Scott and Inuyasha left their room, entrusting Peter with the task of tidying it up and changing the sheets. They made their way to the dining room, but before they could enter, they were intercepted by Sesshomaru, who wore a mischievous grin.

Despite the odd look, the pair merely wished him a good morning and proceeded. Sesshomaru responded in kind, and they all entered the dining room together.

Just as they were about to settle at the table, Adrian, in a burst of youthful exuberance, jumped and tackled Inuyasha to the ground, nuzzling affectionately against his face.

Through their unique mind link, Inuyasha communicated, Hey there, little one. How are you today?

Adrian's mental voice bubbled with excitement, I'm amazing, godfather! I caught a squirrel and a rabbit last night. They tasted so good!

Inuyasha laughed internally, Look at you! Already a formidable hunter and only a year old.

Well, of course! I am an alpha. It's in my nature, Adrian replied with childlike confidence.

That's true, but remember to always be careful and not get overconfident, Inuyasha cautioned.

Understood, godfather, Adrian responded.

With their conversation over, Inuyasha picked Adrian up and placed him in his highchair. Both Scott and Inuyasha took their seats. Moments later, servants emerged with carts laden with breakfast. They arranged the dishes on the table and filled glasses with assorted drinks before bowing and exiting.

Koga cleared his throat, garnering everyone's attention. "I have an announcement. As many of you are aware, Hojo recently fell ill, and it remains uncertain when he will recover.

In light of this, Ethan has stepped up as the acting head matriarch for his family. After rigorous preparations, we'll officially recognize him in his new role in a ceremony in the coming months."

All eyes turned to Ethan, who, under the weight of their gazes, blushed deeply.

"Brother, quit it! You're embarrassing me!" Ethan exclaimed.

Koga chuckled, "Today marks your official commencement as the new matriarch, given Hojo's condition. As both your alpha and the leader of our pack, I reserve the right to tease. But jests aside, I believe you'll serve as an exceptional matriarch."

With Koga's announcement behind them, conversation resumed, and the group enjoyed their meal. An hour passed, filled with laughter and shared stories. Eventually, the pack, with Adrian in tow, headed to the den, Sesshomaru retired to his room, while Scott and Inuyasha decided to spend some quality time in the gardens.

Shippou graciously stayed behind to assist with cleanup.

Upon reaching the gardens, Scott and Inuyasha shed their clothes and shifted into their primal forms, seeking a connection with nature and an adventurous date in the woods. Hours flew by, culminating in the rumble of their stomachs.

Scott, raising his snout, caught the scent of a boar. A silent agreement formed between the two, and they commenced their hunt. After a coordinated ambush, they feasted upon their prize.

Full and satisfied, they made their way to a nearby pond to wash away the remnants of their hunt. Afterward, they shifted back to their humanoid forms, and with the sun warming their skin, they lay on the grass, basking and cuddling, eventually drifting into slumber.

The enticing scent of a campfire roused them a couple of hours later. They approached the source, discovering Shippou expertly roasting fish over an open flame.

Shippou looked up from the fire, noticing the two approaching figures. "How was your date and nap?" he asked.

"It was great," both Scott and Inuyasha replied in unison.

"But why are you out here alone?" Scott inquired, his brow furrowed in confusion.

Shippou's cheeks turned a faint pink. "I was waiting for the twins, but it seems they forgot. I guess I'll just share this fish with you guys. Though," he added a bit sheepishly, "could you put some clothes on first?"

He tossed their garments over to them. The pair quickly slipped into their clothes and settled on the grass beside Shippou, each taking a skewered roasted fish.

"This is delicious," Scott commented, taking a bite. "You've really mastered the mix of spices and herbs. You're turning into quite the chef, nephew."

Shippou's face deepened in its blush. "Thanks, I've been practicing."

"You know," Scott mused, "our current cook is about to retire. You keep this up, and I might just have to offer you his position."

The young fox's eyes widened with pride. "I would be honored to step into that role when the time comes."

"How about starting as a part-time trainee, for now, to get the hang of things?" Scott suggested.

"That sounds perfect. I can begin tonight and assist with dinner preparations," Shippou agreed enthusiastically.

"Great," Scott responded, "When you head back, let the cook know I've sent you. If there are any issues, he can come speak with me."

Shippou nodded. "I will, Uncle. Enjoy the rest of your day!"

"We will, and remember to listen to the cook and learn well," Scott advised.

With a grin, Shippou waved and made his way back to the castle. Upon his return, he spotted Hojo, sitting on a bench in the garden.

Approaching the elderly cook, Shippou remarked, "Hojo, it's good to see you up. How are you feeling?"

Hojo looked up, a gentle smile on his face. "Ah, Shippou. I feel better than I look. What brings you here?"

