I can't tell y'all how much your kind words and comments about chapter 16 meant to me! Y'all are awesome. :-)

No quotes this chapter, so without further ado, chapter 17. Enjoy!

And so Wednesday and Thursday passed by swiftly.

Kagome and Rikuo texted frequently, talking about almost anything. He learned about her family, and she more about the Nura clan and some of the things in his past. Rikuo hadn't brought up the incident at Shibuya station that Natsumi had mentioned, though, and Kagome wasn't going to pry. She hardly had any right to pry into his past when she had yet to disclose hers. Rikuo had also encouraged her, once it was old enough, to consider adopting the little Siamese kitten he'd noticed she was partial to. Then, Thursday night on a whim, he'd called her, wanting to hear her voice, and she had been surprised by how happy she had felt hearing his.

Natsumi had also texted her regularly, seeing how she was doing, with lots of heart emojis, and sending quick self-care reminders that made Kagome smile, like "have you eaten?" or "Don't forget to hydrate!" Although still feeling rather guilty about lying to Natsumi, Kagome was grateful she had such a good friend, one who apparently understood the situation more than she'd given Natsumi credit for. She definitely owed her one. Or more than one.

In addition to getting the go-ahead from her professor and making substantial headway on her independent study, Kagome also committed herself to telling Rikuo the truth when he returned from Tōno. Her anxiety had not abated entirely, but his laid-back and easy-to-talk-to manner, combined with his respect for her boundaries—she was positive that he knew she was hiding something—was encouraging. Perhaps even if he didn't believe the story right away, he would still hear her out without dismissing it outright.

Ryūji, for his part, wound up being further baffled—and frustrated—by Kagome after going through all the materials he'd received. There were names and references he had never come across prior to this, and he had no clue how she would have been aware of them, unless they were in some Higurashi ancestral records. But a visit to the shrine proved only more vexing, since all his inquiries were stonewalled by a young man he presumed to be Kagome's brother. A miniscule piece of him, though, was sympathetic to the kid. He might not always show it in the best way, but he was overprotective of Yura too.

In terms of his and Rikuo's investigation, he wasn't in much better shape. Interviewing family members had given scant usable information, and so far nothing had really turned up online either. There was also the matter Haruka had mentioned, but, to the detriment of his patience, Ryūji had to wait until Sunday to hear about that. Assuming it would even be of any use at all.

In Tōno, Rikuo heard from Awashima about some rumors of a possible black market in Miyagi, one run by yokai, for yokai who had particular preferences not permissible to those in the Nura clan. Such as hunting humans, and ikigumo. The Tōno yokai had not turned up anything concrete though, so no one could verify if there was any truth to the rumors.

He and Itaku also sparred nearly constantly, but much to Itaku's dismay, in the wee hours of Friday morning, Rikuo won the tie-breaking match. They were both so exhausted that Zen took the opportunity to drag them inside to get some rest, griping about how he didn't have the energy to heal their stupid asses if they pushed it too far and grievously injured one another during their training. Then the ornery bird yokai succumbed a coughing fit, and Itaku and Rikuo ended up being the ones taking Zen into his guest room to rest.

Somehow, thanks to Reira perhaps, Rikuo managed to find his way to his own guest room, falling face first into bed, his final thoughts before passing out of Kagome and bringing her to Tōno with him.

Friday morning

"Kagome-chaaannnnn!"

As she exited her first class, the loud squeal echoed in the corridor, making her jump. She hadn't seen the person since the first semester of her college freshman year, but she knew that nasally voice all too well, having endured it all throughout high school.

She steeled herself and turned around to face Rika, who was accompanied by Eri. "Hi, Rika-chan, Eri-chan."

Rika had changed little, her ebony hair still well past her shoulders with sideswept bangs that mostly covered one eye. Eri, on the other hand, had grown her bangs out and dyed her hair a rich chestnut brown.

They both grabbed her and hugged her. "How are you? I'm so happy to see you," Eri said, clasping Kagome's hand and squeezing it enthusiastically.

"Fine. It's, um, good to see you two, too. You…changed your hair," Kagome said awkwardly, and tried to extract her hand from Eri's.

"Eh? Oh, yeah, I did it a couple months ago. Like it?" Eri released Kagome's hand to twirl her hair.

Before Kagome could answer, Rika chimed in, "Isn't it pretty? I think it suits her."

