In the six days that Kagome had fallen unconscious, Kouga and Ayame arrived in the Aoiro Estate with their two cubs, Kuzuri and Onami, so the estate was full to capacity, Nagemasu and his family returned to the South to reclaim the Ruling Title and settle the Southern Region.
Of course since Kyasuto's passing, the two bird youkai had, had no choice but to name their second child the new heiress to the ruling position to the South, her name was Chorui, who like her mother had blonde hair, and like her father, fire engine red eyes.
Hakari teamed up with Bankotsu and Jakotsu, who ordered the guard to begin reparations to the Border to the Southern Lands and start clearing out all the dead, it was something that could be done while their Lady rested and regained her strength.
The children hadn't been sent for yet, only Kagome could give that order, and Kimasu teamed up with Satomi to start interviewing new servants, they had some promising youkai individuals such as a Bear Youkai named Ukeire and a hanyou Water Nymph that went by the name Hoshitsu.
Since Akushu had died in the fight, which Nagemasu had felt horribly guilty about, he'd sent a promising individual, a fire elemental youkai, named Hisaki, for Yuutsuna, Shuri and Eri to interview to see if he was good enough to be the new member on the council.
Though Kagome would make all final decisions especially since not only did she have to replace, Ramei, but deal with Eki, who had turned out to be the traitor in their midst, and purge Hinoko from the darkness that still lingered in her system from Akuto.
Contrary to belief it hadn't faded once his physical body and soul had departed from the world, and only Kagome, Kaede, who was pregnant like Noko, didn't want to chance anything happening, and Toya wouldn't let anything happen.
And Miroku was still regaining his own spiritual energy from healing countless injured youkai, Sango was just glad that nothing bad had happened and Kohaku kept himself glued to his sister's side helping her walk as it got more difficult for her to do so with her twins.
Inuyasha was going back and forth between his brother and Father unable to sit idle while his mate was in dire condition and his pup wasn't with him, granted Fuketsu was only a few miles away guarded beneath a barrier, but only Kagome could lower it.
It was bound to happen eventually, Mitsumeru was the first one to snap at a regular maid youkai and sent her running in tears, of course the stupid female went crying to Kimasu and Satomi causing even more trouble.
"In Case You Haven't Noticed" the tiger youkai seethed with pure rage "I Just Lost My SISTER" she shrilled only thanking her lucky stars that they were in the middle of an obscure hallway and not by Kagome's door where the vixen was likely to unconsciously retaliate to the noise.
Knowing what it was like to lose someone precious "There, there dear, Natsumeru is still with us" Satomi strode forward with a soothing smile taking the tigers hand in her own and patting it gently "So long as you keep her memory close, she will never be forgotten" she stated kindly.
Losing her momentum as all the anger drained out of her in one fell swoop, Mitsumeru was unable to stop herself from sagging against the adult kitsune female that was her Lady's cherished mother "Thank you Satomi-sama" she mumbled quietly.
"Just remember you aren't the only one having a tough time, Ramei-san, Akushu-san, Deru-san, and a couple others were lost as well" Satomi pulled back a kind and knowing smile on her lips before finally releasing Mitsumeru.
Feeling guilty for not even thinking about the others who'd lost their cherished friends or twin, like she had, Mitsumeru wiped her eyes dry "I'm sorry for snapping at you earlier" she flashed the maid youkai an apologetic smile before returning to her post outside Kagome's door.
It wasn't long before another fight broke out, this time between some lower ranking guard members and Hiten jumped between them since Bankotsu and Jakotsu were otherwise busy dealing with clearing away the bodies still.
"HEY" he shouted and the guard froze as a whole "What's all the ruckus about, didn't the Captain's give you lot strict orders to start patrols" Hiten peered around looking tall and imposing and without another word to them, they scampered off.
With a sigh of relief, Hiten went to turn when his eyes were caught in a dark shade of brown eyes, cascading ebony hair that flowed down her back in waves and he swallowed thickly, Kikyo seemed similarly entranced by him as she couldn't look away from his red eyes.
"Aren't you the youkai named Hiten" Kikyo finally managed to speak up, they were in a random hall alone together and she just couldn't tear her eyes away from such a handsome male, youkai or not he was such a fine piece of the male species.
Hiten cocked an ebony brow "And you're the Lady Kikyo, Sister to Kaede-sama, and once keeper of the Jewel of Four Souls, until Lady Kagome came along after you're death" he recited each of the titles he'd heard thrown around since her revival.
Though he hoped he didn't sound like he was mocking her, because he definitely didn't think he'd be able to give her up "I am, and that all sounded awfully like a compliment" Kikyo actually smirked sauntering forward dark brown eyes pinned to Hiten's unmoving form.
"Not awfully like, they were Lady Kikyo" Hiten managed to scrimmage up enough confidence bow low and hightail it out of the hallway, leaving behind a snickering Kikyo, who decided that it might just be worth it to chase the elemental youkai male.
Kaede chose that moment to pass through the hall on her way to the kitchens and heard her sister giggling like a school girl with a new crush "Sister Kikyo are ye alright" she raised an ebony brow hazel eyes peering at her younger/older sister curiously.
Kikyo fanned herself as her cheeks flared in embarrassment "Oh I'm fine, I might have just found someone to fancy" she giggled again and Kaede blinked those hazel eyes, if there was one thing she was grateful for the transformation of her sister into a youkai was that her eye had been healed.
"Oh who, this Kaede is most curious" it wasn't every day her sister admitted that she had found a new fancy, after the disaster of her last relationship, Kaede had doubted Kikyo would ever fall in love again, but it seemed the fates had other ideas for the revived woman.
