Disclaimer: I own nothing
A/N: Here it is! Hey everyone, just for you information this use to be called Tears, but now has been re-named to Fighting Back. Tell me which you like better.
Title: Fighting Back
Chapter 1: The Past
~Information~
As a little girl Kagome Higurashi knew no boundaries. She was a girl who had no fear. Life was limitless and nothing was impossible. But everything changed the day of her 7th birthday.
Kagome had been born on a stormy April night. She had been held once by her mother before death claimed the young woman with big blue eyes. The very same big blue eyes that Kagome herself possessed. In truth Kagome had all of her mother's features. She held no likeness to her father whatsoever. Even when she was but a baby it had been obvious.
Her father was a tall and lean man that could never not be intimidating. His piercing green eyes and black hair that reached his shoulders, was said to be extremely handsome. But very few of them knew of the dangerous man that lied beneath. Those who knew him well saw the malice within, and all were frightened.
Her mother was a petite woman who seemed to light up the room wherever she went. When her smile reached her eyes, she was said to outshine the Sun itself. She was caring and kind to say the least. There was never a person she wasn't willing to help. Being so naive at times would sometimes get her into trouble. She was often told that she put too much faith in people. She had long wavy black hair that gave a gorgeous contrast to her pale creamy skin. But her greatest beauty had been her eyes. Her deep blue eyes had been known to always show her every emotion. But alas, she could never find the strength within herself to stand up for what she believed in. She was meek and timid, unable to say no.
Kagome's mothers and fathers wedding had been arranged. Onigumo had built his own company by the time he was 27, and Korrin's father wished to merge their two companies into one. Korrin's parents felt that the marriage would consummate the combining of their companies, and secretly they had wanted someone who would be able to take care of Korrin as she got older. Kagome's father, Onigumo, didn't have the slightest problem with the agreement. He had immediately fallen in love with her mother's beauty and charm, but the feeling was not mutual.
Korrin felt that he was a devious man and that could not be trusted, but she could not bring herself to deny her parent's wishes. They had not been able to see past his false extererior for the man he really was. For once in her life she had been able to see what no one else could.
Onigumo knew his young bride cared nothing for him, even resented him. In fact, he was impressed that she could tell what kind of man he really was, yet she was still unable to talk back to him or anyone else. She seemed so weak and helpless. He was the one who would have always protected her. He had truly loved her.
Soon after there marriage, Korrin was expecting. 9 months later Kagome was born, and Korrin died giving birth to her. She was not strong enough to give life to another being.
When Onigumo saw his daughter for the first time he was shocked to say the least. In his arms he held a child that looked almost exactly like her mother. Of course there had been some differences, considering that Kagome had just been born. But he had no doubt that the baby with fuzz on top of her head and chubby little cheeks would grow into a beautiful young woman, like her mother.
But there was something different about this girl. The little girl possessed something her mother hadn't. She carried a look of determination in her breathtaking blue eyes that said she could handle anything the world threw at her. Her mother wasn't nearly as strong as the baby he held.
'It's not fair' he thought 'why should this child live when Korrin had to die!' He clutched the child more fiercely when felt waves of emotion crash down upon him, bitterness, despair, anger. It seemed like his whole world was crumbling around him. He knew then he could not sit and watch this child live the life his wife couldn't. Onigumo had to leave.
And after the funeral that is exactly what he did. He hired the first nanny that applied to care for Kagome, and left without a second thought, not knowing when he would be back. Fortunately for Kagome, an old woman with a heart of gold became her caretaker. The elderly woman instantly felt sympathy for Kagome, knowing that her mother died giving birth to her, and her father had practically abandoned her. Kaede knew that Kagome's life would be filled with hardships and at that moment she promised herself that she would do all that she could to prepare the unsuspecting girl for what lied ahead.
As Kagome grew, Kaede soon found out that Kagome was no 'submissive little girl'. She and Kagome could argue on end, sometimes for hours at a time. One day they had been so angry at each other that they glared at one another while literally shaking with rage. Not being able to take it anymore, Kaede threw her arms in the air and cried,"Arg! You should be in debate" and stalked out, sufficiently ending the argument. Kagome's glare soon became a look of confusion and she just stared at Kaede's retreating form for a few seconds before scrambling after her while shouting, "Hey Kaede, what's 'debate'?" But everything changed on Kagome's 7th birthday.
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~ Kagome's House ~ April, 9 ~ 6:00am ~
"Kaede," the, now 7 year old, Kagome whispered. "Kaede!" she whispered louder. The old woman lying on the four-poster bed was still unresponsive, even as a small index finger started to poke her cheek repeatedly. Kagome scrunched up her face, trying to think of a way to wake her sleeping nanny. Suddenly, an evil grin made its way through her face. 'Let's see if you wake up now! Hee hee.' "Kaede!!!!" Kagome screamed, jumping up and down beside her, and waving her hands frantically in the air.
"Ahhhhhhh!" Keade bolted upright, and the unexpected movement caused Kagome to fall into a sitting position on top of bed. Kagome giggled as the bouncy bed came to a halt. "What are ye tryin to do? Give me a heart-attack?" Kaede cried clutching her chest and breathing heavily.
