Author's NOTEs: . Itetetetetete…I just came back from 3 hours of Ken Po
training, but here I am writing away and ignoring the sore muscles ~.~. It
was so much fun too! There was a boy who trained me to work with a bo
staff (6ft long stick) and another boy with a bokken (wooden sword)!
Anywho, my reviewers are so cute! I love you guys. It's really helpful
when you tell me what I'm doing with my style (because I have no idea). ^-
^!
SIDE NOTE: This has absolutely nothing (or very little) to do with the story, but I just feel like mentioning it. Isn't it adorable that Souta calls Inu Yasha "Inu no niichan"? I just still can't get over it (makes for a nifty song). And what makes it super cute is that it can be translated a couple ways. Dog brother or doggie bro or just Inu brother. Cute, huh? He refers to him like family. Cu~~ute!
Meanwhile, I did a lot more research on Tokyo, its habits and Shibuya. As it turns out, it seems I have made a lovely choice with Shibuya because it's quite a popular place, especially for girls in high school. Not to mention, the place sounds really interesting. They have all sorts of shops there that quite literally sell everything. The reason it's so popular is partly because Shibuya Center Street is a key transportation point where a number of subway and train stations are located. But it's a really nifty place for anyone.
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Sango sighed as she walked out of the elevator into the deserted lobby of Kara no Tsuki Corp. It had been a long day and she had turned up virtually nothing she needed on that idiot following Sesshomaru around. Supposedly, he was 27 years old, had graduated from the University of Tokyo, and had a perfect list of recommendations.
So his application said.
His application also said his name was Hayami Miroku. Sango narrowed her eyebrows in concentration as she walked past the elevators. But she couldn't find a thing on a Hayami Miroku underground. There was a Miroku floating around though.
"Hello beautiful."
But that was only on this building's computers. These carried next to nothing compared to her computer. She'd have to do a lot of research tonight into that name and see if some pictures went along with it. She rolled her eyes. To calm a youkai of all things.
"Excuse me?"
Sango blinked. Well speak of the devil. She smiled. "Yes?"
Miroku grinned. "Have I seen you here before?"
"Maybe. I recently began working for Hayaoki Sesshomaru. Do you know him?"
Miroku raised an eyebrow. "Well he is the owner."
Sango acted flustered. "Oh right. I seem to have forgotten that."
Miroku tilted his head and stopped in front of Sango.
If he was looking for something, he wouldn't find it. "Would you like to get a drink with me? I just got off work too."
…Nani? Well that was…forward. Sango forced a light smile. "Do you usually ask girls out when you don't know their names?"
Miroku leaned back a bit and smiled, then bowed. "I am Hayami Miroku."
Sango bowed. "My name is-"
Sango's eyes flew open in shock as she quickly stood back up, quite flustered. Had he just…? Sango stood, frozen to her spot. But he…She didn't even react as Miroku shrugged and walked around her towards the revolving doors. He…he had! Sango turned to watch Miroku leave. That…that…sukebe! Utter disbelief ran through her mind. That sukebe had just felt her up!
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Inu Yasha heaved a sigh into the cold night air as he slowly walked down the sidewalk of a deserted street. He had removed any kitsune spells covering his hanyou appearance and walked comfortably enough. Despite physical ease, frustration couldn't even begin to describe his mental state. Kikyou hadn't even spoken a word to him today. Lucky the two had dialogue together, or he might've forgotten what her voice sounded like. Not to mention Jakotsu didn't leave him alone today. At all. He didn't even have a chance to sneak out and relax for an hour. Jerks.
He slowed down when he realized he was walking past the entrance to a shrine. He stopped in front of the large set of stairs leading up to the entrance arch. At night, the place was eerily quiet. Maybe no one would notice him if he found a quiet place to sit around there. Hell, the shrine master might not even be there. Before his mind could come up with any arguments, Inu Yasha took the one leap necessary for him to be at the top of the stairs. He found himself facing a fairly large courtyard. There was a well house to his left and straight ahead stood the well-kept shrine, home to whoever took care of the place. His eyes narrowed as they fell upon an enormous tree. It seemed very odd and familiar to him. He walked a bit closer to it and read the little sign in front.
The Goshinboku Tree. Said to be centuries old. Well into the Sengoku Era. Inu Yasha looked to the top of the massive tree. Well it was big enough. It is said that there was once a youkai fastened to it, unable to move. Inu Yasha snorted. Like that was possible.
A twig snapped nearby and Inu Yasha's ears twitched in its direction.
"Who's there?" Kagome peered into the darkness surrounding her Goshinboku tree. "I could've sworn I sensed something…"
Inu Yasha held his breath. A second more and he would've been caught. He gripped the branch of the large tree he sat on. When was the last time he sat in a tree? His ears caught her mumbling something under her breath, though he couldn't catch the words. She sounded familiar. He peered through the branches. Her face was obscured by her bangs. Damn. After a moment of looking around, the girl sighed. "I don't suppose someone would answer."
Inu Yasha grinned. If only she knew…
A phone ringing from inside the house caught her attention and she reluctantly ran home to answer it. Inu Yasha leaned back against the trunk and settled his legs comfortably on the wide branch. Maybe he would spend the night here. Sesshomaru would never miss him. With a wry grin, he added another thought. Neither would Kikyou.
