Sing a Song with Me
Cherry Mecha
Chapter 11: Change the World
~*~*~
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or the characters from it. I also don't own the songs I mention. Heh.
~*~*~
A/N: Voila! The last (or second to last) chapter! I'm still not sure because I could add one more chapter if I feel it necessary. Bear with me.
Anyway, notice the title. Yup, does that answer your questions about the song? Oop. Don't want to spoil it! Enjoy reading! Review as always!
~*~*~
Inuyasha watched from a distance as Kagome leaned against the doorframe and cried. He panicked. Why was she crying? Was it because of him? What did he do wrong, now?
Then his spirits sank. What if she didn't accept the gift? He held his breath as he waited for her reaction.
Kagome wiped away her tears and closed the guitar case. Clutching the card and rose in one hand, she gently lifted up the case and brought it inside. Inuyasha breathed again.
In a better mood than when he arrived, Inuyasha strolled down the street. Mission accomplished...but did that mean that she forgave him?
~*~*~
Sango decided that she would walk around the park for a while. She looked around without actually seeing anything. Kagome's incident bugged her. It was already dark and she wasn't paying attention to the path she was taking nor the people she was walking into. Mumbling another quick apology, she continued along.
Sango wove around the trees and walked into something solid. Seeing that she walked into yet another man's back, she bowed and apologized.
"I'm sorry sir. I was not paying attention to where I was going. Please forgive me," Sango looked up as the man turned around. Her eyes widened.
"Miroku? What are you doing here?"
Miroku looked equally surprised to see her, even if it was only for a moment. His startled expression settled into his usual gentle one.
"Sango! It's nice to see you, as always. I'm taking a walk to relieve my nerves. Care to join me?" Sango shrugged and they resumed walking. Miroku glanced over and noticed the troubled look in her eyes.
"Is the memory of Kikyou's visit plaguing you too?"
Sango didn't bother to look surprised. It had been on everyone's mind. Dumbly, she nodded.
"I don't understand what happened. Inuyasha seemed happy with Kagome and then he cared for Kikyou."
"Yes. Strange, isn't it? I never thought Inuyasha was capable of double- timing."
Sango snorted.
"Yeah. It's a wonder that he only picked it up from you, now."
"You know, I would never do that!" Miroku had a mischievous glint in his eye. Sango stopped walking.
"I would really like to believe that."
Miroku was about to make a wisecrack comment but stopped when he realized that she was serious. He furrowed his brow.
"Then why can't you?"
"Kami Miroku! You act like you really like me and then twenty minutes later, you're off hitting on some other girl! How can I be sure that you're serious? My heart is fragile, as is. I don't think I can take any more." Sango looked desperately into his confused eyes. Not finding what she wanted, she walked off, sighing, leaving Miroku there alone.
Miroku stared at the spot where Sango stood, still a little in shock of what she said. When her words sank in, his eyes reflected his pain. It hurt more than any whack upside the head ever had. He knew she was right. It was his fault things were like this.
"But I'm serious, Sango. I can be."
~*~*~
The next morning, a knock came from Inuyasha and Miroku's apartment. Miroku answered the door and smiled.
"Hello Sango."
She smiled back, much to Miroku's relief. Sango acted like yesterday never happened but he could tell from her eyes that she was still hurt. Covering it up, she looked around.
"So where is everyone? Wasn't this a band meeting?"
"Kagome's on her way over. Shippo had something to do," Miroku sighed. "And Inuyasha isn't even up yet. Speaking of which, I should probably go wake him."
Miroku made his way over to Inuyasha's room as Sango made herself comfortable on the couch. Minutes later, she heard Inuyasha's annoyed growls as Miroku fruitlessly tried to get him up.
"Five more minutes..." Inuyasha mumbled. Miroku's patience was wearing thin.
He walked into the kitchen and filled a glass up with water and returned to the room. A minute later a splash and a yelp errupted from the room. Sango tried not to laugh. Sounds like Inuyasha finally woke up.
After a few minutes, and an argument about basic human rights, the three of them were settled in the living room. Sango and Miroku looked expectantly at Inuyasha. With his wonderful ability to pick up subtle hints, Inuyasha didn't notice. Sighing in exasperation, Sango spoke.
"Well?"
"Well what?"
"What happened with Kikyou?"
"Oh. Nothing."
"It didn't look like nothing to me." Miroku grinned. Sango glared at him but didn't slap him this time.
"Whatever. What happened was I was sitting there waiting to give Kagome her present and..."
~*~*~
Kagome huffed as she climbed the stairs to Inuyasha's apartment. She didn't remember so many steps! She was a little grateful, though. It gave her some time to think. She had come with her heart full of forgiveness for Inuyasha. She had accepted his apology.
Kagome approached their door and was about to knock when she heard voices inside. This one sounded like Inuyasha's.
"...so then she hugged me. She seemed so desperate. I felt like I owed her something, like it was my fault I allowed her to leave."
