Author's Rant:
Hello people! I'm back with another fic that might for some odd reason; change your perspective of Sango and Miroku. I just hope that the same support that readers gave my other fic, 'Teach Me How to Love' can also be given to this, or much more.
This fic is actually inspired by Tackey and Tsubasa's "Sayonara wa Ashita no Tame Ni" and Hamasaki Ayumi's "Dearest" and "No More Words." The Inuyasha Soundtrack I downloaded was useful, inspiring and to some extent, became my meditation music [the WIND Soundtrack, I mean].
And some additional notes. I have made this chapter EXTRA long. As in. I didn't really see it fit to be divided into two, that's why I posted it this long. And do you guys like side pairs? I really don't know if I should continue this as I developed this chapter's story. So if you like it to be purely Sango and Miroku -- and Sango and Miroku ALONE -- then tell me, okay? It's nice to know what you all think. (Because honestly, I'm a KougaxKagura/KaguraxSesshomaru/SesshomaruxKikyo fan too.) Confusing, ne? I am too!!! bangs head against the mirror
Oh, gomen to all who thought that I wasn't replying to reviews! Actually the previously posted version of this chapter was the one I wrote when I wasn't even posting it, so my PC kind of messed up in its synchronization with the Pocket PC, which I use to write my chapters. A huge gomen again.
Another thing, I also thought about it, Aprill May... I SHOULD have it under the songs... So I've changed that and placed my review responses down there, and the translations of the songs below the Nihonggo lyrics...
.. Oh, I changed my mind, I'd rather use everything to my advantage now, so I'll just follow my sensei in her "use of suspense" mode... 0=P
Inuyasha19912 - Sad? Depressing? Oh, that's nice... I was actually in the dumps when I was struck by inspiration, you know. And poof -- a new fanfic. Thank you for reviewing! And also for adding me to your Author Alerts list!
Katani Masaya - Malice Mizer? You LOVE them too? swoons I especially loooove Gackt (when he was still with them) and Mana!!! And Kami and Klaha too! And about that shouts you did... Harhar... You'll be pleased with the next two chapters, I'm sure! Freak? Oh, then I'd be very happy to call you my friend because we ARE the same!!!
dd-inuyasha71643 - Hope you like this one! Thank you for reviewing! -
Kay-san1(ShinomoriMiyu - yep, its going to be a long story... And hey, I always forget to thank you for adding me to your Author Alert List/Favorite Authors list! Thanks really, a lot!!! I hope you enjoy this extra long chapter!
Waizu Yoru Ame Otome - thanks for that link, though I still haven't tried it... But I'm sure it'll work because a friend already used it. Angst is cool. As in COOL, KEWL, KAKKOI... Bwahaha. Why do I enjoy making them all suffer? I wonder... x.x This one's angsty too, so I'm sure you'll enjoy...
Mrryl - yeah... Unrealistic if the thought didn't even cross her mind, right? And I try my best to keep this as REAL as possible. Believe me, such things happen to teenagers even at the beginning of the adolescence stage... Take it from cover mouth oops... Thanks for reviewing!
Aamalie - driven... In a sense that they tend to be controlled by their emotions. Yeah, not everyone would know and say that but I do know... Always being at the receiving end and all... (nii-chan's are very good examples, and so are ex best friends...) Kagura? Oh yeah, it seems that my persona is kind of reflected in Kagura's now... mumbles something incoherent You know, I'm also sick of them now... Kono baka shounen... They just use you when you know you trust them with all of your life... And I read that one about Snapple-boi... Gah, I'm feeling shy all of a sudden... Adult issues at 12? Oh believe me, many teenagers experience that. But not all teenagers are that honest when it comes to such situations... I should know... Sweet Tooth was honestly... Sweet gah... I mean, bringing CAVITIES in my teeth shrugs Weird, ne? That homework of yours should be trashed into oblivion! brings out a lighter and a bottle of fuel Mwahahahaha!!! x.x Sometimes I wonder why Kami-sama didn't create us smart enough, but then again... I DO know the reasons... Gah. I'm rambling again... But don't worry; you have my word that I'll wait for your works even at the expense of eating the one thing that makes me throw up... No, honest! halo appears on top of my head Thank you very much!
Aprill May - there you have it! I also figured it'd be easier that way, just as vocabulary words should be given before hand... Kind of a prerequisite for the readers to be able to understand much. And still... That quadruple space that I also did was very useless and just adds up to the size of the file itself. And currently different things are cramping my own hard disk space... (PV's and videos of L'ArcenCiel, Gackt, Dir en Grey, Do As Infinity, Tackey and Tsubasa, etc... Mp3s of different languages [would you believe that I'm kind of swimming in the boundaries of being a Filipino and a Japanese and a Chinese? x.x] and lots of other stuff related to Anime and J-Rock/J-Pop/K-Rock) so I'm really trying to reduce all those, a few bytes would help. As for constructive criticisms, no, no... That's a far cry from flaming an author. Flames don't give authors something productive and inspiring (though I'd say it will be a challenge). In all honesty, I don't see any point in reviewing a fiction/work that you didn't really like. A talented writer? Am I? giggles Really now... 0=P You are too! And no... Long reviews especially amuse me, very much... which adds up more inspiration... Thank you for reading!!! Suicidal tendencies are very difficult to get out of the systems. Oh, and you better update "Void" soon! And did I get that right; your tanjobi is on April 2? Wow! We have to celebrate; I'm also born on April 2!!! squeals Why do I have a feeling that many writers celebrate their birthdays on the same date...? Oh well, a very belated o-tanjobi omedetou to you (and me)!
--ME - that's one weird id... Are you suffering from Multiple Personality Disorder of some sort? Because honestly I think I am... I sometimes black out then wake up not knowing what really happened, so I look like an idiot to ask whatever I did... Geez, scary sometimes, but I kind of like the feeling of having another person inside me because I kind of have difficulty dealing with everything, and its nice to vent out my frustrations when its on another persona... I just realized that I was kind of sick when I read Sidney Sheldon's novel. As of now I have a feeling that I'm healing because I felt like that other person -- if there is one -- is now aware and I am trying to accept it. Doctors say it might be some kind of defense mechanism that I developed when I... Never mind! About those issues, ah, believe me, they happen to teenagers that early... You'll eventually understand the 'acts' when I get to those chapters... and I think those previews are not of what you think... yet. Just wait and see, you might be mistaken, after all. Thanks for always reviewing! And I'm looking forward to your profile, ha? =D
misakichi1 - unfortunately, MirSan fluff is in about... Gah. I don't really know... But I promise that there'll be a dozen boxes of fluff in the making! But for now... Please accept my humble offering... sighs It's still sad, though... Thanks for reading and adding me to your Author Alerts/Favorite Authors list!
Inuyasha: Sengoku o Togi Zoushi © Takahashi Rumiko, Shogakukan, YOMIURI TV Sunrise 2000. Territories apply.
And before I forget, be warned of some things that I used in this chapter that I really don't know how to refer to... I'm but human and I don't know everything, you know... ;;;
Chapter Rating: PG-13
Anata no Tame Ni By Shohoku no Miko
Chapter Four:
Of Miroku: Feigning Indifference
Shizuka na ame ni Yasashiku nureru Nanika o motome Sonno kawari Boku wa ai o nakusu...
As I lie awake at night, Listening to this quiet rain, As I bow my head in prayer, My wish is that This burning emptiness inside would heal...
Beautiful Alone, Seki Tomokazu, Koyasu Takehito, Miki Shinichirou, and Yuuki Hiro
(You know, one could actually sing the translation in tune with the song...)
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
Miroku slammed his car door shut as he jumped in and hastily stirred his engine into life. 'Shit!' He cursed as the motor coughed and died at once. At this rate, he won't be able to make it in time!
Kagome was crying when she phoned him. The moment her voice came in from the other end, he knew that she was trying her best to calm down and tell him that there was something wrong. Inuyasha's voice can be heard at the background, swearing and shouting curses along the lines of 'What the fuck did you do to her?' and 'God damn it, go to hell Miroku!' It was almost hard to understand Kagome but in the end the girl got her message through clearly.
The moment he dropped the call he quickly made his way to his black Jaguar and then this. Was destiny finally chasing him? Was it finally coming and nagging him to pay the price of his past liabilities with Sango?
Was it finally coming to take away everything from him?
At first he thought he already had everything he needed, experienced EVERYTHING one wished to have, but now everything he did came back to him...
The car engine finally spurred into life and he stepped on the gas at once, speeding his way towards the other side of the city.
He will make it. He HAS to make it before...
He cursed again as an intersection with a stoplight came into view, and the light changed from green to red. He shamelessly accelerated his car and ignored the road sign, disrupting the rush hour traffic and leaving vehicles honking and drivers complaining of his bad sense of traffic.
"Argh, screw those traffic rules!" He mumbled. There were lives far more important than what those traffic signs and criminal laws want him to do.
Come to think of it, was there any law that prohibited Sango to...
