Disclaimer: I do not own the Characters, only this plot line and all its insane little twists.
A big thanks to The Invisible Author for proofing this! XD
A/N: The Japanese term for attorney is= Daigennin, so I simply shortened this to Daigen for the attorney's name.
Kichi=Fortunate/lucky- thus the name for the reporter. Enjoy the chapter.
Chapter nineteen:
Back at the Ryuusan Estate:
Tomi pulled back and rang for his servant. The servant entered asking, "Yes, Tomi-sama?"
Tomi ordered, "Have refreshments taken into the office, and I want my attorney here within the hour." and waved a hand, dismissing the servant. She bowed and left to carry out his orders.
Tomi bent over to retrieve his cane. Before his hand could pick up the stick, Bankotsu handed it to him and helped him to his feet. Tomi said, "I'm glad to have you home again, but don't treat me like an invalid," with a slight last in his tone.
Bankotsu grinned and chuckled, saying, amused, "Good to see some things still haven't changed after all." as he stepped back, allowing the old timer to proceed on his own strength.
Tomi grinned, "You bet your ass, kid," chuckling with his great-grandson. Kagome's heart swelled with pride at the sight of the two normally cantankerous men getting along with one another.
She walked over, slipping her arms around Bankotsu's waist, beaming with pride and happiness. Returning her smile, he wrapped his arms around her waist and everyone followed the older man as he said, "Follow me into the office. There is much to be done yet."
Sora and her father brought up the rear with Souta between them. Hiromasa thought happily, "It's about damn time those two patched things up." Pleased that his oldest friend had been granted a happy reunion, and the boy who would soon be officially his grandson, had received a warm welcome.
Sora was fighting back tears of joy herself as she followed her daughter into the spacious, private office. The doorbell rang and minutes later Tomi's official lawyer entered the room, briefcase in hand.
Tomi ordered everyone to sit as he took his seat, and the refreshments were placed on the big, office table. Tomi said, "First of all, Dai-kun, I'd like you to meet my great-grandson, Bankotsu, and his fiancée, Higaurashi Kagome."
The attorney's eyes widened as he asked, "Then he has returned after all?" a bit shocked.
Tomi said, "Yes, now sit. I trust you have everything in order."
Daigen replied, "Yes," pulling out his notebook and the official papers that would decide the fate of the old man's vast fortune, various properties, and each person's inheritance from the old man's will.
Placing his papers on the table, he passed the old man two fresh, blank copies of the will. Tomi said, "Thank you for coming on such short notice. Since my heir has finally returned, I want everything done this minute, understand?" eying his long-time attorney.
Daigen said, "Yes sir, boss." grinning, as he held out the pen.
Tomi grinned taking the pen and wrote out his will, leaving the estate and all its surrounding properties to Bankotsu, as well as his parent's house and that land.
Looking up, he asked, "Now, Bankotsu, you've made it clear that you don't intend to run the companies, so, what would you like me to do with them?"
Bankotsu said, "That's up to you. I just don't want to be the one running them."
Daigen reminded, "Takahashi Incorporated is still very interested in buying them." Tomi heaved a heavy sigh and nodded before he began writing again.
Looking up again, he asked, "Bankotsu, will you and Kagome allow me to have the proceeds placed into a trust fund under your names to be distributed evenly among however many children you two have?"
Bankotsu blinked stunned. Kagome gasped, "Grandfather Tomi, that's too much-" He held up a hand, silencing her protest.
Tomi said, "Please allow me to do this as a way of making amends for my failings with you, my boy. At least let me go to my grave knowing I have done my part to provide for your future children." pleading with his sole heir.
Bankotsu sighed and said, "It isn't necessary, Grandfather, I didn't return for your money. I came back for you." Seeing the determination in the older man's eyes, he added, "but since you insist, if this will let you rest easy- then yes."
Beaming with pride that he would be able to at least ensure future generations would be financially stable, he began writing again.
Once the will had been settled, Tomi passed it to Daigen saying, "Pass me the sale papers to the company."
