she was going as he nodded his head to her. He watched her leave his side, her hips swaying from side to side as she walked. Then he heard someone speaking to him as he growled in anger. He wanted to be left alone.

He turned his attention away from his mate, as he looked over his shoulder at the one that wanted his attention. It was another bothersome female that wanted him to leave his mate for her. He turned fully around as his eyes narrowed in anger. This female will learn her place when it came to him.

Ashi looked at the handsome youkai standing in front of her. She ignored his growls of anger as she said, “We meet again Sesshoumaru-sama, and I must say that you look even more handsome than the last time we met.”

Sesshoumaru eyed the wench in front of him. She was an inu youkai but she was a mutt. She had mixed breeding in her line and will never find a mate among the nobles. She was forced to look for a mate in the lower levels of their society. He sniffed as he said, “What do you want wench?”

Ashi stood her ground and replied, “Why, what every other demoness wants Sesshoumaru, you.” She started her spells and incantations as she sought to trap Sesshoumaru in her web of spells. But what she didn’t expect was that Sesshoumaru was a lot stronger than she ever imagined. The star below his crescent moon was slowly starting to gain power. It was glowing brighter the more she sought to entrap him.

At that moment she heard a female’s voice, “What do you think you are doing with my mate?”

Ashi turned her attention to the ningen that returned. She smirked as she said, “What does it look like ningen. I want Sesshoumaru as my mate. You are not worthy enough to have him, so I will just kill you and then we can be mated.”

---oOo---

Kagome was coming back to the party. She had to go relieve herself so she left her mate briefly. Upon her return, she was surprised to find a female youkai trying to put a spell on her mate. It was a controlling spell that will bend him to her will.

Her anger flared as the mark on her forehead started to glow. She was feeding his mark and making it stronger so that the spell will not take hold. She stepped forward as she said, “What do you think you are doing to my mate?”

When Kagome heard the answer to her question she smirked. “You think that you are powerful enough to take my mate away from me? Ha! Think again fool. I will not step down from being his mate.

“The Kami’s brought us together for a reason. My destiny is tied to Sesshoumaru and no one else. We are meant to be together in this world and my job is to pass judgment on all those who hate others for who and what they are.”

Kagome’s eyes started to glow a pure white in color. Her powers were growing faster than she could control as she faced off with the demoness that wanted her Sesshoumaru. She brought her hand up as a purifying ball appeared there. She held it in her hand as she looked at the demoness.

“I pass judgment on you for your evil ways. Your blatant disregard for other species cannot be condoned. You are here by sentenced to death by my hand.” Kagome then turned her hand forward as she released the ball of purifying magic and it went straight for the demoness.

Ashi tried to move out of the way of the blast, but it just followed her wherever she went. She screamed her head off when it finally made contact and purified her to oblivion.

Everyone in the great hall witnessed what happened to the demoness who challenged Kagome for her mate.

Kagome then turned her attention to the ones that spoke ill of her and her pup. Her eyes glowed a pure white as she said in a commanding voice, “And for those of you who spoke ill of me, in saying that my pup will never inherit the West, think again. I will protect my pup and it will rule the West when the time comes.

“It will take its rightful place in this society and you will accept it. And to prove to you that I mean what I say, the three females that spoke ill of me, I pass judgment on you as well. You will not have the honor of meeting my pup once it is born.”

Again another ball of purifying magic appeared in her outstretched hand as it took off and went after the females that made her cry. The ball made contact with each of them as they screamed in pain before they were purified.

Everyone started to panic as they tried to leave the area. But a powerful barrier prevented them from leaving, they were forced to watch what Kagome will do to the females that spoke ill of her. They all felt the bite of her powers but soon a barrier was set up to protected them from her wrath.

It was her right to fight for her mate, and it was her right to put those females in their places for insulting her, they all had to witness the demise of the female youkais.

Inutaisho was worried about his little one, she has lost control, and could purify the pup that she carried. He turned his eyes toward his son as he yelled, “Sesshoumaru! You must calm Kagome down or she will purify your pup!”

Sesshoumaru fought off the controlling spell of the vile female but he was stuck in a barrier placed by his mate to protect him. He was flattered that she would protect him from a female but her barrier wouldn’t let him move. He concentrated on his youki as he broke his mate’s protection of him.