'What the hell...?' He thought as a vehicular accident between a van and a ten-wheeler truck stalling the traffic greeted his vision once he turned into a corner. Add the huge drops of rain knocking on his windshield; he couldn't possibly reach his destination in time.
Destiny IS doing everything to get back at him for Sango.
But he won't give up -- and on her -- that easily.
"Sango... Hang on..."
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
You're Eiri Miroku, right? Takarai Sango's best friend?
I know who did this to Sango. It's Kagayami Naraku and you have to believe me. I once belonged to him and I suffered the same. Don't worry I'll do everything to prove them that your friend is not what she was said to be. But do be careful, he has a whole bunch of brothers in his fraternity that'll readily beat you. Wait for the right opening and I'll inform you about it. All I ask is your trust.
Just trust me and I won't let you or Sango down. Let's just say that this is my graduation gift for the two of you.
==
Miroku stared at the black ceiling brought to life by the glow-in-the-dark galaxy Sango placed on his room as a birthday present when he was nine, while it stared back at him almost mockingly. Sango once said that looking at the glowing stars and planets could help if he found it hard to sleep, but it wasn't too effective. It was difficult to get some sleep now. After an exhausting and a very disappointing yet full of hope day, his black and white covers seemed very inviting, but that mysterious note that bore a message from an anonymous person almost gave him strength to run and challenge Naraku into a fistfight despite the warnings given.
The letter was neatly folded into three, and was sealed in a tangerine envelope. On the front, written in a very artistic and articulate script -- probably to cover up a familiar person's calligraphy -- was his name, Eiri Miroku, in black ink. The paper inside was also of the same shade, and there was no indication, or a hint, from whom it was from. The only thing besides the contents of the letter was something on the bottom right that looked like a rough sketch that resembled flowers... Anemone, to be precise.
But still, who would that mysterious person be?
He already asked their faithful butler, Akagi Hachi, if he saw who placed that letter in the letterbox. He got a negative. He tried talking to his younger brother, Shippou, but he was in the Higurashis that afternoon, playing video games with Souta. He also asked his Oshou-sama, Moushin, who ran the next door shrine if he, by chance, was outdoors for most of the time he was away that afternoon. All he got was a shake of the head and a charm against stalkers. 'It's definitely not a stalker,' he thought.
But how reliable is this person? Hell, he or she didn't even show up and made himself or herself known to him! Sure, almost everyone in their school knew where he lived. Well who wouldn't when your father owned the country's largest television station? Though he really didn't wish for what he had now, but sometimes being an Eiri had its disadvantages. And one is this -- letters from anonymous people ALWAYS fill their inbox.
But nonetheless, he had nothing to lose. All he was told to do was to wait for some kind of sign from that not-so-reliable source, not to go and fight Naraku. And even if all else fails, he could go to Inuyasha or Kagome and ask them to have Sango talk to him. Darn that rumor...
So maybe he was wrong. He was wrong when he chose to listen to those rumors that spread in school. He was wrong when he didn't hear out Sango's side. Heck, in any given angle, he was the bad guy!
But then again, he IS Sango's best friend. He knew how many boys in their class liked Sango. And after the exams, his guy pals asked him all about Sango. He told them everything he knew that wouldn't really hurt if he let others in to, and he was a witness to how many of them instantly became friends with Sango.
And in the worst sense, he can really see that she WAS flirting with those boys.
No! His heart reasoned. You knew her all these years, and with just a really lame gossip, you said goodbye and you left her to deal with it alone. Right. He abandoned her. But the thing is, why was he absorbed and too affected by those guys around her anyway? Especially of Takeda Kuranosuke and Kagayami Naraku?
Because, although he didn't admit it out loud, he was irritated of the fact that Sango's time was now divided between him, her friends, the SC work, the other suitors AND those two... Those persistent, pesky, too-damn- confident boys...
All right, he was JEALOUS. Actually, DYING of jealousy. But he knew he had no right to be. But on what grounds? He never restricted her and she never did that to him, but what is this? He felt as though he should watch over her more...
And in the deepest and darkest chambers of his heart, he knew all along the answer to his questions and actions... He likes her.
Yes, she did like him back, but only because they were childhood friends, playmates AND best friends. Right...
But what he felt was beyond those borders, and he knew that. But he chose to ignore it.
'I can't throw away everything we shared just because...' He chided in his mind. 'I can't... She's my best friend... And I have to bring her back. I must tell her I'm sorry...' Miroku said to himself as he closed his eyes and attempted to sleep.
The light rain continued to wash over the sleeping city of Osaka.
Sango sat at the back of the class, staring outside at the soccer field where the lower grades were playing. She knew Mr. Nakajima might reprimand her, but she can't stand the evil stares and mocking glances she was getting! Her only ally, Higurashi Kagome, sat in the middle of the room and is currently busy fending herself from the very dense but nice Hojou.
She sighed, and suddenly the skies became darker and there was a rumble from a distance. She looked at the soccer field and found it empty, with the sakura trees shaking violently with the breeze. The winds hit nearby establishments and she could tell it was a strong one. And for a strange reason, her surroundings quieted and all she could hear was the violent wind, as if whispering something... Calling her...
She opened the window and stared down at the ground. Their class was on the seventh floor, and she always thought that it was really high. But now as she looked at it, it didn't seem that high. She broke into a grin and tucked her hair behind her ears as she heard it again, like someone was calling her. 'It's easy... I can reach the ground... ' She brought her feet up and stepped on her desk and in an instant, jumped out of the window.
The feeling was good, really good. The cold wind kissed her cheeks, her surroundings turned into a very interesting swirl of colors, and she could see the ground waiting for her, with arms wide open; welcoming her.
She extended her arms outward and closed her eyes as a very cold sensation draped her hand. She was close to the ground already...
She was brought out of stupor when she felt a hand swat the cutter she held against her wrist. She looked down and saw that a pool of blood formed on her desk, and more blood oozed from her now uncovered wrist. She glanced at the person who stopped her from slicing through her skin again when she suddenly felt really cold and her world went into circles.
The last thing she saw was a pair of scarlet eyes looking at her, etched with worry and anger.
"She's fine now. She didn't lose too much blood. She'll be fine in a day's rest." The school nurse removed her eyeglasses and smiled at Sesshomaru, who in turn just nodded in understanding.
"Sango-chan...?" A voice from the door called tentatively, and Kagome went in to see her friend. "Ma'am, may I see her for a while?" She asked the nurse, who kindly agreed.
Sesshomaru glanced at the other girl standing on the other side of the infirmary, her right side against the window as she looked outside, where the graduation practices were being held. Who is this girl, anyway? The only friends of Sango that he knew were Kagome and of course Miroku, but this girl... She was concerned enough to bring her to the infirmary and wrap a handkerchief on Sango's wound to stop her loss of blood...
But then again, he rarely -- no, make that never -- mingled with her and her friends.
"What is your name?" He asked as he moved to stand in front of her.
The girl looked up at him, her ruby eyes almost questioning his gaze as she answered him. "Shintaku Kagura. Takarai Sango's classmate AND seatmate. And you must be...?"
"Takarai Sesshomaru, Sango's brother."
"A pleasure to meet you, Takarai Sesshomaru-san." Kagura bowed but showed the other person that she was not really fazed at the fact.
Sesshomaru was about to ask another question when the door burst open and a loud voice came, shouting "Sango!" He shook his head and looked away. Surely it was his idiot-of-a-brother, Inuyasha.
"What the hell happened to you?!" Inuyasha rushed to her bedside, almost knocking down Kagome.
"Hey, watch it!" Kagome snapped.
Inuyasha looked to his side and noticed a girl donning the same uniform and ID color Sango wore. "Who the hell are you anyway?" He retorted.
"Doesn't matter who I am. All that matters is you have an attitude problem!" She answered.
"Attitude problem? Well you need anger management, wench!"
"You could've said 'excuse me' in the first place!... And I'm not a wench, dork!"
"Are too... WENCH."
"Am not, BAKA!"
"Bitch!"
"Sissy!"
"Maa, maa. Calm down." Sango smiled faintly as both Inuyasha and Kagome looked at her. "Kagome-chan, Inuyasha. He's my brother." She told Kagome, who looked like she was going to explode. "Inuyasha, this is my friend, Higurashi Kagome and you'll be seeing a lot of her starting today."
Inuyasha face-faulted. "YOUR friend? This... Loud wench?"
Kagome seethed as she tried her best to hold in her anger. It wouldn't be nice if she showed Sango how pissed she was, it might just add to her stress. "I'm not a wench..." She retorted calmly. "... Dog..." She said under her breath.
"What the -- Oi, you fucking bitch. Don't ever call --"
"Young man as long as you're in this infirmary I suggest you stop saying those words otherwise I will be forced to send you out." The nurse interrupted. [a/n: Oh the irony of it all... Inuyasha is a 'dog' while he always calls Kagome a 'bitch'. Aren't bitches the women dogs? ]
"I'm apologizing for my brother's obscenity, ma'am." Sesshomaru spoke, purposely emphasizing the word 'obscenity,' while Inuyasha had smoke coming out of his... Dog-ears...?
