Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or its characters; that right belongs to Rumiko Takahashi. Nor do I own Final Fantasy (any of the titles), that right belongs to the game developers, Artist, storyboard writers and Sony/Square soft!
Author's Notes: I am stating this now, here is who Kagome will not be paired with. President Shinra, Hojo, Heidgarr, Veld, Vincent Valentine, Palmer, Reeves, or Sesshomaru (I meach Fucking really, he is in another world!). As of right now those are the only ones I am able to list. And still have no idea of the end pairing. So if you do not like that, I politely ask you to turn around and leave now. Because I don't see the point in you wasting your time and mine.
Month 2, Week 1, Day 2: Another day
Kagome sat back in her chair. Arms above her head in a stretch. A stretch that had her muscles popping in protest. But it felt so amazing, as a soft sigh escaped her lips while she glared at the stacks of folders that, after almost two weeks, still didn't seem to be shrinking.
Blowing a raspberry, she reached out, grabbing the next one, opening it so she could input the data. This was a monotonous task, and someone had to do it. And golly gee whiz, that someone was here. Not that she had room to grouse. With the agreement, she was getting free room and board and a nice paycheck. Not that she had time to spend the darn thing.
Lost in her work and musings, Kagome practically jumped out of her skin when she felt herself being touched. With a shriek that'd do a banshee proud, she spun her chair around to face the perpetrator. Only to see a scowling Hojo wiggling his fingers in his ears, making her feel a bit sheepish as she glared at him in silent admonishment.
"Do not look at me like that. You did not answer me when I called your name. So, I figured a touch would get your attention, Kagome."
Blinking now wide eyes as she muttered softly, "What did you need Kenya?"
The slightly raised eyebrow as he responded, spoke volumes. "I was wondering why you were still here. It is five-thirty."
Feeling confused, Kagome whipped her head around to look at the clock. Sure enough, it was after five o'clock. In fact, it was almost five-forty-five. Slowly turning to look back at one Kenya Hojo, giving a lopsided grin at the slight exasperation showing on his usually blank face.
"I guess I should get going then? You want anything in particular for dinner?"
"No. My work is going to keep me up till late. And I promise to grab a bite from the cafeteria. Go home and relax."
Sucking her bottom lip in and chewing on it, Kagome felt a small pang in her chest. Unable to identify it, she turned back to the computer. She was quickly saving her work before shutting it down. Picking up the small handbag at her feet and the jacket off the back of her chair as she stood.
"Okay. Promise if anything happens, you call?"
It was a question, not a request. When Hojo gave a quick nod of his head before turning and shuffling back to his workspace. Giving a soft sigh, Kagome left. Figuring a small sandwich would be okay for dinner. Kagome decided to continue to go through and organize Hojo's files in his home office until bedtime.
The sound of someone pounding on the front door drew Kagome from the file she had been reading. Glancing up at the clock as she gave an indelicate snort to clear the dust from her nose. She was wondering who would be visiting at eight o'clock without a call — rising from the floor as the pounding continued, sounding more insistent — making her way downstairs, stopping at the door to go on her tiptoes, cursing herself for being five foot two inches — peeking through the peephole seeing Reno's familiar head of red hair.
With a soft groan, Kagome dropped back down, unbolted the door. She was throwing it wide open as she glared at him. Hands were sitting on her hips.
"Well, you better ha..."
Not getting a chance even to finish her sentence when Reno's arms shot out, grabbing her shoulders. Giving her a good look at his face.
Just as he spoke, his voice sounded just as frantic as his face looked. "Hojo! Lab! Quick! Needs you now, Kagome."
Feeling panic washing through her as she stepped back from Reno, hugging herself as she spoke, "Wha... What happened? Is he okay? I knew I should have stayed. Or at least forced him to come home with me. Dammit."
The burn of tears in her eyes as she started to break emotionally. Only to have Reno speak to her again.
"We gotta go. But, uh, first, you might want to put something else on. I do not want Hojo to kill me for taking you from the house... like that."
She was blinking the forming tears from her eyes. Kagome was about to protest when she recalled what she was wearing. Daisy Duke Pajama shorts and tiny matching camisole top with no bra. The sudden rush of heat to her ears as she gave him a quick nod. Turning and running to her room in a new record.
Pulling on a pair of faded jeans, she had initially thought to put on and a large sweater that had been Hojo's. Kagome was back downstairs in under three minutes. She was sliding her shoes on as she grasped her handbag from the table by the door. While the other shoved Reno out the door. Noting he wasn't directly making eye contact, and his face matched his hair. If this were a different situation, she would be laughing right about now.
As she got onto the back of his 150 CC sports bike, Kagome began her barrage of questions. Only to see his face in the side mirror look grim. Making the pit of her stomach drop as they drove all of the fifteen minutes in silence. She was leaving her mind to create one horrible scenario after another — each progressively getting worse.
As Reno slowed to a stop in front of the Shinra building, Kagome jumped off before he even had the engine turned off. Running up the stairs to the entrance. Barely hearing Reno curse as he followed her. She had to stop and wait for the elevator, allowing Reno to catch up to her and looking very angry.
"Calm down, Kagome. Rushing will do you no good."
Not looking at the man as the elevator dinged, doors sliding open. She darted in scanning her id card as Reno entered and pressed the button for the 67th floor.
"I know.. But... Hojo.. he.." She muttered while trying not to sob as the ride up took five minutes.
"Everything will be okay, I promise."
Those were the words she heard as the door to the elevator opened. She was squeezing through them before they opened all the way. Making Reno grunt as she was off, running full tilt for the lab. She was calling for Hojo as she went. Eyes were darting everywhere to see what had gone wrong.
