AN: I'm so sorry I took so long to update this Chapter!! Please forgive me!
I was just so busy trying to update another one of my fics; time flew right
by. I hope you like this. Thanks.
I want to thank prplpenguin56 for helping me write this fic. She's such an osm writer!
PLEASE READ MY LATEST FIC: WILLINGLY TAKEN. I need as much encouragement as possible.
Waiting
Chapter 4: More than She Seems!
Kagome watched the clock in growing anticipation, the second hand was slowly reaching the 12 with a click that could drive anyone mad. She hated algebra. She sat in the class, the professor was, as usual, droning on and on. Just a few more minutes and.
Bring!
. "I'm free!" Kagome immediately stood up and exited the classroom as many students did the same. She smiled with relief. Once she put her books away and collected her homework, she made her way to the front of the building dodging numerous groups of people that, fortunately, didn't notice her.
Kagome stopped suddenly when she spotted a specific flyer hanging on a nearby bulletin board. It was a small club for swordsmanship. She could feel an unknown force compelling her to sign up, as she stared at the yellow flyer. She didn't know why but she came to a firm decision to sign up. She nibbled at her pink pen lightly before quickly scribbling her name on the paper. She smiled to herself as she gave a firm, short nod and walked off. Sunlight was breaking through the hallways from windows as the metal doors slammed shut with an echo.
She was to meet at a dojo on 70th street the day after tomorrow at 5 p.m. She happily walked away humming slightly, intent on going home to give her mother the great news; she didn't even notice the two figures behind her as they followed her from a small distance.
---
Kurama was just about to exit the building, his usual admire group trailing behind him, yapping away as he, of course, just nodded and smiled in his charming yet fake way that sent the girls drooling. He stopped suddenly when he spotted Kagome by a bulletin board.
She seemed to have signed up for something. Once she left, he curiously went to see what she had signed up for. He had to escape from his fan group behind him. He was glad to find them bickering over something stupid.
He quickly glanced at the bright flyer and was surprised to find she had signed up for swordsmanship. Not many would, let alone a girl, sign up for such a club. Kurama added his name to the list right under Kagome's as he quickly cast a glance at his admirers 'Good, their distracted.' he thought as he quickly slid out of the building.
He began his walk home after saying his good byes to Yusuke, Kuwabara, and Kayko. His mind was racing about the club he had signed up for, and having it with Kagome. He could hold the smile that he gently gave at the thought of her.
He hadn't sensed Hiei's aura since school let out 'Hmm, maybe he went back to the Makai' he thought. Suddenly without warning, Hiei's voice telepathically rang in his head. Kurama stopped in his tracks.
"Fox, that ningen may be in danger. I was following her after sensing two more demon auras following close behind her; they blocked their minds some how. They must have known I could read thoughts. They planned this, only one thing can prevent me from reading others minds." He said.
Kurama was in shock as he quickly asked, "Where are you?"
"It seems she was heading toward the park. Just to tell you, I can already see she's avoiding home. She knows she's being followed."
"Hiei, if anything happens, protect her until I get there."
"Hn. Fine." Hiei closed the transmission. Kurama hid his books in some nearby bushes and made his way to the park at full speed.
----
Kagome could sense three demons following her, but only two of them seemed to mean any harm. She made it into a clearing where tall trees and bushy plants surrounded it. She turned swiftly, her eyes blazing. She didn't see anyone but she could still sense two demons. "Come out! I know you're here so just show yourselves!"
She watched as two figures, male, submerged from the bushes. She tensed. They were in humanoid forms, but not for long.
They suddenly turned into their demon forms. One was green with warts that had hairs poking out of each one. Kagome could see his greasy yellow hair from under the large helmet he wore. His long fangs seemed to drip with drool. He stood about four feet taller than her.
The other had a similar appearance. His skin was a dark maroon and had many scars. He wore a brown tunic. His hair was a muddy brown and seemed to be just as greasy as the other youkai standing next to him. He, too, had a helmet and was taller than her. The helmets, she could sense, were more than normal head-gear was. Both Helmets gave off an ominous power that reminded her of someone.
"What do you want?" She asked narrowing her eyes and fixing a glare on them.
"We want you and the power you hold!" One of them answered, his voice was crackling.
"No way! Leave now and you won't get hurt!" Kagome warned, immediately reaching up and griping the jewel around her neck. In fact, the jewel she was gripping was the legendary power, Shikon no Tama. It was a jewel that had the power to increase any yuokai's strength. Both Man and Demon sought after it. Kagome wasn't going to let them have it. She was the guardian of it and would protect it at any cost.
The demons laughed. Hiei, who watched close by, smirked. The bitch had guts he must admit.
"What can a puny human do?" The two ugly demons taunted.
"If I'm so puny then why do you want me?" She asked, still glaring.
"Our boss thinks you're 'powerful'." The other one stated as if it were a mere joke. He put an emphasis 'powerful', saying it sarcastically.
"Who's your boss?" Kagome asked. "Do I know him?"
The demon with green skin laughed coldly. "You know him, but he knows your weaknesses. He's offering you the chance to give up yourself and the power you hold now and not have to suffer later consequences."
"What the hell? I'm not giving you anything!" Kagome spat. "Who is he?!" She repeated her question.
The maroon youkai spoke, his voice in a low tone as if telling a legend. "He was once human but in giving his body to feed the hungry demons, they gave him strength, agility, and the power to shape shift. He became a hanyou. He had deceived others and killed many. He seeks the power of the jewel that you guard. You both have met long, long ago. He finds it amazing your still alive, miko! When he first saw you, he had mistaken you as Kikyou, but through the battles you fought against each other, he finds that you are even more powerful. He wants you and the Shikon no Tama! So give it up, you pathetic human!"
Kagome tensed with each part of the statement. 'It can't be! Naraku's alive?! Wait.we haven't killed him yet. In order for him to be dead we have to kill him! Damn him! Shit! I can't have him coming after me hear and in the feudal era!'
Kagome eyes flickered with anger. "Your boss says I'm powerful, correct? Well, he's right." She stated as she allowed her bag to slide off her shoulder. She held one hand above her head and the other at her side. She then positioned her fingers to seem like they were holding something. In seconds, a bow and a set of arrows were created by the concentrated energy of her miko abilities.
She aimed at her target and killed the green youkai. He had disintegrated in a mere 2 seconds. He didn't even see the arrow coming.
The maroon youkai stared at his brother's ashes. Hiei's eyes had widened. Kurama had arrived just in time to see it happen. He found Hiei and sat next to him in the tree watching.
"It appears she's more that she seems." Hiei said in a low whisper.
