A/N:
Thank you so much for the reviews!!!! I really enjoy reading them, and that tells me that they're people out there who enjoy reading my stories. Like I said, if you all have any ideas for names for this story, I've just gotta get more chapters up, then I would greatly appreciate it! I was reading through the first two chapters, and the name only goes with the first. *sighs* Oh well, I liked the title a lot, but if it doesn't really go with the whole story, then, well, I don't know. Anyway, I'm going to shut my mouth right now and let you read my story. Oh, and I do not own any InuYasha cast members, I just enjoy writing stories with them.
Chapter 2: The Feelings of Family
The peaceful breeze rolled through the feudal era, craftily combing through Inuyasha's silver hair. His amber eyes gazed ahead of him into the hazy distance, completely lost in his deep thoughts. His brother's demise continued to cloud his mind. No matter what he did, or how hard he tried, he couldn't ease the pain from his loss. Not even Kagome's sweet words or gentle touch could dispense the heartache. The only other thought he held was to destroy and annihilate Naraku. Just the name caused chaos to roar violently through his mind, and would send chills of anger and rage surging through his body. But still, even his destruction wouldn't ease the pain extensively. His brother would still cease to exist, and he would still be alone. There was no way of bringing back that aristocratic demon again. Inuyasha felt so much sorrow and grief, emotions he thought he would never experience towards Sesshomaru. He was after all, his only family left to him.
But that's where he was wrong. Even though he hadn't realized it yet, he had all the family he needed surrounding him. Kagome, Shippou, Miroku, and Sango were all like a family. They always stuck with each other, always protected one another, and cared deeply for each other. Yet, even from all that they have shown him, he still hasn't come to the conclusion that they are his family now, and will always be. He obviously doesn't see how much they truly care for him, and how much he means to them. They would easily give their lives if his were on the line. They would do nearly anything to ensure his safety. But still, he couldn't recognize that. It's as if a wall or barrier of some sort is blocking him from the love and care displayed towards him now. Maybe it's because his mind still dwells in his childhood memories, and the horrible tragedy bestowed upon him and Kikyo, his first love. Maybe it's because those recollections still haunt him when he's asleep and awake. But that's why they're here, to help him through it all, to help him through all of the pain and suffering. Possibly, just possibly, that wall could be lifted and he would notice the wonderful and caring family he has before him now. If that wall is removed, he would be able to relax and enjoy the fun of life, not just the pain and agony, or the misfortunes of life. He would be able to relish the sweet moments, the unforgettable, and the tender moments. He would realize that he has people there to help him through life, to guide him, and make it easier. He would see that there are people in this world who truly do care, and they are some of them.
* * * *
"Shippou, have you seen Inuyasha around?"
Kagome's sweet and worried voice filled the small ears of the young kitsune. Like he often did, he was stuffing his face with the many treats and candies Kagome had brought from her time. This time, he was savoring the sour taste of a green apple lollipop. The large sphere shaped object nearly didn't fit into his mouth. He slowly removed the delicacy from his mouth and gazed into the pure eyes of the concerned maiden.
"Sorry Kagome, I haven't seen him anywhere. What's troubling him anyway? He hasn't been acting like his usual self. I mean, he's usually over here trying to steal all of my candy, n-n-not that I w-want him to, it's just abnormal for him to have such manners."
She couldn't find the strength to hell him, or the others for that matter what had happened. However, they would probably be somewhat happy since that burden would be off their shoulders. But still, if they knew the story, even though she didn't know the whole thing, they would have completely different emotions towards the matter.
She let out a sigh, disappointed that she wasn't able to get the answer she was looking for. Her hopes suddenly changed when she felt a gentle touch. Her head shot around, but instead of gazing into the amber eyes she loved, they were an innocent navy blue. Also, not to mention, his hand wasn't directed towards her shoulder, or back, but her rear. She let out a screech as her hand aimed for his right cheek. All that was heard was her scream, a loud echoing slap, and some more of his lame excuses.
"Lady Kagome, I was merely trying to ensure that you were feeling delightful, not down and upset. You have been in the dumps lately, and I couldn't help but think that Inuyasha was somehow involved."
"Oh Miroku, save us..what do you mean Inuyasha?"
"I mean that he can be pretty arrogant and supercilious sometimes, and since he doesn't watch what his mouth is saying, I figured that he said something to hurt you."