"Keh." Inuyasha crossed his arms and held his nose high in the air.
Kagome, on the other hand, stuck her tongue out at him. "Bleh!"
Sesshomaru glanced at Kagome, amazed at how pissed his idiotic brother was and how easily he lost his cool due to her. He then turned to Kagura and bowed slightly. "Thank you again for bringing Sango in."
"Sure thing, no problem. I was to be held responsible for her anyway, since she is my seatmate..." Kagura replied when she returned the gesture. She forced a grin on her face and smiled at everyone as she walked towards the door. "I'll be going now. Stay healthy, Sango-san. Thank you, ma'am." She bowed and turned then went out of the infirmary.
'Stay tough, Miss goody-two shoes. My plans are for you and me and we'll prove to them that they're wrong and that Naraku can go to hell and rot into nothingness...' Kagura thought as she walked through the quiet corridors.
Looking at the windows she saw that the sky has turned orange, and only a few students were coming out of the now growing quiet school. She glanced at her watch and her eyes widened at the time.
5:17 P.M.
'Shit... Mom's going to kill me if I'm not home in twelve minutes!' Kagura broke into a sprint as she went to her lockers.
Sugimoto Kouga, a Grade Eight junior high school student, sat on the gutter of the gates of their junior high's elementary counterpart. He was never used to waiting, and almost every one of his friends knew that. But this tough guy was really one who had a thick head. He reiterated to Inuyasha for around ten times how short his patience was, but the idiot definitely was testing his limits. He should be thankful that many junior high girls were passing by and greeting him.
But that was an hour ago.
'That's it! I'm looking for him!' He laid his back on the sidewalk and reached his arms up to the sides of his head, lifted his lower body as he pushed upwards his torso, doing a Chinese get-up. That was the advantage of being of Chinese decent, being brought up and taught of the art of self- defense, and well... Let's just see if his parents would still be proud of his skills when they learned of what he does with it.
'That dog-turd...' He thought dryly as he entered the gates. However different his uniform may be from the students here he doesn't give a damn. 'I should've been sleeping by now, stubborn dog...' Around this time he should have been sleeping so he'd be well rested before heading to the park to skate board, but instead he was here in a school he once graduated in and hadn't visited for two years. Even if he wanted to check out the school, he can't. And wouldn't. He's going to look for Inuyasha so they could go home. He yawned a huge bear-yawn as he stretched his arms while he walked. "Hmmmmm..."
He didn't notice when a girl bumped into him and he suddenly opened his eyes. "Sorr--"
Water met fire as their eyes locked and in an instant, the girl snapped. "Watch where you're going, mister." The voice was edgy and dripping with sarcasm, and Kouga could see that the girl was in a very bad -- make that foul -- mood. The contortion of her face and the aura she emitted told him so.
"Hey, sorry girl. You weren't looking too." Kouga retorted as he reached down to pick up the fallen things from the girl. At least he could help cool off the hotheaded girl by doing a good deed.
"Oh, you're sorry? Sorry my ass, dumb ass. You know, all you guys are full of crap, trying to sweet talk any eligible female you met. Get out of my way!" She grabbed her things and rolled her eyes at him.
Ah, who was this girl? He could see she was quite a catch, but it was obvious she was not in a friendly mood. "Hey!" He managed to say as he was violently pushed out of the way. "You could have said thanks!" He shouted.
"No thanks!" The girl stalked off angrily and turned right the moment she got out of the school gates.
Kouga shrugged as he instinctively kicked the dirt in front of him, but his right foot met something hard. "Wha--" he looked down and there, staring back at him was a hardbound book face down on the ground. He picked it up and turned it while his eyes scanned the cover.
From the looks of it, the cover had a piece of reel and some stars and two masks with different faces, the title of the book embossed.
'A Stranger in the Mirror'
He flipped the pages using his thumb, as he stood glued to the spot for an unknown reason. And somehow, his sleepiness was slowly disappearing.
There was something peculiar with that girl, and it was almost as if she despised him when in fact they just met. He was scanning the book when he caught a glimpse of a neat handwriting on one of the pages. He stared at the script.
Property of Shintaku Kagura 214
'Shintaku Kagura... 214?' Kouga was perplexed as to how the girl acted towards him.
"Oi, I never saw you as the nerdy type this ten months we've been classmates." Inuyasha swung his fist at him in mock punch.
Kouga easily dodged the fist as he tucked the book between his body and left arm. "Inuyasha I TOLD you that--"
"You have a short span of attention and patience, yeah, yeah. My sister's just been in the friggin' clinic 'coz she fainted or something." Inuyasha retorted. "But she'll be fine. She's like a boy."
Kouga fixed the fold of his sleeves as he spat/threw the gum he was chewing on the trash bin around three meters away. "If I didn't have a younger sister I wouldn't have understood you and I would've slammed you into that bin. You should be thankful." He smiled cockily.
"Keh. Must be you who's slammed in there." Inuyasha answered back.
"Are you challenging me?"
"Bring it on, dude!"
"Inuyasha, I never thought I'd see you here." A third voice came, which made the two teens stop.
"Who're you?" Kouga asked rather smugly, frustrated at the interruption the person made. He could've beaten Inuyasha this time and could've finally become the gang's leader!
"Dude, no need to be all smug. This is Eiri Miroku." Inuyasha motioned to the third person as he got out of his fighting stance.
"Eiri Miroku. Nice to meet you." Miroku held out a hand towards Kouga, who merely stared at him.
"You Inuyasha's friend? I thought his friends were only those who're bad- mouthed." He purposely looked at Inuyasha who instantly fumed as he realized what his companion said.
"Sugimoto Kouga. Pleasure." He reached out and shook the hand held out before him.
"By the way, man. I didn't see you in the friggin' clinic a while ago." Inuyasha suddenly asked. He was looking for the moron the moment he entered that room that reeked of sick people, but Sesshomaru talking with a girl, a nurse, Sango on the bed and the loud wench greeted his sight. He was expecting to see Miroku there instead of that wench... Though in fairness, her scent and Sango's were still pleasant and kind of neutralized the hospital scent...
"Clinic? Who was in there?" Miroku asked. He definitely knew who was there. In fact, he was debating if he would carry her to the infirmary or let another person do it at that time when his best friend was lying on the floor unconscious, her blood pooled on her desk and staining her uniform.
Kouga saw the hesitation and the terrible effort on Miroku's part to act innocent. Oh. Something's up. He could tell. Miroku's eyes darted uneasily from Inuyasha to the tree, the ground, and other places else that could prevent him from looking him straight in the eye. His hands were fidgeting, and by the looks of it, he was hiding something.
... Something that he felt if Inuyasha gained knowledge about, he'd go on a rampage on Miroku. He had that foreboding feeling that it wasn't something that would be easy and would be much preferred to be kept. And it was something that will most likely cause Inuyasha to act violently towards Miroku. Not only him, but with everyone around him as well. And yes, he didn't want to have Inuyasha's anger veered at him. He may oftentimes challenge him despite their strong bonds, but him being angry for a reason AND going into a rampage is not something he'd willingly tolerate. Inuyasha is a formidable enemy as such, what more when driven to the edge? [a/n: See what I mean, Aamalie? ] At this point, he didn't want to see it... yet. Not when his fist was trembling uncontrollably due to fatigue. But Inuyasha's anger is the main concern at present.
And there. His anger IS coming.
"You mean you didn't know?" Inuyasha yelled. "Sango was brought there because she accidentally cut herself. I TOLD you to watch over her, right? Where were you, chasing your admirers?" He accused. Right now, Inuyasha's sister complex was getting the better off of him. He did entrust his sister to Miroku. What the hell just happened to that promise he gave him? Inuyasha could feel his anger rising. This feeling he was getting isn't really most comforting, and he didn't like it one bit.
Miroku did not like it either. "I was at Basketball practice, Inuyasha. I'm sorry, man. If I had known then..." Miroku drifted off. He had known all along, but he did not do anything about it. And he felt really ashamed of how he reacted. But he can't tell him the truth. Telling the truth would mean losing his trust, and risking his opportunity to make this whole situation right again. So he HAD TO make up a lie. And he just hoped that he'd fall for it...
Kouga could feel the tension in the air. In all honesty, he understood Inuyasha's feelings. Well, he would really be driven mad if something bad happened to Ayame, especially if she was under another person's care that promised to watch over her. But then again, Miroku had his reason. Although he really didn't know... 'Maybe Miroku and Inu's sis fought or something... Damn, I could be a psychologist.' He mentally mused. But he was definitely thankful it wasn't his sister on that situation, or else he might not understand himself. "Don't fuss about it, dude. Dog-turd's sister is fine now. Right, dog-turd? Let's go home now, Miroku, dog-turd..." Kouga smirked. He was right at calling him that because in an instant, the mood lightened and the tension vanished as Inuyasha's usual swearing filled the thick air.
"What the fuck did you say?"
