Disclaimer: I do not own Bleach or its characters; that right belongs to Tite Kubo. Nor do I own Inuyasha or its characters; that right belongs to Rumiko Takahashi.
1. Fur (noun): the short, fine, soft hair of certain animals
When she started to come to her mind instantly recalled the last memory she had. Causing her left hand to shift and search for what it had been holding onto — the soft ruff that had belonged to one Taiyoukai, Lord of the West, Sesshomaru. But there was nothing. She knew that the battle was done, over with. Naraku was dead, as was Magatsuhi. The damn wish had been made. So, why for all that was fucking holy to the Kami, did she not feel that soft fur of the mokomoko?
Slowly she opened her eyes and looked around. A frown was instantly gracing her lips as her azure eyes darted left and right. Easily able to tell with a glance that this was not the Sengoku Jidai. No, this was somewhere else and that there had been a battle of epic proportion fought here. The feel of whatever was used crawled across her skin. And it was mostly because of the God-like power of it all.
Frowning as she stood up, grimacing in pain, Kagome looked around as a breeze blew into the basin of the small crater, fluttering her short green school skirt. Before shrugging at not feeling any life nearby before looking around her to see the ground littered with dead bodies and strange weaponry. It took a while before she spotted something familiar. A short Wakizashi that wasn't broken. There was no bow and arrows, though. Then Kagome made her way out of the crater, leaving the dead bodies behind.
2. Fiber (noun): a threadlike structure forming part of the muscular, nervous, connective, or other tissue in the human or animal body.
It had started as weak. Barely there. Calling to every fiber of her body, pulling Kagome towards where the weak life force was at. Slightly annoyed, but hey, who was she to deny someone in need of help? It came with her being a Miko after all. Not that she had ever had formal training. Nope! So, with a sigh, she had made her way through the undergrowth that was left from whatever battle had taken place there.
It didn't take long before she found what was pulling her. And it gave her pause as she stared down at the odd little plant? No, creature? Human, maybe? Either way, the way its weak life force. And the way it was swaying away from her, even though there was no wind at all, told her that it was alive and aware. Which was cause for concern? She'd seen a lot of different types of demons in Feudal Japan. This didn't register as a demon, not quite. Nor did it fully register on her radar as a Human or plant — instead an odd amalgamation of the three.
Squatting down, Kagome narrowed her blue eyes at it. Reaching out a finger, she tapped what looked to be the top of it — causing the small black and white 'thing' to stiffen. Then she found herself jerking her finger back, as she landed on her butt. The damn thing just tried to bite her. Making her go on guard as her miko ki flared up around her body. Which had the damn plant pulling away as a whine in two very different voices cried softly from it. Leaving her even more confused and wondering just what the hell the Kami's were thinking this time?
3. Dalliance (noun): a brief love affair
Sitting on the grassy hill, Kagome heard the soft, tiny voices of her new traveling companion. Though bigger and a bit louder, they were still just whispering to her ears. Since acquiring her unique companion almost a month ago. Transplanting it, or rather him, into a small pouch she had found on the battlefield, filled with plenty of dirt. Kagome had learned a bit from Zetsu. Who was at odds not just with her, but with it, or himself, quite often.
And at times, it was rather annoying. Her mind shifted back to the small village they'd passed through. She had posed as a healer for the sick and wounded. Since the village had no one to fill that role, and they hadn't cared who she was just that she could heal with her chakra — making her life a bit easier with food and shelter — the money she didn't take much of it. Hell, a few of the guys in the village had started to get close to her, offering a respite, if not a bit of romance.
Which she had found that Zetsu hadn't liked. Her odd little companion had attacked one guy who seemed to stop by daily. He wasn't a bad man, per say. Though he did get a bit forceful, making it look as if a woman had to be married to be protected. Not fooled by his words, being able to read his aura, Kagome didn't want any kind of relationship with the man. Of course, she hadn't talked to Zetsu about it. So, when the man got handsy while she was giving water to Zetsu one evening, the man got a bit fresh with her.
Of course, Kagome had explained Zetsu as a Venus Fly Trap. Though she still left because the man had lobbied insults of witchcraft at her. Not wanting to have issues, Kagome looked at the small tribunal that had been gathered to try her. She looked at each of them dead in the eye, with no fear or shame. She was thanking every damn demon for teaching her the hard lesson of not being prey, informing them that the man had tried to assault her and got hurt by her plant. That she was leaving not to cause an issue. Understanding she was an outsider, but not some piece of ass that a man, or woman, could lay claim to. That she was a fighter on top of a healer. They could find someone else to help them.
Looking over at the soft dual laughter, she reached out and poked Zetsu, making sure her Miko Ki was coating her skin. She was getting a wide yellow gaze before it shrunk in its little pouch. Her eyes narrowed as she communicated her displeasure, which wasn't going to go away. Zetsu had no right to act out on its own.
4. Dysentery (Noun): an infection of the intestines resulting in severe diarrhea with the presence of blood and mucus in the feces.
Kagome pinched the bridge of her nose. Four damn months in this new strange world. Having learned a lot and now had a toddling small little black and white venus fly trap that talked in a dual voice, yeah, she had a headache. Moreso since it was complaining about stomach pain. Something she found rather funny, but wisely kept from laughing aloud about. Her companion could be a prickly little bastard. Very temperamental.
"It hurts!"
"Hush, you did it to us!"
Rolling her eyes as she stopped and looked back at the toddler-sized human-plant hybrid. Arching an eyebrow when 'they' noticed she had stopped moving and was looking at them. Causing them to shrink down and look up at her pleadingly.
"I told you not to eat that dead deer carcass. It was clear it was at least a few weeks old and rotting. Now you pay the price," she said.
When neither spoke up, she knelt and put herself almost on their level. Making sure their golden gaze didn't leave her blue one.
"If you want my help, you just have to ask… politely, nicely," Kagome said.
It was an ongoing thing trying to teach 'him' manners and other things. Though Zetsu had informed her many times they knew how to read, write, and many other things. And that they didn't need manners.
"..."
"Tummy hurts. What's wrong with us, Kagome!?"
Smiling a thin smile at the lack of proper manners, she stood up and started to walk again. Knowing full well what was wrong with, having been informed in great detail what happened last time they had… a call of nature. It was descriptive enough that she had to force herself to pretend nothing was wrong as she ate her roasted tuber and rabbit. And frankly, she was okay with her little friend suffering for a bit longer. It was their fault for not listening and not asking politely.
5. Relief (noun): a feeling of reassurance and relaxation following release from anxiety or distress.
Eyes closed as her head fell back on the smooth stone as she felt her body melt. It was heavenly. And somehow she was wondering if this was a thank you from her little friend who looked about seven years old? Not that it mattered to her right now. Zetsu was learning not to piss her off. And after their little bout of Dysentery three months back, they had been listening to her very well. Because the healing had been a bit more painful than the actual issues that their strange body was healing on their own. Which had led her to question them about what they were exactly?
Only to get the answer they were a creation by the Goddess Usagi. Now, having interacted with Demons, Demi-gods, and being a tool for the Kami's, she didn't disbelieve Zetsu. And that shocked them when she had admitted to being able to believe it either. Thus they'd grown an instant pair of little green balls and started playing her for answers as to why she would just believe them. Only to find her getting angry when she didn't want to talk about it.
That fight had led to both Zetsu and herself using talents that the other had not been aware of. Of course, she had come out on top as more than deadly to the little hybrid. Who had quelled in fear from her for a while? But then again, it had led to her current predicament, though a few months later, of being in a natural hot spring and relaxing.
Taking a deep breath through her nose as she enjoyed herself, she heard the pitter-patter of small feet on the ground too late. Her eyes shot open just seconds before the hot mineral water washed over her in a giant wave. She saw an insane yet happy smile on the two-toned smile on Zetsu's face. He left her sputtering in indignation at having her peace being disturbed. But then again, she had always enjoyed taking a bath with Shippo.
