Chapter 8: Recoveries and Discoveries
"Kanon! Are you alright over there?!" Kate yelled across the ravine. She got no answer. The jellicles dropped their spears. The red from Kanon's eyes faded back to brown. "Poor Man..." she said looking at Shishio's body lying on the ground ".....May he find peace at last." Her friends were still calling from the other side of the ravine.
"Aye, luv. Are you alright?! We can't get over the ravine!"
"Kanon! Lass!"
Everybody was stunned when Kanon moved to close Shishio's lifeless eyes. Kenshin came into the courtyard looking for Kenji when he saw Kanon. "Miss Kanon?" he was shocked to see Shishio's body lying there. Kanon stood, suddenly her legs felt very weak and gave way. Kenshin rushed over and caught her before she fell. "Miss Kanon?" said Kenshin, very alarmed. Kanon opened her eyes and said very softly "I didn't give Kenshin.....I didn't.....didn't give up....." Kanon's head rolled back as she passed out. Her bracelet once again gave light and the ravine began to close up, letting the other able to cross. Kate ran the first chance she got, Sue and Misto close behind her.
"Is she alright, Kenshin?!" Kate asked. Tears were welling in Kenshin's eyes, he held Kanon tightly. Sue came closer "Oh dear....." she whispered as she examined Kanon's wounds. "They came very close to her neck."
"I believe she will be alright.....that I do..." Kenshin said.
"I know she will be fine. But she needs to be cleaned."
Teazer carried Kenji to them. The small boy was still very frightened "Aunty Kanon!"
"She will be alright, little one." Kenji's father said calmly. Kenshin knelt down, resting Kanon's head in his lap. It wasn't long however before Kanon opened her eyes.
"What happened?" she sat up, saw Shishio's body and panicked "Ahh! Why is he DEAD?? WHAT IS GOING ON!!!!" she had not remembered the battle. Everyone looked at each other, not sure of what to say to her.
"Shishio is dead....."
"That alone is clear enough....."
"There is nothing to be scared of now....." said Kenshin. Kanon dropped her head back onto Kenshin's lap.
"We should get her back inside." Said Sue.
"Yes" Kenshin agreed then turned to Aoshi "Would you?"
Aoshi nodded, picked up Kanon and carried her back to dojo. Kate was sitting on the ground still a bit shaky. Kenshin offered his hand to her "Miss Kate?" Kate smiled back and took his hand, he helped her to her feet. They all headed back inside, and saw Saitoh at the door. He was leaning against the door frame. Sue walked up and stood in front of him with her hands on her hips.
"And I told you that you shouldn't move...tsk tsk." She shook her head. Saitoh could only smile "I wont lie to you" he said "I'm not a very good listener." He laughed. Sue gave a small smile "Clearly."
Aoshi placed Kanon on a bed. A beautiful young woman walked in "Everyone stand back!" she said. Sano started to drool and the sight of this woman. Kate saw it and elbowed him in the ribs. Sano looked at her annoyed "What!?"
"You're Drooling!"
"So?"
Kate sighed. There was no point in talking to him. The woman brought out her medicine bag, she seemed a bit frustrated. "Everybody please stand back!" She started to treat the would on Kanon's neck. "And Sano, stop drooling!"
"Ha! I told you so!" Kate said to Sano, smiling. Sano grumbled.
"You there" The woman said pointing to Sue "Fetch me some warm water."
"Yes, Miss" Sue went to get the water. Meanwhile Templeton had his eyes on the beautiful woman. Kate saw the look in his eyes and whispered "Templeton! Behave yourself!" Templeton of course wasn't listening. He walked up to the woman. "May I have the pleasure of knowing your name mamsiel?" *
"Megumi Takani" she replied without looking at him. "I'm the medicine woman."
"Ah lovely name....." said Templeton. Megumi just continued with her task, not paying Templeton any mind. Kate rolled her eyes "Hun, the lady is BUSY!" she whispered. But Templeton continued to stare at Megumi "Yes.....I know....." he said.
"I NEED THAT WATER!!" Megumi shouted. Sue ran back in the room with the hot water. Megumi nodded her thanks and turned back to Kanon.
"So me lovely lady...." Templeton continued. Kate turned around, shaking her head. She really didn't want to watch this. Templeton was quite the charmer back home but here..... Megumi was listening but never turned her head from her work. She was becoming rather annoyed when Templeton didn't finish his sentence "What?!" she asked.
"Hmm...." trying to keep good conversation with this woman was harder then he thought "Where have you learned all this?" Templeton felt like slapping himself, it was the first thing that popped into his head.
"My Grandfather." Megumi answered shortly. She was washing out Kanon's neck wound. Sano was jealous that Templeton was getting all of what he thought was Megumi's attention. That was about the only thing that Kate thought was amusing.
"Well I must say, Mamseil Megumi, that you are doing a very wonderful job at your work."
Sue rolled her eyes when she heard this "He never showed any appreciation for my work at home."
Megumi started working on Kanon's shoulder. Kate took a handkerchief and waved it in front of Sano's face, he was again staring at Megumi "Sano...wipe your mouth, your still drooling!"
Sano had enough, he growled under his breath and left the room. Aoshi hadn't once taken his eyes off of Kanon all this time. Although he didn't show it, he was very worried about her. Kate took to pacing the floor, Misto had gone into deep meditation and she didn't want to disturb him. The room was now experiencing an awkward silence and it was beginning to get to Kate.
Teazer leaned back in the seat where she sat. She wasn't feeling well herself. "You alright there luv?"
"Yes...I need air..I'll be outside." She quickly got up and left. Kate watched her leave, curious. But she turned her attention back to Kanon "Megumi, any chance she's going to come around soon?"
"Not for a while....."
Kate sighed and sat down near Kanon. Finally Megumi stood up "Well that should do it." She said. Kanon's wounds were all cleaned and bandaged.
"Thank you, Miss Megumi" said Kenshin.
"Make sure she eats something when she wakes. And if she's in pain give her this with some water." She handed Kenshin some opium and headed out.
"Thank you again, Miss Megumi."
"Yes thank you very much."
Megumi smiled then left. Kate turned to Kenshin "What do we do now?"
"We wait, and pray."
