I See You [Sesshomaru]

Chapter 12

        She had never been inside this room before descending the small set of stairs in place to the main floor. All chatter in the grand room had silenced and after a few moments, Akiko spoke lowly,

        "Is there a gathering at all?"

        "There is," the wolf answered just as quietly, "but they are too busy staring at you."

        Stepping off the last step the music in the room started up once more, hearing the familiar sounds of the traditional instruments from the Feudal Era. The recordings the young woman would listen to in her era did not do them justice knowing she could have listened to them all night long without interruption. As Tobi guided her through the room they finally came to a stop in an empty area. Those nearby stared at the large animals in tow some sniffing the air with furrowed brows detecting the hint of human on the young woman before them. Though none approached. "This is going to be one long night."

        "And it's only just started," Aisu pointed out. "Here comes Sesshomaru. Behave. You're no longer sparing."

        She had learned rather quickly the demon enjoyed trying to rile her up with his harsh words. Though luckily Akiko didn't fall prey to what he said like Inuyasha would, meaning her actions would not be as rash and hasty. Still, there had been a few times when the young woman wished to slap him across the face.

         "I will if he does," Akiko stated.

        Both wolves smirked. "Spoken like a true Ice Queen." The young woman smiled. "Be aware the lord is not alone."

        "An acquaintance of his?" Because they knew he refused to refer to anyone as a friend.

        "Unfortunately no. A main reason he is not fond of gatherings, whether they be his own or another's, is it poses as a headache for him." Akiko's brows furrowed. "He's a sought out bachelor among demons."

        "I'm surprised he wouldn't enjoy it. For most men it does well for their egos."

        "Careful," came his monotone voice. "You are a guest, I can easily see to it you are not."

        "Then that would mean I would be free to leave." Neither spoke for a moment. "I enjoy your taste in music. Never thought I would ever hear the originals myself."

        He was about to speak when a voice interrupted them, "Lord Sesshomaru." The females had remained at a distance upon realizing who the dog demon was approaching, many wary of the large wolves. But one seemed brave enough to finally step forward. "You have yet to introduced your friend." His brow twitched, which went unnoticed by the woman. She sounded regal, full of authority. But there was something about her that did not sit well with Akiko.

        "Ralin of the Southern Mountains, this is... Akiko, the Ice Queen of the North," Sesshomaru answered. Akiko nodded slightly in greeting.

        "I thought you were nothing more than a myth becoming lost in time. It appears maybe we were wrong to assume such a thing." There was a beat of silence that passed between them as the demon sized up the stranger before her. "It's nice to meet you. Lord Sesshomaru would you like to dance?" The dog demon said nothing, only to turn and lead Ralin over to the dance floor.

        "What are you waiting for?" Aisu suddenly asked when alone once more.

        "What?" Akiko questioned in confusion.

        "Why did you allow them to leave?"

        The young woman cocked a brow. "I wasn't aware it was my job to keep him here in the first place. Besides, it's his event. He can do as he pleases." Tobi's head nodded in agreement. "What demon is Ralin?"