He felt the last strings of the barrier wear off, when he heard his father’s words. He turned toward his mate, making his way to her side as fast as possible. When he reached her he said, “Mate, calm yourself or you will hurt our pup.”

Kagome turned her eyes towards her mate. She heard his words as tears formed in her eyes. She lost control over her emotions, there was a chance that she has purified her pup, realization finally hit her as she calmed.

Tears were now going down her cheek as Sesshoumaru moved quickly to her side. He grabbed her in his arms as he said his incantation to put her to sleep. He caught her as she fell, picking her up in his arms. Sesshoumaru left the party, taking his mate upstairs to rest. On his way to his room he summoned the healer to come and check Kagome. He had to know if the pup was gone.

When Sesshoumaru and Kagome left the grand audience chamber Inutaisho let his anger fly. “Never in all my years, have I ever been ashamed of being a youkai. You all discuss me. That pup has done nothing but help the people of this land and you all look at her with hatred in your eyes. What has she done to any of you? To my knowledge she has not hurt a youkai that didn’t deserve it. But you turn your nose up at her because she is a ningen.”

The Eastern Lord, Yugawara, turned to Inutaisho and said, “When she produces a pup, it will be a hanyou, a half breed. It can never be heir to the West or you will lose everything. The law clearly states that it must be a youkai that rules the lands, not a hanyou.”

All the other lords agreed with what the Eastern Lord said, they will not allow a half-breed to inherit the west.

Inutaisho took a deep breath and said, “Who says that she will produce a hanyou? She could very well produce a full-blooded youkai. You don’t know until the pup is born.”

The other lords looked on in shock as Kasumigoaka asked, “What do you mean that she can produce a youkai pup? How is that even possible?” Kasumigaoka heard the other lords agree with him on how the ningen could produce an inu youkai pup.

Inutaisho thought about his question and answered, “I have an idea on how this will happen, I have no proof of it ever happening before in our history. But if it comes to pass then I will recite the legend were it comes from. I will have to wait until Kagome’s pup is born to see if this legend is real.

“But still the fact remains that your own mates were giving Kagome dirty looks and challenging her openly, until my pup challenged them back. When they saw the power she held they backed down. They know that they cannot fight her and win, or you all would be looking for new mates. I have no doubt that Kagome will kill them if they were to challenge openly.

“Plus I will not stand for someone challenging the females of my pack. It is a direct insult to me since I’m the alpha and current ruler. If you want to challenger her then I must approve it. I suggest that you clean up your own house if you want to go by the rules. To challenge Kagome openly without going through me means that you want to fight me.”

The other ruling lords backed down since he did have a point. Their females cannot challenge the ningen unless he gives his approval. They will have to go through him for a challenge to be given. Their mates have embarrassed them in front of the ruling lord and they will have to speak to them about it.

Inutaisho watched as the other ruling lords back down from what he was saying. They knew better than to challenge him in a fight. Then he continued with what he was saying, “If I were you I will heed Kagome’s warnings. She is the only one, which I know of, that can carry out that threat. You have no idea how powerful she really is. What happened here tonight was just a very small portion of her powers. She will not hesitate to pass judgment on any of you and I for one will not stop her.”

The youkais were all in shock from what the Western Lord said. No one knew Kagome was this powerful. Her powers were so great that she protected all those in the area and killed the ones she was after. Only a very powerful being could have such control over their own powers.

The female youkais were rethinking what they wanted to do with the ningen. If this is just a small sample of her true powers, then they were very lucky that they didn’t die for what they have done.

The party broke up after that, Ayashiko rushed out of the Grand Audience Chambers to see how her pup was fairing. Plus, she had to know if Kagome purified her own pup or did she protect it.

---oOo---

This is the end to another chapter. I guess Kagome put all those demoness’s in their place when she killed a few of them.

I proofed another chapter for your reading enjoyment because its my way of saying sorry for making you wait for so long. But you will have to wait for the next chapter because I need to see what I’m doing.

I hope that I got everything straight in this chapter, if you find spelling errors or grammatical errors please forgive me for them.

The attacks are not over with yet. There are youkai who are looking to see if they can get their hands on Kagome. Sesshoumaru will have a harder time trying to protect her as time goes by.

Miroku is found and brought back to the castle to face the Inu Lords wrath. Join me in the next chapter to see what happens.

Until the next time!

Ja ne!