Disclaimer: let's just say if I would own I'll be keeping him all to
myself. And not write fan fiction.
HELLS K ITCHEN
BY PANTHERA1984
CHAPTER 1
It was raining. It was always raining when she visited the graveyard alone. Like some one had decided up there that when ever Kagome went to her sisters' grave alone it should rain. Well there was nothing she could do about that, just like she couldn't prevent Kikyo from dieing.
It was hard living in slums that where known to the outside world as hells kitchen. There didn't go a day by that some one wasn't killed. But Kikyo had escaped it all by marrying a famous novelist.
She could have don pretty well for herself, if only she would have stayed away like Kagome and Sango had told her to. They had there tavern that was left by there parents, they would be able to live reasonable.
Of course Kikyo hadn't listened she kept fighting with the other members from the society. Her code name had been phoenix, after the legendary bird. She had been one of the best but that hadn't stopped her from getting wounded that day.
In fact that had been the reason she got wounded in the first place. Kikyo had gone to challenge the big boss himself. The evil half-breed Narake. He is the owner from every single building of hells kitchen.
Kikyo thought that if she would be able to kill him her family would finally be free again. It had been a good theory, there contracts clearly stated that when Narake died there debts would be remitted. So in theory they would be free.
Members of the society have been trying to kill Narake and his minions almost as long as he is known. See in secret boys and girls from hells kitchen are trained to fight Narake and his gang of demons. We're taught the heaviest of all fighting techniques. And we never have gotten as close as that day Kikyo died.
She was at the front surrounded by other members that came close to her standard, they where to make sure that Kikyo would reach Narake without drenching herself too much. From what I was told by the survivors the first stage of the plan went great. They had actually been winning.
From the rest of the fight not much is known most society members had been killed of or unconscious by then. But it is said that Narake had to pay a big price before being able to dispose of Kikyo. I think that at least should apiece me a bit.
But it is almost over now, the society is almost completely gone, the only reason that Sango and me weren't in that fight is that Loverboy has stated clearly no fighters under the age of nineteen not even if there birthdays are a few days away. Sometimes I fell relieved that I hadn't been old enough to fight with the rest, I always feel guilty when ever I feel that way.
I should have been there maybe me and Sango would have made a difference. Of course I know that, that are just dreams. Kikyo was the best and she got killed anyway so how would we have been able to make a difference then.
And all because she couldn't let go. She had been in the fighting to long to leave it now. She could have had such a wonderful live. It isn't often that some one who lift her bigger part of live in hells kitchen gets away and has a second chance. And even less marry such a wealthy man, she could have had it all. But hells kitchen was too deep in her bones.
So now Loverboy has thrown up a bane on any big attack, at least until we are regrouped again. With our tavern as service hatch we just try to make Narake's business as hard as possible. Interfering with his cargo and other small but costly deals.
Of course we have to be careful Narake has a close watch on all of hells kitchen, especially after the big attack. Every two weeks we get inspection and if Kagura finds even a small thing to her disliking Sango and me will lose our tavern.
In hells Kitchen losing your job for a girl means. That you'll be put to work in one of Narake's houses. First you're just there to deal cards or work the roulette. But eventually you'll end up in the upstairs rooms as a pleasure girl. And then your live span is decided for most you'll have three more years to live, since Narake doesn't make a big deal out of diseases or that the girls need breaks.
Our tavern actually runs quite well, we even have been able to pay of one of our debts. Sango me and Mrs. Kitsune our cook and her son Shippô had a little party that day. One less debt means one less way for Narake to torture us. Kikyo would have been so proud if she would have been alive to see it.
Kikyo gravestone is quite beautiful. It's shaped like a flame with the silhouette of a rising bird in it. Written on it is Kikyo Higurashi- Taisho 1979- 2003. Cherished sister and beloved wife may her spirit sore like never before. Our little phoenix.
Most of the time Sango and me come here together, but not today. Today is inspection day and even if we only come her every three to four days or so. Today I couldn't skip today is her dieing day. So now Sango is overseeing the complete clean up we always have before every inspection, by herself until I return. I promised I would take long.
I'm just here to place a rosebush. Kikyo had one rose she really loved. It is a small one but its fragrant is luring and its colour resembles fresh fallen snow. Actually Sango and me wanted to plant it the day she was buried we just didn't have the money. So we have been saving some and now Kikyo will have her bush.
It's time for me to go back, who knows what has happened in the time I have been away. I wouldn't be surprised if Sango has killed of Miroke for one of his pranks. He is a guest or at least he was, now he kinda life's with us above the tavern, just like Mrs. Kitsune and Shippô. There is just enough room to accommodate the five of us.
We each have our own bedroom and the girls and boys have there own bathroom. Aldo Miroke always ends up in our one. Like this morning. Sango and me had been down already when the screaming started.
First Mrs. Kitsune's was heard followed by Miroke's own one and comment "you're not Sango." To say Sango hadn't liked it was a mild statement. Those to are at a constant war. We had to remove the dart board arrows already because Sango kept accidentally throwing them in Miroke.
