InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Peace Treaty ❯ Preparations ( Chapter 27 )

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

Bottom of Form

Kagome strode into the infirmary, hoping Gina would be within and able to distract her from her nervousness. The other three Houses of Taiyoukai were arriving in a few days, and the entire manor was abuzz with activity and preparation. Sesshoumaru was so busy, he left that morning without a tumble between the sheets, though, Kagome reflected, they had been pawing at each other the day before with such frequency, a few hours without her legs wrapped around his waist was tolerable. Almost. She missed him already, finally understanding what it all meant. She no longer focused on the difference between the mark and love. For us, she realized, they are the same.

Lady Seiobo had come to their rooms earlier that day, checking Kagome's wardrobe, making sure she had enough formal wear, and issuing threats of dire consequences should any more clothing end up unwearable. “Tell my son, I'll castrate him myself, if he can't show reasonable restraint,” she had warned. Her fussing made Kagome anxious, which only increased when she went into other parts of the manor. She had stopped in the kitchens to see Shippou, but the servants there were all so busy, the kitsune only had time for the briefest of visits. Everywhere servants were running around, airing out rooms, cleaning, changing mats, and the general chaos put her more on edge. The House of the West had been entertaining the main Inuyoukai families, exacting fealty, for over a week. Kagome had met some of them before she and Sesshoumaru left for Nantai and had committed no serious breach in protocol, but still, she was insecure about her place in this important affair of state.

“Kagome, I'm so happy to see you!” greeted Gina, upon seeing her friend, “You and Sesshoumaru left dinner so abruptly last night, we didn't have a chance to talk.”

“Yes, sorry I left so quickly. We had some…unfinished business.” Kagome blushed a little remembering the exact nature of that business.

She had been waiting for him after visiting the graves, when he stormed into their room, demanding she remove the demeaning mark on his neck. She, of course, couldn't resist badgering him, asking if he was certain he didn't want a matching one on the other side. They had a short argument, death threats were exchanged, and he removed the beads, choking out an apology. She healed the bruise, but was unprepared for the effect the act would have on both of them. Laying three fingers, vivid pink, to the side of this neck, covering most of the discoloration, her energy flowed into his tissues. He gasped involuntarily at the warmth and pulse of her power and the intimate connection. The broken blood vessels receded, and clear, perfect skin returned. The kiss afterward was fierce, with all the promise of the connection deepening. That is until they realized how late the time was and hurried down the corridors to dinner.

The meal had been a family affair. Lady Seiobo was pleased to see Nantai had not caused Kagome to suddenly forget all the Youkai social norms she'd been taught; General Inutaisho was relieved Kagome held no ill feelings over the regrettable incident between them; Gina and Azami smiled discreetly at one another, noticing Kagome and Sesshoumaru were completely distracted by whatever they were doing to each other under the table. Excusing themselves immediately after the meal, they barely made it to their rooms before clothes and propriety were abandoned.

“So all is well between you two?” Gina asked slyly.

Kagome's voice was happy and hopeful. “Oh Gina, so much has happened! I hardly know where to start.”

“At the beginning. How did you find Nantai? I've never been, though the General dragged Seiobo there a year after mating. She said it was deplorable, and they weren't even there in the winter.”

“I liked it,” Kagome answered honestly. “A bit rough around the edges, and we weren't there very long, but everyone was kind.” She paused and smiled. “There were Youkai with Ningen ancestry there.”

Gina remembered Kagome's concerns about potential offspring. “Ah yes, I forgot about that. A rather large population, isn't it? What were they like?”

“They definitely didn't seem human, but they weren't exactly like the Youkai there either. I was just relieved to see they weren't born cross-eyed or missing limbs,” she admitted.

Gina laughed, “Were you really afraid of that?”

“Oh, let's just say the reassurance was appreciated. I must confess though, the idea of having a baby is no longer quite so…unwelcome.”

Gina was relieved. She felt invested in Kagome and Sesshoumaru's future. “And tell me how you came to stop worrying about Sesshoumaru's emotions versus instincts?”

Looking out the window, Kagome sighed wistfully. “I'm not sure. I think I just realized, they didn't need to be separated. It was enough to know it mattered naught.” She looked at Gina. “I found an old letter written by Sumiko to Kintaro. There was such…passion in it. I thought of Naraku, if he had succeeded in biting me. I knew I could never feel for him as I feel for Sesshoumaru, even if he had marked me. I hoped…perhaps there is something real between us.” Kagome rubbed happy tears out of her eyes. “Gina, he told me he loves me.”

