1.
The old room in which Grandfather slept was covered in smoke. A blow from her lips….Kagome's mother stared at her daughter with her hair parted and two braids formed down her chest. Her heart ached with pain at the realization of what happened. Her little brother crawled up to her and rested his head on her lap. She knew the harsh truth. It was cruel and unfair. Just because a death occurred in the Higurashi family, she had to suffer, but Sota could become whatever he wanted. But she, a mere girl, with no money or way to bring good fortune to the family name, was left with a despicable choice.
"It's the only choice, Kagome," her mother said, stroking her chin.
"Save your love and strokes," Kagome spat. "It's all a lie. Everything….all I have worked for….gone." Her eyes watered and her throat grew dry. Her sobs wracked her body inwardly.
"Then let it be….so shall it be….I will marry and be a concubine…." Kagome whispered amidst the smoke. Her tears fell gently down her soft cheeks.
"Please, Kagome, forgive me," her mother said.
"Please, spare me the pleasantries. My body will belong to a man for a mere bit of money….like a common prostitute. Go on, little brother, be a man so you too will one day own a precious woman," Kagome hissed. Her tears and voice became angry. Sota merely chewed on a dumpling, drool covered his little chin.
"Please, Kagome…."