Kate stood in the doorway, she prayed silently. She then looked around the room again. She remembered that Teazer had left. "Jerrie?"
"Ye?" Jerrie looked up.
"Where did Teazer say she was going?"
"I don know, Kate. She said she needed some air. She had been acting a li'le bit odd."
"Hmm....I'll go see if I can find her."
Teazer was out exploring the courtyard singing "Mother Earth rapped a veil of mist around her shoulders.....She sent a massage to me when she shook her deep earth boulders. Don't sleep while this time slips on by. Watch for the birds in the evening sky...Did you feel the roll of the blanket earth...." Tears started to run down Teazer's soft cheeks.
Kate was wondering around not far away from where Teazer stood. She was actually close enough to hear Teazer singing. Kate hadn't heard her sing for the longest time. She followed her voice.
"I heard Mother Earth call.....when she began to roll....she cries out to the winter land...." Teazer stopped short. Kate had found her and was watching. Teazer turned and saw her standing there. "Oh!" Teazer cleared her throat nervously "'Ello luv....."
"Hello RumpleTeazer." Kate walked slowly toward her "I'm sorry I....."
"No it's alright, Kate."
"I haven't heard you sing for a while....not since...."
"I don't usually care for people to 'ear me anymore." Teazer turned away.
"Does Jerrie know?"
Teazer shook her head "There are some things that even your mate shouldn't know."
Back inside the dojo, Kanon turned her head and groaned. She finally awoke. Kenshin had prepared some food for her. Templeton stood "How are you feeling lass?" he asked Kanon. He got another groan for a response.
"Aye....I believe that be ye anwsa." Said Jerrie, wringing his paw-like hands. He was beginning to worry about his mate.
Kenshin sat down a tray of food on a table next to the bed. "Miss Megumi said you should eat something, that she did." Kanon tried to sit up, but the pain was still intense so she lay back down. "Ow....." Kenshin also brought her medicine for her pain with some water. She took it then washed it down quickly with the water.
"So.....how is everyone?" Kanon smiled weakly.
"Could be worse." Said Misto, who had ended his meditation a few minutes before she woke. Jerrie nodded "I think you took the 'ardest blow luv."
Aoshi was very relieved to see Kanon awake again, he came and hugged her, careful not to hurt her. She smiled and hugged back. Then she suddenly remembered "Shishio?.....Where is Shishio!" she looked at the others around her.
Everyone was silent as they looked at each other. "Lass, you don't remember?" asked Templeton. She gave him a puzzled stare.
"He's gone, Kanon.....dead." said Misto.
"Dead.....?" She was shocked but still a bit relieved. "But....How?"
"By your own hands....."
Kanon starred at her hands "I-I killed him.....?" she looked to Aoshi "Is this true?" He nodded. Kanon sighed then nodded "Yes....I remember." She hung her head low.
"If you hadn't fought, he would have killed you." Said Misto. Kanon silently rose from the bed, not anymore feeling any pain and walked outside to the courtyard. She saw Shishio's body lying there. Aoshi followed her and stood at her side. "It's a shame" she said to him "If he wasn't insane, maybe this wouldn't have happened." Her eyes never left Shishio's body as she spoke. Aoshi didn't look at her either "You did what you had to do...." He said. Kanon and Aoshi looked at each other for a moment, then she finally broke down in tears. She leaned against him. Aoshi held her to comfort her, and she didn't mind.
Kate was walking back to the dojo, Teazer at her side. She saw Kanon and Aoshi together. "Funny...."
"What's that luv?" Teazer asked.
"Seeing those two together like that.....now I've seen everything."
Kenshin was watching Kanon and Aoshi from the doorway, smiling to himself. Kate walked up to him "It's nice to see her up and about." She said.
"Yes it is, Miss Kate. It's nice to see her happy at last as well, that is....."
"Mmm-Hmm" Kate fiddled with her silver cross that she wore on a silver chain.
"Ever since she was orphaned, there was always a hint of sadness about her. Now, that seems to have vanished....." Kenshin smiled.
At that moment Jerrie walked in the door and past Kenshin and Kate "oh excuse me....Teazer?"
Teazer turned and smiled faintly at her mate. Jerrie came down to her and put his arms around her. He took a nip at her ear "Are you well luv?"
"Mmm" Teazer leaned her head on his shoulder, unable to say was ailed her.
Kate watched them from the doorway with Kenshin and started to nibble her lower lip "Something is wrong....."
"Hmm? What is it Miss Kate?" asked Kenshin.
"It's RumpleTeazer.....she's not herself....I mean if anyone is there to cheer people up, it's Teazer. I haven't seen her this down since...." Kate started ringing her hands. "There had been only one time when I saw her this way....just one time."
Kenshin looked concerned but didn't interrupt.
"She's....she's lost her child....her only child....a stillborn."
Kenshin look at Kate with great sadness "I'm very sorry....But what would make her act this way now, Miss Kate?"
"I-I don't know. But I won't pursue this. I'll find out in time....when she's ready to talk." She said. Kenshin nodded in agreement.
Aoshi and Kanon parted from their embrace and walked towards Shishio's now very cold body. Kanon went to get a shovel as Aoshi picked up the lifeless form. Together they walked through the doors and out of the courtyard, taking Shishio with them. Kate was very puzzled. "Kenshin, why are they doing this?"
"They do this in respect to Shishio." He replied. "They've gone to burry him....."
Kate thought it over and nodded "Yes, I suppose everyone deserves a decent burial."
Kenshin went back inside, and Kate followed him. Misto stood as she walked into the room. "What's happening out there?"
"Only two love scenes and a funeral." said Kate.
Outside the courtyard, Shishio's burial is complete. Aoshi watched as Kanon forced Shishio's sword into the ground at the head of the grave to mark it.
That evening everyone was asleep at the dojo. Well almost everyone. Kate opened her eyes at the sound of somebody singing. She sat up, listening as the voice sang "Now I know it's true, my every road leads to you....and in the hour of darkness, your light got me through....."