"Eh, don't worry. I'm fine. Inuyasha has nothing to do with it, sort of. Anyway, if you don't mind, I'd like to get some fresh air?"
He gave her a look of concern, knowing that she wasn't telling the whole truth.
"We'll be waiting in here if you need to talk about anything."
"Thanks Miroku."
She gave him a soft smile then stepped outside.
"Uh, Miroku?" The monk glanced down by his side, seeing the kitsune holding onto his robe.
"Yes Shippou?"
"Perhaps it'll be best that we let Kagome be. We've been hording her too much, and that could be her cause for discomfort."
"Perhaps you're right. But answer me this? Where did you all of a sudden enhance your vocabulary?"
"Hm? Uh.when there's nothing to do, I take pleasure in reading, or trying to anyway, Kagome's school textbooks."
Miroku smiled as he glanced back towards Kagome's direction.
"Lady Kagome, I wish you would just admit to us what's disturbing you, and then maybe we could help."
"As do I."
Shippou sadly turned around, gazing in horror at the figure that stood before him.
"EEEIIIEEE!!!"
His loud cry filled the hut, easily reaching Kagome's ears. She rushed into the hut, prepared to fight for her friend. Her mouth nearly dropped to the floor when she noticed the figure that had scared the child. She burst into a storm of laughter, along with the monk and figure.
"H-h-hey! T-that was n-not funny! You guys enjoy torturing me, don't you?"
He began to sniffle when the figure knelt down before him, her sweet voice filling his small ears.
"Oh no Shippou, you've got it all wrong. You guys were just all acting so depressed, so I thought that you could use something to cheer you up."
"Y-you didn't have to scare me ya know."
"Sorry Shippou. I just thought is would cheer everyone up."
"Still Sango."
He gazed into her eyes and saw that she was truly sorry.
"Eh, I forgive you. You're lucky I have such a kind heart otherwise I probably would've eaten you up."
A giggle escaped her mouth as she rose to her feet. She was greeted kindheartedly by a hug from Kagome.
"We're glad you're back. And thanks, you really did cheer us up."
"No problem, anything for a friend."
All of them gathered together and sat in a neat circle in the center of the room. A cat like creature followed behind Sango, her light coat shimmering from the blazing flames.
"Kirara!"
Shippou let out a squeal of joy as the cat pounced into his tiny arms, purring softly as she did. The kitsune let out a chuckle as her fur tickled his skin.
"So Sango, what kind of demon did you face this time?"
Kagome couldn't help but ask the question that was dying to get out.
"Well, it was like one I've never seen before. Out of all my years in exterminating demons, I have never come across one as hideous as that thing was."
Shippou hopped happily into Kagome's lap, still holding the cat demon.
"What did it look like?"
He was waiting anxiously for her to continue.
"Let's see, it looked as if it were part spider, part human, and part, oh I don't know what. Anyway, its lower body was built like a horse, but instead of horse legs, long creepy spider legs were in their place. Above that, on two of the legs were tentacles that were slimy and disgusting. The demon's upper body was built more like a human. Except, it had one bulging eye, and on the center of its head was a horn. We demon exterminators call this the "Shingi no Kibou Keikai", the 'Guardian of Faith and Hope.' We have yet to understand why it resides on youkai's, but all we know is that it is believed to have ancient powers that bring good luck and strong will power during battle to whom ever possesses it. So, I thought I'd bring it back here. That youkai was a sight if you ask me."
Shippou tried to hold in giggles, but it was nearly impossible for the young child.
"I almost wish I could've seen it!"
"Shippou, if you saw that thing you would've been running and screaming so loud and fast that you probably could've traveled through time."
"Huh? Hey! No I wouldn't!"
Everyone began to laugh as the fox child tried to back up his words.
"I'm brave ya know, one of the bravest demons alive!"
"Oh Shippou."
"Don't 'oh Shippou' me! I am! I wouldn't run away like that!"
"Ok, maybe not that fast, but you'd still run."
"Would not!"
Miroku watched in the background, enjoying the entertainment put on by the bickering two, and Kagome's heavenly laughter. He took this opportunity to check Sango, and in his words,
'Just to make sure she isn't injured.'
But as usual, his words were wrong, and he would end up on the floor with either a new lump, or a red face. This time, a new lump settled on the top of his head.
"MIROKU!"