Kagome stepped back from the door, tears threatening to fall. She thought that Inuyasha was sorry for what he did but it seemed that he apologized for her walking in on them instead. Kagome didn't feel angry. No, she couldn't now. Then and there, she made a decision. Holding back the tears she pushed the door open, mind set.
At first, they all just stared at her, worried that she would be hurt by their conversation, if she heard at all. When she smiled, they all let out a breath of relief. Sango grinned.
"Hey! Did you hear? We have to perform at another gig in a week! Isn't that great?"
Kagome's smile faltered slightly but she nodded anyway. This wasn't making it any easier. She took a deep breath.
"Guys, I'm quitting the Shikon no Tama."
Everyone face-faulted. Inuyasha got his voice back first.
"You're not going to Naraku, are you?"
"No. Who's he?"
Everyone let out a sigh of relief. But the tension quickly returned. Sango rushed up to her friend and grabbed her by the shoulders.
"Is anything wrong?" She asked in a low tone, "Inuyasha DID apologize, right?" Kagome gave her friend a reassuring smile and nodded.
"It has nothing to do with Inuyasha," Kagome lied. "I'm leaving so that you can finish unfinished business."
Sango and Miroku caught on first and glared at Inuyasha. He, however, was oblivious to the cold stares he was getting, as well as Kagome's last comment.
"But I thought you were happy here with us! And what about the concert?"
"I am happy here, Inuyasha," Kagome smiled sadly, "And I would never leave you guys hanging. I'm going to do the concert with you guys before I leave. That way, I can announce it to the audience and make it official."
Inuyasha understood everything Kagome had said but couldn't help but get the feeling that he was missing something. He wanted to know what it was.
"Kagome? Could I speak to you alone?"
Kagome nodded. They stepped out into the hallway.
"There's something you're not telling me," Inuyasha stated. "Did you get the gift and apology? I meant to do it in person but I didn't think that you wanted to see me."
"No. It's not that. I got the gift, Inuyasha. It's beautiful," She smiled sadly at him, "And I do forgive you."
"So what is it? You didn't hear our conversation before you walked in by any chance, did you?"
Kagome nodded and refused to look up. Inuyasha felt his stomach drop. Everything clicked. Unfinished business. He mentally slapped himself for being such an idiot, but now was not the time to regret. He needed to get Kagome to stay.
"But that's different. I didn't mean that you should-..."
"No, it's okay Inuyasha." Kagome cut him off. "I had wanted to leave for a while." Inuyasha saw through the lie. He began to panic again. He could lose their lead singer, and his love, if he wasn't careful.
"Is there anything that I can do to make you stay?"
Kagome smiled at his effort. It sounded so tempting, but she knew that she would just get hurt again. Biting back tears, she shook her head.
Inuyasha felt like punching his fist through the wall. She's really going to leave, and it was because of him.
~*~*~
As soon as Shippo heard the news next day at their rehearsal, he began to wail. He clung to Kagome's arm and refused to let go.
"But you can't leave!"
"Shippo, it won't be that bad. I'll still be around. You can come visit me if you want."
"Fine," he agreed a little reluctantly with a pout. He finally let go of her arm. "You'd better not forget about me!"
"I'd never forget about you guys." Kagome rumpled his hair. This made Shippo break out into a big smile. And rehearsal resumed.
~*~*~
For the first few days, they thought that Kagome wasn't being serious and that perhaps they could coax her out of her decision. However, she stood firm. Coming home from a short rehearsal three days before the concert, Inuyasha began to lose hope. Once settled in their living room, Inuyasha turned to his last resort.
"Miroku? Do you think that there is anything I can do to make Kagome change her mind?"
"I'm not quite so sure. I'd love to help but I'm also in a bit of a rut with Sango. She doesn't believe that I have the loyalty for a relationship."
"Who could blame her?" Inuyasha snorted.
"That's why I have to prove it to her."
"And Kagome seems to think that I'll run off with Kikyou."
The two guys sat in silence for a while. Suddenly, a light bulb went off in Miroku's head.
"Inuyasha, hand me a pad of paper and a pen."
Inuyasha looked questioningly at him but obliged. Miroku scribbled furiously. After fifteen minutes, he handed his work over proudly to Inuyasha. He read it and a grin began to form on his face.
"Do you think you could do it?" Miroku asked him, a little worried.
"I've never done anything like this before," Inuyasha admitted, "But how hard can it be? I'll be in my room if you need me." He took the pad and his guitar as he exited the room.
~*~*~
After two hours, Inuyasha emerged from his room. To say he looked ecstatic would be an understatement. Miroku had long ago fell asleep on the couch.
"Miroku!" Inuyasha shook his friend's shoulder. Miroku sat up with a start. Seeing it was Inuyasha, he grinned.
"Did you do it?"
"Yup." Inuyasha couldn't stop smiling. If possible, Miroku's grin got bigger.