"Kaede! You're up!" Kagome exclaimed. "No silly! Guess what day it is." Kagome eagerly knelt next to the gray-haired woman, waiting in anticipation for her answer. Kaede just smiled at the adorable face looking intently up at her.
"Tis your birthday today, isn't it?" As soon as the words left her mouth, Kagome's arms shot to the sky in triumph, causing her to lose her balance, and fall upon the floor. Kagome's nose wrinkled in discomfort as she rubbed her sore bottom. She climbed atop of the bed once again while Kaede chuckled at her.
"What time is it?" she asked looking at the digital clock on her nightstand. It shone in bright red letters 6:05. Kaede looked at the girl questioningly. 'What happened to the girl I usually have to pry out of bed in the morning?' "Well, since we are already awake we may as well get up." She sighed. "What do you want for breakfast?" Kaede asked moving to get up.
"Breakfast!" Kagome shouted and ran out the door like a shot. Shaking her head, Kaede slowly followed the energetic girl. 'I'm getting to old for this' she thought, smiling despite herself.
*After Breakfast*
"Kaede!" Kagome called from the back porch. To most it was dismal, but to Kagome it was charming, even with its gray peeling paint, and cool draft. "I'm going to go for a walk in the woods, okay?"
"Alright." Kaede shouted back, washing the dishes in the kitchen sink. "Just be safe, and remember to take your jacket. Oh, and don't stay out to long, it's suppose to rain. Take an umbrella just in case. And don't forget to."
"I'll be fine!" Kagome rolled her eyes at Kaede's worrywart ways, while skipping her way out the door. Kagome's home, more like mansion, was old and decaying, but gave a cozy feeling to all its occupants. It was secluded from all other houses, so Kagome had not found any friends that lived nearby. But she found comfort in the old woods that surrounded her house.
The trees stood sturdy and tall; while greenery spread itself upon the forest floor the sun shone bright, casting rays through the trees. Rocks could be found scattered here and there, and the gentle rustling of leaves could be heard as the wind coasted by. Every now and then, a fallen tree could be seen lying on the ground with moss jacketing its form.
Kagome knew exactly where she was going as she hopped from rock to rock, trying not to touch the ground. Before she knew it, she stood in front of an enormous oak tree, that sheer size surpassed all the others tenfold. The great tree's roots intertwined each other and the leaves swayed in the breeze. Next to it was a tiny brook that trickled swiftly with flow of the current.
This was her spot. No one, not even Kaede, knew about her secret spot. This is where she went, usually to get away from her nanny, but sometimes she would just come out here for some peace and quiet. She sighed. It astonished her, how every time she visited it never ceased to amaze her with its magnificence.
Kagome started to climb the great tree, putting her educated feet in the foot holes as she went. She had climbed this tree enough times to know where she could step, and which would make her fall to the ground. That was not an experience she would like to relive.
She stopped when she reached a low branch that let her over look the forest in all its wonders. She leaned against its trunk, and closed her eyes, listening to the nature around her. Kagome tried not to fall asleep, Kaede would get worried. In a futile attempt, she tried to force her eyes open, only to find out that they were too heavy. 'Must not fall. asleep,' and with those last thoughts, she drifted off into unconsciousness.
Kagome awoke when she felt a bead of water plummet upon her nose. She opened her eyes to see tiny droplets falling from the now, gray and cloudy sky. 'How long have I been asleep? Ooooo, *.* Kaede might be angry." She hasty tried to climb down, but just as she was out of the tree she tripped.
Kagome landed with a thump on the ground. Irritated, she got up to kick, the offending root that got in her way. Just as she was about to, she saw a box of some sort stuck underneath. Curious, she stooped down, and gingerly picked it up the object. Kagome's hands ran across the box that looked large compared to her tiny hands. It was covered in mud, hiding its appearance.
Kagome was torn about whether or not she should take it with her. 'It's not mine. I shouldn't. It looks like it has been here for a while.' She thought refereeing to the mud. "Maybe. just this once." Kagome walked swiftly back home. This time with a very mysterious little box.
*At Home*
As soon as Kagome entered the house she was bombarded by a very distraught Kaede. "Where have you been!? I have been so worried!" Kaede's vice-like grip tightened.
"Kaede," Kagome choked. "Can't. breath!"
"Oh, sorry," Kaede said letting to of her. "Why are you so dirty?" she asked eyeing the mud stains on her clothes.
"I kind of fell asleep. Then when I got up I tripped and landed in the mud." Kagome looked towards the ceiling waiting for the lecture that was bound to be given.
"Well it's your own fault for waking up so early. Maybe then you wouldn't be so tired. And didn't I tell you to bring a jacket. You're going to catch a cold. Why when I was your age." Kagome tuned her nanny out and started to let her mind wander. After about five minutes it looked like the old woman was finished with her rant.
"Kaede, guess what I found!" Kagome said, forgetting all about the fact that Kaede was trying to talk to her. Kaede's eye twitched with irritation. "What did you find?"
"This!" Kagome held the box in front of her with outstretched arms.
"Do you know whose this is?" Kagome shook her head.