Her voice echoed through the room, along with the THUD noise of her fist pounding his head to the floor.
"Pervert!"
Kirara just gazed curiously as Sango exploded from the monk's actions. Kagome and Shippou were cracking up behind them, watching as Miroku came back with another one of his pathetic excuses.
"Lady Sango, I was simply trying to make sure that you weren't injured from battle."
"Miroku, save us the lame excuses."
Kagome found it difficult to breath from all of the laughter escaping her mouth.
Not too far away, a pair of golden eyes was straining to see the commotion and excitement occurring in the hut. His dog-like ears were twitching from the laughter and happy voices that filled them. A small smile crept upon the hanyou's face as he savored their sound of pleasure.
"Kagome, all of you, have so much life in you. You all know how to cheer one another up, just like one.big.family."
It finally hit him, the thought and moment he had been waiting for most of his life. The barrier blocking his eyes was finally removed. He just realized that he had a family, and he wasn't alone anymore. He figured out that the people around him were his family, and they did care, deeply. They argued, but would always make up, just like a family. They cared for one another just like a family. They would give their lives for one another, just like a family. He realized that they were more than just friends, that they were his life, and the reason he could now care for people. They had taught him that, and how important friendship is. They had taught him that not everyone in this world is cruel, that there are many people who do care. He had learned from these people how to be kind and how to show it, something he has never been good at. He realized that all these months he has spent with these people; he was growing closer and closer, forming a family, and something he has longed for since a child. He felt tears come to his eyes as their elation and happiness continued to fill his ears. They may not be the perfect family, but they were his family, and he was theirs.
After listening to their blissful voices, he let out a sigh, and dropped carelessly to the ground.
"Kagome and the others are my family, and always will be."
He slowly treaded along a narrow path that led to the hut they were residing in for the night. His silver hair swayed with the wind as he carried on. His amber eyes were starring at the ground, his mind thinking genuinely about his family. The feelings of family filled his heart with joy and delight. He had always wanted a true family, and now he had it. A shimmering tear strolled down his cheek as he thought about them, and how they have changed his life.
Standing only feet before him was Kagome, enjoying the fresh air. After letting out all of her laughter, she decided to step outside and relish the clean taste of the feudal air. Her chocolate brown eyes noticed the hanyou striding towards the hut. What shocked her most was the glistening tear that fell to the earth, accompanied by a charming smile. Seeing him smile like that made her world brighten and fill with sunshine. She slowly walked towards him, watching as his sliver hair danced with the wind.
Inuyasha glanced up when he heard a small footstep. He noticed Kagome standing before him, with a large smile spread across her face.
"Inuyasha, would you like to come in with us? We're getting ready to make dinner, and they've decided on ramen. I figured that you would want some too, considering ho...."
She was silenced when she felt a gentle touch on her hand. She looked down and saw his hand slowly encompass hers.
"Inuyasha."
"Kagome, I've realized that you're my family, and I've always wanted one. You and the others are my life, and I will protect you all forever."
Tears quickly filled her eyes as she heard those words come out of his mouth.
"You're right, we are all family, and we shall stay with each other for eternity."
She laced her hand with his and continued walking towards the hut. Both of their eyes were beaming with joy.
"It feels good to have family."
"I'm glad it does. We'll always be there for you Inuyasha."
His grip tightened around her hand, showing that he cared.
"I'm thankful."
They both glanced ahead of them, watching as their friends stepped out of the door. Their faces were covered in an expression of pure happiness.
Miroku gave Sango a slight tap on the back. He spoke to her in a silent whisper,
"About time those two got together."
She beamed with bliss as she scrutinized each detail of her two friends as they approached. They truly seemed happy.
"You're right."
Shippou vaulted into the air and landed carefully on her shoulder, his emerald eyes gazing at the couple.
"Hey, what's going on between them?"
"We'll explain it when you're a bit older."
"Eh, but I wanna know!!!"
"Dear Shippou, you.."
Sango froze when she felt a tender touch on her rear.
"MMIIRROOKKUU!!"
Her voice, along with a slap echoed throughout the evening air.
Kagome and Inuyasha giggled as they watched their friend fall to the ground with a red handprint on his face.
"When will he ever give up?"
"Well, he wouldn't be Miroku if he didn't act like that."
Inuyasha gasped at her.
"Do you mean to say that you like him like that?"
