We finally got another computer! Yay! Oh it's been so long! I truly
apologize for the inconvenience everyone! My computer just died...and I lost
everything. I just felt like everything was just torn from me, oh man did
I feel so depressed, but then my mom was like, oh yeah! Since we cant fix
it...lets get another one! So yay! We got another! So I will try to be
updating regularly now. Ok on with it eh? ::showers her readers with
Inuyasha gifts::
Disclaimer: Don't own Inuyasha and Co. Thank you Rumiko Takahashi though!
Chapter 10: the ball begins
Kagome stood out on her miniature balcony that showed her the magnificence of her backyard. It was quiet and the sun was beginning to set, the sky showing her the beautiful colours it could come up with. She sighed happily at the serene scene before her. She was already dressed and ready for Sango's ball. She held her mask in one delicately-gloved hand. It was a half mask; designed to that of a cat. But this was no cheap mask found at some crummy corner store in the poorer part of town, goodness no, this mask was expensive. It was made of porcelain and kept the snowy white colour so that it would match Kagome's similar coloured skin. It had small black whiskers painted across the light-pink nose and the slanted eyes were outlined in the similar black colour.
She held the mask with a glass handle and put it up to her face, a small smirk on her light-pink painted lips and gave out a small purr. Turning and walking back into her room she set the mask on her bed and moved to close the doors when she heard a small rustling sound. This gave her a start and she quickly backed away from the balcony. She turned and started to make a dash toward her closed bedroom door when she heard a familiar voice.
"Kagome!" The voice whispered loudly. "Kagome, it is I that calls upon you!"
Kagome turned slowly, a hand over her chest and a slightly confused look on her face. "Inuyasha?" she said quietly.
"It is I, Kagome!"
She rushed to her balcony and held onto the rail and leaned over, looking down. She searched below her and could not see him.
"Inuyasha?"
"I am here Kagome."
"But, I cannot see you. Do not play games with me Inuyasha, I wish to see you." She said.
"I beg your pardon; I do not mean to play games." He said, finally stepping into her view. She wants to see me? He thought.
"There you are." She said with a smile. "Why do you call upon me at such a time Inuyasha? It is but a few hours before Sango's ball. Do tell me that you will be attending and are not here to tell me early of your proceeding absence."
"You need not worry, I have no such news." Inuyasha said with a small bow. "I am here to ask of you a question."
"A question?" Kagome said; her attention increased. "What sort of question would The Great Inuyasha have for one such as I?"
"Would...would you, I mean...dammit." He cursed under his breath. It cannot be this hard to ask her anything, she would grant anyone anything they asked. He thought, looking up at her, his gaze suddenly softening. And that is what makes her quite lovely.
"Inuyasha?"
The sound of his name sent a jolt through is body which sent him back into reality. He sputtered with his words a moment before gazing up at her again.
"Inuyasha, what is it that you ask of me?" Kagome said. She was beginning to become impatient.
"I mean to ask you...if...you would like me to...escort you...to Sango's ball..." He spat out quickly as he could. A sudden blush covered his face like the sudden coming of a fever.
Kagome's face lit up in excitement. "Oh! Inuyasha! I would-
Inuyasha let his body lean forward in anticipation. She was going to accept him!
"KAGOME!"
Kagome's mouth shut closed abruptly and she jumped slightly in fear. Inuyasha fell forward onto his face. She turned toward her door as she heard footsteps and quickly turned to Inuyasha. "Pray, do wait for me Inuyasha, I shall return to you in a moment's time. I do believe that Mother wants to speak with me." She said hurridly before quickly stepping back into her room and shutting the doors to her bedroom. Ayako entered her room just as she had begun to smooth out her dress in front of her mirror.
"Miss Kagome...Miss Higurashi would like to speak with you downstairs. You have a visitor." Ayako said quietly.
Kagome, deeply confused at this stepped past Ayako and went downstairs. As she turned the corner into the living room she found her mother, and what looked like a young man sitting next to her with his back facing her. When her mother saw her enter she rose with a smile on her face. Kagome did not like that smile. Mother was up to something.
"Ah, Kagome. You no longer have to fear of being escorted by Souta to Sango's ball tonight." Mrs. Higurashi said.
"Oh yes Mother, I know, because someone has just-
"I have accepted Hojou Nimura as your escort tonight! Isn't it grand Kagome! I did not have to search far, for he came to me."
