Disclaimers!
To Youkai55: Aretha eh? I love that you have so much faith in the characters, brochacho! And I don't think anyone wants Rin to grow up. She'll stay young forever and scream it from the top of her lungs like Fall Out Boy's song says.
To Jackiezedkiler: But isn't it such a flip to your switch (turn on) when he goes ape shit? I mean… oh yes! Heavenly father, I wanna thank you. And I'm pretty nervous about the peace treaty too. What will it be, hmm? Especially after what happened in the town's hall?
*BONUS! BONUS! BONUS!*
Hello beautiful people! This chapter is the special surprise I had planned for you.
Last chap was the twentieth! I felt so happy to have you all follow me for so long! And your reviews and support was amazing. You really kept me up and going! So, I thought why not treat you with a little bonus chapter? This chapter is more of a flashback. It's a view into the past. You guys have a lot of questions. One of them was what was Akemi like when she was younger. Well now you'll get to see firsthand. Because this is a bonus and not and actual continuation of the story, I will pause the Q&A. We'll save it for the next chap. Hey, that just means more fun questions, right?
So, I hope you enjoy! Have fun!
The Hunted
Chapter Twenty-One
*A Blast from the Past*
"Mrs. Genesis… we need you to push!"
"Why can't I have more drugs, again?"
"Dear, it's because it's not good for you or the baby", Mr. Genesis reasoned. "Now come on, you're almost there."
"Oh my god!"
"She's coming out!"
"Oh, look at that head full of hair", Mr. Genesis laughed.
"Just pull her out, god damn it!"
"She's out!"
Mrs. Genesis fell back on the bed and released a relieved cry. She opened her eyes and looked to her husband who was looking after the newborn in the hands of the doctors.
"Why isn't she crying", Mr. Genesis asked. "Is she okay?"
"N-no, she's fine", the doctor said. He held out the baby to the nurses who took her. "Are violet eyes a trait in your family?"
"No, not at all."
"Leroy, what's going on with my baby", Mrs. Genesis called out.
"Your daughter is fine, ma'am. She's just not crying. We're trying everything."
"Well why does she need to cry", Leroy questioned.
"It helps to clear fluids and mucus out so that she may breathe properly", the nurse said. "I'll begin suctioning."
"What is that?"
"Clearing of the fluids and mucus", the doctor said.
Not long after a sound came from the child and everyone froze. Mrs. and Mr. Genesis both exchanged looks before smiling.
"Is… is she laughing?"
"You have quite a happy baby. I've never witnessed a child laughing at child birth. Here you go, your beautiful baby girl."
"Oh", Mrs. Genesis cried out. "Look at her!"
"Her eyes are very… rare", Leroy said. "They are beautiful."
"Do you feel that", she whispered. "Her aura… it's strong."
"Your mother said it would be, Melissa."
"So I guess the name Akemi is perfect?"
"Bright and beautiful as she is, yes, of course!"
"Akemi Alexandria Genesis", Melissa said proudly.
"Alexandria? Where did this come from?"
"Oh c'mon", Melissa laughed out. "It's perfect! Alexandria's Genesis, where the descendants all have dark hair, violet eyes, and fair skin with tremendous beauty…"
"Your sense of humor is ridiculous. Fine, Akemi Alexandria Genesis it is then."
"Akemi, what are you doing up this late?"
Wrapped in silk, dark blue flat sheets to the bedding, a young woman slowly turned her head and smiled. She then continued to look back at the scenery before her and leaned against the railing to the balcony. Her slightly disarray, black hair blew in the night's chilly breeze as she pulled the blanket tighter around her body. Her strikingly purple eyes scanned over the waters that crashed against the shore below before closing with an intake of the air.
"What do you mean?"
"Surely, you should be exhausted."
"Hm… you're giving yourself a lot of credit, there, buddy", she sighed out as large arms wrapped around her waist. She leaned back against the firm chest that press against her back. She smiled as lips came down to kiss her forehead. "Do you really expect for me to be able to sleep after that, Sesshomaru?"
"Perhaps, I should double my efforts in rocking you into slumber."
She gasped out at the feeling of his lips kissing a red mark on her shoulder. With a moan, she turned in his hold before clutching on around his neck. "Ooh, bad Sesshy!"
Startled, a young seven year old boy jumped out of his sleep. Sweat dripped from his brow. He moved to wipe it clean but felt the clinging of his sleeping wear to his body of more discomfort. Just how much was he sweating?
Throwing his blankets away, he quickly stood to his feet. Running to the door, he stumbled, falling against it. His shoulder collided with the doorknob. After releasing a small grunt, he quickly forgot of the pain, something more urgent in mind consuming what he called priorities.
He dashed out of his room and came into contact with guards.
"Young lord, what are you doing out of bed." Looking at his stricken state, the guards grew worried, all ready to take on a fight. "What is it? Is everything alright?"
"Where is my father? I need to speak with him", he said, low. For a child, his voice already began to prepare for pitch change. It confused many but it made sense. The boy was growing incredibly fast in more than physicality.
"H-he's in his study. He's going over –
"I don't care. I need to speak with him, for it is urgent."
"Yes, must we escort you?"
"It's uncalled for." The child ran, clothes still clinging from the sweat from the dream that startled him awake. It still bothered him. Wasn't he a bit young? He only just turned seven. To have dreams like this, what was going on?
"Father", he yelled, growing closer to his destination. He reached the door, but before he could grab for it, it was thrown open.
"Sesshomaru, what is the problem? Why are you up? Why are you sweating?"
Sesshomaru grabbed his father's hand and pulled him into the office before closing the door. He looked around to make sure they were alone before turning to him.
"Sesshomaru, my son, what has gotten you so afraid?"
"Don't objectify me, father. I am not afraid of anything."
"Yes, because seeing you covered in sweat, racing down the halls screaming for me in the middle of the night wearing an expression that signifies that you've seen a ghost would not give me the idea that you are scared. Of course, my fault entirely, how dare I?"
"Father, this isn't a joke! This is very serious."
"Perhaps if you told me, I'd have a better understanding. Make sure to watch your tongue when speaking to me, boy. I am your father! I may have a lot of work to do but nothing will stop me from reminding you of your place! Now, what is bothering you, son?"
Sesshomaru scoffed as he turned his head away. He preferred to bow down to no one but he'd be damned if he didn't respect his alpha. He may not care for his father's decisions and choices but… with what he was learning about his mother and the things that were happening, his father is the only one he could trust.
"What is the average age for one to discover their mate?"
"Mate? Sesshomaru, you're here at one o'clock in the morning for a question about mating? What is the meaning of this?"
"I just need to know, father!"
The man before him sighed out and gave his son a weary look. He walked over to the lavish sofa and sat down. Sesshomaru followed and sat beside him.
"What's got you thinking of women during the night, Sesshomaru? I understand you're taking onto manhood rather quickly but… you're only seven."
Sesshomaru frowned as he looked to his father. "What are you thinking?"
"Must we have the talk already?"
"What are you saying? Sex, father?" Inutaisho raised his brows at his son. Sesshomaru clenched his jaw, appalled by the thoughts of his father. "I wasn't masturbating if that's what you believe!"
"I never said you were, son."
"I had a dream of a girl!"
"What… kind of dream?"
