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Learning to Love	By : Ikaru Category: InuYasha > Het - Male/Female > Sessh?maru/Kagome > Sessh?maru/Kagome Views: 22062 -:- Recommendations : 1 -:- Currently Reading : 3
Disclaimer: I do not own InuYasha, nor make money from this story.

Chapter List
- 26
- 27
- 28
Disclaimer: Me no own Inuyasha, me make no money either…T.T

I’m so sorry for not updating in forever everyone! Unfortunately real life got in the way T.T…Forgive me! As a treat you all get a gift of a double post from me! This is chapter is dedicated to my dear Duchess of Darkness who kicked my muse in the butt and got her working again!

Well folks here is the next installment…hope you all enjoy!
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A few hours passed. Eventually both Ikaru and Kagome woke up again. Hanaka had sent the initial food tray back to the kitchens when it became apparent Kagome was not going to wake up any time in the near future, but when both women woke up she ordered two trays and left them to their own devices after helping Ikaru to a sitting position.

They both made small talk and slowly ate their meals. Late afternoon had fallen when Ikaru finally insisted to be allowed to return to her own rooms to rest. Sesshoumaru still hadn’t returned for Kagome so she accompanied Ikaru back to her rooms promising Hanaka she would see to it Ikaru actually rested instead of attempting to do any kind of work. Hanaka had reluctantly agreed to the terms. Before long both women were once again being escorted by two nurses back to Ikaru’s chambers, albeit at a much slower pace than they had been that morning. The leisurely pace allowed Kagome to take in her surroundings much more clearly than she had the last time she had been taken through the maze like halls.

“The tapestries are very beautiful.” Kagome commented idly.

“Hnn…most were gifts from foreign dignitaries. Due to the West’s position of being so close to the mainland it is easier for foreign demons to come and trade their goods here. Foreign dignitaries are often visiting to revise trading contracts.” Ikaru said.

“Sounds rather exciting, tell me how do you overcome the language barrier?” Kagome inquired.

“Whether a dog from the mainland or a dog from across the seas, a demon is a demon Kagome; to answer your question however, we begin by communicating in our primal tongues which are very nearly the same regardless of species. From there we begin to learn the spoken languages of each other. You need not worry over any of this, however, almost all of the dignitaries that come here have learned our language, and those that have not have translators with them.” Ikaru explained.

“I see… that is very interesting, and good to know.” Kagome smiled as they finally reached Ikaru’s chambers. Ikaru immediately took a seat on the mound of pillows by the fire breathing a sigh of relief.

“Come sister, sit beside me.” Ikaru said motioning to the empty spot beside her. Kagome stood still for a moment looking confused before shaking it off and taking the offered seat.

“Isn’t it a bit early to be calling me sister?” Kagome said relaxing into the pillows.

“Not at all, when we made the blood bond this morning you became my sister bound by blood. Therefore, I have free rein to call you as such. When you come visit the east most there will also call you sister because of the bond.” Ikaru said waiving the topic away. “How are you feeling sister?” She asked with sudden seriousness.

“I feel as well as can be expected for having participated in a major fight yesterday. I’m a little worried though. You hit me rather hard in the stomach yesterday, Will my baby be alright?” Kagome asked rubbing her belly, a frown creasing her brow.

“Yes sister, your child will be fine. Remember those spells I cast before?” At Kagome’s nod she continued. “I vaguely remember telling you that the child would be completely protected. The magic is still strong as are the signs coming from the pup. I intend for the spell to stay in effect until you can spend the night with my brother and legally consummate your relationship. I reinforced it this morning when we created the blood bond for just that situation.” Ikaru chuckled, and then winced as her injuries protested the action. Kagome blushed then hung her head.

“I’m sorry for what Sesshoumaru did…” Kagome said reaching out to lay her hand on Ikaru’s arm comfortingly.

“I knew he would be angry sister, the extent of his anger was a little surprising, but not unexpected. I will be fine I assure you. A little sore for a few days but other than that I’ll be as good as new in no time.” She smirked at Kagome patting the hand resting on her arm reassuringly.