"Very pretty—"

Rika looked over Kagome's shoulder and smiled broadly, calling, "Yoohooo! Natsumi-chan!"

A moment later, Natsumi had joined them, and the three girls chatted animatedly while Kagome zoned out, nodding and saying "uh-huh" without really listening. Sure, she'd been friends with Eri throughout junior high and high school, but they'd drifted apart, and she'd never been especially close to Rika. They'd been in the same friend group in high school, but she and Kagome hadn't developed anything beyond a superficial relationship. Of course, back then, you were basically numb and pulled away from everyone… A habit you've maintained for quite some time now…

Kagome considered how that was changing, thanks in no small part to Rikuo and Natsumi, when something Eri said caught her attention.

"—girls' night! Since we moved to Kyoto, we haven't seen either of you in forever, and we totally need to catch up while we're in town!"

"Ooo, that's a fantastic idea! I heard about a new bar that opened up a couple weeks ago that supposedly has really good cocktails. What if we go there tomorrow night?" Rika asked.

Natsumi shrugged. "I'm game. You in, Kagome-chan?"

Three pairs of eyes stared her down. "Anou…" she began, racking her brain for an excuse, any excuse.

Rika squinted at her. "Don't tell me you're sick again. C'mon, you seem perfectly healthy to me. What's one night out?"

"Yeah, and we're only in town for a few days. Kagome-chan, please?" Eri whined.

Behind them, Natsumi gestured that she should smile and nod. It took everything Kagome had not to roll her eyes. Sighing in resignation—she did owe Natsumi after how kind she'd been—Kagome said, "Sure, I'll go." How bad can it be? At least Natsumi will be there.

Eri clapped her hands excitedly. "Yay! Meet you girls there around, say, ten?" Natsumi and Kagome nodded.

"Perfect. We've got to run, but we'll see you tomorrow!" Rika said, waving as she and Eri walked off.

Natsumi turned to Kagome, a small smile appearing. "I know they make you nuts, but they mean well." At Kagome's skeptical expression, she amended, "Okay, Eri means well. Rika… All right, Rika is mainly in it for the gossip and the booze. But come on, Rikuo-kun's still in Tōno, and it's not like we really need the guys to have fun anyway."

Kagome side-eyed Natsumi. "Oh? And what would Kurotabō-san think if he heard you say that?"

She snorted. "Kuro would get over it. Please? It won't be bad, you'll have fun—plus when was the last time you had a girls' night out?"

"Hmm…" Kagome bit her lip, thinking. "Maybe…two or three years ago?" Natsumi started laughing. "Hey, why is that funny?"

Looping her arm through Kagome's, Natsumi started walking toward Kagome's next class. "Years? What am I going to do with you, Kagome-chan?" she asked, shaking her head and still giggling.

Kagome couldn't help a grin. Good question. I don't even know what to do with me half the time, she thought wryly.

After her second class, Kagome planned to dash home and change for work at the cat sanctuary. But as she turned the corner in the direction of her apartment, seemingly out of nowhere, a hand suddenly gripped her arm.

"You can't avoid me forever, onna."

"Kyah!" Her heart leapt into her throat, and her reiki popped reflexively as she whirled on whoever the hell had a hold of her.

"You." First Rika and Eri, now Ryūji? What did I do to piss off the universe today? Kagome jerked her arm away. "It's rude to sneak up on people."

Ryūji frowned. "Did I really surprise you?"

"Of course you did! You just randomly popped up and grabbed me."

"You didn't sense me?" His gray eyes bored into hers.

Sheesh, he is such an ass. "No, I didn't. Not that I was trying. And yes, I already know you're going to tell me how pathetic I am, so don't bother."

"Tch. I was going to say wasted potential or poorly disciplined, but if you'd prefer pathetic…" He shrugged, smirking.

"Did you seriously come all the way to campus to insult me? You could have just called or texted and saved yourself a trip," Kagome said acidly as she walked away.

To her annoyance, Ryūji followed. "You never replied to my text."

"Imagine that."

He continued walking with her, and near the edge of campus, her curiosity—or perhaps pride—finally got the better of her. "Why wasted potential or poorly disciplined?" She glanced over to see his smirk widen.

"I can tell you…" Here it comes… "For a price."

"Wow, real original. Look, I already told you about my curse. Let it go."

