Authoress is checking her e-mail, an innocent behavior these days, no? So,
she gets up and walks around before sitting down and reading a piece of
paper she wrote for another story (sorry). Her computer beeps. She does
nothing except read. The computer beeps more urgently. She looks up.
Inuyasha opens the door sometime later, looking for answers for why the
basement ceiling is leaking. The authoress is surfing on a huge tidal
wave! A tidal wave of reviews!!!! (And for some very odd reason, she is
singing the Batman theme. . .)
Because of that, shout outs are going to be long. (Cracks knuckles) Here we go. . .
Mucomi9: Thanks for the review! So, partially dedicated to you, since you gave me two of all my reviews, here it is, the next chapter.
Twistedreamer: Sweet name by the way. Glad you like it, and I cannot spell either. I just have spell check on my computer to help out. I'll update as much as I can, as I know I am very bad and update very little. Bad K.K., bad!
DanDanThe-omit-Man: When I read your name, I started to laugh, no offense meant. It's a cool name. I'll do my best to keep on writing, although I'm in a little bit of an author's block (grr)(Kay: little bit of an author's block? Ha! You are nuts!). Will work hard to get out last few chapters. . .
Katie: Will get you a challenge fic. Glad you like my story too! No problem reading the review either. I've gotten worse reviews in grammar and such than that.
Inu-babe666: Will read fanfics at some point . . . NEED to remember to do that. . . Happy Valentines wishes to you too, thanks for the wishes you gave me, sorry it's going so fast, trying to finish all before shower. . . Oh, and it is an Inu/Kag fic. Beyond a doubt, an Inu/Kag fic. I rarely write anything other than Inu/Kag. One Kou/Kag, but that was a song fic.
Miztikal-Dragon: Well, they could court, but they can't. Servants can't court masters, which WILL present a problem in the future. Don't worry, they will get together, but I'm not telling how. DO NOT FEEL ALONE!!! I have a million stories outlined in my head, but have yet to be written. Want some?
Mikono-Aries: You know, seeing Naraku in a towel has got to be one of the highest on my list of the scariest things. . . Oh, about the ukulele (I found the right spelling!!), I have no idea what it sounds like. We just have a very badly tuned one upstairs, and it sounds like twang, twang, pong, twang. Hope that helps.
W(): I do believe that is the first death threat I have ever gotten . . . But that's okay! I'll hope to update as soon as I can so that you do not have to handle that threat! ^_^
Puppkid: I will need to read the Switch then. I will. (Glowers at homework and scholarship junk) In time. I hope to have really good fics in my recommendation list. Because I want people reading only the best. My recommendation this time is on my fav list!
Banshee of Death: Ooh, deary me. You need another chapter, huh? Well, here you go. . . Right here. . . Keep reading then and do not twitch like that anymore. It scares me. Honest.
BrittBrat: Sorry, going to apologize right now: It's original. Okay, that part over. Unfortunately, I cannot keep going and going and going and going and going and going and going and going because my fingers will someday fall off and the plot line will be horrible. So, I'm going for a short story at eight chapters. (Gasp) Yes, eight chapters.
Starfire112: You like it. Good, good. Now, let's work on communication. . . (Joking, joking. . . ) Thanks for the review, and your approval is appreciated. Greatly. Very greatly.
Angelmoon14: Yes, yes, OOC is sort of expected by me for AU fics. It means their lives have not had the same background, so you can play a little bit with their personalities. Or I believe I can. Thanks for the praise! I love this gift I've been given!! ^_^
Evil Illusions: "Nicely written." (Tears) I LOVE IT!!! Thanks so much! And this quote too: "Good work". (Sob) Okay, I'm getting over the edge, but I really do appreciate the praise. It's a wonderful gift I've been given.
Blazingsunstar: Same thing everytime. BUT THAT'S OKAY!!! All reviews make me feel good. Thanks for thinking so highly of my fic! (^_^)
Out4Sesshomaru'sHead: By your name, I see your position on Sesshoumaru. (nods) Will beware of words then. And recommendations. Oh, thanks for even considering my story on your fav list! I'm honored every time someone does it. I'd be grateful if you do put my (pathetic) story on your list! THANKS!! (For reviewing too!)
Lyell: Um, by this time, she has seen him go human. I guess, in this time and in his position, no hanyou like Inuyasha could ever let his secret stay secret for long. So, Kagome probably knew. Besides, she's dealt with a hanyou most of her life: Sayuri. She probably knows a lot about the hanyou change, but thanks for reminding me of that little sitchy. . . I might bring it up later too! Thanks!!!
Lady Netiri: Thanks for the review! I'm glad you like my story, and I appreciate all pleasant requests. I usually try to end my reviews as you do, like that. Oh, I hope to continue as long as my outline lets me! Which reminds me . . . Chapter seven needs some story. . .
THE SHOUT OUTS ARE DONE AND YOU SHOULD STOP OR YOU WILL SCROLL THROUGH THE STORY!!!!!
_________________________________________________________________
Life's under no obligation to give us what we expect.
~Margaret Mitchell
_________________________________________________________________
This time, Inuyasha was not surprised when Kagome recovered from the attack quickly. She just seemed able to bounce back from that sort of thing fast. That was just how she was.