Yes it really is time for me to go back, blood stains are really hard to remove. And our fridge isn't big enough to sustain a dead body. Not to mention Mrs. Kitsune wouldn't appreciate us in the kitchen. And there really isn't a place big enough to hide three bodies. Maybe she'll cook us up in one of her meals.
~*~
Walking down the watery sidewalks all whet Kagome was still a girl that many a man would take a second look at. Her black hair was plastered to her face and coat. Her stormy eyes had a fare away look in them, like she was on a deferent planet all together. She knows the road of by heart so she didn't really need to look where she was going.
Back from her visit to the graveyard, she had to walk two blocks before she was back in hells kitchen. There she would have to be more careful with robbers and rapist standing practically in every dark alleyway. Not that she was going near those, but one girl against four to five boys just wasn't a fair fight even if she was trained to take on demons in a unconscious state there wasn't much she could do about it.
Back in hells kitchen she had to go over gallows square. The square had gotten its name because Narake used to display traitors there. Nailed between to polls they would hang there until there body's had rotten of.
Now nobody knew what happened to the traitors and in a way that was even more scary than seeing them rot. From the square she would only have to go two more streets before she would see the tavern. Its name the Robin Hood in bloody red stood out against the dull grey from the buildings.
A sudden swish of wind sending shivers up Kagome's spinal core, urging her to walk faster. It really was nasty weather for this time of the year; it should have been snowing already. Wrapping her arms around her Kagome run the last bit.
Bringing a gust of wind and rain with her when she entered the tavern, Sango was at the bar without looking back she yelled. "Close the god damn door where not a carwash."
Pulling of her coat Kagome answered. "I know that but I didn't want to stay in the rain any longer than I had to." Disposing her coat on one of the table she approached the bar. "How far is the cleaning?"
Sango had turned around in time to see Kagome putting her dripping whet coat on one of the just cleaned tables. "Where're doing great, just Mrs. Kitsune doing some last minute checkups and where're ready to go." Whinzing as she saw the whet coat making a pool on the floor. "Well almost ready to go you'll have to clean up your little pool first."
Turning around to see what Sango was talking about Kagome saw the steadily growing pool from her coat. "Sorry about that I'll clean it right away." Looking around some more she didn't see a sign of Miroke. "And were is our perverted monk, you didn't do something to him?
Grimacing at the mention of the Houshi Sango started twiddling her thumps. "I did nothing permanent to him if that's what you mean." With sudden interest Sango started to stare at the shelves. "I just send him of to somewhere; he'll be back soon enough too soon if you ask me."
Walking up to the bar Kagome seated herself at one of the bar stools. Leaning on the scratched wooden surface with her elbows she eyed Sango carefully. "And where did you send him of to."
Aimlessly flopping over a clean thee towel Sango stubbornly avoided Kagome's stare. "To intercept Inu yasha and hold him away until Kagura is don with her inspection."
Swallowing Kagome remembered Inu yasha's vow to kill any member of Narake's family for killing his wife. For one to write lovely tender books he was rather rough mannered in real. And killing Narake's daughter in there tavern would warrant Sango and Kagome ending up as pleasure girls.
"Thank god you thought about that, I totally forgot that he would be dropping by today." Kagome sighed with her head in her hands.
Waving her hand in a dismissive manner Sango finally faced Kagome. "And that's not all today is collector day and it is your turn."
Groaning loud Kagome buried her head in her arms not collectors' day. The worst day of the month. Sango and she took it in turns. It actually mend that they tried to get in on one of the fancy party's and nick as much as they could and then disappear without a trace.
It was a very dangers game they played and thus far they hadn't been caught. The money and jewels they nicked where sold by Miroke to some underground figures. The money they got from that was put aside to pay of the debts. They almost had collected enough to pay of the second debt.
It was a whole new way of getting money and they certainly wouldn't have don it if Kikyo had been still a live. But Kikyo was no longer there and they really needed the money so Sango and Kagome had come up with the collectors plan. Once a month one of them would mingle herself in one of the party's the rich gave.
There they would try to get hold of as many jewels and pocket money as they could before disappearing the same way they had came. Because Tokyo was so big they hadn't been in the same district twice. Too many robbings in the same district would tighten police security and then there would be no way for them to go on with there plan.
Now the people of the party put it of as a one time thing and that was just how Sango and Kagome liked it to stay. "Don't sulk Kagome Mrs. Kitsune already has finished your next gown and you knew that this month was yours so no need to get pesky about it now."
Snapping the towel from Sango Kagome went to the pool that had now reached the size of dart board. Shaking out her coat before bending down to clean it up. "I know Sango but doesn't mean I have to be all happy about it, I guess Miroke has the plans of how to get in also finished?
Walking round the bar Sango retrieved the coat before it could do more damage. "Hasn't he always, and for some reason he's all sappy about this one. Just look at him when you say the name of the ball." Putting the coat near the door to the private space Sango went back to stand behind the bar. "He's like a four year old with a sugar rush it's just disgusting."
Standing up Kagome threw the now whet dirty towel to Sango. "When do I have to get myself ready and I take it Miroke is going to bring me and pick me up?
