DW: and so I'm back for a third chapter. Or fourth, as the fanfic site may
tell you. I would have been back sooner, but I got in a car accident last
Friday and then I had surgery two days later. Now, my car is un-drivable
and I'm in pain. Oh well, at least I have my Inu-chan to take care of me.
(And vicodin.)
Inu: WENCH! Where the hell have you been? You were gone for 2 days! Do you know that your sister tried to torture me while you were away? She kept yelling something about 'death to anime' or something like that. And she kept bringing over some boy who looked kinda like her and taking him into her room. And I wasn't allowed to chase those cats of yours either! Your mom kept squirting me with water and your dad kept glaring at me and mumbling something about me stealing his little girl!
DW: Gomen, Inu-babe. I should have warned you about my sister. She doesn't really like anime characters, even those who are real. Next time she gets on your nerves, just kill her for me or something. The guy is her boyfriend, Andy. My friends and I like to call them the 'love twins', since they look freakishly alike. And you had better not be chasing my cats. If you do, you'll be eating dirt for a week. Just chill about my dad. He gets like that sometimes.
Inu: I can really kill her?
DW: No, you better not. I finally managed to get my parents to trust you and understand about the whole mating thing for the most part. I don't need them knowing that my mate killed off my sister. And as for where I was, I was in the hospital.
Inu: Huh? Why were you in there? You aren't sick are you? Or hurt?
DW: No, I'm all better now, although I have a new respect for the TV show 'ER'. The operation went great, and I should be back to normal in a few weeks. Until then, you get to help me. But I realized that if I didn't keep working on this fic, then I'd go crazy. I hate being bored. I also found out that ice chips, lemon Jell-O, and blueberry muffins taste really good when you haven't eaten in over 12 hours, even when you hate lemon Jell- O and blueberry muffins.
Inu: Next time you get hurt, tell me. I might have been able to help! And don't worry, I'll be here to keep you company and sane. It's my job ya know.
DW: I don't think you would have been able to help, but I will. Now come here. I've missed petting those kawaii ears of yours. And you get to do the disclaimer again.
Inu: *purring* I own DW. She owns the OC's. You know what? Just go read the disclaimer for the last chapter. We're busy right now.
Chapter 3
Dawn came too quickly. Kagome was woken up by soft kisses on her forehead, cheeks, and nose. Opening her eyes, she looked into a familiar amber gaze and smiled.
Inuyasha smiled at her. "Ohayo, Kags."
Kagome reached up and brushed the hair out of his eyes. "Ohayo, Inu-chan." She yawned and stretched. "What time is it?"
"Almost seven. Sango and Miroku are getting ready. They will be your escorts to school and then home afterwards."
"Ok, but I would rather stay with you."
"I know. Hey, how about this. Tonight, we'll all go out to a club. That is, if your mom will let you."
"I'll ask her. I'm pretty sure that she will say yes, if I tell her that I'm going out with friends that is. I'm not too sure how to explain everything to her yet. Could you pick me up?"
"I'll see what I can do. Now, go get cleaned up. You have to get to school in an hour."
"Hai, Inuyasha."
The two exited her room and Inuyasha showed Kagome where the bathroom was. He waited while she washed up and brushed her hair. She was still in her uniform from the day before, but luckily it was still clean and not badly wrinkled.
30 minutes later, Kagome and Inuyasha made their way down the stairs to breakfast. They held hands as they walked into the kitchen. Kagome recognized Shippou and Kohaku from the night before. They were still in their pajamas. They waved to the couple as they entered the kitchen. Kagome waved back.
Sango and Miroku were there, both in their school uniforms. Kagome recognized some of her classmates who were at Black level, and there were a few Brown and White levels there as well.
All of them looked up as Kagome and Inuyasha entered the room. Sango smiled and said good morning as she handed Kagome a cherry frosted Pop-Tart. Kagome thanked her before starting on the warm cherry goodness wrapped in flaky pastry. The two had become instant best friends the night before, after everything had been explained.
Miroku was manning the toaster, popping Pop-Tarts in and out as more of the teens who went to school came down to breakfast. His right hand and arm were wrapped again with the cloth and rosary beads.
Glancing at the clock, he turned to Kagome and Sango.
"Ladies, it's almost time for us to leave. Grab your gear and be at the car in 5."
Sango and Kagome nodded. Sango left to get hers and Miroku's backpacks. Kagome felt Inuyasha's arms encircle her slim waist from behind as he pulled her into his chest and nuzzled her neck with his chin. He brushed her hair, which she had left down but pulled back out of her eyes, to the side and kissed her neck. "Be careful and be safe. Have Miroku or Sango call if anything happens" he whispered into her ear.
Kagome patted his hands reassuringly, her nails clicking against his claws. "Don't worry Inu-chan. I will. Now, I gotta get to school."
He pulled her back against him, tipping her chin up. Kagome allowed Inuyasha to kiss her before he released her. Kagome smiled over her shoulder as she exited the kitchen, winking a blue eye at the hanyou as she called back, "I love you, Inuyasha."
Inuyasha froze, feeling butterflies in his stomach and a strange happiness in his heart that had appeared when she had said those four words, along with the smile and wink. This was way better than anything he had ever felt with Kikyo.
Miroku walked over to the stunned Inuyasha and patted his shoulder. He knew what his friend was feeling. "Inuyasha, my man, welcome to the world of true love. It is a wonderful place, one where you get to wake up next to the girl of your dreams and feel all sorts of pleasant and mushy things every time you look at her, talk with her, or be with her. And, I must say, you have a very beautiful girl now. With a really hot body." He smiled lecherously and rubbed his hands together in the same manner.
Inuyasha raised an eyebrow at the other boy and growled. "You're sleeping with Sango, Miroku. I'd watch what you say about my Kagome."
"Oh, so she's now yours?"
He nodded, crossing his arms across his chest like a little boy. "Fuck yeah, she is, and that's the way it's going to stay. I'll kill anyone who comes in between us, and that includes perverted best friends. Now get to school before you're all late."
"Yes sir, Inuyasha sir. I shall be quick like the wind." Miroku threw him a mock salute before leaving the kitchen.
"Oh, and Miroku."
Miroku turned in the doorway, his violet eyes looking back at Inuyasha questioningly.
"Watch her for me and keep her safe. I don't want anything to happen to her."
Miroku flashed him a smile. "You have my word. We'll be back after school, and then you lovebirds can go back to cuddling and snuggling to your hearts content."
Miroku had to duck as a Pop-Tart was thrown his way. He expertly caught it before it hit the wall, having ducked many before. He exited the kitchen, munching on the pastry, and walked out the door, to where Kagome and Sango were waiting in Kagome's car. Kagome was in the driver's seat, and Sango was in the front with her.
Miroku leaned onto the passenger door with an elbow, eyeing Sango through the window and smiling at both girls. "Excuse me, o beautiful ones, o goddesses of love and perfection, o angels sent from heaven; I was wondering if you might be willing to give a poor miserable wretch such as myself a ride?"
Kagome giggled and Sango gave him an amused smile. "Get in the back, Houshi. And no touching either of us! You've been good the past few days about groping. Let's see how you do today." Sango said as Miroku climbed into the back.
The drive to school was uneventful. Kagome kept the music pumped and managed to stay under the speed limit. The cd for the trip was Happy 2b Hardcore: Chapter 5. Sango couldn't help but notice how Kagome's body seemed to automatically pick up the rhythm of the songs and move with it. She looked like she was dancing in her seat. They arrived at school and met up with some of the other Youkai members at the gates.
Miroku informed them of the situation and how Kagome was now Inuyasha's girlfriend. She showed them the necklace to prove it. Inuyasha had carved his name into it that morning while she washed up. He was making sure that no one would try to make a move on her. If they did, they were either very brave, very stupid, both, or had a serious death wish.
The day passed slowly. Classes were long and teachers were merciless, and Miroku got in trouble for groping Sango during English, resulting in him having a student-teacher conference during lunch. When lunchtime rolled around, Kagome and Sango waited for Miroku outside of the cafeteria. They were joined by a few more members of the Youkai. All were girls, and they were waiting for their boyfriends or guy friends.