Daigen did so. Tomi took them and signed them, requesting, "Bankotsu, my boy, will you sign as witness so there will be no doubt of the sale?"
Bankotsu did so at the nod from his future wife. After signing the papers, he passed them back to his great-grandfather, who then passed them back to Daigen for the official seal authenticating the documents so that they would be recognized legally.
Daigen asked, "What about the press?"
Tomi assured, "In good time. Right now though, we're ironing out all of the legal details."
Bankotsu said, a little concerned, "We can't tell them where I really was, no one would believe it. Plus, I don't want the Higaurashi shrine invaded by a bunch of thrill-seekers."
Kagome suggested, "Why not just tell them you went on an extended sabbatical but have now returned and leave it at that?"
Sora added, "It wouldn't be a complete lie either."
Tomi thought it over a bit and looked at Bankotsu, who nodded declaring, "We will then, and it's a great idea, babe," kissing her cheek. Kagome beamed at the praise.
Daigen nodded, asking, "And about the sale?"
Tomi said, "Bankotsu and I will make an official statement confirming that when we announce their engagement." asking, "That is if the two of you don't mind?" staring at the young couple.
Bankotsu turned to face Kagome, asking, "What do you think, Kags?" wanting her opinion before he said a decision either way.
She said, "I'm okay with it, but are you? You're already going to be swamped by the press just by returning. Are you sure that you're okay with that?"
Bankotsu replied seriously, "Kags, as long as I have you with me, I can handle anything." She grinned.
Tomi announced happily, "It's settled then." and pulled out his phone, calling the same reporter from the last segment and asked, "How would you like an exclusive interview at Ryuusan manor tomorrow morning at ten am?"
After pulling the phone from his ear while she squealed in excitement about getting the 'big scoop' and agreeing on the time, he hung up, announcing, "It's all set tomorrow at ten am sharp, right here."
Sora nodded, "Father and I will go home and get everyone's clothes." standing to her feet.
Tomi agreed, "Be back here in two hours. I'd like for all of you to spend the night here, so that tomorrow our families can announce the happy news together."
Sora grinned promising, "We will," as she and her father left to get the clothes.
Bankotsu grimaced, asking, "You're not going to put me in one of those damned monkey suits, are you?" clearly not looking forward to it.
Tomi laughed saying, "No, my boy. Tomorrow we will show the world the real Ryuusans, and you can dress however you want."
Bankotsu grinned, saying, relieved, "Thank, Kami!" laughing with the older man.
Tomi added, "I have your word not to breathe any of this to a single soul before the broadcast, correct Daigen?" with a look of "don't make any mistakes".
Daigen assured calmly, "As always, you have my vow of the utmost secrecy." standing up to bow before taking his leave.
Tomi nodded, "Good. Now I want those papers officiated by eight am, no later! You're dismissed."
Daigen assured they would be ready, placing an exact copy of the will in the old man's hands and took his leave.
Placing the will in his secret safe, Tomi turned to his great-grandson,, saying, "Tomorrow is going to be a big day for us all, but if you don't mind, I'd like to spend another couple hours tonight with both of you."
Bankotsu looked at Kagome, who nodded her consent. He smiled saying, "I'd like that, Grandfather."
Souta was shown to the entertainment room where Bankotsu had spent his free time as a child. His eyes lit up when they landed on the eighty-inch, plasma, flat-screen panel TV.
Tomi said, amused, "Bankotsu spent a lot of time playing that silly system when he wasn't being tutored for his various studies."
Souta asked, "You mean he never went to a public school?" somewhat shocked.
Tomi assured, "No heir of mine was going to be in one of those public or even private schools. After his parent's untimely demise, I thought it would be best to keep him close to home where he would feel safer."
Bankotsu walked into the room, adding, "Even though I was little, I remember being able to tell you were looking out for me in your own way." placing a comforting hand on the old man's shoulder.