A grin spread across Kikyo's lips "Oh just an elemental youkai named Hiten and I've decided he shall be mine" she exclaimed happily, for once just letting herself be a normal woman and chase after a male, Kaede smiled.
"Good luck with that one Sister Kikyo, he's a little hard headed at times, but his heart is in the right place now" Kaede pulled her sister into a one armed hug before hurrying on her way to the kitchens to get a snack.
Petty fights broke out all over the estate and even Sesshomaru was having a hard time reigning everyone in, until on the seventh day a week after the battle with Akuto's army, a heavy aura of anger filled the air and the entire estate fell silent.
Touga's hackles raised as goosebumps formed on his flesh, he could practically hear the inner monologue Kagome most likely had going on as she stalked slowly down the halls, no doubt still extremely exhausted and probably not up to dealing with this yet.
Until then she was there before them standing in the middle of the Main Hall and gliding across the floor, deep bags beneath her eyes and a scowl on her lips, that oppressive aura of anger kept everyone quiet even the most talkative of youkai.
"Hakari" Kagome spoke softly barely raising her voice and the dragon youkai slunk forward bowing at the waist before his Lady "You and Ishi are to go and gather the children" she ordered her two dragon pack mates and without a single word of complaint left to do as she bid.
Then her hardened brown eyes turned on those gathered in the hall, "Everyone but Sesshomaru and Touga clear out, I want Eki that bastard before me now" she all but snarled, her guard, and those that knew her mood well scrambled for the exits.
Leaning back in her chair, Kagome began tapping a long nail on the arm rest, the sound was no doubt driving Touga and Sesshomaru mad, but she needed something to distract herself for awhile at least until Eki was stood before her.
Ten, fifteen, twenty, twenty-five minutes passed before the tanuki male she'd trusted with her kit was bowing before her "Lady Kagome" he smiled like he always did but this time Kagome could sense the deception within his tone of voice.
"I trusted you" her anger was to much and she launched from her chair and struck out slapping Eki harshly across the mouth, his head twisted to the side but he kept his brown eyes locked with her dark brown eyes that had darkened with fury, close to black, but not quite lost to her inner youkai.
His own flashed with rage "You're not the one who had listen to him day in and day out, whining about the stupide…." another slap snapping his head and Sesshomaru winced "Showing you're true colors now aren't you Milady" Eki straightened his spine standing tall and arrogant.
Kagome's own hackles rose at the challenge in the tanuki's voice "You dare to threaten me" she let out an inhuman growl that rumbled from deep in her chest to the back of her throat and echoed through the room sending shudders rolling down those listening outside in the hall.
Eki chuckled only to receive a fist to the stomach, "You're just like Yaramaru, using the Eastern Lands to get you're way" he growled back only to get scratched across the face, the bridge of his nose burned and tears gathered in the corner of his eyes from the pain.
If anything the words had the opposite effect "Fool, I love everyone in the Eastern Region, the ningen, the soon to be formed youkai village, everyone in this estate, I'd give my life for them" Kagome shrieked.
Neither Touga or Sesshomaru dared interfere, as Lady of the Estate it was her job to deal with traitors, Eki's brown eyes widened probably realizing the dire situation he'd suddenly found himself "I'm sorry" he breathed.
"No, I've been to nice before and look where that got me, that bastard was running amok with those bastards" Kagome tugged on her short hair eyes hardened but calming down mostly as she finally worked up the courage to deliver judgment.
Eki seemed to realize what she was about to say as he turned and tried to run, only to find himself unable to move an inch, there embedded in his arm was a dagger, he hadn't even felt it penetrating his flesh, and knew immediately that it was one of Kagome's immobilizing daggers.
She took a moment chest rising and falling from exertion barely being able to stand, then Kagome pinned her chocolate brown eyes on his unmoving form "For you're crimes…" she started losing her nerve for a moment.
Deciding that the least he could was lend her silent courage Touga stepped forward and placed his hand on her shoulder squeezing gently, for a split second Kagome glanced into his golden-amber orbs drawing on his strength.
"Eki, Tanuki, Personal Servant to the Heir of the House of Hearts and Future Lord of the Eastern Region, For You're Act of Betrayal of the Trust I Bestowed Upon You, Believing That You Would Treat My Child Right, Not Only That But Collaborating With The Known Enemy And Kidnapping A Member of My Pack" Kagome began again.
"I, Kagome Higurashi, Kitsune/Miko, Once Protector of the Jewel of Four Souls, Lady of the House of Hearts and Lady of the Eastern Region, hereby strip you of you're position as a servant in the Aoiro Estate, you're punishment for you're crimes is Death" she finished standing tall.
The weight of the words she'd just said settled on his shoulders like the entire world had just been placed upon them, then Kagome unsheathed Mizubyokiyogan-chiryo ho, Eki closed his eyes as the sword took on a blue glow, charged with purifying reiki.
And in just a matter of minutes he was no more, disintegrated, nothing more than ashes in the wind "Get a maid youkai in here and have this mess cleaned up, I'm going back to bed, I'm not to be disturbed" Kagome sheathed her blade spun on her heel and stalked through the main hall doors.
Before Touga could blame him "I did not teach her that" in a completely unknown move Sesshomaru threw up his hands cleared his throat in embarrassment and vanished in a blink of an eye, so when thirty minutes later, Shippou, Choko, Kokoa, Natti, Rin, Souta, and Soten.
Bounded through the main hall doors looking for their favorite kitsune, Touga cursed the fates and both of his sons for leaving him to deal with their exuberance alone as they fired questions at him at a rapid pace before staring at him expectantly.