"Let's see it."
Inuyasha handed him the sheets of paper. Several things had been scribbled out and rewritten but it was readable. Miroku scanned the sheets and frowned slightly.
"There's a third part." He stated.
"Well, it wouldn't be good with just the two of us."
"True. But who else could do it?"
Inuyasha thought for a while. He hadn't considered it before. Suddenly, he came upon a realization, but he didn't like it much. He decided it was their only choice and got the phone.
~*~*~
"Hello?" Sesshoumaru spoke into the phone. He recognized the voice on the other line immediately.
"Why how nice of you to call."
The voice on the other line muttered some profanities, which Sesshoumaru ignored.
"Is there a reason you have decided to call me?" Sesshoumaru's voice was tinted with a bit of impatience. The voice said something quick and incoherent. Sesshoumaru, however, understood every word.
"Why don't you get that other girl to do it?"
The voice explained why, not very nicely, however.
"I will do this favor for you and your little friend. Come over immediately." He hung up.
~*~*~
"I cannot believe I just asked my brother for help." Inuyasha stared at the phone in his hand.
"Well let's not waste time." Miroku began to get their stuff together, "Let's go." Inuyasha nodded and headed out the door to Sesshoumaru's house.
Once there, the toad thing 'greeted' them again. Pushing the midget away with his foot, Inuyasha walked into the basement of the house with Miroku close behind.
~*~*~
Three hours later, Inuyasha and Miroku emerged from Sesshoumaru's mansion.
"Same time again tomorrow. Good-bye." Sesshoumaru closed the door after them.
Heading out onto the street, the guys fell contentedly silent. They were very proud of themselves for their idea. Suddenly, Inuyasha had a thought. "Hey, Miroku? Is three days going to be enough?"
Miroku thought for a minute.
"Let's hope so."
~*~*~
As soon as rehearsal was over the day after, Inuyasha and Miroku bounded out of the well house, yelling their good-byes over their shoulders. Kagome quirked an eyebrow.
"Sango? Is it just me or are they being strange?"
"They're guys. Who knows what they're up to?"
"True." Kagome finished helping Sango and Shippo pack.
~*~*~
The next two rehearsals were ended the same way. The guys seemed zoned out and rushed out the door as soon as rehearsal was over. Sango and Kagome began to get suspicious. Were they seeing other girls? Kagome thought Inuyasha was seeing Kikyou while Sango thought that Miroku was dating something with a butt and a chest. They began to get more and more worried, though both wouldn't admit it.
The boys didn't notice, though. They were wrapped up in their little project. Shippo was pretty much out of it. He was still sad that Kagome was leaving.
Somehow, the day of the concert had crept up on them. They made their way to the concert site: Inuyasha and Miroku fidgeting and nervous, Kagome, Sango and Shippo lagging behind.
At the site of the concert, the band didn't have time to rehearse. They were each rushed off into dressing rooms.
~*~*~
"Like hi!" A girl waved to Sango and Kagome as soon as they entered their dressing room, "Like, remember me? It's me! Like Yura!"
The girls greeted her half-heartedly due to their depression. Yura frowned.
"Like boy problems?" Yura asked, concerned. Then her face lighted up and she put her hands together. "Like, you know like what we need? LIKE GIRL TALK!" She pulled Sango into the chair on her left and Kagome onto the couch. They weren't sure about sharing their personal lives with Yura at first but soon they found themselves rambling.
"And he's such a lecher!" Sango said infuriated "He could be out with another girl! And then he acts like he likes me!"
Yura gave a sympathetic nod and continued to adjust Sango's shirt. She wore a red tie with a white tank and an unbuttoned white dress shirt over it. She wore baggy black pants with red flames sprouting from the bottom. A chain hung at her side. Yura surveyed her work.
"Like, he like needs to totally like prove to you that he likes you if like he ever wants to get with you."
Sango nodded as she sat down on the couch and Kagome stood up. Yura held up a black top layered over a red one with flared sleeves that went well past her hands. The black top had strings of rhinestones, sewn on in such a way that they created several multi-layered loops on Kagome's arms. Both shirts were cut off an inch above her belly button. She also held out a long black peasant skirt. Kagome took the clothes and went to try them on. After, Yura sat her down and began brushing her hair.
"Like it's your turn to like spill!"
"Okay. There's this guy that I like. He acted like he was really into me and then he goes and hugs his ex while I'm there!"
"Like harsh."
"I forgave him though. But the problem is that he still feels obliged to her. It's tying him down!"
"Like you should totally do something!"
"Yeah. I'm quitting the band because of him."
"Like you go girl!"
Kagome smiled at her reflection. Still, she couldn't help but think that she was making the wrong choice, but she was determined none the less.
Yura scrunched Kagome's hair and it was held back on one side with a studded comb. After re-examining both girls, Yura smiled and told them to "Like go kick some like male ass!" to put it exactly. Both girls walked into the hallway to find that the guys were already done.