Hojou stood and turned, his smile growing brighter once he saw Kagome. He humbly bowed to her and stepped forward, taking her hand and giving it a light kiss.
"I am honored, Miss Higurashi to be able to escort you tonight." He said smoothly though he had a nervous quiver in his voice.
Kagome's heart broke and sank like an injured ship. This would not do at all! "I-but Mother, someone has already asked me!" She said frantically.
"It does not matter, I have had Mr. Nimura in mind for quite some time. He is more capable and more amiable than anyone I am sure you could have come up with on your own Kagome." Her mother said sternly. Mrs. Higurashi gave her daughter a look that said If you argue you will live to regret it.
Kagome closed her mouth. She put on the happiest smile she could muster at the moment and laughed gaily. "Of course Mother, what was I thinking? No Mr. Nimura, it is I that hold the honour of being able to be escorted by you this lovely night. I look forward to our later acquaintance with excitement. But if you and Mother will excuse me, I am not quite ready."
And with that Hojou finally let go of her hand and she turned, walking as quickly but as lady-like as she could back up to her room. She was almost in tears as she slowly closed her bedroom door and sighed. Then she remembered.
Inuyasha! Oh...what will I say to him...he will be so disappointed. Kagome ran to her balcony and threw open the doors. She almost fell over the railing as she came to a halt and leaned over it.
"Inuyasha." She said quietly.
Luckily for him he had spent the time picking grass and dirt from his hair and wiping his face with his handkerchief. How clumsy he had been. But she had returned to him and he was on his feet when he heard her throw open her doors.
"Kagome!" He said with a small smile. "Come with me to Sango's ball!"
His hopeful look made her heart break even more, if that was possible at the moment. It isn't fair! Oh how I despise my mother!
"Inuyasha...I am...to go to Sango's ball with Hojou Nimura. Therefore, I must decline your proposal." She said with a heavy heart.
Inuyasha's face faulted for a moment before he burst into laughter. Kagome blinked a couple of times before looking at him in confusion. Neither could see these expressions for the sun had set and darkness had settled over the town.
"Now is not the time for games Kagome." Inuyasha laughed.
"I do not play games at this moment Inuyasha." Kagome said sadly. "I am to go with Hojou Nimura."
Inuyasha's laughter stopped abruptly. But...but how? How had he gone wrong? "You...are serious then?"
"Yes. But Inuyasha please do not be angry with me." She said quickly, trying to explain herself.
"Not angry with you?" Inuyasha growled. "How dare you lead me on such a way as to get my hopes up and then dash them away like a horse's tail to a fly! And then you ask of me not to be angry?!"
"But Inuyasha I-
"Do not give me excuses Kagome. I understand you now. You are but a flirt." Inuyasha said angrily. "And what does Hojou Nimura have that I do not? Tell me my faults Kagome."
"Inuyasha pray, listen to me!"
"TELL ME MY FAULTS KAGOME! Or are you too much of a flirt to give me them? Want to keep me in your little web is that it? Black widow you are! Does your mother or Sango know of your secret life? Are you a whore Kagome? Tell me this, for if you are I shall never want to associate with you!"
Kagome blinked. He has never said such words to me. She thought. The pain spread about her until she recalled him calling her a whore.
"I was to accept you Inuyasha BEFORE my mother called me to her table! She has put me with Hojou Nimura; I had no choice but to accept him! But now I see that we are quite the match for Hojou would never utter such words in his lady's presence! HE is amiable and the perfect gentleman. Something I do believe one such as you would never be able to accomplish in your lifetime! You could learn something from a man like Hojou Nimura, Inuyasha, I now do not regret having to accept Hojou, for you are nothing but a wretch, and I do not wish to EVER associate with YOU again!" She cried, stepping back into her room and slamming the doors shut.
Inuyasha stood there looking confused and a little hurt. Perhaps he had gone a little too far with his accusations. He hadn't meant them of course. So that he would not be outdone though he gave out a shout of his own.
"Do what you wish WOMAN for I do not care! You may fucking do as you PLEASE!" And with that he cursed under his breath as he left her grounds angrily.
Kagome fumed in her room as she plopped down on her bed. Ayako came into her room and said that her mother was questioning some strange noises that she believed to have heard just a while ago. Voices they were. Kagome told Ayako to assure her mother that she had just been hearing noises and nothing more. She told her to tell her mother that she had forgotten to have the bit of ginger put into her tea and her mind had begun to wander and say things to her again and that she should take it now so she would not be hearing these voices at Sango's ball.