Kate stood up and listened. The voice was coming from outside. She followed it. "I can't stand the distance, I can't dream alone, I can't wait to see you, yes I'm on my way home....I've seen every sunset, and with all that I've learned....ohh....it's you, I will always, always.....return...." The voice trailed off. Kate wondered outside to find that nobody was there. She looked about and shivered. Then she heard a flute play softly above her. It played the same song she had heard the voice sing. Startled Kate looked up "What in the world" she breathed, there she saw Kanon, sitting on the roof! She was playing her flute, her eyes closed, it was a beautiful melody.
Kate watched in silence, she didn't want to interrupt. Kanon suddenly stopped and sighed. She stared at the stars.
"Kanon!" Kate called up softly, not wanting to wake anyone else. Kanon looked down, surprised "Oh hello, Kate. Did I wake you? I'm sorry I'll stop....."
"No, no....it's nice. What is it?"
Kanon only smiled "Why don't you come up? The view is AMAZING!" she said. Kate smiled and climbed up to where Kanon sat. Once at the top she looked about her and gasped "Wow! It IS amazing!"
"Yeah" Kanon looked at the stars again. "Do you see that group of stars?" She pointed to a constellation above them.
"Yes....."
"Do you see the shape it makes?"
Kate looked at it carefully and saw "I see it! It's a dragon right?"
"That's right. They call it Draco. Long ago when man was young and Dragons already old, the wisest of the dragons took pity on man. He gathered together all of the dragons in the world, making them vow to watch over man, always. And at the moment of the wise dragon's death, the night became alive with those stars." Kanon pointed to the constellation again. "And thus was born the dragon's heaven and the only way for dragons to be allowed into this shining place, they must prove themselves worthy. That's why Draco, my friend, shared his life force with a dying young girl, to reunite human and dragon forever."
Kate looked at Kanon "Do you come up here every night?" she asked.
"Only when I need to think. I call it my sanctuary of thought. When I need to sort things out, I come here."
"Yes. I have a place back home where I like to go."
"Where?"
"It's a spot in the woods; there is a little stream there. It's a quiet little spot, and very calming. I often got there to play my mandolin or just to be alone. There is a beautiful clear view of the sky."
Kanon smiled. Kate smiled too, but then it faded as she thought of her next question, believing she already knew the answer "Kanon, who was the dying girl?" Kanon looked at her again, then smiled once more "Me." She said. "When I was little, I had a habit of getting into fights. In one of those fights, my opponent had a knife with him....I was stabbed through the heart."
Kate winced hearing this.
"Luckily for me, my friend Kitari Evenstar was around. She took me to Draco. He gave me half of his heart to make me whole....and we were close ever since." Kanon's smile faded slightly as she turned back to the stars "But Draco was killed....and he lives through me."
Kate hugged her cape around her. Kanon looked at her again "It's cold. You should go back inside."
"I suppose so. Are you coming?"
"I'll be there in a minute...."
"Alright" Kate nodded and climbed down the wall. Before going inside, Kate prayed again silently, then tucked her silver cross into her chemise and went back inside. Kanon began to play the flute again, the song was different, sadder this time, yet more beautiful than the last. It seemed to bare her soul at that moment in time.
Kate was going to lay herself down when she saw Misto sitting up. She whispered to get his attention he looked up. "Couldn't sleep?" he asked.
"Not really." Kate to sit next to him "Couldn't sleep either?"
Misto smiled "Well you know me; I was always a night owl." Misto then created a little sphere of light in his paws, the soft glow lit up his pale face. "There that's better."
Kate stared at the ball of light for a minute then asked "How come you don't do your magic anymore?"
"I do.....just not when people are around."
"That never used to bother you."
"I was a child, and never knew the dangers. I was foolish to show my powers to people."
Kate moved closer and let her head rest against his shoulder and nodded. "I understand." She said.
"I saw you coming from outside." Misto mentioned "What were you doing?"
Kate could hear Kanon was still playing outside "Hear that?"
"Yes, what is that?"
"That's my reason for wondering around outside, it's Kanon."
Misto listened silently for a moment "That's beautiful....."
"She is outside on the roof; she kind of startled me at first."
"Is she well?"
"She's just having some time to collect herself." Kate said before yawning.
"You should try to sleep."
"I know...."
Then Misto started to sing very softly "Clusters of crocus.....purple and gold.....blankets of pansies.....up from the cold.....lilies and Iris.....safe from the chill.....safe in the garden.....snowdrops so still....." As Kate falls asleep to the song, Misto laid himself next to her before falling asleep himself.
Kanon's song continued on through the night.
Morning made its way into the courtyard and light filled the room in which everyone slept. Teazer woke up and stretched her limbs. She looked down to see her mate was still asleep. She knelt down and started cleaning his ears "Wake up luv." She said. Jerrie's ears twitched. Kenshin had been up long before the others and was cooking breakfast. Sano was snoring so loudly it was amazing that he didn't wake the others. Saitoh however was already awake, but still in bed.
Jerrie stirred "Give...give me five more minutes mum...." He mumbled. Teazer sighed, but she wasn't giving up that easily.
Aoshi woke up to find that not all of them were present. He got up and went outside. He looked up to see Kanon on the roof. She wasn't moving. He quickly climbed up to get her "Kanon what are you doing up here?" Kanon was lying on her back. Aoshi gently helped her up "Aoshi?" Kanon said quietly.
"Yes it's me."
"Cold....." Kanon said shivering. Aoshi pulled her close to him to try to keep her warm. Kanon smiled and hugged him back, still shivering.
Back inside Teazer was still trying to get Jerrie to get up. Then she bit his ear a little too hard. "Ahh!" he bolted up right "All right! I'm up!"
"Luv you be sleeping like a log."
The shout woke up Sue and Templeton. "Good morning everyone" said Sue.
"Mornin'...." said Jerrie rubbing his ear. Kate and Misto were both heavy sleepers and didn't wake. Templeton rubbed his head "Whew! I had the strangest sleep....."
"Another dream?" asked Sue.
"Aye, I was out at sea with my father when Kanon came flying at our ship...."
"Kanon? She flew?" Sue asked.
"That's right."
"Maybe she be our guardian angel then." Sue got up to see Misto and Kate still sleeping and shook her head. She stepped over them. Sue turned back around when she suddenly heard a groan coming from Teazer.
"Oh.....excuse me...." Teazer said then headed outside as quickly as she could.