The only question Touga managed to hear was where Kagome was "In bed, she's asleep, she said not to be disturbed" he recited her earlier words and immediately knew that her kit was going to throw a tantrum, Touga felt a headache coming on.
Just before Shippou could really start in earnest, Satomi, bless that woman, came gliding through the doors, and came to a stop before the young Master of the Estate "Shippou-kun, it is most unbecoming of an heir to the ruling position to throw a tantrum" she scolded lightly.
Shippou slumped his shoulders "But I really want to see Kaa-san, she didn't even come see me once" he pouted tears gathered in his evergreen eyes and it broke Satomi's heart to see such an expression on the young kit.
"You're mother had a lot to deal with, to make things safe for you here Shippou-kun, I'm sure she was thinking about you all the time, just as you were her right" Satomi smiled and the kit nodded shyly, because he'd tried to be brave for all the kids so they didn't get scared.
He took a deep breath "Okay, I'm going to go find Eki-san" Shippou grinned ready to see one of his favorite people in the estate, and Satomi shot Touga a panicked look, just before he pranced through the doors the older daiyoukai pulled him back.
Touga's expression couldn't be anything but nervous "Shippou some things happened while you were gone" he started trying to be firm but kind and not sure how well it was working out for him as Shippou frowned slightly wondering what was going on.
The kit was inquisitive for sure, no doubt something he'd picked up from Kagome "What kind of things Lord Touga" Shippou inquired hoping the inuyoukai would just spit whatever it was out and tell him so he could go off and find his tanuki friend.
It was Touga's turn to take a deep breath "Before the fight started, Hinoko-san was discovered kidnapped, that Tanuki, Eki was the culprit, he betrayed us all Shippou" he finished really trying not to sound so harsh.
"What, but why, why would Eki do such a thing" Shippou spluttered in shock, close to denying the entire thing, but somehow knowing it was the truth deep down, no one could fake that level of emotion and his nose didn't lie either.
Bending down on one knee to be almost eye level with the kit his soul mate had claimed as hers, Touga rested his hand on Shippou's head "Somethings are un-explainable Shippou, it's better to not ask questions" he sighed.
Knowing he wouldn't get anywhere, Shippou nodded feeling disheartened, first he couldn't see his mother and then Eki was banished for…..he spun on his heel "Was Eki banished like that one guard" Shippou reeled out.
Instantly he knew it wasn't the case, but neither his grandmother or Touga were willing to answer his question "Okay I'm just gonna go off and find Souta" Shippou turned hiding his tears and wobbling lip and walked as calmly as he could manage from the main hall.
Oh how he wished he could redo that moment over again "Kagome's going to murder me next for telling Shippou that much information" Touga pinched the bridge of his nose as his headache increased and the pounding in his skull brought tears to his eyes.
Satomi grimaced "Hopefully not, she can't very well be angry, her son is very knowledgeable and she taught him very well, besides we couldn't help our reactions" she patted the youkai on the shoulder before returning to her duties.
A couple hours later, Kagome woke for the second time that day feeling just a tiny bit more rested, though still not up to moving from her bed "Mitsumeru-chan" she called feeling positively horrible that she hadn't been able to prevent those deaths.
The tiger youkai poked her head into the room "Yes Lady Kagome" she asked softly in a steady clam voice, it actually surprised Kagome how well Mitsumeru seemed to be doing despite having just lost her sister less a week ago.
Inwardly Kagome shook her head, now wasn't the time "Could you send someone to the kitchens, and have them bring back a plate of meat, I'm really craving meat all of a sudden" she questioned, Mitsumeru gave her a smile and the door slid shut with a soft thwack.
Fifteen minutes later, she could have hit herself, of course he would come to see if she was alright, he always brought her, her food no matter what, so why had she thought it would be different this time, Kagome didn't have any more time to agonize over it as the door slid open quietly.
Zengo entered uncharacteristically quiet for once and behaving rather normal and she wished he would just act like himself instead of "Would you please stop acting like that" her voice cracked on the last word and his red eyes widened in surprise.
"Pardon me Lady Kagome" he bowed and popped back up with his usual pep, Kagome relaxed and Zengo realized that what she needed was normalcy not for everyone to try and walk on eggshells around her.
Just when he thought about leaving, Kagome swallowed her latest bite "How is everyone doing, what about Shippou-kun has he found out about Eki" it was difficult for her to ask because she was hurting just as much.
A soft sigh "Everyone's getting along, for the first few days it was difficult but after some pep talks with you're mother, amazing woman that kitsune, just like you, Mitsumeru and Ni are doing well" Zengo smiled accurately guessing what Kagome was asking truly.
"That's a relief and Shippou" Kagome raised her head to look the bird youkai in the eyes "And where's Nagemasu and his family" she prodded a tiny bit of anger leaked into the second question and Zengo shuddered lightly.
Deciding to go with the easier question first "Young Shippou-sama has figured out that Eki is no longer among us, at first he was upset, but he seems to have befriended a young bear youkai, Ukeire" he started with a smile.
Her shoulders relaxed just a tiny bit more, and Zengo winced knowing the next part was going to make her tense again "And Nagemasu and his family returned to the South, something about a naming ceremony for his second born child, so that she will be recognized" he sighed.
Kagome's chocolate brown eyes widened slightly before returning to normal, "Thank you Zengo, you're my second confidant here" she returned to her meal and ate every scrap of meat on the plate, by the time she was done, her eyes were drooping once more in tiredness.
Having wasted enough time dawdling in Kagome's personal rooms, Zengo took the plate "Get some more rest Lady Kagome, you need it" he ordered gently and without fuss the vixen crawled beneath her thick covers on her futon and drifted into another resting sleep.