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Miroku hummed lightly as he towel-dried his hair. Today had been interesting. So far. But it was already 10:30 and he still wanted to get a few hours in Harlem. A simply perfect place for him. He was respected, relaxed and confident there. Not that he wasn't in most places, but there was something significant about Harlem.
His thoughts wandered to the woman he had met earlier in the evening. Specially the one that worked for Sesshomaru. He had noticed her a little while back, but hadn't had time to confront her. He was glad he did. She seemed to be the type that responded well to his attentions. In his tastes. She wasn't as…willing as the others, making her something of a game. A challenge. He grinned. Something to look forward to.
After getting dressed, he made one last check in the mirror. Maybe he would see her at Harlem. Give him something else to like about the place.
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"And after that whole day, some jackass decides to feel me up."
"Nani?? Sango-chan, you let someone do that?"
Sango rolled her eyes and let out a breath of irritation at the thought. "It's not like I wanted it to happen. I didn't really expect it. I mean, not that we really were in a crowded place, but we were in public."
"I thought you said the lobby was deserted."
Sango sighed. "Kagome-chan…"
Kagome pouted. "Well you did. So who is he?"
"Some guy that works for Hayaoki Sesshomaru."
"What's his name?"
Sango hesitated. Well, there was no harm in telling the first name, right? "It was something Miroku. I can't really remember his last name."
Kagome rolled her eyes. Sango never forgot last names. "Miroku? Does he have violet eyes?"
Sango narrowed her eyes in confusion. "What? Yeah…how did you…?"
"There's a guy that goes to Harlem* a lot. You know that club I go to? His name is Miroku too and he seems to have the same habit." Kagome paused and waited for an answer. Nothing... "Why don't we go to Harlem tonight? He always goes on Fridays."
"What?? You think I ever want to see that hentai again? Ha!"
Kagome stifled a laugh. It would only serve to further Sango's anger. "I was just thinking you could do something mean to him there."
"Kagome-chan?"
"Well, just to pay him back, you know?"
Well, if Kagome suggested revenge, then you knew it had to happen. "Did you have anything in mind?"
Inu Yasha leaned a bit further down on the roof to listen to the phone conversation. He was surprised to find out that this was the same girl from the grocery store this morning. He looked around the room. None of those kids they had mentioned in the store. And it seemed she lived alone. With the exception of that boy that sat eating at the kitchen table. From what he gathered, the boy, Souta, was her brother. He looked back at Kagome. What was that habit she said this Miroku had? He stared at her a bit. She didn't look as much like Kikyou as he had thought at first. Much more…vibrant? Definitely not as angry. Even when she was angry. Maybe she would be nice to meet. Somehow. Maybe it was the blood rushing to his head as he hung upside down from the roof. Who knew?
Suddenly, the boy looked in his direction and quickly stood up. Inu Yasha scrambled back up to the roof. Had he seen him? That couldn't help Inu Yasha's situation any. The boy tentatively stepped outside, completely silent. Turning to look inside once, the boy stared up at the roof. "Are you hungry? We won't tell anyone."
Now Inu Yasha was just more confused than anything. But he stayed rooted to his seat, out of sight.
"If you are, just let me know. I can leave some food for you if you'd like." The boy stood a moment longer waiting for an answer, then headed back inside.
Slowly, Inu Yasha crept back down to the edge of the roof. Kagome's voice filtered back to him. "Look, I'm going to Harlem tonight anyway. Why don't you meet me there around 10:30, okay? Then we can figure something out."
Sango sighed. "Fine…I'll go dressed."
Kagome smiled brightly. "Good! Ja ne Sango-chan!"
"Ja."
Kagome sighed heavily. Sometimes Sango was really hard to take care of.
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Rin stared at herself in the mirror and sighed. She looked fantastic for a night out. But no one to spend that night with. Well, she would meet someone tonight. At Harlem. She grinned. Whether they liked it or not! She walked to the little kitchen of her tiny apartment. It was all she could afford really. Still, it was nicer than that orphanage. Anything was nicer than that place…
Rin shook her head. No point in thinking bad thoughts. With a resolved smile, Rin walked to her door. Tonight was her night. She would meet a nice man and live happily ever after. Maybe it was a little idealistic, but…but so what? Her dream had to start somewhere. She made sure to lock her door and walked towards the stairs. Sesshomaru-sama had helped her with a nice job. He was a very nice man really. Lots of people seemed afraid of him though. Especially that Jaken. But he was very nice to her. Almost too nice sometimes. Oh well, never turn down a gift like that.
Did Sesshomaru-sama ever go out? He didn't seem to have much fun. She would have to take care of that.
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Kagome rushed down the narrow street that was her shortcut to Harlem. Sango was going to kill her! She was already 10 minutes late because she couldn't catch a taxi. The next bus wouldn't be for another half hour and she was LATE! Mou…
Before she knew what happened, Kagome was face to face with the cold pavement. Pain shot through the nerves in her legs and chest. She was surrounded by large shadows.
"Hey girlie."
"Where you running Onee-chan?"
Her veins turned to ice as her eyes darted about. There were at least four, no, five guys around her. One of them had tripped her. One grabbed for her arm and roughly pulled her up. "Looking for some fun?"
Kagome's eyes went wide in terror. Everything in her body suddenly went stiff and numb at the same time. Sharp pricks spread over her skin. One shoved her against the wall. Another pulled at her top. Another her skirt. Kagome screamed and desperately clung to her clothes. Someone slapped her. Blood trickled down from her lip. The top was torn off. Kagome screamed again. She barely heard the laughter in the back of her head. The sick laughter that made her insides turn. She was going to throw up. Her skirt was torn, clinging lightly to her hips.
