Disclaimer: I do not own InuYasha that right belongs to Rumiko Takahashi-san. Nor do I own Vampire Knight, that belongs to Matsuri Hino.
Author's Notes: This part two. I have split it because writing it all in one go would be to much work with the holiday season. So, please enjoy part two. Also, due to Kagome being there, things are going to start to deviate a... lot from the... Cannon storyline for this part.
Kaname P.o.v.
Kaname just looked at the elder Ichijo, red eyes impassive as he let a small polite smile curled his lips. The man was in shock; there was no way he could deny it, not with the whole of the Moon Dorm seeing him stare at Kagome. Who, from what he could tell, was highly amused, though he knew it didn't show on her face as she stared at the man with complete and utter awe on her face. Setting everything they had discussed and planned into motion, though, he was curious about why she decided to hold a tray with two cups and a hot teapot on it.
"Kagome, do not oggle it is rude," he said softly to her.
The soft gasp before she mumbled a quiet apology, had him moving his arm just a bit, extracting his hand from the elder Ichijo. A game they've been playing since he had come into his care, uncle in tow. The man was rather presumptuous, and it was annoying at times.
"It is okay. But he is Takuma's grandfather, Lord Asato Ichijo," He stated, knowing that he sounded rather bored at introducing them.
He was tilting his head a bit when the elder Ichijo looked at him for a brief second. Only to have that pale blue gaze drawn back to Kagome. Who he saw had stepped forward and was bowing properly. Right leg bent, the left sliding out behind her as she still held the tray, not even disturbing it. Only stilling when she was but a few inches from the floor. Leaving him rather impressed at how still she was not moving or disturbing the Tea.
When a minute had passed by, and she still had not raised her person, Kaname made a discreet cough — causing everyone in the room to start a bit. And the Elder Ichijo had the courtesy to look ashamed for but a second as he spoke, telling the girl to raise herself. Earning a lot of crude commentary from her mentally, that Kaname wanted to chuckle. But that would be rude.
"Who is this girl, Kaname? How did you meet? Why is she here in this dorm so late at night?" Asato asked, his eyes still rooted to the girl.
"I do not answer for her, Lord Ichijo," He said with a sigh. "Ask her yourself if you wish to know. You'll find she is very friendly."
Letting his eyes flick to the others, he saw the mixed reactions as they remained unmoved and impassive as they were capable of. It was evident that they still held a bit of a dislike for Kagome, though there was no mistaking that they all were warming up to her. That and curiosity. She was even an enigma to him.
"Girl, answer the questions I just asked," Asato said, his voice sharp, demanding.
Mentally he spoke to Kagome, "You may answer as you will, but be polite."
The light, airy giggle he got told him she was going to have fun. Then he was shocked as her brain went completely blank. Faint thoughts of a vapid, shallow girl who was only drawn to the night class filling her mind. It had him wanting to shudder at how even he was blocked so quickly.
"Oh.. Yes, Of course, my Lord!" Kagome said, her voice cheery and bright. "I am Higurashi, Kagome. We met a few months ago, Lord Ichijo, due to me being out and about on the new moon. I had wandered from the school grounds and found myself confronted with two wolves. I do not know why Kaname was out there, but he helped me. And I was taught that one always pays their debts."
As she trailed off, Kaname looked down at her. There was not a hint of a lie in what she said, though he knew it was heavily edited. More so since none of the rest of the Moon Dorm knew the truth, meaning this was the first they heard of it. Helping to sate some of that curiosity that he knew they had on that. And from the fact that Kagome had their blood contract tightly wrapped and smothered under her powers, masking that for his sake, Kaname couldn't complain.
"That is... interesting. Please continue," Asato said, his voice holding a bit of disbelief.
"Yes, Sir!" Kagome practically gushed all bubbly like. "Well, I am very stubborn, Lord Ichijo. I may have coerced him into allowing me to help him, even if it was to do menial things. One's life is not something you take for granted. I know it can be easily snuffed out without a second to think. And so, now I am here. Also, I wanted to visit. I find his company rather pleasant. As well as the others here in the Night Class."