He was quiet for a moment, and Kagome almost dared to hope he was going to drop the issue. Instead, he said, "The shikon miko."

Kagome nearly tripped over her own feet, coming to a halt. A cold sweat broke out over her skin, and her heart rate spiked. By some miracle, she was able to keep her voice steady. "What did you say?"

Ryūji cocked his head to the side, lifting an eyebrow, and gazed at her for a moment before he repeated, "The shikon miko—who is she to you?"

The vise gripping her chest tightened further, and Kagome licked her lips. Everything in her screamed to run, to get the hell away from the nosy onmyoji. However, that would likely only make him more suspicious, so she tamped down on her desire to flee and stood her ground. "Why? Does it matter?"

"Technically it doesn't, except I can't figure out how you know some of the names you do, like Kikyō and that inu-yokai, Sesshōmaru."

How does he know about that? Wait a minute… "Are you spying on me?" she demanded, fisting her hands on her hips.

"I'm a Keikain onmyoji. I have the right to know what part of our archives you've been poking around in."

"Wow. You lot really are something else." She flung her hands up and stalked off, not the least bit surprised when, again, Ryūji followed.

After a couple minutes, he spoke as if to himself, though she knew he was fishing for her to respond. "The only thing I can think of is that your shrine must have some secret historical records. So my guess is that if your shrine supposedly housed the sacred jewel at one point and supposedly was home to the shikon miko, then your ancestors must have believed Kikyō was the shikon miko."

Kagome's racing heart began to slow down. Whew. For a second there, I thought he'd figured it out…

Ryūji continued, "And if that's the case, then you must believe yourself descended from her. Is that it? You think you're a descendant of the shikon miko?"

A relieved laugh burst from her, and he grinned smugly. "I'm right, aren't I?"

No, but I'm oh so happy to let you think you are…

She paused at an intersection, waiting for the light to change. "Yup, you nailed it. Congrats. Now, will you please go away?"

Ryūji's eyebrows furrowed. "But that doesn't explain Sesshōmaru or the hōshi or taijiya…"

Shit. Trying to buy time, she deflected. "Nope. I answered your question—fair's fair, so you have to answer mine."

"You lack proper training. To begin with, you should have sensed me earlier," he said bluntly.

That's not true! "Wrong. I've had training. And what the hell do you mean by 'to begin with'?!"

Ryūji rolled his eyes. "You asked. I answered. Not my fault you don't like being told that your potential's being wasted."

As the light changed, she strode across the intersection, not bothering to see if Ryūji was with her. She wouldn't lose him so easily. Unfortunately. "Well, if you're so perfect, onmyoji-sama, why don't you train me?"

She'd said it as a joke, but when she glanced over at him, to her horror, he seemed to actively be considering it. Oh holy hell…

"Hmm…that could actually prove to be entertaining…" Ryūji wore an eerie smile that sent a chill skittering down her spine.

"Um…" A nervous giggle. "You know I was joking, right?" He's not serious, is he? If so, he must have some ulterior motive…

He made a noncommittal noise. Then, "So…the others? The hōshi and taijiya, et cetera?"

Kagome latched on to something he had said earlier, using it to craft what would hopefully be a believable explanation. "Not that it's any of your business, but since you've made it abundantly clear you're not going to let it go… You were right about my…um…ancestors and the shrine having old historical records. Since they, um, believed Kikyō was the shikon miko, they kept information about those who allegedly traveled with her and helped her destroy the sacred jewel. They claimed that among those were a hōshi and taijiya, as well as a couple yokai. So not only was it for my research for school, but I was also, um, looking to validate my family records."

Please let him buy into that… She mentally crossed her fingers and toes.

"Hmm…interesting that Keikain has never heard of this before."

"Well, newsflash, buddy. Contrary to the massive ego trip the entire Keikain organization seems to be on, you onmyoji aren't the be-all and end-all of folklore and yokai information."

They had reached her apartment complex by then, and to her surprise, rather than arguing with her further, Ryūji smiled. Well, sort of. Truthfully, it looked more like a sneer crossed with a grimace. "I'd be quite interested in seeing these ancestral records of yours."

Shit shit shit. "I'll have to ask my grandfather. But he probably won't want someone outside the family handling them." Yeah, right. If we did have something like that, jii-chan would share it with anyone who would listen…

"Oh? Can't say I understand why your family would be so damned secretive about something so harmless. And I'm still not convinced you've told me everything about this curse of yours…" He shrugged. "Text me once you've talked to him."

