Kagome leapt from the well and looked around smiling. She had already cloaked her aurora and scent with her miko powers. No one would know where she was unless they saw of heard her. But she had learned over the years how not to be seen or heard. She hefted her black back pack farther on her back. She scanned the familiar clearing in silence. It hadn't changed since the first time she had come here five years ago.
Yes, five long years. She was now eighteen. She had grown a lot physically and mentally. She was a good hunter, tracker, fisher, and camper. She also had a lot of stamina and she was stronger. Then she had grown her hair to her waist, her body had filled out in the right places, and she had grown a few inches. At her neck she wore four shards. Two were Koga's and two they had found. Somehow in the past five years Kagome had mastered her miko powers too.
Her friends Sango the last exterminator, Miroku a cursed monk, Shippo an orphan kitsune, Kirara; Sango's a neko, and Inuyasha a hanyou were waiting for her. She had started to go home less because Inuyasha had threatened that they would leave her behind and get Kikyo to take her place. Her friends didn't stand up for her either. They all wanted to kill Naraku and find the last jewel shards too. Kikyo was always close and Kagome knew Inuyasha wasn't just saying that, he would really get Kikyo to replace her. It was obvious that he and Kikyo had already mated. Kagome had been heart broken at first since the betrayal had been so abrupt. That had been two years ago. She had gotten over it.
She just shook the thoughts away while sighing and slipped down the path towards a different clearing where her group waited. Kaede had died two years ago and they weren't as welcome in the village. So they all camped near the well but not beside it. Kagome's feet touched the ground softly barely leaving any trace of her. She dodged every branch skilfully. When she got closer to the clearing she slowed. She heard voices and wanted to know what they were saying. She hid behind the last tree and listened.
"Is this the right choice?" Miroku asked.
"Of course, love." Sango said.
"Kagome just slows us down. She's weak, pathetic, and annoying. She always needs to be saved. Beside Kikyo is way stronger then her. If Kikyo had her whole soul then she would be even stronger." Inuyasha said.
"Who will look after me?" Shippo asked.
"I'll be your new mother." Kikyo said. "I will also save Kohaku by purifying his jewel and healing his wound. I will also study curses to heal Miroku."
"So it's settled. When Kagome returns we kill her and close the well." Sango said firmly.
"Yes." They all chorused.
.--.
They all spun as they heard a throat being cleared. They spun to see Kagome standing at the edge of the clearing. She looked at them with empty eyes. There was nothing in those once soft overflowing blue eyes. They were sharp but completely empty of emotion, feelings, and anything else. They all stood starring at her wondering how much she had heard. Kirara's tails twitched as she looked between Kagome and her mistress. Kagome glanced at her.
"Inuyasha. I followed you for the past three years loyally. I saved you a few times and gave you nothing but my love. When you threw me to the side for Kikyo I let you with only a few tears. Miroku. It was I who let you join. It was I who helped you when you needed help. I helped you reach out to Sango. Sango. I saved you from yourself numerous times. I tried my hardest to save your brother. I helped you find Miroku. Shippo. I showed you nothing but motherly love. I gave you my attention and love. I gave you what ever you wanted. Kikyo. Even though you have tried to kill me I never tried to hurt you. I let you have Inuyasha without a fight."
There was silence. No one noticed she hadn't mentioned Kirara.
"I have given to you all nothing but kindness and caring. I never once gave you reason to hate me. I may be a bit weak but that does not give you the right to take my life." She said sharply.
There was more silence as everyone almost felt ashamed for what they had been planning. Kagome looked at them again and they flinched at her eyes. They weren't just empty they were filled with hate.
"If you hate me then so be it. I will leave you be. You hate me so I will let you have your hate. I will leave you and I won't bother you again. I hope that you will not think me your friend when we next meet."
There was silence again and everyone looked at the ground as Kagome scanned them with empty but hate-filled eyes. Then she turned sharply and walked off.
"Wait…" Sango started.
"Follow me and I will kill you." Came her cold reply.
Everyone watched her go.
.--.
Kagome walked through the trees blind by rage and not knowing where she headed. 'How dare they betray me?!' She thought furiously. She didn't even notice that as she walked a black aurora surrounded her. Every demon with in a kilometre ran for their lives. The group she had left behind starred in her direction with wide eyes, shaking, as they felt the power. Kagome kept walking and cursing the group over and over again. The black power disintegrated the demons and animals within ten feet and the trees and plants died as she passed. She didn't notice though. All the hate she had held in for years that had been building up was now being released. She kept walking leaving a clear trail, of destruction. None dared to follow her.
She knew not how long she walked for but when she stopped it was dark out. The black power receded into her body and she dropped to her knees in the grassy field. She was soaked and she wondered when it had started to rain. She sat there as she reined in the anger. She stayed kneeling letting the water soak her. She shivered slightly. She wished she had someone; someone to help her, to keep her warm, to give her happiness, and love. She wanted someone that would be there for her. She had hoped to find that person in this era. Her present era seemed to alien to her now. She hated that side of the well. Now here, was where she wanted to spend the rest of her life. She had been selfless for the whole five years, helping others and giving for nothing in return. Then they thanked her by betraying her. She had given up five years of her life to help them and she got nothing. Not even friendship. All she wanted was love and acceptance. She sat in the rain for god knows how long.
Suddenly the rain stopped. She looked up and still saw that raining but she was being shielded from the rain. She looked up higher and saw soft white. She felt someone standing right next to her. She felt their clothes brushing her skin. She looked higher and met red eyes. She starred into Naraku's eyes a moment. She realized he had opened his baboon pelt and was standing with her inside with him. She looked at him with empty eyes. She didn't care if he was here to kill her or to taunt her. But she doubted he was here to do that. He was looking down at her with clear calm red eyes. He looked serious not a hint of mockery on his face. He seemed calm and almost caring.
"Little miko." He said.
"Naraku." Kagome nodded.
"You look cold."
"I am."
"Why do you not move to shelter?"
"Where?"
"Now that is a good question."
He looked at her and she met his stare.
"Come with me little miko."
"Why?"
"Your 'friends' never deserved you. Come with me little miko I will help you."
She looked up at him. That was what she had wanted. She had just wanted someone who would help her. He could use her forever as long as he helped and accepted her. He held out a hand and she rested her hand in his larger one without hesitation. He pulled her to her feet and close. She shivered again. He wrapped the baboon pelt tightly around both of them. They were surrounded by miasma as they flew off.
Naraku's POV:
I starred at the miko in my arms. I had watched the whole thing through Kanna's mirror. I had watched her friends betray her. They had never deserved the miko or her powers. They had been fools. They hadn't even recognized the power this woman had. She had way more then Kikyo and they thought Kikyo was stronger. I almost let a chuckle escape. They had let one of the most powerful people go and didn't even know it. Kagome leaned into me. I could feel her shiver. She had been in the rain for hours. I had watched for a while. I had been a bit surprised when she hadn't run, screamed, or fought as I had stepped beside her. I had more then half expected her too. But when she had looked up at me I had knew she wouldn't. I had known as soon as I saw her eyes. They had been empty. I had seen wisps of hate but nothing else.