Sesshomaru groaned out as he fell slack in his seat. Inutaisho stared shocked and wide eye at the boy and his behavior. Sesshomaru was always structured. It must be something truly troubling to have him acting such a way. He's beginning to act like his five year old brother, Inuyasha. That boy didn't want to do anything right.
"Sesshomaru, what is it? What kind of dream did you have?"
"The girl… actually, she was a woman in the end."
"In the end?"
"Yes, she was nude and –
"Sesshomaru, you're having wet dreams?"
"Would you listen? No, not exactly!"
"Start from the beginning. What happened in your… dream?"
"There was a woman, different from the one I was describing. I think it was her mother. There was also a man, her father perhaps. There were in the midst of child birth. It was troubling at first. The child wouldn't cry. They were all worried. But then she began to laugh. She turned out to be fine…"
"What else can you tell me?"
"They gave her a name, Akemi Alexandria Genesis."
"Akemi Alexandria Genesis?"
"Yes, the child had dark hair and violet eyes. Her mother thought it was amusing to give her such a name based on legions in history."
"I see", Inutaisho said with a nod. "What species?"
"She was human", Sesshomaru said with a frown. "Father, I believe she was miko. They said her aura was large. I could feel it, almost, myself."
"And you said in the end she was nude?"
"Yes", Sesshomaru said with a nod before turning to his father. "We were a bit older?"
"We? You both were there?"
"We were on the balcony. She was wrapped in a bed sheet staring at the ocean. I was wondering why she was up. Apparently she was supposed to be exhausted after a particular act we performed. She was a sarcastic woman. I don't think I like it much. But I seemed to be fine with it in the dream. I was entertained by her, amused."
"Is that all?"
Sesshomaru gave a nod before looking to an artifact in his father's office. "What could it mean? Did I have the dream that determines my mate, father? Have I found her?"
"At such an age like this, I'd have my doubts. But with your details… I can't see it as anything else. And you have been growing extremely fast. Puberty is coming quickly for you."
"Hn."
"You said her name was Akemi Genesis?"
"Yes, father."
"I will have it looked into tomorrow. Until then, Sesshomaru get sleep. You have a big day ahead of you, now."
"Daddy… I don't get it. Why did we have to move? I didn't want to leave!"
"Well, princess, daddy got a new job! But… in order for me to work this new job, I had to move in order to get there. Daddy can't take a plane every day to work."
"But why couldn't you just keep the job you had! We were happy!"
"Because this one will do better things for us", Akemi's mother said, stepping in.
"For example, we'll be able to go hiking more!"
"More hiking", Akemi gasped out.
"Yes! Daddy will be working in the forest. It'll pay more and we have a nice house right next to it. Your bedroom will be bigger and prettier."
"Will we have a pet bear? Ooh, no can we have a pet wolf?"
"Hell, I don't know! But that shit does sound cool… I'll think about it", her dad mumble.
"Oh yeah you will", her mother growled. "You keep talking like that in front of our daughter the only thing you'll be thinking is why is my wife beating me so roughly!"
"Oh, baby, you know I like it rough", Akemi's father whispered as he grabbed his wife and kissed her cheek.
Akemi smiled at that before turning away to look for her bag. She knew this is where you'd get it. She just couldn't remember what the machine was called. She shrugged it off, and walked forward. Standing on her toes and peeking over, she paid great attention to the task at hand. Her bag was a purple suitcase with her name written in white. Inside was a special treasure.
"Squiggles, where are you", she called out.
In her suitcase was her stuffed octopus. Her parents told her that she'd have to put him away because octopuses can't ride on planes so they'd have to hide him. But the truth was, they didn't want her to lose it. Akemi could have lost it in the airport or left it on the plane. If that would have happened all hell would have let loose.
Spotting the purple bag, Akemi gasped in excitement. She chased down the bag and jumped to grab it. Unfortunately, the bag was too far away and her short legs weren't giving her what she needed to get it. Thinking up and an idea, she climbed the machine and reached out as the bag moved slowly in front of her. Stretching herself, the bag grazed her fingers. As it past her, her body leaned forward.
Before she could fall forward onto to metallic belt, a great force pulled her back. She squealed out as she fell back into someone's arms.
"What do you think you are doing?"
She turned around and saw a boy. He was wearing jeans and a hoodie. The hoodie was pulled up and cloaking his face and features. All she could see were his eyes, that glowed amongst the darkest the hood provided.
"I-I was getting my bag."
"So, your bag is more important to you than good health and safety?"
"W-well…."
The boy sighed out and held up the purple bag. "Here, I believe this is yours."
Akemi gasped and reached forward for her bag. She pulled it from his grasp and dropped it to the floor. Quickly, she zipped it open and pulled out the friendly octopus.
"Squiggles", she cried out. "I'm so happy to see you!"
"That is what had you worried?"
"Yes, Squiggles is my best friend. He's my only friend… He's always there for me when no one else is."
"Hn", the boy uttered as he watched the girl zip up her suitcase and stand it up. Seeing that white letters across the front, he arched a brow. "What is your name?"
"I'm not supposed to tell that to strangers."
"I just saved your life."
"I was only going to fall."
"Is it Akemi?"
At that, the young girl's eyes sprung wide. She then looked to her bag and groaned. "And so what if it is…?"
"It's a pretty name."
"Thank you… since you have my name, can I have yours. You did save my life."
"You only fell, Akemi. It wasn't that serious."
The young girl huffed out and rolled her eyes. "Boys are so stupid…"
"For one so young you have such a mature mind."
"I'm not that young!"
"Hn."
"Akemi! Akemi, where are you?"
At that the young girl spun around and watched as her parents ran to her. "Mom…"
"Akemi, what have we told you about walking away? You can't do that in a place like this. It isn't safe."
"I just wanted to get Squiggles", she said raising her stuffed octopus. "And I also –
She turned to point at the boy she met but he was gone. She frowned at that and began to look around.
"I don't get it… He was just –
"Let's get going, okay?"
From a far, the young man watched as the girl and her family exited the airport. Her father flagged down a taxi, and the girl continued to search for the mysterious young boy, ignoring the nagging speech from her mother on what to and what not to do.
"Is that her?"
"It is", the young boy said.
"Well good. You've gotten the chance to make sure she relocated safely. Now we must go. Normally, Sesshomaru, it is not allowed for one to make contact before the hunt but… in your case… I permitted it."
Sesshomaru continued to watch the girl. She stared to the ground sadly as she hugged her animal to her chest. Suddenly her head shot up and she turned towards him. Their eyes met and she smiled at him, providing a wave.
He released a quiet chuckle and smiled back before she was hurried into the car.
"Thank you, father."
The older man standing beside Sesshomaru froze in shock. He looked down to his son and then off to the car. Returning to his son, he noticed the smile on his face and the look in his eyes. He's seen those eyes before when they first seen a picture of Akemi. But never has he ever witness Sesshomaru smile, not even as a small child.
"It's my pleasure, Sesshomaru. Let us leave."
Akemi sighed out as she played with the tentacles of her octopus. "Daddy?"
"Yes, baby girl?"
"I think I'm in love with the boy at the airport."
"Who the hell is this dick head?"
"Okay, Akemi, now I know this will be your first time going so I'll explain now. At a library, you have to be quiet."
"Why mommy", asked the girl as she bounced Squiggles on her lap.