The next time Kagome woke up it was to chiryo-ho humming and vibrating next to the bed, she shot up from her futon grabbed up her sword and growled low in her throat warning whoever it was off "Kagome-chan" Sango's familiar voice greeted her ears.
Body relaxing at the obvious non threat, Kagome set chiryo-ho down and turned to face the slayer "Hey Sango-chan" she yawned feeling more rested and glanced out the window seeing the sun creeping over the mountain bathing the lands in it's invigorating light.
"I'm sure you're hungry, but you really need to come see this Kagome" Sango grasped the kitsune's wrist gently waddling forward, her stomach huge, and led her friend down the hall to the main hall, where everyone had gathered.
Once she was seated in the chair up on the dais, Kagome became decidedly even more confused as to what exactly it was she was supposed to be seeing, her thoughts were interrupted as Sesshomaru, Nagemasu and Yaro walked up the few steps to where she sat.
Nagemasu cleared his throat and pulled out a scroll "To start off this momentous occasion, I'd just like to say, how amazing this kitsune is" he gestured to Kagome "Not only did she save my life, but Lady Kagome put a plan in place to prevent Akuto from getting what he wanted" he began.
"She fought alongside her strongest warriors, leaving her most trusted in the Aoiro Estate, though some have fallen such as Ramei, Deru, Akushu, they will always remembered" Nagemasu still felt awfully guilty about Akushu's death.
"My son included, Kyasuto, along with several others" he went on rattling off names and Kagome realized what they were doing, and she felt warm inside because of their efforts to get passed this horrific event so they could all move on to bigger, better things such as settling down and starting a family with their loved ones.
Finally it seemed Nagemasu was nearing the end of his speech, "So to commemorate those that lost their lives, I've commissioned this statue in Honor of them, each name engraved on the wood carving, preserved to withstand the effects of time" he nodded.
And from the back of the hall a large wooden statue carved in a heart with several names inscribed upon it's surface was wheeled forward "It's yours Lady Kagome" Nagemasu bowed "Also, I've sent someone I believe will be hopefully a suitable replacement for Akushu" he finished.
Unable to hold back any longer, Kagome pressed her hand over her mouth and choked on her tears "I….I don't know what to say, thank you Nagemasu" she waved her other hand as tears streamed down her cheeks onto the marble flooring.
No one dared say a word over their Lady's lack of control over her emotions, "Don't thank me Lady Kagome, but perhaps we can sit down one of these days in the near future and draw up treaty plans" Nagemasu smiled sheepishly.
"I daresay my naive daughter would benefit from knowing you" he gestured to the little blonde standing next to his mate and Kagome nodded not being able to say much more due to how much she was crying.
Then Nagemasu took a step back, and Yaro took his turn "When I first met you, I thought you were a joke" he grimaced and Kagome frowned "But to find out that you actually can lead people into battle and succeed, it's a shock" Yaro continued.
"In honor of the fight, I present this to you Lady Kagome, an official crown, granted it's not made of gold, but you should have received this months ago, when you first had you're coronation" he held out a wooden box.
As her personal maid, Mitsumeru strode forward and took the box and knelt before her Lady opening the box to reveal a silver band with a single blue heart that fit right over her heart crest "Please Take It Milady and Place it Upon you're head" Mitsumeru ordered gently.
With slightly shaking hands and more tears pouring out of her eyes at the emotional speeches she was being given, Kagome lifted the crown, well more like a band out of the box and it was closed a second later, then with a deep breath, that silver band was placed upon her head.
It fit like a glove and she didn't think her heart could take much more shock that morning, in all the chaos she'd forgotten she was hungry, but as sure as Kagome was that her name was Kagome Higurashi, she also knew that whatever was going on hadn't happened yet.
Because Sesshomaru had yet to speak and he'd been staring at her with a proud look in those golden amber eyes, a soft smile playing on the corners on his lips, Kagome snapped her eyes towards Yaro "Thank you Lord Yaro, I'll treasure it for years to come" she nodded.
A ghost of a smile curved his lips upwards before it faded "It is rightfully yours, it was wrong of me to keep hold of it until now" he tilted his head downwards in respect to the kitsune female before taking a step back.
Now Kagome had no choice but to pay attention to Sesshomaru as he cleared his throat in that way "You've had a long and hard journey, from simply raising a barrier, to learning how to fight, and finally leading an entire region" he began that same proud look still in his eyes.
"I watched you grow from that hopelessly shy ningen who use to cling to Inuyasha like a lifeline desperately wanting to be loved, into the kitsune you are today, well over a year ago" Sesshomaru took a deep breath and unrolled his scroll.
Then he said the words that really started the waterworks "By not only my decision, but Lord Yaro, and Lord Nagemasu, who has reclaimed the title as Lord over the South" Sesshomaru paused to take another breath.
"We the Lords of the North, West and Southern Regions Decree, The House of Hearts a Noble House, worthy to Rule over the East for years to come as it now has well over seven known members with another on the way" he gestured to Kaede who smiled sheepishly.
But Sesshomaru wasn't finished "As you are Sister of This Sesshomaru's Heart, a blue rose bush, because you've attained the seemingly impossible" a small but young bush was cartwheeled forward and Kagome's eyes widened.
Some smiled as the kitsune threw herself at the younger inudaiyoukai who'd been with her since the very beginning of her journey and cried into his haori "Oh Sesshomaru you jerk making..hic..cry I swear" she blubbered.
He stood there awkwardly patting her back until a loud rumble filled the otherwise silent room, Kagome jerked back in surprise and warily stared down at her stomach, her cheeks turned bright red and Sesshomaru shook his head "I'm not surprised" he commented.