I could remember the first time I had seen her and her group. She had had large blue eyes that over flowed with happiness and cheer. Now she almost looked dead; almost like Kohaku. I also noticed now, that her scent had changed slightly when the black powers had emerged. As we neared my castle we descended to the courtyard. I saw Kagura waiting for me. She probably didn't even notice Kagome who was cuddled up to me for warmth under my baboon pelt. As I touched down Kagome stayed close to me not even bothering to look where we were.
"Prepare a room for our guest Kagura." I said.
She blinked.
"Guest?" She asked.
I opened my cloak slightly and she starred with wide eyes at the empty looking miko leaning into me. Then she turned and trotted off. I slowly walked with the miko to the castle. She didn't even look around she just starred straight ahead lost in her own thoughts. I walked inside after Kagura. We soon found her stepping out of a room. A weaker demon, one of our few servants, was behind her. The room was set up already. It had been before ready for anyone at a moments notice. The last occupants of the castle, who I had killed, had had the whole place set up quite nicely. Kagura and the servant walked off and I led Kagome into the room.
I walked to the chair by the desk and sat her down. She blinked and finally looked around in curiosity. She looked at me. I let the pelt I wore slip from my shoulders. It pooled around her on the chair. I walked to the wardrobe and pulled out a beautiful black kimono. It had red ravens all over it. I walked back to Kagome. She looked at me waiting. I pointed to a door.
"That leads to your own personal springs. Go warm up and wash, then change into this."
She nodded and gently took the kimono. She stood and glided to the door. She stepped in and shut the door. I just grabbed my pelt and walked off to my room. When I reached it I changed quickly into something dry and then walked to another room while sending a demon servant named Saya to wait for Kagome. I sat down at a table and fell into my thoughts and plans. After a while the door to the room opened again and Saya let Kagome in. My eyes watched her as she walked to the table and sat across from me. She looked very good in the form fitting Kimono. Her eyes looked less empty but they still weren't soft, they were hard.
"Little Miko will you stay here and work with me?" I asked.
"Yes."
I was slightly surprised she had let me get away with calling her little miko. She usually was quite touchy about being called anything other then her name.
"I will do what ever you ask. The only thing I ask in return is a promise."
"What promise would that be?" I asked curiously.
"I want you to promise me that you will not betray me."
I looked at her and nodded.
"I swear that I will not betray you."
"You may use me in what ever form for as long as you want… All I wanted was acceptance." She whispered. "All I did for them was show them kindness and love. I get betrayal in return. All I want now from you is acceptance and I will do anything for you. Anything."
I almost smirked. All I had to do was acknowledge her and I would have the perfect obedient servant. Saya walked in suddenly carrying a tray of food. She set some by Kagome and brought me some before leaving quickly. Kagome looked at the food then me. I picked up some of the food and looked at her.
"Eat little miko."
She immediately picked up the bowl of rice and her chopsticks. She dug in but ate slowly in silence.
"I will train you."
She looked at me.
"It may take a while but I will train you. I even know someone to train you in the miko department."
"I have mastered my miko powers."
"Have you not yet noticed your powers have changed?"
She blinked.
"Your powers turned black when your friends betrayed you. You have become a black miko. You are still pure but your powers are stronger and black. This is because you experienced great pain. You are still pure, but not as pure. Your powers turn black because they have absorbed your hate and pain. They did this so you stayed pure. If your powers had not absorbed the hate and pain you would have become tainted."
She stopped eating and looked thoughtful. Then she sighed slightly.
"I know a woman who can help you master your new powers. They are much like your old powers but you will be more tempted to hate when using your powers and they will kill humans along with demons, innocent or not."
She nodded and started to eat again. We ate in silence. When we finished Saya returned and took the dishes away. Then I led Kagome back to her room. I told her I would fetch her in the morning for her first lessons. Then I returned to my room and fell into a light sleep.
.--.
I woke in the morning early. I had Kanna summoned and looked into her mirror at Kagome's old group.
.--. WITH KAGOME'S OLD GROUP.--.
"Where did that bitch go?" Inuyasha growled pacing.
Miroku, Sango, and Kirara sat in front of the fire and Kikyo tried to sooth Inuyasha while Shippo cuddled into her arms.
"Don't worry we'll find her." Kikyo cooed.
"She can't hide for ever." Sango said.
"Some one will notice her. She is a lone miko looking for the jewel shards most likely." Miroku said.
"And she won't last long by herself." Kikyo said.
"Besides, Kikyo said the well has sealed so she won't be able to go back." Sango said.
"What worries me, are the powers we sensed yesterday." Miroku pondered.
"Those weren't her powers. They couldn't have been hers. They felt different." Kikyo said.
"Besides, I followed the trail and I smelled a different scent that wasn't Kagome's." Inuyasha scoffed.
They all nodded.
"So we still plan to kill her?" Shippo asked.
"Yes." The others said.
"We need Kikyo more then her." Sango said.
"She seemed so sad." Shippo said.
"Of course she did, because she is a weak pathetic girl." Inuyasha said.
"I guess." Shippo said.
He cuddled closer to Kikyo who stroked him.
"So you'll be my new mommy?" He asked Kikyo.
"Yes."
"Okay, now I have a stronger, prettier mommy." He smiled.
Kikyo smiled back. Sango and Miroku almost 'awed' at the sight. Kirara's tails just twitched as she seemed thoughtful. Sango glanced at her neko.
"What is it Kirara? You will help us kill Kagome right? This is so we can save Kohaku." She said.
Kirara mewed a couple times. (~cat language~)
~ I don't know if I want to kill Lady Kagome. She is so nice to me and all of you. She seemed really sad too. Besides how do you know Kikyo can help Kohaku? You all think she is stronger then Lady Kagome but you are wrong~
Sango smiled at her not understanding a word she said.
"I knew you would help." She grinned.
Kirara mewed again.
~No I said I don't want to kill Kagome!~
Sango smiled at her again and went to pull her close. Kirara jumped back and hissed. Then she started to mew.
~I always thought you would always be my smart mistress but you are being mean and foolish. Kagome was like your sister then you betrayed her so you could try to save your dead brother. He is beyond saving. I doubt anyone could save him unless Naraku frees him. Stop being so foolish. You were so mean to Kagome!~
Sango frowned still not understanding her. Of course Sango had never and would never understand Kirara since she was human and Kirara spoke in the neko tongue.
"Kirara come here now or I shall have to punish you! You are mine and you must listen to me!" She said firmly.
Kirara hissed and backed up.
~You can't command me like that. I am loyal to you but I am not your slave~
Sango stood resting her hand on her sword.
"I never expected a betrayal from you." She hissed.
Kirara hissed.
~Well neither Kagome nor I expected a betrayal from you!~
Sango glared at the cat.