The maroon youkai snapped from his stupor and dashed at Kagome. The demon lashed out with sharp, dangerous claws. She dodged and used an inhuman speed to dodge a second attack. She kicked, successfully striking the large demon in the.sensitive spot. The demon cried out in pain. For Kagome, it was a good thing he was male. She backed away as the demon changed his howls of pain to that of rage.
His small black pupils swerved over to Kagome as she took on more step back. She still had her bow and arrows. Too blind to wait and too stupid to strategize he sprinted at her. His speed continued to increase. He wanted to spill her blood more than anything. Kagome notched an arrow speedily.
Kagome quickly fired but right before the arrow touched him, he threw a set of hidden daggers at her. He died instantly when the arrow had hit its mark in to center of his chest. Caught off guard, she was only able to dodge most of deadly knives but one had managed to slit the surface of her side. She cried out in pain.
She fell to her knees, clutching the offending wound. Kagome's eyes widened when she saw two remaining daggers coming at her. Kurama and Hiei left there perch in the tree and deflected the remaining daggers from hitting their target.
Kurama immediately went over to Kagome, who was holding her side in pain. She winced as she saw blood soaking her clothes from the wound.
"Kagome, are you okay?" Kurama quickly but gently pushed Kagome into a lying position.
"I'm fine Kurama. Thank you, both." Kagome glanced at the fire apparition.
"Stupid, human." Hiei scuffed.
"She dodged five of the seven arrows aimed at her. I would call her skilled." Kurama complimented. Kagome gave a weak but grateful smile. She was in too much pain to retort for herself. Kurama examined her wound as best as he could. He didn't take his attention from it as he talked.
"You shouldn't have gone to a secluded area." Kurama said. Kagome fought to stay conscious as the pain continued to build, but to no avail. She was letting down her mental barrier. She put her hand over her wound in hopes to stop the flowing. She tried sitting up but Kurama only pushed her back down. She glared at him.
Kurama removed her hand from her wound and placed a few seeds from his pouch on it. He watched as she began to heal, her miko powers helping the revival.
"She wanted to protect her family." Hiei said, grinning inwardly at the fact that he could pick her brain when she was vulnerable.
Kurama sighed. 'Of course.' He quickly stood with Kagome's limb body in his arms. Kagome slipped into unconsciousness.
"Well, I guess it's confirmed that she's no ordinary girl."
"Hn."
----
"Kenshin, I'm going to lend this to you." Kaoru held out an indigo blue ribbon to him while he sat on the log staring at it.
"But-" He started, however he was cut off.
"Just take it!" Kaoru yelled.
Kenshin quickly took the ribbon carefully into his hands. "Yes, ma'm."
"Now listen carefully, Kenshin. I'm ONLY lending this to you. You have to return it. So.so don't go off and forget.ok?" Kaoru's voice was becoming more and more shaky as she began to cry. However, she didn't allow any tears to come. The river behind her made splashing noises, as its rough current picked up, splashing water against the side of rocks. A few birds in nearby tress chirped in peaceful song.
'I know he has to leave but I don't want him to. If he does then.I won't have anyone there with me anymore. I always feel safe around him. With him I feel so well protected, like nothing horrible can happen to me.'
Kenshin sat a moment just staring at her with confused eyes. Then, he understood. Kaoru didn't want him to leave. He felt warm inside that someone would actually care for him; one of a dirty past and just a rurouni. An ache came to his chest when he thought about the chances of him living through the battle we would soon undergo.
He was asked to fight a swordsman named Jenae (sp?), who had appeared suddenly and began slaughtering imperialists. What was he to do? Allow people to continue being murdered or risk his life in hopes of stopping him? Without hesitation, he had chosen the last choice. He had vowed to protect the week, even at the cost of his own life. He sighed.
Being a skilled samurai from the revolution, he was a master at hiding his feelings. He smiled at Kaoru and nodded his head. She smiled back.
"Ok. Well-" Her words were cut off as Jenae appeared almost out of nowhere and snatched her! Being close to a river it was quite easy as he pulled her more close to him on the raft he sailed upon. Kenshin quickly got up, cursing himself for not seeing him.
"That's right, Kenshin, get angry. Use all that fury and bring back the Battousi I want to fight, the manslayer from the revolution! I assume this is your woman so I will take her. Come save her Kenshin, but bring the Battousi with you!" Jenae began to laugh hysterically.
Kaoru fought against his strong hold. 'No! This isn't happening! It can't be!!' She began to cry as his hold on her wrists tightened. She was able to push his hand, which covered her mouth back just a little.
"NO! Kenshin!" She cried. Jenae's hand came back this time holding even firmer in place.
"Kaoru! No! JENAE!!!!" Kenshin yelled in fury. Kaoru watched in horror as his eyes seemed to turn a dark red and his pupils grew to a small dot. His eyes.they were.they changed from the kind, gentle look to that of a killer. It frightened her more anything. She continued to try and resist but to no avail. For some reason, she felt like she could no longer breathe either.
"NO!!" Kagome sat up, breathing hard. She began looking around in fright. 'What happened?!'
"Kagome! What's wrong?" She turned to see Kurama sitting next to her.
"I.I." She began to suddenly cry. Kagome, herself, didn't know why. She only felt that she needed to. She pulled her knees to her chest and began to sob. Her heart ached. Who were those people constantly coming into her dreams? They seemed so familiar yet so foreign. She felt alone right now, as if she was the one kidnapped.
Kurama watched. He just sat, dumbfounded. Why was she crying? 'I could tell she was having a nightmare but.was it THAT frightening?' He changed his position to sit behind her. Without thinking, he wrapped his arms around Kagome in hopes that she would find comfort and cease crying. To his surprise, she leaned more close to him.
Kagome began to feel warm and safe. Why did she have the feeling of déjà vu? The feeling she received around Kurama seemed to match the same feeling Kaoru had with Kenshin. She stopped crying but stayed in Kurama's arms.
"Are you okay?" He whispered. Kurama tried to make his voice as gentle as possible. She nodded.
Feeling better she leaned back a little. Kurama was now face to face with her. He looked deep within her eyes. She couldn't help but do the same. For a moment, the only thing they could do was stare at each other. They, however, did not realize they were getting closer. Both their gazes were now on each other's lips. They were so close. Reality, unfortunately, kicked in and they separated from each other immediately.
A small silence hung in the air while both Kagome and Kurama tried their best to compose themselves. Each thinking the same thing, 'Did that really happen? Damn, so close!' Kurama was the first to break the silence.
"Would you like to go home, now?" He asked considerately.