"Teazer?!" Jerrie got up to after her but Sue stopped him.
"No Jerrie....wait. She'll come back." She sat him back down again.
Templeton then decided to wake up Kate and Misto "Oy! You two! Tis dawn! Up, up, up!"
Kate waved her hand at him, her eyes still closed "I'm up!"
Misto sat up, causing Kate's head to roll onto his lap "Good morning"
"Uh-huh....." Kate really didn't want to get up.
In the courtyard, Teazer was picking up the pace as she walked. She needed to find somewhere.....quickly! Kanon was half way down the dojo wall when she spotted her. She jumped off the rest of the way and landed in front Teazer, startling her.
"Morning!" she greeted cheerfully
"Ah! Oh morning....."
Are you alright? You looked like you were in a hurry....."
"Oh I'm.....ohh...." Teazer's face was turning rather pale; she brought her paw to her belly.
"Teazer? Are you ok? You don't look so good."
When Teazer brought her other paw to her mouth, Kanon quickly took the hint and grabbed a bucket that was laying nearby and set it down for Teazer. The poor Jellicle doubled over and vomited into the bucket. Kanon walked behind Teazer and started rubbing her back gently "I thought you looked sick....." Teazer coughed and began to fall over, but Kanon caught her. "We should get you to a doctor."
"Mmm-hmm" was all Teazer could say.
"Sue! Come here quick!" Kanon yelled.
Sue came running as fast as she could Jerrie close behind her.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
"RumpleTeazer!" Jerrie feared for his mate "What happened?"
"She's sick" answered Kanon "She was vomiting."
Sue felt her forehead, but Teazer had no fever. Kanon propped her up against her.
"Let's get her inside." said Sue.
"'Ere I'll carry 'er." Said Jerrie and Kanon helped Teazer into his arms.
Aoshi came down the wall in hearing all this commotion. He helped Kanon off the ground "Is she alright?" he asked.
"I don't know what's wrong." She was about to take the bucket when she decided to pull a little prank. "Hey Yahiko!" she called "Come clean this mess!!!!" she then walked away with Aoshi, smiling evilly. After they were all inside they heard Yahiko yell "Oh Sweet Mother of *BEEP*"
Templeton walked out of the room "What is all the yelling...." Then Jerrie carried in Teazer "....ohhh alright." he said.
"Here, lay her down here Jerrie" Sue pointed to an empty bed. Kate was fully awake now and was at Sue's side before anyone could blink.
"What's wrong with her Sue?" she asked.
Sue was leaning over Teazer "I'm not sure yet Kate.....though I have a theory."
Teazer groaned.
"Hmm.....but if I'm going to test my theory, I can't have everyone present." She turned to everyone else, so they would get the idea.
"Um...I'll be outside." Templeton said and headed out the door.
"Me too, come on Misto" Kate pulled on his arm.
"Call if you need me Sue" Misto said.
"Come on Aoshi." Said Kanon. Aoshi left but Kanon hesitated "She will be alright....won't she?"
"If it's all what I think it is, she should be."
Kanon nodded and left. There was only one still in the room. Sue turned to him "I'm sorry Jerrie, you too." She said. Jerrie never took his eyes off his mate.
"Just....just call me if....." he stuttered.
"I will." Sue said softly. Then Jerrie left without another word. When Kanon saw him come outside she immediately went up to him "Are you ok?" she asked.
"I'm very worried about 'er." Jerrie told her "It's not like 'er not to tell me if she's sick...."
Kanon put her hand on his shoulder "I'm sure that she had a good reason not to. And I'm sure that she'll be fine." She gave him a warm smile.
Jerrie tried to smile back but it was difficult. Teazer was the love of his life and if she was to leave him, he wouldn't know if he could go on without her. After a long wait, Sue finally stepped out "Jerrie, she's asking for you." She said. Almost as she spoke, Jerrie ran right past her to see his mate. As he went in Sue joined the group waiting outside.
"We should leave them alone for a while." She said.
"What's wrong with her?" asked Kanon.
"It's what I expected. Morning sickness.....it's a curse. She's carrying a child."
"Oh dear....." said Kate.
Kanon thought for a moment "Hopefully.....Jerrie's child?"
"Oh that I am certain. Teazer would never stray from Jerrie's side and vice versa."
Kanon smiled. Kate however didn't look very happy, neither did Misto or Templeton. Sue bit her lip. Kanon looked around "Why so sad? I thought having a child was a GOOD thing!"
"Oh it is! I couldn't be happier for Teazer. This is what she desperately needs...."
"Then why so sad?"
Kate took Kanon by her arm and gently led her away from the group. "Kanon, Teazer is very afraid."
"Of what?" Kanon looked at Kate, puzzled.
Kate sighed. "When RumpleTeazer was an adolescent, she was so wild and carefree. She always was laughing, singing and having fun. She and Jerrie are very much in love, have been ever since they were small. They married at 16, very common among the Jellicles. Within a year of their marriage they had a child.....and they lost her. She was a stillborn. After that Teazer had gone into a deep depression, she wouldn't eat, or sleep. She never spoke to a soul, not even to Jerrie. She felt that her baby's death had been her doing. She was afraid she had done something very wrong. Hard as Jerrie tried, he couldn't get the idea out of her head. Teazer was very sick, she almost died, but Jerrie wouldn't let her. He and Sue were able to nurse her until she was eating by herself again. But for a long time she didn't speak to anyone but Jerrie. As time went by, she had almost returned to her normal self. But I still think that deep inside her she still believes she's to blame for the loss of her baby."
Kanon had listened in silence then she spoke "So she believes that if she were to have another child, and it was stillborn, it would be her fault. And the depression she would go into may be more harmful to her than last time."
"Yes....oh Kanon I don't think she could go through this again!" Kate by now had tears streaming down her cheeks. Kanon took her in her arms. "There is always hope Kate."
"Yes. And if this baby should live.....oh Kanon if it does...." Kate smiled. "I heard her singing yesterday, Kanon. She hasn't since her.....perhaps it's a sign."
Kanon reflected for a moment "My mother had two stillborns before me....She always said I was her little miracle. Maybe, just maybe, the little one on the way will be as lucky......"