"If you come back to me now your punishment won't be too harsh but if you continue to disobey me I will have to deal with you."
~I am my own person I am not yours to control~ Kirara hissed.
"I'm getting annoyed with your 'mewing'. To bad you aren't intelligent enough to think for your self and talk."
~I am smart enough you ignorant human! I understand you perfectly well but you just aren't smart enough to understand me!~
Miroku scowled at the cat and everyone was watching. Shippo was looking at Kirara with a small frown.
"Come one Kirara listen to your mistress." Inuyasha said.
Kirara hissed at all of them. In a burst of flame she turned huge. She leapt into the sky dodging Sango's hiraikotsu. She flew off before the others could get her. She knew where she could go. She flew off quickly towards the mountains. After a few hours she saw the cave she wanted. As she got closer she made out wolf scouts pointing to her. As she landed they surrounded her. Suddenly the wolf leader pushed past the others and blinked at her.
"You're the cat who travelled with my Kagome and the mutt." Koga said.
~Yes.~
He blinked. He could most likely understand her since the wolf language and the language of cats was very similar.
"I haven't talked to you before." He said.
~I had nothing to speak to you of~
"Why are you here and where is your group?" He asked
Kirara wilted.
~They betrayed Lady Kagome~
"WHAT?!" He roared.
He took deep breathes trying to suppress his anger. His men all held him down as he started to lash out at nothing. When he was under control her motioned his men back to their work. Then he sat down and Kirara also sat.
"I am guessing you didn't or you wouldn't be here."
Kirara nodded.
"Tell me what happened."
~Inuyasha wanted Kikyo to live again, but part of Kikyo's soul was in Lady Kagome. For Kikyo to live, Lady Kagome needed to die. Sango wanted her brother back and Miroku wanted his wind tunnel gone. Kikyo promised to save Kohaku and to cure Miroku of his curse. She also promised to be a better mother for Shippo. I don't know if she was lying or not but they all believed her. They decided they needed a strong alive Kikyo more then a loveable Lady Kagome. They planned to kill her~
"You say 'planned to' not 'they did' so she must still be alive." Koga interrupted.
Kirara nodded.
~Lady Kagome overheard. She was distraught then taken over by hate. She just walked off. I don't know where she went. None of us do. She has not gone home. When she left her scent and powers changed too. Then she disappeared, her scent and all~
"So she is out there all alone?" Koga asked calmly.
Kirara could smell he was angry though.
~Yes. The others seem to think she won't last long because they think she's weak. But she is stronger then Kikyo and has learned a lot. She could last forever by herself~
"And why are you here?"
Kirara wilted.
~I wished to warn you not to go to the group in search of Lady Kagome. And I had no where else to go~
"What about your mistress the slayer?"
Kirara scowled.
~She seems to think she owns me, and that I am her slave. She told me I must help them kill Lady Kagome. But I love Lady Kagome…My mistress tried to kill me just a while ago. They are no longer my friends and she in no longer my mistress. Lady Kagome will be my new mistress when I find her~
Koga nodded approvingly.
"We will look for her together. You may stay with us. You will be considered part of my clan."
Kirara bowed her head.
~Thank you~
Koga nodded and stood. Kirara turned small and he held out an arm. She leapt to his shoulder. He told Ginta and Hakkaku that he was going. Then in a tornado he sped off with Kirara.
. THE GROUP—
"I can't believe Kirara betrayed me!" Sango screeched. "I'll kill her when I find her!"
"We'll help too, but since she flew I will not be able to track her." Inuyasha scowled.
"We will continue to look for Kagome but keep an eye out for Kirara." Kikyo said.
They all nodded agreement. Sango grabbed her weapon and everyone packed up. Then they set off.
. WITH NARAKU—
Naraku watched the group and the neko's betrayal in Kanna's mirror. He watched patiently. He didn't watch where the neko went though. Naraku was slightly surprised she had abandoned the group and her mistress but it wasn't big news. He dismissed Kanna as Saya brought Kagome into the room. Saya bowed and scurried away leaving Kagome and Naraku alone.
"Little miko, I wish to inform you that the slayer's neko has abandoned the group. It seems she wasn't too happy with their betrayal."
Kagome nodded.
"I thought she might not be in agreement with them since she never agreed with them when they were planning."
"I do not know where she went but I think she is in good hands."
Kagome nodded.
"Now I will take you to meet your miko trainer Maya. I also have Kagura to teach you how to fight with the wind and Kanna to teach you some things. Then I know some demon called Jurinko who can teach you how to fight hand to hand and how fight with any small blade. I will teach you how to fight with a sword and some other things."
Kagome nodded and bowed her head.
"Thank you master."
"Just call me Naraku."
"Yes, Naraku."
He smirked and she kept her head bowed. Then he stood and motioned her to follow. She followed him closely as he walked down the halls. They finally reached a large door.
"Well your training begins." He grinned.
He swung the door open and Kagome stepped in to see a woman with long brown hair and violet eyes.
"I'm Maya. I will be your trainer in the miko arts for the next while." The woman grinned.
"Good luck little miko. Let us see how strong you can get. Let us see how long it takes you to master your powers."
Naraku swept out of the room chuckling. Kagome would be a great weapon.
. YEARS LATER.--.
Kagome sighed and sat down on a bench in the courtyard. She sighed happily as she looked up into the sunny sky. It had been four long years since she had joined Naraku. Most of the time had been spent training. She had gotten over the betrayal, and she had regained her emotions, feelings, and such, at least most of them. She had mastered her hate filled powered which still held the hate and pain and stayed black as a reminder of what she had felt. She had also learned to use the bow, dagger, knife, and sword expertly. She could use every kind of hand to hand combat too. She was fast, sneaky, and deadly, but beautiful. She was the perfect silent killer and an expert assassin. She was even stronger then Naraku now.
She had spent her time when not training by doing jobs for Naraku or being an assassin for hire. She killed for who ever needed someone disposed of. She refused some jobs but not most. She could now kill without even batting a lash. She sighed wistfully. She had also met some ninja on one such job. They had taken her in and trained her. They were a small village deep in a forest. They weren't even known about to those outside. She had wandered on them upon chance. They had agreed to train her when she had asked. She had stayed with them for six months. She had already known some of what they had to teach her; like how to control energy inside her called chakara. They had also taught her jutsus and such.
When she had returned to Naraku he hadn't been angry at her late arrival, only worried. Over the years their relation ship had gone from enemies, to vassal and master, to daughter and father. Yes, Naraku was like her father now. Her real father had died when she was young and she was glad Naraku was like her father. She had found out early on that Naraku was actually quite nice. They had only seen his bad side since they were enemies. But to those he cared about he was nice. He also was very intelligent, cunning, and strong.
