Summary: Her life was great. She lived a life of happiness and prosperity with her family and friends. She had her beauty, she had intelligence, and she had what she needed. 'Nothing' she thought. 'Nothing could ruin this…ever'. Until one day her life changed forever. Sold to life in a brothel from the dept of money owed, Kagome was a prisoner to a life of a prostitute. Paid for the pleasures for men, mo matter what or how she was treated, she closed her heart; can a certain sliver haired man change that?
DG: Uughh what a week.
Kag: I'll say…you hardly kept your promise!
DG: Give me a break will ya? I had an exhausting week.
Kag: Penny for your thoughts?
Sess: She ain't that cheap, unlike certain people I know.
Kag: scowl:
DG: Would you believe after Red Wine's third year anniversary that it would be my three years aging as well?
Kag: Weellll…you did start this story around that time…: GASP: It's already that time of the year!!
DG: Ah yes, I started this story at age thirteen and now I'm sixteen. How time goes by…
Kag: I wouldn't believe it
DG: Yup, so yea; I celebrated my sweet sixteen more than a week ago, went to New York the next day and watched Rent with family and Mizzy, and then the rest of the week was dedicated to loads of outgoings from movies to sushi and reading summer books to playing Final Fantasy VII Crisis Core. : Grins: I love this game.
Sess: Fascinating, she summed up her whole life in less than three sentences.
DG: scoff: You're just jealous because I was spending time with Sephiroth. : Cackle: Ahhh that sexy beast….and he has a long sword too. : Wink:
Kag: Oh kami, and Zack! That hottie!! Don't forget him too!!
DG: Mmmmhmm!!
Sess: zooms in to Sess: Due to technical difficulties on the behalf of the authoress' rambling, we're just going to bleep out whatever she and her moronic muse has to say and continue the story.
DG/Kag: AWWW!! He's jeal-BLEEEEEEP.
Disclaimer: I own only the plot and a few made up characters. Inuyasha solely belongs to Rumiko Takahashi. Also, those who are easily offended by explicit mature content are advised NOT to read. Thank you.
Red Wine
Chapter 8
Free from the Prison of Lust I
Five pairs of shocked and dilated eyes followed the stolid and composed form of their unexpected visitor, until he seated himself comfortably, at the player's playing table. The standing men continued to gawk at the young man that sat on the tatami flooring, leaning back casually on his left arm that was supporting his weight behind him and drummed his fingers on the low table. His fingers inches away from the sack of glittering, motionless, round coins as he then tilted his head up to them and quirked his eyebrow at his audience.
Ryuura was the first to break out of his surprised reverie, as he then coughed gently into his fisted hand and placed a grin on his face. He then seated himself on the opposite side of the player and placed his elbows on top of the table, folding his hands as he cushioned his chin above them. His azure eyes peering into the glowing golden irises of the man oppose him.
"This makes it your third visit for the week Sesshomaru. I'm surprised, are you finally giving in and becoming a frequent customer?" he sneered.
Sesshomaru scoffed as he peered over the Kami leader's head over to his underling brothers, who stared at him suspiciously. Yet, one member paid special attentive to the Western lands lord, glaring at him secretly of his motives for being here. Sesshomaru had caught his look, but ignored him as he then switched to the other members in silence, before he responded.
"This shall be my last. Don't get your hopes up."
Ryuura chuckled as he then glanced down from the Western lord's eyes to the forgotten sack of money. His eyes shifted up to see Sesshomaru staring at him once more.
"You're a mysterious one Sesshomaru." Ryuura chuckled, unfolding his hands and placing his hands on the table as he titled his head back, "First you come here wanting to drink and see my whores on your own will and now you wish to gamble?"
Sesshomaru didn't respond as he continued to stare coolly and stolidly at the Yakuza leader. Ryuura smirked as he then peered over his shoulders to his brothers.
"What do you think boys? Should we allow this intruder to play?"
"I say lets."
All eyes turned to the new speaker, the speaker being the third brother, as he then walked forward with his arms crossed. His ruby red eyes leered at Sesshomaru as he licked his lips. Sesshomaru fought the urge to shudder in disgust. He had heard a snicker just then and didn't need to turn his head to know who it belonged to.
Kyoura, on the other hand, then bent over and snatched the sack of gold from the table. He tossed the sack up in the air and caught it with his hand a few times before he glanced over to Ryuura and said.
"1.5 grams. Pure gold."
Ryuura's eyes returned to Sesshomaru as he then smiled coyly, "Alright Sesshomaru, since you're the honored guest, you pick the game."
It was Sesshomaru's turn to smile as he then leaned forward, imitating Ryuura's earlier gesture as he leaned on his folded hands as he then answered.