Inuyasha and Miroku couldn't help but stare as the girls walked out. Inuyasha was wearing black leather pants and black button-up shirt with red designs, open. Miroku sported black jeans, white skin-tight T-shirt and a red button up shirt, unbuttoned, over it. The girls thought that they looked pretty gorgeous themselves, but would never admit it, especially now.
Finally breathing, Inuyasha asked Kagome a question that would confirm their project.
"Are you sure you still want to leave?"
Kagome hesitated but nodded. Inuyasha's face showed no emotion. Inside, he was glad that he would get a chance to change her mind. With that thought, they walked on stage.
~*~*~
They had gone through all of their songs without a single flaw. Inuyasha noticed that Kagome wasn't singing with her usual enthusiasm. As 'Every Heart' ended, Kagome took a deep breath for what was about to come.
"I just wanted to thank you for coming. I would like to announce that-..."
Inuyasha grabbed the mike away from her before she could continue.
"This concert isn't over yet!" Looking at the confused expression on Shippo, Kagome and Sango's faces, he couldn't help but grin. "We've got something special for you today! This is for Kagome and Sango from Miroku and me. Hopefully, this is enough to change your minds about both of us."
With that Inuyasha escorted Shippo, Sango and Kagome to the side of the stage. He took Kagome's place at the mike. Sesshoumaru came on stage and took Sango's place. He wore a black turtleneck sweater and pants and held a white bass guitar with a single design on it. Three hexagons were clumped together and outlined in red with a flower patter in each of them. Inuyasha tapped the beat on his foot and he and Miroku broke into song in unison as they played.
I want to change the world
Piercing through the gales, unafraid of anything,
Now I hold my courage and pieces of my smile
Change my mind
If we reach out to the soaring future
without losing our passion, we'll be able to shine,
It's wonderland
Kagome and Sango watched in awe. Inuyasha was singing on his own free will? Miroku was being serious? That's commitment. Shippo was happy seeing the look on Kagome's face. Maybe she won't leave now! Soon the instrumental was over and Miroku sang the next verse.
You've left something in the far reaches of the grey sky,
and you keep on searching
as you wander.
In the night when your heart shook, and I can't see tomorrow
I can't believe anything, and close my ears.
When I met you, I found my true place in life.
An innocent kindness is right here.
And so we awaken...
As they broke into the chorus again, Sango just stared at Miroku. He was doing this for her instead of running off to some busty girl. He really was serious about this relationship stuff, wasn't he?
I want to change the world
I won't hesitate again. If I can shape a future with you,
then I can fly anywhere.
Change my mind
I can spread my wings and fly towards the unknown future
without losing my passion.
It's wonderland
Kagome couldn't take her eyes off of Inuyasha. He was doing this for her. He had put his fear behind him to convince her to stay. He really wanted her to. Kagome felt tears welling up as Inuyasha began his verse and his own chorus.
We keep swimming the same world
until the day we reach our dreams.
All of us bear the same worries
When you stop and look, I'll be right here
gazing at you.
I want to change the world
If you accept my gaze as I watch over you
and don't let go of my hand, I can do anything.
Change my mind
I won't let you be alone. Everyone is here.
Let's pierce our way through whatever may happen.
It's wonderland
Miroku and Inuyasha glanced at the girls before going on. They had gotten the reaction they wanted. Exchanging glances, they broke into the final chorus, their voices stronger than ever.
I want to change the world
Piercing through the gales, unafraid of anything,
Now I hold my courage and pieces of my smile
Change my mind
If we reach out to the soaring future
without losing our passion, we'll be able to shine.
It's wonderland
With the last few chords, Inuyasha stepped back from the mike only to be glomped by Kagome. Inuyasha hugged her tightly and whispered into her ear.
"Leaving now?"
"Never" She whispered back.
A little distance away from them, Sango was hugging Miroku. For once, he didn't try to grope her. Now a question popped into his head. He thought he knew the answer but was afraid to ask.
"Do you think I can be serious?"
"Very." She hugged him tighter.
Sesshoumaru was standing off to the side, looking slightly amused. The amusement was gone when a certain hyper 8-year old hopped over to him.
"Now Kagome won't leave! And Sango is happy! And Miroku will stop groping girls! And Inuyasha-...well he's still a meanie. But now we can have more concerts! And see more people and-..." Shippo rattled on while jumping in circles around Sesshoumaru, who looked a little more than annoyed.
The two couples were completely unaware of this. As far as they knew, the world was perfect. They kept staring into each other's eyes until some guy from the audience yelled out, "Kiss!"
Both couples were more then glad to oblige.
~*~*~
a/n: I have decided that this is not going to be the last chapter. One more coming! I'm gonna end with something else. This was just going to be the last major thing happening in the story. Anyway, I'll thank everyone from chapter 9+ in the last chapter! I hope you've enjoyed up until now!