Ayako gave a courteous bow before stepping out of Kagome's room, leaving her angry at the entire world.
*~*~
"But Father, I do not understand why I must!"
"Kohaku, I have explained this to you many a time. It is but common courtesy that you do not let any woman sit alone and not have a dancing partner unless she wishes." His father said.
"But Fa-ther!" Kohaku whined.
"Do not disappoint me Kohaku," Mr. Takashi said. "It is but your sister's first ball, and we would like it to go well."
"Yes, please do not ruin this for me Kohaku." Sango said as she walked down the split stairs. She turned and looked at them as she reached the middle pillar. It is strange because all of our bedrooms are on the left side of the house, yet we have two sets of stairs leading to our dining hall for only one useful side of the house.
A grand portrait of Sango, her father, Kohaku, and even their mother sat as a gigantic center piece for the stairs. Sango's eyes softened at the sight of her mother. Mother. Oh how I wish that you would be here to join me. How I miss you and love you dearly still Mother.
Mr. Takashi walked over to Sango and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. "How you have grown Sango. There could be no father in the entire world more proud than I."
Sango blushed. "Dearest Father, what do you have in mind tonight as trickery for me? You never compliment me unless there is something under your sleeve."
Sango's father looked astonished. "Why me? Pray my daughter; give my listless heart rest, for I do not even give thought to the idea of shaming my daughter's face at her first ball! Now for the next to come I may not have control over myself!" He laughed.
"Father!" Sango cried.
"Kohaku! I do believe your dearest sister does not want us to be tricksters tonight! Be on your best behavior!" Mr. Takashi shouted gaily at his son.
"Yes Father!" Kohaku cried. "I will be the epitome of an angel for you sister. And I shall have my dear friend Souta be the same."
"Thank you Father, Kohaku." Sango said gratefully. Although she could not decipher the creepy smiles that they gave each other and her also.
"I will go and see how the attendants are doing with the preparations." Mr.Takashi said taking his leave.
Sango's innards were in a jumble. Oh dear I do hope that I am not to be sick! Pray my body let me be well at least for a good while tonight. Do not let my first ball end too early.
Her heart was racing and her stomach was doing jumps. She placed her hand on her stomach and decided to go outside to get some fresh air and clear her head.
The cool breeze felt good on her heated skin and her mind instantly cleared. "Much better." She said sighing quietly to herself.
Sango looked up at the sky and at all of the sparkling stars in the sky. Tonight, things will be different.
*~*
Back at the Higurashi home.
"Souta! Are you ready? Kagome! We are leaving!" Mrs. Higurashi cried. She was to be escorted tonight by Souta. Hojou stood nervously next to Mrs. Higurashi.
"Thank you again for accepting my offer to escort Miss Higurashi to Miss Tanaka's ball tonight, Mrs. Higurashi." Hojou said, slightly confusing himself as to which "Higurashi" he was supposed to be mentioning. He was wringing the brim of his hat tightly in anxiety.
"It was but my pleasure Mr. Nimura, KAGOME!"
"I am here Mother." Kagome said as she was descending the stairs.
"Oh, you have changed. Very well." Mrs. Higurashi said approvingly.
"You look absolutely stunning Miss Higurashi." Hojou said, looking into Kagome's eyes.
"Thank you." Both Kagome and her mother said in unison. Kagome blushed while Mrs. Higurashi pretended it never happened. Hojou looked confused and Souta looked bored.
"Shall we be off then?" Souta finally said, breaking the strange silence and offering his arm to his mother.
"Such a grand gentleman, Souta." Mrs. Higurashi said proudly taking his arm. She eyed the little black ribbon that tied his low ponytail together happily. Her son would be a beautiful gentleman someday and all of the thanks would go to his wonderful, loving, caring, extravagant, (and still young looking) mother.
Kagome slowly took Hojou's arm as they left the Higurashi estate. They walked outside and he helped her into the carriage. The horses took off at a blinding speed. Kagome did not participate much in the conversation much between Hojou and her mother. She could tell her mother was only trying to get Hojou to look more amiable, and worthy of her attention by having him point out all of his good points and making a big fuss over them like they were so extravagant. Kagome pretended not to hear all of her mother's oo- ing and ahh-ing.