"One on one. Cho-han bakuchi."
SKSKSK
Falling back into the floor, Kagome sighed, both in relief and in dejection. She turned her head to the side to look at the clouded sky; her moon was waning into the darkness, behind the clouds. She often compared herself to the glowing moon. At one moment her strong will would be growing stronger and stronger each day, waiting for the day for her freedom would come; the next her hope and determination would wilt and wane until she was hopeless and desperate. Just like today, her hopes were shattered after her aftermath with Kouga, but it was then repaired after her talk with Kagura.
Kagome's eyes clouded and began to blur with fresh new tears. Her head was so confused. Though she knew she shouldn't give up hope and should put more faith on those she love, yet she couldn't help but feel helpless and scared at the same time. The doubts continued to haunt her while she was awake and even worse when she slept. The memories and thoughts of her family and friends doing nothing as they took her away continued to play in her mind. Every time she tried reaching out to them, they just grew farther and farther away from her every passing day she spent in her prison, wondering if they'll ever rescue her or if she'll ever be free again.
But then Kagura's words then lightened her spirits, knowing that she couldn't give up now. If she were to give up, she would just end up like Kagura. And she knew better than to lose faith on those she loved and cherished.
Kagome shifted away from the window, puffing her cheeks as sleep wouldn't come to her. She just wished someone would give her a sign that she wasn't waiting in vain.
Just then, her eyes caught sight on a dark motionless object just opposite of her. Her eyes narrowed when she then remembered she never returned Serina's book back to her. Kagome pushed herself off the ground and crawled over to the rectangular object and lifted it from its hiding place. She scowled to herself as she scrunched her eyes. She couldn't read this in the dark.
Groaning, she struggled to stand up and slowly walked over to her only source of light. She shivered a bit and sat underneath her window that gave little lighting to her. She then sighed as she opened the book on her lap, pushed her falling strands behind her ear, and began to read.
Behold the Darkness
Foolishly running blindly
One seeks for guidance
Kagome's eyes widened at the power of mere words that can impact the reader, especially to those who can relate. Why didn't she notice this before? She then quickly scanned the next pages for more of these powerful haiku.
Unexpected twist
One's Happiness is today
The next is Sorrow
--
Broken easily
But never torn Forever
Thus given name Hope
--
Pleasure known as Lust
Feeling so strong, but Never
Triumphs feeling Love
--
Fallen but not Broke
Helpless but One's still Hopeful
There is always 'Morrow…
Kagome's face was in a daze as she then closed the book. Her eyes glazed over as she then bent over, covered her face and wept.
As she continued to cry into her hands, she never noticed another presence in the room, nor the fact someone was embracing her, as she then cried into their arms.
SKSKSK
Ryuura narrowed his eyes at Sesshomaru. He didn't like the confident and arrogant aura he was giving off. He hated those kinds of guys, feeling as if they already had the game in the palm of their hands already. Ryuura then smirked as he then lifted his left hand up. But it always afterwards he loved the best, when he wiped those proud smirks off their faces when they had lost and were in debt.
Juura then placed the 2 six-sided dice into his elder brother's hand before he stood behind him once more, crossing his arms as if he were his bodyguard. Ryuura then raised his other hand and waved to one of his brothers.
"Gomen nasai, I don't have a dealer. One of you, go fetch Yura-"
"No need for that Ryuura. Why bother the hime when she needs her beauty sleep?" purred sarcastically a feminine voice.
The young woman walked into the room, her arms crossed under her chest as she swayed past the lustful looks the brothers were giving her. She then seated herself in between the two players, both staring at her. One was giving her a placid look that seemed like he knew her, while the other gave her an irritated look before turning away.
"I need someone with-"
"I've worked in underground yakuza gambling hideouts for money before I came here." Kagura then removed the right arm of her yukata, revealing wrapped bandages over her chest, "Is that enough experience?" she innocently asked.
Sesshomaru silently praised the onna for her defiant behavior toward the arrogant Yakuza before turning to glance on how the Kami leader was taking this. As expected, he was completely aggravated at the turn of events before he reluctantly gave in.
Juura gave Kagura a grave look, before he noticed Kagura was returning a victorious smile over to him in a mocking manner. Juura sneered as he then tossed her the bamboo dice bowl rather clumsily. But Kagura didn't complain as she showed off her skills.
She quickly took the two six-sided dice from the table that Ryuura had subconsciously placed on and tossed the two dice in the air. All the men, except Sesshomaru, who was keeping his eye on Ryuura, looked up at the dice that was rolling in the air. Kagura's eyes glanced from Sesshomaru and Ryuura before smirking as she then snatched the bamboo bowl that was in mid-flight rapidly, swiping the falling dice before it could land, and slammed the bowl on the ground, covering the results from sight. Everyone's eyes were wide in amazement of the quickness and stealth done by the onna before they returned their attentions back to the players.