Cherry Mecha
Chapter 11: Change the World
~*~*~
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or the characters from it. I also don't own the songs I mention. Heh.
~*~*~
A/N: Voila! The last (or second to last) chapter! I'm still not sure because I could add one more chapter if I feel it necessary. Bear with me.
Anyway, notice the title. Yup, does that answer your questions about the song? Oop. Don't want to spoil it! Enjoy reading! Review as always!
~*~*~
Inuyasha watched from a distance as Kagome leaned against the doorframe and cried. He panicked. Why was she crying? Was it because of him? What did he do wrong, now?
Then his spirits sank. What if she didn't accept the gift? He held his breath as he waited for her reaction.
Kagome wiped away her tears and closed the guitar case. Clutching the card and rose in one hand, she gently lifted up the case and brought it inside. Inuyasha breathed again.
In a better mood than when he arrived, Inuyasha strolled down the street. Mission accomplished...but did that mean that she forgave him?
~*~*~
Sango decided that she would walk around the park for a while. She looked around without actually seeing anything. Kagome's incident bugged her. It was already dark and she wasn't paying attention to the path she was taking nor the people she was walking into. Mumbling another quick apology, she continued along.
Sango wove around the trees and walked into something solid. Seeing that she walked into yet another man's back, she bowed and apologized.
"I'm sorry sir. I was not paying attention to where I was going. Please forgive me," Sango looked up as the man turned around. Her eyes widened.
"Miroku? What are you doing here?"
Miroku looked equally surprised to see her, even if it was only for a moment. His startled expression settled into his usual gentle one.
"Sango! It's nice to see you, as always. I'm taking a walk to relieve my nerves. Care to join me?" Sango shrugged and they resumed walking. Miroku glanced over and noticed the troubled look in her eyes.
"Is the memory of Kikyou's visit plaguing you too?"
Sango didn't bother to look surprised. It had been on everyone's mind. Dumbly, she nodded.
"I don't understand what happened. Inuyasha seemed happy with Kagome and then he cared for Kikyou."
"Yes. Strange, isn't it? I never thought Inuyasha was capable of double- timing."
Sango snorted.
"Yeah. It's a wonder that he only picked it up from you, now."
"You know, I would never do that!" Miroku had a mischievous glint in his eye. Sango stopped walking.
"I would really like to believe that."
Miroku was about to make a wisecrack comment but stopped when he realized that she was serious. He furrowed his brow.
"Then why can't you?"
"Kami Miroku! You act like you really like me and then twenty minutes later, you're off hitting on some other girl! How can I be sure that you're serious? My heart is fragile, as is. I don't think I can take any more." Sango looked desperately into his confused eyes. Not finding what she wanted, she walked off, sighing, leaving Miroku there alone.
Miroku stared at the spot where Sango stood, still a little in shock of what she said. When her words sank in, his eyes reflected his pain. It hurt more than any whack upside the head ever had. He knew she was right. It was his fault things were like this.
"But I'm serious, Sango. I can be."
~*~*~
The next morning, a knock came from Inuyasha and Miroku's apartment. Miroku answered the door and smiled.
"Hello Sango."
She smiled back, much to Miroku's relief. Sango acted like yesterday never happened but he could tell from her eyes that she was still hurt. Covering it up, she looked around.
"So where is everyone? Wasn't this a band meeting?"
"Kagome's on her way over. Shippo had something to do," Miroku sighed. "And Inuyasha isn't even up yet. Speaking of which, I should probably go wake him."
Miroku made his way over to Inuyasha's room as Sango made herself comfortable on the couch. Minutes later, she heard Inuyasha's annoyed growls as Miroku fruitlessly tried to get him up.
"Five more minutes..." Inuyasha mumbled. Miroku's patience was wearing thin.
He walked into the kitchen and filled a glass up with water and returned to the room. A minute later a splash and a yelp errupted from the room. Sango tried not to laugh. Sounds like Inuyasha finally woke up.
After a few minutes, and an argument about basic human rights, the three of them were settled in the living room. Sango and Miroku looked expectantly at Inuyasha. With his wonderful ability to pick up subtle hints, Inuyasha didn't notice. Sighing in exasperation, Sango spoke.
"Well?"
"Well what?"
"What happened with Kikyou?"
"Oh. Nothing."
"It didn't look like nothing to me." Miroku grinned. Sango glared at him but didn't slap him this time.
"Whatever. What happened was I was sitting there waiting to give Kagome her present and..."
~*~*~
Kagome huffed as she climbed the stairs to Inuyasha's apartment. She didn't remember so many steps! She was a little grateful, though. It gave her some time to think. She had come with her heart full of forgiveness for Inuyasha. She had accepted his apology.
Kagome approached their door and was about to knock when she heard voices inside. This one sounded like Inuyasha's.
"...so then she hugged me. She seemed so desperate. I felt like I owed her something, like it was my fault I allowed her to leave."