Miroku shook his head as the three of them walked out of the school. He inwardly sighed. Now there were two persons to be careful of. Inuyasha might get suspicious about the two of them practically evading each other. If his -- and Sango's -- little act was suddenly busted, he'd regret it for the rest of his life. And Kouga... Once he knows, he'll most likely tell Inuyasha about it... What can he do to protect their secret?
"Hey dude, let's go to the arcade."
Miroku looked at the owner of the voice and saw Kouga's eyes looking back at him... knowingly, as if telling him that he'll distract Inuyasha for him while he settled everything.
Kouga ignored his sleep machine that came back and began nagging at him for not doing his usual afternoon nap, but he didn't really care. He just wants to enjoy torturing Inuyasha with his satirical comments, and at the same time find out a lot from the newcomer. This was only the first time he missed his cushioned floor that he always slept at. And there's always next time...
"Sure..." Miroku shot him a grateful look. Kouga responded by winking, which the great and high-density Inuyasha totally missed. That made him feel a bit relieved. At least, someone was indirectly helping him. And another burden was lifted from his shoulders. This Sugimoto guy IS someone he could trust...
"... Then I'll beat your ass, dorky!"
"That's hard to achieve, dude. I'm the greatest."
"I am!"
Miroku shook his head as the two supposed-to-be friends bickered in Front of him. 'And to think they're older than I am... Oh well...'
Sango plopped down on the sofa in their den and stretched her limbs as she yawned. At this rate, she'd explode! Mr. Nakajima insisted that she practice her valedictory speech, while Mr. Matsumoto pressured her to finish all the ongoing projects of the Council before she graduated. So she rushed from her tiring speech practice to the SC office to finish everything that should be accomplished before she turned over the responsibility to the lower grade members. And she went to the mall to drop off Himiko to the instruments store for readjusting, explored the whole mall to find a present for Kohaku's birthday, got Himiko from being fixed and went home...
... Only to find out that she still had to run an errand that her gangster of a brother left for her to do instead.
And the errand? To return the Pyrex bowl that Aunt Kasumi used when she gave them some putaneska five days ago. Their helper was about to return it three days ago when out of the blue Inuyasha announced that he was going to go skateboarding with his gang and Kouga and Miroku, and their mother told him to bring it instead. But it sat forgotten for the past three days. And now everyone in the house was busy preparing for a children's / business party (or some businessmen's children's party, to be exact) to be held after their graduation two days from now.
So she just tasked herself to do it. Besides, she had to remind their aunt about Kohaku's party, and the newly baked apple pie her mother baked also obliged her to go to the Eiri residence. Though she knew that chances are, she might encounter Miroku and be forced to talk to him, she didn't back out. 'Oh well. I just have to... ignore him.' She stood up and went down to the bar, where the bowl was placed in a plastic bag. Sango grabbed the bag and placed it in her backpack, wrapped sheets of aluminum foil on the now cool tray, carried it and went out of the house without even changing her uniform.
In less than five minutes an old but preserved house that once became the home of the daimyos of Feudal Japan came into view, near a three-story ancient tower. She used the backdoor and let herself in as the helper greeted her.
"Is Aunt Kasumi here?"
"Right this way, Sango-sama..." The helper led her in the house.
"Mou, there's no need for those formalities." She retorted as the helper nodded and made her sit in the den and went back to call the mistress of the house.
Sango still admired the different scrolls, paintings, figurines and bonsais sitting at every corner of the house even if she had seen it many times before. It was evident that the house had a traditional touch besides the contemporary furniture. The window was opened on the other side to let the wind circulate in the house. The sound of the bamboo hitting the stone as water passed through it made the atmosphere more traditional. The flickering rays of the sun indicated that it was near sunset, streaming orange and pink rays in the room, which made it look like an old movie. She leaned her head on the soft chair and let her mind relax, savoring the calming atmosphere.
A set of footsteps echoed from the stairs to her right, and she opened her eyes and looked up to see a shirtless, wide-eyed Miroku.
"S-S-Sango..." Miroku sputtered as he stumbled on wearing his black shirt that he held on his hand.
Miroku's mother chose that moment to enter the picture. "Sango-chan!" She greeted, and her gaze fell on her son, who was still trying to wear his shirt right. "Miroku! Shame on you! Even if Sango is your best friend ever since childhood she's still a visitor!"
"I know Hahaue. That's why I'm putting it on it right now..." He reasoned as he looked at Sango.
On the other hand, an inner battle was going on in Sango's mind. She didn't know if she should say something to Miroku just to not let his mother in. 'But then, if I said something, Miroku would think I forgave him already and it's not that easy... He wasn't even saying sorry yet!'
"Auntie, I'm here to return this. Thanks for the putaneska, it was great." She opened her backpack and brought out the bowl.
"Hahaue, I'll be going now... Ja!" Miroku slowly crept out of the den when his mother spoke.
"Where are you heading, young man? Off to skateboarding again?"
"N-No! That's tonight at seven thirty... I just... have to finish something... Ja!" He ran outside, escaping the clutches of his protective mother.
"Miroku! Miroku! Miroku!!!" His mother shouted after him, but there was no response. Then she turned to Sango. "Oh dear... You were saying?"
Sango felt relieved that Miroku was gone. At least, she was spared for the moment... "Oh! Hahaue told me to remind you..."
Sango walked towards the temple entrance from the side of the Eiri residence, and on her hand was a box of oatmeal and chocolate cookies that her Aunt Kasumi gave her as a graduation gift.
"Ah, Sango! Nice to see you here again. Advanced Congratulations on your graduation two days from now." The head monk of the shrine and Miroku's uncle, Moushin, greeted her.
"Oshou-sama! Good Afternoon... Thank you, but... How did you...?" Sango trailed off. But of course, someone told him and it was none other than --
"Miroku, of course." The old man smiled at her. "You know I saw him a whi -- "
"I-I-I b-better be going now, Oshou-sama. I mean, my Hahaue is already waiting for me and so are my brothers... You know them..." She grinned sheepishly, trying to mask her sudden evasion of the name and person. "... Overprotective and such worry freaks... Maybe next time I'll bring you some of my Hahaue's pies and we'd continue our chat. Goodbye, Oshou-sama..." She bowed respectfully.
"May Buddha bless you then, my child." Moushin responded. "Run along now, dear. It's getting dark and I'll have to close the shrine at six."
They parted ways and Sango walked towards the shrine's exit, taking her time in absorbing the very close encounter with nature. She glanced back at the three-story tower that became a monastery that housed monks and monks- in-training -- and a shrine at the same time -- towering above sakura and momiji trees that lined the entrance of the shrine. The leaves were rustled by the light breeze that blew them down the ground and past her, the blossoms' fragrance filling her nostrils. She followed a stray sakura that flew in front of her eye, and her gaze landed on a wall with a number of charms hanging on it. She remembered that the last time she said a prayer and offered it to Buddha was about three months ago...
She approached the stall where the wooden items were sold and bought one. She wrote her wish in small strokes, trying to fit the sentence she wrote.
I wish for strength tomorrow and the day after tomorrow as I face my schoolmates and as I deliver my speech...
She set down the pen and hesitated. Was there something else she wanted? She knew that all she could ask for was for the rumors be proven untrue and for the student body to accept her again, but then...
She grabbed the pen again and hastily wrote her wish and walked towards the wall. She closed her eyes and placed the wood against her forehead, prayerfully wishing. She opened her eyes and then...
"... Sango..." A soft, melodic voice called her and she glanced to her left.
There stood Miroku, holding an identical charm in hand with his hands poised in front of him. One could tell that he was about to pray too.
Sango was startled to see Miroku in a very unlikely place. She thought he was out there chasing skirts. She looked at him squarely, feeling the disguise she wore suddenly wearing off. She just stared at him and looked away as she hung the wood on the wall then stalked off.
"Sango-chan! Matte--" Miroku sighed when he saw her reactions. He then returned to saying his own prayer and he hung his prayer beside Sango's before he walked away and towards his house.
The whispers of two people whose silent wishes were written on the wood were gently blown by the wind, lifting them into the heavens. The strings of the two wooden charms overlapped and were twisted together by the gentle breeze as the wind rustled the charms and hit each other lightly, almost understanding both of them.
I wish Sango and I would be friends... The best of friends again...
My wish is for Miroku and I to be back to what we used to be...
Silently, streaks of pink, purple and orange hit the intertwined charms, the scent of the lighted incense of sandalwood lingering as the sun finally set.
...tsuzuku...
Author's Rant:
I told you it was EXTRA long! I couldn't resist hinting... Did you notice? Hope you did, and tell me what you want!
As per usual, I am sorry for all the errors committed in this chapter. The song was taken from the Weiss Kßeuz soundtrack, the Ending Theme of the series performed by Seki Tomokazu, Koyasu Takehito, Miki Shinichirou, and Yuuki Hiro.
Did you know that I once thought that the seiyuu Yuuki Hiro was my beloved Yukihiro, the drummer of L'ArcenCiel? Just random thoughts...
Please leave a review!
Ja, mata ne!