As she came to a sliding halt in the doorway to the smaller testing lab. Kagome felt her jaw drop open as her eyes tried to jump out of her head at what she was seeing just as a loud cheer went up from those in the room and one voice behind her.
There were no words to aptly describe the sheer amount of emotions flooding her slightly paralyzed body and listening as everyone present burst into song, singing happy birthday to her. Today was supposed to be just another day for her. This was completely unexpected. After a few minutes, Kagome finally lets a smile graced her lips as she spun to face Reno. She was making the redhead backup just as her fist connected full force with his shoulder.
"Hey! I was just following orders from the princess."
Shaking her head as she faced everyone else once again. She was noting the various levels of amusement on their faces. While Kagome wondered how they knew it was her birthday. Having told no one.
"You put it on the registration paperwork I had you fill out" came the slightly mocking tone of Hojo in her head.
With another small shake of her head, Kagome joined everyone else. She was even giving Reno a quick hug in forgiveness. She began to explain why she had sucker-punched him — earning laughs from Vincent, Tseng, and Rude. Hojo just seemed to exude more smugness than usual.
Just to have Tseng whisper in her ear, that was why he chose Reno for the task of getting her.
Month 2, Week 1, Day 7: Company Ladies
Giving a small groan, Kagome rolled to her stomach, pushing herself onto her knees and mentally berating herself for pushing past her limit and doing an extra nine crunches. But she knew she still had to strengthen herself physically. Because she was sure at some point, it always happened, her Reiki or magic as Hojo loved calling it, would fail her.
Besides, she didn't have Inuyasha and the rest to save her anymore. Now it was more of a do or die; her Reiki be damned while she could handle herself in the physical combat with hand to hand and basic weaponry. Kagome lacked stamina. So, with the means available to her, this was the best she could do to build it even if she was finding it tedious.
With a loud huff, she stood up in a single smooth motion. Feeling her muscles scream. Slowly she went through some simple cool-down stretches. Hoping to help flush a bit of the lactic acid produced by said muscles from hips and abs. Of course, she knew she'd still be sore later. With a soft sigh, Kagome shuffled over to the treadmills. Figuring a light job for cardio would be an excellent way to end this self-inflicted torture.
As she neared the machines, Kagome saw ahead of familiar blond hair. Smiling at the thought of an uninterrupted girl talking with the vivacious weapons development head, Scarlet, Kagome hopped onto the treadmill next to her and set it to a low pace hill climb. Before popping her on earbud into an ear and tapping the play button for her workout playlist. Then flashing a smile, Kagome jumped onto the treadmill, ready to have a good time. Something she knew she could do with scarlet.
"So, how have things been?" Kagome asked, keeping her gaze out over the city's top plate.
When a few minutes had gone by, and no answer was given. Kagome felt a bit awkward but figured Scarlet had not heard her.
"Okay, silence usually means not good. If you need a girl's night, I am all for it. Seriously, this company needs more ladies in it."
Again silence met her words. Pursing her lips, Kagome glowered out over the city, wondering what was going on with Scarlet. The woman was always talkative, loud to the point of being obnoxious. So her staying quiet was... disturbing.
"Look, you're my friend. And I frankly find you being closed mouth rather disturbing and troubling. If you don't spill, then I will have to take drastic measures."
She was smirking to herself at her veiled threat. Peeking over, Kagome saw Scarlet slow and stopped just as a familiar high-pitched laugh came from behind her. Blinking eyes that now felt very wide. Kagome looked over at who she thought was Scarlet. Icy blue eyes in an oval face, framed with pale blond hair, looked at her with a mix of amusement and skepticism. As the laughter behind her got louder.
Swallowing visibly as Kagome realized this face while similar was harder and colder. Not wanting to look away, in the off chance, for fear of being attacked. Kagome tapped the treadmills stop button.
"Oh, Kagome, you are too cute. I'd like you to meet my older sister, Lydia Shinra. Vice-president of the company and wife of Reginald. And the founder of the Turks."
A strangled sound came from her throat at Scarlet's introduction as she felt her face drain of blood while heating up simultaneously. Then began to mentally damn herself as she was unable to stop the words leaving her mouth.
"I do not like your husband. He gives me the feeling I am coated in rancid oil."
Pursing her lips, blue eyes meeting blue. Kagome waited as silence fell around them at her bold and rather blunt statement. Even though she belonged to Hojo, she knew she was not untouchable. And Kagome could tell that this woman, Lydia, was a predator, which made sense if she founded the Turks.
As the silence continued, a soft chuckle started and grew in volume. Making Kagome blink her eyes as she looked from Lydia to Scarlett, who was watching as her sister laughed. Unsure of what to do as the blond before she tried to get herself under control. A few tears streaking down her face.
"You were right, Scarlet. I like her. Not many people have the guts to be that blunt, for fear of my wrath."
Feeling her jaw drop fast and hard enough, it should have come unhinged. Kagome stared stunned at the woman, wondering if she passed some kind of test. And what that test could have been.
Month 2, Week 2, Day 3: No, means No!
Blue and Black clashed in a battle of wills. Neither wanting to back down and leaving the very few others in the room uncomfortable and on edge, having already adjusted to the odd and sometimes comedic interactions. But this, to those present, was sheer hostility.
"Give me one damn good reason."
"Because I refuse to allow any of them even to get a finger hold on you."
A low animalistic growl came from the petite raven-haired girl as both blue and black eyes narrowed at the same time into slits. They are causing a few of the labs attending scientists to flinch, wondering how she could produce such a sound when she was usually a sweet-tempered person.
"I know that already. There has to be another reason. Give it to me."
Silence met those words as the air grew electrified. The only way to describe the feeling as those watching felt the fine hairs on their arms and neck stand up. Unable to tear their eyes away from the stalemate going on, while it turned into a train wreck.