"It looks yucky," Kagome said. Kaede nodded, although she probably wouldn't use the word yucky, but it certainly fit the description. "Can we open it?" Kagome asked cautiously. She was dying to know what was inside. Her imagination ran wild, thinking treasure, or jewelry. Kaede took a minute to think about it, and finally nodded her head. Truth be told, she was interested as well as to what lied inside, but first it needed to be cleaned off.
Kaede took the box with its unknown contents and set it near the now empty sink. Kagome came over as well but had difficulty seeing over the counter. She scampered off, only to come back a minute later, with a wooden stool the same size as herself. She set it next to Kaede and sat watching as Kaede picked off the dry dirt with a fork. The dirt that had been pried off was set on a baby-blue colored dish towel.
Kagome heard the crashing of thunder. She looked toward the window. The tiny droplets had turned into a full blown storm. The rain came down in sheets, and the wind howled. The sense of foreboding hung in the air. Kagome tried to shake off the uneasy feeling and went back to studying Kaede's work.
Kaede ran some warm water after most of the filth had been picked away. She stepped away long enough to throw the dirt in a nearby trashcan. Taking a closer look at the box she noticed that there was something familiar about this box. She moistened the edge of the baby-blue dishtowel, and started to cautiously wipe off any remaining earth.
When Kaede was finished, she and Kagome both took a good look at the now clean box. It was stunning. It had been made of wood, and flowers had been carefully hand-painted on its rim. Amazingly the gold hinges were in perfect condition. Suddenly Kaede remembered where she had seen this box before.
Tears brimmed in her eyes, as she recalled who the beautiful box belonged to. It had been hers. Korrin's. No one was ever allowed to look inside. Her grandmother had given that to her on her 18th birthday, and she said it was 'her special box of seacrets.' She kept her greatest treasures buried within this small box.
Kaede thought of Korrin as the daughter she never had, and was the only one who listened to her, when she told of assumptions of Onigumo. Before she died, Korrin made Kaede promise to look after her daughter. Somehow she knew she would not survive.
Kaede was brought out of her recollections as Kagome started speaking. "Kaede is anything wrong?" she asked, noticing her nanny's distressed look.
"No. Not at all," she said wiping her eyes with the apron she wore.
"Okay. Can we open it?" Kagome said turning her attention back to the box.
"Kagome," Kaede said quietly. "I think you should have it." Kagome looked at her.
"Why?"
"Kagome, lets sit down." The pair moved from the kitchen and into the dining room, making sure to bring the box with them. The dining room was never used. They always ate their meals in the kitchen. Kaede had always said that eating in the dining room should be something for special occasions, not everyday meals. They sat at the large table with the crystal chandelier light hanging overhead.
"Kagome," Kaede started, her voice stayed unnaturally quiet. "This box belonged to yer mother. She and I used to be real good friends."
"Why haven't I been told about her?" Kagome asked not meeting Kaede's eyes. Whenever she had asked, Kaede would always change the subject.
"It hurts to talk about her." Kagome met her eyes and Kaede knew that she understood. Talking about her mother to Kagome would reopen old wounds. The wounds she tried so hard to forget about. "Your mama was a great woman, she didn't deserve to die." The last part was said so softly that Kagome almost didn't catch it.
"How did she die?" Kagome was almost afraid to ask.
"We'll talk about that another time. I think that this is enough 'sad talk' for one evening missy." 'She wouldn't understand, she would only blame herself.' "Now get up to yer room and put that in a safe place." She patted her but and gave her a nudge toward the stairs. Kagome carefully lifted up the box, and began to mount the steps. "And Kagome?"
"Yes?"
"Do me a favor honey, and don't open that box?" Something inside Kaede told her that whatever was in that box, Kagome wasn't ready to see. "You'll know when the time is right," she said, completely believing it was true. It was obvious that Kagome looked disappointed, but she nodded her head anyway and headed up to her room.
A roll of thunder could be heard from inside the house. For the first time, Kaede noticed how bad of a storm it was. She frowned as she heard the pounding of rain upon the rooftop. A resounding knock at the front door made her jump.
'Kaede you're just being paranoid' she told herself, almost laughing at how on edge she was. She made her way through the living room to get from the front door. She took a deep breath, and opened the door. What she saw made her whole body froze. 'It's . him!'
There Onigumo stood, drenched from rain, while lightening could be seen crashing in the background. His black trench coat did little to keep him dry.
"Can I come into my own home?" he sneered, settling his flashing eyes upon Kaede. Kaede soon got over the shock, but the prickling of fear she felt wouldn't go away.
"Onigumo," she said lowering her head respectfully. "What brings ye here?"
"I cannot come home for my little girl's birthday? I figured it was about time I met my own flesh and blood." Kaede knew as well as he did that the reason he chose today had nothing to do with Kagome's birthday, but her mother's death.
"Will you be staying long?" He grinned at her, showing off his lethal smile.
"I plan to stay for good. I think I should be apart of how my own child is brought up, don't you?" Not waiting for an answer he began again. "Either way, I will no longer require your services." He didn't even bother to try and sound sorry. 'No'
"You cannot take me away from her!"
"Oh but I can." His face showed no trace that there had ever been any humor. "And I will. If you don't cooperate I will be forced to call the authorities. Leave. Now." The look he gave her promised that he would do it within the instant if she gave him the chance. There was nothing she could do.