She looked at the birds darting in and out of the trees. She sat in a beautiful courtyard that was filled with trees and gardens. Naraku she had learned kept his castle orderly. With her miko powers she had gotten seeds and made the gardens spring up to make the place nicer. She smiled. Naraku had even stopped his attacks on her old group and his search for the shards at her request. He had stayed with her at the castle. He had given Kagura her heart back, he had given Kanna her freedom, and he had given Kohaku his life back. Then he had given Kagome the jewel which was almost complete minus Koga's shards.
Kagura had stayed with them at the castle switching her loyalty to Kagome who had saved her. She did disappear into the wind sometimes but seemed loyal and a great deal happier. Kanna and Kohaku also stayed. Kanna stayed loyal to Kagome and Naraku. Kohaku knew about his sister's betrayal to Kagome and he said he was disappointed in her. He wanted to stay with Kagome till she confronted the group which would be soon. Well Kagome had had a very good time. The only things she had left to do were deal with her old group, find Kirara, talk to Koga about his shards, and see her brother.
Her real brother, she hadn't seen in a long time. Souta wasn't her real brother, just like her grandfather and mother weren't her real family. They had adopted her years ago when she had been fourteen. She hadn't seen her real family in a long time; ten years to be exact. She sighed. She would have to go visit her brother. Her mother and father were already dead and her brother had to miss her terribly. She scowled though as she thought of leaving the feudal era to do that. She would most likely be able to come back but she didn't want to leave here forever. She shrugged the thoughts off and looked to Naraku who was walking towards her. He smiled softly and she smiled back.
"Daughter, Kanna has shown me that your old group in near."
Kagome sighed. She stood.
"I will go deal with them."
"Will you take Kohaku with you?"
"Yes, and Kagura too."
Naraku nodded. Kohaku and Kagura walked up two seconds later. She smiled at the two and they smile back.
"We will go meet my old group now."
"Sesshomaru, Koga, and Kirara are with them." Naraku said abruptly.
Kagome nodded again. Kagura summoned her large feather and the three jumped on. They flew up into the sky with a wave to Naraku who smiled and waved back. They shot off towards the oncoming group. This was what they had been planning for years; this meeting.
Sesshomaru's POV:
I walked through the forest slowly. It had been almost four years since I had last seen my brother. I had given up on my search for Naraku. He wasn't worth my time and I didn't feel as obligated to kill him. He hadn't bothered me since then, so I didn't bother him. I had been busy anyways. I hadn't had time to hunt for him. The south and the North had had a war for the past four years and since I was between them some of the battle had made its way into my lands. I had been busy keeping the borders safe. The war had finally ended though and here I was traveling again. I had given up on getting the Tetsusaiga too. I didn't need the sword. I was powerful without it and I wouldn't be able to hold it if I found it. Besides some day Inuyasha would die. Then I could claim it. I shook the thoughts off. I smelled my brother up ahead. I had decided to check in on him since I wished to hear news of Naraku and how Inuyasha had been faring.
Rin skipped along behind me leading A-un. Rin was now a healthy fifteen year old woman who was like my daughter. She still wore an orange and white kimono and had some of her dark hair in a ponytail. Jaken followed beside her. He was the same as always. A-un just lumbered along the same too. I looked at them a moment then looked forwards and sniffed the air. My brother and his group had stopped. They had no doubt sensed and smelled me. One thing that interested me was I could not smell the miko from the well, but I could smell the dead miko.
I also could smell the neko and a wolf heading towards the group from the opposite direction as me at a fast speed. I once again shook these thoughts aside and stepped from the trees into a large field. My brother stood in front of the dead miko who was holding the kitsune. The slayer stood ready beside the monk. I just stood looking at them as they stood looking at me. Inuyasha glanced at the tornado coming towards us. It stopped to reveal the wolf clan leader and the small neko on his shoulder. The group's attention was diverted from me.
"There you are Kirara." The slayer hissed.
Her tone surprised me. I thought the neko was her loyal partner.
"I heard you tried to kill Kirara here." Koga said.
"She betrayed us." Sango hissed at him.
I blinked. Neko's were loyal by nature; it was unlike them to betray their masters without strong reason.
"I also heard you betrayed Kagome." The wolf growled menacingly.
My eyes widened slightly.
"So?" Inuyasha asked.
"Tell me the details, prince of the east." I said.
Everyone glanced at me.
"Ah, lord of the west." Koga greeted.
I nodded.
"These people betrayed Kagome. They wanted Kikyo alive. To get her alive they had to kill Kagome. They turned on her but she escaped. No one knows where she went."
"Kikyo is my mate." Inuyasha almost explained.
"Kikyo promised to heal my brother." The slayer said.
"Kikyo promised to be my mother." The fox said.
"Kikyo promised to heal my curse." The monk said.
"Yeah and Kirara here didn't like them turning on her. Kagome had been nothing but loyal, kind, giving, and caring and they turned on her. Kirara refused to help them kill Kagome." The wolf scowled at the group.
I even scowled slightly. I knew Inuyasha didn't have much honour but this was even low for him.
"So you know not where she is?" I asked.
"No." They all answered.
I blinked and looked up. I smelled the wind sorceress, the slayers brother, and a different but familiar smell. A large feather dropped to the side of us and everyone starred at the third person. It was a woman of about twenty-four. She had long raven black hair down to her waist and soft blue eyes. She had silky cream colored skin and a body that was perfect. She stood straight and carried herself elegantly. At her waist were a sword and a couple knives. She also had a pouch that seemed to be filled with some weapons at her waist. She wore a beautiful red fighting kimono that had black ravens scattered on it, and it was tied with a black obi. She looked everyone over.
"Kagome." Koga breathed a sigh of relief. "You are alive."
She gave him a stunning smile.
"Yes. I am alive and quite well."
"Why are you with Naraku's servants though?" He asked slowly.
"Oh, when Inuyasha and they betrayed me I joined Naraku."
There was absolute silence. 'Well that is quite surprising.' My beast said suddenly. 'Very.' I replied.
"But Kagome. Naraku is evil." Koga said.
"No he's not." Kagome said slowly.
We all blinked at her.
"He is a wonderful man." She smiled.
"You say that because he gives you what ever you want for sleeping with him." Kikyo taunted.
Kagome's eyes hardened. She glared at Kikyo and Kikyo stepped back at the intensity of the glare.
"Don't talk of what you know nothing of. I have never lain with my father."
These words hit us all like a tone of bricks. Everyone gaped, even I.
"Father?" Sango stuttered.
"He adopted me as his daughter."
"Show me the mark." Koga and I said at the same time.
She rolled up her sleeve and we looked at the long, thin, pale scar. In demon tradition if a demon wanted to adopt anyone into his family he must do a ritual which involved sharing blood. You would cut your arm and mix your blood. The scar would remain as proof for the rest of their lives. And you could not adopt anyone who didn't want to be adopted. We all starred at it.
"How could you?" Koga asked wilting.
"Naraku is not evil." Kagome said softly. "Let me tell you. When they betrayed me he saved me. He gave me shelter, food, and training. He took me under his wing and asked almost nothing in return. Then he adopted me and showed me nothing but kindness for these last four years. He quit attacking you at my request and even settled down in his castle with Kanna, Kohaku, Kagura, me, and a few others. He is much nicer then Inuyasha and I trust him with all my heart."