Peeling the dirty towel from her chest Sango absentmindedly nodded. "Yup Miroke is the ride and you can get ready early this time. Where're closed because its inspection day Mrs. Kitsune has said be in her room at two."
Then another whoosh announced Kagura arriving. The wind demon ness always walked around with a cold bitchy look on her face. Kagome's and Sango stopped there conversation at once. Sango swiftly deposited the dirty towel in the laundry bassinet under the bar. Before resuming her post behind the check out.
The door closed with a loud bang that brought Mrs. Kitsune and Shippô out of the kitchen. Kagome trotted to Sango, all four of them watched Kagura making a round through the room. Every once in a while she would stop and look at some thing closely before resuming her walk.
Even if Kagome, Sango Mrs. Kitsune and even Shippô had seen her do this a million times before, Kagura was still able to unnerve them. Every time she came they where uncertain if they would be allowed to keep the tavern.
When Kagura's red eyes narrowed at something every person in the room was holding there breathe until she went on. Pushing Shippô away with her foot she went into the kitchen. The small boy had puffed up his chest and his tail resembled a toilet brush when he made an attempt to go after the wind youkai but his mother got hold of him before he reached the door.
Wrapping her arms around him she contained the little boy. Picking on Kagura was not a thing that you got away with alive. Not to mention she would instantly use it to kick them out. In the kitchen a soft rattling of pans told them that Kagura was on her way back to the main room.
Getting away from the bar so the wind demon could look there, Sango and Kagome went to stand with Mrs. Kitsune and Shippô. And sure enough next moment Kagura came out of the kitchen heading strait for the bar.
Here Kagura took even longer examining every single square. Rummaging through the liquor bottles. She even went as far as to examine the bottom of the bar. It really was a good thing they new before hand what Kagura would be looking at otherwise they would have failed the inspection immediately.
Last on the list of things where the toilets at the back in the left. Kagome once had a in the moment spur had rebuild them three years ago. She had been really bored that summer. So now the boy's toilet was tiled in a soft green with a bleu tiled floor. A white toilet and sink. The girls' toilet was tiled in shocking pink with a deep red tiled floor. And here the toilet and sink where also white. Kagome was very proud of her handy work even if the girls' toilet gave most customers a splitting headache.
When Kagura reappeared for a second time she seated herself at one of the tables. Pulling out a form and a bright red pen she began to scribble down. Every once in a while she would look up into the distance and flick the pen against her chin before going on. When she reached the last page she put her signature down in one fluent motion.
Cold red eyes where lifted up to glance over the silently waiting people. She had there live in her hands and she enjoyed every moment of it. Aldo she was careful not to show it. Kagura made it an art to never show any kind of emotion on a very early age she had learned that this was the best way to unnerve people. It got them to spill thing they normally wouldn't and it made them subdued.
Keeping her eyes on them until al four started shifting uncomfortably. Pleased with there reaction she decided she had been here long enough already. "Your tavern has some pointers I like to be bettered, but it is sufficient. I'll be back in two weeks." Pulling of one of the forms she neatly placed on the table. "Here is a copy of my approval that you can run this bar for the next two weeks."
Standing up rather abruptly sending the chair flying, Kagura walked to the door at an easy pace. Not even bothering to pick up the chair she had sent smashing to the ground. When she opened the door a strong gush of wind carried a waterfall in. she had to literally pull the door close because of the wind it was a nice sight.
For a whole minute nobody moved, they all just stood there watching the form Kagura left on the table like it was a fifteen foot anaconda. Deciding he had enough Shippô bounced towards the table jumping on it.
Pulling the form towards him he started reading and the farther he came the bigger his smile grew. "I know why she was pissed, there was nothing wrong with the tavern all she has written down by needs improvement is." He went to stand in a formal pose. "Toilets need new rugs and you guys need to buy a new washing-up brush."
Everybody let out there breathe at the same time. This was wonderful news indeed no expensive outgoings. Just like the inspection the need to buy category was one that no body liked, Kagura could think up the most expensive things and if you didn't have them by the next inspection. It was on the street.
Kagome and Sango started to do a celebration dance that was a cross between ballet and hip-hop. While Mrs. Kitsune just cried in her hands. They made it through for the next two weeks. Holding back on the dancing a bit Sango headed for the bar. "This calls for a celebration drink." Opening up the fridge she pulled out four bottles coca cola lemon.
In the middle of Sango opening the bottles and Kagome's frantic jumping, Mrs. Kitsune's crying and Shippô watching the whole with embarrassment Miroke and Inu yasha arrived. When the males had finally been able to shove the door closed they where greeted by that side.
Miroke's violet eyes sparked. "I take it we passed the inspection again." Some loud who hoe's from Kagome and Sango opening the fridge to get two more bottles where his only answer he didn't need any more. "Great, I'll have some rum with that Sango."
The brunette huffed before slamming the bottles on a servant tray. "You'll get the same as everybody else; you're a danger enough without being drunk." Kagome who was now heavily panting chose to sit down at the nearest table. Sango put one arm around Mrs. Kitsune leading her to the table where Kagome had already pulled out a chair for her.