6. Comfort (noun): a state of physical ease and freedom from pain or constraint.
A tear fell from her eyes. Her body shook as she was rocked. There was no reason why she should have had such a nightmare. It had almost been a year since she arrived, so there was no reason for her to have dreams of the past, of the fight against Naraku. Yet here she was sobbing and being given comfort by her odd little companion and friend. Who had both parts mumbling nonsense to calm her down.
Lifting her head as she felt her body being covered, Kagome realized she was now on the inside of the two parts of the outer body of Zetsu. They were shocking her as she instinctively cuddled into the warmth of the body. They had been very particular about not letting her see their body, ever. And that they'd harm her to the best of their ability if she forced it. Now, in their bid to bring her succor, they were letting her into their personal space, which had her sighing and stopping her crying as her arms wrapped around them. Eyes slowly falling shut again as the heat of their body enveloped her. They are making her feel safe and secure.
7. Aspirate (verb): breathe (something) in; inhale
Kagome had her hands wrapped around her waist and was rolling back and forth on the ground, kicking her legs into the dirt. Because the scene before her was just too damn priceless, she had found all the ingredients in nature to make Curry. And having procured Rice at the last village made it perfect. And, of course, she hadn't thought to ask before making the curry-like she always did.
Now Zetsu was wheezing as he sucked in the spicy curry, which was too much for the hybrid to handle. It was too damn priceless. And the dirty look they were giving her meant that she would be on the receiving end of whatever diabolic plan they could concoct to get revenge. And until it happened, Kagome would tease the ever-living shit out of the bastard. While mentally making a note to not make the curry so spicy next time.
8. Churlish (adjective): rude in a mean-spirited and surly way.
Yellow and blue eyes clashed in a silent argument. Neither wanting to give in. And it had been an ongoing thing since the curry incident a week ago. But there was only so much mulishness a person can take. And that limit had been reached. So, Kagome didn't break her gaze as she is reaching into her backpack, pulling out a small necklace of round wooden beads painted purple with little bits of rose quartz spaced between every fourth bead. Enough was enough!
Placing her hands together, the beads over both pointer fingers, she focused her Reiki into them before jerking her hands apart. The way Zetsu's eyes shot wide as they tried to dodge the floating beads had her giving a cruel, mean laugh. Yeah, this was harsh, but his attitude over her honest mistake and her laughing about his reaction had gone too far. The moment the beads were in place, Kagome reached up a hand and touched what was left of her hair, a little pixie bob that was just below her earlobes.
"Float," she said, an image in her mind.
In the next instance, Zetsu was floating helplessly in the air. Sniffing Kagome flipped him a twin bird, Kagome turned her back on them and sat down to finish eating her dinner and missing her long, beautiful wavy locks. Figuring he was half plant and needed to feel the ground as it was part of his talents and in this place, flying was very unnatural, this was a suitable punishment if he pissed her off.
9. Onomatopoeia (noun): The formation of a word from a sound associated with what is named (e.g. cuckoo, sizzle ).
Yawning, Kagome rolled over, eyes cracking open. A shrill scream ripping from her mouth as her gaze met Zetsu's who was only inches from hers. The startled look on his face lasted for but a few seconds before they smiled toothily at her and jerked back to show her a book. A very familiar text was making Kagome groan in annoyance because they'd gone through her backpack, again.
"We… want to know the words!"
"Teach us?"
Their words registering as she finally sat up and shoved her short hair out of her face. Already knowing it stuck up around her head like a halo, curly and a pain in the butt to take care of. Reminding her why her mother always kept her hair long.
"You… want me to teach you the words? But you can read and write," she said.
The frown she received before the book was thrust into her lap. And then she understood. It was her High School English Textbook. And they spoke Japanese as she did. So, this was rather amusing.
"Those words, they don't make sense, Kagome."
"You can read?"
Nodding her head, she held out her hands for the book. When it was placed in her hands, she flipped the pages to the beginning. Where simple words for smaller children were listed. Pointing at the first word, she looked at them and smiled and thinking back to teaching Shippo how to read, unaware of the distant and sad look in her eyes.
"This language is English. And this word is Moo," she explained. Before having to break it down further into the English Alphabet and pronunciation.
10. Lalochezia (noun): Emotional relief gained by using indecent or vulgar language.
She was swaying back and forth, eyes squinting as she looked at Zetsu. She felt the warmth spreading through her body. It had taken a lot more than she had thought to get her to this point. But lifting a finger, she pointed at her companion of the last eighteen months. Who was now taller than her, definitely male to boot. And while odd-shaped and color, not too bad to look at.
"You… Gentlemen can be fucking huge walking assholes!" she said, hardly slurring her words.
The reaction she got from Zetsu had her smiling as she felt as if a weight was lifting from her tiny shoulders.
"I mean… seriously… every damn guy and a few women, you chase off! What the hell you bastards! I mean… what are you jealous? Am… I like a piece of property you two dipshit fucking own!? I think not!" she continued, ranting at them, enjoying how much lighter she felt as she vented.
The way they started to smile and shake their heads as they shoved the sake bottle at her. Kagome lifted an eyebrow (or thought she did) as she picked up the bottle and looked at it for a few seconds before just drinking directly from it. They are wondering why they, themselves, were not drinking. Before just deciding, it left more for her to have.
11. Triskaidekaphobia (noun): fear or a phobia concerning the number 13.
Stunned, shocked, astounded, all good adjectives to describe her state of being. Her eyes widen as she stared at the shrieking and panicking Zetsu. He had darted as far from the small dice set as possible as he could without leaving the camp and her. She had thought to play ten thousand with him. A simple enough Dice game with the six dice she had picked up in the two days ago, along with a few necessities.
"It is evil!"
"Bad Omen!"
Flicking her eyes down, she added up the six dice. Seeing it totaled thirteen. Before shrugging and shaking her head. It was her turn anyways. If her friend wanted to have a little freak out session, that was their business. But she was playing to win. Scooping up the dice, she put it in the small clay teacup, placed her hand over it, and shook it while Zetsu continued to wail piteously.
When she tossed it on the ground, she looked to see if there were three or more dice the same number. Only to let out a loud whoop. There were five fives, meaning she just scored the last thousand points and won the game. When she looked over at Zetsu, who was still shaking but giving her a nasty look for winning, Kagome threw her head back and laughed.
"Cheater!"
"You used our fear against us! That is wrong."
At their accusations, Kagome smiled and pointed at their neck, opening her mouth and watching as they huddled into a smaller ball. They were not wanting to be sent floating.
12. Dismemberment (Verb: often used with an object): to divide into parts; cut to pieces; mutilate.
The snow was falling around them. It had been just over two years since Kagome's arrival in this foreign land. She was having learned a lot about the history from Zetsu and the people. And that she was not too fond of Ninja at all. Sneaky, arrogant jerks. But it had taught her that they had demon blood in them, or at least some did. Which she learned from Zetsu was called a Kekkei Genkai. One of which had pursued her as she left the small village.
Of course, she was used to blood. But she had to appreciate just how efficient Zetsu was as he placed each piece of the bastard's body in a neat row. The snow was melting and turning various shades of pink to red that was almost black while cackling — leaving her to wonder how the hell she attracted all the ones that were off balance. Though she was grateful for him defending her so that she didn't have to use her powers in this place. Mikos didn't exist. Priest, Priestesses, and Monks did, none had the actual spiritual ability.
"Look, little ants marching in a row!"
"Is it time to eat?"
Feeling horrified at their odd habit of wanting to eat whatever they killed, Kagome rushed forward and grabbed one of their arms — drawing their attention to her before shaking her head no. Then with a sharp tug, began to lead them in a different direction they'd been going. Knowing that Zetsu would cover their tracks in the snow as he had been.
13. Constitutionality (noun): accordance with the constitution of a country, state, etc.
Trouble, that was what her companion was. And now she was paying for it. Once more, Kagome questioned why in the last two years and three months she stuck with him. Just to have her subconscious remind her because they followed her and wouldn't leave no matter what. Even on the threat of pain of death by her Miko Ki. Though right now, that was an option she was seriously considering as she sat there at a rather large village's head chiefs table being accused of stealing and killing a few sheep.
That those in the Mist Country didn't tolerate thievery, and Kagome was innocent. And she was not so sure that Zetsu was. Then again, it was her fault for telling them they had to hunt for their food, and she wanted something fatty and different. Sarcasm had been missed on the jerk.