Finally, the silence was broken. "You, Kagome, are not allowed unless you can clone yourself, give it all your abilities and memories while keeping it stable. Something neither I nor my predecessor, Dr. Ghast, have been able to do."
The sharp intake of breath heard as a brief look of defeat danced in vivid blue eyes. Only to have a cold and calculating smile appear on the soft, gentle face.
"Really?! If I can do as you said, I can insert myself into the S.O.L.D.I.E.R. program."
Several eyes went wide at the dark and deep booming laughter that erupted from the usually dour scientist. It was downright scary to hear it, and more so to see it. Causing them all to worry when all the raven-haired girl did was cross her arms over her chest, unimpressed and raising an eyebrow.
"That was funny, Kagome. But no, means no. You are my valuable, one of a kind specimen. And I refuse, even if you are somehow successful, the clone will go. Failing as nothing more than a pale comparison to the real thing."
All present felt the shift the moment the man finished speaking. Seeing the man himself realizing his mistake as he took a step or two back from the raven-haired girl. He was raising his hands as if in defense. All the while, like the rest of them, watching her with trepidation. Her head lowered, chin resting on her chest. Hair now obscuring her face from view, arms now at her side. Hands clenched into a fist.
"Now, the truth comes out."
The way the words were spoken. Almost as if she was broken. Before she suddenly spun, dashing from the lab. Giving a brief view of an angry flushed face and glistening blue eyes full of unshed tears and ignoring the call of her name.
Month 2, Week 2, Day 6: Shocking, I know!
As Kagome entered the spacious room, letting her blue eyes sweep over all present. She was not lingering on any one head of a department for more than a few seconds, wondering again why she had to be there. Even Hojo, whom she was barely speaking to still, didn't know. Both were agreeing it was to put her on display.
"Keep calm, quiet, and stand behind me. I tend to leave early, as in right after I give my own... Dammit, my wife is here."
At Hojo's mentally spoken words, Kagome pressed her lips into a thin line. She didn't like this situation and disliked the woman even more. And to make matters worse, she was seated next to Hojo. The urge to scream bubbling up.
"Kagome?" Came a softly spoken mental inquiry.
Putting a soft and sunny smile, Kagome batted her eyes at Hojo as if missing something. She was earning a derisive snort as he continued to his seat. Sitting with a polite hello to Lucretia. Kagome followed, coming to a standstill behind him as he had directed.
As the meeting was called to order, Kagome let her mind drift. Thinking back to the last time she had gone out with Reno and Rude. How all three had felt their little group being watched. They were rankling all three of them. Add in the fact that they didn't want their stalker to know they were aware of their presence. Each of them took turns playing, as Kagome called it to find Waldo, which turned out to be a Thing 1 and Thing 2.
Eventually, their stalker's messed up. Showing themselves, Reno instantly took secret pictures and ran them for cross-reference. Find out they were elite S.O.L.D.I.E.R.S, who often pulled guard duty for the Shinra President. Then with little trouble, hacked into said man's private server and files. They were quickly uncovering a not so well hidden file that contained tons of pictures of herself. And written documents of some of her daily routines.
Suddenly feeling sick to her stomach, Kagome did not feel like continuing the outing. Rude, having seen her wilt as Reno continued to read the document aloud softly, came up with the idea of tagging their unwanted babysitters. It was a genius idea, lifting her spirits and getting both of the Turks to laugh as a dark smile of glee curved all their lips.
The game was fun. Well, at least for the trio. As for the two guards, not so much. Hell, even she had tagged them with her Reiki. Blending it into the energy, they gave off.
So as she looked to the two behind Reginald Shinra, she'd have to hug Reno.
"Kagome, are you okay?"
She was starting at the words and suddenly felt a hand on her wrist. Kagome came back from where she'd gone — looking down at Hojo, who had his cold mask on. Though she saw the genuine worry in his black eyes, she was nodding her head in answer.
"Good, you were asked a question...by the president."
Putting on what she hoped was a curious face as she looked at the man. Forcing her smile to stay on her face.
"Yes?"
"I asked if you were adjusting to Midgar. Enjoying yourself in this city."
Letting her face morph into surprise, Kagome nodded her head again in response, before speaking up.
"Uh, but how does that pertain to anything in this meeting, Sir?"
She is not bothering to hide her irritation and earning both gasps of shock, looks of awe and horror and flat out amusement from everyone in the room. All while secretly enjoying watching the disgusting man's face grow red.
"I was attempting to be polite."
There could be no way anyone could have missed the strained tone as he attempted to be polite. To which she quirked an eyebrow in response.
"Ah! Frankly, Sir, I have no business being here. And I do not enjoy being on display for the pleasure of others. There is valuable work I could be doing on top of finishing up the database for this fall S.O.L.D.I.E.R.S recruits."
With that said, Kagome shook off Hojo's hand. Which was still attached to her wrist and walked to the double doors and freedom? Only to pause with a hand on the handle. Slowly she turned to face everyone. Slipping one hand into the pocket of her high waist blazer, fingering the spy toy she'd won at the arcade and putting an extra sweet smile on.
"Also, before I step out, I'd like to address everyone here."
With that, she let her eyes, once more, slide over each person in the room. She was letting them stay on Veld and Heidegger the longest, doing so to throw off her intended victim.
"I may not have much memory before Hojo, but I value my privacy. So I'd like to politely request that whichever one of you that has placed people to watch me... covertly... stop it, please. Due to my lack of memory, I am already paranoid. And I do not wish to feel cornered on top of it."
As she finished, she pulled her hand out of her pocket. She was showing the little black toy. As well as the red button on top of it.