There was Ayame, who was a Green level and Katie, who was a Yellow level. Ayame's necklace was Green and White. Sango explained that Ayame was really a White level in the gang, but her boyfriend, Kouga, was a Green level. That was why she had both colors. Kouga didn't go to school though, since he was 21 and had much bigger responsibilities. He was the leader of the wolf pack that was in the gang, as well as leader of the Green Levels.
Katie's boyfriend, Jake, was a Yellow level like her. He was leader of the Yellows, and a master when it came to martial arts and hand-to-hand combat too. He was actually being considered for a switch to Green level. He was in some of Kagome's classes, but she could not place the name to a face.
There were also a few Black levels in the group; their names were Hikaru, Ami, Sakura, and Tsyua. They were all two grades below the senior girls. The girls realized that they couldn't wait all day for Miroku or the other boys, so they entered the cafeteria without them.
The group of girls got their food and went and sat at a table that would easily fit at least 7 more close to a wall. Kagome noticed that as they walked to the table, they kept getting looks and whistles from various guys. Some were from the gang, and others were just regular guys at the school.
The other girls ignored the cat calls and looks and continued on to their table. They had been through this many times before. Kagome was in the center of the walking group, but she still saw the boys looking her way. It was kind of embarrassing. One boy in particular seemed to have his eyes glued to her, and he was making her a little nervous the way he was staring.
Reaching the table, the girls sat in such a way that Kagome had her back to a wall and that she had Sango on her right and Katie on her left. Ayame sat a space away from Katie. Katie and Sango had left the spots next to them open for Miroku and Jake, for whenever they and the other guys got there. The other girls sat in no particular order, but most followed what Sango and Katie had done and left spaces for their boyfriends or friends to sit.
While they ate, Kagome talked with Sango, Ayame, and Katie. She and the two other girls became best friends too. Kagome grinned inside. She had never had 3 best friends before, but she liked it. She found that Katie went to school on a regular basis, but that Ayame, being a wolf youkai, rarely went. She found it to be boring and too loud most of the time. She was just there that day because her boyfriend was busy, so she had nothing better to do at the mansion.
Both Katie and Ayame were surprised to find out that Kagome had been with Tasuki. They were even more surprised when they learned that she was now with Inuyasha. After Kikyo had betrayed him, he hadn't shown any interest in females of any species. His sudden decision to be with Kagome both puzzled and pleased them. Maybe now he would stop being so moody and aggressive towards everyone.
Miroku and the other guys still hadn't shown up by the time Kagome had finished her lunch. As she rose to throw away her trash, Sango looked up at her. By her expression, Kagome knew that she was asking if she wanted her to go with her.
Kagome shook her head and smiled. She was just going to throw her trash away. Sure, the trash cans were across the room and behind a crowd of students, but Kagome felt that she could handle it. She didn't want to seem dependent on others.
As she walked across the lunch room, she was aware that the members of the Youkai had their eyes on her as she passed. They knew who she was, and who she belonged to. They would be doing their best to keep her safe for their leader.
Kagome had just reached the trash can when a shadow fell across her. Looking up, she found herself looking at the guy who had been staring at her earlier while she walked to the table. He was tall and had messy brown hair and brown eyes. He smiled at her, and Kagome smiled back, thinking that he was just being polite. She turned to leave, but felt his hand grab her upper right arm.
Looking back at him, she politely smiled again and tried to get him to let go.
"Um.would you mind letting go of me? I need to get back to my friends."
The boy smiled again. "I'm sorry. I was just walking by and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Houjo."
"I'm Kagome, and while I hate to be rude, I really would like to get back to my friends now."
Houjo seemed to be oblivious to Kagome's words and discomfort. "Well, Kagome, I think that you're really cute, and I was wondering if you would like to go out with me tonight."
Not liking where the conversation was heading, Kagome tried to twist her arm out of his grasp in a move Tasuki had taught her, but he countered it and only gripped tighter, making her arm feel as though it were being crushed. She cried out from the pain. Desperately, Kagome tried to catch the eye of Sango, Ayame, or Katie, but all were blocked from view by the crowd of the lunch line.
There also seemed to be a crowd of students gathering around the two of them. The crowd was blocking the two of them in around the trash cans, keeping her from signaling for help. Kagome was definitely wishing that she had let Sango go with her.
Kagome tried to stay calm. "Listen, Houjo, I'm sorry, but I'm already seeing someone right now and-"
He cut her off, completely ignoring what she was saying. "Great! I'll pick you up at 8 tonight. What's your address?"
Before Kagome could answer, a deep and cold voice broke in. "Listen asshole, leave her alone. She's already taken, and she isn't interested in you at all. If you would grow some brain cells, you would have figured that out already. Let her go now before you get hurt."
Kagome turned a scared, yet grateful gaze to Miroku, who had finally arrived. She noticed the group of Youkai guys with him. Most of them were Black levels, but there was a few Browns and Whites, and one Yellow. Miroku had a dangerous glint in his narrowed eyes as he stared at Houjo. His wrapped right hand had been curled tightly into a fist.
Houjo's grip tightened on Kagome. She cried out in pain as he squeezed her arm, her knees shaking and threatening to collapse out from under her. The guy had a powerful grip, even through her jacket sleeve, and he was hitting nerves that ran through her entire body now. "Excuse me, but Kagome and I are having a private conversation. It is rude of you all to butt in."
At the sound of her cry, the other men of the gang had stepped forward, wanting to help and protect her. Miroku held out his left arm, keeping them back. He knew that they wanted to defend her, but as long as she was with Houjo, they couldn't risk him hurting her more.
Kagome looked back at Houjo. He had turned a little so that he could face Miroku and the others. It was then that Kagome noticed something that filled her with fear. A certain decoration on Houjo's neck, half hidden by his shirt collar; a small tattoo of a black spider. It was the mark of the Black Spider gang. Her face paled. They had found her. The bastard had found her.
Kagome knew that she had to get away, and so she reacted instinctively, letting what Tasuki had taught her fill her mind and take control of her body.
Ignoring the pain in her arm, she picked up her foot and ground down hard on Houjo's toes with her heel, causing him to loosen his grip on her. She then slammed the elbow of her free arm back into his stomach. His grip loosened even more as he doubled over in pain. A quick twist later and Kagome was free, and she spun around and delivered a powerful snap kick to his side as he fell to the ground in pain. Finished, she stepped back and found herself behind Miroku, surrounded on all sides by Youkai members who were amazed at what she had done.
Kagome clutched her aching arm as she watched Houjo writhing on the floor. He was in obvious pain, but Kagome held no sympathy for him. Moments later, Sango and the girls came running over. They had seen her take out the guy who was now on the floor, but had some trouble getting through the crowd that had formed.
Kagome was still pale from seeing the tattoo. Terror filled her heart as she realized the danger she and her family were now in and she began to tremble. Seeing Sango, she broke through the Youkai guys and ran over to her. Sango instinctively opened her arms and Kagome latched onto her in a fierce embrace, shaking as she cried.
Wrapping her in a tight hug, Sango felt the younger girl trembling and wondered what had set her off. "Kagome, sweetie, what happened? Who is this guy? What did he say and do to you?" She also was amazed at how quickly Kagome had shifted moods; first scared, then kicking ass, then crying.
Kagome said something, but it was muffled by Sango's jacket. Sango asked again. Kagome didn't answer this time. A shout was heard by the girls. Looking over, they saw Houjo get up and take off running out of the cafeteria, still clutching his side. None of the Youkai gave chase. They were too concerned with seeing if Kagome was ok.
Miroku looked over at Sango, a question in his eyes. Sango nodded her head above Kagome's, answering him. Even though the girl had not released her grip, Sango could tell that she had calmed down somewhat. Sango gently pushed Kagome away so that she could look into her face. Miroku was giving orders to the other members, but even he could see the fear and terror present in Kagome's blue-gray eyes.
Sango asked her again. "Kagome, who was that guy and what did he want?"
This time, Kagome answered clearly, though she kept stuttering as she sobbed. "H-he said that his name was Houjo. He wanted me to go out with him. H-he kept squeezing my arm and he wouldn't let me go, even when I tried to pull away! And then- and then I saw it! On his neck!" Kagome started crying again. Sango looked over at Miroku and gave him a get- Inuyasha-on-the-phone-now look. He took the hint and got out his cell.