"Yes, I would." Kagome replied. He nodded and reluctantly allowed her to stand up, no longer sitting by him on the couch.
He stood as well. They both made their way to the door and left. They walked side-by-side along the dark sidewalk. Kagome found herself walking closer and closer to Kurama. She hated the dark and was glad that he was there. She always felt safe with him.
Kagome was surprised to feel Kurama's arm wrap around her shoulders. She blushed deeply. She didn't notice that Kurama was also blushing.
Kagome sighed. She stopped walking and faced Kurama. She had to fix the confusion that had occurred earlier; besides, she could sense that fire apparition near.
"Kurama, call your friend out. I need to talk to both of you." Kurama seemed shocked at first but did so.
"Hiei, please show yourself." Kurama didn't take his eyes off Kagome who was looking at the ground.
Hiei appeared not a moment later. He took a position by Kurama. Kagome looked up with unshed tears.
"Kurama.Hiei, I'm sorry I have led you to believe I'm ordinary. I know that both of you are youkai. I also know that you, Hiei, have a Jagon eye that allows you to read the thoughts of others. Please, do not try using it on me anymore. I believe you already know that I'm a miko, but is there anything else you would like to know?"
Hiei seemed somewhat shocked but gave no emotional sign of it. He only replied with, "Hn." Kurama smiled. "Why are you so experienced with demons? Have you ever been to the Makai?"
"No, I haven't." Kagome was now confused. "Where's that?"
"I suppose you haven't if you don't know what it is." Kurama sighed.
Hiei spoke up. "Makai is the world of demons, created to hold all youkai so that humans could live in peace. Very few, other than the demons themselves, know of it, stupid human."
Kagome scowled. "It's not my fault. I may be human but I'm not lowly, nor stupid!"
"So where did you gain so much experience?" Kurama asked again.
Kagome seemed to hesitate with her answer. "Well.when I was fifteen I had fallen through a well located on my family shrine grounds. It turned out that the well was enchanted and was actually a portal to the feudal era. There I learned about demons and received miko training from Kaede who was a nearby village miko. I also made friends.a half demon named Inuyasha, a youkai exterminator named Sango, a kit named Shippo, and a monk named Miroku. I adopted Shippo due to the unfortunate murder of his parent. I am almost done with training as a miko while Sango is teaching me martial arts."
"Why did you continue to go there?" Hiei asked curiously. He wondered why a human girl would continually go to such a place, where demons were so vicious at times.
"Because it was my duty.you see, there was a powerful jewel called the Shikon no Tama but I had unfortunately broken it. The Shikon no Tama was a small sphere that could increase any demon's power ten fold. I am its rightful guardian and I must restore it." Kagome sighed. She hated it when she had to be this open. She wasn't sure what would happen.
"So that's one of the reasons why those two demons from earlier had attacked you?" Kurama asked.
Kagome nodded.
"I see. Well, lets get you home. It's getting late. Hiei, could you reach Koenma and review the information back to him?" Kurama spoke after a moment of silence.
Hiei gave a quick nod before vanishing.
"Kurama, I do have one question for you. Since I told you about me, I want to know about you. I can already tell that you and Hiei work together and I assume Kuwabara and Yusuke are also on your team, but what are you four all together?"
"Kagome, I'm sorry but I don't know if I have permission to tell you that." Kurama said. Kagome frowned but didn't push further. In hopes of lightening her spirits he said, "But I can tell you how I came to be in a human body?"
Kagome's frown turned into a smile instantly. Kurama found himself wanting to make her smile more often. Kurama and Kagome presumed their walking to her house. They fell into another lapse of silence. Kagome couldn't help but want to ask one more question. "Kurama, why are you in a human body when your definitely youkai?"
Kurama kept his view on the ground. "I am youkai but somewhat also human. Before you ask, no, I'm not a hanyou. I am a kitsune that has a bond with a human soul and so live in a human body. I was originally called Youko Kurama. That was when I had my own body and I wasn't at all human." Kurama paused for a moment before continuing. "I was forced to hide myself in a human body, sharing a soul with Shuuichi Minaminno (sp?), due to a group of hunters that did not cease to chase me."
Kurama sighed. "And so I am born. I'm Kurama. Half of me is Shuuichi while the other is Youko." He smiled. Kagome smiled back. "I understand. So your only option as Youko was to hide yourself or die running?" Kurama nodded. After a moment he chuckled. "You know what? I was actually a thief when I was Youko. I would steel all sorts of things. I was always drawn to beautiful things." He stopped to stare at Kagome for a second.
His eye began to shine a small hue of gold before returning back to it's dark green. Kurama began to have an argument with Youko while walking with Kagome.
"You want her!" Youko accused.
"So what if I do?!" Kurama mentally yelled as he admitted his feelings.
Youko was silent for a moment. "Well you don't have to get upset about it. I find myself more and more infatuated with her every moment I see her." Youko confessed.
Kurama mentally slapped himself on the head. "Baka."
"Well you can't really call me that because I am YOU, after all." Youko stated thoughtfully.
Kagome watched Kurama from the corner of her eye. She almost giggled when Kurama's expression turned to that of disgust. His face continued to change but he didn't notice. He seemed to be having a battle with himself mentally.
"You can't think like that, you pervert!!" Kurama scowled.
"And why not!? I think she's suitable. She has all the qualities of being a perfect mate! You're just afraid to ask her! Let me out and I'll do it, you baby!" Youko retorted.
"No chance! Even if she would be the perfect mate, she's human and humans have a much different tradition. The male doesn't just grab her and claim her like demons do. The female has to agree and there is a ceremony that goes with it!" Kurama blushed. He tried to keep his mind out of the gutter but it was quite hard.
He glanced at Kagome.
"Look at her, stupid! She's just waiting to be claimed! I want her!" Youko began to pout. "Look at her curves! Haven't you noticed that she's gorgeous!! Who knows what will happen? It's amazing that she's single right now!! We need to get her before some moron of a human does first!"
Kurama blushed again. "I'm not ready for an intense relationship unless she's ready herself."
"But I'm ready!!" Youko said with a whine hidden in his voice.
Kurama sighed. Kagome turned her head to him. "Kurama, we're here." Kurama was so busy fighting with Youko that he hadn't realized that they arrived at Kagome's home. They had by this time, walked the steps and were currently standing on her front porch.
Kagome turned the rest of her body to him. "Thank you for walking me home, Kurama." She leaned up without much thought and kissed him lightly on the cheek. Kurama could feel his cheeks heat up, especially where she kissed him.
Kagome was also blushing.
"My pleasure and if the award is the same every time, then I would love walking you home every day."
Kagome looked up surprised. 'Did he just say that?'