Even though, Inuyasha could feel his instincts starting to claim Kagome as his charge, his purpose, the one he needed to protect. And he accepted it openly. There was something about this little enchantress that just drew him, like metal to magnet. She was a little charmer, he supposed, in her free time. There was no other explanation. There was something about the life that she displayed, the courage, the fire, and above all, the kind nature.
He could count on his right hand the number of times he had been sat purposely. She always corrected him when he made a mistake, instead of restraining him. She refused to restrain him when she was certain he did the right thing with what he knew at that time, and he was grateful for it.
Though he did not like what was happening any other way. He found himself smiling when she looked his way, did a small favor for him, or even simply said his name. He was starting to notice when she wore a new outfit, and if it looked good on her or not. He was starting to notice the soft changes in her scent with different emotions. It was as if a veil had been lifted from his eyes, a covering from his nose, and plugs from his ears.
She was weakening him, and he liked it.
But he was afraid of one thing: the courtship issue. Nothing had come up, but then again, it was early, even though her mother was pushing for a courtship with a young man up the street, who was well on his way to political greatness.
And that was when it happened. Inuyasha was nearest the door when it rang, and he winced once again. That darn thing was so high pitched it ripped his ears off. He heard Kagome call out something, and even though he did not comprehend it, he could guess what it was.
And he obeyed her, opening the door slowly, willing his hearing to come back. On the doorstep was the young man that had dared to call his mistress 'Kagome-chan' and live at the party, and he was speaking. Very quietly.
"You'll have to speak up, Sir," he murmured, hoping he was not shouting. The boy looked puzzled before he spoke louder, and Inuyasha could catch his words.
"May I speak to Higurashi-san?"
"Higurashi-sama," he called quietly, knowing that if Higurashi-sama did not hear it, Kouga would and would alert her. "She'll be down in a moment."
"So, how is Kagome-chan?"
Inuyasha shot the cheeky boy a glare and allowed the strange man to enter their home. "She's recovered fine, if that is what you meant."
"Good. Ah, ohayo Higurashi-san. I would like to speak to you and your lovely daughter, if you would not mind."
Inuyasha caught the inflection in his tone and felt his annoyance rise to anger. A low growl started in his chest, and only he knew it was there; he felt it more than heard it.
"Come with me, it would be a pleasure to have you join us for a light lunch, if you wish?" Higurashi-sama said, a pleasant but tired smile on her face. "Kagome will be down in a moment."
Inuyasha knew from his scent what he wanted, and he hated it with all of his heart. There was no way, no how, not a chance that he would entrust his charge to this man. Never.
"Ah, Kagome-chan!" Inuyasha flinched at the term of familiarity, and he wished suddenly that his hearing was still obliterated by the doorbell.
"Hojo-san?" Oh, great, she knew him?
"Kagome-chan, I would like to ask you something. I have watched you for a long time, and when I saw you at the party, I thought you were the most beautiful thing I have ever encountered. And now, I come to ask if you would agree to let me love you for ever and always."
Kagome and Higurashi-sama stared at him in wonder before Inuyasha could not help blurting out, "he means, can he court you?"
Higurashi-sama broke out in laughs. "Of course he can. But may is a different matter. Kagome?"
Inuyasha suddenly felt his inu instincts racing up to control him. Kagome was his, and was not open for any man to take. "No way, no how, not ever," he snapped, glaring pointedly at Kagome and Hojo. There was just something about Hojo that he did not like.
"What?" Hojo cried, as if he was expecting her guardian to remain silent in such a big event as this. "Why does he speak as if he owns this place?"
"Inuyasha," Kagome began sweetly, and Inuyasha knew he was going to receive pain with that tone. "I know that we said you could have a say, and you have. Now, can you please leave us for a while?" Grumbling, he moved up the staircase and disappeared from view, but she knew he would listen to each word with rapt attention.
"Please, Kagome-chan, ignore your guardian's horrible idea of sense and allow me to court you!" Hojo pleaded, and Kagome could not help but relent. He was pulling the puppy dog eyes on her, and she hated them, mainly because she could not withstand them for long. Besides, it was just courting. She could always break it off.
"Only if it fits around my schedule," she said quietly. "I need to worry about school and training, as well as have time for homework and practice, and-"
"Wonderful Kagome-chan! Let us spend the afternoon together in celebration! Leave your guardian here," he said, waving to the stairs. Kagome could not help but gawk at his language and idea, but with a reassuring look from her mother, she went with him.
Upstairs, Inuyasha had leaned back against the wall of Jii-chan-sama's room, and sat from that position. For some reason, he felt a deep pain in his chest, pulling at ligaments and muscles, making him feel rather tired.
She had agreed to court that man. Without even talking to him. And now, she was out 'celebrating' with him, and she had readily agreed to simply leaving him behind. She had used a tone that she rarely used on him, and now, he felt as if all he had worked for was falling apart. What had he worked for? Why was he feeling like she had betrayed him?
"You baka," he murmured to himself. "You allowed your emotions to get wound around this girl, and now look. Better get uninvolved as soon as possible." And with that, he got to his feet and ambled down to the male quarters and slipped into his bed, falling into a deep, unbreakable trance. It was not sleep, for he could hear everything, but it gave him rest that he cared for.
"Inuyasha-san! Come join us, will you?"