"Fine!" she shouted angrily. At that moment Kagome chose to come bouncing down the steps. Her tresses swaying as she did so. She came to a halt in front of them. She caught sight of the tears that had made their way down Kaede's face, and rushed to her side.
"What's wrong?" Kagome's concern was evident. Kaede knelt on the carpet of her, and put her hands on Kagome's shoulders.
"Kagome. I have to go now" she said trying not to break down. "You will be staying here with your daddy." 'My. daddy' Kaede turned her head in the direction of the door. Kagome gazed in the direction of Kaede's attention.
"Daddy," his face stayed impassive as she called him, but he spared her a detached glance. Kagome was distracted when Kaede wrapped her arms around her. Kagome wished that she could just forever stay in that position, being slightly crushed by someone she loved. (A/N: I think I heard that in a movie or something. Sorry if I read it in someone else's story, but I don't think I did. *.*)
"Goodbye Kagome," she whispered. With those final words Kaede grabbed her purse from the mantle, walked out of the still open door, closing it behind her as she left. When she reached her car scrambled to get in and sobbed against the steering wheel. 'Kagome.'
"Why did you make Kaede leave?!" she demanded, narrowing her eyes at her father. He may be her dad, but he had made the only person that she had ever loved disappear. Onigumo had been somewhat taken back by her outburst but only quirked an eyebrow in response. "I see I gave you something at least. You have my temper." He chuckled at the hidden meaning his words held. Yes, his temper was volcanic, and soon she would see for herself. "But you are foolish" He said with his voice becoming all too serious. By now Kagome was extremely confused. 'Why is he being so mean?' The way he had stated his last sentence, with such malice and cruelty, made tremors run throughout her body.
During her short revelations she had not noticed that he had moved until he was standing right beside her. Being so close she saw twinkling gleam in his eyes that said he was extremely exited. Exited about what was what frightened her. Than it hit her. She had never been scared like this before. This was not the kind of frightened, like of the boogie man, or monsters. No this was a true bone-chilling fear.
She was certainly sure of one thing. The man standing before her was not the kind-hearted gentlemen she had imagined, but someone who was twisted beyond words.
He looked in her eyes, the very ones her mother had given her, and all traces of humor left his face. It was replaced by a look of bitterness, and hatred. The change was so abrupt it caused Kagome to wonder what the reason behind it was. She had no idea the answer to her question would cause her an immense amount of pain.
"Do you know what day today is?" he asked startling her out of her thoughts.
"My birthday," she answered with as much confidence as she could muster at the moment. Within a second his hand had painfully gripped her arm, leaving her terror stricken.
"No!" He shouted in her face. "Today is the 7th year anniversary of your mother's death' She flinched as his grip grew stronger. "And you killed her" He spat. "You are the reason she is dead." Her pain was temporarily forgotten as his words sunk in. She knew her mother died when she was a baby, but she had no idea that she was the cause. No it couldn't be possible.
"What...what are you talking about? How could I have killed my mother? I was just a baby!" she cried almost franticly.
"Your mother died giving birth to you!" He roared. "A filthy little creature that did not deserve to live!" Her body went numb. It was her fault. It was all her fault. She was the reason her mom was dead. Her thoughts were once again interrupted this time by his nails starting to dig into her arms.
"Please let go," she pleaded. "You're hurting me." Kagome was beyond terrified. She had no idea what he would do.
"'Hurting you'?" He laughed hysterically. "You deserve to die, for what you have done!" he shouted. Picking her 7 year old body up entirely, he noticed that she was trembling. The thought that she knew he was a person to be frightened of brought a smile to his face, just before he threw her into the room.
After Kagome had crashed into the table, she fell into a heap upon the floor, and a sharp pain could be felt running up and down her leg, as well as tiny shards of glass, embedded into her back. But all she could do is watch helplessly as her father stalked his way across the room to where she lay. Silent tears could be clearly seen rolling down her face. Tonight would remain known as the worst night of her life till the end of time.
~ The Next Morning~
When she awoke in the morning every inch of her body ached. 'What happened,' she thought trying to sit up. Then the memories of the night before flooded back. She cringed remembering everything he had told her, and how he had thrown her around as if she was a doll. Kagome clenched her fists and her features hardened. She pleaded with him to stop, and he just hit harder. She couldn't imagine what she looked like.
He had seen her cry, only Kaede had seen her cry before. Kagome would NEVER let that happen again. When the tears fell down her face he called her weak and pathetic. Kagome and her stubborn sense of pride refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her cry for a second time, and Kagome's newfound determination was not one that would be easily broken.
Her determination however, did not subdue the guilt she felt. 'This is why Kaede didn't tell me. I was the reason she died.' Kagome had been told over and over again of how her mother should have lived.. It turned out that Kaede had been right. She blamed herself.
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Hey there! So what do you all think? If you read my first version, which to you like better? What about the title change? If you like my story it tell me what you like about it. If you don't like it tell me what you don't like about it so I can work on it. Constructive criticism is always appreciated. ^.^ What do you guys think is in the box? If any of you get it correct than you will receive an Honorable Mention in my story. Ooooo mysterious. 0.0 I like this chapter better than the last the other one. Give me you opinions! Please REVIEW! I will need AT LEAST 10 before I can post the next chapter!