"Before anyone can deny it. I have tagged the two that followed me last time I was out. Of course, the feeling of being both watched and followed has been going on for a few weeks. So let's just say I will start taking action."
Though Kagome kept her eyes mostly trained on Veld and Heidegger, Kagome noted everyone was watching her hand as she ran her thumb over the toy, getting closer and closer to the button. All but Hojo tensed about her pushing it. Wary since they didn't know what it would do.
"Well, I'm done wasting my precious time. Work to be done, and it is my job to get it done."
Dropping her hand, Kagome turned and opened the door, stepping out. As she did so, she released some of the youkai Sesshomaru had given her. After she closed the door, she heard the male voices. Pain lacing the shrieks of pain as her Reiki purified the youkai that she knew made a beeline for its natural enemy. She was chuckling darkly to herself as she told herself mentally to behave.
With that Kagome stepped away from the door, she heard Hojo declare he would appreciate it if they'd leave her alone because it'd only serve to make living with her a bit more complicated. Something he would personally retaliate over.
Month 2, Week 3, Day 3: Monsters
Eyes wide as she walked behind both Hojo and Lydia. Still a bit in shock at being told they'd be going out. Moreso when Lydia was seen leaning against a white four-door car. A huge smile on her face. Kagome had become fast friends with her in the last week and a half. She was learning all sorts of things, like Hojo helping her conceive her son, Rufus.
The boy said his mother had hair, eyes, and skin. But was very soft-spoken, something his father hated and his mother encouraged. In fact, he was part of the reason that they were all there. According to Lydia, both Reginald, and she agreed he needed a bit more confidence in himself. And what better way than a pet. Though Kagome wasn't sure how a monster constituted as a pet. But hey, who was she to say! Lydia had a queen Coeurl.
"Does he get along with Cleo?"
"No, not particularly. Cleo tolerates him."
"Hm, So, does that go for all felines?"
"Pretty much."
As she listened, Kagome let a smile danced at the corners of her mouth. A typical little boy. As Lydia was telling Hojo no humorously that no humanoid monsters nor flying. Kagome decided to speak up.
"How about a Dog?"
Pausing in mid-stride when both looked back at her, to which she just rolled her shoulders in a shrug. The smile still on her lips as both people looked thoughtfully at each other. Before turning to walk in a different direction, once more discussing the various canine breeds of monsters. Forgetting that she was there, which was okay with her. It allowed her to roam through the pens and cages. She was taking her time to look at each creature held in them.
Who all looked back at her with varying degrees of wariness and hostility mixed with curiosity. She attributed that as a combination of being captured, forced to live in this place, and less than pleasant conditions. On top of her being a predator to them, as their instincts warned them about her 'unnatural' gifts. She was an unassuming package that could hurt. Though she was not trying to make them feel on edge, she felt both her Reiki and Youkai flaring in warning not to mess with her.
Closing her eyes, Kagome focused on all the human auras, finding that Lydia and Hojo were almost on the other side of the compound from her, neither noticing she was not with them. While the ones near here were fluctuating in anxiety. Drawing on her natural curiosity, Kagome slowly began to make her way toward them. Only to go still where she stood when a roar rang out, echoing in the warehouse. The whole building shook from the force of it, as she recalled the first time Sesshomaru changed into his large dog form and did the same thing. All around her, the monsters began to panic, yowling, screaming, and trying to get out to get to safety.
Figuring whatever it was, Kagome knew it was in pain, scared, and a bigger predator than even herself to the monsters. Not giving any thought as her feet moved on their own, taking her in the general direction that the roar had come from. It just so happened to be the direction of all the anxious human auras. She pursed her lips as another roar sounded out. This time it spoke as if warning those humans near it and desperation.
Twisting through a few crates, Kagome got her first glimpse of the beast. It was terrifying to just look at, but at the same time, it was majestic. It was standing just a little shorter than Sesshomaru's dog form, bulky with muscles, sleek coat a light shade of purple fur, with a shaggy black mane that ran a fair distance down its back. Its head had to large black horns sprouting above its ears. Said head was being tossed back and forth as it paced, baring teeth almost as long as she was tall.
Quickly glancing at all the people gathered, only to frown as they raised pronged metal poles that sparked at the end. Their shouts were serving to agitate the beast further even further as a giant black claw was swiped at them. They are giving Kagome a good side view of the creature and allowing her to identify why it was in such a state and acting out like it was.
Again her feet moved on their own, taking her forward, hands outstretched. Once she was next to the nearest handler, Kagome grabbed the rod as he attempted to strike the beast in the cage. She was earning a snarl and dirty look.
"What the hell, woman. Do not interfere; we have to subdue the damned beast."
Narrowing her eyes as he tried to jerk the prod from her, Kagome let her emotions surface as she kicked the man in the shins while pulling the prod out of his hands. Having drawn the other's attention to them with her actions, she waved the prod in silent warning to not just the man, but everyone, making them go still.
"You need to stop. It's not going wild; it is in pain, you ignoramus."
Her words had them all laughing when she heard Lydia ask what the hell was going on from behind her. Which the man who's proud she had taken spoke up, Making Kagome roll her eyes at him and the situation. When he finished, she huffed.
"Kagome, care to elaborate on your actions."
It was not a question; it was flat out requested. One that had Kagome smiling widely at Hojo, who just looked nonplussed at the beaming smile being sent his way.
"Take a look at the... whatever she is and tell me what you see, Hojo, Mrs. Lydia."
It took a few minutes before she got a response. Kagome took that time to observe the beast, whose black eyes were watching them all warily.
"It is a behemoth, king of beast. Rather on the small side for the species. Probably a young one."
Groaning and rolling her eyes at Hojo's response, she shot sideways and looked at Lydia. Whose eyes were wide from shock.