"Miss, we caught you with the almost completely eaten carcass," the village chief stated.
"I will say it again. I did not kill the beast," she said, her blue eyes boring into the mans.
Seeing him grow unnerved by her, Kagome toned it down a bit. Between demons and Zetsu, she was picking up some habits that were not good for her — making her harder than she should be.
"You hold to this. Then who did? A traveling companion?" the man asked her.
Shaking her head, she refused to throw Zetsu under the bus. He had brought her the dead animal, but it was skinned and cleaned already. A bit too neatly for it to be Zetsu now that she thought about it. Meaning they had to have taken it from somewhere else. Opening her mouth to speak, there was a loud knock on the door that brought everything to a halt. She felt Zetsu's aura outside the door, causing her to feel a small bit of panic in the pit of her stomach, as well as several unknown ones.
When the village elder opened the door, there were three men all tied up, gagged and wide-eyed in torn and bloody clothes. The moment the Village Chief turned to look at her, in his hand was a small piece of paper. Kagome knew what Zetsu had done. J
"If that is all, may I go?" Kagome asked sweetly, a smile on her face. Ready to be done with this place and it's laws.
14. Shoemaker (noun): a person who makes or mends shoes.
Pouting, she sat on a small, uncomfortable stool and waited. Her shoes had finally worn out. And Zetsu was having to take a liking to capture bad people and delivering them so Kagome could get funds had helped. And this place was not bad, just that people there gave her the creeps. Of course, Zetsu had sworn to her that he knew this place wouldn't question them. Or rather, him. Hell, when they had walked into the ramshackle town, and the people saw Zetsu, they'd gone still and quiet. Before rushing into the various buildings.
There was a mix of fear and excitement coming from everyone's aura before a tiny wizened woman came out and called Zetsu by his name. Claiming he should have been dead in the war two and a half years ago. Leaving Kagome to wonder exactly what she meant but didn't ask. So, the small conversation Zetsu had with the woman, who was named Kiki, was brief before they were shown to the small building she now sat in.
"Here we go, miss. You have very tiny feet, but they are callused enough I can tell you've had to do a lot of travel in your young life," the cobbler said.
When her feet were picked up, and toeless heeled sandals were slipped on, she felt odd. She knew that these were ninja sandals for the kunoichi. It had her feeling odd. But then again she wouldn't complain. So she reached for her wallet only to have the man stops her with a shake of her head. Before, it was explained to her that the organization that Zetsu had once belonged to helped the village. Not everyone here had a criminal past but were still persecuted by their own countries. Understanding, she just smiled at the man and stood up and tried out the low heeled sandals. Finding them to be a lot more comfortable than they looked.
15. Fuzz (noun): loose, light, fibrous, or fluffy matter.
A loud rumbling was coming from the shut edges of the Zetsu outer Flytrap body. With intermittent sneezing. And to Kagome, it was rather humorous. Then again, it gave her insight into Zetsu, who was not too happy about their current predicament as they were sprouting fluffy white seeds similar to a Dandelion — and having a mild allergic reaction to it.
Which brought up the question in the years she had been traveling with them, him, why was this just now happening? Did it have to do with them leaving Amegakure? Being in Konohagakure? With the more temperate instead of wet weather? There were so many questions. And with a dark chuckle that had the grumbling from her companion stopping as their whole body shuddered, sending off more of the adorable little fluffs. Kagome swore to whatever Kami was listening; she'd get her answers one way or another. But first, giving a childish giggle, she ran to chase the fluff, enjoying the warm sunlight that filtered through the trees — delighting in a simple pleasure she'd not had since she was little.
Completely unaware as her companion watched in awed silence of her actions.
16. Furbutt (noun): A common nicknamefor an obese housecat.
It wasn't that she was upset, but somehow Kagome was beginning to feel like she hated Ninjas. Currently, thanks to a stupid jutsu or something or other, she was presently trapped as a rather large black and gray striped cat. And she was being toted around like a small child. Now she knew how Buyo felt when she did this to him when she was rather emotional. Mentally she sent up a silent prayer for forgiveness to not just Buyo but all cats who had to suffer this indignation.
"Oh, who's a pretty little furry butt!"
"This is fun, edible?"
A small shudder ran through her body as she lifted her blue eyes to look at Zetsu before yowling loudly and attempting to swipe at his face. She was not obese!
17. Shiny (adjective): bright or glossy in appearance.
They are giving a small puff of air, watching as it condensed into a little white cloud before her. Catching the sun. At the way, the small partially frozen water crystals shimmered in the light.
"Pretty! How did you do that?"
"It looks simple."
Turning to look at Zetsu, who was closer than she had thought, Kagome smiled and inhaled and puffed out another breath. Marveling how they were at times like this, they were so naive and innocent. Taking a small bit of pleasure in the odd dual-toned oh they gave at seeing her breath partially freeze on the crisp winter air.
(adjective)
used as a nonsense word by children to express approval or to represent the longest word in English.
The looks she was getting as she continued to sing the simple song. It had taken three years for it to happen again, but here she was kidnapped. And as she sang the catchy little ditty from Mary Poppins. Kagome silently hoped that Zetsu would get there and take care of this small group of brigands. And hopefully, bring her something more than a towel to wear.
"Girlie, keep that trap shut!"
Looking at the man, she took a deep breath and began to sing the song again. All while shivering in the frigid winter nights air.
19. Holocaust (noun): great or complete devastation or destruction, especially by fire.
Rage didn't even begin to cover what she was seeing. Zetsu was beyond angry, and from what they were doing, this made her think back to her history lessons and the holocaust. She could see the way their yellow eyes flashed with rage as the small band of would-be kidnappers were taken out. It honestly scared her, which was saying something considering all she had done in her short life.
When Zetsu lifted one of the men with vines, pulling each of his four extremities in different directions, Kagome couldn't take it. Standing up on shaking legs, Kagome stumbled in a fearful, panicked state and wrapped her arms around him.
"Don't… he isn't worth killing and staining your hands… Please, Zetsu…" she cried out, face pressed against his back.
When the only sounds she heard were the crackling of fire from the camp being burned, wind blowing, and Zetsu's faint heartbeat. Before feeling Zetsu shift in her embrace, making Kagome look up at him.
"Death is what they deserve, hurting you."
"Dead, rotting, decay."
Slowly she shook her head back and forth. Before there was a resounding thump as Zetsu turned towards her. She was still feeling a bit of fear as her eyes met theirs before the world shifted around them. Just to appear back in their camp.
20. Archaic (adjective): (of a linguistic form) commonly used in an earlier time but rare in present-day usage except to suggest the older time, as in religious rituals or historical novels.
Kagome held in her hand an ancient book that they'd found in the debris of what looked to be an old, dilapidated building. It seemed to have been either a military housing or some secret type of lab? Maybe a mix of the two? Either way, she was able to read the text as she had a book that held similar text. Making her wonder about this world.
Sighing as she flipped through the text, face contorting as she read about cloning and creating artificial souls. Only to pause when she heard a soft whimper from her companion. Looking up from the pages, she saw Zetsu was leaning away and looking fearful. Arching an eyebrow, she looked around to see what could have scared her rather dangerous friend, realizing a few seconds later it was her as she felt her reiki surrounding her.
"Sorry," she mumbled as she got herself under control. "It's just what is in this book. And I am sure a few of the others that are readable."
The look they gave her had Kagome closing the book and looking at him intently. Carefully she shifted from looking at him to see his aura. Reading it and feeling her frown grow bigger.
"Zetsu, exactly what is this place?" she asked in a sweet-honeyed voice.
The way her companion stiffened and suddenly refused to meet her gaze was all she needed. Huffing, she stood up and dusted herself off. Shooting him a dark look as she picked up a few more books and began to walk away. Hearing him start to follow, making her pause, turn, and hold up a hand to make him stop.
The hurt on his face let her know he got the message. And until he was willing to tell her, she didn't want him nearby. They'd agreed that secrets were dangerous. Something she hated, would not abide by this time around. Especially after her kidnapping. Which led to her explaining her power and him his past, which was rather dark, nasty, and sad. Turning again, she walked to a different part of the crumbling building.