"Eh, what? No! I'm just saying that he wouldn't be as funny and seem so innocent with those awkward ways of his, I guess."
Inuyasha gazed at her in sheer confusion.
"Whatever. You're still too confusing to me."
"Eh.thanks a lot."
She removed her hand from his and stormed forward.
"Hey! Come back here! I can't help it if you are!"
"Sit-boy."
His face met the hard solid ground.
"K-Kagome!"
"Oh quit! You're the one who's confusing."
Sango couldn't help but giggle in her throat. She watched as Inuyasha threw a fit raising himself up. Kagome walked ahead, soon standing before Sango. She watched as she tried to hold in her laughter, but to no avail.
"Sango?"
She burst out into a storm of laughter for the millionth time that day.
"O-oh Kagome! Y-you two are h-hilarious!"
Even though Inuyasha had made her mad, she did think it was somewhat funny. She then joined her friend in the laughter, along with Shippou. Miroku just stood by them, confused on why they were laughing so much.
"What happened?"
His attention was directed towards the hanyou as he stormed by.
"Yeah, yeah, laugh it up."
He entered the hut, hiding a smile behind his silver hair. He was glad that he had a finally found a family. They were his life, and he would never let them go.
"Sango, Miroku, Shippou, let's go in and eat now. If I laugh anymore I won't be able to eat at all."
Shippou hopped gleefully onto her shoulder, gripping his small fox like hands onto the material of her sleeve.
"Hush you guys! Kagome mustn't laugh anymore or else she won't be able to eat! She has to eat ya know!"
Kagome, along with the others, exploded into another fit of laughter. Even Inuyasha was chuckling from the kitsune's remark. Shippou just gazed at them, an expression of fret filling his eyes.
"Kagome, stop laughing! I don't want you to die from starvation!"
Tears quickly filled his eyes as he began balling into her raven black hair.
"Hey, hey, Shippou, it's ok. It was only a figure of speech. I'll still be able to eat."
"A-a figure of speech?"
"Yes, now let's go inside and eat! I'm starving!"
"You can say that again!"
Sango and Miroku rushed into the hut, followed by Kagome and Shippou. Kagome glanced at Inuyasha who had quickly covered his smile with a glare. She knew that he had been laughing, but he was just that way. She found it adorable that he wouldn't just express his true feelings, in a way. She decided not to say anything about the faint smile she saw.
"About time you guys came in here. The dinner isn't going to cook itself you know."
Kagome and Sango let out another small laugh.
"Hmph, woman."
He turned his head, his silver hair covering his face in a veil. Beneath that veil was another hidden smile.
"Sango? Would you like to help me make the soup?"
She was by her side in a flash.
"Just guide me through it!"
Kagome sent her a warm smile. Shippou had relaxed on the ground near the warm fire, tenderly caressing Kirara in his lap, soothingly stroking her feather soft fur. Miroku was relaxing too, and enjoying the nice view of the ladies before him. His eyes were wandering, along with his mind.
"Here, all you need to do is place ten cups of water over the small flame."
Sango carefully poured ten cups of water into the bowl, doing her best to get if perfect.
"It doesn't have to be perfect."
"Yeah, I know, but I want it to. I'm making this meal specially for you guys, my family."
Kagome gave her a gentle hug, and then glanced towards Inuyasha, who now had a few tears trickling down his cheek. Kagome knew though that they were no longer tears of pain or sorrow, but tears of happiness and joy. She felt like crying herself, considering that she couldn't be happier for him.
Inuyasha hid a grin beneath his veil of hair.
'That's right, you are my family, and my life. And I'm your family.'
His heart flooded with delight and pleasure as he watched his family enjoying one of their most precious moments. He knew that he would cherish this memory forever.
_________________________________
A/N: Well, there you have it! Chapters 2, complete. I hope you all like it so far. I'm going to do my best to get the next chapter up ASAP, but it may take some time. Oh, and to answer someone's question they asked me, yes I do have Tech TV. That's how I watch Betterman and Crest of the Stars. One more question, can anyone tell me how to get at least one space between the A/N, chapter, and story? I've tried so many times, and I can't figure it out. If I get a space between them, it'll be a lot easier on you guys when you read it, and it'll look a lot nicer. I've gotta go now, cause it's late. I hope you all like it so far, and it's only going to get better. Don't' forget to review! Ja, matta ne!
