InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Ghost of Love ❯ chapter 14 ( Chapter 14 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

Inuyasha was making a hasty retreat down the hallway. He couldn't have dropped Kagome off at Sumire's room soon enough –now he needed some cooling down and quickly. Nothing that a meeting with his ice-cold brother couldn't accomplish. Kami that woman was getting more and more appealing by the second. Those big doe eyes that were so pure and innocent. That soft body that had filled out in all the right places. That raven hair speckled with sparkling drops of water. So lost in his thoughts he was surprised when he ran into something. He quickly realized that something was a person.

“Sorry,” he quickly offered noticing he had knocked a servant woman into the hallway wall. Offering her a hand, he was fully prepared for the rejection to come. After all, even a youkai as a servant still would loath a hanyou like himself.  He was surprised when a slender hand grasped his.

“Thank you,” the woman smiled shyly, her large eyes meeting his for a moment before she continued on her way.

Inuyasha watched her retreat until he could no longer see her form. He was puzzled by the interaction he had just had with her. If he hadn't been mistaken, the moment before she adverted her gaze those eyes of hers had held an odd reflection. If he didn't know better he would have said they held lust.

“Ridiculous,” he muttered to himself as he continued on his way to Sesshoumaru's study. No youkai female would be caught dead with a hanyou. He smiled then because even if one did turn his way, not a single youkai woman could ever match Kagome. His little miko was in a league of her own.

He had barely paused in front of the study before the door slide open. Instantly he recognized the small youkai at the door.

“That will be all Jaken.” Sesshoumaru didn't even bother to look up as he dismissed his second in command.

Inuyasha caught the bitter look directed at him before Jaken disappeared behind the door. He couldn't help but grin at the annoying toad's reaction to him. Some things never changed.  Sesshoumaru continued silently with his work so Inuyasha took a moment to look over the study. Numerous books lined one wall, the others boasting well drawn maps and battle inspired art. Everything had its place in this neatly organized room. A large window created a beautiful, naturally lit environment.

At the far end, Sesshoumaru sat behind a long table, scrolls and ink jars strategically arranged around him. Inuyasha had to admit that even sitting as he studied scrolls Sesshoumaru was an intimidating creature. He was perfection in all ways, from the way he looked to the home he kept. His attitude, abilities and habits focused on that perfection. The clean lines and organization in his study boasted an uncanny resemblance to all things that encompassed his very being.  

“Come over here, Inuyasha.” The usual demanding tone came from him, even as his eyes remained transfixed on a particular piece of paper.

Inuyasha didn't hide the look of annoyance on his face. Why bother? His brother hadn't taken even a moment to acknowledge him properly. Despite his displeasure, he made his way over to see what on that paper had his brother so occupied.

“A rather unusual messenger brought me this. I assume you passed her in the hall?” Sesshoumaru finally looked up, casually handing the paper over to Inuyasha. His eyes were cold and calculating when they met with Inuyasha. “A word of caution brother, she is most devious. Currently I can not tell what her intentions are but I could smell deceit upon her when she passed me this letter.”

Inuyasha instantly recalled the youkai woman who had looked at him with seduction and lust in her gaze. He suddenly didn't like where this was heading. Just what was a woman like her doing delivering a message to Sesshoumaru? Curiosity piqued he began reading the letter.  His face developed into a deep frown when he realized what it was. A military command issued to troops. Brief and cryptic as it was he was able to determine that it was orders to seek an item of importance at a specific location. The hints given were vague at best and to just what and where he couldn't be sure.

“What is this?” Inuyasha glanced at his brother before reading the information over again. Whatever these people were looking for, they were planning on striking today. Why would the woman deliver this to Sesshoumaru?

“I'm not sure. However,” Sesshoumaru pulled over a detailed map and pointed out a location, “this is where they are planning to hit.”

Inuyasha scanned the map his eyes taking in every detail. “That's days away from here. What is she hoping to accomplish? There's no way we would be able to reach that point from here. It's not even in your domain.”

His eyes passed over the map again before recognition took hold. Dread filled his very core when he realized just where that little dot on the map was really pointing at. He double checked other places on the map just to make sure but in the end he had come to the same conclusion.

“Sesshoumaru, that's the island I found Sumire on.”  Inuyasha watched as Sesshoumaru took in the information. The reaction was not what he expected, not a single flicker of emotion sparked in those eyes. Despite being joined to the girl, the Taiyoukai seemed to have no feelings at all for her. None beyond his call of duty however.  