“Why do you think he hasn’t come for me yet?” Kagome said resting her head against Ikaru’s shoulder gently. For some reason it just felt right seeking comfort that way, Ikaru didn’t seem to mind as she adjusted to wrap her arm around Kagome and allowed Kagome to cuddle into her side. Kagome was very careful to avoid Ikaru’s injuries as she settled into the comforting embrace.

“I’m afraid I can’t answer for him Kagome, you will have to wait until he returns and ask him yourself. You must remember something about him; he has never been very good at expressing himself vocally. Even as a child he had difficulties with it, you will find he most often times shows you his feelings through his actions. You just have to learn what to look for.” Ikaru said reclining back a little farther into the pillows relaxing and stretching her toes a little closer to the merrily crackling fire. Beneath the thin hospital garb Ikaru could feel the tension wound tightly in Kagome. Sighing Ikaru pulled her closer heedless of her injuries and hugged Kagome tightly.

“You have been strong long enough sister; it’s ok to let it out.” Kagome’s whole body tensed up before she collapsed in Ikaru’s embrace and cried her heart out. She muffled her cries into Ikaru’s uninjured shoulder. Ikaru let a soothing growl rumble through her chest as she held Kagome and ran a hand soothingly up and down her back. Before long Kagome’s cries wore down to sniffles and the occasional hiccup. She finally stilled having fallen asleep. Ikaru kept up the soothing growl and running her hand up and down Kagome’s back until she too fell asleep.

Later that evening Lady Izayoi came to visit them bringing food and Inuyasha and Rin to visit. Kagome acted as if a huge weight had been lifted off her shoulders. Her laughs had a lighter note and her smiles sparkled more clearly in her eyes. Ikaru smirked at the change, the others seemed oblivious. Ikaru had masked the scent of tears and both Kagome and herself had washed as best as they could around the bandages and changed into sturdier night clothes. Inuyasha had made fast friends with Rin and was currently telling them all about their day before a large yawn escaped Rin shortly followed by Inuyasha.

“All right you two, I think it is time for bed.” Ikaru said smiling when both children shook their heads in unison.

“Nee-san we’re not tired, really we’re not!” Inuyasha insisted just before another larger yawn escaped him. Rin had given up and crawled over toward Kagome and laid her head on Kagome’s lap already half asleep.

“Well you may not be but Rin obviously is. Not to mention I am tired Inuyasha.” Ikaru said faking a yawn. Inuyashas’ puppy ears flattened. He had been told not to mention the battle in front of Rin; his little nose had easily picked up the smells of the many ointments covering both Ikaru and Kagome. He figured they didn’t want Rin to worry over them; she was human and obviously didn’t understand many of the things that were normal for demons. His little mind considered Rin as his little sister since aniki had obviously marked her as his so protecting her was his first priority. Suddenly coming up with what he considered a wonderful idea he jumped up and hopped over to his mother.

“Okaa-san! Can Rin-chan stay with me tonight?” The pup asked excitedly. In his excitement he missed how all of the adults’ eyebrows rose in shock before lowering and changing to smiles.

“Well Inuyasha that depends on her and what her mother says. You will have to ask Kagome for her permission.” Izayoi said to the excited pup who nodded vigorously before carefully jumping over to Kagome’s other side.

“Nee-san can Rin stay with me tonight? I promise I’ll be real careful and take very good care of her!” He said with his cutest pleading expression. Kagome didn’t have the heart to say no, her heart nearly burst with a mixture of happiness and sadness when he called her ‘nee-san’.

“I don’t have a problem with it Inuyasha, but you must ask Rin, if you can wake her up that is. You must also be mindful that she isn’t supposed to walk by herself yet because her feet are still injured.” Kagome said running a hand through her daughters’ thick hair.

“That’s no problem nee-san Rin is really light and easy to carry!” Inuyasha beamed proudly.

Kagome decided it was probably better not to ask how he knew this already and simply motioned for him to try and rouse the sleeping girl. Inuyasha carefully crawled over to the sleeping girl and gently laid his hand on her shoulder and shook it with the same gentleness. Rin groggily swatted at his hand. Not deterred he tried again a little more insistently. Rin sat up then looking around confusion clear in her expression. Inuyasha was immediately by her side whispering in her ear. All of the adults could hear the conversation, but politely gave them the illusion of privacy.
After looking at Inuyasha with an annoyed expression from being woken up she nodded her assent and reached up to him to be carried. Inuyasha carefully picked her up bridal style; it only looked a little awkward because of the size of the children, but true to his word Inuyasha had no problem handling Rins’ weight. Lady Izayoi excused herself and helped Inuyasha with the doors as they all said their goodnights before leaving the two women alone again.