She heard a loud crack and the laughter turned to shouts. Tears ran down her cheeks. A sick thud hit the ground. Another muffled pound. The sound of tearing clothing. Footsteps running away. And then silence.
Utter and complete silence.
Save for her ragged breathing.
She slowly opened her eyes, cowering against the wall. The dark alley allowed her only the sight of a form standing near her, his back to her. He hesitantly turned towards her after a moment, amber eyes reflecting in the darkness. "Are you…?"
Kagome nodded slowly. "I…" She paused, her breath shaky, and moved towards him in tears. "Thank you!"
He took a step towards her and held her shoulders. "You should go home."
Kagome nodded again.
"Are you far from here?"
"A little."
"Do you want me to take you home?"
Kagome nodded, hesitantly stepping forward again. Instantly, her knees locked and she tumbled to the ground. He quickly stepped forward and pulled her up. "Get on my back. You can't walk."
Kagome stared into the amber eyes. The only things she could see in the darkness. "Ok…"
Though gracelessly done, Kagome pulled herself onto his back and he adjusted her weight, pulling her legs up a bit with his hands. After they got out of the alley, he continued walking down the dimly lit street. His hair was white. Was that possible? It was probably just the lighting. Her head suddenly felt heavy and she laid it on his shoulder. She sighed. His scent was so comforting. The body heat from his back absorbed her somehow and made her forget. Eyelids slowly fell until the warmth surrounding her was the only thing she knew existed.
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Rin tucked her hair back in to place as she quickly hopped off the trolley. She set a brisk walk to Harlem, stepping lightly. She hoped her outfit would help her catch some eyes. She had been saving money for it for a while now. Her new job from Sesshomaru-sama definitely sped things up for her. The skirt was dark red and long with slits on each side reaching her thighs. It was so fun to walk in! And the top was a deep red and so sparkly! Even her shoes were a sparkling red to match. Rin was very happy as she stood outside the entrance to Harlem.
She easily walked past the bouncer, who saw it fit to let her pass. He was awfully lean for a bouncer though. His name tag said Fukashigi Kouga. He gave her a nice smile as she passed and all else was forgotten. Rin quickly made her way over to the bar to order a drink. And hopefully meet someone to dance with.
"What'll it be?"
She smiled. The bartender was a girl. She looked new. "Nothing too strong. Rum and Coke. On the rocks." The girl nodded. Rin decided she was very pretty. Her eyes were the strangest shade. Almost red. They sparkled in the flares of light that jumped throughout the main room.
Movement to her right caught her eye. How lucky! A very handsome boy was standing next to her, alone. "Kagura, give me a scotch."
The bartender nodded. Kagura? What a pretty name. Rin looked back at the boy and frowned slightly. He seemed so…sad.
"Hello." Rin extended her hand. "I'm Hazumi Rin."
The boy looked up, slightly startled. "H-hello."
There was a pause in the conversation.
Luckily, it was quickly broken when Kagura passed the two of them their drinks. He nodded to Kagura and hesitantly turned back to Rin. "I…I'm Kohaku…" He was so quiet she barely heard him.
Rin smiled brightly. "Okay. You call me Rin then, ok?"
He nodded slowly.
"Good." She picked up her drink and grabbed Kohaku's hand, tugging him forward. "Let's go have fun."
Kohaku could only nod dumbly and stumble after Rin as she pulled them to a table to set their drinks down. After doing so, she once again grabbed his hand and pulled him to the dance floor; thankfully, he had regained most of his composure by then.
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Sango sighed in frustration as she leaned back to prop her elbows on the end of the bar. Inside the club's dark main room, clouds of cigarette smoke swirled and blue stardust whirled about a throng of dancing people. She had agreed to go with Kagome to Harlem for a little relaxing. However, it seemed that she was doing this alone. She was 20 minutes late.
Another sigh escaped her lips. If she wasn't here in another 10 minutes she was leaving.
A squeal from several girls caught her attention and Sango looked up to see Miroku enter the room. Sango's jaw nearly dropped. He was wearing a pair of black slacks and a violet shirt that clung to his frame. The only three buttons were left unbuttoned. His hair was slightly messy, but looked nice pulled back in that ponytail. And he looked amazing. A smile crept onto her face. He did know how to dress. Sango shook her head. What was she thinking? Well, either way, she wouldn't let this evening be a waste. Might as well observe him.
Miroku walked towards her with a languid pace, his eyes freely roaming her figure, and gave Sango a charming grin, almost lop-sided. "Hello."
Sango struggled to keep a blush from burning her cheeks from his perusal. Though her dress did not reveal as much as many of the other female clubbers, she had dressed so that she fit in. Her form-fitting Chinese dress with an African print seemed to be attracting Miroku. Or was it the slit that nearly reached her hip? The blush continued rising. How old was she? What was wrong with her anyway? She lifted her chin in the air and looked him straight in the eyes. "You're not welcome."
"You're stunning."
Sango opened her mouth to say something, expecting some silly retort from him, but nothing came after his compliment. This idiot managed to push the right buttons to embarrass her. Sango looked off towards the dance floor for a distraction.
"Shall we?"
Sango raised her eyebrow and slowly looked back at him. "Shall we what?"