A pair of golden eyes that had been attentive since Sesshomaru's arrival grew more suspicious as the relaxed Western Lord then requested.
"How about we bet a bit higher Raimeikaze?"
Ryuura's eyes had widened a second before they narrowed dangerously, his suspicions of him coming here confirmed.
"Very well, Sesshomaru. You carry a hefty sum here; I figured you wouldn't leave here with money in mind."
Sesshomaru's golden amber eyes glimmered in mischief. He glanced for a second at Kagura, who seemed to understand his motive as she smiled slyly, looking down at the bowl; before he quirked his eyebrows.
"If you win, I'll give you my lands."
Eyes widened at the very high stakes Sesshomaru had just placed himself in. The Western Lands of Japan were the only lands that Ryuura had no connections with, because of his ownership and strict holdings on the land. Ryuura's eyes were burning in determination now at the chances of winning that whole land. The boys were thinking this too, but none had the attentions of the possibilities of Ryuura losing, his luck was too strong. But one member was more cautious and meticulous about the deal, so he asked.
"And if you win?"
Sesshomaru, for the first time, met his golden amber with similar honey gold irises. The opposing figure stood stiffly with his arms crossed, as he narrowed his eyes dangerous at the man for making such a high bet.
Kagura, who was silent the whole time, grinned when he then replied.
"I get the freedom on one of your women by my choice, of course."
Ryuura's face had gone from pure happiness to paleness by one sentence. And he knew who he would pick; Yura was screeching and complaining about her affair with him. His teeth grinded together slowly, at the temptation that was held before him. Here was his chance of achieving the lands he so desire for many years, but at the same time he would lose his high seller. Kouga wasn't paying cheap to keep her his and his alone. But this was his only chance. He scowled as he knew his luck never failed him and never lost a match. His spirits burned in high-spirit as he slammed his fist on the table.
"Han!"
Sesshomaru's eyes twinkled as he replied "Cho."
Kagura then lifted the bowl and revealed the results.
SKSKSK
Kagome had cried for kami knows how long, before she began to be lulled to sleep. The warm, strong embrace made her feel protected and safe. Knowing she was in good hands, she smiled as she then mumbled 'Arigatou….Sesshomaru' before she drifted off to slumber.
SKSKSK
Sweet melodious song birds began to chirp their morning greetings to each other as the sun began to rise. The warm sun ascended to the sky giving off its morning rays to all it could reach.
One of these rays emitted inside the open window, shining upon the dark mass of midnight tresses. The youthful owner groaned as she felt the bright rays trying to silently wake her from her slumber. She grumbled incoherent words as she turned her head and buried her head further into the soft, warm, and comfy cushions she laid upon. Humming in delight, she couldn't remember the last time she had such a peaceful rest. Still not opening her eyes, she tried to go resume her sleep incase this was another dream of hers, when really was still in the brothel asleep on those cold hard floorings. She did not wish to wake just yet.
Just as she was successful in falling into a light nap, a delight scent wafted into the room. Half-waking the young girl, she subconsciously got up from her bedding, slowly walking out of the room, following her nose to where that delectable morsel scent came from.
Coming to where the scent was the strongest, she moaned in delight as she slept walk over to the tempting rations, she breathed heavily and deeply, as if to memorize the smell. She then heard a baritone hum noise that sounded like a chuckle behind her. She blurted out without thinking.
"If I'm dreaming, please don't wake me."
The laughter grew louder as she then felt pressure on her shoulder, pushing her down. She allowed the pressure on her shoulders to let her descend to the ground, where she was then seated on a soft cushion. The food before her remained where it is, while the scent continued to drift to her nose. Kagome smiled in delight.
"If you don't eat it now, it's going to get cold, Kagome."
Kagome just hummed in response as she drowsily continued to smile, bobbing her head left and right as if she was in a daze. She heard the chuckle again and she smiled brighter. She was growing fonder of that sound, it sounded like a low rumble in the sky that indicated a thunderstorm or the ocean sea pounding against the shore. She then heard a ruffle noises and then a presence next to her. The smell became stronger as if it were just in her face.
"Say ah."
Kagome giggled as she opened her mouth and did what he said, before her mouth was filled with sweet juicy texture and flavors.