"Well, people at the library need a quiet environment to do their work. Some people are reading, some are working, and others have homework and things like that. They need others to be quiet so that they may concentrate."
"Okay."
The two pulled up at the library. Melissa got out of the car and helped Akemi out. Taking her hand she smiled down at her daughter and nudged her. "If you want, you can find a book that you'd like me to read to you."
"Okay", Akemi said as she watched the way her feet followed the way her mother's walked. She'd always match her steps with her mother's. If she could walk like her mother, then she could be like her mother.
As her mother opened the door, Akemi took the time to look at the building. Though it looked small on the outside, it was much bigger and grander on the inside. The bookcases looked as if they'd reach up to the ceiling which looked as if they'd grow to the heavens. Everything was set in a soft, warm glow. There was no area that was too bright. It looked like a library of a castle to Akemi. The tables were a nice red wood which matched perfectly to the shelves.
What threw everything of was the section where children were playing quietly. Akemi looked over to it and noticed how the other kids would wave at her to get her to come over. Seeing this, she hid behind her mother. It wasn't that she didn't like the kids; she just didn't want to play with them. In the beautiful, grand library, the childish area just threw everything off. Akemi thought of it as the last thing she wanted to participate in.
"And who is this little one?"
"Akemi, this is Mrs. Rose. She runs the library. Would you like to say hi?"
"Hi", Akemi mumbled.
"Hello Akemi! Would you like to go over and play with the others as I help your mother?" Akemi looked over to the kids and frowned before shaking her head. "Okay, well how about look for a book? If you find a book you really like you can take it home."
"Really?"
"Yes ma'am."
"Go ahead, Akemi. But remember what I told you."
"Okay mommy."
Once she was given the okay, Akemi walked off. Slowly she took in the beauty of the great library. The amazement she was feeling was overwhelming. There was a burning in her chest and a boil in her belly. If she thought she knew what love was before… she was wrong. This had to be love. She never felt anything more amazing in her five years of living!
Her fingers trailed along the shelves she could reach and the spines she could touch. Her mouth hung open as she looked up to the top. Books expanded off well. She breathed in and was met with the musky smell of aged paper.
Reaching the end of a row, Akemi turned her head and raised her brows. She clutched Squiggles closer to her as she pulled out a certain book. Looking at the cover, she gasped at the beauty of it. Though it wasn't much, it was still something to her. There was a girl holding a necklace with a beautiful red jewel. The jewel entranced Akemi. She wanted to read the book.
Only if her reading skills were up to par… Nothing wrong in trying, right?
Satisfied with her choice, she left the isle in an excited skip. She made her way to an area with two arm chairs and a table with a lamp. It looked cozy enough. It was certainly darker than any other area in the library, but it was secluded. That's all she wanted.
She sat in the chair and sighed out as she stationed Squiggles comfortably beside her. Immediately she got to work on her book. Within an hour, she didn't make it too far along. She was still within the first chapter. A lot of words she had problems with. The easier words were words like the, a, and, she, or any other words similar. Bigger and trickier words that had sounds different from what they looked like confused her. Words like certain appeared to be curtain. Words like enough looked like eno-ugh. What is an eno-ugh?
"Akemi, why are you over here in the dark?"
"It's comfortable, mommy. No one will bother me over here."
"Well did you find a book?"
"Yes", Akemi said, holding the book out. Her mother took the book and looked down with a confused expression. Once she read the summary and recalled the genre, she gave her daughter a shocked look. "The jewel is very pretty, momma."
"Sweetheart, this is a big kid book."
"You and daddy said I act like a big kid!"
"Yes we did but –
"I wanna read this one! I don't want to read books about Llama, Llama Red Pajama or mice and cookies! Everyone knows Sam will get you to eat green eggs and ham! I don't want any more Dr. Seuss books! They are boring! I wanna read big girl books, damn it!"
"Akemi, we don't use potty words!" Akemi's frown turned into an apologetic look as she shrunk back. "I could kill your father, right now. It's his fault you are so free with your words."
Melissa stared down at her daughter with a smirk and shook her head. She then looked to the child book in her head and sighed. It was a Dr. Seuss book. "Yeah, they're classics but… I get your point." She looked at the book once more and smiled. "So you prefer to read stories about werewolves over talking dogs?"
"Werewolves?"
"Yeah, those are people who have magical powers. They can change into a wolf!"
"Anytime they want!"
"Yup!"
"I wanna be a werewolf!"
"And you wanna read about witches and warlocks!"
"Yes, I do! Yes!"
Melissa laughed out and sat in the seat beside Akemi. "I guess that's my fault. I was always into fiction novels." She looked down at the book and smiled. "Well, if a big book is what you want, a big book you will get. Let's go!"
Akemi, happy with her mother's decision jumped off the seat and giggled as she and Melissa made it to the front desk to check out.
"Did you find a book?"
"Yes, mommy has it!"
"Oh", Mrs. Rose said. She looked to the books Melissa gave her and frowned. Mel smirked at the librarian and shrugged. "Are you sure you want this one?"
"Does it have werewolves, warlocks and witches?"
"Oh my", Mel laughed out.
"Uh… yes it does!"
"Then it's the one I want! Mommy said she'll read it to me before bed."
"One chapter every night", Melissa sighed out.
"Are you sure? This is young adult. Some scenes may be a bit much for her."
"What are they gonna do, make out? Better that than… well you know! Besides, she sees it on TV. And she'll have to learn sooner or later. I'd prefer it'd be from a book. At least that way we're feeding her mind."
"I guess you're right", Mrs. Rose said as it rang clear to her. "She's very mature for her age. She didn't want to play with the kids?"
"Akemi isn't taken by toys and bright colors. I mean, yeah, she plays like everyone else but… she was a bit more interested with the books than the toys. The kiddies' section probably threw her off. It's out of the ordinary in a library like this. And you didn't even hear her speech in bribing me into getting this book."
"You are quite an interesting little girl, Akemi."
Hearing the promising compliment, Akemi hugged Squiggles close and gave the brightest smile ever. She released a giggled and tilted her head.
"Daddy says I'm entertaining too!"
"What do you mean those girls that you sent off last night are not coming back", roared out Leroy.
Melissa sat back in her seat as she watched the dispute between her husband and a friend/neighbor play out. The Genesis family, like usual, took a little family vacation. The only thing is, they took it a bit early this year. When they got back, everything was closed and four girls were being held up in honor and sent away in a limo. Melissa and Leroy thought that the girls were being sent away on a trip for being good role models or something but apparently that wasn't it. Those girls were leaving and they were never coming back home. As for where they were going and what they were to face, not even the mayor knew.
"I brought my family, with my baby girl included, to this god damn forsaken town hoping for a better future. After the bullshit I had to face in the city life, after living in a dangerous environment, I thought I could provide a better life for my daughter! Perhaps some small loving town with open forest and nature would be good for her! No, you spewing shit about missing teenage girls and… and… yokai? What the hell are they?"
"Leroy", Melissa called out. Akemi looked at her parents from the place on her dad's Lazyboy. Squiggles sat on her lap and a book was held in her hands. Her attention, though, was on her distraught and cursing father. "Akemi is listening… calm down. We don't want to scare her."