There was silence. She had said the words sincerely and I knew she had not lied. I thought a moment. I had never seen Naraku's other side. We had only ever seen his battle side. Kagome had seen his true emotions though and she sounded like she was telling us the truth. She looked at us with soft emotion filled blue eyes. She seemed very happy. She had never been this happy with my brother even when Inuyasha treated her preciously. She was really happy with Naraku.
"He gave Kagura her heart back, he gave Kanna her freedom, and he gave Kohaku his memories and his life."
We all blinked. Kagura gave us a real smile and nodded happily. Then she walked to Koga. He watched her warily. When she was five feet in front of him she dropped to her knees and bowed with her forehead to the ground. All our eyes widened.
"I am truly sorry for killing your kin. Will you ever forgive me?"
Koga glanced at Kagome. She smiled reassuringly at him. He rubbed the back of his neck.
"I guess I can forgive you."
Kagura lifted her head and her eyes showed gratitude. Then she stood and walked to me. She bowed in the same position.
"I am sorry for attacking you and kidnapping Rin."
"I forgive you." I said.
I had never had a personal grudge against her. She looked up at me and blushed red as I met her eyes. I looked away from the stunning red eyes almost blushing too.
Author's POV:
Kagome grinned as she saw Sesshomaru and Kagura looked away almost blushing. Everyone starred.
"Wait... Kohaku got his memories back"' Sango asked slowly.
"Yes sister." Kohaku said evenly looking her in the eyes.
Tears welled up in her eyes. She stepped forwards. He shook his head and Sango looked confused.
"Sister I remember killing them. I know it was not my fault. I betrayed them but not on purpose. But you betrayed you sister like figure on purpose. I am disappointed in you. I can not return to a sister who betrays her best friends on purpose."
Sango looked to be in shock. She stumbled back and fell on her butt her mouth open and her eyes welling up again but not with tears of happiness. She started to sob.
"I did it to save you. All I wanted was for you to come back to me." She cried out.
"I know but there are some lines you don't cross." He whispered.
Kagome saw that it hurt him saying this. He looked away holding back his own tears. Kagome stepped up to Sango. Miroku almost started forwards afraid for Sango's safety but Kagome's look said keep back. Kagome kneeled by Sango who just continued to sob.
"He hates me."
"No he doesn't. It pains him to say this but he is a bit disgusted by your loyalties. He wanted to come back to you and he wanted you to save him but he didn't want you to do it at the cost of my life and Kirara's life."
"Really?" Sango asked looking at me.
"Yes." She said softly.
Kagome put her hand on her shoulder.
"I forgive you." Kagome whispered
Sango looked her in the eyes.
"I can't forgive myself. And we will never be as close as we were at first." Sango said.
"I know. We will never be friends but we can be neutral. I forgive your attempt to kill me. If it happens again I will not forgive you. There will be nothing of you left to forgive."
Sango nodded weakly. Kagome glanced at Kohaku who stepped forwards. Sango threw herself at him hugging him to death. Kagome stood and walked to Miroku. The two looked into one another's eyes. Kagome reached out with her miko powers and healed his wind tunnel. Naraku had taught her how to heal curses, along with how to curse someone. Miroku gripped his wrist and gasped. He pulled the prayer beads off and starred at his normal hand.
"I forgive you for now. I wish this had all turned out better but it didn't. Try to betray me again and I will kill you. We are in a neutral agreement."
He looked at Kagome and bowed his head. Then he rushed to Sango and her brother. Then Kagome walked to Inuyasha. The two starred at each other, their eyes glaring at one another.
"I can never forgive you since you had no strong reason to attack me."
She reached out with her powers again. He was blown back a couple feet by her power. He glared at her again. Then he felt his neck. On it was a black tattoo in the shape of a collar.
"That curse will make sure you cannot kill anyone who does not harm you. It will let you defend yourself but if the attacker is innocent you will not be able to kill them."
He growled at Kagome. She started chant and the rosary around his neck burst and flew to Kagome's hands. It reformed and Kagome tucked it in a pouch. Then she turned to Shippo and Kikyo. She looked at Shippo almost softly.
"I can not hate a child. I forgive you Shippo. Live long."
Then she looked up at Kikyo with hardened eyes. She threw miko power at her giving her the same curse as Inuyasha. Then she turned without saying a word. She walked to Koga who had watched silently. Kirara launched at her and cuddled into her neck. Kagome smiled and stroked the neko. She looked up at Koga.
"Koga I do not wish to be your mate."
He wilted.
"I know. I will always love you though if you want me."
Kagome shook her head. Then she once again reached out with her miko powers. Koga blinked at the jewel shards pulled from his legs and returned to Kagome's hand.
"You took the jewels but I still feel as strong." He said.
"I gave you a spell that will make you as fast as you were with the jewels and as strong as you were."
"Thank you." He breathed.
Kagome smiled at him. She looked back. Shippo was with Sango. Kikyo and Inuyasha had vanished. Miroku, Kohaku, Sango, and Shippo were all talking. Sesshomaru, Kagura, and his group just watched. Suddenly Koga grabbed her hand. He did a bow and kissed her hand.
"Bye Kagome."
"Goodbye Koga."
He turned and in a burst of wind was running off. Kagome walked to Sesshomaru.
"Well what can I say?"
He blinked.
"Take good care of Kagura. She is a dear friend of mine."
Sesshomaru blushed faintly and Kagura turned bright red. Rin giggled and Jaken scowled while A-un snorted.
"I hope you all live happily." Kagome said.
"Will you be leaving?" Sesshomaru asked.
"Yes. I may be gone for a long time. Can I get a promise form you?"
The lord looked at her.
"What promise?"
"Can you promise me you won't kill Naraku?"
"Yes. I promise I will not harm him or kill him."
"Thank you lord Sesshomaru."
He nodded. Then Kagura stepped forwards. She pulled a fan from her kimono.
"I promised to give you one."
Kagome smiled as Kagura handed her the fan along with one of her feathers.
"Bye Kagura."
"Good bye. Tell Kanna bye for me."
"I will."
Sesshomaru rested a hand on Kagura's shoulder. She blushed. His hand slid down to her hand and grasped it. He pulled her close and a cloud formed under his feet. The two lifted up. Rin and Jaken scrambled onto A-un who leapt into the sky after the two. Kagome smiled as she watched them fly away. She looked at the others. They glanced at her.
"Good bye."
They all opened their mouths then snapped them shut. Kohaku suddenly stood and walked up to her. He handed her his sickle on the chain.
"I can always get another."
Kagome smiled and bowed her head. Kohaku bowed back. Kagome pulled Kagura's fan free. She tossed it into the air and enlarged it with the technique Kagura had taught her. She leapt onto the feather with Kirara still on her shoulder. Suddenly a staff came shooting up. She grabbed Miroku's staff.