They were soon at the Takashi estate and Souta and Hojou were the first to get out of the carriage. First Mrs. Higurashi got and Hojou offered his hand to Kagome. At this sight Kagome couldn't help but feeling a pang of guilt. I do not see Hojou's hand being offered to me. I see nothing but Inuyasha's hand.
"Inuyasha..." Kagome whispered.
"Miss Higurashi?" Hojou said, a little worried. "Do you need a little more help?"
Remember what that boy said to you earlier, Kagome. Do not let your guard down because he could not handle his own emotions.
"No, I am fine." Kagome said. She shook her head and stuck her nose up proudly in the air and took his hand, lifting her skirts and stepping from the carriage. Inuyasha will not get the best of ME tonight.
Sango, Kohaku, her father, and many of the maids stood outside to greet their guests. As soon as Kagome and Sango met eyes Sango's eyes darted to who was at Kagome's side and then she frowned. She looked quickly back at Kagome and smiled.
Kagome returned the smile but put a thought in the back of her mind to ask Sango what the sudden change in her expression was for. In the mean time she meant to enjoy herself, and enjoy herself fully. Inuyasha did not cross her mind at all as she tightened her hold on Hojou's arm happily and placed her porcelain mask over her face.
Mr. Nimura's mask resembled that much like a chicken although he corrected everyone that asked of it so, claiming that it was a rooster.
"I do not understand how people are to make the mistake, Miss Higurashi." Hojou said to her as they danced the first number together.
"It is an honest mistake Mr. Nimura." Kagome said. "Even I thought it to be a chicken at first, but I soon discovered its...majestic...rooster-like qualities." Kagome winced inwardly as she tried to think of something else nice to say about Hojou's hideous mask. It too was made of fine porcelain, but the distinguishing nose/beak of the mask made Hojou's face look like he carried an excessive nose which distorted his entire face.
Hojou's pride shown like a lighthouse beacon as Kagome's words of praise entered the space between his ears. Kagome looked about the crowd of people and the various masks about the establishment. Soon it would be time to mingle but for the time being the first musical number would begin soon and that meant that she was to dance with her date.
The first number began, it being a waltz of a peculiar tempo and it found Kagome having a joy of a time. She surprised herself at finding how much fun she would be having with Hojou even though the disappointment of having to decline Inuyasha's heartfelt invitation. At least the thought it would be heartfelt. That man has no idea what sensitivity is! Whatever he felt for that Kikyou woman must have been either folly, trickery, or a fluke! The sudden onslaught of Inuyasha thoughts invading her mind only made Kagome angry and began to ruin her good mood. She found herself clenching her gloved fingers deeply into the shoulder of Hojou, who barely seemed to notice in his shiny-eyed stupor.
The dancing couple was lost in the crowd of other dancing couples, the mood of the setting being that of a comfortable calm. Women conversed gaily and men conversed somewhat the same. No one noticed the entrance of a certain white-haired family that consisted only of one small raven-haired member. No one noticed as the younger of the two eldest members immediately broke away from the others and went about the crowd searching the faces in futile remembering that the ball was masquerade.
Shit. Inuyasha cursed to himself. He would have to rely on his sense of smell. If that didn't work he'd have to rely on instinct. Where are you Kagome? He continued his search, almost rudely pushing between dancing couples before gaining his composure (the thought occurred to him that he could easily embarrass his brother...which would lead to certain death) and politely passing through them and not breaking their embrace. The sudden thought hit him too late that he had automatically started looking for the one person he didn't want to see at the moment when it seemed as though all other couples spread apart and the main attraction came into view.
There she was dancing with that Hojou bastard. What the fuck?!
The sudden feeling of someone watching her brought Kagome's attention from where she had been looking and she brought her head up at the exact same time as Hojou slowly turned them as they danced.
He just had to make a small scene by pushing through people. He had to just stand there with his mouth agape in shock and his stance open in shock also. She had to be looking so comfortable dancing there with Hojou. She had to look so stunning to him, even though he wasn't going to admit it to her ever. She had to look up at the exact moment that he cleared all of the couples into the small open area where they danced. She had to look into his eyes and recognize the hurt that was in them. She had to call out his name.
"Inuyasha?"
*~~
Did the end of the chapter seem rushed to you guys? Well it did to me...I was hitting crunch time because I was feeling mighty bad at the fact that I haven't updated in so long and it has taken me forever to type this chapter up! But I got it done and I'm going to be dead in school tomorrow but at least I have a flicker of hope that I will make you all happy!