"Damn you, Youko!! Why did you make me say that?!!" Kurama screamed in his head while Youko began to laugh.
Kagome giggled lightly. "We'll see." She winked before going inside. He grinned as hope swelled up within him. In his mind Youko was leaping off every wall.
He walked home.a bounce in each step he took. Joy filled every part of him.
-------
"No, Kenshin! Don't!" Kaoru yelled. She broke Jenae's spell. She was suffocating but it ended the moment she fought with full force. The loss of most of her ogygen made her vision slightly blurred and her head dizzy. She began to fall from her sitting position.
Kenshin who was in the act of killing Jenae stopped and rushed to catch her.
"Kaoru-" He was cut off.
"No! You can't! You're not a manslayer any longer. You're Kenshin the rurouni. You vowed to never kill again, so don't!" Kaoru's eyes watered as tears fell freely. She was afraid. Kenshin held her in his arms. He gazed into her deep brown eyes.
He felt his old self as Battousi leave back to the shadows deep with in his soul. What had come over him? Kenshin began to realize everything. His rage had driven him to a blind madness only Battousi could live in. How could he have allowed that to happen? He pulled Kaoru a little closer, ignoring the searing pain in this arm where Jenae had managed to create an incision.
Kaoru took in huge gulps of breath, refilling her lungs from the pounding shock of Jenae's eyes. Her eyes widened when she saw Jenae pick up a sword. He raised it high as he was about to strike.
"Kenshin!" Kaoru cried. Kenshin turned just in time to see Jenae stab the sword through his heart. Blood gushed from the wound. Blood ran from his nose and the side of his mouth.
"Awe.Sweet death." Jenae said. He turned his attention to Kenshin who stood over him in shock.
"Don't give me that look. This is how a manslayer should die. Battousi is in every fiber of your being. Once a manslayer, always a manslayer. Remember that, Battousi." With those last words, Jenae's life completely ended.
Both Kaoru and Kenshin stared at the corpse for a moment longer. Kaoru broke the uneasy silence.
"Kenshin, don't worry. I'll take care of you." She smiled.
Even though in the back of Kenshin's mind, he had doubt, Kaoru's words warmed him. He felt more at peace. He watched as Kaoru ripped part of her kimono and bandaged his arm. He was thankful for her. Kaoru was there for him even though she was put through danger.
She wasn't afraid of him and didn't care about his past. She accepted him for who he was now and not before. Kenshin couldn't help but smile. He didn't want to admit it, but he felt himself falling in love with her. Kaoru was gentle yet rough. She was loyal and kind. Her morals and beauty drew him to her. Every part of him just wanted to protect her.
To keep her safe from any harm.to make her happy was his true desire in life.
Kurama woke up feeling great but recently he was having such strange dreams. He didn't understand who the people in his dreams were, yet they were so familiar. He found himself being able to relate to that young man, Kenshin. All he found himself wanting lately was to protect Kagome.
Shaking his head, he got out of bed and dressed. Today after school, he was going to that swordsmanship club. He couldn't help but feel a little excited about today. He ate breakfast and ran over to Kagome's house. Kurama waited at the end of the stairs. Kagome soon came along with no really hurry.
She smiled at Kurama as she made her way down to him. "Hey!"
"Hello! I'm glad to see your not falling down the steps today!" Kurama said jokingly. Kagome laughed a bit.
"Me too! I hate being clumsy." Kagome and Kurama laughed.
School had gone fairly well. Classes weren't too hard at all. Kurama quickly went home after parting with Kagome and got ready to go to the dojo down town. He wandered what Kagome's level of skill would be.
He arrived at the dojo early. After signing in with the instructor for the class he sat and waited. A few more guys arrived a moment later. He was surprised to see Yusuke and Kuwabara show up. He greeted them as they made their way over to him.
"Hey, Kurama!" Kuwabara waved.
"Hello." Kurama smiled.
"Kurama, did you know that Kagome also signed up for this class?" Yusuke asked.
"Yes, I did. She also told me more about herself." Kurama began to explain everything that had happened the other day. Kuwabara would sometimes interrupt but Yusuke would just smack his head and let Kurama continue.
"Wow! So that chick is supposed to be powerful?" Kuwabara asked.
"I guess, from what it sounds like, she is." Yusuke said. Just then, none other than Kagome walked into the dojo. In her hands she held a wooden practice sword. She signed in but the moment she finished a few guys who wanted to talk to the 'babe' surrounded her.
Kurama could feel anger and slight jealousy build within him.
------
"Hey, babe. Whatcha doing here?" Kagome looked up to see a tall young man smiling at her. His slick black hair seemed to be plastered to his head. He had dull, gray eyes. His behavior revealed the fact that he was a dumbass. She glared at him.
"My name is Kagome. I'm not 'Babe.' I'm here for the club. I want to practice swordsmanship." She said proudly.
Two more men came up but once they heard the last part of her sentence they began to laugh, the first man joining them.
"You've got to be kidding me!" One gasped out between laughs. "A girl can't do swordsmanship!"
Kagome temper began to flare. "And why not?! Women are just as talented as men.sometimes even better!" This only caused them to laugh harder.
With out warning, a pair of arms wrapped around her thin waist and pulled her back. "Come now. You're not serious. Why don't you just give up and try cheering me on. I would love to take you out sometime, sweetie." Kagome could almost puke. She swiftly turned and used the hilt of the sword to hit a pressure point between his shoulder and neck.
The rude young man was sent to the ground, unconscious. "I would rather die than encourage or EVER go on a date with you, you scumbag. There's no difference between you and the rats in the sewers."
The other two young men stood in surprise. They moved aside as she headed toward one of the mats to stretch on.
Kurama smirked. He wanted to laugh but refrained from doing so with difficulty. It didn't stop Kuwabara and Yusuke from snickering then rolling on the floor laughing all together.
Kagome seemed to be to intent on stretching to notice him. The club Instructor came in a moment later. He glanced at Kagome with a curious eye but did not ask any questions. Instructor decided to begin with two volunteers. Wanting to know how much skill Kagome had he decided to "choose" her and another student. He was interested to see how well she would do in fencing with another opponent. It was extremely rare that a female would want to learn swordsmanship. However, she seemed.different.
"I want Kagome Higurashi and.Shuuichi Minamino to have a small match in skill." Kagome seemed a little surprised to see Kurama. She quickly stood and made her way to the center of the mat where Kurama waited, smiling.
This would be some match..
TBC
AN: So, what do you guys think? I hope you liked this chapter. I wanted to write more but it was getting just a little long for my liking. Well, I'll try to update soon but please continue to encourage me. Review! Review, now!!!!!