Tomi's frail old hand went to rest on that of his beloved great-grandson's as he said seriously, "I'm glad you've returned to me, child."
Ignoring the 'child' remark, Bankotsu said, "Me too." smiling at the old man before wrapping both hands around Kagome's waist.
Sora and Hiromasa returned carrying the overnight bags. Bankotsu took his and Kagome's bags and helped them inside.
The butler showed Sora, Hiromasa, and Souta to their rooms while Bankotsu and Kagome followed Tomi into the older man's room. He eased himself onto the bed, releasing a heavy sigh and said, "Age is catching up to me. I'm afraid death isn't far off itself."
Bankotsu sat beside him, assuring, "It's not all that bad. More like an eternal sleep while you float along waiting for the ferry." giving the old man an impish grin he reminded, "I've been there twice already, remember?"
Tomi smiled, "Hai, maybe it won't be so bad after all." adding a bit enviously, "It sounds like you've lead a life full of adventure."
Bankotsu chuckled, "Hai, and now I am ready to settle down into a life of good, old-fashioned normalcy. No more demon hunting, no more killing. Just good, old family and love for me- Thanks."
Tomi smiled, adding, "You've grown into a fine man, lad. Your parents would have been very proud of what you've accomplished."
Bankotsu smiled, "Thanks." adding, "We should let you rest." as he moved to stand up. Tomi grabbed his hand, pleading, "No don't go yet, tell me more about your life, please, lad?"
Bankotsu blinked then sat back down, asking, "What do you want to know?"
Tomi pointed to the tattoo on his forehead asking, "Where did you get this? And what does it mean?"
Bankotsu's eyes followed his hand, and he answered, "I got that when I was still in the Feudal Era; it represented Nanny Hoshi, though I didn't realize it until afterwards." giving the old man a sheepish grin.
Tomi said, "Yes, her passing hit you rather hard, if I recall right." moving to hold his great-grandson's hand.
Bankotsu said in a sad voice, "Yes, she did." as his mind filled with sad memories.
Turning to Kagome, who had remained silent, Tomi said, "I take it you're a shy one, eh?"
Kagome blushed, replying, "I didn't want to intrude." as she scuffed her feet across the floor.
Tomi waved it off, "Pish- posh." and ordered, "Come here, girl." Kagome's eyes darted to Bankotsu, who nodded.
Slowly she walked over, asking, "Yes, Grandfather Tomi?" staring into his gray eyes.
He said, "Sit and talk with us a while."
Kagome nodded and sat with Bankotsu, asking, "What do you want to know?"
Tomi said, "Tell me of your adventures too. It's not every day this old man gets to talk with real time-travelers."
Kagome smiled and began from the beginning. After getting to the part where she and the Inutachi formed a group, she noticed Tomi had fallen asleep and smiled.
Bankotsu smiled and pulled the sheet up over the old man. He leaned over, placing a kiss on the weathered old brow and whispered, "Good night, Grandfather."
Kagome brushed a kiss on his weathered, old cheek, whispering, "Sleep well, Grandfather Tomi."
Together the smiling couple left the room and went to theirs. Not ready to sleep alone in the mansion, Bankotsu gave her a puppy-dog-eyed look, requesting, "Sleep with me tonight so I won't have to be in this old mansion alone."
Kagome blinked and nodded, placing her hands around his waist. He smiled and led her to his old room where their bags sat at the foot of the four-poster bed.
Unabashed, he stripped to his swim trunks and climbed between the sheets, asking, "Well?" grinning at her blush.
Kagome's face heated as she shyly stepped out of her shorts and pulled off her shirt leaving on only her pinkish purple one piece. Still slightly embarrassed she slipped into the bed and faced the wall.
He snuggled close to her, saying softly, "Don't worry, Kags, I just want to hold you tonight." Smiling as he felt her relax in his arms. He yawned, "Night, Kags." brushing a kiss against her cheek.
She grinned, pecking his cheek and said, "Night, Ban." facing his chest and snuggling into the warmth of his embrace. Shortly afterwards they fell into a relaxing slumber, enjoying the comfort of being in each other's arms.