(A/N: Review!)
"Kanon! Are you alright over there?!" Kate yelled across the ravine. She got no answer. The jellicles dropped their spears. The red from Kanon's eyes faded back to brown. "Poor Man..." she said looking at Shishio's body lying on the ground ".....May he find peace at last." Her friends were still calling from the other side of the ravine.
"Aye, luv. Are you alright?! We can't get over the ravine!"
"Kanon! Lass!"
Everybody was stunned when Kanon moved to close Shishio's lifeless eyes. Kenshin came into the courtyard looking for Kenji when he saw Kanon. "Miss Kanon?" he was shocked to see Shishio's body lying there. Kanon stood, suddenly her legs felt very weak and gave way. Kenshin rushed over and caught her before she fell. "Miss Kanon?" said Kenshin, very alarmed. Kanon opened her eyes and said very softly "I didn't give Kenshin.....I didn't.....didn't give up....." Kanon's head rolled back as she passed out. Her bracelet once again gave light and the ravine began to close up, letting the other able to cross. Kate ran the first chance she got, Sue and Misto close behind her.
"Is she alright, Kenshin?!" Kate asked. Tears were welling in Kenshin's eyes, he held Kanon tightly. Sue came closer "Oh dear....." she whispered as she examined Kanon's wounds. "They came very close to her neck."
"I believe she will be alright.....that I do..." Kenshin said.
"I know she will be fine. But she needs to be cleaned."
Teazer carried Kenji to them. The small boy was still very frightened "Aunty Kanon!"
"She will be alright, little one." Kenji's father said calmly. Kenshin knelt down, resting Kanon's head in his lap. It wasn't long however before Kanon opened her eyes.
"What happened?" she sat up, saw Shishio's body and panicked "Ahh! Why is he DEAD?? WHAT IS GOING ON!!!!" she had not remembered the battle. Everyone looked at each other, not sure of what to say to her.
"Shishio is dead....."
"That alone is clear enough....."
"There is nothing to be scared of now....." said Kenshin. Kanon dropped her head back onto Kenshin's lap.
"We should get her back inside." Said Sue.
"Yes" Kenshin agreed then turned to Aoshi "Would you?"
Aoshi nodded, picked up Kanon and carried her back to dojo. Kate was sitting on the ground still a bit shaky. Kenshin offered his hand to her "Miss Kate?" Kate smiled back and took his hand, he helped her to her feet. They all headed back inside, and saw Saitoh at the door. He was leaning against the door frame. Sue walked up and stood in front of him with her hands on her hips.
"And I told you that you shouldn't move...tsk tsk." She shook her head. Saitoh could only smile "I wont lie to you" he said "I'm not a very good listener." He laughed. Sue gave a small smile "Clearly."
Aoshi placed Kanon on a bed. A beautiful young woman walked in "Everyone stand back!" she said. Sano started to drool and the sight of this woman. Kate saw it and elbowed him in the ribs. Sano looked at her annoyed "What!?"
"You're Drooling!"
"So?"
Kate sighed. There was no point in talking to him. The woman brought out her medicine bag, she seemed a bit frustrated. "Everybody please stand back!" She started to treat the would on Kanon's neck. "And Sano, stop drooling!"
"Ha! I told you so!" Kate said to Sano, smiling. Sano grumbled.
"You there" The woman said pointing to Sue "Fetch me some warm water."
"Yes, Miss" Sue went to get the water. Meanwhile Templeton had his eyes on the beautiful woman. Kate saw the look in his eyes and whispered "Templeton! Behave yourself!" Templeton of course wasn't listening. He walked up to the woman. "May I have the pleasure of knowing your name mamsiel?" *
"Megumi Takani" she replied without looking at him. "I'm the medicine woman."
"Ah lovely name....." said Templeton. Megumi just continued with her task, not paying Templeton any mind. Kate rolled her eyes "Hun, the lady is BUSY!" she whispered. But Templeton continued to stare at Megumi "Yes.....I know....." he said.
"I NEED THAT WATER!!" Megumi shouted. Sue ran back in the room with the hot water. Megumi nodded her thanks and turned back to Kanon.
"So me lovely lady...." Templeton continued. Kate turned around, shaking her head. She really didn't want to watch this. Templeton was quite the charmer back home but here..... Megumi was listening but never turned her head from her work. She was becoming rather annoyed when Templeton didn't finish his sentence "What?!" she asked.
"Hmm...." trying to keep good conversation with this woman was harder then he thought "Where have you learned all this?" Templeton felt like slapping himself, it was the first thing that popped into his head.
"My Grandfather." Megumi answered shortly. She was washing out Kanon's neck wound. Sano was jealous that Templeton was getting all of what he thought was Megumi's attention. That was about the only thing that Kate thought was amusing.
"Well I must say, Mamseil Megumi, that you are doing a very wonderful job at your work."
Sue rolled her eyes when she heard this "He never showed any appreciation for my work at home."
Megumi started working on Kanon's shoulder. Kate took a handkerchief and waved it in front of Sano's face, he was again staring at Megumi "Sano...wipe your mouth, your still drooling!"
Sano had enough, he growled under his breath and left the room. Aoshi hadn't once taken his eyes off of Kanon all this time. Although he didn't show it, he was very worried about her. Kate took to pacing the floor, Misto had gone into deep meditation and she didn't want to disturb him. The room was now experiencing an awkward silence and it was beginning to get to Kate.
Teazer leaned back in the seat where she sat. She wasn't feeling well herself. "You alright there luv?"
"Yes...I need air..I'll be outside." She quickly got up and left. Kate watched her leave, curious. But she turned her attention back to Kanon "Megumi, any chance she's going to come around soon?"
"Not for a while....."
Kate sighed and sat down near Kanon. Finally Megumi stood up "Well that should do it." She said. Kanon's wounds were all cleaned and bandaged.
"Thank you, Miss Megumi" said Kenshin.
"Make sure she eats something when she wakes. And if she's in pain give her this with some water." She handed Kenshin some opium and headed out.
"Thank you again, Miss Megumi."
"Yes thank you very much."
Megumi smiled then left. Kate turned to Kenshin "What do we do now?"
"We wait, and pray."