Miss*Shay
A/N: Here it is! Hey everyone, just for you information this use to be called Tears, but now has been re-named to Fighting Back. Tell me which you like better.
Title: Fighting Back
Chapter 1: The Past
~Information~
As a little girl Kagome Higurashi knew no boundaries. She was a girl who had no fear. Life was limitless and nothing was impossible. But everything changed the day of her 7th birthday.
Kagome had been born on a stormy April night. She had been held once by her mother before death claimed the young woman with big blue eyes. The very same big blue eyes that Kagome herself possessed. In truth Kagome had all of her mother's features. She held no likeness to her father whatsoever. Even when she was but a baby it had been obvious.
Her father was a tall and lean man that could never not be intimidating. His piercing green eyes and black hair that reached his shoulders, was said to be extremely handsome. But very few of them knew of the dangerous man that lied beneath. Those who knew him well saw the malice within, and all were frightened.
Her mother was a petite woman who seemed to light up the room wherever she went. When her smile reached her eyes, she was said to outshine the Sun itself. She was caring and kind to say the least. There was never a person she wasn't willing to help. Being so naive at times would sometimes get her into trouble. She was often told that she put too much faith in people. She had long wavy black hair that gave a gorgeous contrast to her pale creamy skin. But her greatest beauty had been her eyes. Her deep blue eyes had been known to always show her every emotion. But alas, she could never find the strength within herself to stand up for what she believed in. She was meek and timid, unable to say no.
Kagome's mothers and fathers wedding had been arranged. Onigumo had built his own company by the time he was 27, and Korrin's father wished to merge their two companies into one. Korrin's parents felt that the marriage would consummate the combining of their companies, and secretly they had wanted someone who would be able to take care of Korrin as she got older. Kagome's father, Onigumo, didn't have the slightest problem with the agreement. He had immediately fallen in love with her mother's beauty and charm, but the feeling was not mutual.
Korrin felt that he was a devious man and that could not be trusted, but she could not bring herself to deny her parent's wishes. They had not been able to see past his false extererior for the man he really was. For once in her life she had been able to see what no one else could.
Onigumo knew his young bride cared nothing for him, even resented him. In fact, he was impressed that she could tell what kind of man he really was, yet she was still unable to talk back to him or anyone else. She seemed so weak and helpless. He was the one who would have always protected her. He had truly loved her.
Soon after there marriage, Korrin was expecting. 9 months later Kagome was born, and Korrin died giving birth to her. She was not strong enough to give life to another being.
When Onigumo saw his daughter for the first time he was shocked to say the least. In his arms he held a child that looked almost exactly like her mother. Of course there had been some differences, considering that Kagome had just been born. But he had no doubt that the baby with fuzz on top of her head and chubby little cheeks would grow into a beautiful young woman, like her mother.
But there was something different about this girl. The little girl possessed something her mother hadn't. She carried a look of determination in her breathtaking blue eyes that said she could handle anything the world threw at her. Her mother wasn't nearly as strong as the baby he held.
'It's not fair' he thought 'why should this child live when Korrin had to die!' He clutched the child more fiercely when felt waves of emotion crash down upon him, bitterness, despair, anger. It seemed like his whole world was crumbling around him. He knew then he could not sit and watch this child live the life his wife couldn't. Onigumo had to leave.
And after the funeral that is exactly what he did. He hired the first nanny that applied to care for Kagome, and left without a second thought, not knowing when he would be back. Fortunately for Kagome, an old woman with a heart of gold became her caretaker. The elderly woman instantly felt sympathy for Kagome, knowing that her mother died giving birth to her, and her father had practically abandoned her. Kaede knew that Kagome's life would be filled with hardships and at that moment she promised herself that she would do all that she could to prepare the unsuspecting girl for what lied ahead.
As Kagome grew, Kaede soon found out that Kagome was no 'submissive little girl'. She and Kagome could argue on end, sometimes for hours at a time. One day they had been so angry at each other that they glared at one another while literally shaking with rage. Not being able to take it anymore, Kaede threw her arms in the air and cried,"Arg! You should be in debate" and stalked out, sufficiently ending the argument. Kagome's glare soon became a look of confusion and she just stared at Kaede's retreating form for a few seconds before scrambling after her while shouting, "Hey Kaede, what's 'debate'?" But everything changed on Kagome's 7th birthday.
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~ Kagome's House ~ April, 9 ~ 6:00am ~
"Kaede," the, now 7 year old, Kagome whispered. "Kaede!" she whispered louder. The old woman lying on the four-poster bed was still unresponsive, even as a small index finger started to poke her cheek repeatedly. Kagome scrunched up her face, trying to think of a way to wake her sleeping nanny. Suddenly, an evil grin made its way through her face. 'Let's see if you wake up now! Hee hee.' "Kaede!!!!" Kagome screamed, jumping up and down beside her, and waving her hands frantically in the air.
"Ahhhhhhh!" Keade bolted upright, and the unexpected movement caused Kagome to fall into a sitting position on top of bed. Kagome giggled as the bouncy bed came to a halt. "What are ye tryin to do? Give me a heart-attack?" Kaede cried clutching her chest and breathing heavily.