Inuyasha recognized the voice as Raidon, acknowledged it was there, and promptly ignored it. "Inuyasha, don't do this. I know you feel like you're totally useless without guarding someone, but this is the time to bond with your fellow slaves, buddy."
Inuyasha managed to glare into Raidon's bright green eyes and turn away. He had no idea what he was feeling like. He did not feel useless. He just felt . . . blah. He wished desperately that he knew why, but he knew he would not find out while 'bonding with his fellow slaves' and he did not want to do that in the first place.
Raidon sighed down at the young hanyou and shook his head. Raidon respected the boy for his obvious power, and his attempts at learning how everything worked around here, but he did not respect him for his option to be a loner. It was not natural for a canine to run alone, and this boy was doing the unnatural.
Raidon turned back to Kouga, with whom he had been talking adamantly before Inuyasha had dragged himself into the room, as if he was exhausted. "Well, if the pup won't join us, we'll just have to ignore him," he said to the wolf, and Kouga chuckled dryly.
"Pup. Yeah, that's right."
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Kagome was not quite sure if she should ignore her throbbing instincts telling her to back away slowly, or if she should humor the slightly strange if good-natured young man before her.
"Please, Kagome-chan? It will be fun!"
Kagome glared up at what he was pointing at and her eyebrow rose delicately. She seriously doubted it. What was fun about sitting on a giant plastic monkey? Except for getting weird pictures taken, of course, which she was not in the mood for.
So far, this "celebration" was a complete disaster. He had taken her for a short meal, where she had nothing of her food because he had insisted on serving it himself and had tripped over his own two feet. He was very sweet about it and got her a frozen treat, only to have it melt over her clothing before she had more than half of it.
The park had been boring since she had nothing to speak of and Hojo was too shy to initiate an intimate conversation. But other than that, it had been fine.
Until now.
A couple hours later, exhausted and drained, she bid him farewell and entered her house, closing the door quietly. No one greeted her. She took in a deep breath and walked over to the table she ate at every day. At her place was a paper with a small note saying something about a doctor's visit and everyone. Sighing sadly, she stuck her head into the male's quarters and smiled to see a lump in Inuyasha's bed, softly rising and falling. Putting her purse on the ground outside the door, she walked over to him stealthily and examined his figure.
Asleep, he looked so innocent and childish. His ears twitched lightly and his breathing was low and steady. Silver hair partially covered his face and she pushed it aside lightly.
He groaned lightly and rolled over, the blankets falling from his chest as he did so. Kagome gasped quietly, but when it was obvious he was not awake, she could not help but stare openly. He was slender but muscular, hidden potential as her miko-trainer would have called it. Just like her. Hidden potential. Just because she was uncontrollable did not mean she was no good. She just had to control and then her potential would be revealed.
Slowly, Kagome reached out to touch his ears and rubbed lightly. His eyes fluttered but he remained asleep. Kagome rubbed again, savoring the soft fur on his ears, gentle circles enjoyed by her as much if not more than Inuyasha, if he had been awake. But his subconscious enjoyed it, letting out a deep, playful growl.
Kagome stifled her giggles and continued the stroking. The growl continued before Kagome stopped, afraid his own growls would awaken him. With a reluctant final stroke, she got up and pulled away from him. Unconsciously, he whimpered and let out a pleading whine.
Kagome nearly felt her heart rip to feel a tug pulling her back. She wanted to answer him, not afraid of waking him. But the other half did not want him to even know she had been in his room.
The latter of the two won with some debate and she trotted back up to her room. In her room, she got ready for a shower and changed. But while she did, she thought seriously.
Why would it matter so much that she answer his plea? She wanted to touch when she saw his bare chest. A hot rush of blood made her face red and she struggled to cool herself off. She was a female; surely she was allowed to think like that. What other girl would not?
She liked him.
The realization flowed over her like light in a sunrise, and she was at first frightened of it, but slowly, she decided she liked it. Yes, he was overbearing and arrogant and haughty, and sweet, and thought of her, and rescued her from bad situations, and was really cute.
Yet, she was sure he did not think the same. He was just possessive. That's all. She continually saw the hatred in his eyes as he looked at her, but he answered her. He did what she wanted, and did not openly defy her anymore.
And though she was glad for that, she wished suddenly for his fierce attitude she had seen in him. It was the attitude that appealed to her. She was sorry it had become hidden. She would do almost anything to get it back.
Kagome blushed as she realized what she was saying to herself, what she was admitting. She was in deep.
Just wonderful. She was courting a man that was totally hopeless, and she deeply liked her servant. This was not good.
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Inuyasha awoke to feel his ears awkward. A quick swipe made them feel normal and he sat up, stretching. He could hear the sounds of the family coming in, which he assumed had woken him.
Sunset had long past and he dressed himself in his haori, which he had somehow taken off before he fell asleep. Awake, he took in a deep breath and sighed. Kagome's scent was everywhere in the house, but for some reason, it smelled stronger in here.
Inuyasha sniffed again. He was definitely not imagining things. Kagome had been in here while he was asleep. Blushing, he sniffed to see what had happened. The only things touched were the bed, the door, and his ears. So that's why they had felt weird.
He trotted out of his room and nodded to the family, wiping sleep from his eyes. Silently, with the natural silence he possessed, he opened the door to Kagome's room. She was dead asleep in her bed, the window to the right of her bed open. Inuyasha watched her, his eyes drawn to the moonlit visage in the bed. She was still beautiful, even without the face paint. The moon light danced lightly on her face, making her face look smooth and clear. Her black hair spilled around her head on her pillow, looking like a dark halo. It glinted in the soft light, and he felt like he was in a dream.
