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Chapter 28: Ramen

Shiori was looking through the markup of the Vogue Paris magazine expected to be published soon with her credentials finally next to the title as Editor. Her silver hair fell down her back and she felt relaxed after the wonderful night she had with Shippo. She walked around feeling as light as a feather. A blush came to her cheeks as the smile she couldn't keep down spread across her face. He had tried to leave early so he could rush home to grab clothes but she already had him covered. Without much effort, the kitsune tiredly fell back down into sleep pulling her close to his side and burying his nose into her soft hair. He was wonderful and so amazing to wake up to. He didn't make her feel awkward afterwards or anything like that. They both laughed and talked while getting ready for work. By the time she started curling her long hair, Shippo had started breakfast. She giggled to herself at the memory of him nearly dropping the eggs when she came into the kitchen wearing a Chanel black dress and a Valentino print Jacket. He almost completely forgot about breakfast and spent a little more extra time to remind her of how amazing he thought she was.

When they finally got ready for the day, they ran into a small problem. He needed changing clothes as she had none of her brother's clothing at her condo. She snuck him into her office and pulled a few sample pieces from the holding room for him to wear. She told him it was last season's samples which in the fashion world meant vintage or outdated. He grabbed a simple pair of jeans and a white t-shirt thinking that it wasn't much. She of course kept it to herself that he just grabbed his simplistic look from designer clothes worth more than fifteen hundred dollars. Shiori smiled and bit the tip of her pen at the memory of how masculine and handsome he looked. Her heart was beating madly in her chest now. They had only been apart for two hours and it felt like it had been a full day. She wanted to know how his meeting was going and if they had any questions about her gala. He invited her to come to some very important meeting they were having but she couldn't go. She had to finish the markup and send it on its way. Plus, Inukimi would be in the office early and needed her assistance after complaining on the phone to her nonstop about the idiocy surrounding her in the office.

Shiori's eyes looked back down to her work again sprawled everywhere. She needed to finish this. She adjusted her posture in her chair and tried to train her brain to focus on the task at hand. But it was difficult when she felt like she was on cloud nine. She had told Shippo that this weekend, she would go to his house as she forgot that the next day was a Monday and she could not miss work. Her Alpha would rip into her if she didn't come in or was late. There was so much to do and Inukimi was ready to go back to New York not trusting anyone to do her job there. She wondered what his place looked like. Why was he so reluctant to show her? What could possibly be so bad about someone's house? Especially a house belonging to a guy like Shippo? She bet it was beautiful and bright. Shiori's eyes would cross over to the clock on the wall and check the time hoping it was the afternoon already but it was only ten in the morning.

She pulled the book back in front of her and concentrated on the mistakes she found. Her keen eyes swept every page making notes and placing sticky notes through the book. Her desk was covered with invitation lists and things to cover for her big show. She looked around feeling swamped but she had to do this. She had to prove to everyone that she could do this without the name Tashio backing her up. Shiori had heard of all the things people were saying behind her back and there was always the letter or email coming through asking for permission for a spread or for tickets to exclusive shows. She of course told them no and to work for it. She could be just as successful and as gritty as her Alpha and she would prove that no one would take advantage of her.

Shiori heard the sound of heels clicking and she immediately looked up. Everyone stayed clear of the top office today knowing that their careers could very well be on the chopping block. The sound of heels was heard snapping against the marble floor coming closer and her hopes got high. Shiori looked up at the closed office on her left with hope. Monday had come and Kikyo wasn't in yet. Shiori sighed having hoped that she would be able to share her mornings with the woman. Maybe talk to her about other things too that was plaguing her.

Shiori shook her head at the scent of just another assistant caught her nose. She shook her head and reached for her phone to text Kikyo herself and see what was happening. She had just pressed send when she felt the heavy aura of her alpha walk into the office. Shiori stilled for a moment at the sensation of others approaching as well. Immediately, she went into her work waiting patiently for Inukimi to arrive when to her surprise the woman waltz straight by followed by two demons in suits. Shiori recognized them immediately as the family lawyers that saw to court and financial disputes. Shiori stood up and walked to her door to greet them properly with a bow and a handshake. Inukimi waved her hand in greeting to Shiori but continued her quick stride to her office.

"Shiori I will be in a meeting with the lawyers this morning. If you need anything, just knock-" InuKimi stopped mid stride and sniffed. She looked over at her daughter with a critical gaze. Fox was potent today unlike the usual days when she came in. InuKimi pursed her lips saving that for an afternoon investigation for continuing. "But I think we're about through anyway, isn't that right gentlemen." Inukimi said guiding the pair straight into her office nonchalantly. "Kikyo will be in later this evening but she has finished her recommendations which are on her desk for the taking." Inukimi said already aware of Kikyo's unfortunate situation by her sources. After what she just completed, part of Kikyo's services would no longer be needed. But, she was curious now as to see how the woman would carry herself after such an ordeal.

Shiori nodded her head and watched the trio disappear behind the sound proof doors. Shiori crossed her arms over her chest and frowned. "Why are Daddy's lawyers here?" She asked before slowly turning around to go back into her office. Her Alpha was up to something if she got the family lawyers in her office. Shiori picked up her cell phone and made a call.

"Hi Daddy!"

"….."

"Yes, I'm fine but…why are your lawyers here in the office with Kimi? Is something wrong?"

Inuyasha drove up to the hospital speeding in his red sports car making quite a scene. The music in his car was thumping. The nurses standing outside with their patients pushing wheel chairs and assisting others looked onwards with expressions of amazement and disapproval. Inuyasha turned down his music and immediately got out the car. He took off his shades and tossed them in his seat. His golden eyes trailed up the sidewalk at Kikyo dressed in white scrubs with dark sunglasses walking briskly along the pavement while fighting off the assistance of her nurse who was trying her best to assist her in walking. In her hands were her clothes, purse, orange flowers, and blue superstar helium balloons along with papers in a plastic bag.