21. Bumbo (noun): a drink of rum, sugar, water, and nutmeg
The potent drink had her brain buzzing in a delightful fluffy manner. It was an odd mixture but delicious nonetheless. And she needed it. It had taken a few days before Zetsu had come to talk to her. She was honest. Which she could tell he had argued with himself over a lot by the way his aura would flick and then dim to her eyesight. She had been so angry she had told him to get away from his safety. She was purifying the damn compound that had belonged to a very insane asshole who was trying to play god and be immortal.
As she had purified the damn building, she had found remnants of things in tubes and many other things that had her vomiting and ill afterward. This man was creating Hanyous. Her state of being had worried Zetsu much. Hence why she was now in a small dive bar in a seedy town with her companion hiding in her shadow. Not that her aura was not menacing, but because she was a magnet for stupid idiots who thought to kidnap her.
Picking up the tankard, she tipped her head back and chugged the drink and enjoying the burn of the Alcohol and spicy warmth of the nutmeg. Trying to make her brain remember what it was called and the portions of the ingredients. She wanted to drink this again.
22. Vitriol (noun): something highly caustic or severe in effect, as criticism.
"I was just pointing out girlie that a small, pretty thing like you shouldn't be traveling on her own. There is a lot of dangers in this world," the man said, smiling.
When he leaned into her personal space, Kagome held her ground, refusing to lean away. Instead, she just snorted and chose to ignore the man. She could feel Zetsu getting very agitated from where they hid in her shadow — making her fight to keep the smile from her face.
"I am serious — your petite, almost delicate in features. You'd be food for the bandits and rogue ninja of Iwa," the man continued.
Rolling her eyes, Kagome finally looked at him and glared hard. Keeping her Reiki on a tight leash, she made him back up from her glare alone. Glad that Zetsu had been working with her on her intimidation and hand to hand skills. Which both had bemoaned were pathetic. Horrible enough that she was hopeless and would be kicked from any academy for her ineptitude. Which had hurt, so she had practiced on her own for a bit before attempting to attack him.
The memory of her catching him off guard by just being in their space, hugging them before leg sweeping them haphazardly to the ground. Trying to follow up with a punch before they had her pinned to the ground beneath them. It had left her in shock and laughing at the look on their faces.
"Look, if I wanted a travel companion, I would get one. And it wouldn't be you. I find you to be odoriferous. So, if you don't leave me alone, Mister, whoever the hell you are, I will get angry," she hissed softly at him. "Besides, the last three years, I have been traveling this land all by my pretty, little, and delicate self."
The way the man jerked back made her smile widely as she turned back to her food.
"You'll regret this girl," the man growled at her.
As he stood up to leave, Kagome giggled and spoke, "I don't think so. And if you are not careful, you'll become food for the animals because karma has a way of destroying those who think they are at the top of the food chain."
23. Knitting (noun): the act of forming a fabric by looping a continuous yarn.
Kagome mumbled loop one tuck two, loop one tuck two, over and over as she focused on the project in her hands. She was occasionally glancing at the book to her side. Zetsu was out doing whatever they did when they got bored, which she had learned early on after they obtained an adult form and most of the full ninja abilities back. But that was a good thing; she didn't want them to see her horrid attempt at this project.
It was a month until Christmas, and after three years and two months of travel, Kagome felt the need to give them something as a gift for the things they had done and or procured for her. So, the small scarf she was working on in black and white would have pale green tassels for them on Christmas if she had her way.
24. Peripheral (adjective): Anatomy. Near the surface or outside of; external.
Nervous, that was the only thing you could call her as she watched from the corner of her eye as Zetsu looked down at the crayon-colored brown paper package with its name on it. There were limited funds, so she had purchased what she could in the last town a week ago. Twine, crayons, a small piece of ribbon. They had twine on them for obvious reasons of stringing up the tarp she used as a shelter during the cold and wet seasons.
She was suppressing her urge to laugh aloud when Zetsu poked the package. It was clear from the greens and blues in their darker purple and silver aura that they were highly confused. But when they lifted it and sniffed it, Kagome shifted slowly to press her hands over her mouth to help smother her giggles. When they stopped and looked around as she continued to spy on them from where she lay. She was enjoying their reactions. So suspicious, guarded, yet curious like a child.
Then they tore off the paper and cried in adulation at the scarf that spilled out. Their hands were catching it quickly before it hit the snow-covered ground. Making Kagome sit up as they turned to look at her, lifting it so she could see. Though the way their eyes sparkled in the early morning light let her know that they knew it was from her. Probably when they had sniffed the package.
"Merry Christmas, Zetsu!" she said.
Kagome watched as their mouth fell open in shock.
25. Buttfloss (noun): Slang for thong in the sense that the thongacts as a type of 'floss' within the crack of the person wearing it.
Kagome was mortified as she looked at Zetsu. Who was currently holding up a pair of panties to her like a trophy? The only thing that was keeping her from wanting to melt into the ground was the fact that they had left the city a few hours ago, which had shocked her that they'd gone into the city in the desert. Zetsu had been more than adamant about them going to the city when he usually wanted to avoid any living establishment with more than a hundred people in it.
He had even worn a cloak and hood so he could walk with her. Aided by one of the sutras to help hide his odd coloring. Their story was that they were her big brother with special needs… due to their habit of both talking. The Ninja had been polite to a point. Though because they had no paperwork as they traveled all over the place having no home, they'd been assigned a shadow.
"Happy Birthday!"
"Your gift. The ninja guide assured you'd like this."
Not wanting to hurt their feelings at the tiny piece of fabric that would just barely cover her decently, Kagome reached up and took the pale, lacy green garment from them. Her mind was imagining that guide, Kankuro, being staked out in public and flogged viscously.
"Thank you. I will wear this when I get the chance… Zetty," she said. "It is very pretty. But this is something you won't be able to see me… As it goes under all my clothes."
The sad look that crossed only half of their face let her know that at least one part of them was well aware of what this was — making her again image that ninja being tossed in his man panties into a large tree that was a wasp nest.
"Oh, don't worry, I promise to wear it. Now, let's continue. I wanna reach that oasis on the map we got before sunrise," Kagome said. "And thank you for remembering my birthday.
Yeah, turned 19 and got sexy, tiny, barely there panties from a good friend. Most awkward birthday ever.
26. Ink (noun): a dark, protective fluid ejected by the cuttlefish and other cephalopods.
She couldn't help it, they were in Tea country, and the current village was on the edge of the ocean, which Kagome loved. Having promised Zetsu, she'd make something special if they could procure either a squid or octopus from the village while staying in disguise. Of course, they had excelled at the task given. No real problems except maybe overpaying. A thing she was still working with them on.
What was so amusing was that they had bought a live octopus. Kagome knew how to prep it, which had her sending a silent thank you to her mother. And for his endeavors was now coated in the cephalopods natural defense mechanism, Ink, which she did need to make the noodles that would go with the meat.
"I don't like this. It needs to die!"
"Foul, dirty."
Shaking her head, Kagome walked over to them with a damp towel and began to wipe their face and outer petals of their body. Enjoying the fact that they were not happy, she was treating them like a small child. So glad to have them as her companion.
27. Hunt (Verb: used with an object): to search for; seek; endeavor to obtain or find (often followed by up or out )
Crouching low, Kagome slowed her breathing, forcing her heartbeat to lower. There was a ninja from Fire Country tracking them. Zetsu had gone in a different direction to throw a part of the party off their trail. And since she didn't have any chakra, it would make tracking her harder. A good thing. Not that she wasn't keeping track of those that would think to capture her.
Not an idiot, or useless, like she had been called by her former friend Inuyasha, Kagome hunkered down, back pressed to the tree and let her Reiki leak into it. Something she had noted from Zetsu that she was able to do with ease. And let it seep through the surrounding plant life until on a mental map she was making three different auras popped up. Two masculine, the other female in nature. Gentle almost.