"To Review or not to review?"-What a stupid question!
I want to thank prplpenguin56 for helping me write this fic. She's such an osm writer!
PLEASE READ MY LATEST FIC: WILLINGLY TAKEN. I need as much encouragement as possible.
Waiting
Chapter 4: More than She Seems!
Kagome watched the clock in growing anticipation, the second hand was slowly reaching the 12 with a click that could drive anyone mad. She hated algebra. She sat in the class, the professor was, as usual, droning on and on. Just a few more minutes and.
Bring!
. "I'm free!" Kagome immediately stood up and exited the classroom as many students did the same. She smiled with relief. Once she put her books away and collected her homework, she made her way to the front of the building dodging numerous groups of people that, fortunately, didn't notice her.
Kagome stopped suddenly when she spotted a specific flyer hanging on a nearby bulletin board. It was a small club for swordsmanship. She could feel an unknown force compelling her to sign up, as she stared at the yellow flyer. She didn't know why but she came to a firm decision to sign up. She nibbled at her pink pen lightly before quickly scribbling her name on the paper. She smiled to herself as she gave a firm, short nod and walked off. Sunlight was breaking through the hallways from windows as the metal doors slammed shut with an echo.
She was to meet at a dojo on 70th street the day after tomorrow at 5 p.m. She happily walked away humming slightly, intent on going home to give her mother the great news; she didn't even notice the two figures behind her as they followed her from a small distance.
---
Kurama was just about to exit the building, his usual admire group trailing behind him, yapping away as he, of course, just nodded and smiled in his charming yet fake way that sent the girls drooling. He stopped suddenly when he spotted Kagome by a bulletin board.
She seemed to have signed up for something. Once she left, he curiously went to see what she had signed up for. He had to escape from his fan group behind him. He was glad to find them bickering over something stupid.
He quickly glanced at the bright flyer and was surprised to find she had signed up for swordsmanship. Not many would, let alone a girl, sign up for such a club. Kurama added his name to the list right under Kagome's as he quickly cast a glance at his admirers 'Good, their distracted.' he thought as he quickly slid out of the building.
He began his walk home after saying his good byes to Yusuke, Kuwabara, and Kayko. His mind was racing about the club he had signed up for, and having it with Kagome. He could hold the smile that he gently gave at the thought of her.
He hadn't sensed Hiei's aura since school let out 'Hmm, maybe he went back to the Makai' he thought. Suddenly without warning, Hiei's voice telepathically rang in his head. Kurama stopped in his tracks.
"Fox, that ningen may be in danger. I was following her after sensing two more demon auras following close behind her; they blocked their minds some how. They must have known I could read thoughts. They planned this, only one thing can prevent me from reading others minds." He said.
Kurama was in shock as he quickly asked, "Where are you?"
"It seems she was heading toward the park. Just to tell you, I can already see she's avoiding home. She knows she's being followed."
"Hiei, if anything happens, protect her until I get there."
"Hn. Fine." Hiei closed the transmission. Kurama hid his books in some nearby bushes and made his way to the park at full speed.
----
Kagome could sense three demons following her, but only two of them seemed to mean any harm. She made it into a clearing where tall trees and bushy plants surrounded it. She turned swiftly, her eyes blazing. She didn't see anyone but she could still sense two demons. "Come out! I know you're here so just show yourselves!"
She watched as two figures, male, submerged from the bushes. She tensed. They were in humanoid forms, but not for long.
They suddenly turned into their demon forms. One was green with warts that had hairs poking out of each one. Kagome could see his greasy yellow hair from under the large helmet he wore. His long fangs seemed to drip with drool. He stood about four feet taller than her.
The other had a similar appearance. His skin was a dark maroon and had many scars. He wore a brown tunic. His hair was a muddy brown and seemed to be just as greasy as the other youkai standing next to him. He, too, had a helmet and was taller than her. The helmets, she could sense, were more than normal head-gear was. Both Helmets gave off an ominous power that reminded her of someone.
"What do you want?" She asked narrowing her eyes and fixing a glare on them.
"We want you and the power you hold!" One of them answered, his voice was crackling.
"No way! Leave now and you won't get hurt!" Kagome warned, immediately reaching up and griping the jewel around her neck. In fact, the jewel she was gripping was the legendary power, Shikon no Tama. It was a jewel that had the power to increase any yuokai's strength. Both Man and Demon sought after it. Kagome wasn't going to let them have it. She was the guardian of it and would protect it at any cost.
The demons laughed. Hiei, who watched close by, smirked. The bitch had guts he must admit.
"What can a puny human do?" The two ugly demons taunted.
"If I'm so puny then why do you want me?" She asked, still glaring.
"Our boss thinks you're 'powerful'." The other one stated as if it were a mere joke. He put an emphasis 'powerful', saying it sarcastically.
"Who's your boss?" Kagome asked. "Do I know him?"
The demon with green skin laughed coldly. "You know him, but he knows your weaknesses. He's offering you the chance to give up yourself and the power you hold now and not have to suffer later consequences."
"What the hell? I'm not giving you anything!" Kagome spat. "Who is he?!" She repeated her question.
The maroon youkai spoke, his voice in a low tone as if telling a legend. "He was once human but in giving his body to feed the hungry demons, they gave him strength, agility, and the power to shape shift. He became a hanyou. He had deceived others and killed many. He seeks the power of the jewel that you guard. You both have met long, long ago. He finds it amazing your still alive, miko! When he first saw you, he had mistaken you as Kikyou, but through the battles you fought against each other, he finds that you are even more powerful. He wants you and the Shikon no Tama! So give it up, you pathetic human!"
Kagome tensed with each part of the statement. 'It can't be! Naraku's alive?! Wait.we haven't killed him yet. In order for him to be dead we have to kill him! Damn him! Shit! I can't have him coming after me hear and in the feudal era!'
Kagome eyes flickered with anger. "Your boss says I'm powerful, correct? Well, he's right." She stated as she allowed her bag to slide off her shoulder. She held one hand above her head and the other at her side. She then positioned her fingers to seem like they were holding something. In seconds, a bow and a set of arrows were created by the concentrated energy of her miko abilities.
She aimed at her target and killed the green youkai. He had disintegrated in a mere 2 seconds. He didn't even see the arrow coming.
The maroon youkai stared at his brother's ashes. Hiei's eyes had widened. Kurama had arrived just in time to see it happen. He found Hiei and sat next to him in the tree watching.
"It appears she's more that she seems." Hiei said in a low whisper.