On silent feet, he approached her, his eyes tracing over her face. She was beautiful, yes, but she was not his. She chose to court another. Besides, slaves were not allowed to court their masters.
It was a wild fantasy that had yet to come into words or even total being.
Sighing, he settled himself in the far corner and slipped into his half waking state he had known little this past while. But before, when he feared the Hunters, he had always slept like he did now.
A sharp gasp woke him and he opened his eyes quickly. A shadow was pulling itself into her room by the open window. It had stubbed something to gasp like that, and Inuyasha recognized the stench. Naraku.
Snarling under his breath, he stood up and waited as the shadow stood over Kagome's still form. Inuyasha was attacking the beast before the youkai could move any closer.
Naraku let out a cry of astonishment at Inuyasha's attack from the shadows, awaking Kagome. She cried in surprise and pulled away from the fight. Running feet sounded and Naraku turned to run as Inuyasha sent a final blow at his back. The youkai stumbled before he fell out the window, disappearing in the darkness.
Inuyasha was on his knees, his hands on Kagome's face in an instant. "Are you all right?" he murmured, fury still obvious at what Naraku nearly did. Kagome nodded and looked up at the door as half of the household appeared at the door. As Inuyasha noticed them, he pulled away, leaving Kagome's face burning in the sudden cold.
"What happened?" Master cried, entering the room after pushing through the protective guards who had come first in case the intruder attacked. He pulled Kagome into a hug and glared at the open window. "Did he not close the window?"
Kagome was quick to shake her head. "No! Father, I did it on my own. It's my own fault he got in. Inuyasha saved me, again."
Her father got to his feet and looked at Inuyasha, who had unconsciously drifted into the shadows again. A sharp piercing cry split the air before he could speak and the window revealed the picture of a terrifying neko hanyou attacking a dark shadow before it disappeared. Sayuri stopped, her head bowed, obviously trying to control her temper. Slowly, she turned around and met Inuyasha's eyes. She bowed, keeping her eyes locked on his, and then drifted away from the window's sight.
"What was that about?" Master demanded. Kagome shook her head and Inuyasha remained silent. "Why did she bow, Inuyasha?"
Inuyasha met the Master's eyes hesitantly. "I was proved right."
The Master slowly nodded and then stepped back. "I will talk to Sayuri, then, if you will not tell me more. Kagome, please, try to sleep again. Raidon, please stay here tonight, to help Inuyasha."
Kagome's father closed the window, instantly heating the over-populated room. He turned on a small, electric fan and then left, the kitsune following him to the door. From there, he bid the family good night and then settled down beside the door, closing his eyes and seemingly falling asleep.
Kagome wordlessly beckoned Inuyasha to sit on her bed. Hesitantly, he obeyed her. She sat beside him, her shoulders shaking and her face downcast. Inuyasha watched her for a moment before he reached a hand up and over her shoulders. "Kagome?"
"Oh, Inuyasha!" she sobbed suddenly and threw herself into his arms. Inuyasha blinked in surprise before he silently offered his comfort the best he could: a hug.
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"Are you sure?"
Kagome sat still in a chair near the kitchen opening, her legs swinging gently to the time of a rhythm only she heard. Inuyasha stood behind her, silent, as her father drilled the person on the other side of the phone in all they knew.
"What do you mean?" her father snapped, a slight snarl in his voice. "Well, find him already! What? Oh, well get someone on that!" A pause. "My daughter was attacked last night by his youkai! I want to speak with him." A longer pause, and when he continued, her father's voice was much softer. "I see. Please, hurry this up. I don't want her to get hurt." Another pause. "I understand. Yes, yes . . . We'll wait . . . Yes, we'll do that . . . Okay. Thank you, goodbye."
Slowly, her father hung up the phone and looked over at Kagome. "Well, it's mostly bad news, my dear."
Kagome swung her legs harder, digging her nails into her skin. A hand touched her shoulder. "Well, out with it!" A hard glare from both his masters made Inuyasha flinch. "Please?"
"Onigumo, Naraku's last master, was found unconscious in his own house, and the restraining spell for Naraku was found right next to him. As it so happens, Naraku disappeared after that. Last night with us was the last sighting of him."
Kagome's legs were flying and hard to determine from the chair's immobile legs.
"After that, he disappeared."
__________________________________________________________________
RECOMMENDATION:
DEAD FAMOUS: Kagome won a week with Inuyasha, the most wanted bachelor in all of Japan, but she doesn't like him. In fact, she down-right hates him. Great fic about the bad points of celebs and the "rich folk". Highly recommended. Of course, I'm sure you've all read it. Author of Dead Famous has over (not exaggerating) six THOUSAND reviews on this story. Mostly on how awesome it is.
Teaser:
__________________________________________________________________
"Okay, Kagome-chan, kiss," Sango paused dramatically, watching Miroku's brightening face as Inuyasha looked over at her darkly. "Kiss Inuyasha." Kagome looked at her in horror, mirroring her inu's expression. Oh, this was so cruel. "One more condition: you must kiss his lips." Everything seemed to stop.