Inuyasha answered immediately.
"Miroku, what's wrong? What's happened?"
Miroku tried to keep his voice cheerful. "Damn, Inuyasha. How did you know that it's me?"
Inuyasha wasn't fooled, but he went along with it. "Baka, I have all of your guy's numbers programmed to different ring tones. Trust me, I can tell when it's you. I gave you that 'Thong Song' by Sisqo. It reminds me of you and your lecherous brain. Now cut the crap and tell me, what's happened with Kagome?"
Miroku sighed. His false cheerfulness had been discovered. "Kagome got.well, for lack of a better word, confronted and attacked in the cafeteria a few minutes ago. Some ass asked her out and wouldn't let her get away when she declined. Me and some of the guys managed to get there in time to stop him from further harming her, but he still wouldn't let her go, until she made him."
He laughed slightly, remembering the look on Houjo's face when Kagome hit him. "You should have seen it, Inu. Kagome whipped out some kind of self- defense shit and took him out in under 7 seconds when he wouldn't let her go. The guy was on the floor and looked like he was going to cry!"
He became serious again. "But she's pretty messed up emotionally. She's clinging to Sango and she won't stop crying or shaking. The bastard hurt her arm when he grabbed her and kept squeezing."
Growling, the hanyou just said "Put her on." Inuyasha tried to stay calm. He was impressed with what Miroku had said about Kagome's defending herself. Tasuki had apparently taught her very well. Under 7 seconds.she was fast, that was for sure.
Miroku turned to Sango. "He wants to talk with her."
Sango gently pushed Kagome away again. "Kagome-chan, Inuyasha wants to talk to you. Will you let go so that you can talk on the phone?"
Kagome nodded, sniffing, and let go of Sango. She still seemed shaken as she accepted the phone from Miroku.
"Inu-chan?"
Inuyasha let the worry he had been feeling take over. "Kags, are you ok? Did he hurt you at all, baby?"
She felt relief flood over her at the sound of his voice. "He squeezed my arm. It hurts. I think I might have a bruise."
There was a growl on the other end, and then "Are you ok otherwise? Nothing else wrong?"
Kagome paused before speaking. It was better to tell him. He could help her. He would keep her safe. She started crying again. "No. No, I'm not ok. They've found me! Inuyasha, they've found me! That guy, that Houjo guy had the tattoo! A black spider on his neck and now Naraku knows that I'm back and he's going to come after me and kill me, or worse!" Kagome sobbed.
Inuyasha could hear the fear in her voice over the phone. She seemed to believe that there was something worse than being killed by Naraku's hand. He kept the questions that popped up to himself. He would ask her later, when she was calmer.
"Listen, Kags, I'm coming to the school now. Ok babe? Is that Joujo guy anywhere around you right now?"
She shook her head, not caring that he couldn't see the movement. "No, he left. He ran outside after I kicked him. He was on the floor, but then he got up and ran away."
Inuyasha sighed in relief. He was still angry. He wanted to get this Homo guy himself. "Ok, that's good, sweetie. Listen; stay close with Miroku and Sango. And if Ayame, Katie and Jake are there, stick with them too. I'll be there in a few minutes, love."
"Ok. I will."
"Ok, pass me back to Miroku."
"Alright."
"Kags, I love you. I'll be right there I promise. I won't let him get you."
"Ok. I love you too, Inu-chan."
With that, Kagome passed the phone back to Miroku. She allowed herself to be surrounded by her fellow members. They had heard what she had said. They were amazed that a Black Spider had gotten through their observations so easily. And even more amazed that a Black Spider actually went to school.
Inuyasha spoke quickly. He was already running out the door. "Listen Miroku, I'm on my way over right now. I have the feeling that Kagome isn't gonna want to stick out the rest of the day. If I'm right, then I'm going to take her home and explain everything to her mom. I'm gonna see if Kagome can live with us at the mansion. It will be a lot safer for her to be with us than at her home if Naraku is around and after her."
"Sure thing.Inu-chan."
Inuyasha growled over the phone. "Shut the hell up with the Inu-chan bit! Only Kagome can call me that. Now, I want you, Sango, Katie, Ayame, and Jake to keep a close watch on her until I get there. Send out some Black levels to see if that Hoko guy is around. Inform the rest of the members that Naraku might know that she's with us, and that he might attack."
"Gotcha, boss. Listen, going to a different subject here, are we still going out tonight?"
There was a pause, followed by what sounded like a laugh. "Miroku, I'm sorry, but you're just not my type, and I'm with Kagome now. Besides, aren't you already going out with Sango?"
Miroku chuckled, realizing he left himself open for that. "You know what I meant."
"It's gonna depend on how Kagome feels. I just want her with me tonight. IF we do go out, we're going someplace within or close by to our territory. I don't want anything else scaring her right now."
"Ok."
"I'll be there in a few. I'm on my way now."
"Later boss."
Miroku turned to the others and began relaying the orders. 10 Black levels were sent out in pairs to check out the school and its grounds. Miroku told the rest of the members that were there the news. He then told Ayame, Katie, Sango, Jake, and Kagome that Inuyasha wanted them in front of the school for when he got there. Jake and Katie ran back to the lunch table and got everyone's backpacks.
The group went out to the front of the school. The bell that ended lunch had rung about 10 minutes before. No one's mind was on school though. They were all trying to figure out how a Black Spider had gotten so close to Kagome without their knowledge. She had said that the tattoo was on his neck, so he most likely hid it with his collar and maybe make-up. It was an unsettling discovery.
Inuyasha arrived after a few minutes. He was dressed in baggy black jeans, a red shirt, black jacket, and red Vans. He ran up to the gates and Kagome rushed into his arms, taking comfort in the feel of them wrapping around her. He held her as she just cried; letting out all the fear and terror she had been keeping inside. He rubbed her back and stroked her hair, all the while whispering comforting words into her ears.
Miroku and the others just watched from a distance as he calmed her down and started kissing her. Kagome let him gently kiss his way down her face and neck, and then back up to her lips. He growled as he caught the scent of Houjo on her. He would fix that later, when they were alone. Remembering her hurt arm, he gently pushed her away so that he could examine it.
Kagome removed her jacket. Miroku and the others approached at this time, sensing that it was safe. No one had wanted to interrupt Inuyasha while he was busy with Kagome. They knew that his demon half could have reacted in a very violent way if he thought that they were getting to close to the crying girl. It was his instinct to protect her, and it sometimes had trouble telling friend from foe in the past.
Sango gasped at the sight of the bruise forming on Kagome's upper arm already. It was a dark purplish-blue and black band that went around her entire arm. Each of her attacker's individual finger imprints could be seen in the bruise. That Houjo guy was stronger than he looked!
Inuyasha growled again and bared his fangs at the bruise, as if trying to scare it away. He gently felt her arm to see if anything else was hurt. Feeling nothing wrong, he pulled Kagome close, wrapping his arms around her waist and putting her back against his chest. She backed in closer, almost as if she were trying to become one with him.
He pulled his open jacket around her, creating a cocoon that let her absorb the heat he was giving off. He breathed in her scent, letting it calm him. Finding out about the attack had made him worry the entire time he was running over there. He had almost lost his cool a few times, wanting to go full demon so that he could take out the bastard who hurt his Kagome.
Resting his chin on her head, which barely made it to his shoulders, he looked at Miroku. "Did you send out the Black levels?"
Miroku nodded. "Yeah, and I also informed everyone else who were there. They are going to keep a sharp eye out for this guy, and also they are going to start paying better attention to the other students around us."
Inuyasha nodded and turned his attention to the other male teenager, Jake. Jake was the gang's expert at hand-to-hand combat and martial arts of all kinds. He was the best after Tasuki, while he had still been alive, and Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru. "Jake, did he seem like he was trained well?"
Jake remembered the bruise on Kagome's arm, which was inside Inuyasha's jacket at the moment. "Well, he didn't put up much of a fight, but the mark he left on Kagome there tells me that he's a lot stronger than he looks. He might possibly know some stuff on pressure points too, from the way he was making her cry. Kagome was the one who took him down, so I really don't know how good of a fighter he is."