Kagome stepped back from the door, tears threatening to fall. She thought that Inuyasha was sorry for what he did but it seemed that he apologized for her walking in on them instead. Kagome didn't feel angry. No, she couldn't now. Then and there, she made a decision. Holding back the tears she pushed the door open, mind set.
At first, they all just stared at her, worried that she would be hurt by their conversation, if she heard at all. When she smiled, they all let out a breath of relief. Sango grinned.
"Hey! Did you hear? We have to perform at another gig in a week! Isn't that great?"
Kagome's smile faltered slightly but she nodded anyway. This wasn't making it any easier. She took a deep breath.
"Guys, I'm quitting the Shikon no Tama."
Everyone face-faulted. Inuyasha got his voice back first.
"You're not going to Naraku, are you?"
"No. Who's he?"
Everyone let out a sigh of relief. But the tension quickly returned. Sango rushed up to her friend and grabbed her by the shoulders.
"Is anything wrong?" She asked in a low tone, "Inuyasha DID apologize, right?" Kagome gave her friend a reassuring smile and nodded.
"It has nothing to do with Inuyasha," Kagome lied. "I'm leaving so that you can finish unfinished business."
Sango and Miroku caught on first and glared at Inuyasha. He, however, was oblivious to the cold stares he was getting, as well as Kagome's last comment.
"But I thought you were happy here with us! And what about the concert?"
"I am happy here, Inuyasha," Kagome smiled sadly, "And I would never leave you guys hanging. I'm going to do the concert with you guys before I leave. That way, I can announce it to the audience and make it official."
Inuyasha understood everything Kagome had said but couldn't help but get the feeling that he was missing something. He wanted to know what it was.
"Kagome? Could I speak to you alone?"
Kagome nodded. They stepped out into the hallway.
"There's something you're not telling me," Inuyasha stated. "Did you get the gift and apology? I meant to do it in person but I didn't think that you wanted to see me."
"No. It's not that. I got the gift, Inuyasha. It's beautiful," She smiled sadly at him, "And I do forgive you."
"So what is it? You didn't hear our conversation before you walked in by any chance, did you?"
Kagome nodded and refused to look up. Inuyasha felt his stomach drop. Everything clicked. Unfinished business. He mentally slapped himself for being such an idiot, but now was not the time to regret. He needed to get Kagome to stay.
"But that's different. I didn't mean that you should-..."
"No, it's okay Inuyasha." Kagome cut him off. "I had wanted to leave for a while." Inuyasha saw through the lie. He began to panic again. He could lose their lead singer, and his love, if he wasn't careful.
"Is there anything that I can do to make you stay?"
Kagome smiled at his effort. It sounded so tempting, but she knew that she would just get hurt again. Biting back tears, she shook her head.
Inuyasha felt like punching his fist through the wall. She's really going to leave, and it was because of him.
~*~*~
As soon as Shippo heard the news next day at their rehearsal, he began to wail. He clung to Kagome's arm and refused to let go.
"But you can't leave!"
"Shippo, it won't be that bad. I'll still be around. You can come visit me if you want."
"Fine," he agreed a little reluctantly with a pout. He finally let go of her arm. "You'd better not forget about me!"
"I'd never forget about you guys." Kagome rumpled his hair. This made Shippo break out into a big smile. And rehearsal resumed.
~*~*~
For the first few days, they thought that Kagome wasn't being serious and that perhaps they could coax her out of her decision. However, she stood firm. Coming home from a short rehearsal three days before the concert, Inuyasha began to lose hope. Once settled in their living room, Inuyasha turned to his last resort.
"Miroku? Do you think that there is anything I can do to make Kagome change her mind?"
"I'm not quite so sure. I'd love to help but I'm also in a bit of a rut with Sango. She doesn't believe that I have the loyalty for a relationship."
"Who could blame her?" Inuyasha snorted.
"That's why I have to prove it to her."
"And Kagome seems to think that I'll run off with Kikyou."
The two guys sat in silence for a while. Suddenly, a light bulb went off in Miroku's head.
"Inuyasha, hand me a pad of paper and a pen."
Inuyasha looked questioningly at him but obliged. Miroku scribbled furiously. After fifteen minutes, he handed his work over proudly to Inuyasha. He read it and a grin began to form on his face.
"Do you think you could do it?" Miroku asked him, a little worried.
"I've never done anything like this before," Inuyasha admitted, "But how hard can it be? I'll be in my room if you need me." He took the pad and his guitar as he exited the room.
~*~*~
After two hours, Inuyasha emerged from his room. To say he looked ecstatic would be an understatement. Miroku had long ago fell asleep on the couch.
"Miroku!" Inuyasha shook his friend's shoulder. Miroku sat up with a start. Seeing it was Inuyasha, he grinned.
"Did you do it?"
"Yup." Inuyasha couldn't stop smiling. If possible, Miroku's grin got bigger.