The maroon youkai snapped from his stupor and dashed at Kagome. The demon lashed out with sharp, dangerous claws. She dodged and used an inhuman speed to dodge a second attack. She kicked, successfully striking the large demon in the.sensitive spot. The demon cried out in pain. For Kagome, it was a good thing he was male. She backed away as the demon changed his howls of pain to that of rage.
His small black pupils swerved over to Kagome as she took on more step back. She still had her bow and arrows. Too blind to wait and too stupid to strategize he sprinted at her. His speed continued to increase. He wanted to spill her blood more than anything. Kagome notched an arrow speedily.
Kagome quickly fired but right before the arrow touched him, he threw a set of hidden daggers at her. He died instantly when the arrow had hit its mark in to center of his chest. Caught off guard, she was only able to dodge most of deadly knives but one had managed to slit the surface of her side. She cried out in pain.
She fell to her knees, clutching the offending wound. Kagome's eyes widened when she saw two remaining daggers coming at her. Kurama and Hiei left there perch in the tree and deflected the remaining daggers from hitting their target.
Kurama immediately went over to Kagome, who was holding her side in pain. She winced as she saw blood soaking her clothes from the wound.
"Kagome, are you okay?" Kurama quickly but gently pushed Kagome into a lying position.
"I'm fine Kurama. Thank you, both." Kagome glanced at the fire apparition.
"Stupid, human." Hiei scuffed.
"She dodged five of the seven arrows aimed at her. I would call her skilled." Kurama complimented. Kagome gave a weak but grateful smile. She was in too much pain to retort for herself. Kurama examined her wound as best as he could. He didn't take his attention from it as he talked.
"You shouldn't have gone to a secluded area." Kurama said. Kagome fought to stay conscious as the pain continued to build, but to no avail. She was letting down her mental barrier. She put her hand over her wound in hopes to stop the flowing. She tried sitting up but Kurama only pushed her back down. She glared at him.
Kurama removed her hand from her wound and placed a few seeds from his pouch on it. He watched as she began to heal, her miko powers helping the revival.
"She wanted to protect her family." Hiei said, grinning inwardly at the fact that he could pick her brain when she was vulnerable.
Kurama sighed. 'Of course.' He quickly stood with Kagome's limb body in his arms. Kagome slipped into unconsciousness.
"Well, I guess it's confirmed that she's no ordinary girl."
"Hn."
----
"Kenshin, I'm going to lend this to you." Kaoru held out an indigo blue ribbon to him while he sat on the log staring at it.
"But-" He started, however he was cut off.
"Just take it!" Kaoru yelled.
Kenshin quickly took the ribbon carefully into his hands. "Yes, ma'm."
"Now listen carefully, Kenshin. I'm ONLY lending this to you. You have to return it. So.so don't go off and forget.ok?" Kaoru's voice was becoming more and more shaky as she began to cry. However, she didn't allow any tears to come. The river behind her made splashing noises, as its rough current picked up, splashing water against the side of rocks. A few birds in nearby tress chirped in peaceful song.
'I know he has to leave but I don't want him to. If he does then.I won't have anyone there with me anymore. I always feel safe around him. With him I feel so well protected, like nothing horrible can happen to me.'
Kenshin sat a moment just staring at her with confused eyes. Then, he understood. Kaoru didn't want him to leave. He felt warm inside that someone would actually care for him; one of a dirty past and just a rurouni. An ache came to his chest when he thought about the chances of him living through the battle we would soon undergo.
He was asked to fight a swordsman named Jenae (sp?), who had appeared suddenly and began slaughtering imperialists. What was he to do? Allow people to continue being murdered or risk his life in hopes of stopping him? Without hesitation, he had chosen the last choice. He had vowed to protect the week, even at the cost of his own life. He sighed.
Being a skilled samurai from the revolution, he was a master at hiding his feelings. He smiled at Kaoru and nodded his head. She smiled back.
"Ok. Well-" Her words were cut off as Jenae appeared almost out of nowhere and snatched her! Being close to a river it was quite easy as he pulled her more close to him on the raft he sailed upon. Kenshin quickly got up, cursing himself for not seeing him.
"That's right, Kenshin, get angry. Use all that fury and bring back the Battousi I want to fight, the manslayer from the revolution! I assume this is your woman so I will take her. Come save her Kenshin, but bring the Battousi with you!" Jenae began to laugh hysterically.
Kaoru fought against his strong hold. 'No! This isn't happening! It can't be!!' She began to cry as his hold on her wrists tightened. She was able to push his hand, which covered her mouth back just a little.
"NO! Kenshin!" She cried. Jenae's hand came back this time holding even firmer in place.
"Kaoru! No! JENAE!!!!" Kenshin yelled in fury. Kaoru watched in horror as his eyes seemed to turn a dark red and his pupils grew to a small dot. His eyes.they were.they changed from the kind, gentle look to that of a killer. It frightened her more anything. She continued to try and resist but to no avail. For some reason, she felt like she could no longer breathe either.
"NO!!" Kagome sat up, breathing hard. She began looking around in fright. 'What happened?!'
"Kagome! What's wrong?" She turned to see Kurama sitting next to her.
"I.I." She began to suddenly cry. Kagome, herself, didn't know why. She only felt that she needed to. She pulled her knees to her chest and began to sob. Her heart ached. Who were those people constantly coming into her dreams? They seemed so familiar yet so foreign. She felt alone right now, as if she was the one kidnapped.
Kurama watched. He just sat, dumbfounded. Why was she crying? 'I could tell she was having a nightmare but.was it THAT frightening?' He changed his position to sit behind her. Without thinking, he wrapped his arms around Kagome in hopes that she would find comfort and cease crying. To his surprise, she leaned more close to him.
Kagome began to feel warm and safe. Why did she have the feeling of déjà vu? The feeling she received around Kurama seemed to match the same feeling Kaoru had with Kenshin. She stopped crying but stayed in Kurama's arms.
"Are you okay?" He whispered. Kurama tried to make his voice as gentle as possible. She nodded.
Feeling better she leaned back a little. Kurama was now face to face with her. He looked deep within her eyes. She couldn't help but do the same. For a moment, the only thing they could do was stare at each other. They, however, did not realize they were getting closer. Both their gazes were now on each other's lips. They were so close. Reality, unfortunately, kicked in and they separated from each other immediately.
A small silence hung in the air while both Kagome and Kurama tried their best to compose themselves. Each thinking the same thing, 'Did that really happen? Damn, so close!' Kurama was the first to break the silence.
"Would you like to go home, now?" He asked considerately.
"Yes, I would." Kagome replied. He nodded and reluctantly allowed her to stand up, no longer sitting by him on the couch.