Gina hugged Kagome affectionately, her own tears beginning to flow. “Silly. Of course he loves you.”

Kagome grinned. “Why Gina, are you crying?”

“With joy, for you both. Darling you are becoming as much a sister to me as I've ever had. And, though he makes it nearly impossible sometimes, I am terribly fond of my cousin.”

They parted after a moment, and Kagome said, “I actually came here to find some work, if you have any. All the bustle due to the other three Houses' arrival has left me wanting, needing to do something.”

“I've got a bundle of herbs to categorize. Leave aside the ones you don't recognize, though I think there are no exotic ones.”

“I'd be most grateful for any task.” They sat and got to work, taking care not to damage the delicate foliage. “And how have things been here?”

“Things here are hectic with the impending assembly of the Houses. The entire manor is tense from the pressure, Seiobo most especially. She's normally so unflappable, gracious and forgiving with everyone. Now she's yelling and snapping at the slightest provocation. The servants are all avoiding her, which pisses her off even more, because no one is around when she needs something.”

Kagome reflected on her mate's mother's uncharacteristic brusqueness that morning. “Yes, I got the impression that she's a little off.”

“And I've been handed the role of Azami's minder. I know she's the daughter of a sworn enemy, but I find myself liking her. At first it was merely pity; imagine growing up with such a family! Naraku,” Gina said the name poisonously, shuddering. “She's just a pawn in all this. Arranged matings are common among the nobility, but hers has so many political ramifications. I know they're all suspicious of her, and she probably shouldn't be trusted…well we've been in each other's company frequently, and I simply don't have the feeling that she is as bad as everyone thinks. Hell, she's probably playing me for a fool and is far more dangerous than I'm giving her credit for. I've been instructed to keep her far away from all the secret meetings that will be taking place. You, apparently, will have a prominent place at the table.”

“What?” Kagome asked incredulously. Her stomach was suddenly tied up in knots. “Tell me you're joking, Gina. I was hoping to fade into the background.”

“No such luck! General Inutaisho feels you've earned trust and have information that could be vital. Actually Lady Inoue mentioned earlier that she wanted to speak with you. I'll go fetch her, if you'd like to continue what we've started.”

“I'd be happy to do so,” Kagome replied, wondering what she could possibly contribute to the meeting of the Taiyoukai.

XXXXX

Sesshoumaru supervised morning drills, inspected weapons, and received the latest progress report regarding the three Houses. He sparred with his elite warriors, reread some intelligence, and attempted meditation, but was unable to concentrate. There was much important work yet to be done, security assignment checked, analyzing patrol logs, but thoughts of his mate clouded his mind, distracting him. There was only one thing to be done about his restlessness, he decided, and the sooner he accomplished his goal, the better. Kagomes's scent led him on a meandering path through the manor, ending in the infirmary. He saw her, seated at a table across the room, picking through a large bunch of dried plants. Her hair was half up, half down, tendrils caressing her face and shoulders, black against her flax-colored robe. She was humming to herself as she worked, seemingly lost in thought, the ghost of a smile hinting at its presence on her lips. He thought she had never looked lovelier. He approached her as a predator stalks its prey, quietly and with single-minded intent.

Kagome caught him out of the corner of her eye, just before he pounced on her. “Aagh! You can't do that Sesshoumaru!” she shrieked as he hauled out of her chair. “I don't want to die of fright! Unmask your aura so I know—”

His mouth crashed down on hers, silencing the complaint. Her muffled protests quickly turned into sensual moans, becoming increasingly wanton as she felt him lean her body against the table, guiding her leg up by his waist, and parting her robe. His fingers teased her moist entrance as hers deftly undid the ties of his pants. “Wait, we can't!” Kagome objected, coming to her senses. “Gina's on her way back.”

“She's far off still, and this won't take long.” He thrust into her and groaned with satisfaction.

Oh really…won't take long? she thought. She did want him, badly, but the lack of foreplay was unusual. He was typically very attentive to her needs. “Hold on a minute,” she said, irritated. He stopped and looked at her. A corner of her upper lip was curled in annoyance. “Why not just dig a hole in the ground and fuck it?”