“It still feels odd how you all have taken Rin and myself in so easily.” Kagome said watching the door that her daughter had just recently left through.

“In a way that is how a pack works Kagome, well our pack anyhow.” Ikaru said trying not to laugh because it still hurt to do so.

“That still doesn’t help the odd feeling.” Kagome said with a cute pout. Ikaru couldn’t help herself and finally laughed ignoring the pain it caused her.

“You’ll get used to it sister. Now come, help me to my bed so I can try and sleep some of this pain away.” Ikaru said raising her hands as Kagome stood and helped Ikaru to her feet. Exhaustion quickly took hold of both women as they made their way to Ikarus’ bed chambers.

“This is why I hate getting any type of serious injuries. I despise how quickly you get tired because of them!” Ikaru grumbled as Kagome helped her to sit down.

“I know exactly how you feel.” Kagome winced as she chuckled taking a seat beside Ikaru to catch her breath. “I suppose I’ll be bunking with you again tonight.” Kagome said a hint of sadness coloring her voice.

“It’s beginning to look that way isn’t it? You are more than welcome you realize?” Ikaru said.

“Oh yes I know, I suppose I was just looking forward to seeing Sesshoumaru again.” Kagome said sadness trickling further into her voice. Ikaru placed a comforting hand on her shoulder.

“I’ll be certain to have a thorough talk with the idiot about how to properly treat a female the next time I see him. I believe he has been hanging around me too long and forgets not all females are as independent as I am.” Ikaru said sympathetically.

“The problem is I normally am as independent as you…it’s just…oh I don’t even know what it is…” Kagome said sighing in exasperation.

“Oh I know exactly what your problem is.” Ikaru chuckled at Kagome’s hopeful look. “You are pregnant. Pregnant females are far more…what’s the word…cuddly?...no no that’s not it…anyway they require the presence of their mate more often than they do when they are not pregnant. It has to do with the bonding of the fetus and something about protection or some such nonsense as that according to Hanaka.” Ikaru said scrunching her features in confusion. She hated explaining this sort of stuff, not having experienced it herself made it that much harder to explain.

“So it is because of the baby that I’m feeling this way?” Kagome said trying to simplify it.

“Yes. For the most part it is the pups doing. The rest is probably the fact that you truly just want to be with my brother.” Ikaru said smiling at Kagome, who blushed a pretty shade of pink.

“I do love your brother very much. More than I ever thought I could love someone other than my family.” Kagome admitted shyly.

“I’m afraid that this ‘love’ you speak of is a foreign concept among demons. What is it exactly?” Ikaru questioned looking quite curious.

“Well, it’s quite hard to explain. There is no way to really explain it, you simply feel it. I suppose it is one of those situations like you were in earlier. The only difference is Hanaka doesn’t have the answer for this one.” Kagome smirked. “I also don’t think it is as foreign as you seem to think it is. I know this because your brother loves me.” Kagome continued to explain.

“I’m afraid I still don’t understand. Aniki’s behavior has been well within the normal bounds of a mating as far as I have seen.” Ikaru said cocking her head to the side.

“Perhaps, but in all honesty you haven’t seen us interact all that much since my arrival.” Kagome pointed out.

“Touché sister I will have to keep a closer eye on the two of you in the future. Maybe then I will see and understand this ‘love’ you speak of.” Ikaru smirked.

“I wish you luck with that Ikaru, you really can’t understand love. I am learning it is constantly changing. One moment you’ll be on cloud nine and the next you are crashing to the ground. You will only begin to understand it when you feel it for another.” Kagome said wisely.