Nice going, Kagome. Way to dig yourself in deeper. "Um…sure. So…about that training? Why would you want to train me?" He's not the most pleasant person to be around, but he's clearly knowledgeable, so it might be helpful in the long run.

Ryūji's trademark smirk dropped back into place. "What, did you really think I would? Tch. I don't have time for that—I've got an investigation to conduct. Oh, speaking of which, tell that useless boyfriend of yours that whenever he decides to quit gallivanting around and actually do some damn work, I'd like the three of us to get together to discuss the case."

"He's not my—"

"Save it for someone who'll believe it, miko." With that, he walked off, leaving Kagome to grind her teeth in frustration and wonder if Ryūji even knew her name. Note to self—tell the pompous bastard that I have a fucking name the next time I see him…

Friday afternoon at work was slow, which Kagome appreciated after her two unsolicited encounters earlier in the day. While Kagome worked on some class reading behind the front desk, Momo was hanging delicate blown-glass light catchers in the reception area window. Apparently, an artist friend of hers had donated them to bring revenue to the cat sanctuary, and they figured so long as they were out of the reach of the cats, it wouldn't be an issue. Plus Momo and Miki agreed the cats would probably enjoy chasing the colorful patterns from the sun shining through the light catchers.

Suddenly, Kagome heard a crash, one that sounded suspiciously like shattering glass, followed by "oh shoot," and a hiss of pain. Looking up from her textbook, she saw Momo cradling her right hand in her left, tiny drips of blood trickling over her skin.

Without even a second thought, Kagome quickly leaped up and ran over. "Are you okay? Here, let me help!" Before Momo could respond, Kagome had her hand over Momo's, concentrating on her reiki to heal the cut.

Momo flinched. "Um…Kagome-san…not to be rude, but what are you doing?"

"Trying to heal it for you." For some reason, however, the wound wasn't healing. Why isn't it working?

The door from the back slammed shut, and Kagome heard footsteps approach, but she remained focused on what she was doing.

"Hey, miko sparkles, knock it off."

At same time Miki spoke, the realization hit Kagome, the faint pink glow in her hands winking out. Idiot, what were you thinking? You can't heal yokai… She turned to see Miki approaching, the slight shift in posture revealing Momo standing next to her, and immediately Miki's expression hardened.

"What the hell are you doing to my sister?" she asked, her eyes thinned into slits and filled with distrust.

"I was just—" she began, but Momo interrupted, stepping in front of Kagome.

"Miki!" Momo's voice was sharp and louder than her usual near-whisper. "Kagome-san was just trying to help me, right?"

"Uh-huh." Kagome felt a flush creep into her face, embarrassed by her impulsivity, not to mention utter failure.

Miki stiffened, crossing her arms across her chest. "Yeah, but, nee-san…"

Kagome was stunned when the diminutive Momo planted her hands on her hips. "No buts. You know as well as I do that she's perfectly trustworthy."

"Yeah, well, still doesn't mean I want her using those freaky priestess powers on my sister," Miki said peevishly.

Though it hurt some that Miki was distrustful of her, she couldn't completely blame her. Besides… "No, it's my fault," Kagome said, and both neko girls looked at her in surprise, Momo turning around to face her. "I reacted without even thinking. It was stupid, and I'm sorry"—she nodded to Momo—"and I apologize for worrying you," she said to Miki.

"There's nothing to apologize for," Momo said, her voice returning to its soft pitch. She did, however, elbow her sister, who let out an "oof!"

"Uh, yeah, what she said. And, uh, sorry for jumping down your throat like that…" Miki said, shoving her hands in her pockets and glancing down at the floor.

Kagome bit back a smile. Then, curiosity getting the best of her, she said, "So, I gotta ask…you knew I was a miko?"

Miki nodded. "Wasn't too sure about having you work here, but decided to let it slide…"

"Because someone vouched for you," Momo finished.

Rikuo? When? Maybe before he left for Tōno?

Miki snickered at her puzzled expression, her former ill mood seemingly gone. "Look, Rikuo-sama wouldn't allow you here in Ukiyoe Town if you were dangerous. But actually, Oitekebori was the one who told the Sanba Garasu you weren't a threat—said you easily coulda purified her if you wanted, but you didn't."