"Dance! We are in a club, aren't we?"
Sango rolled her eyes. "Last time we were close, you felt me up."
"So?"
Sango narrowed her eyes in confusion. So? What the hell? Nothing to say, again. Well, it would be the easiest way to observe him since he already knew she was here. In fact…he had made a beeline to her. But she really didn't want to get close to him. There was something of a trust issue here that he was pushing. "Maybe later."
Miroku smiled. "I'll hold you to that."
Sango merely looked back to the dance floor. Somehow she knew he would. If he wouldn't get distracted.
A sudden unexpected whisper in her ear sent a shiver up the back of her neck. "What do you suggest we do until then?"
Sango's eyes widened. She was staring directly at the crook of his neck and she found tingles spreading over her neck every time he breathed with his arms on either side of her. She harshly whispered an answer. "It was your idea in the first place. You should know." She regretted the words the moment they left her mouth and before he could make his own suggestion, she added, "I don't even know you. We don't need to do anything together."
Miroku feigned a hurt tone. "But there aren't any seats on the other side of the room."
Sango couldn't think. It was very difficult to breathe considering Miroku hadn't budged from his position leaning over her, his cheek at times brushing against hers, his other arm trapping her between his arms, his bangs tickling her ear. She felt her heart pounding in her chest. If they hadn't been in such a club, this would have already been noticed. And even this* was something for Harlem. Sango felt like she would faint. "You need to…" She swallowed as Miroku came even closer, leaning on the bar behind her with his hands.
"Yes?"
"Need to…" He was so close, she could smell his cologne. Which was rather pleasant actually. He was incredibly attractive and distracting. Maybe she should give in...
Wait, did she just think that? Oh Kami… "Go over there." Miroku pulled back enough so that he could look at her. She held a firm gaze.
Miroku merely shrugged and returned to a relaxed standing position with a subtle smirk tugging at his lips. "It's been nice talking with you Sango." He winked and wandered over to the other side of the room. All she could really was stare after him. She hadn't allowed herself to get into a position like that in a long time. Especially not in public. He had made her so…well, vulnerable. How had he done that? Wasn't she trained to stay out of situations like that? And hey wait! He had used her first name so casually! Hey, he had used her first name! Did he know her name..? No, she never told him. Then how…Oh for Kami's sake.
And while she sat by the bar, Miroku was strolling along ambly, grinning at the many willing females. Why had she never noticed him before? He was a flirt. Which she found thoroughly annoying.
Miroku held out his hand for some girl and gave his most charming grin. "Would you like to dance?"
Fine, so maybe he could get out onto the dance floor. It'd be much easier to observe him that way anyhow.
The girl giggled and nodded. Sango rolled her eyes. Miroku pulled her up, smoothly swung her around, and sat down in her seat. He smiled. "Dance."
Sango raised her eyebrow. She wouldn't actually go along with that. Would she…?
The girl merely giggled again and sat on Miroku's lap. Sango twitched. This was getting to be really annoying. And distracting.
He glanced in her direction, caught her eyes, then returned to the girl on his lap and began lavishing attention upon her. Did he just…? Rage began seeping through Sango's veins. He had! That jerk! Who did he think he was, trying to make her jealous? Like she would be jealous over someone like that sukebe. The nerve of that-
"Hey, is this seat taken?"
Sango blinked as she realized a handsome young man had asked her something. "Not yet..."
The man smiled. "Do you care?" He had very dark inky hair with messy bangs, the rest pulled back into a long ponytail. Sharp blue eyes looked as her expectantly.
Sango shook her head. "Not really." She glanced back in Miroku's direction. Was it her imagination, or had he lost some of his energy?
Sango looked back at the man and smiled. A gentleman. "What's your name woman?"
Woman…? Sango's mind raced for a realistic fake name. "Sango. Hayami Sango."
"Nice name Sango."
Sango smiled. "Thank you."
The man grinned boyishly. "I'm Fukashigi Kouga. A little new around here. I'm the bouncer here too."
Sango nodded slowly, still distracted by Miroku. Kouga followed the path her eyes made and smirked. "Your boy?"
Sango blinked and looked at Kouga. "No. I don't have a 'boy'."
Kouga gave a wolfish grin. "Really."
"Yeah…" Sango narrowed her eyebrows slightly. Kouga…where had she heard that name before..? It sounded fairly familiar, that in itself odd since he said he was new, but she couldn't place it. "What do you do?"
Kouga raised his eyebrow. "I'm the bouncer…"
"Did you already say that?" He nodded. "Oh…sorry."
"So hey, you wanna dance? My break's not over for another 10 minutes.
Sango groaned inwardly. This was going to be some night...
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Author's NOTEs: Ahh, sorry about the wait. But I made this chapter longer. I hope you liked it. (I did :P). Fun encounters, don't you think? Anywho, please review to let me know your opinions. What you would like to see more of and such. And what you liked of course ^_^. Thankies!
*Kitsunes are fox youkai in Asia. They are known for their mischief and tendency to play tricks on people. Shippou, in particular, uses leaves to transform his appearance to his liking. These spells can be used by others (I'm assuming).
* Harlem is Tokyo's "hippest hip-hop joint". It is a very trendy place to hang out or dance. The reason that it's called Harlem is because the club plays a lot of African music, which is incredibly popular in Japan now.