“We shall see sister. I will give it an attempt if nothing else.” Ikaru smirked, loving the thrill of the challenge. “However, now is not the time for such things. Perhaps tomorrow my brother will come to his senses. Until then let’s try to get some sleep.” Ikaru said reaching for one of the many small vials on her side table. Kagome watched as Ikaru upended the bottle and downed the contents. She knew now was not the time to ask about it, so she simply rose and said her good nights and headed for her waiting futon. It was a little lonely without someone sleeping beside her. It amazed her how she had become accustomed to someone sleeping beside her in such a short period of time. Before long though she felt her eyelids grow heavy and let sleep carry her away.

Early morning came and went. Ikaru’s night terrors returned and she had in turn slept only in small increments through the night. Kagome had awakened periodically hearing the moaning coming from Ikarus’ bedroom and gone to check on her until Ikaru had told her to just ignore her. Kagome had reluctantly agreed. Both were now returning from visiting Hanaka to have their bandages changed, heading down the maze like halls. Ikaru was teaching Kagome the tricks of navigating the halls as they made their way to Inuyashas’ room to pick up Rin and send Inuyasha to his lessons.

“It all seems so simple now.” Kagome said.

“Yes, its simplicity is what causes the greatest confusion.” Ikaru smirked.

“I can see that now.” “Kagome smiled as they finally arrived at the family wing and Inuyashas’ door. They could hear Inuyasha laughing inside. They peeked in to see what was going on.

Inside Inuyasha was putting on some kind of play fight solo. He was obviously showing off for Rin who was clapping and laughing silently from the corner of his bed. Ikaru put her finger to her lips telling Kagome to remain silent as she snuck in and like lightning had Inuyasha caught and hanging upside down by his ankles.

“I have you now little warrior. Tell me how will you save the fair maiden now?” She chuckled darkly. Inuyasha smiled and played right along.

“You haven’t beaten me yet!” He flipped up and wrapped his arms around Ikarus’ neck, being careful of her wounds. He quickly swung around to cling to her back, hiding underneath her hair. With a ‘hyyyaaa’ and a ‘whaaaa’ and two outward flips of Ikaru’s unbound hair, the evil Ikaru had been defeated by the mighty Inuyasha! She fell defeated to his bed right beside Rin.

“Oh…oh… you have beaten me…ahhhh…”She said pretending to pass out. Rin and Kagome clapped loudly as Inuyasha emerged from his sister’s heavy hair with a beaming smile.

“You were wonderful Inuyasha!” Kagome cooed at the now blushing boy.

“Aww it was nothing!” He said rubbing his nose shyly.

“Uggg...Inuyasha…do me a favor…get off!” Ikaru grumbled from under Inuyasha. He quickly jumped from his sitting position on her back to the bed beside Rin as Ikaru slowly brought herself to a sitting position. “One of these days I’ll learn not to scuffle with you while I’m still recovering.” She winced holding her sore side.

“I’m sorry nee-san I was too rough…I’m sorry!” Inuyasha said beginning to tear up.

“Inuyasha stop that this instant! It wasn’t you. I fell wrong and stretched my side a little too far is all.” Ikaru said opening her arms for the pouting pup. He immediately cuddled into her lap, being overly careful of her wounds and sniffling a little as he recovered.

Kagome sat on the bed beside Rin who curled into her side. She looked confused. Both her momma and the pretty lady had been acting funny for the last two days, what little she had seen of them. She knew something big had happened because she could still see the bruises the two of them sported. Rin gently patted a bruise on the back of Kagome’s hand and looked questioningly at her. Kagome shared a look with Ikaru before smiling down at Rin.

“There is nothing to worry over Rin. It was something I had to deal with before I could stay here. I’ll be recovered in no time.” Kagome said hugging her gently. Rin didn’t like the fact her momma had to fight, but she was happy that it was the pretty lady she had fought and not one of the other mean looking ladies they had passed in the courtyard.

“It is the way of things here child, one day you will understand.” Ikaru said a look of sad understanding shown in her eyes.

“Nee-san where is aniki?” Inuyasha asked suddenly.

“I don’t know Inuyasha. I haven’t seen him for well over a day. I’m sure he’ll be back sometime tonight.” Ikaru said delaying a definite answer. Inuyasha looked at her skeptically before noticing the sad looks on Kagome and Rins’ faces. His ears drooped as he realized he had made them sad with his question. “Inuyasha, I’m going to borrow Rin for a while. She needs to see Hanaka, and you need to be off to your lessons.” Ikaru’s voice left no room for an argument. Inuyasha nodded sadly before hopping off his sisters’ lap and heading toward the door.