"What the fuck!" He yelled rushing over to Kikyo's side. "Are you crazy!" He said taking some from her hand and running to his car. He popped the trunk and put it inside before closing it roughly.

"She shouldn't be walking in her condition!" The nurse yelled at him while Kikyo attempted to walk faster to get away from her.

"Took you long enough!" She said reaching his car with shaky legs. "I called you like two hours ago!"

"Despite what everyone thinks...I work too you know!" He yelled watching her attempt to open the car door. He closed it to stop her from going further. "They have laws for those in the hospital you know! You can't just leave!" He yelled as the nurse nodded.

Kikyo rolled her eyes and showed him the plastic bag she had with the release papers and her follow-up guides. "I passed all their tests and I signed myself out! I have been properly discharged. They can't keep me here!" She snapped back turning to look at the nurse with a glare. "Get the hell away from me!"

"I'm sorry Mr. Tashio!" She apologized hoping this wouldn't end in her losing her job. Inuyasha waved her off attempting to put out the fire that was Kikyo's temper. The nurse crossed her arms over her chest and stormed away trying to avoid the apologetic looks of her coworkers. Kikyo reached for the door again only to have him move to lean in front of it. "Besides, I'm not staying there in that place any longer than needed." She said grabbing the car for support. Her core felt raw and her legs hurt to stand. She fought the urge to crawl up into a ball right then and there out of pride.

"You should stay and get more rest." Inuyasha saw the cringing expression and her knees shake. He opened the door quickly and grabbed her by her middle. He slowly moved her into the passenger seat of his car making sure she didn't bump her head. Her movements were slow and erratic as if she was afraid she would lose a limb. He helped her push her legs up into the car and fixed her seatbelt. "You're crazy you know that!" He finished before closing the door.

"Hurry the hell up! Get in the car and take me home!" She countered having reached her peak with everyone. Kikyo watched him rush over to his side and get in the car. She was tired of people looking at her with sorrowful eyes. She was certainly tired of everyone telling her what she couldn't and could do. She had been through worse for Christ's sake. This was nothing and she wished people would just move on already and stopped treating her like a broken china doll. She reached in his seat to grab his sunglasses so he didn't sit on them. "Look I got work soon so I got to get home and change!" She spoke pushing her sunglasses further on her nose. "Do as I say or I promise you I'll purify you right now!" She finished crossing her arms over her chest nonchalantly.

"Is this how you talk to everyone?" He yelled putting his foot on the brakes and his hand on the key in the ignition.

"I make threats to people I hate and promises are for friends." She muttered turning her head towards Inuyasha and holding out his sunglasses.

Inuyasha stilled at her words and tried to see her beyond her dark shades. A crooked smile went onto his face as he started up the car. He reached for his sunglasses and put them on his face before putting his foot on the gas and taking them slowly out of the hospital pick-up lane. He turned out and went to the red light to wait for the turn. He looked over at Kikyo who sat with her head resting on her fingers while looking around her with a frown.

"You really shouldn't be up after your condition." He spoke lowly watching the traffic.

"Oh for Christ sakes!" Kikyo sighed and took off her shades. "Look. Don't do that. That pisses me off." She said using her shades to point at him.

"Do what?" He asked watching the light change from red to green.

"Don't pussyfoot around me, ok! I'm not some fragile glass or a piece of porcelain. I'm fine!" She snapped.

"No you're not!" Inuyasha countered turning the vehicle and getting onto the road. "You were just admitted and released from the hospital!" He yelled loudly at her. His own ears fell against his head at the sound of his voice in the car. "And why are you wearing scrubs!?" He asked watching out of cars on the road while driving straight.

Kikyo looked down at her current fashion ensemble. "I really needed to shower and I needed clothes to walk out in. My old ones smell like death and old coffee. So I took these from the nurse's rooms."

"But how? Aren't there rules about this?" Inuyasha asked still not understanding how the hospital allowed her to get access to them. No patients should have access to get them.

"They're just scrubs Inuyasha. Not military uniforms and badges." She said putting her shades back on her face.

"Whatever." He muttered before putting his foot on the gas and speeding forward.

Kikyo sat patiently in the car giving him directions to her loft. She told him to turn on the main road but he kept going forward. "Inuyasha, you missed the turn." She said looking over at him knowing he was doing this on purpose.

"I know. We're going to get brunch first since I know you didn't eat this morning." Inuyasha gripped his steering wheel and drove casually forward further away from the inner city.

Kikyo shook her head and looked forward. "I was in a hurry and the nurses were too slow. Like I said, I have work today." She looked over at Inuyasha as he put his foot heavily on the gas and speeded through the streets breaking all kinds of traffic laws. "You know you are going to have a hell of a fine."

"No, I won't. My last name is Tashio remember." He said speeding with a growing smile as they went further out away from the city.

They drove making light conversation in the car. Mostly it was Inuyasha asking if she was ok constantly. She would move her leg and wince which would set him off on a tirade about how she should take better care of herself and how she should have allowed them to take her in a wheel chair. Kikyo of course would explain to him how capable she was of getting about and doing things for herself. It was pleasant for the most part. The large buildings of new and old buildings began to become scarce and replaced by smaller homes and bigger yards. They crossed several tracks from the monorail that was taking passengers out towards the western countryside. Kikyo looked out the window at all the greenery and beautiful hills everywhere. In pockets were quaint little farms and towns with people walking about and going on about their day. A lovely vineyard shined along the road that had her itching to sample just a taste.

"So where are we going exactly?" She asked unsure if she could trust him so adamantly to just take her off somewhere. She would give him an inch and hope he didn't hang himself with it.