Soon everybody was sitting at the round table. Miroke had menaced to get a seat next to Sango and was now lifting his bottle. "I like to make a toast; a hum here's to passing every inspection to come."
Everybody nodded in agreement and lifted there bottles to cling with his. Taking a big sip everybody looked of into distance with dreamy looks each picturing there own dreams. The silence didn't take long. "Miroke remove your hand from my but or I will do it for you and permanently."
Sango must have been quite happy still, she didn't knock him unconscious this time. Brought back from daydreaming Kagome's eyes fell on Inu yasha, he called last night to tell them he would be coming around the next day. She had been wondering what he wanted from them. "Say Inu yasha I don't mean to be rude but what exactly did you want to come around for?
A soft red appeared on his face on a normal person it would have been noticed but his silver-white hair made ever colour change in his face visible. "I wanted to ask you all to the founders' day ball. It is hold tonight at one of my brothers' office buildings. I normally don't go but I just............... I don't feel like being alone this day."
Understanding shone in Kagome stormy grey bleu eyes. He didn't want to be alone on the day Kikyo died that was understandable the only thing she didn't understand was why he wanted to go to this ball, but she was hardly in place to question him about it. "Sure we would love to come, don't we guys?
Miroke was making quit it motion while Sango looked at Kagome in horror. Then it hit her she had totally forgotten about Collection day, shit. Well there was no going back now. "I'm seeing you are all enthusiastic about it so I say its times to get ready for tonight. Why don't you wait upstairs in the living room Inu yasha we'll be with you soon."
Granting her the tiniest smile of gratitude he went to the door that leaded to the stairs to there privet living place. As soon as the door was closed Sango smashed her hands down. "You knew Kagome and now you're throwing the whole thing out of the window. You did this on purpose didn't you."
That did it slamming her own hands down in anger Kagome stood up from her chair. "You know Sango I would never do such a thing on purpose and for your information I hate to sink so low that we would turn Inu yasha down. Hell this is just one time we can plan a new night so no big lose."
By the end of Kagome's little speech Sango had already regained her senses. "I'm sorry Kagome I didn't mean to snap. Well let's get ready then are all those dresses coming in handy now or what."
The three of them went to the door to go upstairs except for Mrs. Kitsune. It wasn't until they where halfway that they noticed. Kagome turned around. "Aren't you coming with us?
Giving Kagome a warm smile Mrs. Kitsune shook her head. "No child them fancy party's isn't for us I'll stay ere and watch hè. Me and Ship will hold the fort till you come back." She ended her sentence with a big wink making Kagome giggle.
"Sure thing see you tomorrow then." With that she went after Sango and Miroke. Sango was waiting by the stairs for her. Together they went up to there rooms now the hard part would begin. Mrs. Kitsune had made a great deal of dresses and all where just as beautiful as the other. What to wear what to wear. If only all problems where as easy as this one.
~*~
Throwing one gown on the queen sized bed after another; Sango had a hard time choosing a dress. When she came to the last one she carefully holded it up. She had forgotten she own this one and it was perfect. The soft mauve creation consisted out of a strapless body, following every curve and loosened up at the knees. Because it was made from stretchy material it was easy to move in. digging up a pair of mauve heels she went to the bathroom.
Kagome was already there since she would be wearing the gown that Mrs. Kitsune had recently made. It was a gem. A green creation that closed with ribbons at the back. The bodice was moulded to her skin while the skirt itself was loose.
From a cabinet Kagome pulled the make-up back and hair supplies. All in all it took the two girls three hours to get ready. They had only one sneak attack from Miroke but Sango had been prepared for one of those and wired the copper handle from the door. It gave Miroke a nasty little shock.
Entering the living room fully dressed, they found Miroke and Inu yasha play the twenty question game. On the couch next to Miroke to water proof cloaks in neon yellow and Barbie pink where laid ready. The cloaks would cover them head to toe providing a shelter against the foul weather and also giving them some warmth.
Donning the cloaks Kagome and Sango motioned the boy's that it was time to go. "Get up you guys or the party will be over before we even get there."
Inu yasha took the lead. "We're going with the rover it's just down the street." The rover was a very ancient car that even a thief wouldn't want to steal. In other words the perfect car to use in hells kitchen. In the back Sango was arguing with Kagome.
"I'm not sitting in the back with that pervert." She flashed Kagome an intimidating glare.
Kagome just shrugged her shoulders. "I did it last time so it's your turn this time."
Sango looked very desperate now. "But Miroke never pulls any of his stunts on you, please Kagome?
Kagome let Sango dangle for a few minutes before giving in. "okay I'll do it, but you'll have to at least dance with him one time."
Scowling Sango gave a curt nod. "Don, but only if it's an up beat tempo I'm not waltzing with him again."
The reached the back door, time to face the fool weather. By the door Inu yasha and Miroke had donned there own rain coats. Shocking green and baby bleu. The whole ten minutes it took them to get to the car where a fight to not get blown away. Kagome let out a deep sight when she was finally in the car with the door firmly closed. "I just hope the weather doesn't get worse or we're going to be unable to get back."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/n: well don't keep me in the dark and let me know what you think.