Kaname heard a soft choke from Aido who was smartly staying away from the three of them. He could tell by the other in the common room aurea that they were in shock and awe. But he knew they picked up on how she sounded when talking about how easily life could be taken. It was brief, but it was a show of actual pain and sadness. Something she didn't usually show or even radiate.
"Really now? You find Kaname pleasant to visit, as well as all the other children." Asato said, his voice laced with keen interest. "So, what do you think of all of them as people? And what is your opinion of my grandson Takuma, girl? Do you like him romantically?"
Kaname felt the small wave of power roll off of Lord Ichijo. He knew what the man was attempting to do. And he knew that Kagome was looking at his eyes, meaning she was giving him that leeway, the power to probe her mind. But if he, himself, had not been able to break the barrier she had created a few days ago, then Lord Ichijo would not be able to. Add to the fact that he knew that the man could tell she was not lying.
"I think they are wonderful people, who, like myself and those of the Day Class, are trying to find who they are and what they want in life." Kagome quipped her blunt honesty, almost a slap to the man's face. "As for your grandson Takuma, he is nice. Easy to talk to and be around. And as for if I like him romantically... how do I say this."
Kaname felt his eyes going wide because he had no clue what she would say or do. And as far as he knew that she had no interest emotionally, let along romantically, in anyone. However, her words could cause an issue between the two that seemed to be showing interest in her — something he didn't want to deal with right now.
"Lord Ichijo, I do not think..." He started saying only to be cut off as he heard Kagome huff indignantly.
"It is alright, Kaname. I can explain myself. I know when being asked by a Lord that it is best to be honest and straightforward. My mother did instill some manners into me," Kagome said.
"Let me do this!" She hissed in the back of his head.
With a small nod of his head, Kaname backed down. He knew that denying her would make her upset. Not that seeing an angry Kagome, from what he heard, would be humorous.
"Your mother taught you well, girl," Asato said, his voice sounding amused and smug.
"Thank you! When she was alive, she made sure that I knew my manners. Even if we were common and simple folk, no real money, manners were something all classes of society can have and share," Kagome said, her voice showing her eagerness. "And the easiest way for me to explain how I feel about your grandson is with an analogy, if that is alright with you, Lord Ichijo?"
At her statement, Kaname felt old pain roll through the link before it was gone, smothered by her. He would have to ask her about that at a later date. Though he was curious about the analogy, she was going to use it until a very sharp image appeared in his head. Leaving him wondering just how she was able to even make that comparison.
"By all means, use your analogy," Asato said.
"I like Takuma just fine. But only as a friend. There is and will never be any romantic feelings for him," Kagome stated in a clear, blunt manner. "And the reason why is what my analogy is for. I am using Cats and Dogs for this. Cats, well, they are affectionate, just like dogs, yes?"
At her words, Kaname heard several of the others shift as he watched Lord Ichijo nod his head, blue eyes narrowing. This was going to get rather interesting or bloody.
"Well, the difference is in how it is shown as both are on opposite sides of the spectrum personality-wise as well. I equate your grandson to a cat. They may be pets, but in their minds, the human who owns them is nothing more than their servants. And are only graced with their affection when they deem them to have done something worth it," Kagome said, a little giggle as she paused before continuing. "And Dogs well, they are over-affectionate, in your face creatures. They are servile to the human who owns them. And have to constantly let that person know by any means that they love them. Is this making sense?"
Kaname had to admit that even a small child could make sense of what she was stating. Though he was a bit leery of her choosing to use the word human instead of person or people, it was Kagome's little way of showing she was getting the man back. And from the way blue eyes were narrowed, it was not missed. Though he could still feel the man trying to search for something in her mind that would give her away. Having already closed off the mental connection, Kaname waited.
"Then, do tell, which person of the Night Class is the dog in this analogy?" Asato said.
The question was unexpected and had Kaname starting a bit harder at the Elder Ichijo. And would have put a stop to this if a sweet-sounding laugh coming from Kagome had him feeling a small chill running down his back. He was turning to look at her as several gasps came from all around. She was pointing to Aido. Her face lit up like the night sky under a full moon as she smiled contentedly.