"I want you to have it." He yelled.
Kagome grinned. Suddenly a small blade like thing followed. It had a clamp like thing with a spring released blade attached. She glanced down at Sango.
"It attaches to your wrist and is unnoticeable under clothing. The blade pops up if need."
Kagome waved and then shot into the sky.
Kagome's POV:
I returned to Naraku's castle and slipped through the barrier. I found Naraku and Kanna waiting in the courtyard with my bags.
"You said you would be leaving." Naraku explained.
"Yes I will be father."
He sighed.
"Kohaku is back with his sister. Koga, Sesshomaru, Sango, Shippo, and Miroku have made neutral agreements with me. Kagura is off to marry Sesshomaru too."
Kanna and Naraku chuckled and grinned at the last part.
"Oh and I don't know where Inuyasha and Kikyo went but I cast curses on them to keep them from killing innocent people and people who didn't give them reason to attack."
Naraku nodded. Kanna held out her small white mirror. I smiled and took it. I slid it into one of my bags. I slipped Sango's present onto my arm under my sleeve. I slid the feather into my hair, the fan into my obi, and I set my staff and the sickle by my bags. Then I grabbed Koga's shards and the almost complete jewel. I merged it and in a flash of pink I had the whole jewel. I hung it around my neck again. Then I hugged Naraku hard and he hugged me back.
"I will come back and visit sometime."
"I know." He said.
"Lady Kagome may I come with you?" Kanna's ghostly voice asked.
We both glanced at her. I shrugged and she smiled. Then I reached for my bags. I pulled one onto my back and strapped my weapons to it. Then I grabbed my other bag and held it under my arm. I noticed Kanna already had a small white pack on her back. Kirara, who was still on my shoulder cuddled up to me. Naraku smiled and I summoned the large feather again. We both hoped on.
"Get some more friends." I yelled to Naraku as we lifted into the sky.
He nodded and waved. Just before we left the barrier I sent the last of my miko powers at him in the form of a spell at Naraku. It would protect him. Then the barrier opened and Kanna and I slipped out.
.--.
We flew for hours till we reached the old well. Most thought it only led to here or my time. But it led to another time too. It led to my real world. I had jumped down it at twelve when I had been running from an enemy. I hadn't been able to get back. I knew the well would let me through now though. I stuck the feather back in my hair and walked to the well. Kanna followed close behind. I stepped onto the rim. Then I grabbed Kanna's arm dragging her in. We immediately were surrounded by a violet light. It felt like falling through water. We touched down finally on a soft dirt floor. I grabbed Kanna and pumped chakara to my feet letting me jump from the well. I looked around. Even though it had been ten years I recognized the clearing. Konoha should be about half a mile away.
I threw a barrier around Kirara making her look like a normal cat and motioned Kanna to follow. She first pulled a second mirror from her bag. She had once told me she didn't feel safe without her 'weapon'. This mirror was different from the mirror she had given me. This one was still white but had silver lilies on it like in her hair. She walked beside me in silence as we walked through the trees. We eventually fell onto a dirt road. As we walked we did it in silence. After a few minutes large walls came into sight. I smiled happily as I saw my old home. As we drew closer I saw the guards watching us. When we stopped inside the gate they looked at us.
"Papers." One said.
"I'm sorry I lost my papers. But Sarutobi should recognize me. I am returning from a ten year mission."
They almost winced. I watched them.
"Our Hokage Sarutobi is dead."
My eyes widened.
"Our new Hokage is Tsunade."
My eyes widened again.
"She knows me also." I replied sighing.
They both looked at me then at one another.
"I will escort you to her." One said.
I knew it was a polite way of saying I'm keeping an eye on you. I nodded. He walked off towards the Hokage tower. Kanna and I followed. We looked around the busy streets as we walked down them. When we reached the tower he led us to an office. He knocked and a voice I recognized told us to enter. We stepped into see a young blonde looking woman looking extremely bored while stamping papers. She looked up at us.
"Yes?" She asked.
"This woman has no papers but said Sarutobi would recognize her."
"She must have not hear door been away a long time." Tsunade yawned.
"I have been." I grinned.
She blinked and squinted at me.
"Do you not recognize me Tsunade?" I asked.
She still looked at me. I gave her one of my award winning smiles and laughed. Her eyes widened.
"Only one person I ever knew could smile like that." She whispered.
I grinned again.
"Kagome?" She asked softly.
"How are you Tsunade?"
In a second she was beside me and I heard bones pop as she squeezed me in a hug. The guard had left and shut the door behind him.
"Kagome. I was so worried. When the enemy attacked you fell down the well and I never saw you again."
I had fallen down the well when enemy had attacked at age fourteen. Tsunade had been trying to guard me but we had been pushed into the trees by the well. I had lost balance and fallen in. She was the last person I had seen.
"What happened?" She asked.
"When I fell in the well I was transported to another dimension."
Her eyes widened.
"Well, a lady with a son and father adopted me. I lived with them on a shrine for years."
"Well I'm glad you're back."
"The well wouldn't let me back through until just today."
Tsunade finally let me go and I healed myself with out her noticing. She looked me up and down.
"Well you have grown into a beautiful woman."
"You too." I grinned.
"Have you been getting stronger?" She asked.
"Yes. I can use various weapons and I know a lot of jutsus. I practice a lot."
"Good, that mean's you can be a Konoha ninja."
I nodded.
"And who is this?" She asked looking at Kanna.
"This is my friend Kanna. She came with me from the other side of the well. She has some good strong powers. And this is my friend Kirara."
Kirara mewed and popped out from my hair. Tsunade nodded. Then she grinned. She went to her desk and rummaged through it. She grabbed a set of keys and tossed them to me.
"I never sold your guy's old house."
I grinned.
"Well that's nice to know."
She nodded.
"Why don't you go settle in and I'm sure you would love to see your brother."
I nodded savagely. Then I frowned.
"How has he been treated?" I asked.
She sighed.
"He was never accepted. Now he is accepted a little with in his group and with some friends, but others still hate him."
I nodded. Then Tsunade tossed me a black leaf symbol head band. I tied it around my neck so it hid the Shikon No Tama. She smiled at me. She also gave me my brother's current address.
"We'll talk later over sake but Shizune will kill me if I don't do some of this work. I'll come to your place later for dinner."
I grinned and nodded. Then Kanna and I turned and walked from the room. We headed down the streets towards my families manor. We walked out of the busy part of town to a section that had large beautiful homes. I saw a couple new ones. I stopped at a large empty looking one. It was like a mansion. The gardens in front looked neglected. As we walked up the path I let my miko powers go. The weeds vanished and the flowers grew, the trees all straightened and looked healthier.