"Someplace where the food isn't so terrible and where we won't be stalked with picture takers." He responded moving his car fluidly through the pathway.

Kikyo didn't think about that. "I made it in the paper?" She said already stealing her heart for the things he would say to her. She was ready. She could take the brutal beatings from anyone. She had made her mistakes and was paying for the old and her future ones at the moment.

Inuyasha's fang came to drag over his lip. "Well…we all did." He said. "Mother called me to ask how you were. She said they covered it on page three of The Parler." He explained. "It's just speculation though. Nothing too bad was written. Just annoying damn dirt bags sticking their nose in places it doesn't belong."

Kikyo nodded in agreement. Paparazzi were beastly creatures. The worst as they would go searching for a story when there wasn't one. Then sell it for top dollar for profit. Kikyo inhaled wondering what he read and what he knew. He already had gotten himself involved in her life. He knew now some of her more intimate details. She bit her lip and continued her thoughts about where Inuyasha fit in her life. Soon however her thoughts changed as a large red brick stone estate with beautiful hanging gardens came into view. Kids and adults of all shapes and sizes were seen playing in the grass with a ball or having a picnic out on the lawn. Gardeners were everywhere planting and landscaping the lands. A giant black gate wrapped around the place keeping them safely inside but she could see where the gates opened to allow entry. They drove forward under large red brick archways with moss and flowers blooming in the cracks. Signs were placed telling them which way to go until they drove pass a white statue of a woman holding two little hands belonging to young children. Underneath the statue above a great flower pit was a name.

Bonfamille Home for Brilliant Children

Kikyo followed the sign as they rode by with her eyes until it was out of sight. They rode up to a security station and Inuyasha pulled out his ID and asked for hers as well. Two security guards waited patiently for her to dig through her purse in search for her work visa since she didn't have dual citizenship. The security officer nodded and handed over their IDs. He gestured for them to go through. The gate opened and Inuyasha drove slowly mindful of the children all over the place. Kikyo looked out the window as some of the kids started running behind them and on the side towards the car. She looked over at Inuyasha seeing the wide grin on his face. His aura grew with each inch they took towards the facility. He honked his horn obnoxiously and she heard the cheers outside of his car erupt. They pulled to a complete stop in the visitor's parking lot and parked.

Inuyasha quickly took off his seatbelt and cut off the car. Kikyo looked about confused as to where in the world they were that sold brunch with hundreds of children running about. She slowly unbuckled her seatbelt and watched Inuyasha get out the car. His aura exploded upon his exit that had her leaning back against her cushioned seat. Immediately, his torso was attacked with small hands and hugs. "What's up guys!" He said roughing up hairs, furs, and feathers. He pinched ears and jaws affectionately.

"Inuyasha!"

"Yasha!"

"We missed you!"

"Did you bring us something!"

"Look at your car!"

"So cool!"

Kikyo smiled at the sea of shining faces gazing up at the Inu prince like a true idol. So many kids of all shapes, colors, origins, and sizes were about. All of them were coming over in waves to see him wanting to know all kinds of things. Inuyasha playfully argued with a few and told them to mind their business which got him a few smart remarks from a younger oni child that mimicked him like a mirror. As if remembering why he came, he quickly parted the sea of children and ran to her side of the car. He threw open the door.

"Where are we?" She asked pulling her purse onto her lap so she didn't have to bend to get it and risk pulling something.

"For someone that knows so much being a miko. You don't know shit." He responded. "How could you not know this place!" He took her hand and pulled her forward an inch. She thought he was helping her to stand but then his other arm came under her and he lifted her completely out of the car like a baby.

"Who is she?"

"Is she your girlfriend?"

"She don't smell like a mate. I know what mates smell like!"

"Inuyasha has a lady friend!"

"Why isn't she walking?"

"What's your name?"

"Is she hurt?"

"I broke my knee caps last spring. Blood was everywhere!"

"Ew!"

"Girls are gross!"

"So are boys!"

"She's so pretty! Are you Inuyasha's friend?"

"She has bony elbows."

"Inuyasha!" She exclaimed from embarrassment as a sea of whispers and "oohs" broke out. Her face grew red as a few began to interrogate him as he closed the door with his foot and bounded around the car with her in his arms. He bounded up the old stone steps as some kids began to follow him like an entourage at a party. Questions and comments continued to follow right behind him. Kikyo did her best to answer some but it seemed to only spur more and more of them. Of course he pushed and wiggled for Inuyasha to put her down but he wasn't having it. She even thought to use her miko power to push her point across but she didn't want to attack him in front of his posse. The last thing she needed was to be assaulted by a sea full of children for attacking their idol.

"Quiet!" Yelled a rather tall young demoness with blue hair. Everyone looked up to see her standing at the top of the steps next to two little kids holding a wooden spoon in her hands. "You know what mother says about hounding folks!" She chastised watching the kids gripe and grown. Many fled the area while some boldly stayed behind to watch what would happen.

"Hey runt!" Inuyasha greeted walking up the rest of the way holding Kikyo tightly in his hold. "Where's Madame Adelaide and Monsieur Hautecourt?" He asked sniffing but finding no scent of them present on the grounds.

"For the last time loser…my name is Asagi!" She yelled indignantly. "AND they both had a meeting in town with the Duchess and Duke of Bourbon and the royal family of Maldonia." She spoke back with a false tone of decency.

"Well I have a friend who is sick and needs ramen." He said with a haughty tone. "So get to it! Maybe I'll even think of tipping you more this time." He said with a grin on his face.

"We don't need your dirty tips around here!" She growled out tapping his chest with her spoon avoiding Kikyo's body. Her green eyes looked down at Kikyo's body as if assessing the situation herself. Two twin boy demons came over with orange and green hair sniffing her. Both nodded at Asagi who sighed heavily. "Your friend does look sick so we'll help her." The girl said. Kikyo opened her mouth to properly introduce herself but was cut off. Asagi waved her spoon towards the house. "Follow me! I have a spot." She shouted before walking away towards the giant red brick mansion.