__________________________________________________________________
Yet another review plea. Don't make me do something too stupid, please.
Okay, fine. You want stupid? You get it.
(Appears in scuba gear near a shark tank) I will swim through this if I get no reviews. Either that, or drop Inuyasha in it.
Inuyasha: HEY!!!
~ Kay Kylo
Because of that, shout outs are going to be long. (Cracks knuckles) Here we go. . .
Mucomi9: Thanks for the review! So, partially dedicated to you, since you gave me two of all my reviews, here it is, the next chapter.
Twistedreamer: Sweet name by the way. Glad you like it, and I cannot spell either. I just have spell check on my computer to help out. I'll update as much as I can, as I know I am very bad and update very little. Bad K.K., bad!
DanDanThe-omit-Man: When I read your name, I started to laugh, no offense meant. It's a cool name. I'll do my best to keep on writing, although I'm in a little bit of an author's block (grr)(Kay: little bit of an author's block? Ha! You are nuts!). Will work hard to get out last few chapters. . .
Katie: Will get you a challenge fic. Glad you like my story too! No problem reading the review either. I've gotten worse reviews in grammar and such than that.
Inu-babe666: Will read fanfics at some point . . . NEED to remember to do that. . . Happy Valentines wishes to you too, thanks for the wishes you gave me, sorry it's going so fast, trying to finish all before shower. . . Oh, and it is an Inu/Kag fic. Beyond a doubt, an Inu/Kag fic. I rarely write anything other than Inu/Kag. One Kou/Kag, but that was a song fic.
Miztikal-Dragon: Well, they could court, but they can't. Servants can't court masters, which WILL present a problem in the future. Don't worry, they will get together, but I'm not telling how. DO NOT FEEL ALONE!!! I have a million stories outlined in my head, but have yet to be written. Want some?
Mikono-Aries: You know, seeing Naraku in a towel has got to be one of the highest on my list of the scariest things. . . Oh, about the ukulele (I found the right spelling!!), I have no idea what it sounds like. We just have a very badly tuned one upstairs, and it sounds like twang, twang, pong, twang. Hope that helps.
W(): I do believe that is the first death threat I have ever gotten . . . But that's okay! I'll hope to update as soon as I can so that you do not have to handle that threat! ^_^
Puppkid: I will need to read the Switch then. I will. (Glowers at homework and scholarship junk) In time. I hope to have really good fics in my recommendation list. Because I want people reading only the best. My recommendation this time is on my fav list!
Banshee of Death: Ooh, deary me. You need another chapter, huh? Well, here you go. . . Right here. . . Keep reading then and do not twitch like that anymore. It scares me. Honest.
BrittBrat: Sorry, going to apologize right now: It's original. Okay, that part over. Unfortunately, I cannot keep going and going and going and going and going and going and going and going because my fingers will someday fall off and the plot line will be horrible. So, I'm going for a short story at eight chapters. (Gasp) Yes, eight chapters.
Starfire112: You like it. Good, good. Now, let's work on communication. . . (Joking, joking. . . ) Thanks for the review, and your approval is appreciated. Greatly. Very greatly.
Angelmoon14: Yes, yes, OOC is sort of expected by me for AU fics. It means their lives have not had the same background, so you can play a little bit with their personalities. Or I believe I can. Thanks for the praise! I love this gift I've been given!! ^_^
Evil Illusions: "Nicely written." (Tears) I LOVE IT!!! Thanks so much! And this quote too: "Good work". (Sob) Okay, I'm getting over the edge, but I really do appreciate the praise. It's a wonderful gift I've been given.
Blazingsunstar: Same thing everytime. BUT THAT'S OKAY!!! All reviews make me feel good. Thanks for thinking so highly of my fic! (^_^)
Out4Sesshomaru'sHead: By your name, I see your position on Sesshoumaru. (nods) Will beware of words then. And recommendations. Oh, thanks for even considering my story on your fav list! I'm honored every time someone does it. I'd be grateful if you do put my (pathetic) story on your list! THANKS!! (For reviewing too!)
Lyell: Um, by this time, she has seen him go human. I guess, in this time and in his position, no hanyou like Inuyasha could ever let his secret stay secret for long. So, Kagome probably knew. Besides, she's dealt with a hanyou most of her life: Sayuri. She probably knows a lot about the hanyou change, but thanks for reminding me of that little sitchy. . . I might bring it up later too! Thanks!!!
Lady Netiri: Thanks for the review! I'm glad you like my story, and I appreciate all pleasant requests. I usually try to end my reviews as you do, like that. Oh, I hope to continue as long as my outline lets me! Which reminds me . . . Chapter seven needs some story. . .
THE SHOUT OUTS ARE DONE AND YOU SHOULD STOP OR YOU WILL SCROLL THROUGH THE STORY!!!!!
_________________________________________________________________
Life's under no obligation to give us what we expect.
~Margaret Mitchell
_________________________________________________________________
This time, Inuyasha was not surprised when Kagome recovered from the attack quickly. She just seemed able to bounce back from that sort of thing fast. That was just how she was.
Even though, Inuyasha could feel his instincts starting to claim Kagome as his charge, his purpose, the one he needed to protect. And he accepted it openly. There was something about this little enchantress that just drew him, like metal to magnet. She was a little charmer, he supposed, in her free time. There was no other explanation. There was something about the life that she displayed, the courage, the fire, and above all, the kind nature.