"Let's see it."
Inuyasha handed him the sheets of paper. Several things had been scribbled out and rewritten but it was readable. Miroku scanned the sheets and frowned slightly.
"There's a third part." He stated.
"Well, it wouldn't be good with just the two of us."
"True. But who else could do it?"
Inuyasha thought for a while. He hadn't considered it before. Suddenly, he came upon a realization, but he didn't like it much. He decided it was their only choice and got the phone.
~*~*~
"Hello?" Sesshoumaru spoke into the phone. He recognized the voice on the other line immediately.
"Why how nice of you to call."
The voice on the other line muttered some profanities, which Sesshoumaru ignored.
"Is there a reason you have decided to call me?" Sesshoumaru's voice was tinted with a bit of impatience. The voice said something quick and incoherent. Sesshoumaru, however, understood every word.
"Why don't you get that other girl to do it?"
The voice explained why, not very nicely, however.
"I will do this favor for you and your little friend. Come over immediately." He hung up.
~*~*~
"I cannot believe I just asked my brother for help." Inuyasha stared at the phone in his hand.
"Well let's not waste time." Miroku began to get their stuff together, "Let's go." Inuyasha nodded and headed out the door to Sesshoumaru's house.
Once there, the toad thing 'greeted' them again. Pushing the midget away with his foot, Inuyasha walked into the basement of the house with Miroku close behind.
~*~*~
Three hours later, Inuyasha and Miroku emerged from Sesshoumaru's mansion.
"Same time again tomorrow. Good-bye." Sesshoumaru closed the door after them.
Heading out onto the street, the guys fell contentedly silent. They were very proud of themselves for their idea. Suddenly, Inuyasha had a thought. "Hey, Miroku? Is three days going to be enough?"
Miroku thought for a minute.
"Let's hope so."
~*~*~
As soon as rehearsal was over the day after, Inuyasha and Miroku bounded out of the well house, yelling their good-byes over their shoulders. Kagome quirked an eyebrow.
"Sango? Is it just me or are they being strange?"
"They're guys. Who knows what they're up to?"
"True." Kagome finished helping Sango and Shippo pack.
~*~*~
The next two rehearsals were ended the same way. The guys seemed zoned out and rushed out the door as soon as rehearsal was over. Sango and Kagome began to get suspicious. Were they seeing other girls? Kagome thought Inuyasha was seeing Kikyou while Sango thought that Miroku was dating something with a butt and a chest. They began to get more and more worried, though both wouldn't admit it.
The boys didn't notice, though. They were wrapped up in their little project. Shippo was pretty much out of it. He was still sad that Kagome was leaving.
Somehow, the day of the concert had crept up on them. They made their way to the concert site: Inuyasha and Miroku fidgeting and nervous, Kagome, Sango and Shippo lagging behind.
At the site of the concert, the band didn't have time to rehearse. They were each rushed off into dressing rooms.
~*~*~
"Like hi!" A girl waved to Sango and Kagome as soon as they entered their dressing room, "Like, remember me? It's me! Like Yura!"
The girls greeted her half-heartedly due to their depression. Yura frowned.
"Like boy problems?" Yura asked, concerned. Then her face lighted up and she put her hands together. "Like, you know like what we need? LIKE GIRL TALK!" She pulled Sango into the chair on her left and Kagome onto the couch. They weren't sure about sharing their personal lives with Yura at first but soon they found themselves rambling.
"And he's such a lecher!" Sango said infuriated "He could be out with another girl! And then he acts like he likes me!"
Yura gave a sympathetic nod and continued to adjust Sango's shirt. She wore a red tie with a white tank and an unbuttoned white dress shirt over it. She wore baggy black pants with red flames sprouting from the bottom. A chain hung at her side. Yura surveyed her work.
"Like, he like needs to totally like prove to you that he likes you if like he ever wants to get with you."
Sango nodded as she sat down on the couch and Kagome stood up. Yura held up a black top layered over a red one with flared sleeves that went well past her hands. The black top had strings of rhinestones, sewn on in such a way that they created several multi-layered loops on Kagome's arms. Both shirts were cut off an inch above her belly button. She also held out a long black peasant skirt. Kagome took the clothes and went to try them on. After, Yura sat her down and began brushing her hair.
"Like it's your turn to like spill!"
"Okay. There's this guy that I like. He acted like he was really into me and then he goes and hugs his ex while I'm there!"
"Like harsh."
"I forgave him though. But the problem is that he still feels obliged to her. It's tying him down!"
"Like you should totally do something!"
"Yeah. I'm quitting the band because of him."
"Like you go girl!"
Kagome smiled at her reflection. Still, she couldn't help but think that she was making the wrong choice, but she was determined none the less.
Yura scrunched Kagome's hair and it was held back on one side with a studded comb. After re-examining both girls, Yura smiled and told them to "Like go kick some like male ass!" to put it exactly. Both girls walked into the hallway to find that the guys were already done.