The next morning:
Everyone woke and showered before dressing casually and walking into the dining room for breakfast.
Sora was in a nice dress that showed off her figure without going into the 'flashy' category. Her hair was brushed and left down in her normal pose. Souta was in his best tanned t-shirt and jeans with his hair brushed back. Hiromasa was in his regular dark hakamas and white haori.
Kagome was in light yellow, summer dress which tapered at her waist before flaring out to fall down her legs. Her hair wash brushed, and per her fiancé's request, left to flow free around her shoulders.
Bankotsu wore a dark, muscle shirt to help accentuate his already impressive physique and a comfortable pair of jeans. His hair was pulled back in his regular braid, and his purple star stood clearly noticeable on his forehead.
Smiling, he and Kagome walked over to meet the others at the table. Tomi walked into he room wearing medium gray slacks and a light green polo shirt. His gray hair, which reached his shoulders, was down for probably the first time in his adult life.
He greeted, "Morning, everyone." as he took his seat at the head of the table, motioning for them to sit as well. Bankotsu sat on his right with Kagome across from him on the left. Next to Kagome was her mother. Beside Bankotsu was Hiromasa, and next to him was Souta.
Tomi signaled for breakfast to be served and platters of French toast, scrambled eggs, sausage, and various fruits were placed in front of each of them. A glass each of of pulp free orange juice and milk were set in front of each of them as well.
Tomi waved the servants away and signaled for everyone to eat. Feeling slightly out of place at the extravagant table, they did so.
Once breakfast was finished, they all walked into the drawing room and waited. At ten sharp the reporter was shown inside. She and her small one-man crew began setting up for the interview.
Once everything was ready, she walked over, saying excitedly, "Thanks again for this opportunity, Mr. Ryuusan."
Tomi said, "Think of it as a thank you. If it hadn't been for your last report here, my great-grandson might not have returned."
Her eyes widened as she said, "You mean he's here right now?!" excitement mounting.
Bankotsu chuckled and said, "Yo," waving a half-salute, he added, "I'm Bankotsu."
Her eyes lit up as she said, "Pleasure to finally meet you."
Bankotsu waved it off. Walking behind Kagome, he wrapped his arms around her waist possessively and introduced in a suave manner, "This vision of radiant beauty is Kagome, my fiancée." The reporter's eyes bulged at his bombshell announcement.
Gesturing with his hand to each in turn, Bankotsu introduced, "I'd like you to meet her grandfather, Hiromasa, who is a Shinto priest, as well as the proprietor of Higaurashi shrine. Her mother, Sora, whom she obviously gets her beautiful looks from. And finally, her little brother, Souta, the rising athlete of the bunch." earning proud grins from all of them.
The reporter's eyes lit up as she asked, "Wow! Is this for real?!" At his nod, she continued excitedly, chattering, "I'm going to have the biggest scoop of the century! Not only has the lost Ryuusan heir returned, but he is engaged as well." grinning proudly.
Sora laughed, agreeing, "That you will." understanding the young woman's enthusiasm. After all, landing a scoop like this would make her pretty famous.
Tomi asked, "Ready?" She nodded and signaled her camera man to start rolling. Getting into position she said, "This is Kichi Misao coming to you with a B.Y.K. exclusive- live inside the reputed Ryuusan Manor. With me is Mr. Tomi Ryuusan, along with some very special guests."
She stood next to Tomi, who said, "Thank you for coming on such short notice."
She said, "Thank you for allowing me to be the one to have this exclusive interview." Leading into the big news, she asked, "Can you tell us why we are here?" trying to hide her excitement.
Tomi grinned, answering proudly, "Since you were the one who covered the last broadcast, I felt it only right you be here to witness the results firsthand -firsthand is one word-."
The camera man then panned to the couch where Bankotsu, Kagome, and her family all sat waiting.
