'King of Curses'

41

They both step through a large Tori gate that acted as the entrance to the Inari clans property. Tiny lanterns and candles, light up the pavement towards the countless houses scattered around the large property.

Each house belonged to a family or an Inari clan resident that works under them.

To outsiders, they were known as the first Kitsune clan, established back in the 8th century.

Lady Inari herself was once it's owner, until her death. It seperated the large clan, diverging itself into many smaller clans.

"Lord Seiichi?" A woman calls from the side.

In hand she held a few vegetables and a basket stacked with carrots.

"What are you... you're back so soon?" She continues to say.

Seiichi glances towards the voice, creating eye contact with the woman with white long hair.

"I don't mean to barge in unannounced, but I wish to speak with the elders." He says.

Her large eyes widen, expecting the worse information from him. He rarely visits the elders, mostly because he hates it. So the only reason Seiichi would make an audience with them, is if something has happened to (y/n).

"...of course, um... Is-ah, is she alright?" She stutters, not wanting to talk about her.

"No...let the others know I'm here by the way." He replies, walking off on her.

She clenched her hands around the basket, wanting a little more time with him, but shakes away her feelings.

"Yes, lord Seiichi." She bows.

I know he's probably thinking about her so much, and I know that this probably isn't the right thing to think about, but...shouldn't he think about finding a wife? He is the clan head.

The woman watches his back trail further into the estate, while her mind ran wild with thoughts.

I've known him for so long, and even watched him fall in love with that girl; however, with his duty as a clan head, he must wed another Kitsune to carry his blood...Seiichi? How do you feel about this?

Seiichi passed many Kitsune who either bowed as he past, or sneered at his presence.

Despite their awful comments and snobby looks, Seiichi had learnt to ignore it. He new they were incompetent, and knew they wouldn't be the rich noble Kitsune if it wasn't for his leadership.

The large castle in front of him was more grand then any other castle in the Yokai world. It stood high and proud, showing all the importance of such a clan.

He proudly walked past the large fox guards, that stood at the edge of the bridge. Neither of them glared at him or even glanced his way.

Like stone statues, they stood tall and observant of any threats to come.

A man on the other side of the bridge awaited his master and bowed, greatfully.

"Lord Seiichi, it's nice to see you in good health again. Like you said, I informed the elders of everything and are up to date...but um; however, I did not expect such a sudden return." He looks up, just now taking notice of the child beside him.
"Oh...ah-and with a Yokai child?" He gave a wirey smile, unsure to be polite or rude to the intruder.

"I'm sorry to show up like this so suddenly, Hibiki, but something quite important must be spoken to the elders." He says, walking past Hibiki towards the castle entrance.

"Huh? Bu-of course, Lord Seiichi; however, I don't mean to be rude. Another Yokai that is not a Kitsune cannot enter inariyama." The kitsune bows, knowing Seiichi would be burdened by the comment.