* For those unfamiliar with Japanese culture, holding hands is now just being accepted in public. Imagine the reaction of what Miroku is doing to Sango would get. However, this is a club centered around teens driven by hormones, so something like this wouldn't be ok, but no one would stop them. My reasoning. Hey, it works for the story, right?
SIDE NOTE: This has absolutely nothing (or very little) to do with the story, but I just feel like mentioning it. Isn't it adorable that Souta calls Inu Yasha "Inu no niichan"? I just still can't get over it (makes for a nifty song). And what makes it super cute is that it can be translated a couple ways. Dog brother or doggie bro or just Inu brother. Cute, huh? He refers to him like family. Cu~~ute!
Meanwhile, I did a lot more research on Tokyo, its habits and Shibuya. As it turns out, it seems I have made a lovely choice with Shibuya because it's quite a popular place, especially for girls in high school. Not to mention, the place sounds really interesting. They have all sorts of shops there that quite literally sell everything. The reason it's so popular is partly because Shibuya Center Street is a key transportation point where a number of subway and train stations are located. But it's a really nifty place for anyone.
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Sango sighed as she walked out of the elevator into the deserted lobby of Kara no Tsuki Corp. It had been a long day and she had turned up virtually nothing she needed on that idiot following Sesshomaru around. Supposedly, he was 27 years old, had graduated from the University of Tokyo, and had a perfect list of recommendations.
So his application said.
His application also said his name was Hayami Miroku. Sango narrowed her eyebrows in concentration as she walked past the elevators. But she couldn't find a thing on a Hayami Miroku underground. There was a Miroku floating around though.
"Hello beautiful."
But that was only on this building's computers. These carried next to nothing compared to her computer. She'd have to do a lot of research tonight into that name and see if some pictures went along with it. She rolled her eyes. To calm a youkai of all things.
"Excuse me?"
Sango blinked. Well speak of the devil. She smiled. "Yes?"
Miroku grinned. "Have I seen you here before?"
"Maybe. I recently began working for Hayaoki Sesshomaru. Do you know him?"
Miroku raised an eyebrow. "Well he is the owner."
Sango acted flustered. "Oh right. I seem to have forgotten that."
Miroku tilted his head and stopped in front of Sango.
If he was looking for something, he wouldn't find it. "Would you like to get a drink with me? I just got off work too."
…Nani? Well that was…forward. Sango forced a light smile. "Do you usually ask girls out when you don't know their names?"
Miroku leaned back a bit and smiled, then bowed. "I am Hayami Miroku."
Sango bowed. "My name is-"
Sango's eyes flew open in shock as she quickly stood back up, quite flustered. Had he just…? Sango stood, frozen to her spot. But he…She didn't even react as Miroku shrugged and walked around her towards the revolving doors. He…he had! Sango turned to watch Miroku leave. That…that…sukebe! Utter disbelief ran through her mind. That sukebe had just felt her up!
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Inu Yasha heaved a sigh into the cold night air as he slowly walked down the sidewalk of a deserted street. He had removed any kitsune spells covering his hanyou appearance and walked comfortably enough. Despite physical ease, frustration couldn't even begin to describe his mental state. Kikyou hadn't even spoken a word to him today. Lucky the two had dialogue together, or he might've forgotten what her voice sounded like. Not to mention Jakotsu didn't leave him alone today. At all. He didn't even have a chance to sneak out and relax for an hour. Jerks.
He slowed down when he realized he was walking past the entrance to a shrine. He stopped in front of the large set of stairs leading up to the entrance arch. At night, the place was eerily quiet. Maybe no one would notice him if he found a quiet place to sit around there. Hell, the shrine master might not even be there. Before his mind could come up with any arguments, Inu Yasha took the one leap necessary for him to be at the top of the stairs. He found himself facing a fairly large courtyard. There was a well house to his left and straight ahead stood the well-kept shrine, home to whoever took care of the place. His eyes narrowed as they fell upon an enormous tree. It seemed very odd and familiar to him. He walked a bit closer to it and read the little sign in front.
The Goshinboku Tree. Said to be centuries old. Well into the Sengoku Era. Inu Yasha looked to the top of the massive tree. Well it was big enough. It is said that there was once a youkai fastened to it, unable to move. Inu Yasha snorted. Like that was possible.
A twig snapped nearby and Inu Yasha's ears twitched in its direction.
"Who's there?" Kagome peered into the darkness surrounding her Goshinboku tree. "I could've sworn I sensed something…"
Inu Yasha held his breath. A second more and he would've been caught. He gripped the branch of the large tree he sat on. When was the last time he sat in a tree? His ears caught her mumbling something under her breath, though he couldn't catch the words. She sounded familiar. He peered through the branches. Her face was obscured by her bangs. Damn. After a moment of looking around, the girl sighed. "I don't suppose someone would answer."
Inu Yasha grinned. If only she knew…
A phone ringing from inside the house caught her attention and she reluctantly ran home to answer it. Inu Yasha leaned back against the trunk and settled his legs comfortably on the wide branch. Maybe he would spend the night here. Sesshomaru would never miss him. With a wry grin, he added another thought. Neither would Kikyou.
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Miroku hummed lightly as he towel-dried his hair. Today had been interesting. So far. But it was already 10:30 and he still wanted to get a few hours in Harlem. A simply perfect place for him. He was respected, relaxed and confident there. Not that he wasn't in most places, but there was something significant about Harlem.