He could count on his right hand the number of times he had been sat purposely. She always corrected him when he made a mistake, instead of restraining him. She refused to restrain him when she was certain he did the right thing with what he knew at that time, and he was grateful for it.
Though he did not like what was happening any other way. He found himself smiling when she looked his way, did a small favor for him, or even simply said his name. He was starting to notice when she wore a new outfit, and if it looked good on her or not. He was starting to notice the soft changes in her scent with different emotions. It was as if a veil had been lifted from his eyes, a covering from his nose, and plugs from his ears.
She was weakening him, and he liked it.
But he was afraid of one thing: the courtship issue. Nothing had come up, but then again, it was early, even though her mother was pushing for a courtship with a young man up the street, who was well on his way to political greatness.
And that was when it happened. Inuyasha was nearest the door when it rang, and he winced once again. That darn thing was so high pitched it ripped his ears off. He heard Kagome call out something, and even though he did not comprehend it, he could guess what it was.
And he obeyed her, opening the door slowly, willing his hearing to come back. On the doorstep was the young man that had dared to call his mistress 'Kagome-chan' and live at the party, and he was speaking. Very quietly.
"You'll have to speak up, Sir," he murmured, hoping he was not shouting. The boy looked puzzled before he spoke louder, and Inuyasha could catch his words.
"May I speak to Higurashi-san?"
"Higurashi-sama," he called quietly, knowing that if Higurashi-sama did not hear it, Kouga would and would alert her. "She'll be down in a moment."
"So, how is Kagome-chan?"
Inuyasha shot the cheeky boy a glare and allowed the strange man to enter their home. "She's recovered fine, if that is what you meant."
"Good. Ah, ohayo Higurashi-san. I would like to speak to you and your lovely daughter, if you would not mind."
Inuyasha caught the inflection in his tone and felt his annoyance rise to anger. A low growl started in his chest, and only he knew it was there; he felt it more than heard it.
"Come with me, it would be a pleasure to have you join us for a light lunch, if you wish?" Higurashi-sama said, a pleasant but tired smile on her face. "Kagome will be down in a moment."
Inuyasha knew from his scent what he wanted, and he hated it with all of his heart. There was no way, no how, not a chance that he would entrust his charge to this man. Never.
"Ah, Kagome-chan!" Inuyasha flinched at the term of familiarity, and he wished suddenly that his hearing was still obliterated by the doorbell.
"Hojo-san?" Oh, great, she knew him?
"Kagome-chan, I would like to ask you something. I have watched you for a long time, and when I saw you at the party, I thought you were the most beautiful thing I have ever encountered. And now, I come to ask if you would agree to let me love you for ever and always."
Kagome and Higurashi-sama stared at him in wonder before Inuyasha could not help blurting out, "he means, can he court you?"
Higurashi-sama broke out in laughs. "Of course he can. But may is a different matter. Kagome?"
Inuyasha suddenly felt his inu instincts racing up to control him. Kagome was his, and was not open for any man to take. "No way, no how, not ever," he snapped, glaring pointedly at Kagome and Hojo. There was just something about Hojo that he did not like.
"What?" Hojo cried, as if he was expecting her guardian to remain silent in such a big event as this. "Why does he speak as if he owns this place?"
"Inuyasha," Kagome began sweetly, and Inuyasha knew he was going to receive pain with that tone. "I know that we said you could have a say, and you have. Now, can you please leave us for a while?" Grumbling, he moved up the staircase and disappeared from view, but she knew he would listen to each word with rapt attention.
"Please, Kagome-chan, ignore your guardian's horrible idea of sense and allow me to court you!" Hojo pleaded, and Kagome could not help but relent. He was pulling the puppy dog eyes on her, and she hated them, mainly because she could not withstand them for long. Besides, it was just courting. She could always break it off.
"Only if it fits around my schedule," she said quietly. "I need to worry about school and training, as well as have time for homework and practice, and-"
"Wonderful Kagome-chan! Let us spend the afternoon together in celebration! Leave your guardian here," he said, waving to the stairs. Kagome could not help but gawk at his language and idea, but with a reassuring look from her mother, she went with him.
Upstairs, Inuyasha had leaned back against the wall of Jii-chan-sama's room, and sat from that position. For some reason, he felt a deep pain in his chest, pulling at ligaments and muscles, making him feel rather tired.
She had agreed to court that man. Without even talking to him. And now, she was out 'celebrating' with him, and she had readily agreed to simply leaving him behind. She had used a tone that she rarely used on him, and now, he felt as if all he had worked for was falling apart. What had he worked for? Why was he feeling like she had betrayed him?
"You baka," he murmured to himself. "You allowed your emotions to get wound around this girl, and now look. Better get uninvolved as soon as possible." And with that, he got to his feet and ambled down to the male quarters and slipped into his bed, falling into a deep, unbreakable trance. It was not sleep, for he could hear everything, but it gave him rest that he cared for.
"Inuyasha-san! Come join us, will you?"
Inuyasha recognized the voice as Raidon, acknowledged it was there, and promptly ignored it. "Inuyasha, don't do this. I know you feel like you're totally useless without guarding someone, but this is the time to bond with your fellow slaves, buddy."