"It is a female, definitely young. But more importantly, from the look of it and pregnant and near the end of term."
She was throwing her hands up dramatically, almost losing the prod. Kagome muttered darkly, Thank You!. As Hojo moved to stand in front of her, already muttering statistics, fascination showing on his face. Speaking volumes about this whole scenario. All the while, Lydia was ripping into the workers.
Kagome smiled and set the prod on the ground by her feet, before walking to the bars of the cage. Her blue eyes never strayed from the behemoths, as it was called. Showing no fear or presenting herself as a threat, letting her aura reach out and inspect it. Caution flashing in those dark eyes as it began to pace once again, stress rolling off it.
"You're scared, aren't you, girl. Those horrible people did mean things to you. I bet all you want is peace and quiet to have your baby. Well, I cannot guarantee you much, but please calm down. Because it's not helping your little one." Her voice was soft as she spoke to the Behemoth with respect.
Unaware of the spectacle she was making of herself. Kagome just kept projecting a calm aura and talking to it as if it was a friend. Her body pressed up against the bars, as everyone present just watched in a mix of horror and amusement. Soon the Behemoth calmed enough to lay down. It's breathing labored as it emitted soft grunts every few seconds.
She was smiling happily as the Behemoth started to relax. Kagome began to hum a lullaby. She was seeing and feeling the beast's aura jumping erratically. Only to stop as it growled in warning. Looking over her shoulder, she saw that Hojo had moved closer to her and the cage. With a quick shake of her head, Kagome indicated he needed to stay away.
"How are you doing this? I need the information. Not much is known about this species, let alone about their breeding and birthing," Hojo demanded via their mental link.
She was turning her gaze back to the Behemoth, who was back to labored breathing and soft grunts. Kagome rolled her eyes in annoyance. The man was so easy to read, even understand. Starting up her singing again, she gave him a reply.
"Would being my natural self, satisfy you? As for the birthing, that will happen soon enough, unless there are complications. Poor girl is struggling, in pain," Kagome quipped back in response.
A loud snort drew Kagome from her conversation, to see the Behemoth was cleaning itself and flexing its hip muscles. But nothing was happening. Waves of fear slammed into Kagome, forcing the breath from her lungs. Sucking on her bottom lip, chewing it briefly, kagomes eyes met the beasts, seeing a silent please in their black depths.
"Lydia, I need everyone to leave, but Hojo and you. Being watched by so many, she is panicking. It could potentially harm, if not kill the baby," Kagome said.
When a soft, okay from the older woman was heard before she started to shout orders, which caused the employees to run, scrambling to leave quickly as possible. Hojo was pensive at the potential of losing not just one, but both creatures as a specimen. And with what she was about to do, he was going to blow his gasket for days, if not weeks to come. This was karma; she had a purpose of being here. And payback for what he told her the other day to boot.
"Thank you," Kagome said as she turned her body sideways and slipped between the bars.
Keeping up the calming aura she was projecting, totally ignoring Hojo's spoken and mental ranting, Kagome took a few steps and stopped. Her lucid gaze was meeting the Behemoths in a nerve-wracking stare down before the beast went back to cleaning herself. Taking the hint, Kagome moved closer and closer, though slowly just in case. Feeling the fine hair on her neck and arms stand up at the raw power the creature was giving off while quelling her own Reiki.
The hours seemed to fly by after she'd gotten as close as possible. Still left breathless, if not slightly grossed out at the miracle of birth. But there before her was a baby, (Just a foot shorter than her five feet two inches) being cleaned and fed. Though Kagome was not paying attention to the touching scene. Rather the fading aura of the larger female. Causing a pulling sensation at her heartstrings.
Giving a small sigh, she turned her sad, weary blue eyes toward Hojo. Who met them and shook his head. She was answering the unspoken question. Feeling defeated, Kagome let her shoulders drop. It was an inevitable thing. Life could be so cruel, and this was very cruel indeed.
"Do not get emotional. We know next to nothing about this particular monster. For all, we know this is par for the course," Hojo told her over their mental link.
Narrowing her eyes and setting her jaw at Hojo's words, Kagome nodded her head. Only to go very still as a long, thick purple tail stopped her from walking out of the cage. Her hair was soon blown over her shoulder by a hot, stinky puff of air, or rather breathe.
Swallowing, Kagome turned around very slowly where she stood, her face inches from a large black nose. Causing her to blink rapidly, just to cringe and gasp in the next second as a large tongue licked her from feet to head. A tongue that just cleaned up birthing fluids and ate a placenta. Now drenched in saliva, with Hojo's cackles echoing in her head, Kagome stared into black eyes that were dimming.
The low rumbling that she construed as a purr of some type made Kagome pull back. It was allowing the beast to move its head before pushing the small baby towards her. One look in those now dull onyx colored eyes told her what she needed to know. This was a very intelligent creature who was wanting her to raise its baby.
As soon as the baby was by her side, curled up, a high-pitched keening echoed throughout the warehouse. Having been around wolf demons, she knew what this was. The passing of a strong warrior, all acknowledged their death with a song. The monsters here were doing that to the Behemoth. It was a final send-off that showed their respect to the king of beast. Tears flowed from her eyes as she let her hand come to rest on the small baby by her side. So, in respect, Kagome threw her head back and howled as well. Letting her tiny, little voice harmonize with the others as they did the second chorus
"Kagome?"
Once she too finished howling, she spun to look at Lydia and Hojo. She was stroking the baby by her side, deciding what to call it.
"He is mine — a dying mother's request. I won't Ignore, Hojo," she said, before switching to speaking aloud.
"The cub is mine; his name is Akuro. I want you to find a way to get all the milk from the mother once she has passed away. If there is nothing else, Hojo, we need to make arrangements to keep him."