Looking at Kagome, Jake smiled. "Those were some kick-ass reflexes there. You had him on the ground in about 6 seconds. Not bad. You must be Tasuki's old girl. He's the only human in the gang I know, and everywhere else that I can think of, who could move that fast."
Kagome sniffed and nodded. "Yeah. He trained me so that I could defend myself in case Naraku ever tried something. He wanted to make sure that I was safe at all times. I just never brought myself to using it before." 'Except for when I got away from all of them the first time.'
Inuyasha turned his attention to Kagome now. "Kags, I need to know. Do you want to finish the day at school? I can take you home if you want. We're gonna need to tell your mom the situation anyways, and set up a way for you and your family to be safe."
Kagome twisted herself in his arms so that she was facing him again. She buried her face in his chest. "As much as I want to finish the day off, I'm still scared. I don't know if Houjo or anyone else from the Spiders is still here. I think I'll go home. We can tell my mom everything that has happened. Plus, there was something that I wanted to ask her, concerning all of this. And she doesn't know about you and me being together yet either."
Inuyasha nodded. He got Kagome's backpack from Katie. "You guys go back to class. Tell everyone that there is going to be a meeting at the mansion after school. Spread the word."
As the others nodded, Inuyasha released Kagome from his arms and turned around. Kneeling down, he looked over his shoulder. "Get on, sweetheart. This is a much quicker way to travel."
Kagome looked at him. "But what about my car?"
Sango stepped up. "I'll take it back to the mansion. We can either drop it by your house later tonight or you can have Inuyasha bring you back to pick it up."
Slipping her jacket back on, Kagome nodded and gave Sango the keys. She then walked back over to Inuyasha and climbed up on his back. He hooked his hands around and under her thighs, and Kagome wrapped her arms securely around his neck, making sure that she wouldn't fall off.
As soon as she was secure, Inuyasha leapt off of the ground and into the air. Kagome gasped as they flew through the air. Inuyasha landed on a nearby roof and immediately took off again. Landing again, he paused long enough for Kagome to tell him the general direction of her house and the street address.
They flew together through the city. Inuyasha used buildings and trees as springboards to launch him and Kagome through the air. Kagome shrieked with laughter each time they raised into the air. The movement caused a tickle feeling in her stomach, and it made her laugh. Their hair flew back with the wind, tangling together in a silver and black stream.
People on the streets stopped to stare up at the red and blue blob that streaked across the sky. The flying journey through downtown Tokyo took Kagome's mind off of what had happened earlier. She was too absorbed with the sensation that she was flying and free.
Inuyasha had been hoping that would happen. She needed something to pick her mood up after what had happened. Unfortunately, all fun times had to end at some point, and theirs ended as Inuyasha reached her street.
They landed in front of Kagome's house a few moments later. Kagome climbed off of Inuyasha's back and he took her hand as they walked up to the front door. At the sound of the door opening, Kagome's mother looked out of the kitchen.
"Kagome? Why are you home? Did something happen at school?" She saw Inuyasha holding hands with Kagome. "Kagome, who is this young man?"
"Mom, this is Inuyasha. He is one of the leaders of the Youkai gang. They are the rivals of the Black Spiders. And.he's my new boyfriend."
Kagome's mom frowned. She was both puzzled and shocked by this new information. "But, honey, I thought that the Youkai gang killed Tasuki. That's what you were told, wasn't it?"
Kagome shook her head. Her mom was just as confused as she had been at first. "No, it was really Naraku, the leader of the Spiders. Tasuki was really a member of the Youkai. He was spying on the Spiders for the Youkai when he met me. He was planning on taking me to the Youkai the night that he was killed. Inuyasha, in respecting Tasuki's last wishes, made me a member and is taking care of me. He's protecting me, and you guys too, from Naraku."
She smiled up at Inuyasha and squeezed his hand. "And, I guess you can see that we've turned it into something more than just a protecting relationship." He smiled back down at her.
Her smile faded into a more serious face and she looked at her mom. "This brings me to why I am here, instead of in class. I was attacked at school today by a member of the Black Spiders. Now, I'm afraid that they will come after us here at the house. We're in neutral territory here, which means that either side can come here and not be trespassing. This is why.I need to ask you something mama."
Kagome's mom had been frightened when she heard that her daughter had been attacked. But the thought of the Black Spiders coming after the family in their own home was even more frightening. She tried to stay calm and not faint. "Sure thing, honey. What is it?"
Kagome took a deep breath before continuing. This was hard on her. "I wanted to know if I could live with Inuyasha at the Youkai mansion. I'll be safer there." She paused before continuing. "Also, I wanted to know if you could take Souta and go back to Aunt Gemma's for a while. Just until this whole thing is over. I don't want anything happening to you or Souta."
Kagome's mother stayed silent. She seemed to be thinking about it. Finally, she spoke again. "As much as I don't want to say yes, I feel as though I have no choice. If it means that our family will be protected, then I give you my permission to move in with Inuyasha. I will tell Souta when he gets home from school, and I shall call your aunt. If that doesn't work out, then we will go and move in with your grandfather at the family shrine."
Kagome's mom walked over and gave her daughter a hug. "I just want you to be safe and happy, my love."
Kagome hugged her mother back. "Being with Inuyasha makes me feel safe and happy. I love him mom. I didn't think that I would love anyone after Tasuki, but when I met Inuyasha, I fell for him the instant I saw him."
Kagome's mom walked over to Inuyasha next. "Young man, please take care of my daughter. She has been through so much pain. I don't want to see her hurt anymore."
Inuyasha nodded. "Ma'am, I promise that I will protect her life with my own. I love her, and I would die for her."
Kagome's mother nodded, and then pulled him into a hug. Inuyasha was surprised. Her mom whispered into his ear, "She truly loves you. She loved Tasuki, but never this much. You are her true soul mate. I'm a mother, I can tell. Take care of her for me."
Inuyasha just nodded, digesting what had been said. Kagome reached for his hand. "Come on, Inu-chan. We need to get my stuff." He allowed himself to be led up the stairs to her room.
In her room, Kagome proceeded to pack her life back into her bags. Stuffed animals, clothes, books, posters, pictures, jewelry, and other things all wound up in 4 suitcases, two large boxes, and 2 backpacks, one of which seemed to magically expand to about 5 times its normal size. Looking at it all, Kagome realized that she should have brought her car.
Inuyasha told her that they didn't need it. He whipped out his cell phone and punched in a number. He spoke with someone on the other end and gave them her address. Ending the call, he saw Kagome staring at her empty room. Walking over to her, he pulled her close to him.
"Love, it's for the best. I know you don't want to do this, but it's the only way I know of to keep you and your family safe. And, if you hadn't asked your mom, I was going to ask her for you. I want to keep you safe, and at the mansion, you will be safe with me. And I'll make sure that your family is kept safe as well."
Kagome only nodded. She knew that he was right. They stayed together, waiting until they heard a car honking its horn from outside the house. Inuyasha nuzzled her head. "That's our ride."
Grabbing two of her suitcases, he went downstairs. Kagome followed with the smaller of the two backpacks, dragging it behind her. Her mother followed them outside, carrying one of her boxes, to where Nobunaga and Midoriko were waiting next to a black Escalade.
They loaded all of her belongings into the back of the car, Inuyasha having to go back upstairs and get the rest of her bags, the box, and the larger backpack. Kagome gave her mother one last hug and kiss, and promised to call that night, to see what the plans were.
Kagome allowed Inuyasha to gently pull her into the car. She stayed silent the entire drive to the mansion, but Inuyasha smelled the salt of her tears as she looked out the window. It mixed with her natural scent. He reached around her and pulled her close, letting her head rest on his shoulder. He knew that leaving her family hurt, but it was for the best. He would make it up to her somehow.
Midoriko and Nobunaga looked at each other up in the front of the car. They had heard what had happened. The Black Spiders had attacked Inuyasha's girl. And they both knew what that meant. It was total war now.
~*~*~ Sorry for not updating like I said I would. Finals week has snuck up on me, and while I only have 2, they are much important. Anyways, you can expect a greater consistency of updating from me once I'm back home.