HELLS K ITCHEN
BY PANTHERA1984
CHAPTER 1
It was raining. It was always raining when she visited the graveyard alone. Like some one had decided up there that when ever Kagome went to her sisters' grave alone it should rain. Well there was nothing she could do about that, just like she couldn't prevent Kikyo from dieing.
It was hard living in slums that where known to the outside world as hells kitchen. There didn't go a day by that some one wasn't killed. But Kikyo had escaped it all by marrying a famous novelist.
She could have don pretty well for herself, if only she would have stayed away like Kagome and Sango had told her to. They had there tavern that was left by there parents, they would be able to live reasonable.
Of course Kikyo hadn't listened she kept fighting with the other members from the society. Her code name had been phoenix, after the legendary bird. She had been one of the best but that hadn't stopped her from getting wounded that day.
In fact that had been the reason she got wounded in the first place. Kikyo had gone to challenge the big boss himself. The evil half-breed Narake. He is the owner from every single building of hells kitchen.
Kikyo thought that if she would be able to kill him her family would finally be free again. It had been a good theory, there contracts clearly stated that when Narake died there debts would be remitted. So in theory they would be free.
Members of the society have been trying to kill Narake and his minions almost as long as he is known. See in secret boys and girls from hells kitchen are trained to fight Narake and his gang of demons. We're taught the heaviest of all fighting techniques. And we never have gotten as close as that day Kikyo died.
She was at the front surrounded by other members that came close to her standard, they where to make sure that Kikyo would reach Narake without drenching herself too much. From what I was told by the survivors the first stage of the plan went great. They had actually been winning.
From the rest of the fight not much is known most society members had been killed of or unconscious by then. But it is said that Narake had to pay a big price before being able to dispose of Kikyo. I think that at least should apiece me a bit.
But it is almost over now, the society is almost completely gone, the only reason that Sango and me weren't in that fight is that Loverboy has stated clearly no fighters under the age of nineteen not even if there birthdays are a few days away. Sometimes I fell relieved that I hadn't been old enough to fight with the rest, I always feel guilty when ever I feel that way.
I should have been there maybe me and Sango would have made a difference. Of course I know that, that are just dreams. Kikyo was the best and she got killed anyway so how would we have been able to make a difference then.
And all because she couldn't let go. She had been in the fighting to long to leave it now. She could have had such a wonderful live. It isn't often that some one who lift her bigger part of live in hells kitchen gets away and has a second chance. And even less marry such a wealthy man, she could have had it all. But hells kitchen was too deep in her bones.
So now Loverboy has thrown up a bane on any big attack, at least until we are regrouped again. With our tavern as service hatch we just try to make Narake's business as hard as possible. Interfering with his cargo and other small but costly deals.
Of course we have to be careful Narake has a close watch on all of hells kitchen, especially after the big attack. Every two weeks we get inspection and if Kagura finds even a small thing to her disliking Sango and me will lose our tavern.
In hells Kitchen losing your job for a girl means. That you'll be put to work in one of Narake's houses. First you're just there to deal cards or work the roulette. But eventually you'll end up in the upstairs rooms as a pleasure girl. And then your live span is decided for most you'll have three more years to live, since Narake doesn't make a big deal out of diseases or that the girls need breaks.
Our tavern actually runs quite well, we even have been able to pay of one of our debts. Sango me and Mrs. Kitsune our cook and her son Shippô had a little party that day. One less debt means one less way for Narake to torture us. Kikyo would have been so proud if she would have been alive to see it.
Kikyo gravestone is quite beautiful. It's shaped like a flame with the silhouette of a rising bird in it. Written on it is Kikyo Higurashi- Taisho 1979- 2003. Cherished sister and beloved wife may her spirit sore like never before. Our little phoenix.
Most of the time Sango and me come here together, but not today. Today is inspection day and even if we only come her every three to four days or so. Today I couldn't skip today is her dieing day. So now Sango is overseeing the complete clean up we always have before every inspection, by herself until I return. I promised I would take long.
I'm just here to place a rosebush. Kikyo had one rose she really loved. It is a small one but its fragrant is luring and its colour resembles fresh fallen snow. Actually Sango and me wanted to plant it the day she was buried we just didn't have the money. So we have been saving some and now Kikyo will have her bush.
It's time for me to go back, who knows what has happened in the time I have been away. I wouldn't be surprised if Sango has killed of Miroke for one of his pranks. He is a guest or at least he was, now he kinda life's with us above the tavern, just like Mrs. Kitsune and Shippô. There is just enough room to accommodate the five of us.
We each have our own bedroom and the girls and boys have there own bathroom. Aldo Miroke always ends up in our one. Like this morning. Sango and me had been down already when the screaming started.
First Mrs. Kitsune's was heard followed by Miroke's own one and comment "you're not Sango." To say Sango hadn't liked it was a mild statement. Those to are at a constant war. We had to remove the dart board arrows already because Sango kept accidentally throwing them in Miroke.