He laughed quietly. “Because a hole in the ground wouldn't back-talk and make me want to spank it.”

She couldn't help but laugh as well. “You'd best make it up to me tonight, demon. I'll accept nothing less than two hours of your head between my legs.”

He resumed thrusting, wondering if she could be any more perfect. “I look forward to it,” he growled lustily.

XXXXX

Gina and the spy master chatted amiably as they neared the infirmary, almost bumping into Sesshoumaru as he hurried around a corner. “Lady Inoue, Gina, excuse me.”

“Sessh. What are you doing here?” Gina asked dubiously. “One would think there'd be far more important matters begging your attention than paying a visit to me.”

“Not that it's any of your business, I had something to give Kagome,” he muttered. “Lady Inoue, I trust you've taken care of intelligence compilations.”

“Yes, Lord Sesshoumaru, as a matter of fact, I'm on my way to bring your mate up to speed. General Inutaisho feels her experience could be put to good use,” Lady Inoue said lightly, her keen skills of observation not failing to notice the color high on his cheeks and slightly disheveled clothing.

Bowing, Sesshoumaru took his leave as the two females continued to their destination. They entered and saw Kagome, adjusting her robe, painfully trying to appear as if nothing was amiss. “Kagome, I'm back,” Gina announced.

“That didn't take long,” Kagome said in a voice of feigned nonchalance. “I've just been…sorting herbs.”

Gina rolled her eyes. “So that's what they're calling it nowadays. Please remind my cousin, this is an infirmary, not a bordello. And while you're at it, ask him why all the soldiers are making sucking sounds whenever his name is mentioned.” Kagome buried her bright-red face in her hands, miserable. “Oh, don't worry dear,” Gina laughed, “Sesshoumaru's reputation can handle it. Kagome, you've met Lady Inoue, have you not?”

Still blushing furiously, she lifted her head and saw an amused, very pregnant Youkai. “Lady Inoue, hello. I'm sorry, I didn't realize you're expecting. I guess you've always been seated at a large table when we've met previously.”

Lady Inoue sat down heavily. “The pup's due any day now, and thank the Sun for that; I can barely breathe anymore. The timing of this convergence couldn't be worse.” She ran her hands over her belly. “There he goes…kicks as soon as I sit down. Lady Kagome, I'll get to the point. I've been asked to share our findings about a Ningen weapon with you, to learn if there is anything you can add to our information. I understand any feelings of confliction you may have about informing on your kind, but I assure you, we only wish to maintain the peace. The upcoming meetings will be very important for the future of both our societies.”

“General Inutaisho mentioned something recently, but I doubt I can really be of any assistance.”

“Let me judge that,” she smiled. “I've enough experience to know, the whole story rarely is handed to us as one tidy package. It is made up of many bits of seemingly unrelated facts. Sometimes one small piece of information can link two halves of a picture together, giving completely new meaning. I'm sure you have no direct knowledge of this new weapon, but Lady Kagome, you have a unique perspective and may be able to help us sort through the mess we have.”

Lady Inoue's friendly manner set Kagome at ease. She liked this Youkai. “I'll try to help.”

Taking a deep breath, Lady Inoue began. “As you may have surmised, the Four Houses have a network of spies dedicated to monitoring Ningen militarism. I have no question that Ningen have something similar. Earlier this year our spies' accounts started focusing on the activities of two Ningen generals. They were well-known previously as dangerous men, but a communication that we intercepted spoke of something they called kayaku. It hinted that this kayaku was a clandestine project, being developed apart from the awareness of your other generals and Council members. The reports became more and more disconcerting as the year wore on, that kayaku was a weapon of potentially enormous destructive capability. Around this time we also heard rumors that there were those on the Ningen Council who were arguing strenuously for resumption of treaty talks. Lacking any other, more substantial descriptions of kayaku, the Four Houses decided the best course of action would be to take the first step in calling for negotiations. It was Lady Seiobo who proposed making an offer of an alliance based on mating.” Lady Inoue gently took Kagome's hand. “And because of your sacrifice, agreeing to this alliance of enemies, the War is over and fighting has ceased. It has given us an opportunity to turn our attention toward learning all we can about this weapon. When the other Houses convene, we will analyze our collected information and plan our next move. We think you could help us in this endeavor. Lady Kagome, we feel sure if this weapon comes to fruition, it would be to the detriment of everyone, not merely Youkai. These generals are not above using it on their own people. It is in everyone's interest for the peace treaty to continue and kayaku undermines this. The resumption of the War benefits no one.”