"Aido. He is loud, always needing attention. Though he is very friendly, not a bad trait. Your grandson is quiet, watchful, and keeps things close to himself and those he trusts. I prefer how outspoken Aido is. As it is easier to read him, interact and understand," Kagome said, her voice soft, polite, as her smile became broader and brighter.
"So, you are saying you prefer dogs over cats?" Asato asked, his voice a bit mystified and irritated all at once.
"No!" Kagome replied. "I would prefer it if I ever get old enough to find me a good person, someone who is between. That way, I can know I am wanted, loved. But at the same time, I have to work to earn what I want. Otherwise, I would be very bored or left to wonder if there was something wrong with me."
Kaname found himself looking down at Kagome. There was no mistaking the bitterness in her voice. He knew she was over five hundred years old. That in that time, even with her Lord, she should have experienced a few handfuls of romance. Though he knew she was pure and untouched like Yuuki. But it was odd to hear from her that she was not interested in romance. That would mark her as different from the other day students. Not that the weird, fluttery like thoughts of the pretty boys, including Kiryu floating around in her head that leaked to his.
"Ah, I see. Well, I am sorry to have kept you," Asato said, clearly disturbed. "Takuma, let us talk."
He was going to do nothing as they walked away. Already aware that Lord Asato Ichijo had placed Takuma in the school to watch over himself. But it was a small gasp from Kagome that had everyone stopping.
"Oh, the Tea is cold. I had prepared it when I heard you were coming to visit so that the visit would have a nice comfortable atmosphere. Not that I thought I would get to meet a Lord," Kagome said, clearly pouting prettily.
The slight frown on Lord Ichijo's face as he looked away from the girl for, but a second was telling and then hearing the man give a backhanded apology that had Kagome practically beaming at him. Not moving or saying a thing as he watched the two Ichijo's enter into the Library and the doors close.
As soon as they did, Kaname felt a bit drained as he looked down at Kagome. Who had her blue eyes narrowed and was fuming? The look on her face reminded him of a gargoyle statue. But it was the commentary that was flowing through their link once more that had him unable to keep from chuckling — bringing a hand up to his mouth to smother the sound as his shoulder shook.
"You...see... me as a dog?"
The question had a collective sigh break the silence as he watched Kagome turn and look at Aido for but a few seconds before walking towards him. Once she was before him, she shoved the tray into his hand, causing the teapot and cups to clink loudly. Her head was tilted up so she could meet his gaze.
"In some aspects, you are similar. Not that I don't like it. And it makes it so much more fun to tease you," Kagome quipped. "And it is nice to be able to do something so familiar and friendly with someone. It shows that I actually like you... why I do? Well, I am still trying to figure that one out, Hanabusa!"
With that said, he watched as she stepped back and bowed at the waist to the group. He was noting that Ruka was eyeing her in an unfriendly manner. He knew why it was that way as well; the girl had a crush on him. Though he felt nothing for her and would never. Letting his gaze go over to the two others that had shown their interest, he was surprised to see the contemplative looks on their faces as they watched Kagome harangue Aido. All Vampires were very possessive creatures. And she was no sheep amongst the wolves; instead, they were all the sheep, and she was the wolf. But the fact she was oblivious to the attention of those two would be rather amusing when it all came to light.
Kagome P.o.v.
She had done it. And it left her feeling utterly dirty acting like that. But a part of her was happy that Sesshoumaru had made her learn to dissimulate and compartmentalize her brain so effectively. Shutting down things she didn't want rummaged through. While allowing her mind to fill with nonsensical fluff that would not be taken seriously. And boy was her mind ransacked by that overinflated ass. Keeping the smile on her face was difficult.
"And that ladies and gentlemen is how you con an egotistical Vampire Lord!" she mentally sang. "Because it is a talent that no self-respecting actress or woman should not have. Hello! Diva right here!"