Yes it really is time for me to go back, blood stains are really hard to remove. And our fridge isn't big enough to sustain a dead body. Not to mention Mrs. Kitsune wouldn't appreciate us in the kitchen. And there really isn't a place big enough to hide three bodies. Maybe she'll cook us up in one of her meals.
~*~
Walking down the watery sidewalks all whet Kagome was still a girl that many a man would take a second look at. Her black hair was plastered to her face and coat. Her stormy eyes had a fare away look in them, like she was on a deferent planet all together. She knows the road of by heart so she didn't really need to look where she was going.
Back from her visit to the graveyard, she had to walk two blocks before she was back in hells kitchen. There she would have to be more careful with robbers and rapist standing practically in every dark alleyway. Not that she was going near those, but one girl against four to five boys just wasn't a fair fight even if she was trained to take on demons in a unconscious state there wasn't much she could do about it.
Back in hells kitchen she had to go over gallows square. The square had gotten its name because Narake used to display traitors there. Nailed between to polls they would hang there until there body's had rotten of.
Now nobody knew what happened to the traitors and in a way that was even more scary than seeing them rot. From the square she would only have to go two more streets before she would see the tavern. Its name the Robin Hood in bloody red stood out against the dull grey from the buildings.
A sudden swish of wind sending shivers up Kagome's spinal core, urging her to walk faster. It really was nasty weather for this time of the year; it should have been snowing already. Wrapping her arms around her Kagome run the last bit.
Bringing a gust of wind and rain with her when she entered the tavern, Sango was at the bar without looking back she yelled. "Close the god damn door where not a carwash."
Pulling of her coat Kagome answered. "I know that but I didn't want to stay in the rain any longer than I had to." Disposing her coat on one of the table she approached the bar. "How far is the cleaning?"
Sango had turned around in time to see Kagome putting her dripping whet coat on one of the just cleaned tables. "Where're doing great, just Mrs. Kitsune doing some last minute checkups and where're ready to go." Whinzing as she saw the whet coat making a pool on the floor. "Well almost ready to go you'll have to clean up your little pool first."
Turning around to see what Sango was talking about Kagome saw the steadily growing pool from her coat. "Sorry about that I'll clean it right away." Looking around some more she didn't see a sign of Miroke. "And were is our perverted monk, you didn't do something to him?
Grimacing at the mention of the Houshi Sango started twiddling her thumps. "I did nothing permanent to him if that's what you mean." With sudden interest Sango started to stare at the shelves. "I just send him of to somewhere; he'll be back soon enough too soon if you ask me."
Walking up to the bar Kagome seated herself at one of the bar stools. Leaning on the scratched wooden surface with her elbows she eyed Sango carefully. "And where did you send him of to."
Aimlessly flopping over a clean thee towel Sango stubbornly avoided Kagome's stare. "To intercept Inu yasha and hold him away until Kagura is don with her inspection."
Swallowing Kagome remembered Inu yasha's vow to kill any member of Narake's family for killing his wife. For one to write lovely tender books he was rather rough mannered in real. And killing Narake's daughter in there tavern would warrant Sango and Kagome ending up as pleasure girls.
"Thank god you thought about that, I totally forgot that he would be dropping by today." Kagome sighed with her head in her hands.
Waving her hand in a dismissive manner Sango finally faced Kagome. "And that's not all today is collector day and it is your turn."
Groaning loud Kagome buried her head in her arms not collectors' day. The worst day of the month. Sango and she took it in turns. It actually mend that they tried to get in on one of the fancy party's and nick as much as they could and then disappear without a trace.
It was a very dangers game they played and thus far they hadn't been caught. The money and jewels they nicked where sold by Miroke to some underground figures. The money they got from that was put aside to pay of the debts. They almost had collected enough to pay of the second debt.
It was a whole new way of getting money and they certainly wouldn't have don it if Kikyo had been still a live. But Kikyo was no longer there and they really needed the money so Sango and Kagome had come up with the collectors plan. Once a month one of them would mingle herself in one of the party's the rich gave.
There they would try to get hold of as many jewels and pocket money as they could before disappearing the same way they had came. Because Tokyo was so big they hadn't been in the same district twice. Too many robbings in the same district would tighten police security and then there would be no way for them to go on with there plan.
Now the people of the party put it of as a one time thing and that was just how Sango and Kagome liked it to stay. "Don't sulk Kagome Mrs. Kitsune already has finished your next gown and you knew that this month was yours so no need to get pesky about it now."
Snapping the towel from Sango Kagome went to the pool that had now reached the size of dart board. Shaking out her coat before bending down to clean it up. "I know Sango but doesn't mean I have to be all happy about it, I guess Miroke has the plans of how to get in also finished?
Walking round the bar Sango retrieved the coat before it could do more damage. "Hasn't he always, and for some reason he's all sappy about this one. Just look at him when you say the name of the ball." Putting the coat near the door to the private space Sango went back to stand behind the bar. "He's like a four year old with a sugar rush it's just disgusting."
Standing up Kagome threw the now whet dirty towel to Sango. "When do I have to get myself ready and I take it Miroke is going to bring me and pick me up?