Thank you so much for the reviews!!!! I really enjoy reading them, and that tells me that they're people out there who enjoy reading my stories. Like I said, if you all have any ideas for names for this story, I've just gotta get more chapters up, then I would greatly appreciate it! I was reading through the first two chapters, and the name only goes with the first. *sighs* Oh well, I liked the title a lot, but if it doesn't really go with the whole story, then, well, I don't know. Anyway, I'm going to shut my mouth right now and let you read my story. Oh, and I do not own any InuYasha cast members, I just enjoy writing stories with them.
Chapter 2: The Feelings of Family
The peaceful breeze rolled through the feudal era, craftily combing through Inuyasha's silver hair. His amber eyes gazed ahead of him into the hazy distance, completely lost in his deep thoughts. His brother's demise continued to cloud his mind. No matter what he did, or how hard he tried, he couldn't ease the pain from his loss. Not even Kagome's sweet words or gentle touch could dispense the heartache. The only other thought he held was to destroy and annihilate Naraku. Just the name caused chaos to roar violently through his mind, and would send chills of anger and rage surging through his body. But still, even his destruction wouldn't ease the pain extensively. His brother would still cease to exist, and he would still be alone. There was no way of bringing back that aristocratic demon again. Inuyasha felt so much sorrow and grief, emotions he thought he would never experience towards Sesshomaru. He was after all, his only family left to him.
But that's where he was wrong. Even though he hadn't realized it yet, he had all the family he needed surrounding him. Kagome, Shippou, Miroku, and Sango were all like a family. They always stuck with each other, always protected one another, and cared deeply for each other. Yet, even from all that they have shown him, he still hasn't come to the conclusion that they are his family now, and will always be. He obviously doesn't see how much they truly care for him, and how much he means to them. They would easily give their lives if his were on the line. They would do nearly anything to ensure his safety. But still, he couldn't recognize that. It's as if a wall or barrier of some sort is blocking him from the love and care displayed towards him now. Maybe it's because his mind still dwells in his childhood memories, and the horrible tragedy bestowed upon him and Kikyo, his first love. Maybe it's because those recollections still haunt him when he's asleep and awake. But that's why they're here, to help him through it all, to help him through all of the pain and suffering. Possibly, just possibly, that wall could be lifted and he would notice the wonderful and caring family he has before him now. If that wall is removed, he would be able to relax and enjoy the fun of life, not just the pain and agony, or the misfortunes of life. He would be able to relish the sweet moments, the unforgettable, and the tender moments. He would realize that he has people there to help him through life, to guide him, and make it easier. He would see that there are people in this world who truly do care, and they are some of them.
* * * *
"Shippou, have you seen Inuyasha around?"
Kagome's sweet and worried voice filled the small ears of the young kitsune. Like he often did, he was stuffing his face with the many treats and candies Kagome had brought from her time. This time, he was savoring the sour taste of a green apple lollipop. The large sphere shaped object nearly didn't fit into his mouth. He slowly removed the delicacy from his mouth and gazed into the pure eyes of the concerned maiden.
"Sorry Kagome, I haven't seen him anywhere. What's troubling him anyway? He hasn't been acting like his usual self. I mean, he's usually over here trying to steal all of my candy, n-n-not that I w-want him to, it's just abnormal for him to have such manners."
She couldn't find the strength to hell him, or the others for that matter what had happened. However, they would probably be somewhat happy since that burden would be off their shoulders. But still, if they knew the story, even though she didn't know the whole thing, they would have completely different emotions towards the matter.
She let out a sigh, disappointed that she wasn't able to get the answer she was looking for. Her hopes suddenly changed when she felt a gentle touch. Her head shot around, but instead of gazing into the amber eyes she loved, they were an innocent navy blue. Also, not to mention, his hand wasn't directed towards her shoulder, or back, but her rear. She let out a screech as her hand aimed for his right cheek. All that was heard was her scream, a loud echoing slap, and some more of his lame excuses.
"Lady Kagome, I was merely trying to ensure that you were feeling delightful, not down and upset. You have been in the dumps lately, and I couldn't help but think that Inuyasha was somehow involved."
"Oh Miroku, save us..what do you mean Inuyasha?"
"I mean that he can be pretty arrogant and supercilious sometimes, and since he doesn't watch what his mouth is saying, I figured that he said something to hurt you."