“That is indeed interesting information. That woman reeks of a son of the leader of the southern lands. What is she seeking to accomplish? No doubt this order was issued by that man. He is in charge of his father's military.”

“Sesshoumaru, aren't you a little worried? What if what he is searching for is Sumire? He may have found out about her or if he hasn't the possibility of him knowing once he has attacked the villagers is very high. She could be in danger.” Inuyasha couldn't believe this guy. His mate was facing possible threat and he was sitting here not the least bit concerned.

“What does it matter if he knows? She is my mate now and that is all there is to it. She is safe so long as she remains behind these walls. I have no reason for concern.”  The Taiyoukai took the message from Inuyasha and began to once again contemplate its cryptic message. “I am most curious to determine the goals of that woman. I do not like such devious creatures behind my walls unless I know their intentions.”

Inuyasha couldn't help but stare in disbelief at his brother. He had always known him to be heartless but come on! Things were not going the way he thought. He had hoped for Sumire's sake that his brother would gain a better appreciation for the fact he had a mate. Perhaps develop some feelings for the girl Inuyasha had come to care for like a sister.

“That woman likely will hide amongst the servants. She didn't even bother to hide her lust from me. No doubt she will try to worm her way into my bed to get the information she is looking for.” Sesshoumaru looked up at Inuyasha once again. “The same goes for you.”

“I beg your pardon?” Inuyasha looked back at him in shock. His own reaction resulting in a annoyed sigh from his brother.

“Women are deceptive creatures Inuyasha. Most would easily spread their legs for a man if it meant bettering their own position in the world. Do not be fooled by those who actively seek your affection. That woman would just as soon use you to reach her goal as me. More so since she is a spy.”  Sesshoumaru finally set aside his papers and sat back from the table.

Standing he made his way to a window and gazed into the gardens outside. “Nothing good will come from her meddling. The state of affairs in this country is not as well as it once was.  Beyond my borders, conflicts are arising everywhere. In the South, the leader's own sons vie for his lands and his power. Internal disputes are causing a great deal of unrest in the people. Though my lands are untouched by such trivial matters they won't remain that way. The position I shall take depends on who takes power in the other lands.”

Sesshoumaru turned towards Inuyasha. “Should the Southern Lord's youngest son gain power, we will be at war. Currently he is the general of the South's military. Everyone is well aware of his hunger for power. I am certain that if he succeeds he will not be satisfied with just the South. His greedy eyes will be set upon expansion.”

“If that happens... ,” Inuyasha paused as full comprehension of matters at hand registered. Everything he had come to know in these lands would be at risk. His friends, Sango and Miroku, would be threatened by youkai and human armies. The aging couple would be no match for the fight to come. More importantly, Kagome would be in harm's way. Fat chance he would sit idly by. “If that happens I'll be damned if I'll just let that bastard walk his way in here.”

An uncommon smile passed over Sesshoumaru's lips. “I'm glad to hear that. Father's blood truly runs in your veins Inuyasha. You would make a most valuable ally.”

Inuyasha watched as Sesshoumaru went to the book shelf. He reached behind some books to pull out an ornate wooden box. With the small wooden box in hand, he moved to the corner of the room where a larger box was sitting. Gathering it up as well he returned to Inuyasha. Setting them on the table he pushed them over to his brother, a gesture of offering.

Carefully Inuyasha picked up the smaller box, opening the lid he was surprised when he discovered the contents. Carefully woven silk laid in two patches, each patch adorned with Sesshoumaru's family crest. The stacked hexagons that shielded delicate flowers, were hand crafted to perfection. These patches were intended to be used as patterns. Patterns for clothing makers when crafting clothing for nobility. Puzzled he set the first box aside and opened the second.

Inside was a beautiful blood red haori. One that rivaled his brother's snow white one.  Again Sesshoumaru's family crest was stitched on the sleeves. Inuyasha ran his fingers over the material, in wonder at how beautiful the texture felt on his skin. Clearly it was constructed from the finest of silk, however, he was surprised at how thick the cloth was. It seemed stronger and heavier than regular cloth.

“That was our father's family crest, I claim it now as my own.” Sesshoumaru reached into the box, pulling out the red material. “It holds the same powers as your fire rat haori. The difference is the craftsmanship. Hair fibers from the fur of a fire rat were skillfully woven together with the strongest and finest silk. I believe our Father had this commissioned when he learned your mother was carrying you. His intention was likely to present it to you once you reached adulthood, much the same as when he presented me with mine.”