His thoughts wandered to the woman he had met earlier in the evening. Specially the one that worked for Sesshomaru. He had noticed her a little while back, but hadn't had time to confront her. He was glad he did. She seemed to be the type that responded well to his attentions. In his tastes. She wasn't as…willing as the others, making her something of a game. A challenge. He grinned. Something to look forward to.
After getting dressed, he made one last check in the mirror. Maybe he would see her at Harlem. Give him something else to like about the place.
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"And after that whole day, some jackass decides to feel me up."
"Nani?? Sango-chan, you let someone do that?"
Sango rolled her eyes and let out a breath of irritation at the thought. "It's not like I wanted it to happen. I didn't really expect it. I mean, not that we really were in a crowded place, but we were in public."
"I thought you said the lobby was deserted."
Sango sighed. "Kagome-chan…"
Kagome pouted. "Well you did. So who is he?"
"Some guy that works for Hayaoki Sesshomaru."
"What's his name?"
Sango hesitated. Well, there was no harm in telling the first name, right? "It was something Miroku. I can't really remember his last name."
Kagome rolled her eyes. Sango never forgot last names. "Miroku? Does he have violet eyes?"
Sango narrowed her eyes in confusion. "What? Yeah…how did you…?"
"There's a guy that goes to Harlem* a lot. You know that club I go to? His name is Miroku too and he seems to have the same habit." Kagome paused and waited for an answer. Nothing... "Why don't we go to Harlem tonight? He always goes on Fridays."
"What?? You think I ever want to see that hentai again? Ha!"
Kagome stifled a laugh. It would only serve to further Sango's anger. "I was just thinking you could do something mean to him there."
"Kagome-chan?"
"Well, just to pay him back, you know?"
Well, if Kagome suggested revenge, then you knew it had to happen. "Did you have anything in mind?"
Inu Yasha leaned a bit further down on the roof to listen to the phone conversation. He was surprised to find out that this was the same girl from the grocery store this morning. He looked around the room. None of those kids they had mentioned in the store. And it seemed she lived alone. With the exception of that boy that sat eating at the kitchen table. From what he gathered, the boy, Souta, was her brother. He looked back at Kagome. What was that habit she said this Miroku had? He stared at her a bit. She didn't look as much like Kikyou as he had thought at first. Much more…vibrant? Definitely not as angry. Even when she was angry. Maybe she would be nice to meet. Somehow. Maybe it was the blood rushing to his head as he hung upside down from the roof. Who knew?
Suddenly, the boy looked in his direction and quickly stood up. Inu Yasha scrambled back up to the roof. Had he seen him? That couldn't help Inu Yasha's situation any. The boy tentatively stepped outside, completely silent. Turning to look inside once, the boy stared up at the roof. "Are you hungry? We won't tell anyone."
Now Inu Yasha was just more confused than anything. But he stayed rooted to his seat, out of sight.
"If you are, just let me know. I can leave some food for you if you'd like." The boy stood a moment longer waiting for an answer, then headed back inside.
Slowly, Inu Yasha crept back down to the edge of the roof. Kagome's voice filtered back to him. "Look, I'm going to Harlem tonight anyway. Why don't you meet me there around 10:30, okay? Then we can figure something out."
Sango sighed. "Fine…I'll go dressed."
Kagome smiled brightly. "Good! Ja ne Sango-chan!"
"Ja."
Kagome sighed heavily. Sometimes Sango was really hard to take care of.
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Rin stared at herself in the mirror and sighed. She looked fantastic for a night out. But no one to spend that night with. Well, she would meet someone tonight. At Harlem. She grinned. Whether they liked it or not! She walked to the little kitchen of her tiny apartment. It was all she could afford really. Still, it was nicer than that orphanage. Anything was nicer than that place…
Rin shook her head. No point in thinking bad thoughts. With a resolved smile, Rin walked to her door. Tonight was her night. She would meet a nice man and live happily ever after. Maybe it was a little idealistic, but…but so what? Her dream had to start somewhere. She made sure to lock her door and walked towards the stairs. Sesshomaru-sama had helped her with a nice job. He was a very nice man really. Lots of people seemed afraid of him though. Especially that Jaken. But he was very nice to her. Almost too nice sometimes. Oh well, never turn down a gift like that.
Did Sesshomaru-sama ever go out? He didn't seem to have much fun. She would have to take care of that.
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Kagome rushed down the narrow street that was her shortcut to Harlem. Sango was going to kill her! She was already 10 minutes late because she couldn't catch a taxi. The next bus wouldn't be for another half hour and she was LATE! Mou…
Before she knew what happened, Kagome was face to face with the cold pavement. Pain shot through the nerves in her legs and chest. She was surrounded by large shadows.
"Hey girlie."
"Where you running Onee-chan?"
Her veins turned to ice as her eyes darted about. There were at least four, no, five guys around her. One of them had tripped her. One grabbed for her arm and roughly pulled her up. "Looking for some fun?"
Kagome's eyes went wide in terror. Everything in her body suddenly went stiff and numb at the same time. Sharp pricks spread over her skin. One shoved her against the wall. Another pulled at her top. Another her skirt. Kagome screamed and desperately clung to her clothes. Someone slapped her. Blood trickled down from her lip. The top was torn off. Kagome screamed again. She barely heard the laughter in the back of her head. The sick laughter that made her insides turn. She was going to throw up. Her skirt was torn, clinging lightly to her hips.