"Kaede! You're up!" Kagome exclaimed. "No silly! Guess what day it is." Kagome eagerly knelt next to the gray-haired woman, waiting in anticipation for her answer. Kaede just smiled at the adorable face looking intently up at her.
"Tis your birthday today, isn't it?" As soon as the words left her mouth, Kagome's arms shot to the sky in triumph, causing her to lose her balance, and fall upon the floor. Kagome's nose wrinkled in discomfort as she rubbed her sore bottom. She climbed atop of the bed once again while Kaede chuckled at her.
"What time is it?" she asked looking at the digital clock on her nightstand. It shone in bright red letters 6:05. Kaede looked at the girl questioningly. 'What happened to the girl I usually have to pry out of bed in the morning?' "Well, since we are already awake we may as well get up." She sighed. "What do you want for breakfast?" Kaede asked moving to get up.
"Breakfast!" Kagome shouted and ran out the door like a shot. Shaking her head, Kaede slowly followed the energetic girl. 'I'm getting to old for this' she thought, smiling despite herself.
*After Breakfast*
"Kaede!" Kagome called from the back porch. To most it was dismal, but to Kagome it was charming, even with its gray peeling paint, and cool draft. "I'm going to go for a walk in the woods, okay?"
"Alright." Kaede shouted back, washing the dishes in the kitchen sink. "Just be safe, and remember to take your jacket. Oh, and don't stay out to long, it's suppose to rain. Take an umbrella just in case. And don't forget to."
"I'll be fine!" Kagome rolled her eyes at Kaede's worrywart ways, while skipping her way out the door. Kagome's home, more like mansion, was old and decaying, but gave a cozy feeling to all its occupants. It was secluded from all other houses, so Kagome had not found any friends that lived nearby. But she found comfort in the old woods that surrounded her house.
The trees stood sturdy and tall; while greenery spread itself upon the forest floor the sun shone bright, casting rays through the trees. Rocks could be found scattered here and there, and the gentle rustling of leaves could be heard as the wind coasted by. Every now and then, a fallen tree could be seen lying on the ground with moss jacketing its form.
Kagome knew exactly where she was going as she hopped from rock to rock, trying not to touch the ground. Before she knew it, she stood in front of an enormous oak tree, that sheer size surpassed all the others tenfold. The great tree's roots intertwined each other and the leaves swayed in the breeze. Next to it was a tiny brook that trickled swiftly with flow of the current.
This was her spot. No one, not even Kaede, knew about her secret spot. This is where she went, usually to get away from her nanny, but sometimes she would just come out here for some peace and quiet. She sighed. It astonished her, how every time she visited it never ceased to amaze her with its magnificence.
Kagome started to climb the great tree, putting her educated feet in the foot holes as she went. She had climbed this tree enough times to know where she could step, and which would make her fall to the ground. That was not an experience she would like to relive.
She stopped when she reached a low branch that let her over look the forest in all its wonders. She leaned against its trunk, and closed her eyes, listening to the nature around her. Kagome tried not to fall asleep, Kaede would get worried. In a futile attempt, she tried to force her eyes open, only to find out that they were too heavy. 'Must not fall. asleep,' and with those last thoughts, she drifted off into unconsciousness.
Kagome awoke when she felt a bead of water plummet upon her nose. She opened her eyes to see tiny droplets falling from the now, gray and cloudy sky. 'How long have I been asleep? Ooooo, *.* Kaede might be angry." She hasty tried to climb down, but just as she was out of the tree she tripped.
Kagome landed with a thump on the ground. Irritated, she got up to kick, the offending root that got in her way. Just as she was about to, she saw a box of some sort stuck underneath. Curious, she stooped down, and gingerly picked it up the object. Kagome's hands ran across the box that looked large compared to her tiny hands. It was covered in mud, hiding its appearance.
Kagome was torn about whether or not she should take it with her. 'It's not mine. I shouldn't. It looks like it has been here for a while.' She thought refereeing to the mud. "Maybe. just this once." Kagome walked swiftly back home. This time with a very mysterious little box.
*At Home*
As soon as Kagome entered the house she was bombarded by a very distraught Kaede. "Where have you been!? I have been so worried!" Kaede's vice-like grip tightened.
"Kaede," Kagome choked. "Can't. breath!"
"Oh, sorry," Kaede said letting to of her. "Why are you so dirty?" she asked eyeing the mud stains on her clothes.
"I kind of fell asleep. Then when I got up I tripped and landed in the mud." Kagome looked towards the ceiling waiting for the lecture that was bound to be given.
"Well it's your own fault for waking up so early. Maybe then you wouldn't be so tired. And didn't I tell you to bring a jacket. You're going to catch a cold. Why when I was your age." Kagome tuned her nanny out and started to let her mind wander. After about five minutes it looked like the old woman was finished with her rant.
"Kaede, guess what I found!" Kagome said, forgetting all about the fact that Kaede was trying to talk to her. Kaede's eye twitched with irritation. "What did you find?"
"This!" Kagome held the box in front of her with outstretched arms.
"Do you know whose this is?" Kagome shook her head.
"It looks yucky," Kagome said. Kaede nodded, although she probably wouldn't use the word yucky, but it certainly fit the description. "Can we open it?" Kagome asked cautiously. She was dying to know what was inside. Her imagination ran wild, thinking treasure, or jewelry. Kaede took a minute to think about it, and finally nodded her head. Truth be told, she was interested as well as to what lied inside, but first it needed to be cleaned off.