This was too good to be simply a dream; too good to be true. She just had a wondrous sleep with no disturbance, on a futon that was the softest thing she ever laid upon and a delicious meal to boot, could things get any better? She slowly began to wake as she opened her eyes, her eyes fluttering to adjust to the lighting around her. Once she was awake, she had to blink several times just to make sure she was really awake. She even pinched herself, as the guy she was growing fonder of, was basically sitting on his low table, legs crossed, holding a bowl with Tamagoyaki and steamed rice with natto beside him in another bowl. He was practically feeding her breakfast. Now she really knew she was dreaming.
Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow at her before rolling his eyes and placing the bowl with Tamagoyaki back on the table. He sighed as he got up from where he sat, walked over to the shoji door that connected to the next room and departed inside. Kagome looked down once more, then around the nicely furnished dining room, and then back down; before she slapped herself on the cheek, hard. She yelped when she felt the stinging being to swell on her cheek, where she inflicted pain. She whimpered before she heard the shoji doors open once more, revealing the tall silver haired, young man, carrying a plate with two steaming cups. Placing the cups down on the table, he then kneeled down to her and narrowed his eyes at her from her newly added bruise. He sighed, shaking his head as he lifted his hand and began to caress her cheek.
"No, you're not dreaming. I believe you're fully awake now. So, if you can, please retain hurting yourself in my home."
Kagome blinked, tilting her head like an innocent naïve child as she then answered, "Huh?"
Sesshomaru scowled, "Have you finally lost it? Or are you still sleeping?" he then lifted his hand that was on her cheek and softly flicked her forehead.
Kagome pouted as he then stood up and went around the table to sit across from her. He then took his cup of tea and began to drink.
Kagome then replied hotly, "I've probably did lose my mind if I'm not asleep still, because as far as I know, I was still in that stupid brothel-" Kagome looked down and noticed that she had a new clean yukata on and it didn't show any of her assets, this sighed in relief.
She looked back up at Sesshomaru and it was her turn to raise an eyebrow, "-And I ended up here….what did you do?"
Sesshomaru just shrugged his shoulders, "I won you in a bet." He said casually like it was a common thing to do.
Kagome's eye twitch as then stood up, banging the palm of her hands on the table, making the items on the table shake, as she exclaimed, "Nani?! So you just thought you could walk up in that brothel, throw down a few coins, and win me just like that?!"
Sesshomaru continued to sip his tea, unaffected by her outrage spur as he answered, "Hai. Actually, that's what I did."
Kagome gritted her teeth as she then shouted, "So now what? You own me now?! Do I have to satisfy your every damn urges?!"
"Iie, you're free to go when ever you want. I only requested for your freedom that is all. And don't worry about your otou-san's debt, it's taken cared of."
Kagome froze right there. He did what?
She stood up, arms to her side, as she stared long and hard at him. The long silver haired man quietly sipped his tea in silence as Kagome, still not believing that he would do this for her. So she stupidly asked in reassurance.
"You did this….for me?"
"Apparently, if you're here." He sarcastically remarked.
Kagome's anger rose once more, "Dooshite? There are other onna in there that has spent years in that place! Why me?!"
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes at her and replied coldly, "Would you like me to take you back and exchange you for someone else?"
"Iie! I-"
She was speechless. Here she should be grateful and in this man's debt for freeing her from that prison, but she was getting aggravated and annoyed than ever that she was simply freed by being gambled as an object, when that was what got her there in the first place and that others have spent years trying to escape. Nothing could be this simple.
Kagome's shoulders fell in dejection and she slowly descended back into her cushion. She looked around at the luxurious place she was at and the food she was eating, and still she couldn't accept it. Her eyes stayed on her growing cold food before she slowly peered up to the young man that just saved her life, who was looking off out into the window at the side.
She then mumbled something that Sesshomaru couldn't quite hear, but enough to know she was trying to say something.
"Nani?"
Kagome sighed as she then repeated, "Gomen nasai…I know you mean well and I appreciate and am deeply in your debt. It's just…I don't know….I guess I'm still sore that otou-san had gambled me off like I'm just some prize and then you do it…I'm not a mere object that people can just possess and own." She bit her lip, trying to hold back the tears.
Sesshomaru had been looking off outside, trying to regain his cool. But after hearing her explanation, he began to calm down somewhat. He turned back to the young girl and sighed.
"Forgive me, if there was another way, I would've done it."
Kagome's eyes widened and brightened as she looked up at him grinning, "Hontou ni?"
Sesshomaru shrugged his shoulders before tilting his chin to her food, indicating her to eat. Kagome then heard her stomach beginning to rumble and she blushed. She then picked up her chopsticks and bowed her head as she muttered tadakimasu, before she began to quickly eat her food.
Sesshomaru inwardly chuckled at the days that lie ahead of him.