"Eh, don't worry. I'm fine. Inuyasha has nothing to do with it, sort of. Anyway, if you don't mind, I'd like to get some fresh air?"
He gave her a look of concern, knowing that she wasn't telling the whole truth.
"We'll be waiting in here if you need to talk about anything."
"Thanks Miroku."
She gave him a soft smile then stepped outside.
"Uh, Miroku?" The monk glanced down by his side, seeing the kitsune holding onto his robe.
"Yes Shippou?"
"Perhaps it'll be best that we let Kagome be. We've been hording her too much, and that could be her cause for discomfort."
"Perhaps you're right. But answer me this? Where did you all of a sudden enhance your vocabulary?"
"Hm? Uh.when there's nothing to do, I take pleasure in reading, or trying to anyway, Kagome's school textbooks."
Miroku smiled as he glanced back towards Kagome's direction.
"Lady Kagome, I wish you would just admit to us what's disturbing you, and then maybe we could help."
"As do I."
Shippou sadly turned around, gazing in horror at the figure that stood before him.
"EEEIIIEEE!!!"
His loud cry filled the hut, easily reaching Kagome's ears. She rushed into the hut, prepared to fight for her friend. Her mouth nearly dropped to the floor when she noticed the figure that had scared the child. She burst into a storm of laughter, along with the monk and figure.
"H-h-hey! T-that was n-not funny! You guys enjoy torturing me, don't you?"
He began to sniffle when the figure knelt down before him, her sweet voice filling his small ears.
"Oh no Shippou, you've got it all wrong. You guys were just all acting so depressed, so I thought that you could use something to cheer you up."
"Y-you didn't have to scare me ya know."
"Sorry Shippou. I just thought is would cheer everyone up."
"Still Sango."
He gazed into her eyes and saw that she was truly sorry.
"Eh, I forgive you. You're lucky I have such a kind heart otherwise I probably would've eaten you up."
A giggle escaped her mouth as she rose to her feet. She was greeted kindheartedly by a hug from Kagome.
"We're glad you're back. And thanks, you really did cheer us up."
"No problem, anything for a friend."
All of them gathered together and sat in a neat circle in the center of the room. A cat like creature followed behind Sango, her light coat shimmering from the blazing flames.
"Kirara!"
Shippou let out a squeal of joy as the cat pounced into his tiny arms, purring softly as she did. The kitsune let out a chuckle as her fur tickled his skin.
"So Sango, what kind of demon did you face this time?"
Kagome couldn't help but ask the question that was dying to get out.
"Well, it was like one I've never seen before. Out of all my years in exterminating demons, I have never come across one as hideous as that thing was."
Shippou hopped happily into Kagome's lap, still holding the cat demon.
"What did it look like?"
He was waiting anxiously for her to continue.
"Let's see, it looked as if it were part spider, part human, and part, oh I don't know what. Anyway, its lower body was built like a horse, but instead of horse legs, long creepy spider legs were in their place. Above that, on two of the legs were tentacles that were slimy and disgusting. The demon's upper body was built more like a human. Except, it had one bulging eye, and on the center of its head was a horn. We demon exterminators call this the "Shingi no Kibou Keikai", the 'Guardian of Faith and Hope.' We have yet to understand why it resides on youkai's, but all we know is that it is believed to have ancient powers that bring good luck and strong will power during battle to whom ever possesses it. So, I thought I'd bring it back here. That youkai was a sight if you ask me."
Shippou tried to hold in giggles, but it was nearly impossible for the young child.
"I almost wish I could've seen it!"
"Shippou, if you saw that thing you would've been running and screaming so loud and fast that you probably could've traveled through time."
"Huh? Hey! No I wouldn't!"
Everyone began to laugh as the fox child tried to back up his words.
"I'm brave ya know, one of the bravest demons alive!"
"Oh Shippou."
"Don't 'oh Shippou' me! I am! I wouldn't run away like that!"
"Ok, maybe not that fast, but you'd still run."
"Would not!"
Miroku watched in the background, enjoying the entertainment put on by the bickering two, and Kagome's heavenly laughter. He took this opportunity to check Sango, and in his words,
'Just to make sure she isn't injured.'
But as usual, his words were wrong, and he would end up on the floor with either a new lump, or a red face. This time, a new lump settled on the top of his head.
"MIROKU!"