Leroy looked to his daughter. Akemi's face twisted at the sight of her father. She doesn't see him this mad often, but when she does she knows that things are bad. Real bad. The last time she's seen him like this, it was two years ago. It was right before they left Michigan.
At that time everyone was sad. Her mother was in a deep depression, she'd cry all the time. There was nothing Akemi could do to make her smile. Her father, he was cursing more than usual. He was on the phone a lot too, yelling at whoever was on the other end. Akemi, she was sad too… She was said that both of her parents were hurting. But she was even sadder about why.
A while back before Akemi and her family began to move to the town they are in now… her mother was pregnant. Akemi learned she was going to have a new baby brother. Her parents were going to name him Kyo. They had a thing for Japanese names. Her mother was fascinated with the culture. Her father was a huge anime and manga geek. It's how they met. It's how her parents fell in love.
One day, Melissa had a craving for a specific ice cream, beets and spicy pickles. She wanted to dip her pickles in the ice cream. She wanted the beets just for snacking. Though she told Leroy she was fine, he was determined to make sure she was happy and satisfied. Usually he is the one with the bad mouth but when Melissa is pregnant, they rival. A happy pregnant Melissa is a great Melissa. When her father left, both Akemi and her mother sat in the bedroom watching a movie. Akemi was half asleep until her mother got up to go to the kitchen. She was using her mother as pillow; her little brother's heart beat was nice to Akemi. She was excited to be a big sister. She was probably more excited than her parents.
Akemi sat up in her parents' bed and watched as her mother waddled to the stairs. When her mother paused, Akemi moved to the end with Squiggles in her arms. Suddenly Melissa's route changed from the stairs to Akemi's room. As soon as the door opened, Melissa turned around and began to quickly move to the master. Before she could make it too far, she was shoved down the stairs. Akemi jumped up as she saw the man stare as her mother tumbled down. She ran to her dad's closet and placed Squiggles down, so he'd be safe, before grabbing her dad's prized baseball bat from high school. She then ran to the man who was now down the stairs and swung really hard. The bat collided with his head and he fell over.
She dropped the bat and crawled to her mother. Not only was the intruder unconscious but so was Melissa. To make matters worse, her mommy was bleeding. So she did the only thing she knew was right.
"D-daddy! Mommy's hurt and there's a strange man here! Th-the police? No… Okay. Okay daddy." With both her and her father rushing and calling the police, flashing lights were there in a matter of seconds. The door was kicked down by her father. The first thing he did was pick up Akemi and run to his wife.
Later that night they learned they lost the baby at seven months in pregnancy. Her mother blamed herself and her cravings. Her father blamed himself for taking an extra trip for cigarettes. The only thing that came from the situation that was good was her father stopped smoking.
Akemi hated that time. She hated remembering it. Seeing her father right now took her back. It scared her. Was something else like that happening? Was she going to lose more family? She didn't want to lose anyone, family was the most important thing to her.
"Daddy…?"
"Sweetheart, I'm fine. Everything is fine", he said before walking over to her. "How about you go outside and sit on the swing on the porch."
"Can I take a walk?"
"Don't go too far", Melissa said. "Stay out of the woods. Don't go in alone."
Akemi hoped out of the recliner and left through the front door. She ran down the steps with her octopus and book. She looked back at the house, eyes full and red, and ran towards the forest. There was a nature trail. Yeah, her mom told her not to but it was the only thing she can do that will help her forget the look on her dad's face. A book, Squiggles and the great outdoors always helps when Akemi was scared and down. Obedience was thrown to the wind.
Akemi cracked open her book and walked along the marked trail. Her father made the trail for teens that'd travel inside for their… "special time". Often because they were so distracted, they'd lose track of where they were and get lost leaving her father to search for them, spending extra hours on duty. So, instead he made a nature trail and made signs telling them to not stray from it. It helped out for everyone. It also made it easier for Akemi to read and walk at the same time.
"Jesus, Derek, just kiss her already!" Akemi groaned and twirled on the balls of her feet. Already she forgot about why she was in the forest. But then again, she's been walking for awhile. "He's helpless when it comes to love, Squiggles."
"And you, a seven year old, are better?"
Gasping in air, Akemi closed her book and held it and her stuffed animal close. Turning to the source, she came to the sight of a young man. He was leaning against a tree. His hair was shining and… an odd color. It looked white but it didn't make him look like an old man. His eyes were gold and familiar. As for what he was wearing, it was a sweater vest and a nice button up, all untucked from his black slacks with shining casual shoes. That was not the proper attire for walking in the woods. And was he wearing makeup? Maybe he was trying out a costume. Halloween was coming soon. That'd explain his weird hair and eyes.
"What are you doing out here all alone?"
"Easy for you to talk, you don't look much older than me!"
"I am much older than you."
"How do you know? You don't know me. You don't know my age!"
"So you're telling me you don't remember me, Akemi? I did save your life, after all."
"Saved my life?" She frowned and looked him up and down.
"I was at the airport and you were in search of you bag for that thing in your hand, correct?"
Her eye brows went up in realization and she laughed. "I only fell, it wasn't that serious!"
"That may be true but I saved you from a bad bruising."
"Yeah, sure", she said. She then walked away from the trail and sat against a tree. She opened her book and sighed out before reading.
"You are really going to sit here? It is dangerous for someone your age."
"And how old am I, since you seem to know everything?"
"You appear to be six."
"I'm seven!"
"Hn!"
She scoffed and rolled her eyes. "What are you, eight? You act very immature like you have the personality of a five year old!"
"You have a mouth."
"Your point", she said with an arched brow. "You should see yourself lucky. Usually I don't talk to people like am to you."
"That makes me special?"
"Very special."
"I don't consider myself lucky. Perhaps you shouldn't talk."
"Then leave. From what I know, you aren't from my town! There isn't any other close enough. My dad takes good care of this forest so technically it's his. You're trespassing."
"A sharp tongue but an even sharper mind."
"Are you hitting on me? Daddy warned me about boys like you... I'm not here to participate in your "special time". You can keep that to yourself!"
"Special time?"
"That's what I said. And what's with the costume and makeup."
"I'm not wearing a costume nor makeup."
"So you really look that way with elf ears?"
"I am a yokai."
"What is that?"
"Do you know what a demon is?"
"Yeah", she said with a shrug. The boy looked at her and she raised her brows. "Oh, okay."
"You are comfortable with sitting in a forest with a demon."
"I'm not racist", she snapped. "I was raised to look passed that. People are people no matter what they are, what their beliefs are, and what they love. Everyone should be treated equally."
"Your parents are wise."
"I know that. They are my parents." Akemi shrugged and sighed out. "My dad also said that with how fucked up the human race is we all might go to hell anyway." She then looked to the yokai teen and smiled. "So, I might as well get use to talking to demons. But what I don't know is your name."
"You want to know my name?"
"You don't have to tell me. I won't care either way. It'll just be nice to know the demon's name who "saved" me and decided to scold me about walking alone in the forest. If you asked me, I'd say you're worried."
"You think I'm worried?"
"It'd make sense."
"That is because I am."
"Why?"
"Do you know about mates?"
"What?"
"Soul mates?"
"Yeah, my parents are soul mates. It means that they are meant to be, right?"
"Exactly."
"What about it?"
"What if I told you that you were my soul mate, Akemi?"