Silence met her words. Before she quirked an eyebrow, getting a loud laugh from Lydia. Who barked out orders to comply with what Kagome had asked for. Though those blue eyes of Lydia's were assessing Kagome shrewdly. She was making Kagome feel like she was under a microscope.
"How do you know it is a boy?"
Unable to help herself, Kagome burst out laughing at the question Lydia asked. Before explaining that as he was born, there was no second slit in the back. Earning a double laugh from both Lydia and Hojo.
Month 2, Week 3, Day 6: Precise
It was that wonderful time when Hojo wanted to test her abilities. Not that she minded. Testing was par for the course, but it was the extras standing next to Hojo and the small metal object she was holding that had her disgruntled and feeling like a performing monkey.
She was shooting a glare at the sideline, curling her lip into a half snarl. Kagome bent down and set the offensive object on the floor, before standing back up and kicking it back to the people off to the side. Her hands balled into a fist that were set on her hips, being openly defiant.
"What are you doing? Pick it up!"
"No! I refuse to use that abhorrent thing. An abortion sounds more appealing, Veld," Kagome growled at the man.
The groan, mixed with choked gasps of shock at her choice of words, had Kagome smiling. Knowing it was the Youki in her. It didn't like the idea any more than she did to use the small gun.
"Why is she being difficult, Hojo?" Veld asked.
Keeping the cruel, smiling mask in place, Kagome s shifted enough to look at Veld. The leader of the Turks, In her opinion, was a dense man. She did not like this man any more than she did Reginald and Heidegger. More-so since, he openly stated females belonged at home. On top of being the one to request, she uses the damn gun.
"That Veld is something you have to ask her. I believe I stated already, at the meeting, I do not speak for her, ever," Hojo stated blithely.
When the said man turned to direct his dark gaze back at her, Kagome let her smile turned predatory. Eyes were shining in wicked glee as he looked just for a second, uncomfortable.
"Why are you being so difficult?" Veld finally asked her.
His stressing of the words made her raise an eyebrow. Giving him a disdainful sniff, Kagome chose her words carefully.
"Because I do not like the feel of it. To me, it is a chunky, loud, smelly, and completely inefficient tool," Kagome replied primly.
The dry chuckle in the back of her mind told her Hojo was finding this amusing. He knew she was baiting the overconfident man.
"Oh, pray tell Miss, if you haven't used one or have the memory of using one, how would you know?" Veld asked in a tone that said he was trying to humor her.
While the question was legit, even anticipated, Kagome wouldn't allow him to bait her. No, he was her prey. So, flashing Veld, a bright, cheesy smile as a soft laugh escaped her lips.
"Because I've been to the gun range. Watched people practice with them, and now thanks to you have held one," Kagome snapped.
Silence filled the air as they stared at each other before Veld glanced away again. His eyes were showing his mind working. Meaning he was biting.
"Then what weapon, or rather projectile, do you find accurate," Veld finally asked her
"Bow and Arrows," Kagome said with a smile.
The deadpanned look he gave her was all she needed. Her next words would push him into the proper position for the check on a chessboard.
"I can prove it too. Against a person of your choosing," She said, goading him.
The visible clenching of his jaw, accompanied by a tick in his cheek. Kagome knew he was pissed and hooked. Already, she knew that Hojo was shuffling away to get the stuff they'd made and would need. It was time to have a good ol' paintball session. Or, in this case, Colored Chalk checkmate.
A soft chuckle crawled up her throat as Kagome recalled that conversation. It had happened after she had finished entering all candidates into the computer. Hojo had finally given her permission to read up on the stuff that they were put through in S.O.L.D.I.E.R. training. She had muttered about laser tag. She was drawing the man to her via curiosity. From there, she had explained in rough terms, the mechanics, before mentioning paintball tournaments.
Now it was time to apply what they had created.
"Fine. Vincent Valentine shall be your opponent," Veld said, oozing smugness.
Quirking an eyebrow, Kagome felt both a thrill and a bit of fear. She'd seen just how accurate he was. The look on his face made her think of Sesshomaru in battle mode.
"I accept, Veld. It should be a great test of our skills," Kagome said, grinning broadly at him.
Before Veld could reply, Hojo called for them to follow him. Vincent, who was shooting her a questioning look, having been called down by Hojo already, as she reached the waist-high wall, climbing over it clumsily, (Again, she noted some things just don't ever change) shaking her head. If this trail went well, Hojo intended to get it added to the training regimen. And she right now would get to have fun.
The walk down the flat gray hallway was done in relative silence. Until they reached an indoor jungle. Kagome was still amazed they had grown a tropical Jungle inside the Shinra building. It was beautiful and the perfect place for what they were planning on testing. She was sure once things were explained to Vincent, he would have fun with this as well.
"Why are we here of all places," Veld asked.
Staying silent, Kagome watched Hojo pull out her bow and arrows, a large handgun, and a small pistol. Both single burst automatics. Placing them on the ground.
"Where else Veld would one practice Stealth, precision, and survival?" Hojo asked the man, his tone scathing.
She was pressing her lips into a thin line to keep from laughing aloud at Hojo's scathing tone while Veld tried not to turn purple in his mounting rage.
"Anyways. It will be a test of skills. An archaic weapon against modern. The ammunition for both has been modified, so other than bruising and possibly a few welts, no one will be too terribly hurt. When hit, a mark made of colored chalk will be left. If a killing blow is made, the match is instantly over. When one or both parties run out of ammunition, the match is over. Each person has the same amount of ammunition. Those are the rules, simple, yes?" Hojo explained.