Thank you to everyone who has reviewed and I will try my damnedest next chapter to not only have my response to reviews back up, but to update in lickety-split!
Until next time! You know what to do ^.^
Disclaimer: Don't own Inuyasha and Co. Thank you Rumiko Takahashi though!
Chapter 10: the ball begins
Kagome stood out on her miniature balcony that showed her the magnificence of her backyard. It was quiet and the sun was beginning to set, the sky showing her the beautiful colours it could come up with. She sighed happily at the serene scene before her. She was already dressed and ready for Sango's ball. She held her mask in one delicately-gloved hand. It was a half mask; designed to that of a cat. But this was no cheap mask found at some crummy corner store in the poorer part of town, goodness no, this mask was expensive. It was made of porcelain and kept the snowy white colour so that it would match Kagome's similar coloured skin. It had small black whiskers painted across the light-pink nose and the slanted eyes were outlined in the similar black colour.
She held the mask with a glass handle and put it up to her face, a small smirk on her light-pink painted lips and gave out a small purr. Turning and walking back into her room she set the mask on her bed and moved to close the doors when she heard a small rustling sound. This gave her a start and she quickly backed away from the balcony. She turned and started to make a dash toward her closed bedroom door when she heard a familiar voice.
"Kagome!" The voice whispered loudly. "Kagome, it is I that calls upon you!"
Kagome turned slowly, a hand over her chest and a slightly confused look on her face. "Inuyasha?" she said quietly.
"It is I, Kagome!"
She rushed to her balcony and held onto the rail and leaned over, looking down. She searched below her and could not see him.
"Inuyasha?"
"I am here Kagome."
"But, I cannot see you. Do not play games with me Inuyasha, I wish to see you." She said.
"I beg your pardon; I do not mean to play games." He said, finally stepping into her view. She wants to see me? He thought.
"There you are." She said with a smile. "Why do you call upon me at such a time Inuyasha? It is but a few hours before Sango's ball. Do tell me that you will be attending and are not here to tell me early of your proceeding absence."
"You need not worry, I have no such news." Inuyasha said with a small bow. "I am here to ask of you a question."
"A question?" Kagome said; her attention increased. "What sort of question would The Great Inuyasha have for one such as I?"
"Would...would you, I mean...dammit." He cursed under his breath. It cannot be this hard to ask her anything, she would grant anyone anything they asked. He thought, looking up at her, his gaze suddenly softening. And that is what makes her quite lovely.
"Inuyasha?"
The sound of his name sent a jolt through is body which sent him back into reality. He sputtered with his words a moment before gazing up at her again.
"Inuyasha, what is it that you ask of me?" Kagome said. She was beginning to become impatient.
"I mean to ask you...if...you would like me to...escort you...to Sango's ball..." He spat out quickly as he could. A sudden blush covered his face like the sudden coming of a fever.
Kagome's face lit up in excitement. "Oh! Inuyasha! I would-
Inuyasha let his body lean forward in anticipation. She was going to accept him!
"KAGOME!"
Kagome's mouth shut closed abruptly and she jumped slightly in fear. Inuyasha fell forward onto his face. She turned toward her door as she heard footsteps and quickly turned to Inuyasha. "Pray, do wait for me Inuyasha, I shall return to you in a moment's time. I do believe that Mother wants to speak with me." She said hurridly before quickly stepping back into her room and shutting the doors to her bedroom. Ayako entered her room just as she had begun to smooth out her dress in front of her mirror.
"Miss Kagome...Miss Higurashi would like to speak with you downstairs. You have a visitor." Ayako said quietly.
Kagome, deeply confused at this stepped past Ayako and went downstairs. As she turned the corner into the living room she found her mother, and what looked like a young man sitting next to her with his back facing her. When her mother saw her enter she rose with a smile on her face. Kagome did not like that smile. Mother was up to something.
"Ah, Kagome. You no longer have to fear of being escorted by Souta to Sango's ball tonight." Mrs. Higurashi said.
"Oh yes Mother, I know, because someone has just-
"I have accepted Hojou Nimura as your escort tonight! Isn't it grand Kagome! I did not have to search far, for he came to me."
Hojou stood and turned, his smile growing brighter once he saw Kagome. He humbly bowed to her and stepped forward, taking her hand and giving it a light kiss.
"I am honored, Miss Higurashi to be able to escort you tonight." He said smoothly though he had a nervous quiver in his voice.