Calling out to the air, Akemi's eyes shot open and she gasped. Staring at the wall across from her, Akemi gripped tight to the bedding and pillows beneath her. Shivering, Akemi turned out her back and laid there for a moment. Her chest rose in the thrill of the weird dream. Her eyes closed to try to imagine the memory. Slowly she sat up in her bed and wrapped her arms around her knees. She hid her mouth behind her knees and stared out her window.
That dream, it was reoccurring. It's been for years now, ever since she's learned about this weird town. She didn't like it nor did she appreciate this town's history. Sadly, there wasn't much she could do. Her parents tried to relocate but it wasn't easy to do. They couldn't find a home to move to nor could they find a stable job. They had no choice but to stay in the town. It scared Akemi but she knew they had time. She was still young and girls are usually chosen at 16 and older.
"Akemi – oh, you're awake!"
Jumping, the young girl turned and noticed her mother peeking in. "M-mom…"
"I was coming to wake you. Me and your dad are getting ready to go. You know the airport is a while away and our flight is a bit early so…"
"You came to say goodbye?"
"And to make sure you are fine", her dad said, popping up from nowhere. "You're going be okay without us, kiddo?"
"Yeah, I'll be good. I mean I'll be going camping with Takara's folks."
"I love them", Melissa said.
"Yeah, they seem to be the only family here with some damn sense in their heads", Leroy mumbled.
Melissa only rolled her eyes, tired of scolding her husband's language. There was just no helping it now.
"Just remember to meet them on time."
"Only if you remember to call me on time. I'll be waiting here for you guys. Once I get your call I'll get moving."
"Good." Her mother traveled to her bed and hugged Akemi. They both sighed and Mel kissed her daughter's head. "I hate leaving you like this."
"Well it's your first getaway without me", Akemi laughed out. "But everything will be cool."
"Yeah, don't get so worked", Leroy said. He walked over and joined in on the love, ruffling Akemi's hair. "You be good. Stay away from those jackass, boys!"
"Oh my…" Akemi pushed away her father and groaned. "Leave now so you can call me on time. You guys, have fun. I love you and I'll miss you. You deserve this. Happy Anniversary. I hope you enjoy your present."
"It is lovely, Akemi. Thank you!"
"You did great this year, princess."
"Well…" Akemi mumbled as she shrugged. "I did… yeah."
Akemi climbed out of bed and followed her parents to the front door. From there she watched as they got into the car and prepared to leave. She smiled as they waved goodbye and pulled out of the driveway. She watched as they disappeared down the road and out of sight. Once they were truly gone, she closed the door and looked to the empty house.
"Now it's time to party."
She ran upstairs and went to the bathroom. Showering and washing up, she looked into the mirror as she stood with the towel wrapped around her body. The toothbrush moved avidly on her teeth with the duty of cleaning away plaque and bacteria. Rinsing her mouth, she grabbed her rag and prepped to clean her face. She then ran to her room and began to get dress when the house phone rang.
"Hey", she answered.
"It's Takara, are you ready for tonight?"
"I'm so ready, I just have to go out and pick up and few things."
"Cool, I'll be waiting."
"Me too", Akemi laughed out. "I'll call you then."
Akemi hung up the phone an slipped into her shoes. She then grabbed her backpack and ran to the garage. Hopping in her bike, she waited as the door opened before racing out and to her destination. Seeing as the town was small and Akemi was great at riding her bike, it didn't take much effort to get to where she was going. Her tires skid to a stop and she jumped off before dropping her bike against the building. She ran in the door and went to the front. She made sure to call ahead to have her things waiting for her so she could grab and go.
"Akemi, it's always a pleasure!"
"Hi, Mrs. Rose", Akemi said, smiling grand as she stopped at the front desk. "How are you?"
"I am great, thank you. I have you dose of literature here. You're taking it camping with you, again?"
"Yes ma'am, so expect dirt and pressed flowers."
"I love the pressed flowers, I keep them every time, but you can keep the dirt."
"Any recommendations today?"
"Yes, I have the House of Night series. It's about vampires. I have a feeling you might like it. It has a different twist on it though. Not your everyday burn in the sunlight, black cape wearing vampire."
"Is it like Twilight?"
"Not even close! I'm telling you, you'll like this one. It even includes Native Americans. I know you like them."
"I love Native Americans. The culture is so cool!" Akemi handed over her library card and took the books in exchange. Once she got her card back, she waved goodbye and took her leave.
She picked up her bike and dropped the bag of books in the basket before racing back home. She had a few more things to pack in her camping bag before she called Takara to leave. She also had to wait for her parents call too.
When Akemi made it home, she closed the garage door and cracked open her book to began reading. She went up to her room and began adding more things to her bag to take with her. When she was done, she carried them all down to the front door, with book still in hand, and fell on the couch.
"Oh man, I love books", she groaned in pure satisfaction. And to think, usually teens throw parties when parents leave. All you have to do is grab a book and camp! That's where the real party is at, in the books, people!
Akemi already finished ten chapters when she decided to look at her watch to catch the time. Her parents should have called by now. She sighed and closed her book before getting up to get something to drink. As she went to the fridge and cracked it open, a knock came to her door. She quickly grabbed a juice box before slamming the fridge close and running to the door. Another knock ha her calling out that she was coming. What she saw had her shocked.
"Hi… can I help you?"
"Yes, are you Akemi Genesis?"
"I am", Akemi said with a frown. She looked to the towns sheriff who had a frown on his face and then to the police officer of the city over. "Um… I'm not exactly sure on what this visit has to do with but I'm try my best to help out. Is everything okay?"
"Ms. Genesis, there has been an accident –
"Oh God, is everything okay? What happened?"
"Traffic was pretty heavy. During the changing from yellow to red, a car sped through and another car was totaled. The occupants were said to be close to you."
Akemi's grip on her juice box tightened along with her throat. She breathed out and cleared her closing throat as car doors shut. She looked over to see that it was Takara and her parents.
"An-and they were?"
"Leroy and Melissa Genesis", the sheriff said quietly. "I'm sorry, Akemi, but your parents were in an accident."
"So you guys are here to take me to then right? That's why my best friend is here? That's why you called them? How bad are the injuries? Or… do you not know yet?"
"Your mother… she suffered from a –
"What? A broken leg? What hit them?"
"A pick-up truck", said the officer of the other city. "It ran through the red and hit your parents' car. The impact was pretty severe… it killed you mother. Whereas your father –
"It did not kill my mother!"
"Akemi…"
"No Kara", Akemi yelled. "My mother is the strongest woman I know! It did not kill her! She could have died during child birth, but she didn't! It's because she's strong! If she can survived that she can survive anything! And my dad, I know he's okay!"
"He past during the transport to the –
"Got to fucking hell you low down piece of shit", Akemi hissed. She starred directly at the cop, eye to eye, unblinking, as she disrespected his name. "My father isn't dead either!"
"That isn't necessary, Ms. Genesis."
"Not necessary", Akemi choked out appalled.
"You're telling her that her parents are gone", said the sheriff. "They were all she had –
"Have, Sheriff Brady, they are all I have!"
"You can't expect her to remain respectful", the sheriff finished.
"Why the fuck are you saying this like they are dead, they are not dead! My parents are not dead! Check again! There has to be some sort of mistake! Maybe…. Maybe the paramedics didn't do something right."