Peeling the dirty towel from her chest Sango absentmindedly nodded. "Yup Miroke is the ride and you can get ready early this time. Where're closed because its inspection day Mrs. Kitsune has said be in her room at two."
Then another whoosh announced Kagura arriving. The wind demon ness always walked around with a cold bitchy look on her face. Kagome's and Sango stopped there conversation at once. Sango swiftly deposited the dirty towel in the laundry bassinet under the bar. Before resuming her post behind the check out.
The door closed with a loud bang that brought Mrs. Kitsune and Shippô out of the kitchen. Kagome trotted to Sango, all four of them watched Kagura making a round through the room. Every once in a while she would stop and look at some thing closely before resuming her walk.
Even if Kagome, Sango Mrs. Kitsune and even Shippô had seen her do this a million times before, Kagura was still able to unnerve them. Every time she came they where uncertain if they would be allowed to keep the tavern.
When Kagura's red eyes narrowed at something every person in the room was holding there breathe until she went on. Pushing Shippô away with her foot she went into the kitchen. The small boy had puffed up his chest and his tail resembled a toilet brush when he made an attempt to go after the wind youkai but his mother got hold of him before he reached the door.
Wrapping her arms around him she contained the little boy. Picking on Kagura was not a thing that you got away with alive. Not to mention she would instantly use it to kick them out. In the kitchen a soft rattling of pans told them that Kagura was on her way back to the main room.
Getting away from the bar so the wind demon could look there, Sango and Kagome went to stand with Mrs. Kitsune and Shippô. And sure enough next moment Kagura came out of the kitchen heading strait for the bar.
Here Kagura took even longer examining every single square. Rummaging through the liquor bottles. She even went as far as to examine the bottom of the bar. It really was a good thing they new before hand what Kagura would be looking at otherwise they would have failed the inspection immediately.
Last on the list of things where the toilets at the back in the left. Kagome once had a in the moment spur had rebuild them three years ago. She had been really bored that summer. So now the boy's toilet was tiled in a soft green with a bleu tiled floor. A white toilet and sink. The girls' toilet was tiled in shocking pink with a deep red tiled floor. And here the toilet and sink where also white. Kagome was very proud of her handy work even if the girls' toilet gave most customers a splitting headache.
When Kagura reappeared for a second time she seated herself at one of the tables. Pulling out a form and a bright red pen she began to scribble down. Every once in a while she would look up into the distance and flick the pen against her chin before going on. When she reached the last page she put her signature down in one fluent motion.
Cold red eyes where lifted up to glance over the silently waiting people. She had there live in her hands and she enjoyed every moment of it. Aldo she was careful not to show it. Kagura made it an art to never show any kind of emotion on a very early age she had learned that this was the best way to unnerve people. It got them to spill thing they normally wouldn't and it made them subdued.
Keeping her eyes on them until al four started shifting uncomfortably. Pleased with there reaction she decided she had been here long enough already. "Your tavern has some pointers I like to be bettered, but it is sufficient. I'll be back in two weeks." Pulling of one of the forms she neatly placed on the table. "Here is a copy of my approval that you can run this bar for the next two weeks."
Standing up rather abruptly sending the chair flying, Kagura walked to the door at an easy pace. Not even bothering to pick up the chair she had sent smashing to the ground. When she opened the door a strong gush of wind carried a waterfall in. she had to literally pull the door close because of the wind it was a nice sight.
For a whole minute nobody moved, they all just stood there watching the form Kagura left on the table like it was a fifteen foot anaconda. Deciding he had enough Shippô bounced towards the table jumping on it.
Pulling the form towards him he started reading and the farther he came the bigger his smile grew. "I know why she was pissed, there was nothing wrong with the tavern all she has written down by needs improvement is." He went to stand in a formal pose. "Toilets need new rugs and you guys need to buy a new washing-up brush."
Everybody let out there breathe at the same time. This was wonderful news indeed no expensive outgoings. Just like the inspection the need to buy category was one that no body liked, Kagura could think up the most expensive things and if you didn't have them by the next inspection. It was on the street.
Kagome and Sango started to do a celebration dance that was a cross between ballet and hip-hop. While Mrs. Kitsune just cried in her hands. They made it through for the next two weeks. Holding back on the dancing a bit Sango headed for the bar. "This calls for a celebration drink." Opening up the fridge she pulled out four bottles coca cola lemon.
In the middle of Sango opening the bottles and Kagome's frantic jumping, Mrs. Kitsune's crying and Shippô watching the whole with embarrassment Miroke and Inu yasha arrived. When the males had finally been able to shove the door closed they where greeted by that side.
Miroke's violet eyes sparked. "I take it we passed the inspection again." Some loud who hoe's from Kagome and Sango opening the fridge to get two more bottles where his only answer he didn't need any more. "Great, I'll have some rum with that Sango."
The brunette huffed before slamming the bottles on a servant tray. "You'll get the same as everybody else; you're a danger enough without being drunk." Kagome who was now heavily panting chose to sit down at the nearest table. Sango put one arm around Mrs. Kitsune leading her to the table where Kagome had already pulled out a chair for her.