They walked through the archways listening as Asagi shouted for the other children to go play and enjoy their free time because lessons would start again soon. He carried her around the building and through an entry way that led into the gardens. Kikyo looked around in awe at everything especially the children. Human, demon, and half-demons were all playing, talking, and eating together on the front lawn and at various tables. She heard different dialects and sounds all around her. Adults dressed in blue uniforms were everywhere watching out for them and having fun as well. It was so beautiful to see. They walked until they came to small alcove with an empty table available quite a distance away from others. Men and women were sitting about enjoying tea, soups, fruit pastries, and sandwiches that early morning. Inuyasha sat her down in an empty white tufted chair gently before taking his place in one beside it.

Asagi stood patiently waiting for his order. "Two of the usual!" He ordered.

"You know, you shouldn't order for ladies like that?" Asagi said. A little girl with blue-black hair came over holding menus with a smile. She gave one to Kikyo who looked at the small paper with a growing smile.

"How would you know? You're just a little girl." Inuyasha provoked. "And you're not exactly a lady!"

"I know lots of lady things!" She dignified. "Mother says I'm on my way to being a lovely lady! You however are forever a dense little boy!" Asagi turned to Kikyo now effectively dismissing Inuyasha all together. "What would you like…ummm….?"

"Kikyo." Kikyo said while laughing with humor at Inuyasha's glare. She gave back the small menu to the little one. "I'll have a croquet monsieur and a glass of orange juice." Two other girls came forward with a small plate of fruits and cheeses. Two glasses of water were dropped off by the twin boys.

Asagi nodded before ushering everyone off to the kitchen. Kikyo leaned back in her chair enjoying the nice weather and shade from the wooden gazebo above them. She sat her purse down on the floor and picked a piece of fruit was the bowl with humor still on her face. Inuyasha just got put into place by a thirteen year old demoness. Asagi was going to make a fine young lady at the rate she was going. A hardworking one too. Kikyo looked around at the children and adults waiting tables and talking to all the adults enjoying their meals. "You going to tell me know?" She said tossing a grape in her mouth and looking over at Inuyasha.

Inuyasha smiled watching Asagi run off with her crew with pride before speaking. "Well you know the world isn't too fond of half demons…or half anything really. They get left on doorsteps and hospital wards with no one to claim them. I came across Madame Adelaide you can say by chance. She used to be a famous opera singer and actress that my mother was very fond of. We had learned that in her later years, she had donated her home to all orphans especially half demons that were abandoned. Donations and grants keep the place running. She has side businesses that also help as well especially for the kids supplies and teachers salaries for schooling. Her entire estate will go towards helping children in need. Everything these pups could ever need or want can be found here. They come from all over. I started coming by more and more helping Madame Adelaide with securing kids once I found out about them. It's amazing what she has done." He said looking out at all the happy kids. "She knows them all by their full name and birthday.

"Really!" Kikyo asked shocked while looking around. There looked to be hundreds of them running around and playing. How could she remember them all?

"I watched her name them without looking at a sheet. Here they are protected from the cruel world. She has them from the time they step into her door to the time they leave and go off to do what they want. Some go to school and return as teachers. This…" He said pointing to the small bistro they had running. "This is how they make extra money for fieldtrips and gifts for birthdays and Christmas presents. They do small services and make arts and crafts to sell on market day. Madame Adelaide thinks it's a great way for them to learn about hard work and diligence. I don't think she expected it to be so successful that people actually would leave their jobs to come here."

Kikyo looked around noting how hard working the kids were. They were washing tables with the help of adults and doing their best to make the small little brunch thing work. A few children were playing with their ball happily supervised by the hired staff. They stopped their game to help out just so the other kids would have time to play. Just when she thought her heart couldn't beat, she found it trying to crack the ice that had crept over. "This is beautiful." She muttered ready to put the biggest tip she had ever given right on the table.

"Yeah…" He said leaning back in his chair and looking at the kids run around. He looked over at Kikyo now rethinking his plan to bring her here. He didn't know if she should be around children given her recent…tragedy. He thought it would be good for her to see those doing something good in the world. To give her hope and to lighten the rest of the day since it started with her being in such a foul mood. "Sorry if this is too soon!" He said as his ears lowered down towards his head.

"What?" Kikyo muttered turning her head to look at him with confusion. Slowly his words began to make sense and she waved him off. "Inuyasha its ok." She stated again that morning. She sighed heavily before directing her attention towards him. She waved her hand an erected a barrier so that they could talk in private without sensitive ears picking up on their conversation. "I guess we should have this conversation now to avoid awkwardness later." Kikyo fought the urge to dig for a cigarette so she began to keep her fingers busy in the fruit and cheese bowl. "What is it you want to know?" She asked first so she can access what all he knew either from tales of her sister or the press.

Inuyasha looked out at the archway at a few kids. "Where's the father? How could a man let you go alone like this? I mean…you know…going through this by yourself."

Kikyo chewed her snack slowly before answering his question. She looked at the kids playing around trying not to relive the past especially that day when she found herself at the hospital getting a rape kit and getting pumped with saline to hydrate her body and medicine to detox her system from alcohol poisoning. "There isn't a father. He does not exist." She answered with a cold tone looking at Inuyasha straight in the eyes. "I made a poor decision…well a series of them at one point that may have costed my womb." Kikyo inhaled choosing to tell him versus him finding out in some tabloid or gossip site. "I had a problem. I became an alcoholic. A vicious and mean one. One night, I had too many drinks and something else that was slipped in without my consent apparently by some guy." She said remembering the results that the doctor had given her. "I spent so long trying to hide and protect myself that I failed to watch my medical safety. I was pregnant…" She paused to allow the word to sit on her conscious. "I didn't know it until you took me to the hospital. The doctors said stress, bad habits, and malnutrition had caused my miscarriage of that-that thing." She finished reaching for her glass of water like it was liquor. She needed something to push down her sadness, pain, and remorse.