Ok, people who I really want to thank for reviewing!! Maritropa
EvilBunnies1
jo
a
ChIbIMiDNiGhT-SaKaI
CoLdHeArTeDtEaRz
Chibi Children
yokokuramasgrl2
Meagan
Anime-Luver32
KagomeHigurashi66
shanaka
And a really big thank you to
lavenderrose98
and is also the first one to talk to me online! This chapter's for you!
Inu: WENCH! Where the hell have you been? You were gone for 2 days! Do you know that your sister tried to torture me while you were away? She kept yelling something about 'death to anime' or something like that. And she kept bringing over some boy who looked kinda like her and taking him into her room. And I wasn't allowed to chase those cats of yours either! Your mom kept squirting me with water and your dad kept glaring at me and mumbling something about me stealing his little girl!
DW: Gomen, Inu-babe. I should have warned you about my sister. She doesn't really like anime characters, even those who are real. Next time she gets on your nerves, just kill her for me or something. The guy is her boyfriend, Andy. My friends and I like to call them the 'love twins', since they look freakishly alike. And you had better not be chasing my cats. If you do, you'll be eating dirt for a week. Just chill about my dad. He gets like that sometimes.
Inu: I can really kill her?
DW: No, you better not. I finally managed to get my parents to trust you and understand about the whole mating thing for the most part. I don't need them knowing that my mate killed off my sister. And as for where I was, I was in the hospital.
Inu: Huh? Why were you in there? You aren't sick are you? Or hurt?
DW: No, I'm all better now, although I have a new respect for the TV show 'ER'. The operation went great, and I should be back to normal in a few weeks. Until then, you get to help me. But I realized that if I didn't keep working on this fic, then I'd go crazy. I hate being bored. I also found out that ice chips, lemon Jell-O, and blueberry muffins taste really good when you haven't eaten in over 12 hours, even when you hate lemon Jell- O and blueberry muffins.
Inu: Next time you get hurt, tell me. I might have been able to help! And don't worry, I'll be here to keep you company and sane. It's my job ya know.
DW: I don't think you would have been able to help, but I will. Now come here. I've missed petting those kawaii ears of yours. And you get to do the disclaimer again.
Inu: *purring* I own DW. She owns the OC's. You know what? Just go read the disclaimer for the last chapter. We're busy right now.
Chapter 3
Dawn came too quickly. Kagome was woken up by soft kisses on her forehead, cheeks, and nose. Opening her eyes, she looked into a familiar amber gaze and smiled.
Inuyasha smiled at her. "Ohayo, Kags."
Kagome reached up and brushed the hair out of his eyes. "Ohayo, Inu-chan." She yawned and stretched. "What time is it?"
"Almost seven. Sango and Miroku are getting ready. They will be your escorts to school and then home afterwards."
"Ok, but I would rather stay with you."
"I know. Hey, how about this. Tonight, we'll all go out to a club. That is, if your mom will let you."
"I'll ask her. I'm pretty sure that she will say yes, if I tell her that I'm going out with friends that is. I'm not too sure how to explain everything to her yet. Could you pick me up?"
"I'll see what I can do. Now, go get cleaned up. You have to get to school in an hour."
"Hai, Inuyasha."
The two exited her room and Inuyasha showed Kagome where the bathroom was. He waited while she washed up and brushed her hair. She was still in her uniform from the day before, but luckily it was still clean and not badly wrinkled.
30 minutes later, Kagome and Inuyasha made their way down the stairs to breakfast. They held hands as they walked into the kitchen. Kagome recognized Shippou and Kohaku from the night before. They were still in their pajamas. They waved to the couple as they entered the kitchen. Kagome waved back.
Sango and Miroku were there, both in their school uniforms. Kagome recognized some of her classmates who were at Black level, and there were a few Brown and White levels there as well.
All of them looked up as Kagome and Inuyasha entered the room. Sango smiled and said good morning as she handed Kagome a cherry frosted Pop-Tart. Kagome thanked her before starting on the warm cherry goodness wrapped in flaky pastry. The two had become instant best friends the night before, after everything had been explained.
Miroku was manning the toaster, popping Pop-Tarts in and out as more of the teens who went to school came down to breakfast. His right hand and arm were wrapped again with the cloth and rosary beads.
Glancing at the clock, he turned to Kagome and Sango.
"Ladies, it's almost time for us to leave. Grab your gear and be at the car in 5."
Sango and Kagome nodded. Sango left to get hers and Miroku's backpacks. Kagome felt Inuyasha's arms encircle her slim waist from behind as he pulled her into his chest and nuzzled her neck with his chin. He brushed her hair, which she had left down but pulled back out of her eyes, to the side and kissed her neck. "Be careful and be safe. Have Miroku or Sango call if anything happens" he whispered into her ear.
Kagome patted his hands reassuringly, her nails clicking against his claws. "Don't worry Inu-chan. I will. Now, I gotta get to school."
He pulled her back against him, tipping her chin up. Kagome allowed Inuyasha to kiss her before he released her. Kagome smiled over her shoulder as she exited the kitchen, winking a blue eye at the hanyou as she called back, "I love you, Inuyasha."
Inuyasha froze, feeling butterflies in his stomach and a strange happiness in his heart that had appeared when she had said those four words, along with the smile and wink. This was way better than anything he had ever felt with Kikyo.
Miroku walked over to the stunned Inuyasha and patted his shoulder. He knew what his friend was feeling. "Inuyasha, my man, welcome to the world of true love. It is a wonderful place, one where you get to wake up next to the girl of your dreams and feel all sorts of pleasant and mushy things every time you look at her, talk with her, or be with her. And, I must say, you have a very beautiful girl now. With a really hot body." He smiled lecherously and rubbed his hands together in the same manner.
Inuyasha raised an eyebrow at the other boy and growled. "You're sleeping with Sango, Miroku. I'd watch what you say about my Kagome."
"Oh, so she's now yours?"
He nodded, crossing his arms across his chest like a little boy. "Fuck yeah, she is, and that's the way it's going to stay. I'll kill anyone who comes in between us, and that includes perverted best friends. Now get to school before you're all late."
"Yes sir, Inuyasha sir. I shall be quick like the wind." Miroku threw him a mock salute before leaving the kitchen.
"Oh, and Miroku."
Miroku turned in the doorway, his violet eyes looking back at Inuyasha questioningly.
"Watch her for me and keep her safe. I don't want anything to happen to her."
Miroku flashed him a smile. "You have my word. We'll be back after school, and then you lovebirds can go back to cuddling and snuggling to your hearts content."
Miroku had to duck as a Pop-Tart was thrown his way. He expertly caught it before it hit the wall, having ducked many before. He exited the kitchen, munching on the pastry, and walked out the door, to where Kagome and Sango were waiting in Kagome's car. Kagome was in the driver's seat, and Sango was in the front with her.
Miroku leaned onto the passenger door with an elbow, eyeing Sango through the window and smiling at both girls. "Excuse me, o beautiful ones, o goddesses of love and perfection, o angels sent from heaven; I was wondering if you might be willing to give a poor miserable wretch such as myself a ride?"
Kagome giggled and Sango gave him an amused smile. "Get in the back, Houshi. And no touching either of us! You've been good the past few days about groping. Let's see how you do today." Sango said as Miroku climbed into the back.
The drive to school was uneventful. Kagome kept the music pumped and managed to stay under the speed limit. The cd for the trip was Happy 2b Hardcore: Chapter 5. Sango couldn't help but notice how Kagome's body seemed to automatically pick up the rhythm of the songs and move with it. She looked like she was dancing in her seat. They arrived at school and met up with some of the other Youkai members at the gates.
Miroku informed them of the situation and how Kagome was now Inuyasha's girlfriend. She showed them the necklace to prove it. Inuyasha had carved his name into it that morning while she washed up. He was making sure that no one would try to make a move on her. If they did, they were either very brave, very stupid, both, or had a serious death wish.
The day passed slowly. Classes were long and teachers were merciless, and Miroku got in trouble for groping Sango during English, resulting in him having a student-teacher conference during lunch. When lunchtime rolled around, Kagome and Sango waited for Miroku outside of the cafeteria. They were joined by a few more members of the Youkai. All were girls, and they were waiting for their boyfriends or guy friends.