"Ehhhh? She did?" Kagome found herself slightly less annoyed by the pond specter now. "Wait, Sanba Gara-who?"

Momo started to explain when the chime of the bell on the front door interrupted her. They all looked over to see a short elderly man in a kimono walk in. He smiled broadly at the three women.

Before they could greet him, however, Momo let out a startled squeak.

"The glass! Oh poop, I need to get a band-aid and then clean this up!" She waved at the old man distractedly, saying, "Good afternoon, sōdaishō!" before hurrying to the back to bandage her cut and to get a broom and dustpan.

Sōdaishō? But I thought Rikuo was the Kanto yokai supreme commander? So then this is…?

Her face must have conveyed her confusion, for the old man chuckled. "Miki-chan, good to see you. And…" He paused, glancing at Kagome. He wore an easy smile, but when his golden gaze met hers, it was piercing. "Ah, so is this the young woman who has my adorable grandson so captivated?"

"Uh, sure?" Miki shrugged. "This is Higurashi Kagome, and Kagome—"

Kagome grinned, her assumption confirmed. "Nurarihyon-san. A pleasure to meet you finally."

Nurarihyon's smile grew into a broad smirk as he dipped his head toward her. "Hmm, I see my reputation precedes me. However, I'm at a disadvantage…my grandson had mentioned your beauty, but truly, words don't do you justice. You're even more lovely than I expected."

Her cheeks warmed slightly as she bowed politely in return. Damn, he's good. I think I see now where Rikuo gets it from. Though I have a hunch his grandfather may actually be more smooth than he is…

Still, she couldn't hold back a giggle. "Thank you, but I think you're both being too kind. So, what brings you here today?"

Nurarihyon gestured dismissively. "Well, I was on this side of town, and I haven't yet been here since the sanctuary opened, so why not?"

Uh-huh. That might be true, but I'm guessing curiosity over the miko dating his grandson was higher on the list of priorities. She gave herself a shake mentally. Quit making arrogant assumptions…not everything is about you!

"Shall I give you a tour?" she asked politely.

Momo, who was now back in the room tidying up the broken glass, offered, "I'll watch the front, Kagome-san. Please, go ahead."

"Tch. I'll be in the office. That budget isn't going to manage itself," Miki said dryly, stalking off toward the back.

Momo glared at her sister and hissed under her breath, "Stop being so rude!" but Nurarihyon merely laughed.

"That girl's been prickly since the day she was born. Don't know how you manage it, Momo-chan."

Momo shrugged and said softly, "You get used to it."

"Agreed," Kagome added. "I think inside that snarky exterior is a big marshmallow, truthfully."

Both Nurarihyon and Momo eyed her dubiously.

Or perhaps I'm way off base. Oops. Awkward. "Right, well, maybe not. Anyway, let me show you around!"

As she opened the door to the cat room, leaning down to shoo a couple kitties out of the way, Kagome suppressed the ecstatic squeal of pure glee. Being around yokai again? Awesome. Finding out Rikuo was a yokai? Even better. Meeting Nurarihyon, the founder of the Nura clan and original sōdaishō and hyakki yakō leader? Complete and total folklorist AND fangirl jackpot.

Of course the downside is now I have to pretend to be normal around him…

Tōno, Friday afternoon

Zen had elected to stay in Tōno another day or two, which worked out better for Rikuo anyway. It meant, after getting a couple hours' sleep, that Friday afternoon he was able to swing by the eastern ōkami clan without worrying about Zen. He half hoped the wolves knew something so he'd have information to rub in Ryūji's face when he returned.

He was just on the outskirts of Tōno village when a voice stopped him.

"Hey." It was Itaku, leaning against a tree about a foot away. "Name your favor."

"Not yet." Rikuo grinned. "I'll let you know."

Itaku shrugged indifferently, and Rikuo assumed that was that. But as he started to tell the kamaitachi good-bye and continue on his way, Itaku spoke.

"Good to see you've got your head on straight again."

"Huh?"

Itaku exhaled loudly and pinned him with a very teacherly look that conveyed how dim-witted he thought Rikuo was being. "Your new woman—Zen mentioned her. A miko? You got some kind of death wish, idiot?" He smirked when Rikuo glared at him. "Look, whatever the reason, instead of being distracted, you were extremely focused and driven, had that old spark back. So maybe she's not so bad for you after all."