Kate stood in the doorway, she prayed silently. She then looked around the room again. She remembered that Teazer had left. "Jerrie?"
"Ye?" Jerrie looked up.
"Where did Teazer say she was going?"
"I don know, Kate. She said she needed some air. She had been acting a li'le bit odd."
"Hmm....I'll go see if I can find her."
Teazer was out exploring the courtyard singing "Mother Earth rapped a veil of mist around her shoulders.....She sent a massage to me when she shook her deep earth boulders. Don't sleep while this time slips on by. Watch for the birds in the evening sky...Did you feel the roll of the blanket earth...." Tears started to run down Teazer's soft cheeks.
Kate was wondering around not far away from where Teazer stood. She was actually close enough to hear Teazer singing. Kate hadn't heard her sing for the longest time. She followed her voice.
"I heard Mother Earth call.....when she began to roll....she cries out to the winter land...." Teazer stopped short. Kate had found her and was watching. Teazer turned and saw her standing there. "Oh!" Teazer cleared her throat nervously "'Ello luv....."
"Hello RumpleTeazer." Kate walked slowly toward her "I'm sorry I....."
"No it's alright, Kate."
"I haven't heard you sing for a while....not since...."
"I don't usually care for people to 'ear me anymore." Teazer turned away.
"Does Jerrie know?"
Teazer shook her head "There are some things that even your mate shouldn't know."
Back inside the dojo, Kanon turned her head and groaned. She finally awoke. Kenshin had prepared some food for her. Templeton stood "How are you feeling lass?" he asked Kanon. He got another groan for a response.
"Aye....I believe that be ye anwsa." Said Jerrie, wringing his paw-like hands. He was beginning to worry about his mate.
Kenshin sat down a tray of food on a table next to the bed. "Miss Megumi said you should eat something, that she did." Kanon tried to sit up, but the pain was still intense so she lay back down. "Ow....." Kenshin also brought her medicine for her pain with some water. She took it then washed it down quickly with the water.
"So.....how is everyone?" Kanon smiled weakly.
"Could be worse." Said Misto, who had ended his meditation a few minutes before she woke. Jerrie nodded "I think you took the 'ardest blow luv."
Aoshi was very relieved to see Kanon awake again, he came and hugged her, careful not to hurt her. She smiled and hugged back. Then she suddenly remembered "Shishio?.....Where is Shishio!" she looked at the others around her.
Everyone was silent as they looked at each other. "Lass, you don't remember?" asked Templeton. She gave him a puzzled stare.
"He's gone, Kanon.....dead." said Misto.
"Dead.....?" She was shocked but still a bit relieved. "But....How?"
"By your own hands....."
Kanon starred at her hands "I-I killed him.....?" she looked to Aoshi "Is this true?" He nodded. Kanon sighed then nodded "Yes....I remember." She hung her head low.
"If you hadn't fought, he would have killed you." Said Misto. Kanon silently rose from the bed, not anymore feeling any pain and walked outside to the courtyard. She saw Shishio's body lying there. Aoshi followed her and stood at her side. "It's a shame" she said to him "If he wasn't insane, maybe this wouldn't have happened." Her eyes never left Shishio's body as she spoke. Aoshi didn't look at her either "You did what you had to do...." He said. Kanon and Aoshi looked at each other for a moment, then she finally broke down in tears. She leaned against him. Aoshi held her to comfort her, and she didn't mind.
Kate was walking back to the dojo, Teazer at her side. She saw Kanon and Aoshi together. "Funny...."
"What's that luv?" Teazer asked.
"Seeing those two together like that.....now I've seen everything."
Kenshin was watching Kanon and Aoshi from the doorway, smiling to himself. Kate walked up to him "It's nice to see her up and about." She said.
"Yes it is, Miss Kate. It's nice to see her happy at last as well, that is....."
"Mmm-Hmm" Kate fiddled with her silver cross that she wore on a silver chain.
"Ever since she was orphaned, there was always a hint of sadness about her. Now, that seems to have vanished....." Kenshin smiled.
At that moment Jerrie walked in the door and past Kenshin and Kate "oh excuse me....Teazer?"
Teazer turned and smiled faintly at her mate. Jerrie came down to her and put his arms around her. He took a nip at her ear "Are you well luv?"
"Mmm" Teazer leaned her head on his shoulder, unable to say was ailed her.
Kate watched them from the doorway with Kenshin and started to nibble her lower lip "Something is wrong....."
"Hmm? What is it Miss Kate?" asked Kenshin.
"It's RumpleTeazer.....she's not herself....I mean if anyone is there to cheer people up, it's Teazer. I haven't seen her this down since...." Kate started ringing her hands. "There had been only one time when I saw her this way....just one time."
Kenshin looked concerned but didn't interrupt.
"She's....she's lost her child....her only child....a stillborn."
Kenshin look at Kate with great sadness "I'm very sorry....But what would make her act this way now, Miss Kate?"
"I-I don't know. But I won't pursue this. I'll find out in time....when she's ready to talk." She said. Kenshin nodded in agreement.
Aoshi and Kanon parted from their embrace and walked towards Shishio's now very cold body. Kanon went to get a shovel as Aoshi picked up the lifeless form. Together they walked through the doors and out of the courtyard, taking Shishio with them. Kate was very puzzled. "Kenshin, why are they doing this?"
"They do this in respect to Shishio." He replied. "They've gone to burry him....."
Kate thought it over and nodded "Yes, I suppose everyone deserves a decent burial."
Kenshin went back inside, and Kate followed him. Misto stood as she walked into the room. "What's happening out there?"
"Only two love scenes and a funeral." said Kate.
Outside the courtyard, Shishio's burial is complete. Aoshi watched as Kanon forced Shishio's sword into the ground at the head of the grave to mark it.
That evening everyone was asleep at the dojo. Well almost everyone. Kate opened her eyes at the sound of somebody singing. She sat up, listening as the voice sang "Now I know it's true, my every road leads to you....and in the hour of darkness, your light got me through....."