There was Ayame, who was a Green level and Katie, who was a Yellow level. Ayame's necklace was Green and White. Sango explained that Ayame was really a White level in the gang, but her boyfriend, Kouga, was a Green level. That was why she had both colors. Kouga didn't go to school though, since he was 21 and had much bigger responsibilities. He was the leader of the wolf pack that was in the gang, as well as leader of the Green Levels.
Katie's boyfriend, Jake, was a Yellow level like her. He was leader of the Yellows, and a master when it came to martial arts and hand-to-hand combat too. He was actually being considered for a switch to Green level. He was in some of Kagome's classes, but she could not place the name to a face.
There were also a few Black levels in the group; their names were Hikaru, Ami, Sakura, and Tsyua. They were all two grades below the senior girls. The girls realized that they couldn't wait all day for Miroku or the other boys, so they entered the cafeteria without them.
The group of girls got their food and went and sat at a table that would easily fit at least 7 more close to a wall. Kagome noticed that as they walked to the table, they kept getting looks and whistles from various guys. Some were from the gang, and others were just regular guys at the school.
The other girls ignored the cat calls and looks and continued on to their table. They had been through this many times before. Kagome was in the center of the walking group, but she still saw the boys looking her way. It was kind of embarrassing. One boy in particular seemed to have his eyes glued to her, and he was making her a little nervous the way he was staring.
Reaching the table, the girls sat in such a way that Kagome had her back to a wall and that she had Sango on her right and Katie on her left. Ayame sat a space away from Katie. Katie and Sango had left the spots next to them open for Miroku and Jake, for whenever they and the other guys got there. The other girls sat in no particular order, but most followed what Sango and Katie had done and left spaces for their boyfriends or friends to sit.
While they ate, Kagome talked with Sango, Ayame, and Katie. She and the two other girls became best friends too. Kagome grinned inside. She had never had 3 best friends before, but she liked it. She found that Katie went to school on a regular basis, but that Ayame, being a wolf youkai, rarely went. She found it to be boring and too loud most of the time. She was just there that day because her boyfriend was busy, so she had nothing better to do at the mansion.
Both Katie and Ayame were surprised to find out that Kagome had been with Tasuki. They were even more surprised when they learned that she was now with Inuyasha. After Kikyo had betrayed him, he hadn't shown any interest in females of any species. His sudden decision to be with Kagome both puzzled and pleased them. Maybe now he would stop being so moody and aggressive towards everyone.
Miroku and the other guys still hadn't shown up by the time Kagome had finished her lunch. As she rose to throw away her trash, Sango looked up at her. By her expression, Kagome knew that she was asking if she wanted her to go with her.
Kagome shook her head and smiled. She was just going to throw her trash away. Sure, the trash cans were across the room and behind a crowd of students, but Kagome felt that she could handle it. She didn't want to seem dependent on others.
As she walked across the lunch room, she was aware that the members of the Youkai had their eyes on her as she passed. They knew who she was, and who she belonged to. They would be doing their best to keep her safe for their leader.
Kagome had just reached the trash can when a shadow fell across her. Looking up, she found herself looking at the guy who had been staring at her earlier while she walked to the table. He was tall and had messy brown hair and brown eyes. He smiled at her, and Kagome smiled back, thinking that he was just being polite. She turned to leave, but felt his hand grab her upper right arm.
Looking back at him, she politely smiled again and tried to get him to let go.
"Um.would you mind letting go of me? I need to get back to my friends."
The boy smiled again. "I'm sorry. I was just walking by and wanted to introduce myself. My name is Houjo."
"I'm Kagome, and while I hate to be rude, I really would like to get back to my friends now."
Houjo seemed to be oblivious to Kagome's words and discomfort. "Well, Kagome, I think that you're really cute, and I was wondering if you would like to go out with me tonight."
Not liking where the conversation was heading, Kagome tried to twist her arm out of his grasp in a move Tasuki had taught her, but he countered it and only gripped tighter, making her arm feel as though it were being crushed. She cried out from the pain. Desperately, Kagome tried to catch the eye of Sango, Ayame, or Katie, but all were blocked from view by the crowd of the lunch line.
There also seemed to be a crowd of students gathering around the two of them. The crowd was blocking the two of them in around the trash cans, keeping her from signaling for help. Kagome was definitely wishing that she had let Sango go with her.
Kagome tried to stay calm. "Listen, Houjo, I'm sorry, but I'm already seeing someone right now and-"
He cut her off, completely ignoring what she was saying. "Great! I'll pick you up at 8 tonight. What's your address?"
Before Kagome could answer, a deep and cold voice broke in. "Listen asshole, leave her alone. She's already taken, and she isn't interested in you at all. If you would grow some brain cells, you would have figured that out already. Let her go now before you get hurt."
Kagome turned a scared, yet grateful gaze to Miroku, who had finally arrived. She noticed the group of Youkai guys with him. Most of them were Black levels, but there was a few Browns and Whites, and one Yellow. Miroku had a dangerous glint in his narrowed eyes as he stared at Houjo. His wrapped right hand had been curled tightly into a fist.
Houjo's grip tightened on Kagome. She cried out in pain as he squeezed her arm, her knees shaking and threatening to collapse out from under her. The guy had a powerful grip, even through her jacket sleeve, and he was hitting nerves that ran through her entire body now. "Excuse me, but Kagome and I are having a private conversation. It is rude of you all to butt in."
At the sound of her cry, the other men of the gang had stepped forward, wanting to help and protect her. Miroku held out his left arm, keeping them back. He knew that they wanted to defend her, but as long as she was with Houjo, they couldn't risk him hurting her more.
Kagome looked back at Houjo. He had turned a little so that he could face Miroku and the others. It was then that Kagome noticed something that filled her with fear. A certain decoration on Houjo's neck, half hidden by his shirt collar; a small tattoo of a black spider. It was the mark of the Black Spider gang. Her face paled. They had found her. The bastard had found her.
Kagome knew that she had to get away, and so she reacted instinctively, letting what Tasuki had taught her fill her mind and take control of her body.
Ignoring the pain in her arm, she picked up her foot and ground down hard on Houjo's toes with her heel, causing him to loosen his grip on her. She then slammed the elbow of her free arm back into his stomach. His grip loosened even more as he doubled over in pain. A quick twist later and Kagome was free, and she spun around and delivered a powerful snap kick to his side as he fell to the ground in pain. Finished, she stepped back and found herself behind Miroku, surrounded on all sides by Youkai members who were amazed at what she had done.
Kagome clutched her aching arm as she watched Houjo writhing on the floor. He was in obvious pain, but Kagome held no sympathy for him. Moments later, Sango and the girls came running over. They had seen her take out the guy who was now on the floor, but had some trouble getting through the crowd that had formed.
Kagome was still pale from seeing the tattoo. Terror filled her heart as she realized the danger she and her family were now in and she began to tremble. Seeing Sango, she broke through the Youkai guys and ran over to her. Sango instinctively opened her arms and Kagome latched onto her in a fierce embrace, shaking as she cried.
Wrapping her in a tight hug, Sango felt the younger girl trembling and wondered what had set her off. "Kagome, sweetie, what happened? Who is this guy? What did he say and do to you?" She also was amazed at how quickly Kagome had shifted moods; first scared, then kicking ass, then crying.
Kagome said something, but it was muffled by Sango's jacket. Sango asked again. Kagome didn't answer this time. A shout was heard by the girls. Looking over, they saw Houjo get up and take off running out of the cafeteria, still clutching his side. None of the Youkai gave chase. They were too concerned with seeing if Kagome was ok.
Miroku looked over at Sango, a question in his eyes. Sango nodded her head above Kagome's, answering him. Even though the girl had not released her grip, Sango could tell that she had calmed down somewhat. Sango gently pushed Kagome away so that she could look into her face. Miroku was giving orders to the other members, but even he could see the fear and terror present in Kagome's blue-gray eyes.
Sango asked her again. "Kagome, who was that guy and what did he want?"
This time, Kagome answered clearly, though she kept stuttering as she sobbed. "H-he said that his name was Houjo. He wanted me to go out with him. H-he kept squeezing my arm and he wouldn't let me go, even when I tried to pull away! And then- and then I saw it! On his neck!" Kagome started crying again. Sango looked over at Miroku and gave him a get- Inuyasha-on-the-phone-now look. He took the hint and got out his cell.