Kaede took the box with its unknown contents and set it near the now empty sink. Kagome came over as well but had difficulty seeing over the counter. She scampered off, only to come back a minute later, with a wooden stool the same size as herself. She set it next to Kaede and sat watching as Kaede picked off the dry dirt with a fork. The dirt that had been pried off was set on a baby-blue colored dish towel.
Kagome heard the crashing of thunder. She looked toward the window. The tiny droplets had turned into a full blown storm. The rain came down in sheets, and the wind howled. The sense of foreboding hung in the air. Kagome tried to shake off the uneasy feeling and went back to studying Kaede's work.
Kaede ran some warm water after most of the filth had been picked away. She stepped away long enough to throw the dirt in a nearby trashcan. Taking a closer look at the box she noticed that there was something familiar about this box. She moistened the edge of the baby-blue dishtowel, and started to cautiously wipe off any remaining earth.
When Kaede was finished, she and Kagome both took a good look at the now clean box. It was stunning. It had been made of wood, and flowers had been carefully hand-painted on its rim. Amazingly the gold hinges were in perfect condition. Suddenly Kaede remembered where she had seen this box before.
Tears brimmed in her eyes, as she recalled who the beautiful box belonged to. It had been hers. Korrin's. No one was ever allowed to look inside. Her grandmother had given that to her on her 18th birthday, and she said it was 'her special box of seacrets.' She kept her greatest treasures buried within this small box.
Kaede thought of Korrin as the daughter she never had, and was the only one who listened to her, when she told of assumptions of Onigumo. Before she died, Korrin made Kaede promise to look after her daughter. Somehow she knew she would not survive.
Kaede was brought out of her recollections as Kagome started speaking. "Kaede is anything wrong?" she asked, noticing her nanny's distressed look.
"No. Not at all," she said wiping her eyes with the apron she wore.
"Okay. Can we open it?" Kagome said turning her attention back to the box.
"Kagome," Kaede said quietly. "I think you should have it." Kagome looked at her.
"Why?"
"Kagome, lets sit down." The pair moved from the kitchen and into the dining room, making sure to bring the box with them. The dining room was never used. They always ate their meals in the kitchen. Kaede had always said that eating in the dining room should be something for special occasions, not everyday meals. They sat at the large table with the crystal chandelier light hanging overhead.
"Kagome," Kaede started, her voice stayed unnaturally quiet. "This box belonged to yer mother. She and I used to be real good friends."
"Why haven't I been told about her?" Kagome asked not meeting Kaede's eyes. Whenever she had asked, Kaede would always change the subject.
"It hurts to talk about her." Kagome met her eyes and Kaede knew that she understood. Talking about her mother to Kagome would reopen old wounds. The wounds she tried so hard to forget about. "Your mama was a great woman, she didn't deserve to die." The last part was said so softly that Kagome almost didn't catch it.
"How did she die?" Kagome was almost afraid to ask.
"We'll talk about that another time. I think that this is enough 'sad talk' for one evening missy." 'She wouldn't understand, she would only blame herself.' "Now get up to yer room and put that in a safe place." She patted her but and gave her a nudge toward the stairs. Kagome carefully lifted up the box, and began to mount the steps. "And Kagome?"
"Yes?"
"Do me a favor honey, and don't open that box?" Something inside Kaede told her that whatever was in that box, Kagome wasn't ready to see. "You'll know when the time is right," she said, completely believing it was true. It was obvious that Kagome looked disappointed, but she nodded her head anyway and headed up to her room.
A roll of thunder could be heard from inside the house. For the first time, Kaede noticed how bad of a storm it was. She frowned as she heard the pounding of rain upon the rooftop. A resounding knock at the front door made her jump.
'Kaede you're just being paranoid' she told herself, almost laughing at how on edge she was. She made her way through the living room to get from the front door. She took a deep breath, and opened the door. What she saw made her whole body froze. 'It's . him!'
There Onigumo stood, drenched from rain, while lightening could be seen crashing in the background. His black trench coat did little to keep him dry.
"Can I come into my own home?" he sneered, settling his flashing eyes upon Kaede. Kaede soon got over the shock, but the prickling of fear she felt wouldn't go away.
"Onigumo," she said lowering her head respectfully. "What brings ye here?"
"I cannot come home for my little girl's birthday? I figured it was about time I met my own flesh and blood." Kaede knew as well as he did that the reason he chose today had nothing to do with Kagome's birthday, but her mother's death.
"Will you be staying long?" He grinned at her, showing off his lethal smile.
"I plan to stay for good. I think I should be apart of how my own child is brought up, don't you?" Not waiting for an answer he began again. "Either way, I will no longer require your services." He didn't even bother to try and sound sorry. 'No'
"You cannot take me away from her!"
"Oh but I can." His face showed no trace that there had ever been any humor. "And I will. If you don't cooperate I will be forced to call the authorities. Leave. Now." The look he gave her promised that he would do it within the instant if she gave him the chance. There was nothing she could do.