The brief look of amusement on Vincent's face was all Kagome needed. It said he was interested. Giving a small nod of her head, Hojo motioned for them to pick up their designated weapons, which they did. Each acknowledged the other with a silent tilt of their chins before moving into the jungles dense foliage, starting their little match of prey and predator.
000
A small grimace on her face as she labored to breathe. There was only one arrow left at her disposal. While knowing her opponent had at least two rounds left in his weapon. It had been well over three hours. And Kagome would be damned if she was going to lose this without putting up a good fight. Going into this knowing, Vincent was a very deadly opponent, now realizing that assessment was a gross understatement. He was a demon in human flesh.
Grinning at the thought, she crouched down and crab-walked around the tree that she was pressed against, her back feeling the bark rubbing painfully against a large welt just above her right hip. Somehow she'd dodged the bullet, a shot that should have been fatal. Then again, her luck was so random. That wasn't the only mark on her body. But she knew Vincent was sporting his painful decorations.
With a deep breath to help calm herself, Kagome heard the very faint rustle of underbrush. Narrowing her eyes, the sound of a gun being cocked had her tensing and rolling forward. The sound of the blank hitting where she had just been sent a rush of adrenaline coursing through her tired limbs. A quick boost to her energy levels, she stood up and ran into the jungle opposite where the shot had come from. Blue eyes were looking for that brief flash of a white shirt, dotted with red chalk since he had used his suit jacket as a distraction. One that had wasted an arrow.
The moment she caught sight of what she was looking for, Kagome let her body drop to the ground and rolled under some ferns. Glad she had favored a dark green blouse and matching leggings today. It helped marginally, as she stilled, to blend in.
Kagome swallowed nervously as she heard nothing. Wanting to open her senses and use her Reiki, Kagome knew it'd be cheating. Keeping flat to the ground and belly crawled in tiny increments to minimize moving the foliage too much. What she wanted was higher ground. So, her eyes stayed trained to the tree before her. It was the only advantage she could think of.
Seconds turned into minutes that dragged on. Sitting in the tree, bowstrung and drawn, the arrow loosely notched as kagome scanned the area around her. Frustration welling up at not seeing her target, letting her breath hiss out between her teeth as she fought the urge to cheat. While admitting Vincent could probably give any of her old friends a run for their money.
When a chill ran up her spine, causing the fine hairs on her neck and arms to stand up, Kagome twisted at the waist, raising the bow and pulling the string taut. Eyes wide as they landed on her opponent, who was sitting several feet above her, his gun pointed at her. The distance meant he wouldn't miss. But what had Kagome's growing wide was the fact he was shirtless, causing heat to flood her face in shock.
Feeling a tremor run through her arms, it made her grip slip, prematurely firing the arrow. Time slowed down as it flew for Vincent, who smiled and fell backward, his long legs flexing and keeping him attached to the branch as he pointed and fired the pistol. Pain bloomed in her abdomen as she was knocked from her spot. A soft cry escaping her parted lips as the Youki inside her flared to life.
Body twisting in mid-air, so she landed with a jarring pain up her legs from the impact, on her feet. All through it, Kagome had not taken her eyes off of Vincent, who was climbing down to her swiftly. The worry in his dark eyes. While the sounds of others rushed through the plants to their location, filtered through her brain.
"Kagome? Hey, are you alright?" Vincent asked.
Though she heard Vincent speaking, she was still in shock and staring at his pale, well-muscled, and slender chest. The urge to reach out and caress it, possibly lick it burned hot in her. A reaction Kagome had no clue from where it came.
"Fuck."
At that single curse word, Kagome started coming back to herself. Only to feel her blouse being lifted. It was like bathing in an icy river. Reality crashed around her, with an ear-piercing shriek, Kagome curled her left hand into a fist and punched.
"Pervert!"
That single word resounded, echoing, through the makeshift jungle, accompanied by the sound of flesh connecting with flesh, causing everything to come to a halt, just as everyone reached Vincent and Kagome's location just in time to see her fist connect with his face.
Month 2, Week 2, Day 2: New Friend
She sat there, nursing her drink, eyes unfocused. It had been two days since the game of survival, and already Kagome was missing the adrenaline rush. Though she still felt horrible for her conditioned reaction (Thanks to Miroku and his lecherous ways), because now Vincent was wearing one hell of a shiner thanks to her.
Add on top of the dark glare he gave her, was not speaking to her, not for the black eye, but calling him a pervert. Yeah, Kagome knew it was safe to say she felt like shit. Even apologizing profusely wasn't helping the situation. Again it had her mind wandering about the male ego in general. So, with a snort, Kagome picked up her tumbler and slammed the contents before turning it upside down and placing it on the pyramid she had started to build at some point during the night.
"That's impressive and sad."
Narrowing her eyes as she lifted her head. She was catching a flash of red in the sliver of the mirror in the bottle covered backsplash. Kagome curled her lip into a half snarl.
"Red, if I wanted your opinion I'd give it to you..." She started to snap, only to trail off.
She spun on her stool as snapped, having enough of Reno's teasing since the incident. She felt justified and fortified with liquor to lay into him. Her rant though, died on the tip of her tongue. The set of gray eyes flashing down at her from under red, shaggy hair made her flush of alcohol darken.
"Oh, please do finish what you were gonna say, Miss. It'd be good practice for when you meet this red fellow," The man stated, a grin pulling the corners of his mouth upwards.
Opening and closing her mouth, Kagome couldn't seem to form any coherent words. So, with a definitive click of her teeth, as she finally snapped her mouth closed, she spun back to face the bar. Her eyes met the bartenders, long enough to order another drink. Already the liquor was being purified from her system.
"Aw, don't be like that. I wasn't trying to offend you," The man said.
The moment the drink was in front of her, Kagome lifted it to her lips, looking out of the corner of her eye at the red-haired man, who was now sitting next to her.