"Our paramedics are highly trained –
"And so the hell are Olympians but not all of them get the damn gold, you asshole! Check again!"
"Akemi", Takara whispered, grabbing the younger girl's shoulders. "I'm sorry but… it's-it's true. Your parents, they…"
"They can't be, Kara. They just can't!" Akemi's eyes watered up as she dropped the juice box. "I…I just wanted them to be happy! I wanted them to have a nice time. They were supposed to be at a beach or something, drinking mimosas! They can't be dead! If they are that means… that means…"
"It is not your fault", Kara broke down. "Don't you dare, Akemi!"
"I planned it! It was my present to them, Takara! I killed my parents!" Akemi fell to the ground, Takara right beside her, clutching on as if the girl was going to disappear from depression. "I killed… my parents…"
"Sesshomaru."
"Mother."
"So, I here you have found your mate. Why haven't I met her? Quickly, tell me what she's like."
"Mother, my mate is none of your concern", said a young man as he flipped through a book.
"Oh, but she is. You are my son after all. I'd like to know more about the woman you'll marry. She'll be my daughter-in-law, the mother of my grandchildren, and the next queen of these lands. It's only best that I learn about her and see that she is well equipped for -
"And you are one to judge whether she is or not? You are not queen, and when you were you never performed the act properly. You are and were power driven. The last thing I'd ever want is for you to meet the woman I am to marry. She doesn't need to have your filthy hands contorting her mind, especially not now."
"Now? Is there a problem?"
"It is none of your business", Sesshomaru said as he stood to his feet and shut his book. He moved to leave the room but a hand caught his shoulder. "What?"
"Please, Sesshomaru. I know I have done wrong but I am your mother."
"You aren't worthy of the title. The woman who hold that name is true queen. Her name is Izoyai. Unlike you, she has heart."
"I gave birth to you!"
"And that's all you have ever done that is right. For that is the only thing I'll ever thank you for. Now crawl back to whatever rock you crawled from. For years after you weaseled your plans into my head, you left without a word. I haven't seen or heard much of you since. Now that word is out that I've about my mate since the age of seven, you are here as my mother? What is it that you want?"
"To know who this girl is? It all makes sense now! When you were a child you were so attached to me. We had such a great bond! Suddenly, you became of age to train for the thrown. Then you began to grow, puberty came and you turned to your father. Now I know it's because you learned of your mate and you needed his guidance."
"I turned to my father because after years of being lied to, I realized he was the only one telling me the truth."
Kimi scuffed and rolled her eyes. Her hand flailed as if the very thought was crazy. "Yeah well, I was only trying to protect you."
"You were trying to use me. It failed, now leave."
Sesshomaru's mother screeched out as she stumped her foot. "I can't believe you! After all the good I've done for you, the fighting I did. The hours of labor i struggled through to bring you into this world as a healthy baby boy, you treat me as if I am lower than the human scum of this step-mother of yours! You give her my place!"
"She didn't try to kill me after I turned from her will. Not even when I almost killed her under your order. What do you think I would have done?"
"Sesshomaru, I've told you time and time again, that was a mistake!"
"You tried to cover it up and blame it on my father. How hiring a highly trained assassin be a mistake? Perhaps you two were passing by, you stumbled, and my name and payment just fell into his lap."
"So, you understand?"
"Leave my presence or I'll be forced to slit your throat."
"You can't do that, Sesshomaru. We all know that and why?"
"You're suspiciously questioning me about my mate. I feel that her life is threatened. I can kill you for that. It is law. For my father, it was impossible. For me, it is not."
"I don't want to hurt the girl, I just want to learn about her. I know I can't hurt her. You know this too. I may have done many wrongs but you and I both know that something has you stressed. Have I ever enjoyed the look of stress on you?"
Sesshomaru sighed as he turned away. His patience was wearing thin with this woman. Truly, she was never found of him looking distraught. Yes, she tried to kill him but... oddly enough she never cared for his discomfort. It pained her more than the thought of his death. What could he say, she was insane.
"She is suffering with the death of both of her parents."
"Oh dear, how did they pass? Surely it had to of been something extreme! If she's to be your mate her parents must be strong yokai. You beast wouldn't pair itself with just anyone."
"It was from a car accident."
"A... car accident", she questioned confused. "But how?"
"Her parents aren't yokai."
Kimi laughed out and held her temples. "I'm sorry, my son. A headache is coming along and the pounding is drowning out your words. Pardon me. Now... did you say -
"Her parents are not yokai. And neither is she. My mate is human." Sesshomaru turned a smirk on to his mother, her reaction the only beacon of light during the darkness of his future mate's dread. "Just like the human scum of a step-mother that took your place."
"She's human..." she said in disgust.
"Yes, mother, she is. Now if you don't mind, i have matters to attend to." He walked past her and cleared his throat. "I knew the news wasn't to your liking which is why I was refraining from sharing. Sadly, you were so intent on learning. Perhaps, you shouldn't be so persistent mother. It never helped you before. So, it's quite obvious that it won't help you now or later."
"Are you freaking kidding me? Akemi, you are obviously not following the plan we all laid out!"
"That's because your idea sucked. And it's not the plan we laid out, it's the plan you laid out!"
"And we all agreed it was a good one!"
"Again, Grace, we didn't agree to anything! It's just something you want. So, go kick rocks, blow bubbles, suck a dick, and get over it."
"You are such a bitch, Akemi."
"And all the fucks I could give for that statement is locked away in a chest and tossed away in the Pacific. It's not coming back now." Akemi turned to Grace, a brunette with brown eyes with a pissed expression, and smiled in her face. "But honestly, feel free to wait for it. You have patience, right?"
"Ugh!"
Grace stomped off and walked to a different area as Akemi shrugged and turned back to the project at hand. The people of the group all looked to the dark-haired teen.
"Geez, Akemi you didn't need to be so harsh."
"I would remind you where my fucks to give are but I can't because I don't give a fuck enough to do so."
"Okay", said a person of the group. "I mean, I agreed with you about not liking Grace's idea but even I can't deal with you and your attitude! I mean, dude, you use to be so nice!"
Akemi looked up to him with dead violet eyes and quirked a brow. Everyone watched until they caught up. She didn't give a fuck about his opinion. They all sighed and groaned out and Akemi nodded, satisfied.
"Now that we are all on the same page, can we please finish this project? School is almost over and we just finished the research portion of the project. All we have to do is start building the display. Everyone has their roles, right?"
"Yeah, including Grace."
"Let's hope she follows through. She really doesn't like the idea of us throwing her idea out."
"She's a control freak. She needs to learn that the world and the rest of the solar system doesn't revolve around her. She's not the sun", Akemi said sitting back in her seat. "Hell, she's not bright enough to be."
"So, what if she doesn't do anything right?"
"I'll do her job just in case. I have the time. I don't know about you, but I want a good grade. This project isn't grade individually. That means if one of us fucks up, we'll all go down. I don't need Grace's attitude effecting my grade."
"Cool! So, every just needs to do their part and bring it back tomorrow so we can put it all together."
They all agreed just in time for the school's final bell to ring. With their goodbyes, the all left and Akemi packed her things and left the school. Because she was going to take on someone else's load, she had to go straight home. Lucky for her, someone didn't want that to happen.
"Akemi!"