SKSKSK
A cheerful whistle tune was emanated into the chattering morning air, as a high-spirited juvenile man walked through the crowding village, to the familiar path that lead him to his frequent destination. It is that destination where he expected to see and mess with his favorite whore, oblivious to what had occurred just last night.
A young man wearing a bright red haori and black hakama with unruly silver hair floating gently behind him, had just left the building he was just in. He stopped where he stood and leaned back on the building, crossing his arms when his eye caught sight of a familiar face in the crowd, heading his way. Honey gold eyes narrowed as his lips lifted up to a smirk, as the man then approached him. Still smiling the young man then said.
"Here for the usual Kouga?"
Kouga rolled his eyes as he stopped before his acquaintance, "What do you think pup? Don't you have something else to do? Like roll over and play dead perhaps?" he scorned.
Inuyasha shrugged his shoulders lightly on the supposed insult as he pushed off against the wall and began to walk away, "Actually I do. But just a word of advice, you're going to need a new usual." He jeered as he raised his hand and departed.
Kouga didn't know what Inuyasha meant by what he just said, but he decided to brush it aside as he was just messing with him. Still whistling, he slid the doors open and skipped a step as he happily jumped inside the brothel, stretching his arm as he closed the shoji doors behind him. The onna that were in the occupied room were just beginning to settle down for today's business. Some even turned to watch the oblivious man dance into the room, as blissful as a child with a new toy. Others muttered to each other; while a certain few, more like one onna, smiled evilly next to her albino imotou as she had just filled in the latest news to her. She excused herself as she went to sit next to other prostitutes, mingling with a friendly chat just to get closer, so she could hear how the Ookami took the news.
Still making small talk, the ruby eyed onna continued to glance over to Ookami, who was at the moment, scanning the room for his woman. His cheery whistling came to a stop as his first reaction started to kick in. His eyes furrowed as he didn't find his onna goddess among the group, so he then turned to look for Ryuura for an explanation.
Hushing the chattering onna that were talking to her, she inclined her head to Ookami, who had just found Ryuura. The Kami leader had a grave face as he looked away from his friend to the onna, his azure irises meeting ruby red. She gave him a victorious smile when the look on his face grew darker. Turning away as Kouga then continued to persist his questioning, Ryuura placed an arm around Kouga and tried convincing him of the other onna that he had. Kagura's smile grew broader and wider as Kouga's suspicions were heightened and his anger began to grow. Pushing his arm away from him, Kouga was now complaining that his woman was the only girl he wanted and he paid good money to keep her his. He began to demand for her company, threatening that he'll take his business elsewhere, before Ryuura grew aggravated at the end.
Kagura counted down silently in her head as Kouga's loud raucous and commotion was muted for a minute as Ryuura then muttered quietly to him.
Go.
"Kouga…"
Shi.
"Don't take this the hard way, I appreciate your business and as my friend, I thank you…"
San.
"What are you trying to say Ryuura? Spill it!"
Ni.
"She's gone."
Ichi.
Kouga was silent for a good second, before his eyes began to dilate and anger began to swell in him to the point he couldn't hold it back anymore. Kagura leaned back on the low table as she slowly sipped her morning tea, many pairs of eyes turning to Kouga as he then exploded.
"GONE?! How can she be gone?! Did you and your fucking asshole brothers screw up?! Go find her! Do whatever is possible to get her back, now!"
Ryuura's eyes burned in fiery as he then retorted, "I can't. She's been sold off."
This sentence just heightened and fueled Kouga's anger as he exclaimed, "You fucking asshole! How can she be sold off when I pay you triple the amount than that bitch is worth?! You got to be fucking shitting me! When did this happen? Get her back, I'll pay twice that amount that teme paid!"
Ryuura exhaled slowly as he propped his left elbow over his right arm, his left hand massaging his forehead as he then answered, "I just told you I can't. I lost her yesterday-"
Kouga's teeth bore as he growled at the man, leader of the Yakuza or not, he was going to get answers from this bastard if it was the last thing he did. Then suddenly, Inuyasha's words earlier began to repeat in his head. '…you're going to need a new usual.' His eyes widened as realization hit him when he remembered what yesterday was. Kouga was beyond mad now as he dared to grab Ryuura's kimono by the cuff and pulled him close, snarling in his face as he hissed.
"You…lost…my…Kagome…in…a….bet??"
Ryuura sighed heavily as a migraine started to beat against his head. This day was just getting worse by the second. He then glared back into Kouga's dark brown heated eyes as he snapped hotly.
"Maybe I did… what are you going to do about it?" his narrowed eyes challenged as seven familiar men then came around the two.