Rikuo rubbed the back of his neck, laughing a little. "Uh, thanks? I mean, the bet didn't hurt, either."

"Tch. Don't get complacent, though—next time you'll be the one owing me." Itaku cracked a quick smile before his expression went back to impassive. "Anyway, I'll contact you if I hear any more rumors or if we find something concrete."

He knew a dismissal when he heard one. "Thanks, Itaku. Take care of Zen, will ya?"

Itaku gave him a strange look before nodding and disappearing back into the forest.

Rikuo smiled to himself. Oh, Itaku. You're not fooling anyone—I know deep down you actually care.

Using his yokai form, it didn't take Rikuo long to arrive at the wolf clan compound in Fukushima.

He found Kōji waiting outside a large, centrally located house, its garage door open to the rapidly fading afternoon sun, an assortment of motorcycles in varying stages of repair—or disrepair—littering the driveway and interior of the garage.

Kōji greeted him excitedly, pulling him into a quick hug and slapping him enthusiastically on the back. "Glad you swung by!"

A head popped out from around the corner. "Yo, Sandaime! Good to see ya." The man bore a striking resemblance to Kōji, and had it not been for the faint fine lines around his eyes and lightest dusting of silver at his temples, he would have thought they were brothers, not grandfather and grandson.

"Likewise." He tipped his head toward him, and Kōga vanished back into the garage. Rikuo glanced around and looked questioningly at Kōji. "I knew your grandfather restored antique cars, but motorcycles?"

"Ah, that's just a hobby. He's got a thing about going fast." Kōji laughed. "So what brings you here?"

"Wanted to see how things were with the rat problem you mentioned a few weeks back."

Kōji leaned against the wall of the garage, crossing one leg in front of the other. "Not much to tell about the rats. Had a few minor incidents, but only here and there and at random. On the whole, it's been radio silence. Kinda weird."

Rikuo nodded. "Could be good or bad, but we'll hope for the best. Also, you know anything about a black market in Miyagi? Tōno yokai heard a rumor about some supposed black market for yokai who like to eat humans, or ones interested in ikigimo…"

A voice called from the garage, "We don't eat humans anymore! Haven't in a long damn time!"

Kōji rolled his eyes and yelled back, "He ain't accusing us, jiji. He's askin' if we know anything!"

Hooking a thumb toward the garage, Rikuo asked, "What's that about?"

"Apparently during the Sengoku period, the old man met the shikon miko a couple times, and somehow because of that, the clan swore off eating humans." Kōji snorted. "Probably had a thing for her or somethin' and was trying to impress her."

At this, Kōga poked his head back out, his blue eyes lit with interest. "What about the shikon no tama? You know, I had a couple shards myself for a while. Didn't get corrupted by 'em like some lesser yokai, either."

Shards? That legend is actually true? Rikuo knew the general gist of it, but he didn't find it surprising that the story wasn't completely made up. Hell, my own life has been the stuff of fiction… I know Kagome was researching it… Wonder if she knows at least some of the lore is evidently true?

Kōji, though, seemed less intrigued, the young wolf groaning loudly. "No one wants to hear your stories of the 'good old days,' jiji. Quit interrupting—Rikuo-sama and I have business to discuss, damnit!"

While it was true he did have business to discuss with Kōji, Rikuo wasn't sure the other part of Kōji's statement was entirely accurate. He stifled a grin. He could think of one person in particular who might be interested in Kōga's stories.

Kōji cut his train of thought short, nudging Rikuo. "Right?"

"Hmm? Oh, yeah, sorry. I wondered if you'd heard any rumors. Tōno yokai said one of the ones they'd heard mentioned the kitsune in Miyagi could be involved, but they haven't found anything to substantiate that or the black market even existing. Didn't know if you knew much about the fox skulks." Since they weren't part of the Nura clan, Rikuo's own knowledge was somewhat limited.

Before Kōji could answer, he heard Kōga growl, "They're a godsdamned nuisance is what they are. Cocky sons of bitches, with their fancy illusions…"

Rikuo cocked his head in confusion, concerned. He wasn't aware of any on-going conflict between the ōkami tribe and the Miyagi kitsune, but if there was an issue, he needed to be informed.

"Want something to drink?" Kōji motioned for Rikuo to follow him, heading toward the house and away from the garage—and presumably to where Kōga couldn't hear them.