Kate stood up and listened. The voice was coming from outside. She followed it. "I can't stand the distance, I can't dream alone, I can't wait to see you, yes I'm on my way home....I've seen every sunset, and with all that I've learned....ohh....it's you, I will always, always.....return...." The voice trailed off. Kate wondered outside to find that nobody was there. She looked about and shivered. Then she heard a flute play softly above her. It played the same song she had heard the voice sing. Startled Kate looked up "What in the world" she breathed, there she saw Kanon, sitting on the roof! She was playing her flute, her eyes closed, it was a beautiful melody.
Kate watched in silence, she didn't want to interrupt. Kanon suddenly stopped and sighed. She stared at the stars.
"Kanon!" Kate called up softly, not wanting to wake anyone else. Kanon looked down, surprised "Oh hello, Kate. Did I wake you? I'm sorry I'll stop....."
"No, no....it's nice. What is it?"
Kanon only smiled "Why don't you come up? The view is AMAZING!" she said. Kate smiled and climbed up to where Kanon sat. Once at the top she looked about her and gasped "Wow! It IS amazing!"
"Yeah" Kanon looked at the stars again. "Do you see that group of stars?" She pointed to a constellation above them.
"Yes....."
"Do you see the shape it makes?"
Kate looked at it carefully and saw "I see it! It's a dragon right?"
"That's right. They call it Draco. Long ago when man was young and Dragons already old, the wisest of the dragons took pity on man. He gathered together all of the dragons in the world, making them vow to watch over man, always. And at the moment of the wise dragon's death, the night became alive with those stars." Kanon pointed to the constellation again. "And thus was born the dragon's heaven and the only way for dragons to be allowed into this shining place, they must prove themselves worthy. That's why Draco, my friend, shared his life force with a dying young girl, to reunite human and dragon forever."
Kate looked at Kanon "Do you come up here every night?" she asked.
"Only when I need to think. I call it my sanctuary of thought. When I need to sort things out, I come here."
"Yes. I have a place back home where I like to go."
"Where?"
"It's a spot in the woods; there is a little stream there. It's a quiet little spot, and very calming. I often got there to play my mandolin or just to be alone. There is a beautiful clear view of the sky."
Kanon smiled. Kate smiled too, but then it faded as she thought of her next question, believing she already knew the answer "Kanon, who was the dying girl?" Kanon looked at her again, then smiled once more "Me." She said. "When I was little, I had a habit of getting into fights. In one of those fights, my opponent had a knife with him....I was stabbed through the heart."
Kate winced hearing this.
"Luckily for me, my friend Kitari Evenstar was around. She took me to Draco. He gave me half of his heart to make me whole....and we were close ever since." Kanon's smile faded slightly as she turned back to the stars "But Draco was killed....and he lives through me."
Kate hugged her cape around her. Kanon looked at her again "It's cold. You should go back inside."
"I suppose so. Are you coming?"
"I'll be there in a minute...."
"Alright" Kate nodded and climbed down the wall. Before going inside, Kate prayed again silently, then tucked her silver cross into her chemise and went back inside. Kanon began to play the flute again, the song was different, sadder this time, yet more beautiful than the last. It seemed to bare her soul at that moment in time.
Kate was going to lay herself down when she saw Misto sitting up. She whispered to get his attention he looked up. "Couldn't sleep?" he asked.
"Not really." Kate to sit next to him "Couldn't sleep either?"
Misto smiled "Well you know me; I was always a night owl." Misto then created a little sphere of light in his paws, the soft glow lit up his pale face. "There that's better."
Kate stared at the ball of light for a minute then asked "How come you don't do your magic anymore?"
"I do.....just not when people are around."
"That never used to bother you."
"I was a child, and never knew the dangers. I was foolish to show my powers to people."
Kate moved closer and let her head rest against his shoulder and nodded. "I understand." She said.
"I saw you coming from outside." Misto mentioned "What were you doing?"
Kate could hear Kanon was still playing outside "Hear that?"
"Yes, what is that?"
"That's my reason for wondering around outside, it's Kanon."
Misto listened silently for a moment "That's beautiful....."
"She is outside on the roof; she kind of startled me at first."
"Is she well?"
"She's just having some time to collect herself." Kate said before yawning.
"You should try to sleep."
"I know...."
Then Misto started to sing very softly "Clusters of crocus.....purple and gold.....blankets of pansies.....up from the cold.....lilies and Iris.....safe from the chill.....safe in the garden.....snowdrops so still....." As Kate falls asleep to the song, Misto laid himself next to her before falling asleep himself.
Kanon's song continued on through the night.
Morning made its way into the courtyard and light filled the room in which everyone slept. Teazer woke up and stretched her limbs. She looked down to see her mate was still asleep. She knelt down and started cleaning his ears "Wake up luv." She said. Jerrie's ears twitched. Kenshin had been up long before the others and was cooking breakfast. Sano was snoring so loudly it was amazing that he didn't wake the others. Saitoh however was already awake, but still in bed.
Jerrie stirred "Give...give me five more minutes mum...." He mumbled. Teazer sighed, but she wasn't giving up that easily.
Aoshi woke up to find that not all of them were present. He got up and went outside. He looked up to see Kanon on the roof. She wasn't moving. He quickly climbed up to get her "Kanon what are you doing up here?" Kanon was lying on her back. Aoshi gently helped her up "Aoshi?" Kanon said quietly.
"Yes it's me."
"Cold....." Kanon said shivering. Aoshi pulled her close to him to try to keep her warm. Kanon smiled and hugged him back, still shivering.
Back inside Teazer was still trying to get Jerrie to get up. Then she bit his ear a little too hard. "Ahh!" he bolted up right "All right! I'm up!"
"Luv you be sleeping like a log."
The shout woke up Sue and Templeton. "Good morning everyone" said Sue.
"Mornin'...." said Jerrie rubbing his ear. Kate and Misto were both heavy sleepers and didn't wake. Templeton rubbed his head "Whew! I had the strangest sleep....."
"Another dream?" asked Sue.
"Aye, I was out at sea with my father when Kanon came flying at our ship...."
"Kanon? She flew?" Sue asked.
"That's right."
"Maybe she be our guardian angel then." Sue got up to see Misto and Kate still sleeping and shook her head. She stepped over them. Sue turned back around when she suddenly heard a groan coming from Teazer.
"Oh.....excuse me...." Teazer said then headed outside as quickly as she could.