Sighing, she hoped Zetsu would get back to her soon; otherwise, there'd be a significant problem on their hands again. There was no way she could fight ninja's head-on. It was not in her nature to harm other people. Though if she had to, she could. But that would leave her guilt-ridden.
Pulling herself out of her thoughts, Kagome kept her Reiki connected to the tree when she stiffened and looked up wide-eyed. At some point, a fourth aura had popped up out of nowhere. Her blue eyes met those of a man with white hair. Both eyes were coal gray for but a few seconds, before the left eyes shifted, turning red with three little tomoes spinning.
There was no chance to react other than to shove a massive burst of her Reiki into the tree in the hopes that Zetsu, being intuned with plants around him, would feel it before her world swam as she felt Youkai and passed out.
28. Atrocious (adjective): shockingly bad or tasteless; dreadful; abominable
Once again, she had been kidnapped. And it was rather annoying. So, she sat there in the cold room, in a metal chair with her wrists shackled to a cold metal table. The man before her had tried asking her questions. To which she gave her name and age. She had no affiliation to any village. Or even a country in all honesty.
The man just wouldn't get it through his head. Yes was incapable of lying. And the silver-haired man who had knocked her out had said she exuded some strange energy. Which she told them as part of her being a Miko. That had the man laughing at her, so she read his aura and smiled at him. This had been four days ago.
Now she was in this room with a tall blond boy who held a demon in his body. It had her recoiling from the boy and frowning. She was angry, and it had her Reiki spiking dangerously because what was sealed in him was a kitsune. Who talked with the boy.
"Miss, Kurama wants to know how you have... that uncomfortable power," the boy spoke.
"I was born with it. And I am thoroughly appalled. It is wrong what they have done to both of you. It is unnatural, forbidden," Kagome snapped.
The way the boy's eyes widened as he seemed to talk to the Fox sealed in his body, before shaking his head. There was a small, sad smile on his face.
"I accepted it a long time ago. But Kurama says that you are a legit Miko. Unable to lie or even hurt other people. Though harmful to us, you are not a threat to this village. Except for the scent that was on your clothes when Kaka-sensei brought you in," the boy stated. "Why do you smell of the former Akatsuki Nuke-Nin Zetsu?"
Wisely, she said nothing and just stared forward. She was worried about her friend and his anger.
29. Boobs (noun): A female breast.
"They are a nice pair. That is all I am saying," a deep male voice said from outside her prison.
Keeping her eyes closed as she let her other senses read their auras. She had felt Zetsu though he wasn't in the village yet. She snorted at that thought, making the two outside her cell cease speaking. This place was too big, to populated to be a village. It was the same size, if not larger than Suna. It was a flipping city.
"Anyways, I didn't mean to see them. It happened by accident when I opened the door. Very nice," the man continued.
She sat up and sighed. "It isn't nice to lie!" she called out.
This had both the people who were currently on guard duty looking through the small barred window in the door to the cell. One was looking amused and the other blushing while trying to frown.
"And I am more than aware of how nice my breast are thank you very much! Perverts have ogled them for a long time," she snipped.
This had both guards chuckling at her as she laid back down on the cot.
30. Enthusiastic (adjective): Full of or characterized by Enthusiasm.
The blond boy was again in the interrogation room with her and that scarred man they called Ibiki Morino. She just looked impassively at them. There was no way she would betray her friend though she was pretty upset that all her items in her backpack were on display on the table before her. Books from that detestable lab, clothing, first aid kit, knitting needles, and on top of it all was the small lacy thong that Zetsu had gotten her earlier in the year for her birthday.
It was the only racy pair of panties she had, preferring briefs that gave decent covering to her lower extremities. But that didn't explain why the boy was bouncing where he stood. It had her on edge.
"Miss, after going through your personal effects and talking with a few people who had been put on a particular mission a few years ago. It has come to light that you were once in the lab of a former nuke-nin and former Sanin of this village, Orochimaru," Ibiki stated.
She nodded her head once to acknowledge what he was saying while the boy began to fidget.
"We sent people back to the ruins of the Lab in Sound, and what we found shocked us. The place was covered by a lot of vines, flowers, grass and small trees. Which should be impossible due to the experiments being conducted there and how saturated the evil was," Ibiki again stated.
Before she could speak, the boy was leaning over the table, his nose almost pressed against hers. It was so adorable, and just like a kitsune would do.
"You did it, didn't you? You purified that place…" he said, speaking fast.
Waiting until Ibiki pulled him back, Kagome nodded her head once.
"Were you in the company of the former Akatsuki member Zetsu when you did this?" Ibiki asked her.
She just sighed and stared past him to the wall. More feeling than seeing the frustration in the man's aura. While she felt Zetsu shift from where he was hiding in the city, he was coming for her.
31. Moochicken (adjective): A word used to be random and confusingly describe something.
It was a term that she had randomly blurted out to Zetsu at one point. She was causing both of them to break out into a round of laughter that had them tearing up. And was now an inside personal joke. Her captors had allowed her out on a leash. They were giving her sunshine and fresh air for the first time in two weeks she'd been held a prisoner in the damn village of Konoha. Not that she resented the people for doing what they did. Protecting their home was essential.
Now, she walked around with a tall boy with shaggy brown hair and red markings. It had her staring a lot, which had the boy preenings, while he was seriously nervous about it.
"What?" he finally asked.
"Nothing, your markings made me think of an old friend's older half brother. And your dog, Akamaru? He is a handsome thing," she said as she looked away.
Her hand had, at some point, threaded through the white fur. Each step she took, Kagome could feel Zetsu mimic from one street over in the shadows. He was watching, waiting. And a part of her felt bad for not saying anything, but she wanted to be free to roam this land with her friend again.
"Are you alright?" the boy asked.
Looking at him, she gave a small, sad smile as she nodded before speaking. "MooChicken!"
The word was spoken loud enough to be heard for a reasonable distance. And had her guard looking at Kagome like she was crazy before bursting out laughing at the randomness of it. Now she knew that Zetsu knew she was okay.
32. Incorrigible (adjective): Bad beyond correction or reform
Frustrated, that was what she was. Between the blond boy who was the living container for a very powerful demon and Zetsu, she didn't know who was more incorrigible! And she wanted to pull her damn hair out. The boy had taken an extreme liking to her as had that fox. Who had shocked everyone by openly talking to Kagome directly in front of everyone that was in attendance for another episode of getting Kagome to Talk!
White Zetsu was trying to find ways past the wards and alarms that were set around the building she practically lived in. Kagome was going nuts being locked up. And between the two males in her life that had seemingly taken a personal interest in her, Kagome was just done!
33. Dirigible (noun): Airship
Another week had gone by. Summer was now turning into fall. The air was crisper, with an odd clean, and musty smell to it. There were signs all over the leaves, turning to their various shades of red, orange, and yellow, making Konoha look beautiful. But that was not something she was paying attention to at the moment. Nope, she was highly focused on the artist pad before her as she sketched out horrible semblance to a blimp.
Which had those gathered around her asking a multitude of questions? Of course, she answered by speaking up just loud enough to be heard by others passing on the street, since she was on a bench in the park. It was a form of communicating with Zetsu. Who she knew was getting increasingly agitated, and that could prove disastrous. She cared for the strange hybrid person. They were technically her first friend (not by choice) upon arriving in this world.
And she knew that they needed her to confirm when she could to stay calm and happy. Impetus was an excellent word to describe them. Added to the fact they loved to hear the stories of things from her world. Because, well, they believed her in that regard. While it was something she had not shared with anyone else.
34. Charismatic (adjective): Of, having, or characteristic of charisma
The shackles had been removed from her wrist. It was odd not feeling that uncomfortable weight against her skin. But Kagome said nothing as she was led down several hallways before up a long spiraling set of stairs. She could guess where they were taking her, and it had her nervous. The man that had captured her was the Hokage of this Village. One Hatake Kakashi. A man who could almost charm the birds from the trees. He had tried to do it to her to get her to break, cave, and give them the information they wanted.
Sighing as they made the top of the stairs, Kagome almost stumbled at the familiar aura that was on the other side of the door with the Hokage. Steeling herself, letting her face look impassive as the door swung open after one of her guards was given permission to open it. Kagome almost couldn't believe her eyes at what she was seeing.