She heard a loud crack and the laughter turned to shouts. Tears ran down her cheeks. A sick thud hit the ground. Another muffled pound. The sound of tearing clothing. Footsteps running away. And then silence.
Utter and complete silence.
Save for her ragged breathing.
She slowly opened her eyes, cowering against the wall. The dark alley allowed her only the sight of a form standing near her, his back to her. He hesitantly turned towards her after a moment, amber eyes reflecting in the darkness. "Are you…?"
Kagome nodded slowly. "I…" She paused, her breath shaky, and moved towards him in tears. "Thank you!"
He took a step towards her and held her shoulders. "You should go home."
Kagome nodded again.
"Are you far from here?"
"A little."
"Do you want me to take you home?"
Kagome nodded, hesitantly stepping forward again. Instantly, her knees locked and she tumbled to the ground. He quickly stepped forward and pulled her up. "Get on my back. You can't walk."
Kagome stared into the amber eyes. The only things she could see in the darkness. "Ok…"
Though gracelessly done, Kagome pulled herself onto his back and he adjusted her weight, pulling her legs up a bit with his hands. After they got out of the alley, he continued walking down the dimly lit street. His hair was white. Was that possible? It was probably just the lighting. Her head suddenly felt heavy and she laid it on his shoulder. She sighed. His scent was so comforting. The body heat from his back absorbed her somehow and made her forget. Eyelids slowly fell until the warmth surrounding her was the only thing she knew existed.
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Rin tucked her hair back in to place as she quickly hopped off the trolley. She set a brisk walk to Harlem, stepping lightly. She hoped her outfit would help her catch some eyes. She had been saving money for it for a while now. Her new job from Sesshomaru-sama definitely sped things up for her. The skirt was dark red and long with slits on each side reaching her thighs. It was so fun to walk in! And the top was a deep red and so sparkly! Even her shoes were a sparkling red to match. Rin was very happy as she stood outside the entrance to Harlem.
She easily walked past the bouncer, who saw it fit to let her pass. He was awfully lean for a bouncer though. His name tag said Fukashigi Kouga. He gave her a nice smile as she passed and all else was forgotten. Rin quickly made her way over to the bar to order a drink. And hopefully meet someone to dance with.
"What'll it be?"
She smiled. The bartender was a girl. She looked new. "Nothing too strong. Rum and Coke. On the rocks." The girl nodded. Rin decided she was very pretty. Her eyes were the strangest shade. Almost red. They sparkled in the flares of light that jumped throughout the main room.
Movement to her right caught her eye. How lucky! A very handsome boy was standing next to her, alone. "Kagura, give me a scotch."
The bartender nodded. Kagura? What a pretty name. Rin looked back at the boy and frowned slightly. He seemed so…sad.
"Hello." Rin extended her hand. "I'm Hazumi Rin."
The boy looked up, slightly startled. "H-hello."
There was a pause in the conversation.
Luckily, it was quickly broken when Kagura passed the two of them their drinks. He nodded to Kagura and hesitantly turned back to Rin. "I…I'm Kohaku…" He was so quiet she barely heard him.
Rin smiled brightly. "Okay. You call me Rin then, ok?"
He nodded slowly.
"Good." She picked up her drink and grabbed Kohaku's hand, tugging him forward. "Let's go have fun."
Kohaku could only nod dumbly and stumble after Rin as she pulled them to a table to set their drinks down. After doing so, she once again grabbed his hand and pulled him to the dance floor; thankfully, he had regained most of his composure by then.
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Sango sighed in frustration as she leaned back to prop her elbows on the end of the bar. Inside the club's dark main room, clouds of cigarette smoke swirled and blue stardust whirled about a throng of dancing people. She had agreed to go with Kagome to Harlem for a little relaxing. However, it seemed that she was doing this alone. She was 20 minutes late.
Another sigh escaped her lips. If she wasn't here in another 10 minutes she was leaving.
A squeal from several girls caught her attention and Sango looked up to see Miroku enter the room. Sango's jaw nearly dropped. He was wearing a pair of black slacks and a violet shirt that clung to his frame. The only three buttons were left unbuttoned. His hair was slightly messy, but looked nice pulled back in that ponytail. And he looked amazing. A smile crept onto her face. He did know how to dress. Sango shook her head. What was she thinking? Well, either way, she wouldn't let this evening be a waste. Might as well observe him.
Miroku walked towards her with a languid pace, his eyes freely roaming her figure, and gave Sango a charming grin, almost lop-sided. "Hello."
Sango struggled to keep a blush from burning her cheeks from his perusal. Though her dress did not reveal as much as many of the other female clubbers, she had dressed so that she fit in. Her form-fitting Chinese dress with an African print seemed to be attracting Miroku. Or was it the slit that nearly reached her hip? The blush continued rising. How old was she? What was wrong with her anyway? She lifted her chin in the air and looked him straight in the eyes. "You're not welcome."
"You're stunning."
Sango opened her mouth to say something, expecting some silly retort from him, but nothing came after his compliment. This idiot managed to push the right buttons to embarrass her. Sango looked off towards the dance floor for a distraction.
"Shall we?"
Sango raised her eyebrow and slowly looked back at him. "Shall we what?"
"Dance! We are in a club, aren't we?"
Sango rolled her eyes. "Last time we were close, you felt me up."
"So?"