She walked with Tomi over to the couch as he said, "I am more pleased than words can say to announce that my great-grandson, Bankotsu Ryuusan, has finally returned home." as he stood beside Bankotsu.
Bankotsu smiled up at his only living relation, saying, "Thank you, Grandfather." standing up to give him a hug. The camera zoomed in on the happily reunited males. Tomi hugged him back before stepping back and saying, "Go ahead and introduce them, lad."
Bankotsu grinned and took Kagome's hand, pulling her up to stand beside him and proudly introduced, "This lovely, young woman is Kagome. We've been through a lot together, and will continue to do so for the rest of our lives." beaming with pride that she chose him.
So there would be no confusion for the audience, Kichi asked, "So then you are saying that she is your fiancée, correct?"
He smirked, answering bluntly, "You bet your ass she is." and shocked everyone in the room by kissing Kagome senseless. After her startled yelp of surprise, Kagome's arms closed around his thick neck and she kissed him back just as passionately.
The camera zoomed in on the heated kiss the couple were sharing before panning out to catch everyone's reactions.
As the two teenagers continued their rather consuming kiss, Sora smiled remembering her own youth. Kichi fanned herself, saying to her audience, "Oh my, that's… some kiss."
When Bankotsu pulled back, Kagome's face was flushed from the intensity of their combined passions and held a dreamy expression on it. Bankotsu's face showed a very smug smirk as he surveyed his handiwork. Slightly from embarrassment, and slightly from having the shit kissed out of her, Kagome leaned into him in order to keep her knees from buckling.
Chuckling, Bankotsu held her waist and continued introducing her family. "This old man is her grandfather, Hiromasa. He also is a Shinto priest and will be presiding over the ceremony, which will be held over at her family's shrine." earning a proud grin from Hiromasa, and a shocked one from Sora. Kagome just beamed at him with approval shimmering in her eyes.
He walked over with Kagome by his side, continuing, "This beautiful woman is her mother, Sora, who, in my opinion, is the best cook in all of Japan." earning for the first time ever, a blush from the elder Higurashi female.
Grinning proud as can be, he finished, "And this runt here is her younger brother, Souta, who will one day become a famous soccer player."
Souta beamed up at him saying, "Thanks, Ban." eye shinning with happiness and pride at the compliment.
Bankotsu replied, "No sweat, kid." and ruffled his hair in a brotherly fashion.
Kichi cleared her throat, bringing his attention to her and asked, "So, how long have you known the Higurashis?" curiosity in her hazel eyes.
Bankotsu grinned replying, "Long enough to feel I am a welcomed member of their family." not giving any secrets away. He went back to tousling Souta's hair. Souta played along, half protesting.
Kichi smiled and turned back to Tomi, stating, "You must be overwhelmed with joy? Not only has your greatgrandson been found, safe and sound. But, when he returned, he brought along his future in-laws."
Tomi said with absolute conviction, "I couldn't be any prouder. My great-grandson has grown into a fine man and has also become part of a close-knit family who obviously adore him."
Kichi said, "It's wonderful to see that all of the effort you've put into searching for him has paid off so well." Adapting her professionalism, she asked, "Wonderful as all of this is, I'm told that it isn't the only reason you called us here. Is that correct?"
Tomi said, "You're right. I wanted to let the world know not only is Bankotsu back but happily engaged to a wonderful young woman as well. There is also one more bit of news we would like to share with everyone." Motioning for his great-grandson to do the honors, Tomi urged, "Go ahead, lad, tell them."
Curiosity piqued, Kichi switched the microphone to Bankotsu. He cleared his throat before announcing happily, "Well miss Misao, the last announcement we want to make today concerns our family business."
Grinning at her good fortune, Kichi asked, "And what announcement is that?" just knowing this scoop would be the one to launch her career to into fame.
Sensing her eagerness, Bankotsu said evenly, "I will not be taking over Ryuusan Weapons Incorporated." smirking at the bewildered look on her face.
A/N: Okay people that's chapter nineteen. Enjoy XD