Kagome's heart broke and sank like an injured ship. This would not do at all! "I-but Mother, someone has already asked me!" She said frantically.
"It does not matter, I have had Mr. Nimura in mind for quite some time. He is more capable and more amiable than anyone I am sure you could have come up with on your own Kagome." Her mother said sternly. Mrs. Higurashi gave her daughter a look that said If you argue you will live to regret it.
Kagome closed her mouth. She put on the happiest smile she could muster at the moment and laughed gaily. "Of course Mother, what was I thinking? No Mr. Nimura, it is I that hold the honour of being able to be escorted by you this lovely night. I look forward to our later acquaintance with excitement. But if you and Mother will excuse me, I am not quite ready."
And with that Hojou finally let go of her hand and she turned, walking as quickly but as lady-like as she could back up to her room. She was almost in tears as she slowly closed her bedroom door and sighed. Then she remembered.
Inuyasha! Oh...what will I say to him...he will be so disappointed. Kagome ran to her balcony and threw open the doors. She almost fell over the railing as she came to a halt and leaned over it.
"Inuyasha." She said quietly.
Luckily for him he had spent the time picking grass and dirt from his hair and wiping his face with his handkerchief. How clumsy he had been. But she had returned to him and he was on his feet when he heard her throw open her doors.
"Kagome!" He said with a small smile. "Come with me to Sango's ball!"
His hopeful look made her heart break even more, if that was possible at the moment. It isn't fair! Oh how I despise my mother!
"Inuyasha...I am...to go to Sango's ball with Hojou Nimura. Therefore, I must decline your proposal." She said with a heavy heart.
Inuyasha's face faulted for a moment before he burst into laughter. Kagome blinked a couple of times before looking at him in confusion. Neither could see these expressions for the sun had set and darkness had settled over the town.
"Now is not the time for games Kagome." Inuyasha laughed.
"I do not play games at this moment Inuyasha." Kagome said sadly. "I am to go with Hojou Nimura."
Inuyasha's laughter stopped abruptly. But...but how? How had he gone wrong? "You...are serious then?"
"Yes. But Inuyasha please do not be angry with me." She said quickly, trying to explain herself.
"Not angry with you?" Inuyasha growled. "How dare you lead me on such a way as to get my hopes up and then dash them away like a horse's tail to a fly! And then you ask of me not to be angry?!"
"But Inuyasha I-
"Do not give me excuses Kagome. I understand you now. You are but a flirt." Inuyasha said angrily. "And what does Hojou Nimura have that I do not? Tell me my faults Kagome."
"Inuyasha pray, listen to me!"
"TELL ME MY FAULTS KAGOME! Or are you too much of a flirt to give me them? Want to keep me in your little web is that it? Black widow you are! Does your mother or Sango know of your secret life? Are you a whore Kagome? Tell me this, for if you are I shall never want to associate with you!"
Kagome blinked. He has never said such words to me. She thought. The pain spread about her until she recalled him calling her a whore.
"I was to accept you Inuyasha BEFORE my mother called me to her table! She has put me with Hojou Nimura; I had no choice but to accept him! But now I see that we are quite the match for Hojou would never utter such words in his lady's presence! HE is amiable and the perfect gentleman. Something I do believe one such as you would never be able to accomplish in your lifetime! You could learn something from a man like Hojou Nimura, Inuyasha, I now do not regret having to accept Hojou, for you are nothing but a wretch, and I do not wish to EVER associate with YOU again!" She cried, stepping back into her room and slamming the doors shut.
Inuyasha stood there looking confused and a little hurt. Perhaps he had gone a little too far with his accusations. He hadn't meant them of course. So that he would not be outdone though he gave out a shout of his own.
"Do what you wish WOMAN for I do not care! You may fucking do as you PLEASE!" And with that he cursed under his breath as he left her grounds angrily.
Kagome fumed in her room as she plopped down on her bed. Ayako came into her room and said that her mother was questioning some strange noises that she believed to have heard just a while ago. Voices they were. Kagome told Ayako to assure her mother that she had just been hearing noises and nothing more. She told her to tell her mother that she had forgotten to have the bit of ginger put into her tea and her mind had begun to wander and say things to her again and that she should take it now so she would not be hearing these voices at Sango's ball.
Ayako gave a courteous bow before stepping out of Kagome's room, leaving her angry at the entire world.
*~*~
"But Father, I do not understand why I must!"