“I’ll see you all this afternoon right?” He asked when he reached the door.

“Of course, we will see you at the noonday and evening meal if nothing else. Now off to your lessons.” Ikaru made a shooing motion as he smiled and rushed out the door.

“Well come on you two, back to Hanaka and then a snack for the both of you.” Ikaru smiled. “Something sweet I think?” Her smile widened as both females perked at the sound of sweets.

The trip to back to Hanaka’s was an uneventful one. The healer carefully inspected Rin’s feet. She was happy with the weight Rin had already managed to put on, and the progress her feet were making. Her voice was still fragile though.

“Well this little lady is progressing quite nicely. Another week of bed rest and her feet should be well enough to allow her small excursions on them. Her physical condition has also improved nicely. I’ll keep her on her tea regimen for another week I think. As for her voice, it will still take some time to recover and she should be discouraged from attempting to use it for the time being.” Hanaka said as she applied more ointment and bandages to Rins’ feet.

Kagome and Ikaru smiled encouragingly at Rin. She only winced a little as the ointment and bandages were applied. Before long the process was done and they were on their way to the kitchens. When they got there Ikaru kept her word and got the sweets for Kagome and Rin who eagerly ate them.

By the noonday meal Sesshoumaru still hadn’t returned and Kagome’s mood was steadily worsening. Kagome sipped her blood a nibbled on her meal, her eyes held a faraway look. Both Inuyasha and Rin were becoming worried for her. Ikaru had finally had enough. Mindful of her still mending body, she slowly rose and excused herself from the dining hall. She made her way to her fathers’ study. As usual she didn’t have to knock as she heard him call to her even before she could raise her hand.

She quietly entered and took her normal seat before him while she waited for him to finish reading the document in front of him.

“What is it you need daughter?” He asked when he was done he raised his eyes to meet his daughters’.

“Kagome’s mood continues to worsen. Her appetite is beginning to be affected as well. There is little more I can do for her. She needs Sesshoumaru, as does the little one. It is time he stopped moping.” Ikaru growled.

“I completely agree daughter. I thought to give him some space to come to terms with what happened, and myself as well as I am still uncertain whether I can keep my temper from the boy for hurting you, but this is becoming ridiculous.” Inutaishio frowned at her.

“Papa leave him be about the incident with me. I guarantee you he has more than punished himself enough for what he did. You know where he is don’t you?” Ikaru said with a sigh.

“Of course I know where he is. He always goes to the same place when he is deeply troubled. Though he has been there far longer than normal this time.” Inutaishio said his brow furrowed in thought.

“Good then I will let you be the one to go and fetch him. I believe I will try one last distraction for Kagome. Try to have him back by nightfall.” Ikaru said as she rose to leave. Inutaishio stared at his daughters’ retreating back until she stopped and turned back to him at the door. “Remember to bring flowers with you this time, and lay a few down for me as well please.” She said with a sad smile. He nodded and when she had closed the door behind her he let out a sigh.

“It has been far too long since I visited I suppose. Perhaps some incent sticks would also be appropriate…” Inutaishio began to mumble as he made a small list of things to bring with him.

The items he wanted to bring were quickly acquired by a maid, all but the flowers. Those he had picked himself from what remained of the gardens as the maid had scurried off. In one arm he held his large bundle of flowers, in the other he held the parcel the maid delivered to him.

With another sigh and a shift of his shoulders he allowed an energy cloud to surround his feet as he rose off the ground and headed to the mountains to the north of the castle.

He landed a short while later and took a deep calming breath to dispel the wave of painful memories that this place brought on.

This place that was the final resting place of someone still very dear to him.

The tomb of Lady Serenity.

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Yes I know not the best way to end a chapter, but I hope you can forgive me. Next time Inutaishio and Sesshoumaru have a long conversation inside his mother’s tomb!

You all know the drill by now! Please leave a review to let me know what you think!!

See you next time!
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Learning to Love