Inuyasha was beside himself. The fact that Sesshoumaru had kept such an item despite his former hatred for him was astounding. The other was that this haori had been created just for him by his father. A testament to the life he may have had if his father remained alive.  A father's love for his child had been woven into the very fibers of this cloth.

“What do you think about taking your place as our Father's son?” Sesshoumaru questioned, holding out the haori to Inuyasha.

Inuyasha had never imagined this moment would every come. Yet here it was. He was being offered a place in his father's legacy by a man who had once wished him dead. By adorning this family crest he would take his position along side his brother. A place that normally only a full blood youkai could hold. He would be foolish to think this path easy though. Despite his brother finally accepting him, few others would. There would be great hardship for him.

He grinned as he reached out and accepted the robe. Hardship? Feh! Suffering had made him into the man he was today. Hardship had allowed him to make friends and meet Kagome. This was after all, the path he was most used to. This was the path he had always chosen.

Today he had found something he had always longed for. Acceptance for who he was and for the blood that ran through his veins. A place in this world where he should have belonged and a chance to forge his own path.

Kagome entered Sumire's room nervous about what she would find. The last time she had seen the girl her body had been racked with convulsions. The young miko drew in a heavy breath, filling her chest to the brim before slowly exhaling. Feeling slightly calmer she proceeded slowly. Her soft calls to the girl had echoed in the room, none of them answered. Near the back of the room was the bed where the still sleeping youkai lay.

Kagome thought she looked peaceful at least. Sumire's breaths were quiet but they were strong and steady. Reaching out she carefully brushed aside some stray hair that had been clinging to the woman's face. Hesitantly she placed two fingers on the pulse point on Sumire's neck. She didn't want to wake her, but Kagome was anxious to check Sumire for any lingering injuries. When the female didn't stir at all the miko continued with her ministrations.

Sitting on the bed, Kagome reached into a small pouch she had brought with her. From it she pulled a container of homemade ointment. Sumire may be youkai and have incredible healing abilities but even with those, Kagome was certain the woman's muscles would be sore and aching. Meticulously she looked over the woman's body. Massaging each area with the balm after each inspection, dedicated to one area at a time to ensure her friend was healthy.

An hour later, her hands cramped from their work, she tucked Sumire back under the covers. Then she added another blanket as the heat would increase the effectiveness of the medicinal ointment. Satisfied with both her patient and her own work Kagome pulled a chair up beside the bed.

She thought it strange as she sat there staring at her friend. Strange how the girl had become a woman in the blink of an eye. It wasn't that odd to be looking at her now though, as Sumire had covered herself the majority of the time she had spent with her. Kagome was no more used to this new appearance than when she had revealed herself a few days before. Perhaps it was just the memories of what had transpired at the ceremony that was causing Kagome this unusual feeling. She was certain that it would take a very long time for the nightmarish images of Sumire's suffering to fade in her memory.

Her eyes had become transfixed on the long pale hair that trailed across the bed and over the edge. She reached for those strands, curious of the hair that was so unique yet similar to Inuyasha's. Her fingers snagged the moment she tried to pull them through. Frowning she looked around for a brush. Spying one she quickly reached for it and started to work.

Evidently the long locks had been knotted for awhile. She began to giggle as she methodically worked on one section at a time. Somehow, the tangles matched the tomboyish attitude Sumire had had when they first met. Her hair had been tied back in a way that permitted freedom. Apparently, she hadn't been overly vain about her hair as it certainly wouldn't be in the condition it was.

An image of Sumire screaming in pain and thrashing about caused Kagome's hands to stop. She had to close her eyes and draw in another deep breath to calm herself. With shaking hands she proceeded. It was more likely the tangles were a result of that night. Pulling the brush through slowly she tried to focus on the task at hand. It was taking all she had to push back the emotion that threatened. Never again did she wish to witness such a horrific display.

Kagome let her mind go blank as she worked the knots out of that pale hair. She lost track of time but with each stroke she felt herself  reaching a calmer state. It wasn't until she heard Sumire's voice that she broke free of the hypnotic state.

“Mmmm, that feels nice,” the girl yawned. Kagome smiled when Sumire's face scrunched up, “but what is that awful smell.”

“Sumire-chan! I am so glad that you are awake. How do you feel?” Kagome set the brush down and quickly found some extra blankets to help prop the youkai up with.

“Hmmm, now that you say that, I feel horrible.” Sumire groaned as she shifted.