Inuyasha answered immediately.
"Miroku, what's wrong? What's happened?"
Miroku tried to keep his voice cheerful. "Damn, Inuyasha. How did you know that it's me?"
Inuyasha wasn't fooled, but he went along with it. "Baka, I have all of your guy's numbers programmed to different ring tones. Trust me, I can tell when it's you. I gave you that 'Thong Song' by Sisqo. It reminds me of you and your lecherous brain. Now cut the crap and tell me, what's happened with Kagome?"
Miroku sighed. His false cheerfulness had been discovered. "Kagome got.well, for lack of a better word, confronted and attacked in the cafeteria a few minutes ago. Some ass asked her out and wouldn't let her get away when she declined. Me and some of the guys managed to get there in time to stop him from further harming her, but he still wouldn't let her go, until she made him."
He laughed slightly, remembering the look on Houjo's face when Kagome hit him. "You should have seen it, Inu. Kagome whipped out some kind of self- defense shit and took him out in under 7 seconds when he wouldn't let her go. The guy was on the floor and looked like he was going to cry!"
He became serious again. "But she's pretty messed up emotionally. She's clinging to Sango and she won't stop crying or shaking. The bastard hurt her arm when he grabbed her and kept squeezing."
Growling, the hanyou just said "Put her on." Inuyasha tried to stay calm. He was impressed with what Miroku had said about Kagome's defending herself. Tasuki had apparently taught her very well. Under 7 seconds.she was fast, that was for sure.
Miroku turned to Sango. "He wants to talk with her."
Sango gently pushed Kagome away again. "Kagome-chan, Inuyasha wants to talk to you. Will you let go so that you can talk on the phone?"
Kagome nodded, sniffing, and let go of Sango. She still seemed shaken as she accepted the phone from Miroku.
"Inu-chan?"
Inuyasha let the worry he had been feeling take over. "Kags, are you ok? Did he hurt you at all, baby?"
She felt relief flood over her at the sound of his voice. "He squeezed my arm. It hurts. I think I might have a bruise."
There was a growl on the other end, and then "Are you ok otherwise? Nothing else wrong?"
Kagome paused before speaking. It was better to tell him. He could help her. He would keep her safe. She started crying again. "No. No, I'm not ok. They've found me! Inuyasha, they've found me! That guy, that Houjo guy had the tattoo! A black spider on his neck and now Naraku knows that I'm back and he's going to come after me and kill me, or worse!" Kagome sobbed.
Inuyasha could hear the fear in her voice over the phone. She seemed to believe that there was something worse than being killed by Naraku's hand. He kept the questions that popped up to himself. He would ask her later, when she was calmer.
"Listen, Kags, I'm coming to the school now. Ok babe? Is that Joujo guy anywhere around you right now?"
She shook her head, not caring that he couldn't see the movement. "No, he left. He ran outside after I kicked him. He was on the floor, but then he got up and ran away."
Inuyasha sighed in relief. He was still angry. He wanted to get this Homo guy himself. "Ok, that's good, sweetie. Listen; stay close with Miroku and Sango. And if Ayame, Katie and Jake are there, stick with them too. I'll be there in a few minutes, love."
"Ok. I will."
"Ok, pass me back to Miroku."
"Alright."
"Kags, I love you. I'll be right there I promise. I won't let him get you."
"Ok. I love you too, Inu-chan."
With that, Kagome passed the phone back to Miroku. She allowed herself to be surrounded by her fellow members. They had heard what she had said. They were amazed that a Black Spider had gotten through their observations so easily. And even more amazed that a Black Spider actually went to school.
Inuyasha spoke quickly. He was already running out the door. "Listen Miroku, I'm on my way over right now. I have the feeling that Kagome isn't gonna want to stick out the rest of the day. If I'm right, then I'm going to take her home and explain everything to her mom. I'm gonna see if Kagome can live with us at the mansion. It will be a lot safer for her to be with us than at her home if Naraku is around and after her."
"Sure thing.Inu-chan."
Inuyasha growled over the phone. "Shut the hell up with the Inu-chan bit! Only Kagome can call me that. Now, I want you, Sango, Katie, Ayame, and Jake to keep a close watch on her until I get there. Send out some Black levels to see if that Hoko guy is around. Inform the rest of the members that Naraku might know that she's with us, and that he might attack."
"Gotcha, boss. Listen, going to a different subject here, are we still going out tonight?"
There was a pause, followed by what sounded like a laugh. "Miroku, I'm sorry, but you're just not my type, and I'm with Kagome now. Besides, aren't you already going out with Sango?"
Miroku chuckled, realizing he left himself open for that. "You know what I meant."
"It's gonna depend on how Kagome feels. I just want her with me tonight. IF we do go out, we're going someplace within or close by to our territory. I don't want anything else scaring her right now."
"Ok."
"I'll be there in a few. I'm on my way now."
"Later boss."
Miroku turned to the others and began relaying the orders. 10 Black levels were sent out in pairs to check out the school and its grounds. Miroku told the rest of the members that were there the news. He then told Ayame, Katie, Sango, Jake, and Kagome that Inuyasha wanted them in front of the school for when he got there. Jake and Katie ran back to the lunch table and got everyone's backpacks.
The group went out to the front of the school. The bell that ended lunch had rung about 10 minutes before. No one's mind was on school though. They were all trying to figure out how a Black Spider had gotten so close to Kagome without their knowledge. She had said that the tattoo was on his neck, so he most likely hid it with his collar and maybe make-up. It was an unsettling discovery.
Inuyasha arrived after a few minutes. He was dressed in baggy black jeans, a red shirt, black jacket, and red Vans. He ran up to the gates and Kagome rushed into his arms, taking comfort in the feel of them wrapping around her. He held her as she just cried; letting out all the fear and terror she had been keeping inside. He rubbed her back and stroked her hair, all the while whispering comforting words into her ears.
Miroku and the others just watched from a distance as he calmed her down and started kissing her. Kagome let him gently kiss his way down her face and neck, and then back up to her lips. He growled as he caught the scent of Houjo on her. He would fix that later, when they were alone. Remembering her hurt arm, he gently pushed her away so that he could examine it.
Kagome removed her jacket. Miroku and the others approached at this time, sensing that it was safe. No one had wanted to interrupt Inuyasha while he was busy with Kagome. They knew that his demon half could have reacted in a very violent way if he thought that they were getting to close to the crying girl. It was his instinct to protect her, and it sometimes had trouble telling friend from foe in the past.
Sango gasped at the sight of the bruise forming on Kagome's upper arm already. It was a dark purplish-blue and black band that went around her entire arm. Each of her attacker's individual finger imprints could be seen in the bruise. That Houjo guy was stronger than he looked!
Inuyasha growled again and bared his fangs at the bruise, as if trying to scare it away. He gently felt her arm to see if anything else was hurt. Feeling nothing wrong, he pulled Kagome close, wrapping his arms around her waist and putting her back against his chest. She backed in closer, almost as if she were trying to become one with him.
He pulled his open jacket around her, creating a cocoon that let her absorb the heat he was giving off. He breathed in her scent, letting it calm him. Finding out about the attack had made him worry the entire time he was running over there. He had almost lost his cool a few times, wanting to go full demon so that he could take out the bastard who hurt his Kagome.
Resting his chin on her head, which barely made it to his shoulders, he looked at Miroku. "Did you send out the Black levels?"
Miroku nodded. "Yeah, and I also informed everyone else who were there. They are going to keep a sharp eye out for this guy, and also they are going to start paying better attention to the other students around us."
Inuyasha nodded and turned his attention to the other male teenager, Jake. Jake was the gang's expert at hand-to-hand combat and martial arts of all kinds. He was the best after Tasuki, while he had still been alive, and Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru. "Jake, did he seem like he was trained well?"
Jake remembered the bruise on Kagome's arm, which was inside Inuyasha's jacket at the moment. "Well, he didn't put up much of a fight, but the mark he left on Kagome there tells me that he's a lot stronger than he looks. He might possibly know some stuff on pressure points too, from the way he was making her cry. Kagome was the one who took him down, so I really don't know how good of a fighter he is."