When we reached the door everything looked nicer. I unlocked the door and we stepped in. I let more miko powers go and turned the lights on while blowing the dust from the house. All the furniture was covered with large white sheets. I showed Kanna to a spare room and she set her bags down. Then I set my bags in my old room. Then the two of us started to grab all the white sheets tiding the place up. After three we finished with the help of my miko powers. Then I asked if Kanna could stay here for a while. I asked Kirara the same thing. They nodded and I skipped out the door. I headed down the street. I headed for brother's apartment. I jumped to his balcony and peered in. I frowned as I didn't see him. I then hoped to the roof and jogged off towards the training grounds.
As I neared I saw three people sitting in a grassy field. One was a man with silver hair bent at an odd angle and a mask coving most of his face. He was reading a small orange book. The second person was a girl with bright pink hair and green eyes. The third was a boy with black spiky hair and dark eyes. Last was a boy with blonde hair, and an orange and black outfit. I grinned and started to sneak up to them.
Author's POV:
Kakashi read his Come Come paradise, as his three students talked. They were having their lunch break and chatting. They all talked away as Kakashi watched them from the corner of his eyes.
"Say that again teme!" Naruto yelled jumping up and glaring at Sasuke.
"I said you are a moron."
"That's it!"
Naruto lunged for him but Sakura grabbed him and held him back. Kakashi had to admit the super human strength she had got from Tsunade was useful. Sakura scowled.
"Oh shut up both of you." She growled.
Naruto scowled and stepped back pouting. Sakura and Sasuke rolled their eyes and turned away from the immature blonde. Suddenly a woman dropped down from the tree. She was right behind Naruto. Kakashi started to warn him but before he could the woman's hands went for Naruto. Sakura and Sasuke were talking and weren't facing Naruto. Kakashi was impressed as well as startled. The woman had got up to use before He had sensed her. And she didn't make a sound. Kakahsi was still getting to his feet. He stopped though, as her hands covered his eyes and she smiled. Sasuke and Sakura heard Naruto yelp.
"Hey!" Naruto yelled.
Sakura and Sasuke spun, weapons out.
.--.
Naruto growled.
"Guess who Naruto." A woman said.
Naruto scowled. He didn't recognize the voice off the top of his head though it sounded familiar.
.--.
Kakashi stood ready in case he needed to save his student. Sakura and Sasuke stood ready to save their team mate too, but none thought this woman was threat. They had now noticed her headband. 'I don't recognize her.' They all thought. 'She's quite pretty though.' Sasuke and Kakashi thought also.
"I don't know who it is." Naruto sighed.
The hands moved and he turned to gap at the prettiest woman he had ever seen… besides Hinata. She had long silky black hair and cobalt blue eyes and a beautiful body. She wore a fighting kimono and her eyes were alight. He starred at her. Suddenly a smile covered her face. His eyes widened. He had only seen one person who had a smile like that at him.
"So you know her dobe?" Sasuke asked.
Naruto didn't answer as he stood in shock. The woman grinned. Naruto stumbled back and his team mates watched as his face screamed shock.
"Y-you can-can't be h-her." He stuttered.
His team-mates had never seen him this shocked.
"It is me." The woman said softly.
Before anyone could blink Naruto was hugging the woman sobbing. Now the other three starred at him in shock as the woman rocked back and forth with Naruto trying to sooth him. They all had to wait ten minutes for Naruto to calm down. Then he sniffed and wiped his tear stained face.
"I have never seen Naruto cry like that." Sakura whispered.
"You have gotten so big and strong Naruto. You almost crushed me with that hugs. What are you sixteen?" The woman asked.
Naruto puffed out his chest.
"I'm eighteen and I'm the strongest ninja on my team. And I'm going to be the next Hokage!"
His team-mates rolled their eyes.
"Still hung up with that goal? Well maybe you will succeed." The woman smiled.
"So who are you?" Sasuke asked. "And why do you wear a leaf head band? You can't be a ninja. You seem too weak."
The woman scowled at Sasuke.
"DON'T CALL MY SISTER WEAK, TEME!" Naruto yelled at Sasuke.
There was absolute silence. No one moved or even breathed.
"Your sister?" Kakashi finally choked out.
"Yeah. Meet Uzumaki Kagome, my older sister." Naruto grinned. "This is Kakashi my sensei he's a pervert. Sakura my friend and team-mate, she's a medic with superhuman strength. And Sasuke. He's a teme."
Kagome smiled, nodded, and bowed her head.
"Nice to meet you."
They all hastily bowed their head back.
"Why haven't we seen you around?" Kakashi asked.
"There was an incident. I wasn't able to return for a while." Kagome said. "Oh! And Naruto we are moving back to our manor."
"Alright! I didn't stay there because it was so lonely without you." Naruto said.
"Oh and you Hokage Tsunade is coming for dinner."
"What Baa-chan is coming for dinner?" Naruto asked.
He got a bump on the head as Kagome's fist connected with his skull.
"Don't call her that! She is a respected figure and you should show her respect." Kagome growled.
"But Kagome-" Naruto whined.
"You know Tsunade?" Kakashi interrupted.
"I have known her all my life." Kagome said.
They all starred at her and Naruto rubbed his bump.
"You may join us for dinner if you like." Kagome said to the three.
"Sure." Sakura grinned.
Sakura got the feeling they would be great friends.
"Nh." Sasuke said stuffing his hands in his pockets.
He still couldn't believe someone this polite, kind, and beautiful was the dobe's sister.
"Why not." Kakashi said.
Kagome smiled at him. No one saw the blush under his mask.
"Well good. Be there by 6 o'clock sharp." She sang.
"What will you do till then?" Naruto asked. "Cause you aren't going anywhere without me."
"Going to cling to your big sister, dobe?" Sasuke taunted.
"I haven't seen her in ten years. So yes I'm going to cling to her, teme."
Sasuke rolled his eyes.
"Oh! And Naruto we have a friend of mine staying with us."
Naruto blinked at Kagome and tilted his head.
"Who?" Naruto asked.
"Her name is Kanna. She came back with me. I also have a pet cat named Kirara."
"Back from where?" All four asked.
Then the three looked at Naruto.
"You don't know where she went?" Kakashi asked.
"No one did. Tsunade was the last one to see here and she wouldn't say anything." Naruto said shaking his head.
"Well I went away for a while. I may tell you where later." Kagome said calmly.
They all watched her blank face a minute.
"So what ninja techniques are you good at?" Sakura interrupted.
"Well I have good medic abilities. I know almost every kind of taijutsu and I am very good at genjutsus. I know a large variety of ninjutsu too. Oh and I can use some weapons."
They looked at her wondering how good she was at each of those. Suddenly Kagome yawned.
"Tired? It's only early afternoon." Naruto said.
"I know but I had a couple 'fights' this morning and I used a lot of my power." Kagome muttered.
Naruto blinked and slowly nodded.
"Oh! I need to go get some things like groceries and stuff. And we have to move the stuff from your apartment to our place." Kagome jumped.
Naruto nodded.
"We should do that now." She said.
"I'll help." Sakura chirped.
Kagome smiled at her warmly.
"I can help too. We do need to know where your house is so we can help and get directions." Kakashi said.