It started the round of laughter lightening the somber mood and Kagome smiled brightly, Zengo chose that moment to step forward and announce, "If you're ready, Brunch is ready" he called and Kagome was the first one to the main hall doors.
How she even moved that fast no one would even hazard a guess because they knew better than to bother the kitsune on her way to eat, otherwise they risked losing a limb if she decided that she'd rather eat them instead of sit down.
Halfway through Brunch, Satomi leaned forward in her chair "Kagome dear, what do you intend to do once you're finished" she didn't want to bother her daughter, but things needed to get done otherwise it was going to take awhile before she could go out on her honeymoon.
"First I'm going to spend some time with those kids, especially Shippou" Kagome nodded her head at the group of children at the other end of the table eating with the others for the day, probably not sure if they could approach her yet.
Satomi nodded gesturing for Kagome to continue "Then start interviewing new maids and whatnot to fill in the now empty positions left behind, probably hold a meeting with the guard and it's two Captains return the patrols to the original patrols and whatnot" she ticked off.
"Deal with whatever problem that popped up while I was busy taking care of Akuto and resting, relieve those fifteen miko from their positions in the village, send a message to Keshi-san and Mikaku-san that they can begin building the youkai village" Kagome continued.
Not having realized that there was actually so much to deal with, "Let me handle hiring the new maids, and you can just assign them to any position you see fit" Satomi rattled off not wanting her daughter to be loaded down with duties, when she was still supposed to be resting.
Grateful to have such an amazing mother "Thanks Mama" Kagome sighed softly digging into her meat sandwiches, the gnawing hunger was slowly going away, but that was only if she was eating some form of meat.
"Don't mention it dear, why don't you have Bankotsu-san and Jakotsu-san write up the patrol times, surely they know what they use to be right" Satomi nudged the cobalt blue eyed man in the ribs and nodded at Kagome.
Bankotsu nodded "Yeah Lady Kagome, me and Ja remember the old patrol schedules, the groups and whatnot so it shouldn't be to hard, and if something's wrong we can tweak it however way you want" he explained.
Kagome's eyes softened "I don't think I'll be able to survive for the rest of the day" she joked tiredly and Jakotsu cracked up a little making her giggle albeit quietly "Ugh" Kagome lowered her head to the table with a soft sigh.
Then her head shot up as Hakari entered the hall late "Sorry for my tardiness, but I've just been out dealing with the priestesses in the ningen villages, I told them they could go home now that the fight was over" he bowed his head apologetically.
"I also…took the liberty of handling any problem that has popped up and dealt with you're paperwork, alongside of notifying Keshi-san and Mikaku-san that they can begin construction for the their youkai village" Hakari cleared his throat in embarrassment.
Her eyes narrowed suspiciously and Sesshomaru turned his head away subtly avoiding her knowing gaze, Kagome didn't call the inudaiyoukai out on his meddling ways because truly she really needed all the help she could take.
Fifteen minutes later, Kagome was chowing down the last of her sandwich and Inuyasha approached her reminding her that there was one thing no one else could handle "Give me a few minutes okay Inuyasha to deal with the children" Kagome smiled kindly.
"Alright, I'm going to return to the medical wing" Inuyasha nodded his head and with Fuketsu cradled in his arms, turned and left the dining hall, becoming a father had really mellowed the inuyoukai hanyou out.
Kagome took a deep breath and before any of the children could leave the hall and go off and play, she stood before them, Shippou jumped and kept his head down avoiding her gaze, while Choko, Kokoa and Natti stared at her in surprise.
Soten and Rin held hands looking more nervous than before and Souta gulped softly "Aren't you going to say hello" Kagome asked kindly and it started the crying, "Oh come now" she sighed sadly lifting Shippou into her arms first.
"Kaa-san" he cried burying his face in her neck, screw putting on a brave face anymore, his little arms wrapped tightly around her neck, Shippou breathed in Kagome's scent, of lilies, raspberries and chocolate like always and he knew he was home.
And since there was more than enough room in her arms, "Soten-chan" Kagome nodded and the little female thunder demon clambered up next to Shippou, "There, there now everything's going to be okay" she soothed gently as Hiten watched her closely.
"We thought we would never see you again" Soten latched on gripping the kitsune tightly, sure the female demoness wasn't her mother, but she sure acted like it sometimes and she had really missed Kagome a lot.
A smile curved Kagome's lips upwards "I suppose it might have seemed that way, but in all this time all I thought about was making the estate safe for all you children, not a day went by that I didn't think about each and everyone of you" she hugged the two for all she was worth.
Sniffles came from Shippou and he pulled his head back finally looking at her with tear filled evergreen eyes "Eki was a traitor" Shippou asked and Kagome nodded solemnly "Okay, I'm really happy to see you again Kaa-san" he sniffled once more before all tears vanished.
"This Kagome is happy to see you to Shippou-kun, my precious little kit" Kagome breathed in his familiar scent before sitting both children on the floor, next was Rin and Souta and they charged into her arms squeezing her tightly around the stomach.
"Rin has missed you lots Kagome-nee-chan, though Totosai is funny, he sometimes got weird" Rin giggled not crying like the others, she should have suspected it, because the girl was Sesshomaru's ward after all.
And she definitely wasn't going to ask what Rin meant by weird, "He taught me how to make some weapons to" Rin pulled back revealing the little sword hanging against her hip before hugging her again.
Giggling softly, Kagome lifted the girl up and hugged her tightly first "Run along now and go see Sesshomaru, I'm sure he's missed you, or perhaps Jaken" she sent the little girl off before turning to Souta who had yet to say anything.