"The king has asked me to train under you, in preparation for your retirement," Shippou informed.

"Has he now?" Hojo mused, a hint of amusement in his voice.

"Yes. How can I assist you for now?"

Hojo pondered for a moment. "Well, you can start by helping me to my feet so we can go to the kitchen. Then I'll start teaching you how to prepare the food.

"Of course, I can't wait to get started!" Shippou eagerly replied.

Ten Minutes Earlier

After finishing their fish, Scott and Inuyasha extinguished the fire and made their way back to the castle. Not long after arriving on the castle grounds, they noticed Shippou engaged in conversation with Hojo, the cook.

Using their acute hearing, they discreetly eavesdropped on the discussion. Recognizing the royal pair, Shippou and Hojo offered a friendly wave, which Scott and Inuyasha returned before continuing to the castle.

Once inside, they glimpsed the twins sneaking out of the ballroom. They exchanged curious looks but decided not to pursue the matter. Choosing to unwind, they headed to their quarters to lounge and watch some television.

However, they lost track of time, dozing off. Five hours later, a knock at their door roused Inuyasha. As he approached the door, Scott emerged from the bathroom, a towel draped around his hair. Opening the door slightly, Inuyasha found Chris on the other side.

"Sire, dinner is ready," Chris informed him. "I'd recommend hurrying; most have already dined and departed for the evening."

"We overslept," Inuyasha admitted, his voice tinged with sleepiness. "We just finished showering. Give us a moment."

"Of course, sire. Enjoy your meal, and good night," Chris replied.

Inuyasha responded with gratitude, "Thanks, and good night to you as well."

By the time Scott and Inuyasha made it to the dining hall, they found only remnants of the meal. Their earlier feast meant they weren't particularly hungry, so they were content with the leftovers. After their modest meal, they retired to their chambers, disrobed, and snuggled into bed, falling asleep in each other's embrace.

Fast Forward: 6 Weeks Later

The stillness of the night was broken when Inuyasha suddenly awoke with an overwhelming urge to vomit. In his haste, he inadvertently knocked Scott off the bed as he dashed to the bathroom.

After a moment of disorientation, Scott headed to the bathroom and found Inuyasha heaving over the toilet. He crouched beside him, rubbing his back in an effort to provide some comfort.

"Just let it out," Scott whispered gently. "It's all part of the process. Remember to take your medicine once you're done."

Inuyasha weakly signaled his understanding with a thumbs-up, then resumed his unpleasant task. After what felt like hours but was only thirty minutes, Inuyasha felt he had nothing left to expel. He flushed, cleaned up, and freshened his breath before both retreated to their bed for some much-needed rest.

Inuyasha awoke seven hours later, lured by the enticing aroma of food. As he turned, he found Scott beside him, holding a tray laden with fruits, vegetables, meat, herbal tea, and crackers.

Offering a smile, Inuyasha leaned in and kissed Scott on the lips before gratefully accepting the crackers and tea. Setting the tray aside, Scott climbed back into bed next to him.

"How are you feeling, babe?" Scott inquired softly.

"Shitty, but better," Inuyasha confessed. "I'm growing weary of this bland diet. I long for all the tasty foods we used to enjoy."

"You will, in due time. Just seven more weeks. Patience, love," Scott assured him.

Once they finished their meal, the pair succumbed to their exhaustion and drifted off to sleep. After a rejuvenating three-hour nap, they arose, dressed, and decided to spend some hours reading in the library.

As they delved into their books, the passage of time went unnoticed until a knock interrupted their tranquility. Scott stood to answer, finding Ethan on the other side of the door.

"My King, lunch is served. You might want to hurry," Ethan informed.

"Thank you, Ethan. Give us a moment," Scott replied.

Once Ethan departed, the two replaced their books and made their way to the dining room. Upon arrival, the myriad of food scents overwhelmed Inuyasha, causing a wave of nausea and persistent gagging. Koga, observing his distress, voiced his concern.

"Is everything alright, pup? You appear unwell," he noted.

"Just a persistent upset stomach," Inuyasha replied weakly.

However, a moment later, Inuyasha's body seized, and he lost consciousness.

Awakening seventeen agonizing hours later, Inuyasha grappled with a throbbing headache. "What happened? Why am I bedridden?" he mumbled.

Scott, jolted awake by the commotion, rushed to Inuyasha's side, desperate to soothe him. "Oh, Inuyasha, you're awake. We've all been so worried."

"Uncle, I overheard the commotion while in the kitchen with the twins," Adrian chimed in.

Feeling the weight of all the eyes upon him, Inuyasha looked to Scott for guidance. Receiving a subtle nod, he took a deep breath. "Pack father, my recent ailments stem from my inability to eat; everything induces nausea. And the reason? I'm pregnant."