She knew that Kaname would want to talk at a later date as she made her way to Aido and shoved the tray at him. Being kind and explaining to him what she thought and felt. She did like him, but he made it too easy to tease him. His open honesty was at odds with him being a Vampire. Then again, with his family, it was not too surprising. He was making it kind of endearing.
"Well, I need to head back to the Sun Dorm. It is growing late, and I have to get at least two hours of studying before sleeping and waking for my class in the morning," She said as she patted Aido on the shoulder.
Stepping back, she gave them another polite bow at the waist before she spun on the ball of her feet and skipped, literally skipped to the door and out it since the pompous ass had not shut it when he came in.
Checking the mental link as she pulled the door closed behind her, she spoke to Kaname, "I will talk with you when you deem it the appropriate times. But I will not guarantee that I will answer all your questions. I am not ready... if ever... to answer some of what I know you want to ask me, Lord Kuran."
There were a few seconds as she walked down the path to the gates, where she saw Yuki and Zero coming up, had her darting off to the side.
"As you wish, Kagome," came Kaname's reply. Though she could tell, he knew that they were coming.
Ducking into the shadows and behind some bushes, she didn't miss the narrowed purple-eyed look from Zero in her direction. But he didn't stop and knew he wouldn't be able to prove she was there. It bothered her that his vampire side was starting to awaken more and more. And feeding off Yuuki, who was special already, was not helping matters. Reverently she sent a quick prayer to the Kami's that Kaname would not kill the youth.
? P.o.v.
I honestly didn't know what to make of the whole situation. It was rather irksome. That and the fact that Kagome had somehow gotten into the dormitory unannounced at some point. Though it was amusing to see her speak like a vapid, shallow girl, it was apparent she was mimicking the other girls of the Day Class. It was almost laughable.
Sighing as I let my eyes stay trained on her for the most part. I knew that I was not the only one watching her. Everyone else was tense and worried. The contract was a unique type, not breakable unless it was completed, or either one of the contractees were killed. And from what I had picked up on about the girl, her Lord would not be pleased if she was murdered. Kaname's death was not an option either.
Feeling myself smiling as she answered each question of Takuma's Grandfather with an almost childlike zeal was rather amusing. She was playing him like a finely tuned instrument, leaving me in awe of another layer of her personality and further drawing me into the mystery that surrounded her. Though I stayed close to Ruka, since she, like Aido, had jumped to defend Kaname. An unneeded thing, even if what the Elder Ichijo had done, had gotten him a bit irked.
The moment she had gotten to giving the analogy, I couldn't help myself. The way it was worded and delivered was undeniable in her talking down and mocking the Elder. That was something that I wouldn't ever do. But she knew he would not attack her and kill her. Because if a student went missing, it was a different type of fiasco, bringing in several major players: the Vampire Hunters, Headmaster Cross, and her Lord.
Looking over at Senri, I noticed he was focused solely on her. It was causing something in me to coil tightly, as I felt my hand grip a bit tighter to Ruka's arm. In the next second, I had my gaze back on the girl as she denoted that Takuma was a cat and that Aido was a dog. Before stating she preferred something in the middle. It is causing me to look at Senri again. The way those usually blank eyes seemed to gleam had me fighting to keep from baring my fangs and hissing.
Her voice, there was no mistaking it, she had no real interest in relationships. And that she might have been severely hurt in the past from one. She was causing a protective instinct in me too well up. Unable to see her eyes, I was already aware of the fact that they were probably a bit darker with those particular emotions. Swiftly I filed that away as well as the fact that she talked about her mother in the past tense.
Before I knew it, Takuma and his Grandfather were in the study, Kaname was retiring upstairs, as Kagome left. Leaving a very frustrated and dare I even think it, hopeful Aido, which means that he was taking a new interest in the girl. Just what I didn't need. Sighing, I followed Ruka up the stairs, already knowing what she was going to do — readying myself to deal with the fallout for it. My heart has always been hers. But she never seemed to realize it, and at the moment, I was trying not to second guess myself about my feelings. That girl was confusing me. And I knew that Kaname knew more than he was letting on where that was concerned.
TBC!