"Boy am I glad to be back here Sis, no matter how good Totosai is, he just didn't understand us very much" Souta sniggered and Natti rolled her eyes "Anyway when will lessons start up again cause it sucked not being able to train on that mountain" he pouted.
Not having expected the question so soon especially since she still had so many things to do, Kagome blinked "Souta, Girls, there are so many things to do right now, I'm not shoving you to the side" she started not wanting to hurt their feelings.
Choko, Kokoa and Natti crowded around her, just grateful to be within Kagome's presence again after that long month of being stuck on Totosai's Mountain, "Are you saying it might be a long time before training starts up again" Kokoa dared to ask.
"Yes" it was the only plausible answer to give "Plus, once everything has been straightened out, I plan on going on a trip with Lord Touga as promised, so it might be a few months" Kagome grimaced hoping they didn't wig out.
And then it was suddenly as if they remembered "What about Lady Kaede, would she be a good substitute sensei" Choko blurted out not wanting to have to wait for months upon months to begin training again.
Kagome frowned "I'm afraid that with Lady Kaede's current condition, she won't be doing much of anything, my Granny's pregnant with a kit" she sighed running through all the talented individuals in the estate "But..if you give me a few days, I might find someone" she finished.
Natti nodded "Okay, we'll we are going to go off and practice, we've been sitting still for so long and my muscles feel all stiff" she grabbed her sisters by the hands and physically drug them out the dining hall leaving Souta behind.
"Hey wait up" he realized "See you later Sis" Souta waved dashing after the triplet sister priestesses in training, Kagome blinked again and rubbed her forehead tiredly as Hiten who'd been waiting to speak to her for awhile approached.
"If you'd like I could talk to Lady Kikyo for you and possibly convince her to help teach those girls, while I help with the physical aspect of their training" he offered knowing she had to run off and purge Hinoko of the darkness.
Surprised the thunder demon had offered, Kagome peered at him curiously, but she didn't pick up on any nervous shifting "Okay thanks Hiten" she smiled glad that she had some great pack members before turning on her heel and heading down the medical wing.
Hojo and Azayaka met her at the entrance "Are you sure you're up to this Lady Kagome" Azayaka asked taking not of how tired the vixen was, "I'm sure it can wait another day" she prodded but of course Kagome shook her head.
"Is there anything I can do to help, I've been working on channeling my spiritual energy into my hands, a difficult task when you've never done it before, but I think I might be able to help" Hojo offered/asked hoping he'd be able to help.
Kagome simply shook her head "I'll be fine, and if we let it sit to long, we might not have another day, and maybe next time Hojo" she waved their concerns and questions off before sliding behind the curtained off section in the room.
Inuyasha craned his neck around to peer at her all while feeding Fuketsu, "I'm not sure Akuto put any darkness in her head" he spoke softly sharing his suspicions with his oldest friend, Kagome gave a start at that and frowned.
"If it's not there where else could it be" Kagome asked stepping up to the bed and placing her fingers on Hinoko's temple already filled with purifying reiki, but when she searched for the darkness, there was none.
Lowering his gaze to Fuketsu "Check her heart, you might find it there" Inuyasha choked out, it was the only place Akuto would figure Kagome wouldn't be able to purge his darkness from, because it was more than difficult.
Taking his words to heart, she slid her hand to rest against above Hinoko's breast where her heart lay and sunk her awareness into the inuyoukai hanyou female's body, immediately Inuyasha's suspicions were confirmed "Hojo I might need you're help after all" Kagome called.
The brown haired male appeared at the order "What can I do Kagome-san" Hojo nodded his head politely at Inuyasha who looked extremely panicked and was rocking Fuketsu back and forth in his arms to keep himself as calm as possible.
An ofuda was held out "Can you charge this with you're spiritual energy" Kagome asked and Hojo took it, a couple minutes later it was glowing a light blue, Hojo returned the ofuda and Kagome held it up to her eyes.
"Azayaka" Kagome asked the demoness appeared "This has to go perfectly, no mistakes" she warned before sharing her plan "All three of us will keep Hinoko from dying" she started and Inuyasha shook not liking this.
He stood a second later "I…I can't watch" he choked out and sped from the curtained off section in the room, leaving the medical wing far behind, swallowing back her own tears and shoving back her own fear, Kagome took a deep breath.
"This will purge the darkness from her heart" she held up the ofuda and Hojo's eyes widened realizing what she was about to say "And us three, with Azayaka directly healing her heart, will heal her body as it tries to wither away" Kagome finished.
It was silent for a moment "Okay" Azayaka nodded placing her hand over Hinoko's heart, with her unique healing powers, everything should go smoothly, the ofuda was placed beneath her hand, and she tensed, it was all about timing.
Not sure if this was the right thing to do, Hojo took a reassuring breath, not once since he'd started living in the past had any of his patients died, and he sure as heck wasn't going to allow one to ever die either "Let's do this, Azayaka, Kagome" he nodded in determination.
Kagome took a deep breath herself and placed her hands on Hinoko's chest already flooding with healing reiki, "Okay Hojo" she nodded seriously and his spiritual energy flooded Hinoko's heart, Azayaka immediately started healing the damage it caused.
And thirty minutes later with the three of them working together the darkness was purged from Hinoko's heart and no serious damage had been caused to the unconscious female "We did it" Azayaka pulled back amazed at what they'd been able to pull off together.
"Hey Azayaka-chan, think if we ever had a child together once we get passed our courting, he or she would be capable of healing anything" Hojo wrapped his arms around Azayaka's waist and pulled her closer pressing his forehead against hers.
Her cheeks flushed but a happy smile played on her lips "Yeah, they'd be a genius not to mention they'd be spiritually talented as well" Azayaka breathed in Hojo's scent spices and herbs before Kagome cleared her throat hesitantly.