Soon everybody was sitting at the round table. Miroke had menaced to get a seat next to Sango and was now lifting his bottle. "I like to make a toast; a hum here's to passing every inspection to come."
Everybody nodded in agreement and lifted there bottles to cling with his. Taking a big sip everybody looked of into distance with dreamy looks each picturing there own dreams. The silence didn't take long. "Miroke remove your hand from my but or I will do it for you and permanently."
Sango must have been quite happy still, she didn't knock him unconscious this time. Brought back from daydreaming Kagome's eyes fell on Inu yasha, he called last night to tell them he would be coming around the next day. She had been wondering what he wanted from them. "Say Inu yasha I don't mean to be rude but what exactly did you want to come around for?
A soft red appeared on his face on a normal person it would have been noticed but his silver-white hair made ever colour change in his face visible. "I wanted to ask you all to the founders' day ball. It is hold tonight at one of my brothers' office buildings. I normally don't go but I just............... I don't feel like being alone this day."
Understanding shone in Kagome stormy grey bleu eyes. He didn't want to be alone on the day Kikyo died that was understandable the only thing she didn't understand was why he wanted to go to this ball, but she was hardly in place to question him about it. "Sure we would love to come, don't we guys?
Miroke was making quit it motion while Sango looked at Kagome in horror. Then it hit her she had totally forgotten about Collection day, shit. Well there was no going back now. "I'm seeing you are all enthusiastic about it so I say its times to get ready for tonight. Why don't you wait upstairs in the living room Inu yasha we'll be with you soon."
Granting her the tiniest smile of gratitude he went to the door that leaded to the stairs to there privet living place. As soon as the door was closed Sango smashed her hands down. "You knew Kagome and now you're throwing the whole thing out of the window. You did this on purpose didn't you."
That did it slamming her own hands down in anger Kagome stood up from her chair. "You know Sango I would never do such a thing on purpose and for your information I hate to sink so low that we would turn Inu yasha down. Hell this is just one time we can plan a new night so no big lose."
By the end of Kagome's little speech Sango had already regained her senses. "I'm sorry Kagome I didn't mean to snap. Well let's get ready then are all those dresses coming in handy now or what."
The three of them went to the door to go upstairs except for Mrs. Kitsune. It wasn't until they where halfway that they noticed. Kagome turned around. "Aren't you coming with us?
Giving Kagome a warm smile Mrs. Kitsune shook her head. "No child them fancy party's isn't for us I'll stay ere and watch hè. Me and Ship will hold the fort till you come back." She ended her sentence with a big wink making Kagome giggle.
"Sure thing see you tomorrow then." With that she went after Sango and Miroke. Sango was waiting by the stairs for her. Together they went up to there rooms now the hard part would begin. Mrs. Kitsune had made a great deal of dresses and all where just as beautiful as the other. What to wear what to wear. If only all problems where as easy as this one.
~*~
Throwing one gown on the queen sized bed after another; Sango had a hard time choosing a dress. When she came to the last one she carefully holded it up. She had forgotten she own this one and it was perfect. The soft mauve creation consisted out of a strapless body, following every curve and loosened up at the knees. Because it was made from stretchy material it was easy to move in. digging up a pair of mauve heels she went to the bathroom.
Kagome was already there since she would be wearing the gown that Mrs. Kitsune had recently made. It was a gem. A green creation that closed with ribbons at the back. The bodice was moulded to her skin while the skirt itself was loose.
From a cabinet Kagome pulled the make-up back and hair supplies. All in all it took the two girls three hours to get ready. They had only one sneak attack from Miroke but Sango had been prepared for one of those and wired the copper handle from the door. It gave Miroke a nasty little shock.
Entering the living room fully dressed, they found Miroke and Inu yasha play the twenty question game. On the couch next to Miroke to water proof cloaks in neon yellow and Barbie pink where laid ready. The cloaks would cover them head to toe providing a shelter against the foul weather and also giving them some warmth.
Donning the cloaks Kagome and Sango motioned the boy's that it was time to go. "Get up you guys or the party will be over before we even get there."
Inu yasha took the lead. "We're going with the rover it's just down the street." The rover was a very ancient car that even a thief wouldn't want to steal. In other words the perfect car to use in hells kitchen. In the back Sango was arguing with Kagome.
"I'm not sitting in the back with that pervert." She flashed Kagome an intimidating glare.
Kagome just shrugged her shoulders. "I did it last time so it's your turn this time."
Sango looked very desperate now. "But Miroke never pulls any of his stunts on you, please Kagome?
Kagome let Sango dangle for a few minutes before giving in. "okay I'll do it, but you'll have to at least dance with him one time."
Scowling Sango gave a curt nod. "Don, but only if it's an up beat tempo I'm not waltzing with him again."
The reached the back door, time to face the fool weather. By the door Inu yasha and Miroke had donned there own rain coats. Shocking green and baby bleu. The whole ten minutes it took them to get to the car where a fight to not get blown away. Kagome let out a deep sight when she was finally in the car with the door firmly closed. "I just hope the weather doesn't get worse or we're going to be unable to get back."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
A/n: well don't keep me in the dark and let me know what you think.