Her voice echoed through the room, along with the THUD noise of her fist pounding his head to the floor.
"Pervert!"
Kirara just gazed curiously as Sango exploded from the monk's actions. Kagome and Shippou were cracking up behind them, watching as Miroku came back with another one of his pathetic excuses.
"Lady Sango, I was simply trying to make sure that you weren't injured from battle."
"Miroku, save us the lame excuses."
Kagome found it difficult to breath from all of the laughter escaping her mouth.
Not too far away, a pair of golden eyes was straining to see the commotion and excitement occurring in the hut. His dog-like ears were twitching from the laughter and happy voices that filled them. A small smile crept upon the hanyou's face as he savored their sound of pleasure.
"Kagome, all of you, have so much life in you. You all know how to cheer one another up, just like one.big.family."
It finally hit him, the thought and moment he had been waiting for most of his life. The barrier blocking his eyes was finally removed. He just realized that he had a family, and he wasn't alone anymore. He figured out that the people around him were his family, and they did care, deeply. They argued, but would always make up, just like a family. They cared for one another just like a family. They would give their lives for one another, just like a family. He realized that they were more than just friends, that they were his life, and the reason he could now care for people. They had taught him that, and how important friendship is. They had taught him that not everyone in this world is cruel, that there are many people who do care. He had learned from these people how to be kind and how to show it, something he has never been good at. He realized that all these months he has spent with these people; he was growing closer and closer, forming a family, and something he has longed for since a child. He felt tears come to his eyes as their elation and happiness continued to fill his ears. They may not be the perfect family, but they were his family, and he was theirs.
After listening to their blissful voices, he let out a sigh, and dropped carelessly to the ground.
"Kagome and the others are my family, and always will be."
He slowly treaded along a narrow path that led to the hut they were residing in for the night. His silver hair swayed with the wind as he carried on. His amber eyes were starring at the ground, his mind thinking genuinely about his family. The feelings of family filled his heart with joy and delight. He had always wanted a true family, and now he had it. A shimmering tear strolled down his cheek as he thought about them, and how they have changed his life.
Standing only feet before him was Kagome, enjoying the fresh air. After letting out all of her laughter, she decided to step outside and relish the clean taste of the feudal air. Her chocolate brown eyes noticed the hanyou striding towards the hut. What shocked her most was the glistening tear that fell to the earth, accompanied by a charming smile. Seeing him smile like that made her world brighten and fill with sunshine. She slowly walked towards him, watching as his sliver hair danced with the wind.
Inuyasha glanced up when he heard a small footstep. He noticed Kagome standing before him, with a large smile spread across her face.
"Inuyasha, would you like to come in with us? We're getting ready to make dinner, and they've decided on ramen. I figured that you would want some too, considering ho...."
She was silenced when she felt a gentle touch on her hand. She looked down and saw his hand slowly encompass hers.
"Inuyasha."
"Kagome, I've realized that you're my family, and I've always wanted one. You and the others are my life, and I will protect you all forever."
Tears quickly filled her eyes as she heard those words come out of his mouth.
"You're right, we are all family, and we shall stay with each other for eternity."
She laced her hand with his and continued walking towards the hut. Both of their eyes were beaming with joy.
"It feels good to have family."
"I'm glad it does. We'll always be there for you Inuyasha."
His grip tightened around her hand, showing that he cared.
"I'm thankful."
They both glanced ahead of them, watching as their friends stepped out of the door. Their faces were covered in an expression of pure happiness.
Miroku gave Sango a slight tap on the back. He spoke to her in a silent whisper,
"About time those two got together."
She beamed with bliss as she scrutinized each detail of her two friends as they approached. They truly seemed happy.
"You're right."
Shippou vaulted into the air and landed carefully on her shoulder, his emerald eyes gazing at the couple.
"Hey, what's going on between them?"
"We'll explain it when you're a bit older."
"Eh, but I wanna know!!!"
"Dear Shippou, you.."
Sango froze when she felt a tender touch on her rear.
"MMIIRROOKKUU!!"
Her voice, along with a slap echoed throughout the evening air.
Kagome and Inuyasha giggled as they watched their friend fall to the ground with a red handprint on his face.
"When will he ever give up?"
"Well, he wouldn't be Miroku if he didn't act like that."
Inuyasha gasped at her.
"Do you mean to say that you like him like that?"