"While I hate to interrupt and you can carry on in a moment, could one of you fetch Inuyasha from the hall" she smiled sheepishly feeling horrible about disrupting their much needed moment, though neither of them looked to upset about it.
Fifteen minutes later, Inuyasha with Fuketsu held in his arms still barreled through the doors of the medical room, with Hojo and Azayaka on his heels "You did it, you saved Hinoko-chan" he breathed rushing forward and wrapping his free arm around Kagome.
Glad that she'd been able to save at least one person, Kagome beamed at the hanyou "Don't mention it, and Hojo and Azayaka-san deserve some of the credit as well, anyway I'll leave you guys alone now" she nodded her head politely.
Touga met her in the hall "You're going back to bed aren't you" he chuckled holding out his arm and she leaned heavily against his shoulder when she took it, practically dragging her feet as he steered her in the direction of her rooms.
"Yes, though I haven't done much, dealing with emotional children and using my reiki not that I had much, put a drain on my body, I'm sure in a few hours I'll be up rearing to go again" she laughed softly enjoying the peace again.
He wanted to ask what she had planned for them, but didn't, there was still so much to do after all "Just get some rest okay" Touga smiled patted her hand and she released his arm heading into her to go back to sleep for awhile.
Like Kagome promised, a few hours later, she was up moving around the estate helping out with various things, currently she was sitting in the main hall Hakari at her side "Oh Kagome-chan" Ayame called entering through the side doors probably having been out in the gardens.
Perched in the female wolf demon's arms were two little cubs "Ayame-chan I hadn't noticed you guys were here" Kagome leaped from the dais and Hakari chuckled "Aw they are so cute" she squealed softly.
Ayame grinned "Yeah, their a handful though, the one with red hair and blue eyes is Kuzuri and the one with black hair and green eyes is Onami" she introduced her boys to Kagome "Would you like to hold them" Ayame offered.
Eyes wide and full of excitement "Are you sure Ayame-chan" Kagome hesitated for a second and the female wolf demon nodded and held out one of her cubs soon Onami was snoozing the day away in her arms "Aw adorable" she sighed softly hugging him for just a moment longer.
"When are you going to have some kits of you're own" Ayame teased when Onami was curled up against his slightly older brother again, Kagome jumped and her cheeks turned beet red in embarrassment causing Hakari to chuckle.
It took the kitsune a few minutes to answer "Right now I'm focusing on fixing the damage that was dealt, so filling in positions that are now vacant, then maybe afterwards Touga and I are going to go on a trip together" Kagome mumbled shyly.
Smiling at that Ayame giggled softly "That sounds wonderful, Kouga is a jerk sometimes, this is the first time I've been allowed to leave the caves" she pouted sending a glare over her shoulder as the okami himself entered through the doors.
Kagome about lost it as Kouga stared at his mate in confusion, before she could start laughing, Kimasu and Satomi entered the hall "Pardon me Lady Kagome, but we've got the list for new maids and what not" Kimasu approached.
Seeing that Kagome had to mostly return to her duties, Ayame with her two wolf cubs turned and exited through the side doors motioning for Kouga to follow her just as Kagome took the list being held out to her and read it over.
Ten minutes later, she leaned back "On that list two stand out to me, Hoshitsu and Ukeire, can you tell me anything about them" Kagome questioned liking the fact that her mother and Kimasu had put a lot of thought into the list.
Her mother stepped forward "Of course dear, Hoshitsu is a water nymph hanyou, she's very sweet but also has a mischievous side, she has dark blue hair and light blue eyes, and she'd be able to protect you in case of an emergency as well for her water abilities" Satomi listed.
"As for Ukeire, he's a young bear youkai, with dark brown hair it's so dark it's almost black and chestnut brown eyes, he's very kind and gentle and Shippou-kun has taken a great liking to him" she finished.
Kagome stood there for a moment, "I'd like to meet with them and talk to them, I can't take anymore chances where my son and all of us are concerned" she finally decided heading back to her chair and sitting down.
Kimasu took the initiative and headed out into the hall, five minutes later she returned with a young bear youkai and a very tall demoness that couldn't be anything other than a water nymph, though they both seemed extremely nervous at meeting her.
"Now introduce yourselves" Kimasu huffed when they stood there staring at Kagome as if she was an alien from another planet, Hoshitsu jumped at the command before curtsying towards her new lady and mistress.
Ukeire bowed low following directions hesitantly, obviously new at the entire being a maid thing "I'm Ukeire Milady" he started in soft voice "I'd be honored to serve you in anyway you see fit" he tried to smile but it came out nervous.
And Kagome knew instantly that it was just his nerves and not because he had some grand agenda being there "Ukeire-san" she nodded politely "Been hearing that my Shippou-kun is quite taken with you" Kagome admitted.
The bear youkai's chestnut brown eyes lit up in happiness "Oh yes Milady, Master Shippou is very astute and kind to me" Ukeire beamed lighting up the room with his pureness and Kagome nodded in acceptance.
"Then I trust you'll watch over him as his personal maid correct Ukeire-san" she said softly and the bear nodded eagerly "You may go" Kagome giggled softly as he sped out of the hall to share the news with Shippou.
All that was left was Hoshitsu "Milady, I am known as Hoshitsu, I am a Water Nymph, my mother was youkai and my father ningen, both have passed on" she curtsied again feeling more nervous than before, because Kagome's eyes locked with her own.
She ran a critical eye over the young demoness "My condolences" Kagome sensed no deception in Hoshitsu being able to tell if anyone had any darkness in them, her estate was bursting at the seems with purity.