"Don't call it that!" Inuyasha growled out very upset at her recount of her past. He couldn't believe what he was hearing. Kikyo of all people…had a problem with addiction. He thought of all the times they were around alcohol and he noticed she did not have a drink. It was always juice and water. She was recovering and it all made sense now. Her attitude and behavior could be bipolar at times. Now he understood. He heard seen things back in the day and saw on the news about women who were taken advantage of. No wonder she was frosty and bitter. Inuyasha's anger and aura was swelling having grown angry at the asshole that did this to her. As well as sadness for whatever drove her to the bottle. So many questions filled him at what got her there. Why? What happened? He thought of Kagome and what part she played. He was positive she was involved as well since the two clearly didn't speak until recently. It took a hospital visit for the two to claim each other. What could have torn the two apart? His mind was running a mile a minute. Then she said "it" in reference to her baby that she lost. When her defenses fell in that park…he smelt it.

Death.

She reeked of it. Before he realized it, whines and whimpers had come from his throat as his mind focused on him to save the little life that was suffering. But it was far too late. It had been dead and now that her scent was free from her protective powers he could smell it…sense it. How could she call something that did grow inside of her…an "it". It had life. It was growing. Only things that had life…grew. Only things that had life…died. And the baby inside of her had perished. Inuyasha's eyes had turned pink before he realized it.

"That's all it was!" She responded looking back at him hitting the table getting completely out of character. She prided herself on being in control but lately it seemed as if fate was testing her with knives poking holes in her defense. "It wasn't a baby!" She nearly yelled. Kikyo took in a deep breath to calm herself before finishing taking note of his aura and visual appearance. "I was too sick to even give it a start! It never got a chance to begin with. It was simply a thing." She muttered swallowing her sadness slowly. "Just a thing."

Inuyasha sat still unsure of how to answer or help her. On one end she was wrong but on the other she was right. Now he understood why there was such a big argument over the issue of abortions. But how could you heal and rise after finding out your own body aborted the life inside of you. He had never been in this situation or known anyone that had personally. He had seen plenty of things from his days wondering around Japan searching for ways to improve his strength alongside his brother and many times alone. He met many people and heard many stories along the way from the jolliest of miracles to the most gruesome sights meant for horror tales. But none like this that he knew personally. He was completely in different waters and unsure of how to proceed. Kikyo was strong but she had become…too strong if that was even possible. He felt the need to find all the pelts in the world and give them to her. Now more than ever he knew she did not need to be alone by herself ever again. If he could help it, he would be her friend rather she wanted him or not. He wouldn't allow anything like this to happen again. He wished he knew her before. He would run his claws through the man that did this to her. Hell, he was sure his whole clan would volunteer to help track the man down that did this. Inuyasha closed his eyes and inhaled focusing on the steps he needed to take to calm his fiery temper and anger. The last thing he needed was to slip and transform into a raging beast at a children's orphanage. He leaned back and looked at the blue sky above. He focused on the clouds moving languidly in the sky.

"Thanks."

Inuyasha looked at her with confusion. "Huh?"

"Thanks…" Kikyo repeated feeling oddly at peace for some reason. It was as if she just unlocked something inside of her. Peace filled her despite the sadness and remorse she felt in her heart for what she lost. "Thanks for doing all that you did." She said feeling the fringes of her pride stand on end however.

Inuyasha's ears flickered as he crossed his arms over his chest. "Feh." He responded and nodded his head. His cheeks seemed to be dusted with a light shade of rouge at hearing her gratitude.

Kikyo chuckled at his response and watched his soft triangular ears flicker on his head. "No you took me to the hospital and brought my family to me when I needed them. I never would have guessed you of all people to figure things out. How did you figure it out? Why did you…" She didn't know how to ask the last part unsure if what she was asking anymore.

Inuyasha ran his fingers through his thick silver mane as his thoughts went towards Kagome. "It wasn't hard to do honestly. When I took you to the hospital, your purse was in my car. The doctors couldn't tell me things because we're not related nor are we engaged. They kept stressing how urgent it was and how sick you were." He reminisced hoping to never go through something like that ever again. "They were saying to get your family and I didn't even know you had any. Thankfully, your phone received a text from a name with Kagome. How many people in France has that Japanese name?" He asked smirking at his own resourcefulness and luck. "Her message popped on the screen and she said sis in the text. So I called her and the rest is history." He looked at his claws feeling pride in his Sherlock Holmes skills. "Glad I did too. You scared me for a minute."

Kikyo closed her eyes and took in his words. No one ever said that to her. No one ever cared where she ended up or what became of her. It felt good to hear it. For once someone cared as to what happened to her. Before, she would drink herself into a stupor and hardly remember how she got home. No one called to ask her if she made it or if she was ok. Inuyasha was here now though. He made the call and got her help. He asked about her in the hospital. He didn't want anything from her. He was just there and so annoying about it. Like a rash he just popped up an interfered in her life. But she was happy that he was there this time. She was happy for her hanyou rash she supposed. "I was scared too." She admitted.