With a groan and a roll of her eyes, she spun around and looked to the person calling her. "What do you want, Grace? I'm so not in the mood."
"Well yeah, just like you I don't give a fuck because you seem to never be in the mood."
"So, if you don't give a fuck why are you here?"
"Because you are such a stuck up, stubborn little bitch!"
"Yeah, that's my name. Don't wear it out."
Grace shook her head as she stared at the unbothered teen before her. "You know, I use to feel bad for you. You lost your parents to a car accident after planning a getaway for them. Yeah, I remembered how you'd raise the money to do it. And you were young enough to orphaned but old enough to feel the pain because you were so close to them. We never had to deal with an orphan in this town so everyone felt bad for you. Everyone pities you. After all, they were all you had. But I am tired of it! Your parents died, who cares? I shouldn't have to take your shit for it because you hate yourself for sending them off to their deaths!"
"You wanna patch up the ragging hole you call a mouth", Akemi spat. "It's best you do before, well you know, I shove my fist down it!"
"Oh please, everyone knows you're all talk and no bite! Sure, you'd start a fight but before you can do much it's separated. You never actually did much damage to back yourself up."
"No one's gonna stop me now, Gracey."
"That may be true but I got back up." At that, two girls walked out as if it were a queue in a movie scene. Akemi laughed out and rolled her eyes as she watched it. "It won't be so easy now."
"Oh okay, so you feel all big and bad because you got friends? News flash, dipshit, you're weak and you're showing it! You say I'm all talk? Look at you! You come spewing shit and then bring friends to jump me! If you wanna start something, finish it! But you got to make sure you handle it yourself. If you can't take the heat of the kitchen, stay out."
"What's this?"
At that everyone turned and there walked up Kagome and Takara. Akemi shrugged and turned back to Grace. "Well would you look at that? I got friends too! Looks like we're even. Only difference is I won't need them."
"All talk, Akemi."
"I'm a bitch, remember? I got bite."
"Akemi, let's go home", Kagome said grabbing her friend's hand. "Don't you have a project to work on?"
"See that? You can never do much! The fight is always broken up! We haven't even started yet."
"Now, Kags! Let me knock this hoe down a few notches. She's got her volume up to high. She needs a lower pedestal so the fall won't hurt as much when I force her to the ground."
"Say that shit to my face instead of behind you friend."
"She's not worth, Kemi. You already have three warnings from you last fights", Takara warned. "They can kiss my ass for all I care! My sister is not going to get suspended again!"
"That's all they ever do is suspend me. Hell, I can take a few more vacation days."
"It could be worse this time", Kagome murmured. "You could be the first person to ever be expelled. What will you do then?"
Akemi sighed out, nostrils flaring. Looking to the two friends she had, she nodded. "You're right", she mumbled. "I have to come up with a game plan first! I'm kick her ass, get expelled, runaway, and then get a job at a fast food restaurant! I'll go to the library and hide out until closing and live there at night! There, problem solved!"
"Problem not solved, Akemi", Takara hissed. "You're not going to fight Grace, and that's that! She's just upset because you stood up to her when no one else would about being controlling! Give it up! You already won this one! There is no need to fight! Now let's go home."
Akemi grunted as she shook out of the grip of her two friends. She snarled at Grace and rolled her eyes. "Damn it... fine! Let's go before I change my mind..."
Kagome smiled and nodded as she handed Akemi her backpack. She hadn't even realized she dropped it. She turned away, with Takara and Kagome walking behind her when Grae decided to speak up.
"Really? So, you're really going to walk away? After all of that! Like i said, you can't back up all your talk. And people say you get your mouth from your father. At least he would have kept his word. Even you mom! You just a cheap replica..."
"Heh", Akemi laughed out.
"Akemi no -
Before Takara could finish, Akemi ran past her and Kagome and threw her backpack at Grace's face. The girl fell back as her two friends ran forward. She kicked one in the stomach and pushed the other off her feet.
"Akemi please -
"Stay out of this, Kagome!"
"She's not even fighting because she's upset", Kagome whispered to Takara.
"I know", she whispered in exchange. "Just think, all this time she's been carrying the load of her parent's death. When did she really have time or the ability to release any of that?"
"So, you think it's okay for her to fight it off?"
"N-no but... look at her..."
Akemi repeatedly punched Grace in the face. The girl clawed at her face but Akemi ignored. But Akemi was crying hard. Her face was red but covered in tears. She was releasing.
"She'll kill them!"
"You're right... but they had it coming. You don't bring up her parents. Not like that."
"Then let's stop her", Kagome growled out. She then ran up to Akemi and grabbed her arms. "Akemi, stop! Let's go!"
"No! You don't talk about my -
"We get that", Takara yelled. "We get that! But don't do this for that! You are better than this, Akemi..."
The two successfully pulled Akemi off of Grace. Stumbling, Akemi broke down further and further. What was she doing? She was about to kill Grace! She doesn't even remember going up to her. Falling to the ground, she clutched on to Kagome and cried.
"I'm sorry... I'm sorry!"
"It isn't your fault! You have to stop blaming yourself", Takara whispered. "If you blame yourself for their death you're going to start blaming yourself for everything else."
"She's right! You didn't run the red light! You didn't crash into your parents' car! You didn't know any of that was going to happen!"
"B-but -
"The only thing you are guilty of is being a good daughter", Takara whispered. "I don't know anyone who'd spend their entire summer working and saving every last penny just to pay for a vacation for their parents' anniversary! You were being a great daughter! They died knowing that. They died happy because of you. They died thinking of how great and amazing their loving daughter is. So, stop... stop blaming yourself, okay?"
Akemi stared up at her sister and nodded her head. "Okay... okay..."
"What the fuck you mean you were trying to save her", Akemi growled out. "I'm going to rip your motherfucking face off! You piece of low down, dirty, raisin ass, duck shit!"
"Akemi, he's not even worth it!"
"No, he's not but you are, Takara! You are! You are my sister! You loved him, you cared about him! He was your cinnamon apple and you his caramel!"
"I know, Akemi!"
"Babe, let me fix this!"
"Say nothing! The only thing that going to be fix is you god damn ass when i shove my foot up it!"
"There's no fixing anything! We're done! Akemi, let's go home!"
"Let me kill the bastard first!"
"No!"
"You don't get it! I have too! The choosing is going to happen soon! I could -
"God damn it, Akemi I know!" Takara turned to Akemi with tears falling from eyes. Taken back, Akemi's mouth shut and she looked away. "I know, Akemi. Let's just go home."
Akemi nodded and looked away as Takara sighed. The two got in the car and Takara drove them home. The entire night was a quiet one, with the exception of their father going ballistic. Everyone knew about how Takara felt about her boyfriend. Then he cheats on her.
Apparently, it was happening for a while now too. Akemi had the feeling but she just wasn't sure. And by that she knew, deep down, something was off with the guy lately. He didn't seem as close as he used to be, but Akemi shook it off as nothing. Then she got suspicious one day. He was just way too different, way too hyper. So, she followed him and found him having sex with a chick in the area where they were renovating the new locker rooms. Akemi was pissed but she was worried about her sister more.