Eyes burning with tears of happiness and worry as Zetsu slowly turned to look at her. Their yellow eyes were relieved. A smile on their bi-colored face as they tilted their head. Unable to help it, she let out a shaking sob and jerked herself from the grasp of her guards. Rushing forward, she jumped and hugged Zetsu and not caring at the spectacle she made.
"Kagome! We want you safe. Friend!"
"We didn't attack and eat these people, because your safety is important."
Giving a teary chuckle as gasp came from everyone there. Kagome just buried her face into Zetsu and cried.
35. Prattle (Verb: used without object): To talk in a foolish or simple-minded way; chatter, babble.
In short order, the room was sealed, with a select few in attendance. Of which, Kagome had refused to speak to the two older people Homura and Koharu. She flat out said that their auras were tainted with greed and pride. That they were not people, she would ever trust. Of course, it had led to her babbling like an idiot as she attempted to explain how and why.
The whole time not noticing how everyone was smiling as the two elders were horrified and pissed. Once Zetsu clamped a hand over her mouth to silence her, causing everyone but the two in question to laugh. She blushed and licked Zetsu's hand, making them yelp and grumble in disgust about her getting her germs all over their hands.
Now, they stood there waiting for the final verdict of the Hokage, his aid Shikamaru, Naruto container to the Kyuubi, Ibiki, A boy named Sasuke with his wife, and a beautiful blond woman who was much older than she appeared called Tsunade. She had told her story in all its entirety from beginning to end. From the day she fell down the well until she was captured.
Trying to gloss over the… present Kagome got earlier in the year from Zetsu. Who hadn't let her, no that bastard had blurted out a ninja named Kankuro had helped him pick out the perfect gift for Kagome. They made her whimper.
36. Whip (verb: used with object): to strike with quick, repeated strokes of something slender and flexible; lash.
It was almost Christmas again. Meaning just a few short months, and she'd be in this world for four years. Sitting down, Kagome watched as Naruto sparred with Zetsu, who was using vines like a whip. They had been kept in Konoha, but not as prisoners. But as a guest on an extended visa though, they were often watched by what Zetsu explained as Anbu, elite special ops ninja. Why they were called that when both of them could sense them was beyond her.
Of course, there was a price to pay for being allowed to 'stay' in the village. She had to record all her knowledge about demons and her abilities. Which she did note could be passed on by having children. But at the current time, being only 19, she was not interested in having children. This had led to an exciting conversation with the white part of Zetsu on how babies were made and born. While his black half insulted him, that was a conversation she didn't want to repeat ever again.
The loud crack of one of Zetsu's whips had her blinking and looking forward to seeing Naruto laughing as Zetsu looked at her. That was when she realized she was seeing them without her bangs hampering her eyesight. Tentatively she lifted her hand and touched her bangs. Only to find that they were about an inch higher than her eyebrows and puffing out from her head because she had curly hair when it was short.
With a glare and low growl, she stood up, making both guys before her go still, fear washing across their eyes. Giving a battle cry, she chased after them fist raised as they ran away screaming in fear — her Reiki a faint lilac halo around her as she raged at them for being insensitive asses.
37. Payday (noun): A candy bar containing a sweet nougat and coated in peanuts.
Humming in delight as she walked down the snow-covered streets of Konoha, Kagome rolled her eyes in pleasure. Someone had listened to her and created a decent replica of one of her favorite snacks from her world. Each bite she took of the delicious candy bar had her humming again as she continued one walking, oblivious to her surroundings. All that mattered was the delightful treat she had in her hand and was eating.
There was another one she had for Zetsu. Who was currently being put to use as a spy for Konoha in Iwa? A thing she had been against. Not wanting her friend to be captured and potentially killed as she had made it clear due to the nature of how he came to be, even if he looked similar to someone the Hokage and other older generation of Ninja knew, he really couldn't be killed. Being half plant, and tainted by the power of the Corrupted Moon Goddess Kaguya. Someone Kagome knew from her world, unfortunately. She was proving that no matter where one would go, Gods did overlap.
"Hey! Kagome!"
Missing a step as she was swallowing the last bite of her recreated 'payday' candy bar. Kagome coughed as a peanut got stuck in her throat. She was narrowing blue eyes on the culprit who more or less shrunk in on themselves. She waited until they spoke. Because she was no fool, Kiba came sniffing because he was interested in courting her.
38. Chocolate (noun): A candy made of or covered in the product of processed Cacao nut.
She stood with a few of the Kunoichis in the candy shop. It would be valentines day in two days. Meaning she'd been in this world for over four years. Or slightly fifty months to be exact. And as she half-listened to Sakura, Ino, and Hinata discuss which chocolates to give their significant other, Kagome wandered off to a different aisle. Not even sure if she wanted to give chocolates to anyone.
No one was special to her, but Zetsu, and she was sure you shouldn't give chocolate to a plant, even if they were half-human. It might end the same result if she gave chocolate to a dog. She was sighing as she looked at the shelves of stuff. Then realized there was something she could do.
39. Intoxicating (Adjective): Exhilarating; exciting
Valentine's day had ended oddly. And as she sat there at the Akimichi restaurant, she wasn't sure if she was supposed to laugh or cry. Because she had gotten a chocolate alternative to make a tasty treat for Zetsu, who had invited her out for dinner. Though, she hadn't expected everyone else to be there either. Go figure, little to no privacy to begin with, and now overly nosey ninja interfering on personal time. Yeah. Perfect.
"Oh.. gifts, another gift! Zetsu was good!"
"Shut it, you idiot. It's a day for gifts, and we are not special."
"Yes, we are! Because Kagome gave us a gift!"
"She gave others gifts too, stop being dumb."
"No, she didn't!"
The fight the two halves of Zetsu were having was just priceless as they both held up the small green box wrapped in black and white ribbon. While technically, she was under the scrutiny of the others. It was partially right. She had given Kurenai something for Valentine's day. But that was because the woman was sweet and a single mother.
"So, Kagome…"
Her eyes narrowed as she whipped her head around to look at both Naruto and Kiba. Seeing their aura's clearly. Glad that they zipped their lips. Because Zetsu being this happy and well behaved, was rare.
"Not another word, he's happy," she said, with a sickeningly sweet smile.
The nod that not just the two boys gave her, but everyone else had her relaxing.
40. ID (noun): The part of the psyche, residing in the unconscious, that is the source of instinctive impulses that seek satisfaction in accordance with the pleasure principle and are modified by the ego and the superego before they are given overexpression.
Rolling her eyes, pressing her hands over her ears, Kagome wanted just to fry everyone within a fucking ten-mile radius. It was March 14th, a whole month after Valentine's day. And to her utter horror, it was celebrated in this world as well. Knowing her face was red as she looked at the two boys and one man before her.
All three were bickering about who got to give her their present first. And whose was technically the best. She had enough of this posturing Bullshit when she traveled with Inuyasha, and Koga just popped up out of nowhere. Like she was a prize that could be won and owned. It had her grinding her teeth as she watched the argument devolve. Their egos were large — each more than capable, loud, obstinate.
Throwing her hands up in the air, stomping her foot, Kagome screamed and then turned and marched away. Leaving three confused males behind her. Wondering what had pissed her off as they wisely didn't follow her.
41. Potato (noun): Edible tuber of a cultivated plant.
She stabbed at the vegetable on her plate. Zetsu had cooked, something he'd had to learn to do while she was in captivity. Not that it was for an extended period of time, but still, he had to learn. Because he didn't want her to be mad at him by eating… dead and rotting things. Stomach pains were not worth the pain of her healing him, she guessed.
"Is it bad?"
"We did our best; eat woman!"
Lifting her head at being called woman, Kagome stabbed the roasted Potato and shoved the bite into her mouth and chewing it slowly and dramatically. Just to hear a small scream come from the inside of her mouth. Eyes were going wide as she immediately spate the now chewed tuber back onto her plate. Kagome felt thoroughly horrified.