"Teazer?!" Jerrie got up to after her but Sue stopped him.
"No Jerrie....wait. She'll come back." She sat him back down again.
Templeton then decided to wake up Kate and Misto "Oy! You two! Tis dawn! Up, up, up!"
Kate waved her hand at him, her eyes still closed "I'm up!"
Misto sat up, causing Kate's head to roll onto his lap "Good morning"
"Uh-huh....." Kate really didn't want to get up.
In the courtyard, Teazer was picking up the pace as she walked. She needed to find somewhere.....quickly! Kanon was half way down the dojo wall when she spotted her. She jumped off the rest of the way and landed in front Teazer, startling her.
"Morning!" she greeted cheerfully
"Ah! Oh morning....."
Are you alright? You looked like you were in a hurry....."
"Oh I'm.....ohh...." Teazer's face was turning rather pale; she brought her paw to her belly.
"Teazer? Are you ok? You don't look so good."
When Teazer brought her other paw to her mouth, Kanon quickly took the hint and grabbed a bucket that was laying nearby and set it down for Teazer. The poor Jellicle doubled over and vomited into the bucket. Kanon walked behind Teazer and started rubbing her back gently "I thought you looked sick....." Teazer coughed and began to fall over, but Kanon caught her. "We should get you to a doctor."
"Mmm-hmm" was all Teazer could say.
"Sue! Come here quick!" Kanon yelled.
Sue came running as fast as she could Jerrie close behind her.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
"RumpleTeazer!" Jerrie feared for his mate "What happened?"
"She's sick" answered Kanon "She was vomiting."
Sue felt her forehead, but Teazer had no fever. Kanon propped her up against her.
"Let's get her inside." said Sue.
"'Ere I'll carry 'er." Said Jerrie and Kanon helped Teazer into his arms.
Aoshi came down the wall in hearing all this commotion. He helped Kanon off the ground "Is she alright?" he asked.
"I don't know what's wrong." She was about to take the bucket when she decided to pull a little prank. "Hey Yahiko!" she called "Come clean this mess!!!!" she then walked away with Aoshi, smiling evilly. After they were all inside they heard Yahiko yell "Oh Sweet Mother of *BEEP*"
Templeton walked out of the room "What is all the yelling...." Then Jerrie carried in Teazer "....ohhh alright." he said.
"Here, lay her down here Jerrie" Sue pointed to an empty bed. Kate was fully awake now and was at Sue's side before anyone could blink.
"What's wrong with her Sue?" she asked.
Sue was leaning over Teazer "I'm not sure yet Kate.....though I have a theory."
Teazer groaned.
"Hmm.....but if I'm going to test my theory, I can't have everyone present." She turned to everyone else, so they would get the idea.
"Um...I'll be outside." Templeton said and headed out the door.
"Me too, come on Misto" Kate pulled on his arm.
"Call if you need me Sue" Misto said.
"Come on Aoshi." Said Kanon. Aoshi left but Kanon hesitated "She will be alright....won't she?"
"If it's all what I think it is, she should be."
Kanon nodded and left. There was only one still in the room. Sue turned to him "I'm sorry Jerrie, you too." She said. Jerrie never took his eyes off his mate.
"Just....just call me if....." he stuttered.
"I will." Sue said softly. Then Jerrie left without another word. When Kanon saw him come outside she immediately went up to him "Are you ok?" she asked.
"I'm very worried about 'er." Jerrie told her "It's not like 'er not to tell me if she's sick...."
Kanon put her hand on his shoulder "I'm sure that she had a good reason not to. And I'm sure that she'll be fine." She gave him a warm smile.
Jerrie tried to smile back but it was difficult. Teazer was the love of his life and if she was to leave him, he wouldn't know if he could go on without her. After a long wait, Sue finally stepped out "Jerrie, she's asking for you." She said. Almost as she spoke, Jerrie ran right past her to see his mate. As he went in Sue joined the group waiting outside.
"We should leave them alone for a while." She said.
"What's wrong with her?" asked Kanon.
"It's what I expected. Morning sickness.....it's a curse. She's carrying a child."
"Oh dear....." said Kate.
Kanon thought for a moment "Hopefully.....Jerrie's child?"
"Oh that I am certain. Teazer would never stray from Jerrie's side and vice versa."
Kanon smiled. Kate however didn't look very happy, neither did Misto or Templeton. Sue bit her lip. Kanon looked around "Why so sad? I thought having a child was a GOOD thing!"
"Oh it is! I couldn't be happier for Teazer. This is what she desperately needs...."
"Then why so sad?"
Kate took Kanon by her arm and gently led her away from the group. "Kanon, Teazer is very afraid."
"Of what?" Kanon looked at Kate, puzzled.
Kate sighed. "When RumpleTeazer was an adolescent, she was so wild and carefree. She always was laughing, singing and having fun. She and Jerrie are very much in love, have been ever since they were small. They married at 16, very common among the Jellicles. Within a year of their marriage they had a child.....and they lost her. She was a stillborn. After that Teazer had gone into a deep depression, she wouldn't eat, or sleep. She never spoke to a soul, not even to Jerrie. She felt that her baby's death had been her doing. She was afraid she had done something very wrong. Hard as Jerrie tried, he couldn't get the idea out of her head. Teazer was very sick, she almost died, but Jerrie wouldn't let her. He and Sue were able to nurse her until she was eating by herself again. But for a long time she didn't speak to anyone but Jerrie. As time went by, she had almost returned to her normal self. But I still think that deep inside her she still believes she's to blame for the loss of her baby."
Kanon had listened in silence then she spoke "So she believes that if she were to have another child, and it was stillborn, it would be her fault. And the depression she would go into may be more harmful to her than last time."
"Yes....oh Kanon I don't think she could go through this again!" Kate by now had tears streaming down her cheeks. Kanon took her in her arms. "There is always hope Kate."
"Yes. And if this baby should live.....oh Kanon if it does...." Kate smiled. "I heard her singing yesterday, Kanon. She hasn't since her.....perhaps it's a sign."
Kanon reflected for a moment "My mother had two stillborns before me....She always said I was her little miracle. Maybe, just maybe, the little one on the way will be as lucky......"
(A/N: Review!)