"Kohaku, I have explained this to you many a time. It is but common courtesy that you do not let any woman sit alone and not have a dancing partner unless she wishes." His father said.
"But Fa-ther!" Kohaku whined.
"Do not disappoint me Kohaku," Mr. Takashi said. "It is but your sister's first ball, and we would like it to go well."
"Yes, please do not ruin this for me Kohaku." Sango said as she walked down the split stairs. She turned and looked at them as she reached the middle pillar. It is strange because all of our bedrooms are on the left side of the house, yet we have two sets of stairs leading to our dining hall for only one useful side of the house.
A grand portrait of Sango, her father, Kohaku, and even their mother sat as a gigantic center piece for the stairs. Sango's eyes softened at the sight of her mother. Mother. Oh how I wish that you would be here to join me. How I miss you and love you dearly still Mother.
Mr. Takashi walked over to Sango and planted a soft kiss on her forehead. "How you have grown Sango. There could be no father in the entire world more proud than I."
Sango blushed. "Dearest Father, what do you have in mind tonight as trickery for me? You never compliment me unless there is something under your sleeve."
Sango's father looked astonished. "Why me? Pray my daughter; give my listless heart rest, for I do not even give thought to the idea of shaming my daughter's face at her first ball! Now for the next to come I may not have control over myself!" He laughed.
"Father!" Sango cried.
"Kohaku! I do believe your dearest sister does not want us to be tricksters tonight! Be on your best behavior!" Mr. Takashi shouted gaily at his son.
"Yes Father!" Kohaku cried. "I will be the epitome of an angel for you sister. And I shall have my dear friend Souta be the same."
"Thank you Father, Kohaku." Sango said gratefully. Although she could not decipher the creepy smiles that they gave each other and her also.
"I will go and see how the attendants are doing with the preparations." Mr.Takashi said taking his leave.
Sango's innards were in a jumble. Oh dear I do hope that I am not to be sick! Pray my body let me be well at least for a good while tonight. Do not let my first ball end too early.
Her heart was racing and her stomach was doing jumps. She placed her hand on her stomach and decided to go outside to get some fresh air and clear her head.
The cool breeze felt good on her heated skin and her mind instantly cleared. "Much better." She said sighing quietly to herself.
Sango looked up at the sky and at all of the sparkling stars in the sky. Tonight, things will be different.
*~*
Back at the Higurashi home.
"Souta! Are you ready? Kagome! We are leaving!" Mrs. Higurashi cried. She was to be escorted tonight by Souta. Hojou stood nervously next to Mrs. Higurashi.
"Thank you again for accepting my offer to escort Miss Higurashi to Miss Tanaka's ball tonight, Mrs. Higurashi." Hojou said, slightly confusing himself as to which "Higurashi" he was supposed to be mentioning. He was wringing the brim of his hat tightly in anxiety.
"It was but my pleasure Mr. Nimura, KAGOME!"
"I am here Mother." Kagome said as she was descending the stairs.
"Oh, you have changed. Very well." Mrs. Higurashi said approvingly.
"You look absolutely stunning Miss Higurashi." Hojou said, looking into Kagome's eyes.
"Thank you." Both Kagome and her mother said in unison. Kagome blushed while Mrs. Higurashi pretended it never happened. Hojou looked confused and Souta looked bored.
"Shall we be off then?" Souta finally said, breaking the strange silence and offering his arm to his mother.
"Such a grand gentleman, Souta." Mrs. Higurashi said proudly taking his arm. She eyed the little black ribbon that tied his low ponytail together happily. Her son would be a beautiful gentleman someday and all of the thanks would go to his wonderful, loving, caring, extravagant, (and still young looking) mother.
Kagome slowly took Hojou's arm as they left the Higurashi estate. They walked outside and he helped her into the carriage. The horses took off at a blinding speed. Kagome did not participate much in the conversation much between Hojou and her mother. She could tell her mother was only trying to get Hojou to look more amiable, and worthy of her attention by having him point out all of his good points and making a big fuss over them like they were so extravagant. Kagome pretended not to hear all of her mother's oo- ing and ahh-ing.
They were soon at the Takashi estate and Souta and Hojou were the first to get out of the carriage. First Mrs. Higurashi got and Hojou offered his hand to Kagome. At this sight Kagome couldn't help but feeling a pang of guilt. I do not see Hojou's hand being offered to me. I see nothing but Inuyasha's hand.