“Try not to move too much. That smell is the ointment I rubbed on your muscles. It should help with the soreness and stiffness you are experiencing. Try to keep the blankets on Sumire-chan, the heat helps the ointment work.” Kagome helped Sumire to elevate her head and shoulders so she was in a semi-sitting position. “Get comfortable Sumire-chan, I will get the guard outside to notify Sesshoumaru-sama and to send for some food and tea.”

Kagome hurried of to instruct the guard who had been posted outside the room. Then she returned to Sumire's side –though it was good to see the girl awake, it was disheartening to realize how weak she still remained. Her motherly nature kicking in as she fussed with the blankets around the young youkai.

“Kagome-chan, the blankets are fine.” Sumire smiled at the miko who was obviously worried over her. “I'm sorry Kagome for making you worry about me.”

“You're sorry? Sumire-chan, if it wasn't for me you wouldn't be like this right now.” Kagome felt her eyes misting as her own shame tore at her heart. “I even knew what was likely to happen and I still agreed to it...”

“Kagome!” Sumire interrupted before the miko could continued. “You did what you thought you had to. Truthfully Kagome-chan, it was just a matter of time before it would happen. I couldn't run from this fate forever. You know, I could feel you trying to help me Kagome-chan, I felt the warmth of your powers. Thank you for your kindness.”

Kagome didn't like the look of defeat that had flickered in Sumire's eyes even as she smiled bravely. She had skipped past her own resolution so quickly and seemingly wished to distract Kagome with her words of praise. Kagome was about to question Sumire about her thoughts when the door slid open.

“Excuse me,” a short and rather portly old female youkai entered. She brought with her a tray of tea and food and set them on a table. With a  polite nod she once again excused herself from the room.

“Thank you,” Kagome acknowledged the elderly woman before she left them alone once again. Rising from her seat she tended to the tea, pouring each of them a cup. Silently she returned to her bedside perch and offered Sumire the tea.

No words passed between them as they sipped their drinks, both lost in their own thoughts. They both started when the door again slid open and Sesshoumaru entered. He was closely followed by Inuyasha.

“Glad to see you finally decided to wake up sleepy head.” Inuyasha smiled brightly at both Kagome and Sumire. It was wonderful to see both of his girls awake and healthy. Sumire still looked weak but she was awake and smiling.

“Inuyasha,” Kagome giggled when he came over and ruffled her hair. He casually sat on the bed next to Sumire, grinning sheepishly at the both of them.

“Well, you two sure gave me a scare. New rules! You both aren't allowed to do something so foolish ever again. Otherwise you will both be my personal servants for a month!” Inuyasha smiled wider at the looks of annoyance on both the girls faces. Jokes aside he hadn't felt this relieved in a long time. The woman he loved was alive and healthy and beside her was a woman he had come to think of as family, although not well, alive at least.

His smile faded when he turned back towards his brother, Sesshoumaru's ice cold mask hadn't budged. He stood as rigid as ever, barely acknowledging the women before him. Inuyasha didn't think the Taiyoukai even bothered to look at his mate before he began addressing the miko beside her.

“You shall see to her well being miko,” Sesshoumaru commanded.

“Pardon me for my boldness Sesshoumaru, but don't you think that perhaps you should be taking an active roll in her care?” Kagome fired back, all too familiar with what the Taiyoukai was planning. She had no problem taking care of Sumire but there needed to be more to the couple's relationship.

“That is exactly what I am doing.”

Kagome had to wonder at the almost confused expression that briefly crossed his face. Instantly she knew that no matter what she said currently, the Taiyoukai simply wouldn't have a clue about what she meant. The man was far more 'love challenged' than Inuyasha had ever been. The easiest way to get him to realize what she meant was to create situations for romance to blossom. Playing matchmaker with these two could be one of the most hardest things she had to do yet. Lucky for her she was full of ideas.

“Of course you are, I meant I am going to need your assistance. Sumire-chan would benefit from the fresh air and sunshine. I need you to carry her out to the gardens.” Kagome smiled to herself at her quick thinking.

“Inuyasha will do that.” Sesshoumaru fired back, an impatient look of annoyance forming in his brows.

“Well he is more than capable, however I think that would be unwise considering she is now your mate. I can't imagine what your followers would think if your mate was being carted around by another man. Now, I realize that you are very busy Sesshoumaru-sama but it wouldn't take more than a few moments of your time.” Kagome had hit the nail on the head with that one. Sesshoumaru was a man who required strict control over his subjects. A chance for them to question his leadership was one he wasn't likely to take.