Kouga's grip continued to hold tight as he glanced to the side, a burly man young man bearing a large Banryū halberd sword behind him, his neck cracked as he twisted it to the side, his braided hair swinging with each twist. He then glanced to the other side and caught a glimpse of a more feminine man in a green yukata, his left hand on his waist while his other tightened his grip on his unique, retractable, curved sword that was held over his shoulder. He tilted his head and winked his green eye-shadowed eyelid at him. Kouga scowled as he then turned back to Ryuura, ignoring the other five men that were surrounding the two in a small circle. His eyes narrowed to slits as Ryuura gave him a look daring him to hurt him. Kouga didn't release him, but his temper lowered down a bit as he growled.
"At least tell me…who has her."
Ryuura raised an eyebrow as he curtly replied, "Tashio, Sesshomaru."
SKSKSK
After eating breakfast, Sesshomaru had excused himself, saying he had business to attend to. But before he left, he gave Kagome permission to do as she wished while he was out, besides cause trouble for him. Kagome answered in affirmative and began to wonder around the Western Lord's castle.
The building was certainly larger and bigger than hers, and definitely more stylish. She couldn't help but keep awing at the foreign items that came from the West. These items being, many hand stitched rugs, very fine porcelain, odd but impressing artistic paintings and sculptures. Other items were imported exotic flowers and trinkets from perhaps all the way from China. Yet, the castle remained traditional like as well, from the use of shoji doors, tatami flooring, beautiful koi pond scenery in the back, and more. Her eyes widened in delight when she came to the dojo.
The walls were equipped with many kinds of swords, varying from kendo bamboo swords, wooden swords, and sharp steal swords that also vary from longs swords such as jin tachi, ōdachi, nodachi, tachi, chisakatana, and wakizashi; to short swords such as tanto, aikuchi, yoroi toshi, and kawaiken. Also on the wall next to the katana were various weapons, such as shuriken varying from Bo Shuriken, Hira Shuriken, and Kurumaken, to yari that went from different kinds of su yari to kama yari. Kagome's eye twitched at all the different kinds of spears there was, she didn't even know half of them nor the fact they existed. And then next to that, Kagome's eyes bulged at the sight at how many kinds of arrows that was on display. She could feel an animated sweat drop forming as she wondered if wine is the only thing he collected.
Exhausted at all the weapons the collector possessed, she decided to retire from the dojo for now, and she would certainly come back later. For the mean time she resumed her journey through the halls of the castle, passing by many rooms that contained more foreign objects she never seen before, literature she never beheld, and the amount of wine she could ever witness.
Kagome's eyes twitched as she had found the cellar that contained his collection of wine. And he wasn't kidding when he said he collected wine from all over. There were wines here that were way older than the entire village people put together. Looking at the age at one of the bottles, her face began to fluster as she placed the wine bottle back slowly on the rack incase in might break.
"Chardonnay…Greece….1000 BC…"
Despite the fact of these old aged wines, her curiosity got the better of her as she explored and read each kind of wines that were stored. His collection was surprisingly neatly organized. The racks were stacked with wine bottles going by latest to most recent, all from different places and different kinds. Some of the bottles came from Europe such as France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Germany, and Portugal. Then there was some from the West Country. There were varieties kinds of wines. Apparently, those from Europe tended to be classified by region while as non-European wines were classified by grape like Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Chardonnay. There were many kinds of types of wines, besides red wine to her much surprise. There were country wines such as apple and elderberry wine, barely wine, ginger wine and even white wine…And then there were few sake bottles here and there.
Kagome shivered a felt a bit dizzy on her feet. With the combination of the room at 55 degrees, the dust from the wine bottles, and walking around in circles consuming all this information in her head, all this made her quite light headed. She decided to call it a day and look for an onsen to relax in. This thought made her a bit better as she left the cellar and resumed her tour, in search for the onsen.
In her search she noticed, the lack of servants in the halls. She pondered if he really enjoyed the solitude. Shrugging her shoulders, she entered a room which appeared to be his study room. Her eyes widened at the beauty of the majestic painting just above Sesshomaru's table, upon entering the room. There were two men, two women, and two little children; one child was a mere boy, and the other was just a baby covered in a shawl.
Starting from the top right, the eldest looking male gentlemen looked to be in his early 30s' in the painting. His long platinum hair glowed healthy over his shoulders as he wore a lengthy embroidered kimono that was both fancy, yet simple. The fabric looked to be expensive material as he stood quite aloof from the group, yet seemed quite close to the other people within the painting. The thing that caught her eye was the fact his smile seemed to warm her a bit as he stared whoever may view the picture.