"Yeah." Inuyasha muttered looking over at her gentle smile. It was nice to see her this way. He thought about that long night that didn't seem to end. He raced to get Kagome to the hospital to see her. Kagome was a wreck in the car. She mumbled about her fears and things he didn't understand. He found out the two weren't on the best of terms. The fact was supported when Kagome tried to deny on the phone before he could convince her that her sister was here in Paris and in the hospital prepping for emergency surgery because her blood was poisoned from the death she carried in her body that didn't pass. Afterwards, the two reunited and it was a peaceful sight. When the two were together, one would have never thought they weren't on speaking terms. He watched the laugh and hold hands. Their bodies were close and their smiles were genuine. He thought about them apart. For two people that rarely spoke about each other, they were just alike. They were strong and stubborn for sure. Above all the two could be confrontational when they wanted to be. Very confrontational. Inuyasha shook his head before speaking again. "You and Kagome worry so much about other people, you both nearly kill yourselves in the process."

Kikyo smiled in understanding. This wasn't the first time she had heard this. "Momma always said we got that gene from Father." Kikyo looked at the kids playing with a full smile. She watched them laugh and giggle without any care in the world. Madame Adelaide must be a beautiful soul to have put such a love into all these children. "You know…" Kikyo started. "I always have been terrified of having kids. When my father passed, I swore I would never have one. If anything was to happen to me, I couldn't handle the thought on what it would do to my kids." She muttered looking down at herself small belly hidden behind the white scrubs. She looked up at all the kids feeling something change inside of her. She wasn't sure what but something was sizzling now.

Inuyasha shook his head at her morbid thoughts. He wanted a whole tribe of kids if whoever his mate was would allow it. He had a great father and "mothers" that gave everything and then some to them. He had a special bond with his parents that he felt even death couldn't take away. Inuyasha was about to challenge her words when he felt the presence of children approaching. Kikyo took down the barrier and both waited patiently for the group to arrive.

Asagi came out with help from the younger ones carrying glasses of orange juice, plates and bowls with a chaperone standing to make sure they didn't burn themselves and were handling their things properly. They set it all on the table and stood behind Asagi as she crossed her arms over her chest with a smirk. "You're lucky we had this on hand." She said lifting her chin up.

Kikyo looked at the meal finding it quite intricate to be last minute request. They brought two of their requests which was way more than they ordered. Two ramen bowls and sandwiches sat on the table smelling amazingly good. She looked at the ramen with surprise, pleasantly admiring their hard work. It looked exactly as if she was back at home in Japan. She smiled listening now to the two bicker back and forth. She could see beyond their banter, there was a deep fondness the two shared for each other. "This isn't Mcdonalds you know! You can't be showing up making requests!" The young girl yelled waving her wooden spoon around as the other kids rushed inside the mansion.

Inuyasha looked haughtily over at Asagi. "I do whatever I want kid."

Asagi was about to respond back until her name was called. She looked over to the house where she could see the chaperone letting her know she should wash up for her reading lesson. Asagi glared at Inuyasha before she flipped her blue ponytail. "Good luck with the jerk." She said before bowing to Kikyo politely. She made to run off but Kikyo caught her hand. Asagi looked to see Kikyo had shoved a few bills in her hand. She looked at Kikyo with wide eyes ready to shove it back at her but Kikyo wouldn't have it. Asagi didn't like to receive handouts from anyone.

"That's for dealing with this one and his rude attitude." She said motioning at Inuyasha.

"Hey!" Inuyasha yelled gripping his bowl already prepared to swallow it down.

Asagi looked at Inuyasha and then at Kikyo. Asagi slowly smiled and nodded her head. She brushed her shirt off with confidence accepting the cash. "Well someone's got to do it around here!" She said. "Don't forget to sign the book and tell us what you think, okay!"

Kikyo nodded and Asagi bowed her head again before waving her hand in goodbye. "Nice to meet you Madmoiselle Kikyo!" She yelled racing off towards the house doors. "Come back and visit us some time, without the idiot!"

Kikyo held her head to block the smile from Inuyasha's no doubt angry expression. She looked up to see the little girl disappear with a few other kids behind the doors. "She adores you."

"Yeah right!" Inuyasha said after nearly swallowing his whole bowl on an inhale. "She's been riding my ass since I brought her here!"

Kikyo watched in shock as he ate which certainly wasn't a princely sight. She looked at her bowl and sandwich choosing to take small bites. She wasn't sure her stomach was accustomed to eating such heavy foods since she had just come out the hospital. But it smelt so good and delicious she couldn't help herself.

"She wants to cook you know."

Kikyo looked over at him as his bowl was now clean. She balked for a bit before looking at him sit back satiated. "She made this ramen." Inuyasha explained pointing to her bowl. "She's really good and fast at cooking. Madame Adelaide said she has a real talent for cooking."

Kikyo smiled looking down at her food. Not only were the kids waiting tables but they were cooking too. Despite the way they had to come into this world. They sure were blessed with more opportunities than most kids. She wondered what else they learned and explored while living on the property. "We should bring Kagome and her people here one day." Kikyo said with a smile watching his ears twitch and the smile vanish from his face. "She always liked teaching others the basics in a kitchen. She would really like to help out."

Inuyasha crossed his arms over his chest. "Sure…." He mumbled and looked away feeling embarrassed for some reason. He looked down at the sandwich not sure if he was inclined to eat anymore. "Like I would want her here…"

Kikyo sighed knowing where this was going. She made a mess of things and she knew she had to clean it up. "Inuyasha…let me stop you right there." She cut in pushing her bowl to the side.

"Stop me?" He asked with an uncaring tone in his voice.

"I know you like Kagome." She saw him open his mouth to talk back but she silenced him with her hand over his mouth to keep him quiet. She held it there while finishing her sentence. "We were laughing about Sesshomaru's pelt and making jokes. I put the pelt on her shoulders, not Sesshomaru. He gave it to me like you did to show comfort but that was all. He has no claim on her." She spoke quickly hearing his muttering die down. She slowly took her hand off his lips allowing him to speak.

"Feh." He tossed her. "Whatever. I don't know what gave you that idea that I liked her anyway."