“Very well miko, you may send for me when you wish to do this.” Sesshoumaru eyes once again skipped over Sumire and trained upon his brother. “I will see you again tomorrow morning. We have reports to go over.”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah. Bright and early, I got it already.” Inuyasha rolled his eye's as Sesshoumaru turned and vanished out the door. He heaved a heavy sigh of frustration once he was left alone with the women. Tomorrow would come far too soon. Being involved in the working of his father's land was going to one big headache. It felt wonderful to finally be a part of his father's legacy but after spending so many hours with his brother learning about what it took to manage such an undertaking, he was beginning to doubt this attachment. He was better suited to doing things his own way, unbridled by the rules and obligations that came with such status.  

“Inuyasha, stop thinking, it makes you ugly.” Sumire laughed slightly as she poked fun at the hanyou.

“Feh, I'm a genius at work.” His eyes softened when he looked at her. Sumire's skin was too pale and she looked more and more exhausted with every moment they remained. “Seriously though Sumire, do your best to stay out of trouble? I have my hands full looking after Kagome. If you get into trouble, she'll be the first to follow. I might just go crazy if that happened.”

“I'll try my best.”

Kagome watched her friend carefully and noticed right away when the woman was having difficulty keeping her eyes open. Her body still needed more time to recuperate. “Sumire-chan get some rest. I'll come in the morning to check on you, alright?”

Beside her, Inuyasha took her cue and stood to leave. Kagome adjusted Sumire's bed, lying her flat again and tucking the covers tightly around her. She offered her a weak smile before closing her eyes. Kagome could hear her steady breaths before she had even reached to door.  

“Well that wasn't quite what I expected. I had hoped for more between them.” Kagome thought back to Sesshoumaru's stiff words and overall uncaring attitude. Now she understood why Asami-sama had insisted they stay. The way things looked she was going to be playing cupid for awhile.

“Yeah, tell me about it. Now, before you get looking like Sumire, you need to get some rest as well.” Inuyasha took a no nonsense approach with his miko, she would run herself ragged if he let her. He could already see the signs of stress becoming visible on her. Her skin was pale, dark circles under her eyes and a slump in her shoulders. She needed rest as badly as her friend. Tomorrow was another day and the way things were going, it was likely to be as crazy as the last few.

After making sure she was safely stowed away in the confines of her own room he retreated to his. Tonight there were no pleasantries between them just strict orders for her to rest. She was so worn out he had basically led her into her room and pushed her towards her bed. He had barely got her in there before her eyes began to look heavy. Despite the many things he wished to discuss with her, Inuyasha left her to get some rest.

The day's happenings weighed heavily on his mind. The offering from his brother, the seductive spy and the information on that scroll. So many things he wanted to run by Kagome just to get her perspective. That would have to wait for another day though. Not only that but when was he going to have time to simply spend with Kagome? He had the added stress of the more obvious topics that needed to be dealt with.

He hadn't the chance to even go over the past with Kagome. He wanted to know just what had happened to her inside the jewel. He needed to know what happened to her in the year she had returned. He could see that the same blue eyes that had once shined with such vibrant innocence and faith had lost some of their luster. No doubt this world was much crueler than the one she had known.

His only condolence was that she had been lucky enough to have been reunited with Miroku and Sango. The couple surely had made things easier on her. But the times they lived in where not the carefree days of adventure and wandering they had known twenty years before. True, those days had been filled with danger but they were also filled with fun and freedom.

Miroku and Sango had responsibilities and commitments now – to their family, their community and to their religion. Their role in Kagome's life would have been much different upon her return. What had his precious miko been exposed to? Who's lives had she impacted and who had impacted hers? No doubt she had many questions of her own.

To say he was disappointed at the inability to reconnect with her was an understatement. They say good things come to those who wait but he never had been the patient kind. He had waited long enough already and she had been with him for days but they had spent no real time together. The little time he had gotten her alone she had been too exhausted to delve into such important discussions. He was fast becoming frustrated with the whole situation. Throw in the new developments and he was losing his composure.

With a heavy sigh he lay down, certain the night was going to be a long one as he sorted some of his problems out.

A/N: Thank you all for patiently waiting for this chapter. Thanks to those who nominated and voted for my fic and I am thrilled to see it rank 3rd in the IYFG awards. As always, Kokoronagomu, you are the greatest beta ever! Last but not least, thank you very much for reading this and taking the time to leave me reviews. It means the world to me that you do that much for me! Hope you all enjoyed this chapter.

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