Then laughter that erupted from just outside their small apartment window; Kagome narrowed her blue eyes on Naruto's as he gulped. Shoving her plate away from her, no longer hungry, even if she was, she wouldn't be eating potatoes any time soon. And smiled at the mischievous Ninja who was frozen under her gaze. Meaning the Kyuubi wasn't allowed to run away this time.
"Oh, Naruto… what do I owe the displeasure of this visit?" She asked as she heard Zetsu crack his knuckles as both whined about Kagome not eating their food.
42. Lesbian (noun): A female homosexual.
It was an honest, innocent question from Zetsu. But it had her so in shock that no words would form to be spoken. She had no clue as to why they would even ask that damn question. Then again he had been spending a lot of time not just with Naruto and Kiba, but Kakashi between their missions. So, yes, she had an idea of why they would ask her… that!
"Kagome? Are we in trouble?"
"It was just a question. What has you freaking out?"
They had gotten better at speaking more fluently. This was a plus, though their manners still differed significantly.
"Zetsu… why did you ask me that?" she asked, finally able to speak.
43. Inconceivable (adjective): Unbelievable; incredible.
Marching down the streets with Zetsu walking behind her, head hung low. Kagome was on the warpath. Her mission to give a piece of her mind to the asshat that had corrupted her friend. She found it unbelievable that they'd not think before speaking while Zetsu was around. It was well known how impressionable they were. Something that had come to be after they had died and been reborn. Basic knowledge had practically reset, so she had tried her best to cultivate a semi-gentleman out of the hybrid. While dealing with their knowledge and instincts from being a ninja.
Smiling darkly as the building came into sight where she could feel the aura of the person she wanted. The piper would be paid… and she was going to collect.
44. Sweat (verb: used without object): To gather moisture from surrounding air by condensation.
It pleased her much that a ninja who was extremely skilled and powerful, sitting in the head position of a village, was wiping their brow nervously as she stood there, hands planted on the desk between them, with her eyes boring into his eyes. She was enjoying their discomfort as she waited for their answer. Not caring that all the heads of each clan were present. Of course, she'd apologize for her interrupting later. But dammit angry woman on the warpath!
"I.. uh... Kagome now is not the time," Kakashi stuttered out.
"Oh, no… now is perfect, Hatake Kakashi! I want to know why you asked Zetsu if I was a lesbian? I mean, have I given any indication at all that I like women in that particular manner?" she demanded.
"No...no not at all," he replied fast.
"Then why!?" she hissed.
Soft, muffled laughter rang throughout the room.
"It was an innocent question. You don't show any inclination to the male populace, so you know… we got talking one day curious. The only romantic feelings you seem to display are towards Zetsu, who is a eunuch, genderless due to being half plant. And that is like that of a sister to a brother," he prattled.
This had all the laughter in the room, stopping as she leaned back, taking her hands from the desk. Her face a blank mask in place as she looked down at the 6th Hokage of Konoha.
"I am honored that my sexual life and preferences are the talk for the male populace of Konoha, Hokage-sama! But if it is all the same butt the fuck out. It is information that none of you idiots need to be privy to," she snapped. "And why I would rather be celibate then find a partner for comfort or relief. None of you are mature enough to ask me, let alone be discreet. Instead, you pull Zetsu in, and he asked something personal of me!"
With that said, she sniffed as she let her cold gaze slid across all present. She was seeing several other men sweating and looking very uncomfortable. Then, without saying anything more, she turned and left the room, Zetsu mumbling a soft apology before following behind her.
45. Mesozoic (adjective): noting or pertaining to an era occurring between 230 and 65 million years ago, characterized by the appearance of flowering plants and by the appearance and extinction of dinosaurs.
Kagome sat back on the small bench in the hothouse. She was amazed at all the things Tsunade and Sakura had growing in there. It made her think back to the picture books of what the world looked like when Dinosaurs roamed her words version earth. Zetsu, on the other hand, was running around asking many questions of the two Kunoichi. Both being very tolerant of him.
It had her smiling and relaxing. She was still pissed off at every male in Konoha older than 13 currently. And both the women had gotten word of what was transpiring in the Kage Tower before she even left. So, Sakura had been waiting for Kagome and Zetsu and bringing them immediately to the Hot House.
Closing her eyes, Kagome just let the smells and sounds filter in and out. Enjoying it for what it was. This was a sacred place that nobody, not even ninja, would dare tread. And it had a smile appearing on Kagome's face. Minutes turned into an hour before a distinctive smell was suddenly filling her senses, and Kagome jerked up. Eyes were open to see a familiar green leaf being held under her nose by Zetsu.
"Hey, look... Tsunade says this is Gingko and been around for thousands of years. It's old!"
"She stated it had many practical uses as well."
Chuckling, Kagome took the plant from Zetsu and patted the empty spot by her side. She twirled the small sprig back and forth.
"She is right. It has been around a long time. It has many purposes and uses in traditional homeopathic medicines. Its meaning in the flower language Zetsu is strength, hope, and peace," she elucidated to him.
She was watching his face light up at the knowledge she was imparting. While noting in her peripheral vision that both Sakura and Tsunade were now looking at her more intently, assessing even.
46. Intrinsic (adjective): Belonging to a thing by its nature.
It was late June. Kagome looked up at the blue sky, watching the clouds float on the winds in the upper stratosphere. It was a simple pleasure she as taking since her visit to the Hot House that had resulted in her being a teacher and part-time at the hospital — giving her less time to enjoy herself. But then again, being able to contribute was nice as well. Earning an income didn't make her feel like a mooch off Zetsu and the village.
"You came here last week as well. Troublesome."
Smiling as she opened her eyes and looked at Shikamaru. Shifting just a bit, giving him space to lay down on the hill as well.
"Now, don't say that. I need a place just to be lazy, you procrastinating, yet highly intelligent, bum," Kagome said back.
The smile he gave her around the cigarette as he sat down was all she needed. This place was his, she knew. It was saturated with his aura and life essence. And she could see why. It was not a place many would instantly think of to look for someone unless they knew them well.
"What brought you here today?" he asked.
"Hmmm, to think. You've heard all I had to say. My life has never been my own, so it is weird being in one place for so long," she replied.
There was a bit of silence for a while as they watched the clouds floating in the sky. Enjoying the quiet and each other's presence.
"I don't know how or why, but I believe you belong here. Already it seems as if you and Zetsu have always lived here. Been a part of Konoha," Shikamaru stated.
It was a bit shocking as he never said much, to begin with. This was a lot coming from him.
"Thanks. I feel the land and its life force. Even if people constantly surround me. The nature of this place is strong," she said, giving a soft sigh.
There was a snort of approval before both just went back to enjoying the quiet solitude of the place and each other's company.
47. Scratch Ticket (noun): a card or ticket having one or more sections coated with an opaque substance that can be scratched off to reveal a possible prize.
There was a raffle going on for prizes for their summer festival. And much to Kagome's dismay, the only way to get a ticket was to be either a part of a competition of skills or a prize, which she had complained about being rigged. But after looking over the competitions, she realized that for civilians, there was an archery contest. Smiling, she placed her name under the few that were there. Mostly all male.
Getting a Scratch Ticket, she rushed home and given it Zetsu, who just looked at the odd piece of stiff paper. When they stuck their tongue out to lick it, Kagome snatched it back from him — giving a reproving look about not putting things in their mouth when it was new. A long work in progress.
"This is not a food, nor is it a foe or friend, Zetsu," she explained. "It is a scratch ticket. Here, you take your nails and scratch like this to get rid of the shiny stuff. Then see what your prize is going to be. Don't put the shavings you scrape off in your mouth either, mister."
Silently glad that each ticket was a winner, though prizes did vary. Once she was sure that he would do as told, Kagome pranced into the kitchen to cook dinner. Just to jump halfway to the kitchen at the wail that Zetsu let out. The hand clutching her breast as she immediately pinned to the nearest counter, the Scratch Ticket was appearing before her.
"Look, we won… and it is a day as the Hokage!"
"We can run the village for a day. This is most amusing."
She swallowed and felt a cold chill crawl down her spine. Again she thought that the damn thing was rigged. And she just had to give 'her' ticket to Zetsu. Then again, she had preached often about Karma.