Shohoku no Miko©
Hello people! I'm back with another fic that might for some odd reason; change your perspective of Sango and Miroku. I just hope that the same support that readers gave my other fic, 'Teach Me How to Love' can also be given to this, or much more.
This fic is actually inspired by Tackey and Tsubasa's "Sayonara wa Ashita no Tame Ni" and Hamasaki Ayumi's "Dearest" and "No More Words." The Inuyasha Soundtrack I downloaded was useful, inspiring and to some extent, became my meditation music [the WIND Soundtrack, I mean].
And some additional notes. I have made this chapter EXTRA long. As in. I didn't really see it fit to be divided into two, that's why I posted it this long. And do you guys like side pairs? I really don't know if I should continue this as I developed this chapter's story. So if you like it to be purely Sango and Miroku -- and Sango and Miroku ALONE -- then tell me, okay? It's nice to know what you all think. (Because honestly, I'm a KougaxKagura/KaguraxSesshomaru/SesshomaruxKikyo fan too.) Confusing, ne? I am too!!! bangs head against the mirror
Oh, gomen to all who thought that I wasn't replying to reviews! Actually the previously posted version of this chapter was the one I wrote when I wasn't even posting it, so my PC kind of messed up in its synchronization with the Pocket PC, which I use to write my chapters. A huge gomen again.
Another thing, I also thought about it, Aprill May... I SHOULD have it under the songs... So I've changed that and placed my review responses down there, and the translations of the songs below the Nihonggo lyrics...
.. Oh, I changed my mind, I'd rather use everything to my advantage now, so I'll just follow my sensei in her "use of suspense" mode... 0=P
Inuyasha19912 - Sad? Depressing? Oh, that's nice... I was actually in the dumps when I was struck by inspiration, you know. And poof -- a new fanfic. Thank you for reviewing! And also for adding me to your Author Alerts list!
Katani Masaya - Malice Mizer? You LOVE them too? swoons I especially loooove Gackt (when he was still with them) and Mana!!! And Kami and Klaha too! And about that shouts you did... Harhar... You'll be pleased with the next two chapters, I'm sure! Freak? Oh, then I'd be very happy to call you my friend because we ARE the same!!!
dd-inuyasha71643 - Hope you like this one! Thank you for reviewing! -
Kay-san1(ShinomoriMiyu - yep, its going to be a long story... And hey, I always forget to thank you for adding me to your Author Alert List/Favorite Authors list! Thanks really, a lot!!! I hope you enjoy this extra long chapter!
Waizu Yoru Ame Otome - thanks for that link, though I still haven't tried it... But I'm sure it'll work because a friend already used it. Angst is cool. As in COOL, KEWL, KAKKOI... Bwahaha. Why do I enjoy making them all suffer? I wonder... x.x This one's angsty too, so I'm sure you'll enjoy...
Mrryl - yeah... Unrealistic if the thought didn't even cross her mind, right? And I try my best to keep this as REAL as possible. Believe me, such things happen to teenagers even at the beginning of the adolescence stage... Take it from cover mouth oops... Thanks for reviewing!
Aamalie - driven... In a sense that they tend to be controlled by their emotions. Yeah, not everyone would know and say that but I do know... Always being at the receiving end and all... (nii-chan's are very good examples, and so are ex best friends...) Kagura? Oh yeah, it seems that my persona is kind of reflected in Kagura's now... mumbles something incoherent You know, I'm also sick of them now... Kono baka shounen... They just use you when you know you trust them with all of your life... And I read that one about Snapple-boi... Gah, I'm feeling shy all of a sudden... Adult issues at 12? Oh believe me, many teenagers experience that. But not all teenagers are that honest when it comes to such situations... I should know... Sweet Tooth was honestly... Sweet gah... I mean, bringing CAVITIES in my teeth shrugs Weird, ne? That homework of yours should be trashed into oblivion! brings out a lighter and a bottle of fuel Mwahahahaha!!! x.x Sometimes I wonder why Kami-sama didn't create us smart enough, but then again... I DO know the reasons... Gah. I'm rambling again... But don't worry; you have my word that I'll wait for your works even at the expense of eating the one thing that makes me throw up... No, honest! halo appears on top of my head Thank you very much!
Aprill May - there you have it! I also figured it'd be easier that way, just as vocabulary words should be given before hand... Kind of a prerequisite for the readers to be able to understand much. And still... That quadruple space that I also did was very useless and just adds up to the size of the file itself. And currently different things are cramping my own hard disk space... (PV's and videos of L'ArcenCiel, Gackt, Dir en Grey, Do As Infinity, Tackey and Tsubasa, etc... Mp3s of different languages [would you believe that I'm kind of swimming in the boundaries of being a Filipino and a Japanese and a Chinese? x.x] and lots of other stuff related to Anime and J-Rock/J-Pop/K-Rock) so I'm really trying to reduce all those, a few bytes would help. As for constructive criticisms, no, no... That's a far cry from flaming an author. Flames don't give authors something productive and inspiring (though I'd say it will be a challenge). In all honesty, I don't see any point in reviewing a fiction/work that you didn't really like. A talented writer? Am I? giggles Really now... 0=P You are too! And no... Long reviews especially amuse me, very much... which adds up more inspiration... Thank you for reading!!! Suicidal tendencies are very difficult to get out of the systems. Oh, and you better update "Void" soon! And did I get that right; your tanjobi is on April 2? Wow! We have to celebrate; I'm also born on April 2!!! squeals Why do I have a feeling that many writers celebrate their birthdays on the same date...? Oh well, a very belated o-tanjobi omedetou to you (and me)!
--ME - that's one weird id... Are you suffering from Multiple Personality Disorder of some sort? Because honestly I think I am... I sometimes black out then wake up not knowing what really happened, so I look like an idiot to ask whatever I did... Geez, scary sometimes, but I kind of like the feeling of having another person inside me because I kind of have difficulty dealing with everything, and its nice to vent out my frustrations when its on another persona... I just realized that I was kind of sick when I read Sidney Sheldon's novel. As of now I have a feeling that I'm healing because I felt like that other person -- if there is one -- is now aware and I am trying to accept it. Doctors say it might be some kind of defense mechanism that I developed when I... Never mind! About those issues, ah, believe me, they happen to teenagers that early... You'll eventually understand the 'acts' when I get to those chapters... and I think those previews are not of what you think... yet. Just wait and see, you might be mistaken, after all. Thanks for always reviewing! And I'm looking forward to your profile, ha? =D
misakichi1 - unfortunately, MirSan fluff is in about... Gah. I don't really know... But I promise that there'll be a dozen boxes of fluff in the making! But for now... Please accept my humble offering... sighs It's still sad, though... Thanks for reading and adding me to your Author Alerts/Favorite Authors list!
Inuyasha: Sengoku o Togi Zoushi © Takahashi Rumiko, Shogakukan, YOMIURI TV Sunrise 2000. Territories apply.
And before I forget, be warned of some things that I used in this chapter that I really don't know how to refer to... I'm but human and I don't know everything, you know... ;;;
Chapter Rating: PG-13
Anata no Tame Ni By Shohoku no Miko
Chapter Four:
Of Miroku: Feigning Indifference
Shizuka na ame ni Yasashiku nureru Nanika o motome Sonno kawari Boku wa ai o nakusu...
As I lie awake at night, Listening to this quiet rain, As I bow my head in prayer, My wish is that This burning emptiness inside would heal...
Beautiful Alone, Seki Tomokazu, Koyasu Takehito, Miki Shinichirou, and Yuuki Hiro
(You know, one could actually sing the translation in tune with the song...)
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
Miroku slammed his car door shut as he jumped in and hastily stirred his engine into life. 'Shit!' He cursed as the motor coughed and died at once. At this rate, he won't be able to make it in time!
Kagome was crying when she phoned him. The moment her voice came in from the other end, he knew that she was trying her best to calm down and tell him that there was something wrong. Inuyasha's voice can be heard at the background, swearing and shouting curses along the lines of 'What the fuck did you do to her?' and 'God damn it, go to hell Miroku!' It was almost hard to understand Kagome but in the end the girl got her message through clearly.
The moment he dropped the call he quickly made his way to his black Jaguar and then this. Was destiny finally chasing him? Was it finally coming and nagging him to pay the price of his past liabilities with Sango?
Was it finally coming to take away everything from him?
At first he thought he already had everything he needed, experienced EVERYTHING one wished to have, but now everything he did came back to him...
The car engine finally spurred into life and he stepped on the gas at once, speeding his way towards the other side of the city.
He will make it. He HAS to make it before...
He cursed again as an intersection with a stoplight came into view, and the light changed from green to red. He shamelessly accelerated his car and ignored the road sign, disrupting the rush hour traffic and leaving vehicles honking and drivers complaining of his bad sense of traffic.
"Argh, screw those traffic rules!" He mumbled. There were lives far more important than what those traffic signs and criminal laws want him to do.
Come to think of it, was there any law that prohibited Sango to...