She knew how much Takara cared for the guy. She also knew what was at stake. The choosing was way too close. Without a doubt, Takara would definitely dump him with a classic "kiss my ass" to boot! What was she to do? The guilt and worry ate away at her until she began to show it. A good week and a half happened and the entire time Takara was getting more upset. Akemi was avoiding her. Then she pulled her to the side and told her to fess up. Akemi did and she and Takara confronted him. Knowing Takara would believe Akemi, he confessed. Not to mention, with a small town the truth would pop up the next day anyway. He couldn't keep it hidden any longer. And that's how it happened.
Then the next day Takara was chosen. Akemi nearly died.
"No... you can't take my sister! You -
"Get her", Takara's mom called out.
At that, their father grabbed Akemi and covered her mouth. The yokai looked to her and rolled his eyes. It happened on the regular basis, it wasn't anything new. Akemi struggled against her adoptive father's hold. Tears burned in her eyes as Takara walked to the yokai. The yokai looked to her and his brow jumped. He tilted his head and chuckled. It was his first time paying any attention to any girl other than the chosen ones. It scared Akemi and she froze.
When he left Akemi stormed off and went straight for the woods. She needed time to breathe. The only thing wrong was she didn't have her book.
"Akemi, wait! Save it because we're going camping. Come back so we can pack!"
"I shouldn't have said anything! I should have kept the secret longer... Just a little bit! You would be happy, you'd still be staying here and we'd go camping as much as we'd want!"
"Then what would have stopped it from happening next year, hm?"
"You'd have a boyfriend again by that time!"
"That's not guaranteed, Akemi! Getting a boyfriend here is hard! All girls are after the guys because of this! That's why they have such huge heads now. It's why they think they are on top of the world. They are all just assholes..."
"That's not the point, Takara! In a few days, you'll be gone. You're... you're..."
"Don't Akemi. You're blaming yourself again. This is not like your parents' death."
"But it is! I'll never see you again! We might as well say you're dead! And just like then, this happened because I had a hand in it! Why does everything I touch get destroyed! It's like fate doesn't want me to have a family or something! What's next? I get chosen and lose the parents I have now too?"
"Stop thinking like that!"
"I can't help it! Family is the most important thing I have! It's the only thing I want... And I keep losing more and more of it... First my brother -
"You had a brother?"
"Then my parents... now you. When will it all end?"
"Akemi... I didn't know."
"My mom lost him after an intruder broke in and pushed her down the stairs. She was seven months pregnant, about ready to pop! It's one of the reasons we moved. The house was getting dark and we needed a fresh start."
"Did you push her?"
"No, I actually hit the guy over the head with a bat and called my dad."
"Your brother not being born was not your fault. You didn't push your mom. You didn't kill your parents. You didn't make the choice for me to be chosen. None of this is your fault. You will have a great family. For you sacrifice, yours will grow and grow. You'll be a beacon for them. You're too great of and person and to beautiful to not have something as amazing as a family. Don't let things like this get in your way. Don't go blaming yourself for everything that goes wrong around you. Unless you perform the deed that destroyed something, it is not your fault. Am I understood?"
"Y-yes..."
"Oh God", Takara sighed out. He tears came down hot and heavy. Yet, she smiled and grabbed Akemi before pulling her into a hug. "I love you so much! Meeting you was one of the best things that's ever happened to me."
"Ditto", Akemi mumbled.
Days later they had the banquet. Akemi faked her way through it all. She pretended that she wasn't bothered. She acted as if it were a simple party and not a goodbye ceremony. She danced with her sister, joked around and provided smiles and laughs for everyone that were contagious. She brought life to a party that was meant for something all too similar to death. But deep down, she was dying. It wasn't until Takara had to leave that is all began to come forth.
"Akemi, I love you. You will always be my best friend and baby sister okay? Don't stop being you. I need you to be strong for mom and dad." She held Akemi's face in her hands and cried as she produced and smile and small laugh. "Keep singing too! You know how much I love it when you sing. In fact, join every talent show you can and maybe you can get out of here when you graduate." She kissed Akemi's cheek and hugged her tight. "I love you, Mimi. Don't forget that. Promise me you won't let this effect you. Continue to be you; don't stop anything that you've done before, okay?"
"Okay, I promise, I'll be me, I'll stay strong. Takara, I'll always remember and love you."
"Good", she said as a final tear rolled down her face. "Good." She held her hand tight and gave the most serious face she could muster. "And remember, this is not your fault. Say it."
"It's not my fault."
"None of it is."
"None of it", Akemi whispered.
"It's time", the yokai said. Akemi gave him a dirty look meanwhile he only smiled to her in return. "You don't know your fate, Akemi. You shouldn't cry."
"Don't talk to me like you know me", she hissed.
The yokai scuffed as he climbed into the limo. Akemi watched it drive away. Her parents both hugged close to her. They all cried. That night, Akemi cried it all into her pillow. Her family's death, losing her sister and best friend, it all cause her to have a drenched pillow. The next day, after falling asleep due to dehydration, she woke with a headache. She also woke with determination and a mission; make her birth parents and Takara proud.
Well, do you think she's on the right path?
Okay, okay! I'm sorry! I know, it's been three weeks! Look, I'm sorry! The thing is... I sorta gained a life! There was a lot of distractions happening. My grandma was here for three weeks when she was supposed to be here for two. School is not working out... I'm trying to help someone out with something! This chapter was a bonus surprise which I had to rewrite because my laptop is an asshole! And then also something else happened... It may include a guy... Not going into details! But anyway, here's the chapter. Sorry if it may have grammatical errors. I got lazy and only proof-read half of it. I'm tired you guys! Later, I'm thinking of going through all the chapters and updating them. But that's when the story is done. I don't know when that is. When the story is done and I update it with better grammar, I'll write a little chap about the where are they now or some shit like that. I don't know yet. We'll see when we get there. But I hope you guys like this chapter. Hopefully it'll give you a look into the past and answer some of your questions. Q&A will resume next chapter, don't worry. So. feel free to ask more. But until then, I have some questions of my own. It's a little quiz to see if you got what was happening in this chapter.
1. What is Akemi's middle name? Why was that choice made?
2. What age did Sesshomaru have the dream that determined his mate?
3. Why do you think Inutaisho allowed Sesshomaru to have so much contact with Akemi?
4. Why doesn't Akemi remember the contact she's had with Sesshomaru?
5. Is the darkness of the past the reason why Akemi is so hard on herself? Why?
6. What do you think happened to Squiggles?
7. Who was the yokai that came for Takara? Why was he interested in Akemi?
8. Why do you think Kimi was so interested in Sessh's mystery mate?
9. Why did Akemi's American parents want to name their children with Japanese names?
10. What do you think Melissa's, Akemi's mother, job was?
Okay, so I understand that not all the answers to these questions are in the chapter, but it wouldn't be fun if they were! Some of the questions are to get you thinking? What do you think is going on? And are you caught up on what's happening? That's what these questions are for. Also, my entertainment. You don't have to answer all of them if you don't want to. But maybe the person who does and has the most right or is the closest to the correct answer... maybe just maybe, I'll put them in the story. We don't know!
But I'd like to thank you all for your amazingness. I love you! You are so amazing for sticking with me so much. That's why I wanted to give you this chapter. The story and Q&A will continue next chap. I promise I'll try harder at not going three weeks. A lot happened and it was the holiday people. Give me a break! But i still love you! Leave reviews or PM me the answers. It's all cool either way! Thank you! Until next time my cheddar broccolis!