Sango narrowed her eyes in confusion. So? What the hell? Nothing to say, again. Well, it would be the easiest way to observe him since he already knew she was here. In fact…he had made a beeline to her. But she really didn't want to get close to him. There was something of a trust issue here that he was pushing. "Maybe later."
Miroku smiled. "I'll hold you to that."
Sango merely looked back to the dance floor. Somehow she knew he would. If he wouldn't get distracted.
A sudden unexpected whisper in her ear sent a shiver up the back of her neck. "What do you suggest we do until then?"
Sango's eyes widened. She was staring directly at the crook of his neck and she found tingles spreading over her neck every time he breathed with his arms on either side of her. She harshly whispered an answer. "It was your idea in the first place. You should know." She regretted the words the moment they left her mouth and before he could make his own suggestion, she added, "I don't even know you. We don't need to do anything together."
Miroku feigned a hurt tone. "But there aren't any seats on the other side of the room."
Sango couldn't think. It was very difficult to breathe considering Miroku hadn't budged from his position leaning over her, his cheek at times brushing against hers, his other arm trapping her between his arms, his bangs tickling her ear. She felt her heart pounding in her chest. If they hadn't been in such a club, this would have already been noticed. And even this* was something for Harlem. Sango felt like she would faint. "You need to…" She swallowed as Miroku came even closer, leaning on the bar behind her with his hands.
"Yes?"
"Need to…" He was so close, she could smell his cologne. Which was rather pleasant actually. He was incredibly attractive and distracting. Maybe she should give in...
Wait, did she just think that? Oh Kami… "Go over there." Miroku pulled back enough so that he could look at her. She held a firm gaze.
Miroku merely shrugged and returned to a relaxed standing position with a subtle smirk tugging at his lips. "It's been nice talking with you Sango." He winked and wandered over to the other side of the room. All she could really was stare after him. She hadn't allowed herself to get into a position like that in a long time. Especially not in public. He had made her so…well, vulnerable. How had he done that? Wasn't she trained to stay out of situations like that? And hey wait! He had used her first name so casually! Hey, he had used her first name! Did he know her name..? No, she never told him. Then how…Oh for Kami's sake.
And while she sat by the bar, Miroku was strolling along ambly, grinning at the many willing females. Why had she never noticed him before? He was a flirt. Which she found thoroughly annoying.
Miroku held out his hand for some girl and gave his most charming grin. "Would you like to dance?"
Fine, so maybe he could get out onto the dance floor. It'd be much easier to observe him that way anyhow.
The girl giggled and nodded. Sango rolled her eyes. Miroku pulled her up, smoothly swung her around, and sat down in her seat. He smiled. "Dance."
Sango raised her eyebrow. She wouldn't actually go along with that. Would she…?
The girl merely giggled again and sat on Miroku's lap. Sango twitched. This was getting to be really annoying. And distracting.
He glanced in her direction, caught her eyes, then returned to the girl on his lap and began lavishing attention upon her. Did he just…? Rage began seeping through Sango's veins. He had! That jerk! Who did he think he was, trying to make her jealous? Like she would be jealous over someone like that sukebe. The nerve of that-
"Hey, is this seat taken?"
Sango blinked as she realized a handsome young man had asked her something. "Not yet..."
The man smiled. "Do you care?" He had very dark inky hair with messy bangs, the rest pulled back into a long ponytail. Sharp blue eyes looked as her expectantly.
Sango shook her head. "Not really." She glanced back in Miroku's direction. Was it her imagination, or had he lost some of his energy?
Sango looked back at the man and smiled. A gentleman. "What's your name woman?"
Woman…? Sango's mind raced for a realistic fake name. "Sango. Hayami Sango."
"Nice name Sango."
Sango smiled. "Thank you."
The man grinned boyishly. "I'm Fukashigi Kouga. A little new around here. I'm the bouncer here too."
Sango nodded slowly, still distracted by Miroku. Kouga followed the path her eyes made and smirked. "Your boy?"
Sango blinked and looked at Kouga. "No. I don't have a 'boy'."
Kouga gave a wolfish grin. "Really."
"Yeah…" Sango narrowed her eyebrows slightly. Kouga…where had she heard that name before..? It sounded fairly familiar, that in itself odd since he said he was new, but she couldn't place it. "What do you do?"
Kouga raised his eyebrow. "I'm the bouncer…"
"Did you already say that?" He nodded. "Oh…sorry."
"So hey, you wanna dance? My break's not over for another 10 minutes.
Sango groaned inwardly. This was going to be some night...
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Author's NOTEs: Ahh, sorry about the wait. But I made this chapter longer. I hope you liked it. (I did :P). Fun encounters, don't you think? Anywho, please review to let me know your opinions. What you would like to see more of and such. And what you liked of course ^_^. Thankies!
*Kitsunes are fox youkai in Asia. They are known for their mischief and tendency to play tricks on people. Shippou, in particular, uses leaves to transform his appearance to his liking. These spells can be used by others (I'm assuming).
* Harlem is Tokyo's "hippest hip-hop joint". It is a very trendy place to hang out or dance. The reason that it's called Harlem is because the club plays a lot of African music, which is incredibly popular in Japan now.
* For those unfamiliar with Japanese culture, holding hands is now just being accepted in public. Imagine the reaction of what Miroku is doing to Sango would get. However, this is a club centered around teens driven by hormones, so something like this wouldn't be ok, but no one would stop them. My reasoning. Hey, it works for the story, right?