The next male was between the two onna, this one was quite young. If she didn't know better, she would've expected him to be Sesshomaru himself. Yet, the domineering male stood with his arms crossed together. He held similarities as the man she knew, yet this one seemed more lively, sociable, and even rebellious, as he winked to his viewers. His simple dark kimono colors were less impressive than the first male's clothing, yet he still looked handsome nonetheless.
Next to him, the onna seemed to be like a female version of Sesshomaru. Her cool amber distant look enraptured her as she stood like a high lady-like fashion, in her Kurotomesode. The black kimono really suited her as a high-statue woman and in looks as it brought out the silver tresses that gently framed her pale beautiful face. The onna beside her on the other hand, was rougher than the first onna. She stood, looking sideways in the picture, her long ink black hair covering her figure, while her raised hand held up a small fan that covered the lower part of her face. Her oddly grayish eyes seemed alluring as she stared back at her as if to tempt her.
Now the little boy seemed the most humorous and saddest among the people. Standing in front of the adults, in his little formal traditional kimono, he had a look of disgust and annoyance as he held the wrapped child in his arms. His eyes not even reaching the viewer as his molten golden irises looked away. His short silver hair covered most of his face, as if he didn't want to be there.
Kagome didn't know whether she found it odd that such a picture existed or funny that Sesshomaru had such an unique family portrait.
Sighing, Kagome then left the room as she found her tour coming to a close. She was surprised to have learned so much about the man that has saved her, without him even talking about it. But then again, he wasn't much of the talker about his personal life unlike her.
Finally finding the onsen in a room close by the study room, she quickly undressed, headed outside, and slipped inside the hot water, allowing the warm moisture to ease her pains and aches. She sank deeper into the spring, until her head was just about to submerge into the water. Her back rested against the side of spring while her head lay just above the water, allowing her to look up to the sunny clear sky. Her eyes adjusted to the light as she bathed in content.
Has the sun always been this warm?
She hummed and pondered as her eyes drifted to a close. Her mind flashing of the things she saw today and the amount of questions now building.
'If he lives alone in this castle, where are those other people in the picture?' 'He carried a baby in his arms…does he have a brother?' 'Who was were those other people?' 'One of the couples, have to be his parents…I wonder which one….' 'And if one of them were, who were the other two?'
Her mind sank deeper and deeper into a trance. She felt so warm and her mind was becoming foggy. She sighed happily and wished this could last forever. Kagome was falling deeper and deeper into the darkness, though it was getting darker, the light fading from her, she felt safe for some reason. Her light growing dimmer each second as a little bubbles were emitted from her. Warm substance kept submerging her deeper into that darkness and she couldn't get out. She knew this was too good to be true. This warmness engulfing her, she didn't want to be in the dark anymore. She had to break free.
Struggling, she tried to reach for the light. The light began to grow stronger as she tried to run to it. But before she could reach that light, darkness spread over that light, halting her destination. That darkness figure looked so familiar…Her eyes widened and she screamed.
Gasping for air, Kagome found herself on the ground, out of the onsen. Her naked figure was still warm and tingling from just being in the spring. Her lips felt warm as well. She subconsciously reached for her lips before she noticed another presence.
Turning her head, another drenched figure was kneeling at her side; silver hair strands dripping of water as the figure panted, crouched down on the ground.
Her eyes widened as she then sat up quickly and looked around confused.
What had just happened? When did he get here?
Then a low voice rumbled.
"I told you to stay out of trouble."
Kagome turned her head away and bowed her head in embarrassment as she realized what just happened. Not only did she fall asleep in the onsen, she almost drowned in it! And he had to save her again!
"Gomen…I just-"
"Never mind, just go get dressed." He hissed.
Kagome bit her lip to retain her anger. She was grateful he came and saved her, but he didn't have to be so cold. She quietly stood up and began walking to the shoji door that led back inside. Before she reached the door, she secretly glanced back. Though he wasn't looking at her, she could've sworn she saw a slight blush on his cheeks.
Her anger faded as she smiled and walked out of the onsen.
SKSKSK
Meanwhile, an afternoon lunch was just settling elsewhere, while this transition with the couple occurred.
Beautiful soft pink lips sipped a fine porcelain tea cup, as his hands held the cup close to his mouth. After taking in a considerable amount, he moved his tea cup away from his lips and just above his low table. He ignored the delicious delicacies before him as his attention was averted to the growing afternoon sun. His silver hair gently blew to the side, becoming a nuisance, as he pushed the tiresome strands behind his ear.
Yet, despite this quiet lonesome lunch, the elder man smiled as the wind picked up a little speed into the room, causing a flutter at his table. A single piece of wrapped up scroll was one of these items as it was wedged between a bowl and the table. The wind had unraveled the scroll once more, revealing the few words that were contained in the message to him.