Kikyo could see his cheeks light up having been caught red handed. She reached up and pulled on his ears tweaking them harshly so he would just come clean already. She completely gave up her master plan to put her sister with Sesshomaru. He could at least just be honest about the whole thing. "Stop lying to yourself. It's all over you! I use to be Grand Priestess of the Youkai Council ." She explained. "You like my sister very much. Now own it!" She said letting go as he rubbed his ears from her abuse.

"What? You…Grand Priestess?" He laughed watching her expression look at him without humor. "Damn." He said as his smile began to fade. The weight and seriousness set in at what she was admitting. The Youkai Council was nothing to laugh about or lie about. They were involved in international predicaments that worked for the good of the youkai race while trying to maintain healthy relationships with humans to avoid massive wars and riots. They even at times worked with many civil rights groups to help keep the peace among everyone. Only until recently did things sort of calm down and demon and human relations were peaceful. "Is there anything else I should know! Are you mated to the King of Spain!"

Kikyo rolled her eyes at his dramatic outburst and shook her head. "You're deflecting the conversation. Besides, I studied pack behaviors and know how much the passing of a pelt can symbolize many grand gestures and feelings. I unfortunately forgot in my…previous state of that meaning. However watching your behavior quickly reminded me. You stormed off when you saw your brother's pelt on my sister. So that means you care to some degree. Besides, you almost hurt my sister's feelings not responding to her like that and walking away."

"Whatever." He mumbled watching the steam rise from her food stood. He picked up the sandwich and chose to eat to avoid his mouth getting him into a situation his behind couldn't get him out of.

"Don't whatever me!" She responded watching his stuff his face. "Fine. It's no business of mine. If you want to tell me then I'll help you. If you don't, I'll never bring it up with you ever again. She does need to date though. It could really do her some good." She said putting the ball in his court but backing him into a corner. If he said yes, so what his pride would suffer an inch but he would gain support. If he said no then she would push onwards with her original plans. Kikyo smirked knowing she was going to bait him. "I'm blowing this all out of proportion. Maybe you have a nice friend you can introduce her to. I'm sure that will be great."

"NO!" He sputtered before mumbling to himself about how horrible her ideas were. His glare was intense that reminded her so much of his father when he was angry. It was scary indeed and she did lean away slightly. Inuyasha chewed his food roughly. He didn't know how to respond to her statement. He didn't even know where he stood on the whole thing. He didn't even know what to say. How could she know how he felt when he could barely put his own puzzle pieces together? Frustratingly he shook his head and growled at her. "You're doing this on purpose." He said flipping the tables back on her.

Kikyo almost face palmed herself but instead feigned shocked. "I don't know what you're talking about." She finished watching his calculating expression that she knew was no match for hers. She used the pause to take a step back and reassess the situation. It was clear now more than ever Inuyasha was…confused. Of course he would be. His brother was emotionally constipated after all. It would figure Inuyasha's ability to ascertain his own emotions would be as difficult as nailing jelly to a tree. It seemed she may have reached the conclusion but he was still very much lost. "I'll buy it this time that you don't know how you feel but…just a heads up…time waits for no one."

Inuyasha frowned at this. "What's that supposed to mean?" He asked.

"It means…that you never know who else is looking at the catch of the day and wants to order." She said watching his face turn into a variety of expressions. She knew she had him now. He could say that he didn't know but he did. He had some idea of his feelings. Maybe he was still sorting out what he should do but she could see the interest and slight fear of losing on his face.

"All of that was you?" He asked feigning indifference. "I thought Sesshomaru was trying to get with Kagome this whole time. I mean it makes sense with him not liking Kaguya and everything." He said being nonchalant about it. But Kikyo knew better.

"Yep that was my fault." Kikyo stated owning up to her mistake and hoping he would just chug along. "If it helps, Sesshomaru is trying to get out of his engagement but NOT because he's attracted to Kagome." Kikyo said hoping that wasn't the case. She pushed it aside to ponder later. "Kaguya has him in a bind somehow and I've been tasked to figure out why and how."

"Really? You? Who tasked you?" Inuyasha asked.

"Sesshomaru of course." Kikyo responded watching the shock play on Inuyasha's face.

"What the fuck?" He said forgetting his surroundings. He couldn't fathom his brother would task someone to go digging in his affairs. "Why? Why you?"

Kikyo had thought about this. "He needs my help somewhere in this equation but I haven't figured out where just yet. I'm sure it has something to do with my previous status on the council which is active again as filed my documents to serve. Maybe he needs a signature or vote on something that's keeping him tied to Kaguya or maybe he wants something she has and needs insurance. I haven't been able to make a call to find out anything. But I have found out if he gets with her your family and hers gain exceptionally a lot of power and prestige. However, it doesn't seem he wants it. He's fighting it. I mean he's dragging this engagement out after all."

Inuyasha nodded at this. They had not one time heard any news of a wedding or seen an invitation. Sesshomaru was always…working or seeing to a matter of importance that took him away from Asia. He had a hard time to wrap his mind around Sesshomaru in a bind. His brother rarely got into situations if at all. Every time the subject of Kaguya was brought up Sesshomaru would defend her but in a roundabout way insulting her in the same breath. It was confusing but it made sense that he was doing it all for duty and tradition which is what his sire had expressed.

It was the only explanation about Sesshomaru's choice that made sense. Sesshomaru certainly didn't love or show he was interested in mating the broad. He didn't look at her like his parents looked at each other or even how Inutashio regraded Inukimi at times with words of affection and respect. He looked at her as if she was a mosquito he was forced to acknowledge with annoyance. Inuyasha instinctually felt it was something much more complicated than that but if his brother wanted to keep it a secret then it wasn't any of his business. "I thought he was doing it for duty at least. It does explain a lot though. I mean he hasn't killed Kaguya yet or done anything to get rid of her. I thought she would have died from poisoning by now at least." He said in deep thought.