Inuyasha managed to glare into Raidon's bright green eyes and turn away. He had no idea what he was feeling like. He did not feel useless. He just felt . . . blah. He wished desperately that he knew why, but he knew he would not find out while 'bonding with his fellow slaves' and he did not want to do that in the first place.
Raidon sighed down at the young hanyou and shook his head. Raidon respected the boy for his obvious power, and his attempts at learning how everything worked around here, but he did not respect him for his option to be a loner. It was not natural for a canine to run alone, and this boy was doing the unnatural.
Raidon turned back to Kouga, with whom he had been talking adamantly before Inuyasha had dragged himself into the room, as if he was exhausted. "Well, if the pup won't join us, we'll just have to ignore him," he said to the wolf, and Kouga chuckled dryly.
"Pup. Yeah, that's right."
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Kagome was not quite sure if she should ignore her throbbing instincts telling her to back away slowly, or if she should humor the slightly strange if good-natured young man before her.
"Please, Kagome-chan? It will be fun!"
Kagome glared up at what he was pointing at and her eyebrow rose delicately. She seriously doubted it. What was fun about sitting on a giant plastic monkey? Except for getting weird pictures taken, of course, which she was not in the mood for.
So far, this "celebration" was a complete disaster. He had taken her for a short meal, where she had nothing of her food because he had insisted on serving it himself and had tripped over his own two feet. He was very sweet about it and got her a frozen treat, only to have it melt over her clothing before she had more than half of it.
The park had been boring since she had nothing to speak of and Hojo was too shy to initiate an intimate conversation. But other than that, it had been fine.
Until now.
A couple hours later, exhausted and drained, she bid him farewell and entered her house, closing the door quietly. No one greeted her. She took in a deep breath and walked over to the table she ate at every day. At her place was a paper with a small note saying something about a doctor's visit and everyone. Sighing sadly, she stuck her head into the male's quarters and smiled to see a lump in Inuyasha's bed, softly rising and falling. Putting her purse on the ground outside the door, she walked over to him stealthily and examined his figure.
Asleep, he looked so innocent and childish. His ears twitched lightly and his breathing was low and steady. Silver hair partially covered his face and she pushed it aside lightly.
He groaned lightly and rolled over, the blankets falling from his chest as he did so. Kagome gasped quietly, but when it was obvious he was not awake, she could not help but stare openly. He was slender but muscular, hidden potential as her miko-trainer would have called it. Just like her. Hidden potential. Just because she was uncontrollable did not mean she was no good. She just had to control and then her potential would be revealed.
Slowly, Kagome reached out to touch his ears and rubbed lightly. His eyes fluttered but he remained asleep. Kagome rubbed again, savoring the soft fur on his ears, gentle circles enjoyed by her as much if not more than Inuyasha, if he had been awake. But his subconscious enjoyed it, letting out a deep, playful growl.
Kagome stifled her giggles and continued the stroking. The growl continued before Kagome stopped, afraid his own growls would awaken him. With a reluctant final stroke, she got up and pulled away from him. Unconsciously, he whimpered and let out a pleading whine.
Kagome nearly felt her heart rip to feel a tug pulling her back. She wanted to answer him, not afraid of waking him. But the other half did not want him to even know she had been in his room.
The latter of the two won with some debate and she trotted back up to her room. In her room, she got ready for a shower and changed. But while she did, she thought seriously.
Why would it matter so much that she answer his plea? She wanted to touch when she saw his bare chest. A hot rush of blood made her face red and she struggled to cool herself off. She was a female; surely she was allowed to think like that. What other girl would not?
She liked him.
The realization flowed over her like light in a sunrise, and she was at first frightened of it, but slowly, she decided she liked it. Yes, he was overbearing and arrogant and haughty, and sweet, and thought of her, and rescued her from bad situations, and was really cute.
Yet, she was sure he did not think the same. He was just possessive. That's all. She continually saw the hatred in his eyes as he looked at her, but he answered her. He did what she wanted, and did not openly defy her anymore.
And though she was glad for that, she wished suddenly for his fierce attitude she had seen in him. It was the attitude that appealed to her. She was sorry it had become hidden. She would do almost anything to get it back.
Kagome blushed as she realized what she was saying to herself, what she was admitting. She was in deep.
Just wonderful. She was courting a man that was totally hopeless, and she deeply liked her servant. This was not good.
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Inuyasha awoke to feel his ears awkward. A quick swipe made them feel normal and he sat up, stretching. He could hear the sounds of the family coming in, which he assumed had woken him.
Sunset had long past and he dressed himself in his haori, which he had somehow taken off before he fell asleep. Awake, he took in a deep breath and sighed. Kagome's scent was everywhere in the house, but for some reason, it smelled stronger in here.
Inuyasha sniffed again. He was definitely not imagining things. Kagome had been in here while he was asleep. Blushing, he sniffed to see what had happened. The only things touched were the bed, the door, and his ears. So that's why they had felt weird.
He trotted out of his room and nodded to the family, wiping sleep from his eyes. Silently, with the natural silence he possessed, he opened the door to Kagome's room. She was dead asleep in her bed, the window to the right of her bed open. Inuyasha watched her, his eyes drawn to the moonlit visage in the bed. She was still beautiful, even without the face paint. The moon light danced lightly on her face, making her face look smooth and clear. Her black hair spilled around her head on her pillow, looking like a dark halo. It glinted in the soft light, and he felt like he was in a dream.