"Gin, Rick." The man quipped.
"Of course. Good to see you again." Rick, the bartender replied.
"You know...work..." The man said in the way of explaining.
With a small shake of her head, Kagome sipped at the whiskey. The way he just spoke caught her attention. Quickly she saturated her brain filed through everyone she met since coming to Midgar and ShinRa. This man did not register. The only redhead she knew was Reno, Turk, right now the current, most significant pain in her ass.
"By the way, Miss, the name is Genesis Rhapsody. You are a new face here. I'd never forgotten one as pretty as my own," The man said, introducing himself.
Kagome was in the process of swallowing another sip when he introduced himself — causing her to choke slightly and spew the precious liquor across the bar — earning her a few pats on the back until she got herself under control from coughing.
"I forgot I have that effect on people," Genesis said, the tone he used clearly saying he didn't care.
She was turning to face this man, Genesis, a smile on her lips. She'd just found this world's equivalent to the band of sevens, Jakotsu.
"Kagome Higurashi. And for the record, I have been coming here for over a month now. Work and my babysitter drive me to relax here. Usually, with some co-workers and friends," she said.
The single raised eyebrow she got had Kagome shrugging her shoulder in response. Soon, both of them were chuckling at the unspoken joke.
"So, where do you work, Kags?" Genesis asked.
At the use of her old nickname, her smile slipped a bit. Sighing, Kagome looked up at the bard ceiling and lowered it to look at Genesis as she gave her reply.
"ShinRa Labs. You?" Kagome replied, ruefully smiling at the use of a familiar nick-name.
The way those gray eyes narrowed just a fraction as he assessed her. Thinking of a reply, Kagome watched his aura draw closer to his body like a protective cloak. One that was battered and torn. She knew he had to be a part of either the Turks or the military program. And only killing could tatter a soul like that.
"Labs, huh?! I'm in S.O.L.D.I.E.R. So, that means I'll see you if you work for either Lucrecia or..." Genesis said before his eyes widened in realization.
As he trailed off, Kagome watched as his eyes almost bugged out of his head.
"Wait, are you the nutty professor's new pet? Holy Shit! How did an old fuddy-duddy get a chick like you to agree? Because I do not believe for a second, you have amnesia," Genesis half babbled, and half asked.
Giving a full-body laugh at his reaction, Kagome felt her mood lighten a little. She could tell she would be great friends with Genesis. With a large cheesy grin, she replied, specifically wording what she said to gauge his reaction.
"Well, what if I like old fuddy-duddy men? Who is a bit nutty and intelligent?" Kagome said, teasing Genesis.
The moment he grabbed the bar to keep from falling off his stool, as he crowed with laughter. She shook her head at him, his eyes wide in mock horror as he stared at her. Raising her hand, she shot the bartender a signal that all Genesis' drinks would be on her tonight. Glad that she had found another person to be friends with.
Month 2, Week 4, Day 6: EUREKA!
Eyes narrowed as she stared out the window while running on the treadmill. It was jumping from idea to idea. None felt right. They were leaving her a bit depressed and even more determined all at once. Kagome was very well aware she could talk to both Lydia and Scarlet, who were on either side of her on their treadmills. But their knowledge on the subject of cloning was non-existent.
Giving a low growl of annoyance, Kagome tapped the button on the dashboard, increasing her speed from a jog to a full outrun. Not noticing the concerned looks from her two friends. Her thoughts so absorbed in finding a solution to her predicament.
"Have you gone completely brain dead, Miko?"
The huffy voice of AraMitama had Kagome blinking. It had been a while since she had heard any of Mitama's voices. And sadly, she had neglected to try and speak with them herself.
"We wouldn't have answered. That alien would hear us in close proximity."
Puckering her lips, Kagome just stayed focused on staring out the window, while silently agreeing with Ara.
"What do you mean by brain dead? And alien aside, I still shouldn't have been neglecting you guys." Kagome asked back.
A loud snort came from Ara, two chuckles from Kusi and Nigi, and a soft sigh from Saki echoed in her mind. A not so good sign. Unaware of her body tensing and a grimace forming on her face, Kagome shifted to the mental place in her head all the Mitama's occupied.
"Kagome, you've been in this world for months. This place is a little over two months old. Did you forget about your last life, already? Were those you acquainted with? Conversations you had late at night with particular people? Most importantly, who and what you are now?"
As she looked at Nigi in stunned silence, Kagome had an epiphany. A sudden inspiration that made her want to slam her head against a brick wall. It was true; she did put a mental block up to avoid the pain of missing those she called friends, and to help deal with the guilt she was now feeling over her choice, albeit it was small.
Again the Mitamas in unison made various noises in reaction to her. Kagome could feel their affection for her. Already her mind was recalling each conversation, jumping from one to another. she had with individuals, stopping on one in particular that had happened a week before the final battle. Carefully, Kagome replayed it in her head, listening to what had been told to her over a simple, naive question.
The shock she felt snapped her back to full consciousness and pain. A lot of pain. All over her body pain, as she looked up into two pairs of blue eyes, that looked worriedly at her. Unable to help it, Kagome giggled up at them.
"Kagome, are you alright?"
Her giggling turned into full-blown laughter, increasing the pain she was feeling all over her body and causing both Lydia and Scarlet to look Panicked.
"Eureka!" Kagome just blurted out before continuing to laugh uncontrollably.
It was so simple. And during her next Mako bath, she'd be asking a certain silver-haired demon lord if she could replicate a child as he had described. DNA, blood, and magic were what he said for him to make a pure-blooded child without a mother. She was sure she could modify it to make a clone of herself. A perfect clone that could house the Youki in her body has all her memories, just like Hojo told her she had to do.
TBC!