Inside, Kōji explained. "Some young foxes practicing for the kitsune yōjutsu exam tricked him a little while back, and he's still salty about it." Kōji snickered. "Though, I guess if a bunch of scantily clad pretty girls suggested I go to a nearby inn with them, I wouldn't say no either." Kōji gave him a crooked grin.

Of course not. Like grandfather, like grandson.

"Anyway, to answer your earlier question, honestly, no, I haven't heard anything, but those kitsune kinda keep to themselves, not an overly social bunch, minus the trickery, ya know." Then his grin grew roguish. "Although…I have heard the leader of one of the kitsune skulks is extremely attractive, if you like redheads."

Trust Kōji to know the rumors about the women. "Well, if you do hear anything about a yokai black market, particularly involving ikigimo, I'd appreciate it if you let me know."

Kōji nodded. "So…how's Tsurara-nee-san? And that cute little neko girl? Think she'd have any interest in a wolf?"

Rikuo groaned inwardly, but he couldn't contain a hint of a smile. "Kōji, I have absolutely no clue what kind of guy Momo is interested in."

"Can't hurt to try!" Kōji eyed Rikuo slyly. "How 'bout you, Rikuo-sama? You got yourself a woman yet?"

Rikuo gave a nonchalant shrug. "Maybe…" he said cryptically.

Before Kōji could press him for details, a door banged open, and Kōga and several other wolf yokai bounded into the kitchen, all happy to see Rikuo.

"Rikuo-sama!"

"Sandaime! Long time no see!"

"Heyyyy, Rikuo-sama… That pretty yuki onna still single?"

"You gonna stay for dinner? C'mon, please? Ginta's got a new recipe he's been wanting to try out!"

"Oh, yeah, stay the night! We'll even get out the good sake, and I can tell you about the Sengoku era…"

Various moans and grumbles sounded after Kōga's comment, and Rikuo resisted the urge to laugh. Before the wolves had joined the Nura clan, he had always heard they were a distrustful, aloof bunch, but he'd never seen any evidence of it. They were goofy, no doubt, but they were also warm and clearly loved their pack. And they seemed to enjoy food, drink, and revelry as much as the rest of the Nuragumi.

Absently, he wondered if they would let him bring Kagome by when he took her to Tōno. He'd have to ask them at some point later. To quote Kōji, can't hurt to try.

Late Friday night, after many drinks and a fantastic meal—the wolves were better cooks that he had anticipated—when the opportunity arose, Rikuo slipped away, unseen, into the woods surrounding their compound. Finding a spot in one of the trees that afforded him a good view, he reclined against the tree trunk and pulled out his cell phone and his pipe.

I hope it's not too late. It was only a quarter to twelve, and from what he had gathered, Kagome was a bit of a night owl, but he hated to call and wake her up if she'd gone to bed early.

As if summoned by his thoughts of her, his phone buzzed.

Kagome: Met your grandfather today ^_^

He exhaled, watching the smoke swirl, and then ran a hand over his face. Jiji… I need another drink…

Rikuo: you busy? Can I call you?

She replied with "sure!" and then answered quickly once he'd dialed. "Hey, what's up?"

Contentment rolled over him at the sound of her voice. "Not much, just wanted to know what I need to apologize for."

There was a short pause, and then she asked, "Apologize? For what?"

"My grandfather."

Kagome's soft laughter trickled across the phone line. "No need to apologize for anything! He was quite charming. Said he came by to see the cat sanctuary since he hadn't been there yet."

Rikuo made a rude noise in the back of his throat. He didn't buy that for a second. "You mean, more like he's a nosy old man curious about the miko working there and dating his grandson."

"Well…" Her hesitation told him all that he needed to know, but she confirmed it when she added, "He might have mentioned something about that."

He groaned. Yep. Sign me up for grand-patricide or whatever you'd call it. I'm going to kill him when I get home.

"I didn't mind, you know."

"Oh?"

He could hear Kagome hum, as if she were thinking. "Like I said, he was charming, if perhaps a little too smooth"—Rikuo clamped his teeth down on the end of his pipe, but he refrained from commenting—"but all that aside, I got to meet Nurarihyon," she finished, excitement creeping into her voice.

Ohhhh. Of course. He couldn't prevent a smile from spreading across his face. "Oi, oi, blue eyes. You've already met a Nurarihyon…"

"You hush. That's not what I meant, and you know it. This was the first Nurarihyon sōdaishō." Then, as an afterthought, she said, "Plus he's your family. You've met my grandfather."