"Fine!" she shouted angrily. At that moment Kagome chose to come bouncing down the steps. Her tresses swaying as she did so. She came to a halt in front of them. She caught sight of the tears that had made their way down Kaede's face, and rushed to her side.
"What's wrong?" Kagome's concern was evident. Kaede knelt on the carpet of her, and put her hands on Kagome's shoulders.
"Kagome. I have to go now" she said trying not to break down. "You will be staying here with your daddy." 'My. daddy' Kaede turned her head in the direction of the door. Kagome gazed in the direction of Kaede's attention.
"Daddy," his face stayed impassive as she called him, but he spared her a detached glance. Kagome was distracted when Kaede wrapped her arms around her. Kagome wished that she could just forever stay in that position, being slightly crushed by someone she loved. (A/N: I think I heard that in a movie or something. Sorry if I read it in someone else's story, but I don't think I did. *.*)
"Goodbye Kagome," she whispered. With those final words Kaede grabbed her purse from the mantle, walked out of the still open door, closing it behind her as she left. When she reached her car scrambled to get in and sobbed against the steering wheel. 'Kagome.'
"Why did you make Kaede leave?!" she demanded, narrowing her eyes at her father. He may be her dad, but he had made the only person that she had ever loved disappear. Onigumo had been somewhat taken back by her outburst but only quirked an eyebrow in response. "I see I gave you something at least. You have my temper." He chuckled at the hidden meaning his words held. Yes, his temper was volcanic, and soon she would see for herself. "But you are foolish" He said with his voice becoming all too serious. By now Kagome was extremely confused. 'Why is he being so mean?' The way he had stated his last sentence, with such malice and cruelty, made tremors run throughout her body.
During her short revelations she had not noticed that he had moved until he was standing right beside her. Being so close she saw twinkling gleam in his eyes that said he was extremely exited. Exited about what was what frightened her. Than it hit her. She had never been scared like this before. This was not the kind of frightened, like of the boogie man, or monsters. No this was a true bone-chilling fear.
She was certainly sure of one thing. The man standing before her was not the kind-hearted gentlemen she had imagined, but someone who was twisted beyond words.
He looked in her eyes, the very ones her mother had given her, and all traces of humor left his face. It was replaced by a look of bitterness, and hatred. The change was so abrupt it caused Kagome to wonder what the reason behind it was. She had no idea the answer to her question would cause her an immense amount of pain.
"Do you know what day today is?" he asked startling her out of her thoughts.
"My birthday," she answered with as much confidence as she could muster at the moment. Within a second his hand had painfully gripped her arm, leaving her terror stricken.
"No!" He shouted in her face. "Today is the 7th year anniversary of your mother's death' She flinched as his grip grew stronger. "And you killed her" He spat. "You are the reason she is dead." Her pain was temporarily forgotten as his words sunk in. She knew her mother died when she was a baby, but she had no idea that she was the cause. No it couldn't be possible.
"What...what are you talking about? How could I have killed my mother? I was just a baby!" she cried almost franticly.
"Your mother died giving birth to you!" He roared. "A filthy little creature that did not deserve to live!" Her body went numb. It was her fault. It was all her fault. She was the reason her mom was dead. Her thoughts were once again interrupted this time by his nails starting to dig into her arms.
"Please let go," she pleaded. "You're hurting me." Kagome was beyond terrified. She had no idea what he would do.
"'Hurting you'?" He laughed hysterically. "You deserve to die, for what you have done!" he shouted. Picking her 7 year old body up entirely, he noticed that she was trembling. The thought that she knew he was a person to be frightened of brought a smile to his face, just before he threw her into the room.
After Kagome had crashed into the table, she fell into a heap upon the floor, and a sharp pain could be felt running up and down her leg, as well as tiny shards of glass, embedded into her back. But all she could do is watch helplessly as her father stalked his way across the room to where she lay. Silent tears could be clearly seen rolling down her face. Tonight would remain known as the worst night of her life till the end of time.
~ The Next Morning~
When she awoke in the morning every inch of her body ached. 'What happened,' she thought trying to sit up. Then the memories of the night before flooded back. She cringed remembering everything he had told her, and how he had thrown her around as if she was a doll. Kagome clenched her fists and her features hardened. She pleaded with him to stop, and he just hit harder. She couldn't imagine what she looked like.
He had seen her cry, only Kaede had seen her cry before. Kagome would NEVER let that happen again. When the tears fell down her face he called her weak and pathetic. Kagome and her stubborn sense of pride refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her cry for a second time, and Kagome's newfound determination was not one that would be easily broken.
Her determination however, did not subdue the guilt she felt. 'This is why Kaede didn't tell me. I was the reason she died.' Kagome had been told over and over again of how her mother should have lived.. It turned out that Kaede had been right. She blamed herself.
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Hey there! So what do you all think? If you read my first version, which to you like better? What about the title change? If you like my story it tell me what you like about it. If you don't like it tell me what you don't like about it so I can work on it. Constructive criticism is always appreciated. ^.^ What do you guys think is in the box? If any of you get it correct than you will receive an Honorable Mention in my story. Ooooo mysterious. 0.0 I like this chapter better than the last the other one. Give me you opinions! Please REVIEW! I will need AT LEAST 10 before I can post the next chapter!
Miss*Shay