“What are the general's names?” Kagome asked darkly, though she already knew. “Are they Kurono and Akagawa?”

Surprise registered briefly on Lady Inoue's face. “You know them, then?”

“Yes. I don't remember too much from my youth of my father's military exploits. It was a long time ago, and those things were terribly boring at the time, but I do recollect that those two were a perpetual thorn in my father's side. He said they routinely ignored any code of honor, that they were unduly bellicose and blood thirsty. Later, at the Miko Shrine their names were mentioned frequently. Because the purpose of the Sisterhood is, or was, the protection of Ningen against Youkai, they had a quiet, loyal following, especially amongst miko who had been particularly affected by the War and its brutalities. The Sisterhood retains a high level of independence and has always strived to stay apart from political machinations, Council business, and, in general, military matters, but Kurono and Akagawa's legendary hatred of Youkai won them many adherents.”

“This is troubling news,” Lady Inoue said. “We had always assumed they were somewhat shunned by those in power.”

“They are, more or less. But don't underestimate the influence they can wield. The peace is new, and the wounds of the War still fester in many.”

Lady Inoue brightened, “You see Lady Kagome, you are helping already. I think you'll find your role in preserving the peace treaty will be a many-faceted jewel.”

“Perhaps,” Kagome said thoughtfully. “But please, just call me Kagome, at least privately.”

Lady Inoue smiled. “Certainly, if you will call me Masako. And I've been told you've experience in midwifery. I would be honored if you'd attend at this birth. Gina's predicting a long, difficult delivery.”

“True, unfortunately. The pup in your belly seems awfully large. And your first was no easy labor.”

“I would be honored to be present,” Kagome said, eager at the prospect of comparing her experience of birthing human women with Youkai females. “Masako,” she continued, “may I ask, how is it that you have such a position? A Ningen woman would never be involved in espionage, or rarely a member of an important group of advisors.”

“Oh, that path started when I was young,” she laughed. “My father was a general and often had encoded documents to decipher. For whatever reason, I have a talent for solving encryption and assisted him on many occasions. The covert arts are second nature to me.”

Kagome's curiosity blossomed. “And how do those spies operate? How do they remain undetected?”

“Many are hanyou who look entirely Ningen. Chameleon Youkai are able to change their appearance to some extent, useful in undercover work. And some spies use threats and bribes. Understand, servants and other underlings hear things and often are willing to take payment for information. Often it is simply getting hold of a courier and using any means of coercion available. It's an art, not a science. There are many ways for things to fall apart, and my job is to keep that from happening and pick up the pieces when it does.”

Kagome was fascinated and more than pleased to have been taken into their confidence.

XXXXX

Later that night Sesshoumaru held his sweaty, content mate close, both enjoying the respite from the realities of the outside world. He growled low as she stretched her body along his, then snuggled in, sighing with pleasure. “And how was your conference with Lady Inoue?”

“Enlightening. And disturbing. My brother served under General Kurono.” Kagome shook, burying her face against Sesshoumaru's shoulder. “I blame him for all Daichi suffered. When he came back from War, so damaged, he'd scream at night about being forced to kill. They slaughtered entire villages. My brother was an accomplished warrior, but he had a gentle heart. I know it was his treatment at the hand of his commander that caused him to become unhinged. And all those cretins who took over our stronghold, I know their depravity was heightened by Kurono. He encouraged cruelty in all who served with him. He's a monster.”

“Don't think about it anymore. He can't hurt you now.”

“I know, but it's truly frightening to hear his name again.”

Sesshoumaru stroked her hair as he kissed the top of her head. “My father plans on speaking with you tomorrow. Something about archery training. I'll warn you though, my mother is determined to prevent it.”

“And what is your opinion?” she asked, licking up the side of his neck.

“Whatever you wish, my love. The choice is yours.”

Lesson learned, she thought, as her licking turned to sucking.

“Miko, now don't start that again.”

“Oh…I think you liked it.”

“Maybe, but we can't keep taking these beads on and off.” It was true. Each time the beads were put back on, the crushing of her lungs was worse. “I love you, Kagome.”

“I know.”