48. Obsequious (adjective): obedient; dutiful.
Oh, Kagome didn't hide the fact that she was enjoying the chaos that was currently the Hokage's office. She had given her ticket to Zetsu, and he won the right by scratching to be the leader for the day. Of course, he had gone out and entered into one of the contests and gotten a ticket and gave it to her. Her prize, she was more than happy with. It fit her perfectly — a specially commissioned weapon of her choice.
After winning the Archery Competition with little to no problems, she had a hefty purse of coin. Now, she also had a custom longbow being made. But after a lot of pleading, she was made to help Shikamaru as Aid to Zetsu, who was currently fighting with himself. While Kakashi was relaxing and reading a book she now knew was nothing but pure smut! The man was enjoying the chaos of his 'contribution' to the festival prizes. And it amazed her that no one had thought to double-check the man's prize.
But then again, man was uber sneaky. But right now, Zetsu was signing some paperwork that Shikamaru had before him. It helped that she had bribed both of them with a hand cooked dinner by her, with one of her homemade desserts. Her mother's recipe, of course. Such good boys they were being. Then again, Shikamaru didn't know that Temari was going to be here this evening as a visitor with one of her two younger brothers and would be staying with her and Zetsu.
49. Colloquial (adjective): characteristic of or appropriate to ordinary or familiar conversation rather than formal speech or writing; informal.
She was swinging her feet back and forth as she sat on the railing of the bridge that led to one of the many training grounds. Kagome read the rather blatantly worded scroll that had just been delivered via hawk, which startled her. It wasn't anything to fancy or important. But the fact she knew who it was from shocked her. Tears welled up in the corners of her eyes as she rolled it back up.
This changed everything. Four and a half years had come and gone. Kagome's birthday was in just under a week. Meaning she now had to have a conversation in a rather unobtrusive, roundabout manner with The Hokage, his aid, and Zetsu. She was genuinely torn on how she felt on this as she swung her legs over the railing and slid to land on her feet.
50. Articulate (adjective): using language easily and fluently; having facility with words
"You… are telling me that someone from your past just sent you this scroll. And that they intend to come to rescue you from here?" Kakashi stated.
If it weren't for the fact she could see the way his aura was jumping, she'd be impressed at how calm and uncaring he seemed. But she knew better, so she just shook her head.
"I won't let anyone take you, Kagome, and you belong to us! You were Zetsu's friend when no one would have cared."
"This is something we agree upon, Kagome. To us, you are an important person. Precious, and we will fight to keep you."
Their words had tears springing to her words. The way they spoke, making their points. Which she saw that Kakashi and Shikamaru seemed to agree with the way their auras reacted. It warmed her heart, but this person would not be denied. Then again, when it had been signed at the bottom, she knew that symbol. It could easily, more than likely end in a possible war — one where innocent people were expected to be killed.
"I appreciate it, you guys. But I think we should try to talk first, attack second," She said, sighing.
51. Trebuchet (noun): a medieval engine of war with a sling for hurling missiles
Head in hands and as a soft groan escaped her lips. Talking didn't work as said individual had not come alone. She didn't know how or even why they had found a way to come to this world after all this time. Just for her. How many times had she been called useless? Used as nothing more than a detector for the shards of a jewel, a jewel she carried with her now since it had been absorbed back into her body. She had been made a replacement for someone else and kidnapped because she was weak?
A loud cracking sound resounded on the air as a projectile sailed over the walls, which was immediately turned to nothing but sizzling green goo. Kagome snapped. Though anyone who looked at her would only see a serene, calm smile on her face as she glided through the crowd of people, those who knew her, especially those on the other side of the wall, would know just how pissed she was. There would be no rationalizing with her.
Slowly she climbed to the top of the wall, with help, and stood there looking down at the small group, five demons, two humans. Kagome knew her eyes were no longer blue, but glowing lilac with her Reiki. All sounds came to a halt as she lifted her hands for attention. No longer would she be seen as an object to be owned by people. An object to be owned.
"Woman! Get your scrawny ass down here!"
Turning her gaze to a figure clad in red, she smiled and spoke a singular word. There was so much emotion behind it as she watched with dark glee as a crater about twenty meters deep appeared around the person. Causing the few ninjas's near her to whistle appreciatively.
"Miko," a deep voice rumbled.
"Sesshomaru, Inu no Taisho, Lord of Western Japan. Why have you come for me? What purpose or use am I to you and those with you?" She asked.
Again silence filled the air. A nervous silence as if everyone was waiting for the wrong thing to say, sending them all hurling back into fighting once again.
52. Snarky (adjective): having a rudely critical tone or manner
It hadn't taken long after her questions for an answer to be given. Leading the small group of seven to have a meeting with the leaders and elders of Konoha, along with Kagome and Zetsu. Who was holding her rather protectively? She found comfort in his embrace. In four and a half years, she had found someone who just liked her for who she was. Not what she could what she represented. No, he just liked her for how she was. Someone who gave him a chance. Saw the potential that was in them.
"Return Kagome to us, Now!"
Lifting an eyebrow as she looked at someone she had called friend, gave her heart to and been hurt over and over again and again.
"Inuyasha, please keep quiet."
"Indeed, little brother. You started fighting with your simple-minded demands. Otherwise, we might end up fighting again," Sesshomaru stated in his normal bland tone.
This had Kagome looking at the tall, white-haired demon Lord and giving a small lift of her chin in thanks, waiting for when it felt safe to speak.
"Kagome, if you speak your peace, please," Kakashi said, giving her a side glance.
Nodding, she stepped forward so she could look and see everyone present. Her eyes were narrowed as she met each person's eyes. Noticing how some would look away, and in the case of one individual's case ears flat against their head.
"I will state this now. I am not an object to be owned. Never have been, and I never will be. And if people don't acknowledge that, then you all may go politely fuck yourself in a corner," she stated clearly. "Sesshomaru, I am a person. While beneath you, I do have a name and would like you to use it. If you want my respect, you need to respect me. Inuyasha, get the hell over yourself. Your attitude, selfish mannerisms, I am done with them. Kouga, I was never your damn woman. Frankly I that will never happen. You are not my type. Besides, you promised yourself to the pretty redhead next to you, honor that you mangy wolf!"
As she paused, she watched those she addressed. Seeing shame cross Kouga's face, Inuyasha glared as his ears pressed tighter against his head as he openly pouted while Sesshomaru tilted his head in acknowledgment as his golden eyes twinkled in amusement at how bold she was right now.
"As for you, Ayame, it is good to see you. And Shippo, my kit, come here. I have missed you greatly," she said, kneeling, allowing the small kitsune to run into her arms.
Once she was standing again, her arms wrapped protectively around Shippo, who immediately buried his face into the crook of her neck — feeling him rub on her to scent her as his territory as his instincts demanded, while a high pitched whine came from behind her — making him pause and look at who did it, Zetsu.
"Miroku, Sango, it is good to see you all alive, is Kirara with you?" she asked.
The two smiles before a soft mewl proceeded, Kirara poking her head out and jumping down from Sango's shoulder and running to her side. Where she jumped up to her other shoulder and nuzzling her, again scent marking her as a friend. Causing Zetsu to more whine more. Causing Kagome to laugh.
"Now, if you all think you can wear your big girl and boy undies, we can start this meeting of who the fuck owns me," she said, smiling widely and coldly. "Because I am curious as to why you even bothered to look for me. Wasn't I nothing more than a nuisance? A weakling? A tool? Got in the way all the time? Someone who had to be protected?"
Her word harsh, lashing out and filled with sarcastic snark as she threw it back at her friends. People she did owe her life to.
"And I want to know just why I am so damn crucial to Konoha as well? I mean, in the time I have been here, have I not been under constant surveillance? A prisoner on a loose leash? A potential tool because of the power I wield, that is not innate to this world? And the fact that Zetsu is loyal to me. A person who you all see as nothing but a tool and threat? Just like you did, Naruto?" she said as she turned and looked at those she called her friends in this village.
The sheepish looks she got let her know full well she was laying everything bare. And it felt good to make these people realize she wasn't some pushover. Glad that her time with Zetsu made her strong. Though, she was having fun being a snarky bitch.
THE END!