"Thank you Milady, do you think there is any position that might suit me, I'm very good at folding clothes and cooking and a lot of other things" Hoshitsu asked shyly, the opposite of how she usually was.
Kagome smiled "I might have a position open, how would you like to become my hand maid along with Mitsumeru here" she gestured to the tiger youkai, who perked up at the idea of having another female to talk to again.
Hoshitsu nodded grabbing onto the offer like a leech "Yes if you don't mind that is Lady Kagome" her light blue eyes were pleading with Mitsumeru's green ones to accept her, she couldn't take it if she got kicked out of the estate for not being useful.
Mitsumeru bit her lip wanting to give the nymph a chance, Kagome twisted her head around to meet her gaze and she nodded "Then come up here and stand next to Mitsumeru" the kitsune ordered and Hoshitsu scrambled up the steps.
Glad that meeting was over with and knowing there were several more as Kozui and a youkai that she'd never seen before burst through the main hall doors whispering heatedly to one another "Lady Kagome" Kozui bowed once they were stood before the dais.
She raised an ebony brow "I make it a point to memorize interesting individuals and I know most if not all youkai in the estate, how is it that I do not know you" Kagome turned her attention on the male hoping an answer would come forward.
Kemono swallowed realizing why it was Kozui had wanted him to stay behind now "Well during the fight last week, and because I wanted nothing to do with taking up arms against you, I switched sides in the heat of battle" he started.
Her eyebrows shot into her hairline "Wait, you mean you abandoned Akuto simply because you didn't' want to fight against me" Kagome asked incredulously and Hakari pressed his lips together having already heard the story as well.
"Well yes essentially plus Kozui here is my true mate, the one I was meant to be with for all eternity" Kemono nodded scratching the back of his neck sheepishly as the female next to him snorted and rolled her brown eyes.
Not sure what to say to that and knowing that Kozui had an attachment to the male, Kagome leaned back in her chair thinking it over "Have you considered joining the guard here in the estate" she finally asked.
He nodded quickly so as not to keep her waiting "Of course" Kemono stated smoothly trying so very hard not to loose his temper at what he thought were very annoying questions, he must have managed it because Kagome turned to the dragon on her right side.
"Has Bankotsu or Jakotsu mentioned anything about the patrols yet, or about a new batch of potentials" she questioned and Hakari nodded "Good I want those new potentials in here now along with both Head Captains" Kagome ordered.
With his orders, Hakari slunk from the main hall and thirty minutes later returned with Bankotsu, Jakotsu, and a handful of interesting youkai individuals "You needed us Lady Kagome" Bankotsu strode forward unafraid.
Kagome flashed the man a small smile "First congratulations, I heard about Noko, and second would you be willing to take Kemono into you're guard, finally have you had a chance to see what those guys can do" she gestured to the youkai standing around.
At the question, Jakotsu grinned "We are always looking for new and interesting youkai to train in the guard, and yes, we have, one of them is very interesting Sanagi front and center" he ordered and the spider youkai came forward silently.
"Introduce yourself soldier" Bankotsu commanded impressing Kagome with the level of ease he did it with, all that training must be really coming in handy for the man who had mated/married a youkai female with a child on the way.
At the order, Sanagi bowed his head, light brown locks reaching his chin in a strange hairstyle before rising properly, lavender eyes locked with the Lady of the Eastern Region "I am Sanagi, as you can see I am a spider youkai" he started.
Jakotsu rolled his eyes, that one was way to wary and distant towards most, hopefully Kagome wasn't to put off by his attitude "And tell me of your abilities, how good are you at strategy" the kitsune prodded.
Not having expected the mini interrogation but somewhat enjoying it all the same, Sanagi nodded "I can use my web to entrap enemies, much like those moth youkai, and while I'm not very good at strategy I'm not opposed to learning" he explained.
Kozui felt the eyes on her a second later "If you don't mind Lady Kagome, I wouldn't mind showing him the ropes to being a great military strategist, I do need a new partner" she asked without looking, the spider youkai seemed promising after all.
"Very well, Sanagi-san, Kozui will be you're mentor in learning how to be the second military advisor" Kagome relented dismissing the guard and all those in the hall to relax, now that all pressing matters had been taken care of for the time being she could relax again.
Or not as Shuri, Yuutsuna and Eri came into the hall with an obvious elemental youkai trailing behind them, "That's the youkai, Lord Nagemasu sent to replace Akushu" Hakari explained when Kagome stared at him in confusion.
"Lady Kagome, I daresay we should have this youkai take the spot on the council, he is quite unique and he fits in well among us" Shuri exclaimed once they were stood before the dais that Kagome sat on.
The kitsune looked the youkai male over, taking note of his sunset red hair and orange eyes "What is you're name, and you're ability" Kagome asked ready to just sit back and enjoy the peace and not have to deal with anything for awhile.
"Hisaki, and Fire, I swear to fully commit to being in a position on the council" Hisaki introduced himself calmly, remaining rather collected in her presence where most would get nervous meeting her for the first time.
Kagome glanced to Shuri and Yuutsuna, Eri standing off to the side letting the two youkai handle the newest youkai and they both nodded "It's decided then, you'll be a great help on the council no doubt" Kagome decided.
And before anyone else could come interrupting her relaxation, Kagome stood "I'm heading back to my rooms" she called to Hakari with Mitsumeru and Hoshitsu on her heels, the latter of the two looking confused as to why her new lady was leaving her chair.
Though Mitsumeru gladly explained it to her, that if there was nothing else pressing to do for the rest of the day, Kagome often relaxed in her personal gardens outside her room, or wandered the estate, with a new understanding, Hoshitsu nodded.