'What the hell...?' He thought as a vehicular accident between a van and a ten-wheeler truck stalling the traffic greeted his vision once he turned into a corner. Add the huge drops of rain knocking on his windshield; he couldn't possibly reach his destination in time.
Destiny IS doing everything to get back at him for Sango.
But he won't give up -- and on her -- that easily.
"Sango... Hang on..."
()()()()()()()()()()()()()()
You're Eiri Miroku, right? Takarai Sango's best friend?
I know who did this to Sango. It's Kagayami Naraku and you have to believe me. I once belonged to him and I suffered the same. Don't worry I'll do everything to prove them that your friend is not what she was said to be. But do be careful, he has a whole bunch of brothers in his fraternity that'll readily beat you. Wait for the right opening and I'll inform you about it. All I ask is your trust.
Just trust me and I won't let you or Sango down. Let's just say that this is my graduation gift for the two of you.
==
Miroku stared at the black ceiling brought to life by the glow-in-the-dark galaxy Sango placed on his room as a birthday present when he was nine, while it stared back at him almost mockingly. Sango once said that looking at the glowing stars and planets could help if he found it hard to sleep, but it wasn't too effective. It was difficult to get some sleep now. After an exhausting and a very disappointing yet full of hope day, his black and white covers seemed very inviting, but that mysterious note that bore a message from an anonymous person almost gave him strength to run and challenge Naraku into a fistfight despite the warnings given.
The letter was neatly folded into three, and was sealed in a tangerine envelope. On the front, written in a very artistic and articulate script -- probably to cover up a familiar person's calligraphy -- was his name, Eiri Miroku, in black ink. The paper inside was also of the same shade, and there was no indication, or a hint, from whom it was from. The only thing besides the contents of the letter was something on the bottom right that looked like a rough sketch that resembled flowers... Anemone, to be precise.
But still, who would that mysterious person be?
He already asked their faithful butler, Akagi Hachi, if he saw who placed that letter in the letterbox. He got a negative. He tried talking to his younger brother, Shippou, but he was in the Higurashis that afternoon, playing video games with Souta. He also asked his Oshou-sama, Moushin, who ran the next door shrine if he, by chance, was outdoors for most of the time he was away that afternoon. All he got was a shake of the head and a charm against stalkers. 'It's definitely not a stalker,' he thought.
But how reliable is this person? Hell, he or she didn't even show up and made himself or herself known to him! Sure, almost everyone in their school knew where he lived. Well who wouldn't when your father owned the country's largest television station? Though he really didn't wish for what he had now, but sometimes being an Eiri had its disadvantages. And one is this -- letters from anonymous people ALWAYS fill their inbox.
But nonetheless, he had nothing to lose. All he was told to do was to wait for some kind of sign from that not-so-reliable source, not to go and fight Naraku. And even if all else fails, he could go to Inuyasha or Kagome and ask them to have Sango talk to him. Darn that rumor...
So maybe he was wrong. He was wrong when he chose to listen to those rumors that spread in school. He was wrong when he didn't hear out Sango's side. Heck, in any given angle, he was the bad guy!
But then again, he IS Sango's best friend. He knew how many boys in their class liked Sango. And after the exams, his guy pals asked him all about Sango. He told them everything he knew that wouldn't really hurt if he let others in to, and he was a witness to how many of them instantly became friends with Sango.
And in the worst sense, he can really see that she WAS flirting with those boys.
No! His heart reasoned. You knew her all these years, and with just a really lame gossip, you said goodbye and you left her to deal with it alone. Right. He abandoned her. But the thing is, why was he absorbed and too affected by those guys around her anyway? Especially of Takeda Kuranosuke and Kagayami Naraku?
Because, although he didn't admit it out loud, he was irritated of the fact that Sango's time was now divided between him, her friends, the SC work, the other suitors AND those two... Those persistent, pesky, too-damn- confident boys...
All right, he was JEALOUS. Actually, DYING of jealousy. But he knew he had no right to be. But on what grounds? He never restricted her and she never did that to him, but what is this? He felt as though he should watch over her more...
And in the deepest and darkest chambers of his heart, he knew all along the answer to his questions and actions... He likes her.
Yes, she did like him back, but only because they were childhood friends, playmates AND best friends. Right...
But what he felt was beyond those borders, and he knew that. But he chose to ignore it.
'I can't throw away everything we shared just because...' He chided in his mind. 'I can't... She's my best friend... And I have to bring her back. I must tell her I'm sorry...' Miroku said to himself as he closed his eyes and attempted to sleep.
The light rain continued to wash over the sleeping city of Osaka.
Sango sat at the back of the class, staring outside at the soccer field where the lower grades were playing. She knew Mr. Nakajima might reprimand her, but she can't stand the evil stares and mocking glances she was getting! Her only ally, Higurashi Kagome, sat in the middle of the room and is currently busy fending herself from the very dense but nice Hojou.
She sighed, and suddenly the skies became darker and there was a rumble from a distance. She looked at the soccer field and found it empty, with the sakura trees shaking violently with the breeze. The winds hit nearby establishments and she could tell it was a strong one. And for a strange reason, her surroundings quieted and all she could hear was the violent wind, as if whispering something... Calling her...
She opened the window and stared down at the ground. Their class was on the seventh floor, and she always thought that it was really high. But now as she looked at it, it didn't seem that high. She broke into a grin and tucked her hair behind her ears as she heard it again, like someone was calling her. 'It's easy... I can reach the ground... ' She brought her feet up and stepped on her desk and in an instant, jumped out of the window.
The feeling was good, really good. The cold wind kissed her cheeks, her surroundings turned into a very interesting swirl of colors, and she could see the ground waiting for her, with arms wide open; welcoming her.
She extended her arms outward and closed her eyes as a very cold sensation draped her hand. She was close to the ground already...
She was brought out of stupor when she felt a hand swat the cutter she held against her wrist. She looked down and saw that a pool of blood formed on her desk, and more blood oozed from her now uncovered wrist. She glanced at the person who stopped her from slicing through her skin again when she suddenly felt really cold and her world went into circles.
The last thing she saw was a pair of scarlet eyes looking at her, etched with worry and anger.
"She's fine now. She didn't lose too much blood. She'll be fine in a day's rest." The school nurse removed her eyeglasses and smiled at Sesshomaru, who in turn just nodded in understanding.
"Sango-chan...?" A voice from the door called tentatively, and Kagome went in to see her friend. "Ma'am, may I see her for a while?" She asked the nurse, who kindly agreed.
Sesshomaru glanced at the other girl standing on the other side of the infirmary, her right side against the window as she looked outside, where the graduation practices were being held. Who is this girl, anyway? The only friends of Sango that he knew were Kagome and of course Miroku, but this girl... She was concerned enough to bring her to the infirmary and wrap a handkerchief on Sango's wound to stop her loss of blood...
But then again, he rarely -- no, make that never -- mingled with her and her friends.
"What is your name?" He asked as he moved to stand in front of her.
The girl looked up at him, her ruby eyes almost questioning his gaze as she answered him. "Shintaku Kagura. Takarai Sango's classmate AND seatmate. And you must be...?"
"Takarai Sesshomaru, Sango's brother."
"A pleasure to meet you, Takarai Sesshomaru-san." Kagura bowed but showed the other person that she was not really fazed at the fact.
Sesshomaru was about to ask another question when the door burst open and a loud voice came, shouting "Sango!" He shook his head and looked away. Surely it was his idiot-of-a-brother, Inuyasha.
"What the hell happened to you?!" Inuyasha rushed to her bedside, almost knocking down Kagome.
"Hey, watch it!" Kagome snapped.
Inuyasha looked to his side and noticed a girl donning the same uniform and ID color Sango wore. "Who the hell are you anyway?" He retorted.
"Doesn't matter who I am. All that matters is you have an attitude problem!" She answered.
"Attitude problem? Well you need anger management, wench!"
"You could've said 'excuse me' in the first place!... And I'm not a wench, dork!"
"Are too... WENCH."
"Am not, BAKA!"
"Bitch!"
"Sissy!"
"Maa, maa. Calm down." Sango smiled faintly as both Inuyasha and Kagome looked at her. "Kagome-chan, Inuyasha. He's my brother." She told Kagome, who looked like she was going to explode. "Inuyasha, this is my friend, Higurashi Kagome and you'll be seeing a lot of her starting today."
Inuyasha face-faulted. "YOUR friend? This... Loud wench?"
Kagome seethed as she tried her best to hold in her anger. It wouldn't be nice if she showed Sango how pissed she was, it might just add to her stress. "I'm not a wench..." She retorted calmly. "... Dog..." She said under her breath.
"What the -- Oi, you fucking bitch. Don't ever call --"
"Young man as long as you're in this infirmary I suggest you stop saying those words otherwise I will be forced to send you out." The nurse interrupted. [a/n: Oh the irony of it all... Inuyasha is a 'dog' while he always calls Kagome a 'bitch'. Aren't bitches the women dogs? ]
"I'm apologizing for my brother's obscenity, ma'am." Sesshomaru spoke, purposely emphasizing the word 'obscenity,' while Inuyasha had smoke coming out of his... Dog-ears...?