"Inuyasha..." Kagome whispered.
"Miss Higurashi?" Hojou said, a little worried. "Do you need a little more help?"
Remember what that boy said to you earlier, Kagome. Do not let your guard down because he could not handle his own emotions.
"No, I am fine." Kagome said. She shook her head and stuck her nose up proudly in the air and took his hand, lifting her skirts and stepping from the carriage. Inuyasha will not get the best of ME tonight.
Sango, Kohaku, her father, and many of the maids stood outside to greet their guests. As soon as Kagome and Sango met eyes Sango's eyes darted to who was at Kagome's side and then she frowned. She looked quickly back at Kagome and smiled.
Kagome returned the smile but put a thought in the back of her mind to ask Sango what the sudden change in her expression was for. In the mean time she meant to enjoy herself, and enjoy herself fully. Inuyasha did not cross her mind at all as she tightened her hold on Hojou's arm happily and placed her porcelain mask over her face.
Mr. Nimura's mask resembled that much like a chicken although he corrected everyone that asked of it so, claiming that it was a rooster.
"I do not understand how people are to make the mistake, Miss Higurashi." Hojou said to her as they danced the first number together.
"It is an honest mistake Mr. Nimura." Kagome said. "Even I thought it to be a chicken at first, but I soon discovered its...majestic...rooster-like qualities." Kagome winced inwardly as she tried to think of something else nice to say about Hojou's hideous mask. It too was made of fine porcelain, but the distinguishing nose/beak of the mask made Hojou's face look like he carried an excessive nose which distorted his entire face.
Hojou's pride shown like a lighthouse beacon as Kagome's words of praise entered the space between his ears. Kagome looked about the crowd of people and the various masks about the establishment. Soon it would be time to mingle but for the time being the first musical number would begin soon and that meant that she was to dance with her date.
The first number began, it being a waltz of a peculiar tempo and it found Kagome having a joy of a time. She surprised herself at finding how much fun she would be having with Hojou even though the disappointment of having to decline Inuyasha's heartfelt invitation. At least the thought it would be heartfelt. That man has no idea what sensitivity is! Whatever he felt for that Kikyou woman must have been either folly, trickery, or a fluke! The sudden onslaught of Inuyasha thoughts invading her mind only made Kagome angry and began to ruin her good mood. She found herself clenching her gloved fingers deeply into the shoulder of Hojou, who barely seemed to notice in his shiny-eyed stupor.
The dancing couple was lost in the crowd of other dancing couples, the mood of the setting being that of a comfortable calm. Women conversed gaily and men conversed somewhat the same. No one noticed the entrance of a certain white-haired family that consisted only of one small raven-haired member. No one noticed as the younger of the two eldest members immediately broke away from the others and went about the crowd searching the faces in futile remembering that the ball was masquerade.
Shit. Inuyasha cursed to himself. He would have to rely on his sense of smell. If that didn't work he'd have to rely on instinct. Where are you Kagome? He continued his search, almost rudely pushing between dancing couples before gaining his composure (the thought occurred to him that he could easily embarrass his brother...which would lead to certain death) and politely passing through them and not breaking their embrace. The sudden thought hit him too late that he had automatically started looking for the one person he didn't want to see at the moment when it seemed as though all other couples spread apart and the main attraction came into view.
There she was dancing with that Hojou bastard. What the fuck?!
The sudden feeling of someone watching her brought Kagome's attention from where she had been looking and she brought her head up at the exact same time as Hojou slowly turned them as they danced.
He just had to make a small scene by pushing through people. He had to just stand there with his mouth agape in shock and his stance open in shock also. She had to be looking so comfortable dancing there with Hojou. She had to look so stunning to him, even though he wasn't going to admit it to her ever. She had to look up at the exact moment that he cleared all of the couples into the small open area where they danced. She had to look into his eyes and recognize the hurt that was in them. She had to call out his name.
"Inuyasha?"
*~~
Did the end of the chapter seem rushed to you guys? Well it did to me...I was hitting crunch time because I was feeling mighty bad at the fact that I haven't updated in so long and it has taken me forever to type this chapter up! But I got it done and I'm going to be dead in school tomorrow but at least I have a flicker of hope that I will make you all happy!
Thank you to everyone who has reviewed and I will try my damnedest next chapter to not only have my response to reviews back up, but to update in lickety-split!
Until next time! You know what to do ^.^