Kikyo laughed at this notion. Surely, Sesshomaru's patience was one of fairytales. But who would have thought his own family doubted his control and restraint against an annoying woman. "I thought so too. I mean I've seen him deal with people…" She said with wide eyes knowing exactly how ruthless Sesshomaru could be. "But…he's being really…restrained in this situation. I mean she's using his name and doing things behind his back. She's a manipulative demoness who is known to have zero respect for anyone outside of pure demon bloodlines."

Inuyasha's ears flattened on his head at this. He had heard the same but Kaguya didn't say anything to him or do anything to support the fact. But of course, he never was in the same space long enough with her to find out. She never went out to dinner with them as a group and he had no reason to be around her. He hadn't felt bad about his mixed blood since he was young roaming the countryside where he experienced the hate for his kind despite his royal heritage. It certainly didn't go away even during these times. It was just better hidden behind jokes and social media. He knew she wouldn't say anything around his brother if it was true what Kikyo was saying. His brother was a portentous jackass at times but he was always defensive when it came to pack. Regardless he wouldn't let some demoness tell him his worth. "Well I don't have to like her. She's going to be his mate so there's that. Besides, it's none of my business what he does and who he does it with." Inuyasha said reaching for the rest of his sandwich to eat.

"Oh no you don't." Kikyo said moving the plate out the way. "You're going to help me." She said getting an idea.

"Why should I do that? Why are you even helping him?" He asked eyeing her distrustfully while fighting to reach his sandwich. She moved it away so he instead reached for her abandoned one.

Kikyo rolled her eyes and gave him her sandwich. She watched as he moved her food in front of her face after realizing that she barely ate anything. "Leverage…for a rainy day." She told him honestly watching the soup bowl she abandoned get pushed into her line of sight. They had come this far in their friendship. She supposed she wouldn't hide or beat around the bush now. "Besides, you should help him. He is your brother after all. I'm surprised he hasn't told you anything."

"Yeah he's my pack but he doesn't like it when people get in his business. Nobody knows what's really going on in his thick head. Sesshomaru hates it when we get involved in his affairs. He stopped speaking to our Alpha for fifty years straight the last time she got involved with some princess named Sara way back in the day." He said shivering from the deathly tale.

"All that doesn't matter now." Kikyo said waving his concern away. "You want to see him happy and I was given permission to engage in his affairs by Sesshomaru himself. So by Rules of Association, I'm enlisting you in this endeavor…Best Friend." She enunciated every syllable while patting him on the back slowly so he got the point. "He said for me to keep digging and I intend on doing so."

"Alright, alright! I hear ya!" He mumbled watching her lean back triumphantly in her chair. "But if he comes asking…you leave my name out of it!" He pointedly expressed.

Kikyo raised her hand and vowed to secrecy. "I promise I will not throw you under the bus." She promised. "All I need for you to do is to inquire about any recent dealings between your family and hers property wise. Call the council and just casually inquire the courts system about the estate. You have a claim to it after all so they will tell you." She said pulling out her phone and quickly looking up the number.

Inuyasha reached over and put his hand on her phone. He took it away causing her to reach out and take it back. Inuyasha pushed her bowl closer in front of her with his other hand. Kikyo looked down at her ramen and sandwich with disinterest. Inuyasha growled and yelled at her. "Eat before you pass out again!" He yelled as she glared at him. He smug pushed her phone away and reached for his own. "I'll make the phone calls."

Kikyo watched him dial a number and she went into eating slowly her food. Kikyo smiled and ate in silence listening and watching as more children came out and waved at them going back into the building. Some were replacing their classmates and others were heading out with their teachers to have classes outside on the green lawn. Some kids ran through the small eating area greeting patrons new and returning. A little girl ran up to Inuyasha surprising him and hugged him around his middle. He smiled and listened to his phone call prompting his to press numbers. He gave her the rest of his sandwich which she happily took and ran off munching on it. Kikyo smiled and watched as two other kids looked at her with curiosity before following after the little girl with envious eyes. Both of them looked at her. Kikyo looked at her barely touched sandwich before reaching for a butter knife. She carefully cut her bite pieces off before cutting the sandwich in half. She placed the knife on the table and held both pieces up. One came up slowly before the other followed seeing if it was safe. She patiently waited until they reached her. She handed them both their separate halves and watched as their faces lit up. Immediately, they bit into it and smiles were all around. A whistle was heard and they quickly hugged her around the middle jarring her quite a bit from the contact. "Oh!" She exclaimed watching as they laughed and ran off. She smiled after them before continuing on with her soup. Many thoughts ran through her head until she got an idea.

Kikyo reached down and dug into her purse with excitement. She took out her cigerettes and placed her bag back to the side of her. Her hands shook a little as they began to glow a light blue in color. She reached for the pack and held it in her hands. Inuyasha blinked watching her with curiosity to see what she was up to. He could feel her reiki rise and the hairs on his arm began to stand as instinct pushed inside of him to move away from her. He leaned a little back in his chair while vaguely listening to the voice on the other end of the phone. The pack in her hand immediately began to ignite in blue flames before combusting blue sparkly particles that drifted into the air.

Kikyo smiled seeing it gone and she leaned back in her chair satisfied. She didn't know what it was that overcame her but it felt good. She got a sense of satisfaction and looked down at her bowl with confidence. She picked up her spoon and began eating again before looking at a shocked yet pleasantly surprised Inuyasha.

"Hello, Mr. Tashio?" Spoke someone on the other line.

Kikyo laughed as he quickly shook his head and went to leave to have the conversation in private. She took a spoonful of her soup and hummed at its delicious taste. She applauded Inuyasha in her mind. This was a great idea. It seemed Inuyasha just so happened to be full of them.

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