"Keh." Inuyasha crossed his arms and held his nose high in the air.
Kagome, on the other hand, stuck her tongue out at him. "Bleh!"
Sesshomaru glanced at Kagome, amazed at how pissed his idiotic brother was and how easily he lost his cool due to her. He then turned to Kagura and bowed slightly. "Thank you again for bringing Sango in."
"Sure thing, no problem. I was to be held responsible for her anyway, since she is my seatmate..." Kagura replied when she returned the gesture. She forced a grin on her face and smiled at everyone as she walked towards the door. "I'll be going now. Stay healthy, Sango-san. Thank you, ma'am." She bowed and turned then went out of the infirmary.
'Stay tough, Miss goody-two shoes. My plans are for you and me and we'll prove to them that they're wrong and that Naraku can go to hell and rot into nothingness...' Kagura thought as she walked through the quiet corridors.
Looking at the windows she saw that the sky has turned orange, and only a few students were coming out of the now growing quiet school. She glanced at her watch and her eyes widened at the time.
5:17 P.M.
'Shit... Mom's going to kill me if I'm not home in twelve minutes!' Kagura broke into a sprint as she went to her lockers.
Sugimoto Kouga, a Grade Eight junior high school student, sat on the gutter of the gates of their junior high's elementary counterpart. He was never used to waiting, and almost every one of his friends knew that. But this tough guy was really one who had a thick head. He reiterated to Inuyasha for around ten times how short his patience was, but the idiot definitely was testing his limits. He should be thankful that many junior high girls were passing by and greeting him.
But that was an hour ago.
'That's it! I'm looking for him!' He laid his back on the sidewalk and reached his arms up to the sides of his head, lifted his lower body as he pushed upwards his torso, doing a Chinese get-up. That was the advantage of being of Chinese decent, being brought up and taught of the art of self- defense, and well... Let's just see if his parents would still be proud of his skills when they learned of what he does with it.
'That dog-turd...' He thought dryly as he entered the gates. However different his uniform may be from the students here he doesn't give a damn. 'I should've been sleeping by now, stubborn dog...' Around this time he should have been sleeping so he'd be well rested before heading to the park to skate board, but instead he was here in a school he once graduated in and hadn't visited for two years. Even if he wanted to check out the school, he can't. And wouldn't. He's going to look for Inuyasha so they could go home. He yawned a huge bear-yawn as he stretched his arms while he walked. "Hmmmmm..."
He didn't notice when a girl bumped into him and he suddenly opened his eyes. "Sorr--"
Water met fire as their eyes locked and in an instant, the girl snapped. "Watch where you're going, mister." The voice was edgy and dripping with sarcasm, and Kouga could see that the girl was in a very bad -- make that foul -- mood. The contortion of her face and the aura she emitted told him so.
"Hey, sorry girl. You weren't looking too." Kouga retorted as he reached down to pick up the fallen things from the girl. At least he could help cool off the hotheaded girl by doing a good deed.
"Oh, you're sorry? Sorry my ass, dumb ass. You know, all you guys are full of crap, trying to sweet talk any eligible female you met. Get out of my way!" She grabbed her things and rolled her eyes at him.
Ah, who was this girl? He could see she was quite a catch, but it was obvious she was not in a friendly mood. "Hey!" He managed to say as he was violently pushed out of the way. "You could have said thanks!" He shouted.
"No thanks!" The girl stalked off angrily and turned right the moment she got out of the school gates.
Kouga shrugged as he instinctively kicked the dirt in front of him, but his right foot met something hard. "Wha--" he looked down and there, staring back at him was a hardbound book face down on the ground. He picked it up and turned it while his eyes scanned the cover.
From the looks of it, the cover had a piece of reel and some stars and two masks with different faces, the title of the book embossed.
'A Stranger in the Mirror'
He flipped the pages using his thumb, as he stood glued to the spot for an unknown reason. And somehow, his sleepiness was slowly disappearing.
There was something peculiar with that girl, and it was almost as if she despised him when in fact they just met. He was scanning the book when he caught a glimpse of a neat handwriting on one of the pages. He stared at the script.
Property of Shintaku Kagura 214
'Shintaku Kagura... 214?' Kouga was perplexed as to how the girl acted towards him.
"Oi, I never saw you as the nerdy type this ten months we've been classmates." Inuyasha swung his fist at him in mock punch.
Kouga easily dodged the fist as he tucked the book between his body and left arm. "Inuyasha I TOLD you that--"
"You have a short span of attention and patience, yeah, yeah. My sister's just been in the friggin' clinic 'coz she fainted or something." Inuyasha retorted. "But she'll be fine. She's like a boy."
Kouga fixed the fold of his sleeves as he spat/threw the gum he was chewing on the trash bin around three meters away. "If I didn't have a younger sister I wouldn't have understood you and I would've slammed you into that bin. You should be thankful." He smiled cockily.
"Keh. Must be you who's slammed in there." Inuyasha answered back.
"Are you challenging me?"
"Bring it on, dude!"
"Inuyasha, I never thought I'd see you here." A third voice came, which made the two teens stop.
"Who're you?" Kouga asked rather smugly, frustrated at the interruption the person made. He could've beaten Inuyasha this time and could've finally become the gang's leader!
"Dude, no need to be all smug. This is Eiri Miroku." Inuyasha motioned to the third person as he got out of his fighting stance.
"Eiri Miroku. Nice to meet you." Miroku held out a hand towards Kouga, who merely stared at him.
"You Inuyasha's friend? I thought his friends were only those who're bad- mouthed." He purposely looked at Inuyasha who instantly fumed as he realized what his companion said.
"Sugimoto Kouga. Pleasure." He reached out and shook the hand held out before him.
"By the way, man. I didn't see you in the friggin' clinic a while ago." Inuyasha suddenly asked. He was looking for the moron the moment he entered that room that reeked of sick people, but Sesshomaru talking with a girl, a nurse, Sango on the bed and the loud wench greeted his sight. He was expecting to see Miroku there instead of that wench... Though in fairness, her scent and Sango's were still pleasant and kind of neutralized the hospital scent...
"Clinic? Who was in there?" Miroku asked. He definitely knew who was there. In fact, he was debating if he would carry her to the infirmary or let another person do it at that time when his best friend was lying on the floor unconscious, her blood pooled on her desk and staining her uniform.
Kouga saw the hesitation and the terrible effort on Miroku's part to act innocent. Oh. Something's up. He could tell. Miroku's eyes darted uneasily from Inuyasha to the tree, the ground, and other places else that could prevent him from looking him straight in the eye. His hands were fidgeting, and by the looks of it, he was hiding something.
... Something that he felt if Inuyasha gained knowledge about, he'd go on a rampage on Miroku. He had that foreboding feeling that it wasn't something that would be easy and would be much preferred to be kept. And it was something that will most likely cause Inuyasha to act violently towards Miroku. Not only him, but with everyone around him as well. And yes, he didn't want to have Inuyasha's anger veered at him. He may oftentimes challenge him despite their strong bonds, but him being angry for a reason AND going into a rampage is not something he'd willingly tolerate. Inuyasha is a formidable enemy as such, what more when driven to the edge? [a/n: See what I mean, Aamalie? ] At this point, he didn't want to see it... yet. Not when his fist was trembling uncontrollably due to fatigue. But Inuyasha's anger is the main concern at present.
And there. His anger IS coming.
"You mean you didn't know?" Inuyasha yelled. "Sango was brought there because she accidentally cut herself. I TOLD you to watch over her, right? Where were you, chasing your admirers?" He accused. Right now, Inuyasha's sister complex was getting the better off of him. He did entrust his sister to Miroku. What the hell just happened to that promise he gave him? Inuyasha could feel his anger rising. This feeling he was getting isn't really most comforting, and he didn't like it one bit.
Miroku did not like it either. "I was at Basketball practice, Inuyasha. I'm sorry, man. If I had known then..." Miroku drifted off. He had known all along, but he did not do anything about it. And he felt really ashamed of how he reacted. But he can't tell him the truth. Telling the truth would mean losing his trust, and risking his opportunity to make this whole situation right again. So he HAD TO make up a lie. And he just hoped that he'd fall for it...
Kouga could feel the tension in the air. In all honesty, he understood Inuyasha's feelings. Well, he would really be driven mad if something bad happened to Ayame, especially if she was under another person's care that promised to watch over her. But then again, Miroku had his reason. Although he really didn't know... 'Maybe Miroku and Inu's sis fought or something... Damn, I could be a psychologist.' He mentally mused. But he was definitely thankful it wasn't his sister on that situation, or else he might not understand himself. "Don't fuss about it, dude. Dog-turd's sister is fine now. Right, dog-turd? Let's go home now, Miroku, dog-turd..." Kouga smirked. He was right at calling him that because in an instant, the mood lightened and the tension vanished as Inuyasha's usual swearing filled the thick air.
"What the fuck did you say?"