The fact that she wanted to meet his family made him happier than it probably should have. "Fair enough. Other than meeting the meddlesome old man, how was your day?"

Kagome sighed loudly. "Fine, I guess. Saw your BFF."

Does she mean Ryūji? We get along all right, but best friend isn't a title I'd bestow upon him. "Hmm… You've never met Shōei, and Zen's still in Tōno… Oh, did you meet Tsurara?" he asked innocently.

"Funny. You know damned well who I'm referring to. That asshole onmyoji of yours."

"He is not mine."

His curt retort earned him a slew of giggles from Kagome. "Anyway… Ryūji said to tell you—and I quote—'whenever he decides to quit gallivanting around and actually do some damn work, I'd like the three of us to get together to discuss the case.' And he also called you useless."

"Gallivanting…" Rikuo huffed. "Useless, huh? I'll give him useless…"

More soft laughter, on the heels of which came a poorly muffled yawn. "Sorry."

"You've got work in the morning, don't you?"

"Mmhmm. My boss is a real stickler for punctuality too."

"Ehhhh? I am not!"

"Not you, silly." He could almost see her smile, lighting up those vibrant blue eyes. "Miki."

"Oh, right, of course. Well, then, in that case, I should let you get some sleep."

Another yawn, this time less quiet. "Guess so. Thanks for calling. And really, don't worry about your grandfather."

"If you say so. G'nite, blue eyes."

"Night, Rikuo."

He tucked his phone back inside his kimono and then folded one arm behind his head, gazing through the branches to the bright stars above him. He had barely begun to relax, though, when bellows of "Rikuo-sama!" and "Sandaime!" reached his ears.

Should've known they'd notice sooner rather than later…

He dropped down out of the tree just in time for Kōji to dash up, the too-wide grin of one who has had a bit too much to drink plastered across his face.

"Where'd you sneak off to, Rikuo-sama?" He angled his head, regarding Rikuo and the pipe he held. "To smoke?" Then his expression grew sly. "Or…was it somethin' to do with a woman maybe?"

Rikuo's eyes widened. Shit, he's more perceptive than I gave him credit for. "Ah… I…"

"'S'what I thought." Kōji laughed and clapped a hand on Rikuo's shoulder. "C'mon, Sandaime. Have a few more drinks with us, and let's hear about this woman a'yours."

Before he could even attempt to object, Kōji hollered to some pack mates a few feet away, "Yo! Rikuo-sama's got a girl, gonna tell us about her so us miserable single bastards can live vicariously through him!"

Rikuo found himself somewhat impressed that Kōji, as inebriated as he was, managed to use the word 'vicariously' both correctly and without slurring too much.

Whoops and cat-calls echoed through the trees, and Rikuo pinched the bridge of his nose as they made their way back toward the wolves' compound.

I'm going to need a lot more to drink…

Author's Note:

1. But soft! what angry mob through yonder window breaks?
Okay, butchered Shakespeare aside, yes, I know, Kagome and Rikuo didn't have any face-to-face time together in this chapter and she hasn't told him about her past yet. Put down the pitchforks, will ya? To borrow (but not butcher) from the good Bard again, this time Hamlet, "Though this be madness, yet there is method in't."
This and the next chapter were originally supposed to be one single chapter, but it was quickly getting out of hand, so I separated them for sanity's sake. I will post the next asap. Promise.

2. In the meantime, if you're so inclined, feel free to check out (if you haven't already) the Embracing Fear Odds and Ends, which will be a collection of short scenes and/or one-shots from the Embracing Fear universe that don't fit neatly within the main storyline or that I've written just for fun. (shameless self-promotion? who me?)

3. Regarding Rika: just to be clear to those who are members of one fandom or another, but not both, she's an OC. Y'all know those people who have a burning need for drama in their lives or never quite matured past high school? Yeah, that kind. *shudder* Her name was inspired by the fact that, at least in otome games, nothing good can come of a girl named Rika. ;-)

4. (sorry for being so long-winded) A question for y'all - are the POV changes clear enough? Or would you like me to mark them with a heading like I've done with the day here in this chapter? Personally I sometimes find that distracting, but it's also my writing so I know where the POV shifts are LOL. Just curious :-)