On silent feet, he approached her, his eyes tracing over her face. She was beautiful, yes, but she was not his. She chose to court another. Besides, slaves were not allowed to court their masters.
It was a wild fantasy that had yet to come into words or even total being.
Sighing, he settled himself in the far corner and slipped into his half waking state he had known little this past while. But before, when he feared the Hunters, he had always slept like he did now.
A sharp gasp woke him and he opened his eyes quickly. A shadow was pulling itself into her room by the open window. It had stubbed something to gasp like that, and Inuyasha recognized the stench. Naraku.
Snarling under his breath, he stood up and waited as the shadow stood over Kagome's still form. Inuyasha was attacking the beast before the youkai could move any closer.
Naraku let out a cry of astonishment at Inuyasha's attack from the shadows, awaking Kagome. She cried in surprise and pulled away from the fight. Running feet sounded and Naraku turned to run as Inuyasha sent a final blow at his back. The youkai stumbled before he fell out the window, disappearing in the darkness.
Inuyasha was on his knees, his hands on Kagome's face in an instant. "Are you all right?" he murmured, fury still obvious at what Naraku nearly did. Kagome nodded and looked up at the door as half of the household appeared at the door. As Inuyasha noticed them, he pulled away, leaving Kagome's face burning in the sudden cold.
"What happened?" Master cried, entering the room after pushing through the protective guards who had come first in case the intruder attacked. He pulled Kagome into a hug and glared at the open window. "Did he not close the window?"
Kagome was quick to shake her head. "No! Father, I did it on my own. It's my own fault he got in. Inuyasha saved me, again."
Her father got to his feet and looked at Inuyasha, who had unconsciously drifted into the shadows again. A sharp piercing cry split the air before he could speak and the window revealed the picture of a terrifying neko hanyou attacking a dark shadow before it disappeared. Sayuri stopped, her head bowed, obviously trying to control her temper. Slowly, she turned around and met Inuyasha's eyes. She bowed, keeping her eyes locked on his, and then drifted away from the window's sight.
"What was that about?" Master demanded. Kagome shook her head and Inuyasha remained silent. "Why did she bow, Inuyasha?"
Inuyasha met the Master's eyes hesitantly. "I was proved right."
The Master slowly nodded and then stepped back. "I will talk to Sayuri, then, if you will not tell me more. Kagome, please, try to sleep again. Raidon, please stay here tonight, to help Inuyasha."
Kagome's father closed the window, instantly heating the over-populated room. He turned on a small, electric fan and then left, the kitsune following him to the door. From there, he bid the family good night and then settled down beside the door, closing his eyes and seemingly falling asleep.
Kagome wordlessly beckoned Inuyasha to sit on her bed. Hesitantly, he obeyed her. She sat beside him, her shoulders shaking and her face downcast. Inuyasha watched her for a moment before he reached a hand up and over her shoulders. "Kagome?"
"Oh, Inuyasha!" she sobbed suddenly and threw herself into his arms. Inuyasha blinked in surprise before he silently offered his comfort the best he could: a hug.
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"Are you sure?"
Kagome sat still in a chair near the kitchen opening, her legs swinging gently to the time of a rhythm only she heard. Inuyasha stood behind her, silent, as her father drilled the person on the other side of the phone in all they knew.
"What do you mean?" her father snapped, a slight snarl in his voice. "Well, find him already! What? Oh, well get someone on that!" A pause. "My daughter was attacked last night by his youkai! I want to speak with him." A longer pause, and when he continued, her father's voice was much softer. "I see. Please, hurry this up. I don't want her to get hurt." Another pause. "I understand. Yes, yes . . . We'll wait . . . Yes, we'll do that . . . Okay. Thank you, goodbye."
Slowly, her father hung up the phone and looked over at Kagome. "Well, it's mostly bad news, my dear."
Kagome swung her legs harder, digging her nails into her skin. A hand touched her shoulder. "Well, out with it!" A hard glare from both his masters made Inuyasha flinch. "Please?"
"Onigumo, Naraku's last master, was found unconscious in his own house, and the restraining spell for Naraku was found right next to him. As it so happens, Naraku disappeared after that. Last night with us was the last sighting of him."
Kagome's legs were flying and hard to determine from the chair's immobile legs.
"After that, he disappeared."
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RECOMMENDATION:
DEAD FAMOUS: Kagome won a week with Inuyasha, the most wanted bachelor in all of Japan, but she doesn't like him. In fact, she down-right hates him. Great fic about the bad points of celebs and the "rich folk". Highly recommended. Of course, I'm sure you've all read it. Author of Dead Famous has over (not exaggerating) six THOUSAND reviews on this story. Mostly on how awesome it is.
Teaser:
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"Okay, Kagome-chan, kiss," Sango paused dramatically, watching Miroku's brightening face as Inuyasha looked over at her darkly. "Kiss Inuyasha." Kagome looked at her in horror, mirroring her inu's expression. Oh, this was so cruel. "One more condition: you must kiss his lips." Everything seemed to stop.
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Yet another review plea. Don't make me do something too stupid, please.
Okay, fine. You want stupid? You get it.
(Appears in scuba gear near a shark tank) I will swim through this if I get no reviews. Either that, or drop Inuyasha in it.
Inuyasha: HEY!!!
~ Kay Kylo