Miroku shook his head as the three of them walked out of the school. He inwardly sighed. Now there were two persons to be careful of. Inuyasha might get suspicious about the two of them practically evading each other. If his -- and Sango's -- little act was suddenly busted, he'd regret it for the rest of his life. And Kouga... Once he knows, he'll most likely tell Inuyasha about it... What can he do to protect their secret?
"Hey dude, let's go to the arcade."
Miroku looked at the owner of the voice and saw Kouga's eyes looking back at him... knowingly, as if telling him that he'll distract Inuyasha for him while he settled everything.
Kouga ignored his sleep machine that came back and began nagging at him for not doing his usual afternoon nap, but he didn't really care. He just wants to enjoy torturing Inuyasha with his satirical comments, and at the same time find out a lot from the newcomer. This was only the first time he missed his cushioned floor that he always slept at. And there's always next time...
"Sure..." Miroku shot him a grateful look. Kouga responded by winking, which the great and high-density Inuyasha totally missed. That made him feel a bit relieved. At least, someone was indirectly helping him. And another burden was lifted from his shoulders. This Sugimoto guy IS someone he could trust...
"... Then I'll beat your ass, dorky!"
"That's hard to achieve, dude. I'm the greatest."
"I am!"
Miroku shook his head as the two supposed-to-be friends bickered in Front of him. 'And to think they're older than I am... Oh well...'
Sango plopped down on the sofa in their den and stretched her limbs as she yawned. At this rate, she'd explode! Mr. Nakajima insisted that she practice her valedictory speech, while Mr. Matsumoto pressured her to finish all the ongoing projects of the Council before she graduated. So she rushed from her tiring speech practice to the SC office to finish everything that should be accomplished before she turned over the responsibility to the lower grade members. And she went to the mall to drop off Himiko to the instruments store for readjusting, explored the whole mall to find a present for Kohaku's birthday, got Himiko from being fixed and went home...
... Only to find out that she still had to run an errand that her gangster of a brother left for her to do instead.
And the errand? To return the Pyrex bowl that Aunt Kasumi used when she gave them some putaneska five days ago. Their helper was about to return it three days ago when out of the blue Inuyasha announced that he was going to go skateboarding with his gang and Kouga and Miroku, and their mother told him to bring it instead. But it sat forgotten for the past three days. And now everyone in the house was busy preparing for a children's / business party (or some businessmen's children's party, to be exact) to be held after their graduation two days from now.
So she just tasked herself to do it. Besides, she had to remind their aunt about Kohaku's party, and the newly baked apple pie her mother baked also obliged her to go to the Eiri residence. Though she knew that chances are, she might encounter Miroku and be forced to talk to him, she didn't back out. 'Oh well. I just have to... ignore him.' She stood up and went down to the bar, where the bowl was placed in a plastic bag. Sango grabbed the bag and placed it in her backpack, wrapped sheets of aluminum foil on the now cool tray, carried it and went out of the house without even changing her uniform.
In less than five minutes an old but preserved house that once became the home of the daimyos of Feudal Japan came into view, near a three-story ancient tower. She used the backdoor and let herself in as the helper greeted her.
"Is Aunt Kasumi here?"
"Right this way, Sango-sama..." The helper led her in the house.
"Mou, there's no need for those formalities." She retorted as the helper nodded and made her sit in the den and went back to call the mistress of the house.
Sango still admired the different scrolls, paintings, figurines and bonsais sitting at every corner of the house even if she had seen it many times before. It was evident that the house had a traditional touch besides the contemporary furniture. The window was opened on the other side to let the wind circulate in the house. The sound of the bamboo hitting the stone as water passed through it made the atmosphere more traditional. The flickering rays of the sun indicated that it was near sunset, streaming orange and pink rays in the room, which made it look like an old movie. She leaned her head on the soft chair and let her mind relax, savoring the calming atmosphere.
A set of footsteps echoed from the stairs to her right, and she opened her eyes and looked up to see a shirtless, wide-eyed Miroku.
"S-S-Sango..." Miroku sputtered as he stumbled on wearing his black shirt that he held on his hand.
Miroku's mother chose that moment to enter the picture. "Sango-chan!" She greeted, and her gaze fell on her son, who was still trying to wear his shirt right. "Miroku! Shame on you! Even if Sango is your best friend ever since childhood she's still a visitor!"
"I know Hahaue. That's why I'm putting it on it right now..." He reasoned as he looked at Sango.
On the other hand, an inner battle was going on in Sango's mind. She didn't know if she should say something to Miroku just to not let his mother in. 'But then, if I said something, Miroku would think I forgave him already and it's not that easy... He wasn't even saying sorry yet!'
"Auntie, I'm here to return this. Thanks for the putaneska, it was great." She opened her backpack and brought out the bowl.
"Hahaue, I'll be going now... Ja!" Miroku slowly crept out of the den when his mother spoke.
"Where are you heading, young man? Off to skateboarding again?"
"N-No! That's tonight at seven thirty... I just... have to finish something... Ja!" He ran outside, escaping the clutches of his protective mother.
"Miroku! Miroku! Miroku!!!" His mother shouted after him, but there was no response. Then she turned to Sango. "Oh dear... You were saying?"
Sango felt relieved that Miroku was gone. At least, she was spared for the moment... "Oh! Hahaue told me to remind you..."
Sango walked towards the temple entrance from the side of the Eiri residence, and on her hand was a box of oatmeal and chocolate cookies that her Aunt Kasumi gave her as a graduation gift.
"Ah, Sango! Nice to see you here again. Advanced Congratulations on your graduation two days from now." The head monk of the shrine and Miroku's uncle, Moushin, greeted her.
"Oshou-sama! Good Afternoon... Thank you, but... How did you...?" Sango trailed off. But of course, someone told him and it was none other than --
"Miroku, of course." The old man smiled at her. "You know I saw him a whi -- "
"I-I-I b-better be going now, Oshou-sama. I mean, my Hahaue is already waiting for me and so are my brothers... You know them..." She grinned sheepishly, trying to mask her sudden evasion of the name and person. "... Overprotective and such worry freaks... Maybe next time I'll bring you some of my Hahaue's pies and we'd continue our chat. Goodbye, Oshou-sama..." She bowed respectfully.
"May Buddha bless you then, my child." Moushin responded. "Run along now, dear. It's getting dark and I'll have to close the shrine at six."
They parted ways and Sango walked towards the shrine's exit, taking her time in absorbing the very close encounter with nature. She glanced back at the three-story tower that became a monastery that housed monks and monks- in-training -- and a shrine at the same time -- towering above sakura and momiji trees that lined the entrance of the shrine. The leaves were rustled by the light breeze that blew them down the ground and past her, the blossoms' fragrance filling her nostrils. She followed a stray sakura that flew in front of her eye, and her gaze landed on a wall with a number of charms hanging on it. She remembered that the last time she said a prayer and offered it to Buddha was about three months ago...
She approached the stall where the wooden items were sold and bought one. She wrote her wish in small strokes, trying to fit the sentence she wrote.
I wish for strength tomorrow and the day after tomorrow as I face my schoolmates and as I deliver my speech...
She set down the pen and hesitated. Was there something else she wanted? She knew that all she could ask for was for the rumors be proven untrue and for the student body to accept her again, but then...
She grabbed the pen again and hastily wrote her wish and walked towards the wall. She closed her eyes and placed the wood against her forehead, prayerfully wishing. She opened her eyes and then...
"... Sango..." A soft, melodic voice called her and she glanced to her left.
There stood Miroku, holding an identical charm in hand with his hands poised in front of him. One could tell that he was about to pray too.
Sango was startled to see Miroku in a very unlikely place. She thought he was out there chasing skirts. She looked at him squarely, feeling the disguise she wore suddenly wearing off. She just stared at him and looked away as she hung the wood on the wall then stalked off.
"Sango-chan! Matte--" Miroku sighed when he saw her reactions. He then returned to saying his own prayer and he hung his prayer beside Sango's before he walked away and towards his house.
The whispers of two people whose silent wishes were written on the wood were gently blown by the wind, lifting them into the heavens. The strings of the two wooden charms overlapped and were twisted together by the gentle breeze as the wind rustled the charms and hit each other lightly, almost understanding both of them.
I wish Sango and I would be friends... The best of friends again...
My wish is for Miroku and I to be back to what we used to be...
Silently, streaks of pink, purple and orange hit the intertwined charms, the scent of the lighted incense of sandalwood lingering as the sun finally set.
...tsuzuku...
Author's Rant:
I told you it was EXTRA long! I couldn't resist hinting... Did you notice? Hope you did, and tell me what you want!
As per usual, I am sorry for all the errors committed in this chapter. The song was taken from the Weiss Kßeuz soundtrack, the Ending Theme of the series performed by Seki Tomokazu, Koyasu Takehito, Miki Shinichirou, and Yuuki Hiro.
Did you know that I once thought that the seiyuu Yuuki Hiro was my beloved Yukihiro, the drummer of L'ArcenCiel? Just random thoughts...
Please leave a review!
Ja, mata ne!
Shohoku no Miko©