"Eh, what? No! I'm just saying that he wouldn't be as funny and seem so innocent with those awkward ways of his, I guess."
Inuyasha gazed at her in sheer confusion.
"Whatever. You're still too confusing to me."
"Eh.thanks a lot."
She removed her hand from his and stormed forward.
"Hey! Come back here! I can't help it if you are!"
"Sit-boy."
His face met the hard solid ground.
"K-Kagome!"
"Oh quit! You're the one who's confusing."
Sango couldn't help but giggle in her throat. She watched as Inuyasha threw a fit raising himself up. Kagome walked ahead, soon standing before Sango. She watched as she tried to hold in her laughter, but to no avail.
"Sango?"
She burst out into a storm of laughter for the millionth time that day.
"O-oh Kagome! Y-you two are h-hilarious!"
Even though Inuyasha had made her mad, she did think it was somewhat funny. She then joined her friend in the laughter, along with Shippou. Miroku just stood by them, confused on why they were laughing so much.
"What happened?"
His attention was directed towards the hanyou as he stormed by.
"Yeah, yeah, laugh it up."
He entered the hut, hiding a smile behind his silver hair. He was glad that he had a finally found a family. They were his life, and he would never let them go.
"Sango, Miroku, Shippou, let's go in and eat now. If I laugh anymore I won't be able to eat at all."
Shippou hopped gleefully onto her shoulder, gripping his small fox like hands onto the material of her sleeve.
"Hush you guys! Kagome mustn't laugh anymore or else she won't be able to eat! She has to eat ya know!"
Kagome, along with the others, exploded into another fit of laughter. Even Inuyasha was chuckling from the kitsune's remark. Shippou just gazed at them, an expression of fret filling his eyes.
"Kagome, stop laughing! I don't want you to die from starvation!"
Tears quickly filled his eyes as he began balling into her raven black hair.
"Hey, hey, Shippou, it's ok. It was only a figure of speech. I'll still be able to eat."
"A-a figure of speech?"
"Yes, now let's go inside and eat! I'm starving!"
"You can say that again!"
Sango and Miroku rushed into the hut, followed by Kagome and Shippou. Kagome glanced at Inuyasha who had quickly covered his smile with a glare. She knew that he had been laughing, but he was just that way. She found it adorable that he wouldn't just express his true feelings, in a way. She decided not to say anything about the faint smile she saw.
"About time you guys came in here. The dinner isn't going to cook itself you know."
Kagome and Sango let out another small laugh.
"Hmph, woman."
He turned his head, his silver hair covering his face in a veil. Beneath that veil was another hidden smile.
"Sango? Would you like to help me make the soup?"
She was by her side in a flash.
"Just guide me through it!"
Kagome sent her a warm smile. Shippou had relaxed on the ground near the warm fire, tenderly caressing Kirara in his lap, soothingly stroking her feather soft fur. Miroku was relaxing too, and enjoying the nice view of the ladies before him. His eyes were wandering, along with his mind.
"Here, all you need to do is place ten cups of water over the small flame."
Sango carefully poured ten cups of water into the bowl, doing her best to get if perfect.
"It doesn't have to be perfect."
"Yeah, I know, but I want it to. I'm making this meal specially for you guys, my family."
Kagome gave her a gentle hug, and then glanced towards Inuyasha, who now had a few tears trickling down his cheek. Kagome knew though that they were no longer tears of pain or sorrow, but tears of happiness and joy. She felt like crying herself, considering that she couldn't be happier for him.
Inuyasha hid a grin beneath his veil of hair.
'That's right, you are my family, and my life. And I'm your family.'
His heart flooded with delight and pleasure as he watched his family enjoying one of their most precious moments. He knew that he would cherish this memory forever.
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A/N: Well, there you have it! Chapters 2, complete. I hope you all like it so far. I'm going to do my best to get the next chapter up ASAP, but it may take some time. Oh, and to answer someone's question they asked me, yes I do have Tech TV. That's how I watch Betterman and Crest of the Stars. One more question, can anyone tell me how to get at least one space between the A/N, chapter, and story? I've tried so many times, and I can't figure it out. If I get a space between them, it'll be a lot easier on you guys when you read it, and it'll look a lot nicer. I've gotta go now, cause it's late. I hope you all like it so far, and it's only going to get better. Don't' forget to review! Ja, matta ne!