Looking at Kagome, Jake smiled. "Those were some kick-ass reflexes there. You had him on the ground in about 6 seconds. Not bad. You must be Tasuki's old girl. He's the only human in the gang I know, and everywhere else that I can think of, who could move that fast."
Kagome sniffed and nodded. "Yeah. He trained me so that I could defend myself in case Naraku ever tried something. He wanted to make sure that I was safe at all times. I just never brought myself to using it before." 'Except for when I got away from all of them the first time.'
Inuyasha turned his attention to Kagome now. "Kags, I need to know. Do you want to finish the day at school? I can take you home if you want. We're gonna need to tell your mom the situation anyways, and set up a way for you and your family to be safe."
Kagome twisted herself in his arms so that she was facing him again. She buried her face in his chest. "As much as I want to finish the day off, I'm still scared. I don't know if Houjo or anyone else from the Spiders is still here. I think I'll go home. We can tell my mom everything that has happened. Plus, there was something that I wanted to ask her, concerning all of this. And she doesn't know about you and me being together yet either."
Inuyasha nodded. He got Kagome's backpack from Katie. "You guys go back to class. Tell everyone that there is going to be a meeting at the mansion after school. Spread the word."
As the others nodded, Inuyasha released Kagome from his arms and turned around. Kneeling down, he looked over his shoulder. "Get on, sweetheart. This is a much quicker way to travel."
Kagome looked at him. "But what about my car?"
Sango stepped up. "I'll take it back to the mansion. We can either drop it by your house later tonight or you can have Inuyasha bring you back to pick it up."
Slipping her jacket back on, Kagome nodded and gave Sango the keys. She then walked back over to Inuyasha and climbed up on his back. He hooked his hands around and under her thighs, and Kagome wrapped her arms securely around his neck, making sure that she wouldn't fall off.
As soon as she was secure, Inuyasha leapt off of the ground and into the air. Kagome gasped as they flew through the air. Inuyasha landed on a nearby roof and immediately took off again. Landing again, he paused long enough for Kagome to tell him the general direction of her house and the street address.
They flew together through the city. Inuyasha used buildings and trees as springboards to launch him and Kagome through the air. Kagome shrieked with laughter each time they raised into the air. The movement caused a tickle feeling in her stomach, and it made her laugh. Their hair flew back with the wind, tangling together in a silver and black stream.
People on the streets stopped to stare up at the red and blue blob that streaked across the sky. The flying journey through downtown Tokyo took Kagome's mind off of what had happened earlier. She was too absorbed with the sensation that she was flying and free.
Inuyasha had been hoping that would happen. She needed something to pick her mood up after what had happened. Unfortunately, all fun times had to end at some point, and theirs ended as Inuyasha reached her street.
They landed in front of Kagome's house a few moments later. Kagome climbed off of Inuyasha's back and he took her hand as they walked up to the front door. At the sound of the door opening, Kagome's mother looked out of the kitchen.
"Kagome? Why are you home? Did something happen at school?" She saw Inuyasha holding hands with Kagome. "Kagome, who is this young man?"
"Mom, this is Inuyasha. He is one of the leaders of the Youkai gang. They are the rivals of the Black Spiders. And.he's my new boyfriend."
Kagome's mom frowned. She was both puzzled and shocked by this new information. "But, honey, I thought that the Youkai gang killed Tasuki. That's what you were told, wasn't it?"
Kagome shook her head. Her mom was just as confused as she had been at first. "No, it was really Naraku, the leader of the Spiders. Tasuki was really a member of the Youkai. He was spying on the Spiders for the Youkai when he met me. He was planning on taking me to the Youkai the night that he was killed. Inuyasha, in respecting Tasuki's last wishes, made me a member and is taking care of me. He's protecting me, and you guys too, from Naraku."
She smiled up at Inuyasha and squeezed his hand. "And, I guess you can see that we've turned it into something more than just a protecting relationship." He smiled back down at her.
Her smile faded into a more serious face and she looked at her mom. "This brings me to why I am here, instead of in class. I was attacked at school today by a member of the Black Spiders. Now, I'm afraid that they will come after us here at the house. We're in neutral territory here, which means that either side can come here and not be trespassing. This is why.I need to ask you something mama."
Kagome's mom had been frightened when she heard that her daughter had been attacked. But the thought of the Black Spiders coming after the family in their own home was even more frightening. She tried to stay calm and not faint. "Sure thing, honey. What is it?"
Kagome took a deep breath before continuing. This was hard on her. "I wanted to know if I could live with Inuyasha at the Youkai mansion. I'll be safer there." She paused before continuing. "Also, I wanted to know if you could take Souta and go back to Aunt Gemma's for a while. Just until this whole thing is over. I don't want anything happening to you or Souta."
Kagome's mother stayed silent. She seemed to be thinking about it. Finally, she spoke again. "As much as I don't want to say yes, I feel as though I have no choice. If it means that our family will be protected, then I give you my permission to move in with Inuyasha. I will tell Souta when he gets home from school, and I shall call your aunt. If that doesn't work out, then we will go and move in with your grandfather at the family shrine."
Kagome's mom walked over and gave her daughter a hug. "I just want you to be safe and happy, my love."
Kagome hugged her mother back. "Being with Inuyasha makes me feel safe and happy. I love him mom. I didn't think that I would love anyone after Tasuki, but when I met Inuyasha, I fell for him the instant I saw him."
Kagome's mom walked over to Inuyasha next. "Young man, please take care of my daughter. She has been through so much pain. I don't want to see her hurt anymore."
Inuyasha nodded. "Ma'am, I promise that I will protect her life with my own. I love her, and I would die for her."
Kagome's mother nodded, and then pulled him into a hug. Inuyasha was surprised. Her mom whispered into his ear, "She truly loves you. She loved Tasuki, but never this much. You are her true soul mate. I'm a mother, I can tell. Take care of her for me."
Inuyasha just nodded, digesting what had been said. Kagome reached for his hand. "Come on, Inu-chan. We need to get my stuff." He allowed himself to be led up the stairs to her room.
In her room, Kagome proceeded to pack her life back into her bags. Stuffed animals, clothes, books, posters, pictures, jewelry, and other things all wound up in 4 suitcases, two large boxes, and 2 backpacks, one of which seemed to magically expand to about 5 times its normal size. Looking at it all, Kagome realized that she should have brought her car.
Inuyasha told her that they didn't need it. He whipped out his cell phone and punched in a number. He spoke with someone on the other end and gave them her address. Ending the call, he saw Kagome staring at her empty room. Walking over to her, he pulled her close to him.
"Love, it's for the best. I know you don't want to do this, but it's the only way I know of to keep you and your family safe. And, if you hadn't asked your mom, I was going to ask her for you. I want to keep you safe, and at the mansion, you will be safe with me. And I'll make sure that your family is kept safe as well."
Kagome only nodded. She knew that he was right. They stayed together, waiting until they heard a car honking its horn from outside the house. Inuyasha nuzzled her head. "That's our ride."
Grabbing two of her suitcases, he went downstairs. Kagome followed with the smaller of the two backpacks, dragging it behind her. Her mother followed them outside, carrying one of her boxes, to where Nobunaga and Midoriko were waiting next to a black Escalade.
They loaded all of her belongings into the back of the car, Inuyasha having to go back upstairs and get the rest of her bags, the box, and the larger backpack. Kagome gave her mother one last hug and kiss, and promised to call that night, to see what the plans were.
Kagome allowed Inuyasha to gently pull her into the car. She stayed silent the entire drive to the mansion, but Inuyasha smelled the salt of her tears as she looked out the window. It mixed with her natural scent. He reached around her and pulled her close, letting her head rest on his shoulder. He knew that leaving her family hurt, but it was for the best. He would make it up to her somehow.
Midoriko and Nobunaga looked at each other up in the front of the car. They had heard what had happened. The Black Spiders had attacked Inuyasha's girl. And they both knew what that meant. It was total war now.
~*~*~ Sorry for not updating like I said I would. Finals week has snuck up on me, and while I only have 2, they are much important. Anyways, you can expect a greater consistency of updating from me once I'm back home.
Ok, people who I really want to thank for reviewing!! Maritropa
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And a really big thank you to
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and is also the first one to talk to me online! This chapter's for you!