He stood as well. They both made their way to the door and left. They walked side-by-side along the dark sidewalk. Kagome found herself walking closer and closer to Kurama. She hated the dark and was glad that he was there. She always felt safe with him.
Kagome was surprised to feel Kurama's arm wrap around her shoulders. She blushed deeply. She didn't notice that Kurama was also blushing.
Kagome sighed. She stopped walking and faced Kurama. She had to fix the confusion that had occurred earlier; besides, she could sense that fire apparition near.
"Kurama, call your friend out. I need to talk to both of you." Kurama seemed shocked at first but did so.
"Hiei, please show yourself." Kurama didn't take his eyes off Kagome who was looking at the ground.
Hiei appeared not a moment later. He took a position by Kurama. Kagome looked up with unshed tears.
"Kurama.Hiei, I'm sorry I have led you to believe I'm ordinary. I know that both of you are youkai. I also know that you, Hiei, have a Jagon eye that allows you to read the thoughts of others. Please, do not try using it on me anymore. I believe you already know that I'm a miko, but is there anything else you would like to know?"
Hiei seemed somewhat shocked but gave no emotional sign of it. He only replied with, "Hn." Kurama smiled. "Why are you so experienced with demons? Have you ever been to the Makai?"
"No, I haven't." Kagome was now confused. "Where's that?"
"I suppose you haven't if you don't know what it is." Kurama sighed.
Hiei spoke up. "Makai is the world of demons, created to hold all youkai so that humans could live in peace. Very few, other than the demons themselves, know of it, stupid human."
Kagome scowled. "It's not my fault. I may be human but I'm not lowly, nor stupid!"
"So where did you gain so much experience?" Kurama asked again.
Kagome seemed to hesitate with her answer. "Well.when I was fifteen I had fallen through a well located on my family shrine grounds. It turned out that the well was enchanted and was actually a portal to the feudal era. There I learned about demons and received miko training from Kaede who was a nearby village miko. I also made friends.a half demon named Inuyasha, a youkai exterminator named Sango, a kit named Shippo, and a monk named Miroku. I adopted Shippo due to the unfortunate murder of his parent. I am almost done with training as a miko while Sango is teaching me martial arts."
"Why did you continue to go there?" Hiei asked curiously. He wondered why a human girl would continually go to such a place, where demons were so vicious at times.
"Because it was my duty.you see, there was a powerful jewel called the Shikon no Tama but I had unfortunately broken it. The Shikon no Tama was a small sphere that could increase any demon's power ten fold. I am its rightful guardian and I must restore it." Kagome sighed. She hated it when she had to be this open. She wasn't sure what would happen.
"So that's one of the reasons why those two demons from earlier had attacked you?" Kurama asked.
Kagome nodded.
"I see. Well, lets get you home. It's getting late. Hiei, could you reach Koenma and review the information back to him?" Kurama spoke after a moment of silence.
Hiei gave a quick nod before vanishing.
"Kurama, I do have one question for you. Since I told you about me, I want to know about you. I can already tell that you and Hiei work together and I assume Kuwabara and Yusuke are also on your team, but what are you four all together?"
"Kagome, I'm sorry but I don't know if I have permission to tell you that." Kurama said. Kagome frowned but didn't push further. In hopes of lightening her spirits he said, "But I can tell you how I came to be in a human body?"
Kagome's frown turned into a smile instantly. Kurama found himself wanting to make her smile more often. Kurama and Kagome presumed their walking to her house. They fell into another lapse of silence. Kagome couldn't help but want to ask one more question. "Kurama, why are you in a human body when your definitely youkai?"
Kurama kept his view on the ground. "I am youkai but somewhat also human. Before you ask, no, I'm not a hanyou. I am a kitsune that has a bond with a human soul and so live in a human body. I was originally called Youko Kurama. That was when I had my own body and I wasn't at all human." Kurama paused for a moment before continuing. "I was forced to hide myself in a human body, sharing a soul with Shuuichi Minaminno (sp?), due to a group of hunters that did not cease to chase me."
Kurama sighed. "And so I am born. I'm Kurama. Half of me is Shuuichi while the other is Youko." He smiled. Kagome smiled back. "I understand. So your only option as Youko was to hide yourself or die running?" Kurama nodded. After a moment he chuckled. "You know what? I was actually a thief when I was Youko. I would steel all sorts of things. I was always drawn to beautiful things." He stopped to stare at Kagome for a second.
His eye began to shine a small hue of gold before returning back to it's dark green. Kurama began to have an argument with Youko while walking with Kagome.
"You want her!" Youko accused.
"So what if I do?!" Kurama mentally yelled as he admitted his feelings.
Youko was silent for a moment. "Well you don't have to get upset about it. I find myself more and more infatuated with her every moment I see her." Youko confessed.
Kurama mentally slapped himself on the head. "Baka."
"Well you can't really call me that because I am YOU, after all." Youko stated thoughtfully.
Kagome watched Kurama from the corner of her eye. She almost giggled when Kurama's expression turned to that of disgust. His face continued to change but he didn't notice. He seemed to be having a battle with himself mentally.
"You can't think like that, you pervert!!" Kurama scowled.
"And why not!? I think she's suitable. She has all the qualities of being a perfect mate! You're just afraid to ask her! Let me out and I'll do it, you baby!" Youko retorted.
"No chance! Even if she would be the perfect mate, she's human and humans have a much different tradition. The male doesn't just grab her and claim her like demons do. The female has to agree and there is a ceremony that goes with it!" Kurama blushed. He tried to keep his mind out of the gutter but it was quite hard.
He glanced at Kagome.
"Look at her, stupid! She's just waiting to be claimed! I want her!" Youko began to pout. "Look at her curves! Haven't you noticed that she's gorgeous!! Who knows what will happen? It's amazing that she's single right now!! We need to get her before some moron of a human does first!"
Kurama blushed again. "I'm not ready for an intense relationship unless she's ready herself."
"But I'm ready!!" Youko said with a whine hidden in his voice.
Kurama sighed. Kagome turned her head to him. "Kurama, we're here." Kurama was so busy fighting with Youko that he hadn't realized that they arrived at Kagome's home. They had by this time, walked the steps and were currently standing on her front porch.
Kagome turned the rest of her body to him. "Thank you for walking me home, Kurama." She leaned up without much thought and kissed him lightly on the cheek. Kurama could feel his cheeks heat up, especially where she kissed him.
Kagome was also blushing.
"My pleasure and if the award is the same every time, then I would love walking you home every day."
Kagome looked up surprised. 'Did he just say that?'
"Damn you, Youko!! Why did you make me say that?!!" Kurama screamed in his head while Youko began to laugh.