A storm is brewing
Beware of Wind, Earth, Fire, Water
Silver made His move…
Dictionary
Onna-Woman
Kami-God
Imotou-little sister
Otou-father
Teme-batard
Hime-princess
Iie-no
Hai-Yes
Hontou ni-Really
Arigatou-thank you
Gomen nasai-I'm sorry
Dooshite-Why
Nani-What
Shoji-paper door/ screen
Tatami-wooden flooring
Onsen-hot spring
Tadakimasu- "Thanks for the food/ I receive"
Go, shi, san, ni, ichi- Five, four, three, two, one
Break Skit
DG: Okay, so there have been some slight delays in my writing, but I got another chapter in nonetheless
Kag: Plays Crisis Core: Yes! Level up!!
DG: OoO!! Let me play!! : whines:
Kag: Nu uh! I just got to Sephiroth! : keeps away:
DG: Mou!! Kagome!!
Sess: slices the PSP and sits away from the two:
DG/Kag: O O ….
Everyone: silence:
DG: You're paying for that.
A/N: Alright a lot of Japanese terms that I wasn't about to put up there and not explain. First off, the game between Sesshomaru and Ryuura is called Cho-han bakuchi. This is a common Yakuza game where there can be more than two players, the objective of the game is that the dealer shakes the two six-sided dice in a bamboo bowl and then hides the results from the dice on the ground to prevent cheating. The players call out with cho or han; cho meaning even and han meaning odd. The results then determine the winner and the money is split to the rightful callers of the either former or the latter. When Kagura takes off her right arm of her top, this traditionally prevents cheating, as the male dealers take off their shirts. This example can be found on one of the Samurai Champloo episodes.
Next, are all these god damn weapons that belong to Sesshomaru. Yes, not only is he a wine collector, but possibly a weapons fanatic. Beginning with the katana, the katana mentioned are types of swords, from nodachi to wakizashi are swords lengthen from 90 cm down to 55 cm. An example of this kind is Final Fantasy VII's Sephiroth, his sword which I heard was a nodachi, a 90 cm. And then we have tanto to kwaiken which lengthens from 41 to 8 cm. The next weapons, shuriken, are just types of shuriken-Bo(stick), Hira(flat), kurumaken(wheel). And then finally, the yari, which means spear. There were a LOT of kinds of su yari (simple spear) and kama yari (sickle spears), which I did not want to mention. It is as if, you couldn't get enough Japanese weapon names. Lol.
Ok, a few other things to mention before I forget, tamagoyaki is a rolled omelet; and natto is fermented soy beans that you can put on steam rice and eat with rice together. Also, a kurotomesode is a black formal kimono that are used by married women; mostly used by mothers of the bride and groom in a wedding. And, the "haiku" that I tried making up, lol, was by me. Sorry, if it sounds choppy, I was just writing whatever I could by sounding out words and counting out the syllables with my fingers. Lol! The message in the end was haiku too. : wink:
Oh yea, also about that yen issue. It's not accurately correct, but what can I do; back then yen was just starting out so it was defined by troy ounces and grams to determine the value, I'm guessing? I really don't know how they weighed it back then, so don't mind Kyoura's way. : Sweat drop: 1.5 grams of pure gold is worth 4715 modern yen, as said by wikipedia? Hahaa, I know, wikipedia isn't always true. But I'm just using it as a reference folks. So, what's the amount of US dollars for that? Mmm, the dollar by 2002 was about ¥134 so multiplying 134 by 4715, is about 631,810 US dollars. Sugoi… O O;;
Umm what else? Ah, forgive me if I got things confusing with the wine information. I'm obviously not a wine expert, so I tried getting some reference on wikipedia. Sad I know, but the information there was somewhat of a help, so if you want you can research that and help me out if I got things mixed up.
Now for a little rambling, if you kindly stick around and read…I was obviously planning to make this one long chapter for Sess/Kag and I really wanted to put a lemon and all this other crap in it, but the chapter was getting more lengthy than intended, with the gambling scene and some details on Sesshomaru's hobbies. So, I decided to cut this chapter in half. It actually makes better sense to do so, I don't think I like making Kagome have sex with Sesshomaru as soon as she gets out; it would go against her will. But I promise, in the next chapter, I plan to have many lemon scenes between the two, once the progression gets further into the story of course. Oh lord…the story just got longer, lmao. Alright, I think that's about another page of rambling and trying to clear of some things. If you have any questions or concerns, just let me know and I'll respond ASAP. And of course, REVIEW!! Ja matta minna!