Inuyasha and Miroku couldn't help but stare as the girls walked out. Inuyasha was wearing black leather pants and black button-up shirt with red designs, open. Miroku sported black jeans, white skin-tight T-shirt and a red button up shirt, unbuttoned, over it. The girls thought that they looked pretty gorgeous themselves, but would never admit it, especially now.
Finally breathing, Inuyasha asked Kagome a question that would confirm their project.
"Are you sure you still want to leave?"
Kagome hesitated but nodded. Inuyasha's face showed no emotion. Inside, he was glad that he would get a chance to change her mind. With that thought, they walked on stage.
~*~*~
They had gone through all of their songs without a single flaw. Inuyasha noticed that Kagome wasn't singing with her usual enthusiasm. As 'Every Heart' ended, Kagome took a deep breath for what was about to come.
"I just wanted to thank you for coming. I would like to announce that-..."
Inuyasha grabbed the mike away from her before she could continue.
"This concert isn't over yet!" Looking at the confused expression on Shippo, Kagome and Sango's faces, he couldn't help but grin. "We've got something special for you today! This is for Kagome and Sango from Miroku and me. Hopefully, this is enough to change your minds about both of us."
With that Inuyasha escorted Shippo, Sango and Kagome to the side of the stage. He took Kagome's place at the mike. Sesshoumaru came on stage and took Sango's place. He wore a black turtleneck sweater and pants and held a white bass guitar with a single design on it. Three hexagons were clumped together and outlined in red with a flower patter in each of them. Inuyasha tapped the beat on his foot and he and Miroku broke into song in unison as they played.
I want to change the world
Piercing through the gales, unafraid of anything,
Now I hold my courage and pieces of my smile
Change my mind
If we reach out to the soaring future
without losing our passion, we'll be able to shine,
It's wonderland
Kagome and Sango watched in awe. Inuyasha was singing on his own free will? Miroku was being serious? That's commitment. Shippo was happy seeing the look on Kagome's face. Maybe she won't leave now! Soon the instrumental was over and Miroku sang the next verse.
You've left something in the far reaches of the grey sky,
and you keep on searching
as you wander.
In the night when your heart shook, and I can't see tomorrow
I can't believe anything, and close my ears.
When I met you, I found my true place in life.
An innocent kindness is right here.
And so we awaken...
As they broke into the chorus again, Sango just stared at Miroku. He was doing this for her instead of running off to some busty girl. He really was serious about this relationship stuff, wasn't he?
I want to change the world
I won't hesitate again. If I can shape a future with you,
then I can fly anywhere.
Change my mind
I can spread my wings and fly towards the unknown future
without losing my passion.
It's wonderland
Kagome couldn't take her eyes off of Inuyasha. He was doing this for her. He had put his fear behind him to convince her to stay. He really wanted her to. Kagome felt tears welling up as Inuyasha began his verse and his own chorus.
We keep swimming the same world
until the day we reach our dreams.
All of us bear the same worries
When you stop and look, I'll be right here
gazing at you.
I want to change the world
If you accept my gaze as I watch over you
and don't let go of my hand, I can do anything.
Change my mind
I won't let you be alone. Everyone is here.
Let's pierce our way through whatever may happen.
It's wonderland
Miroku and Inuyasha glanced at the girls before going on. They had gotten the reaction they wanted. Exchanging glances, they broke into the final chorus, their voices stronger than ever.
I want to change the world
Piercing through the gales, unafraid of anything,
Now I hold my courage and pieces of my smile
Change my mind
If we reach out to the soaring future
without losing our passion, we'll be able to shine.
It's wonderland
With the last few chords, Inuyasha stepped back from the mike only to be glomped by Kagome. Inuyasha hugged her tightly and whispered into her ear.
"Leaving now?"
"Never" She whispered back.
A little distance away from them, Sango was hugging Miroku. For once, he didn't try to grope her. Now a question popped into his head. He thought he knew the answer but was afraid to ask.
"Do you think I can be serious?"
"Very." She hugged him tighter.
Sesshoumaru was standing off to the side, looking slightly amused. The amusement was gone when a certain hyper 8-year old hopped over to him.
"Now Kagome won't leave! And Sango is happy! And Miroku will stop groping girls! And Inuyasha-...well he's still a meanie. But now we can have more concerts! And see more people and-..." Shippo rattled on while jumping in circles around Sesshoumaru, who looked a little more than annoyed.
The two couples were completely unaware of this. As far as they knew, the world was perfect. They kept staring into each other's eyes until some guy from the audience yelled out, "Kiss!"
Both couples were more then glad to oblige.
~*~*~
a/n: I have decided that this is not going to be the last chapter. One more coming! I'm gonna end with something else. This was just going to be the last major thing happening in the story. Anyway, I'll thank everyone from chapter 9+ in the last chapter! I hope you've enjoyed up until now!