Kagome giggled lightly. "We'll see." She winked before going inside. He grinned as hope swelled up within him. In his mind Youko was leaping off every wall.
He walked home.a bounce in each step he took. Joy filled every part of him.
-------
"No, Kenshin! Don't!" Kaoru yelled. She broke Jenae's spell. She was suffocating but it ended the moment she fought with full force. The loss of most of her ogygen made her vision slightly blurred and her head dizzy. She began to fall from her sitting position.
Kenshin who was in the act of killing Jenae stopped and rushed to catch her.
"Kaoru-" He was cut off.
"No! You can't! You're not a manslayer any longer. You're Kenshin the rurouni. You vowed to never kill again, so don't!" Kaoru's eyes watered as tears fell freely. She was afraid. Kenshin held her in his arms. He gazed into her deep brown eyes.
He felt his old self as Battousi leave back to the shadows deep with in his soul. What had come over him? Kenshin began to realize everything. His rage had driven him to a blind madness only Battousi could live in. How could he have allowed that to happen? He pulled Kaoru a little closer, ignoring the searing pain in this arm where Jenae had managed to create an incision.
Kaoru took in huge gulps of breath, refilling her lungs from the pounding shock of Jenae's eyes. Her eyes widened when she saw Jenae pick up a sword. He raised it high as he was about to strike.
"Kenshin!" Kaoru cried. Kenshin turned just in time to see Jenae stab the sword through his heart. Blood gushed from the wound. Blood ran from his nose and the side of his mouth.
"Awe.Sweet death." Jenae said. He turned his attention to Kenshin who stood over him in shock.
"Don't give me that look. This is how a manslayer should die. Battousi is in every fiber of your being. Once a manslayer, always a manslayer. Remember that, Battousi." With those last words, Jenae's life completely ended.
Both Kaoru and Kenshin stared at the corpse for a moment longer. Kaoru broke the uneasy silence.
"Kenshin, don't worry. I'll take care of you." She smiled.
Even though in the back of Kenshin's mind, he had doubt, Kaoru's words warmed him. He felt more at peace. He watched as Kaoru ripped part of her kimono and bandaged his arm. He was thankful for her. Kaoru was there for him even though she was put through danger.
She wasn't afraid of him and didn't care about his past. She accepted him for who he was now and not before. Kenshin couldn't help but smile. He didn't want to admit it, but he felt himself falling in love with her. Kaoru was gentle yet rough. She was loyal and kind. Her morals and beauty drew him to her. Every part of him just wanted to protect her.
To keep her safe from any harm.to make her happy was his true desire in life.
Kurama woke up feeling great but recently he was having such strange dreams. He didn't understand who the people in his dreams were, yet they were so familiar. He found himself being able to relate to that young man, Kenshin. All he found himself wanting lately was to protect Kagome.
Shaking his head, he got out of bed and dressed. Today after school, he was going to that swordsmanship club. He couldn't help but feel a little excited about today. He ate breakfast and ran over to Kagome's house. Kurama waited at the end of the stairs. Kagome soon came along with no really hurry.
She smiled at Kurama as she made her way down to him. "Hey!"
"Hello! I'm glad to see your not falling down the steps today!" Kurama said jokingly. Kagome laughed a bit.
"Me too! I hate being clumsy." Kagome and Kurama laughed.
School had gone fairly well. Classes weren't too hard at all. Kurama quickly went home after parting with Kagome and got ready to go to the dojo down town. He wandered what Kagome's level of skill would be.
He arrived at the dojo early. After signing in with the instructor for the class he sat and waited. A few more guys arrived a moment later. He was surprised to see Yusuke and Kuwabara show up. He greeted them as they made their way over to him.
"Hey, Kurama!" Kuwabara waved.
"Hello." Kurama smiled.
"Kurama, did you know that Kagome also signed up for this class?" Yusuke asked.
"Yes, I did. She also told me more about herself." Kurama began to explain everything that had happened the other day. Kuwabara would sometimes interrupt but Yusuke would just smack his head and let Kurama continue.
"Wow! So that chick is supposed to be powerful?" Kuwabara asked.
"I guess, from what it sounds like, she is." Yusuke said. Just then, none other than Kagome walked into the dojo. In her hands she held a wooden practice sword. She signed in but the moment she finished a few guys who wanted to talk to the 'babe' surrounded her.
Kurama could feel anger and slight jealousy build within him.
------
"Hey, babe. Whatcha doing here?" Kagome looked up to see a tall young man smiling at her. His slick black hair seemed to be plastered to his head. He had dull, gray eyes. His behavior revealed the fact that he was a dumbass. She glared at him.
"My name is Kagome. I'm not 'Babe.' I'm here for the club. I want to practice swordsmanship." She said proudly.
Two more men came up but once they heard the last part of her sentence they began to laugh, the first man joining them.
"You've got to be kidding me!" One gasped out between laughs. "A girl can't do swordsmanship!"
Kagome temper began to flare. "And why not?! Women are just as talented as men.sometimes even better!" This only caused them to laugh harder.
With out warning, a pair of arms wrapped around her thin waist and pulled her back. "Come now. You're not serious. Why don't you just give up and try cheering me on. I would love to take you out sometime, sweetie." Kagome could almost puke. She swiftly turned and used the hilt of the sword to hit a pressure point between his shoulder and neck.
The rude young man was sent to the ground, unconscious. "I would rather die than encourage or EVER go on a date with you, you scumbag. There's no difference between you and the rats in the sewers."
The other two young men stood in surprise. They moved aside as she headed toward one of the mats to stretch on.
Kurama smirked. He wanted to laugh but refrained from doing so with difficulty. It didn't stop Kuwabara and Yusuke from snickering then rolling on the floor laughing all together.
Kagome seemed to be to intent on stretching to notice him. The club Instructor came in a moment later. He glanced at Kagome with a curious eye but did not ask any questions. Instructor decided to begin with two volunteers. Wanting to know how much skill Kagome had he decided to "choose" her and another student. He was interested to see how well she would do in fencing with another opponent. It was extremely rare that a female would want to learn swordsmanship. However, she seemed.different.
"I want Kagome Higurashi and.Shuuichi Minamino to have a small match in skill." Kagome seemed a little surprised to see Kurama. She quickly stood and made her way to the center of the mat where Kurama waited, smiling.
This would be some match..
TBC
AN: So, what do you guys think? I hope you liked this chapter. I wanted to write more but it was getting just a little long for my liking. Well, I'll try to update soon but please continue to encourage me. Review! Review, now!!!!!
"To Review or not to review?"-What a stupid question!