Sasuke shrugged.
"Well I'm going to go get groceries first." Kagome said.
"Do you have any money?" Naruto asked concerned.
"Yeah. I brought back some with me form where I stayed for the past few years. Luckily they use the same currency here."
Naruto nodded. Then he pulled something from Kagome's obi. He examined the fan which he snapped open. They all looked at it a minute. It seemed to be made out of sharp metal and fine silk. The silk had a dragon on it to. Naruto was gaping at it.
"What is this? It weights a ton."
"May I see?" Sakura asked.
Kagome nodded.
"Be careful though." She said.
Sakura took it gently and her eyes widened to. She passed it to Sasuke and Kakashi getting the same reactions.
"What do you use it for?" Kakashi asked.
"I fight with it." Kagome said.
"Fight with it?" Sasuke asked.
Kagome nodded. She took it gently and grabbed a stick from the ground. She tossed the large stick up high. Naruto smartly stepped back. As soon as the stick was eyelevel Kagome spun very quickly almost a blur. Suddenly she stopped and snapped the fan closed. The stick hit the ground.
"You didn't do any-" Naruto started.
They all gaped as the stick turned into tiny pieces. They starred a moment.
"The fan is made of sharp metal that acts like knives. I use it for other things too."
They all looked at her. They had just learned she was fast and deadly with a weapon. She smiled as she slipped the fan back into her obi.
"Well let's go Naruto."
He nodded.
"So are you guys coming?" Naruto asked.
The other three nodded and they set off down the path out of the training grounds.
"How about Kagome and I go get the groceries and Kakashi, Sasuke, and Naruto go get Naruto's stuff." Sakura suggested.
They all nodded.
"We'll meet in front of the academy." Kagome said.
Everyone in the group spilt intro two groups and walked off.
Sakura followed beside Kagome as she examined her. Kagome seemed really nice but Sakura could tell she was strong. She was really pretty too. Sakura was a bit envious. But she was happy for Naruto too. He had someone for him now; a family member who would look after him. Sakura smiled. He already had Hinata as his girlfriend and that made him happy but having actual family was different. She shook the thoughts off as they both turned into the grocery store. As soon as they stepped in Kagome smiled at Sakura.
"So you are Naruto's team mate?"
She nodded.
"How is he? Is he stronger?"
Sakura smiled and they started to talk about Naruto. It seemed to make Kagome happy so Sakura told her all about their missions together and such. They shopped as they talked. Sakura grinned as she noticed Kagome grabbed a lot of ramen.
"You like ramen?" Sakura asked
"Yes. And I know Naruto loves it."
Sakura nodded savagely. She helped Kagome grab some more groceries before they went to the till. When they had gotten everything they walked out the door with their bags.
"The others will probably take longer." Sakura said.
"Yeah, what do we do till then?"
"We could go to another store or something."
"Do you know where a flower shop is?" Kagome asked suddenly.
Sakura grinned.
"My friend works at one."
Kagome smiled and they set off down the road. They saw the flower shop as they came into view. They walked in as a bell rang over their heads.
"Hi, Can I help….Oh it's just you forehead." Ino said.
"Hey Ino-pig."
"Friends?" Kagome asked Sakura softly.
Sakura grinned.
"Best friends and rivals."
Kagome snorted softly.
"Who's your friend?" Ino asked.
"This is Kagome. Kagome this is Ino-pig."
"Hello Ino." Kagome said bowing her head.
"Hello Kagome. Are you a new Konoha ninja?"
"Yes. I just arrived today."
Ino smiled.
"So why are you here forehead?" She asked.
"Kagome wanted to look at you plants." Sakura said
Ino nodded. Kagome looked around. She bought a couple seeds and a large bouquet of flowers for decoration. Then she paid Ino and Sakura and she walked off to the academy. All the students were back in the school since it was after lunch break. Kagome looked at the plants as Sakura just closed her eyes and leaned back.
Kakashi, Sasuke, and Naruto all walked to Naruto's apartment while chatting or in Kakashi's case, reading. When they entered Naruto's apartment they starred.
"Is it always this messy?" Kakashi asked.
"Yup." Naruto chirped.
The two sighed as Naruto started to throw all his stuff in boxes and bags. They talked the whole time. When they finally finished they all looked around. Naruto had to jog off and tell his landlord he was moving. Then they all grabbed the stuff and trudged from the apartment. They had only walked out the door when they almost ran into Shikamaru. He blinked at the boxes.
"Moving?" He asked in a bored tone.
"Yup!" Naruto grinned.
"Troublesome." Shikamaru muttered.
Then Naruto tripped. He hit the ground still holding three boxes. Kakashi and Sasuke sighed. Shikamaru caught two boxes and waited for Naruto to stand.
"I told you, you should just make a second trip." Kakashi sighed.
"But I want to hurry!" Naruto whined.
"I guess I could help…Troublesome." Shikamaru mumbled.
Naruto grinned and the four set off with Naruto quickly taking the lead. As soon as they entered the academy yard Naruto started to wave wildly to the two girls on the bench. They didn't notice that Shikamaru had frozen in his tracks till Kagome stood and walked over to them. They looked back to see Shikamaru starring at Kagome.
"Kagome?" He whispered.
"Shikamaru!" She squealed.
She launched at him. He dropped the boxes and caught her as she hugged him, leaving the other four starring.
"You know him?" Naruto asked.
"Yes. When we were little I used to watch the clouds with him." Kagome giggled.
"You watched the clouds with him?" Sasuke asked.
"Yeah. I hanged out with him when Naruto was busy."
"How old are you?" Sakura asked.
"I'm twenty four. Six years difference but we still got along." Kagome said.
"Where were you all these years?" Shikamaru asked.
"I'm explaining at dinner tonight. Want to come?"
Shikamaru nodded muttering troublesome.
"So how are your parents?" Kagome asked.
"You know his parents?" Sakura asked.
"She used to play shougi with my father on a regular basis. She was quite good at it to."
"So you were really smart at a young age?" Sasuke asked.
"Yup." Kagome smiled.
They nodded slowly.
"Well we better get going. Kanna is still waiting." Kagome said.
"Kanna?" Shikamaru asked.
"Friend I brought with me." Kagome said.
She finally let go of him and scooped up her bags. Everyone grabbed their things and they walked off chatting. As they got nearer to Naruto and Kagome's house they quieted. When they turned on to their path the others stopped and gaped. Naruto and Kagome waited for them at the door.
"You live in a mansion?" Sakura choked out.
"Why didn't you stay here?" Kakashi asked Naruto.
"It was too big and lonely without Kagome." Naruto sighed.
They then quickly walked in the door the others trailing. Naruto set all his stuff in his room and Kagome set all the groceries in the kitchen. Everyone sat down at the island in the kitchen and Kagome started to put the groceries away.
"So Shikamaru will you be staying for dinner."
"I guess." He said.
Kagome grinned. Suddenly a cat bounded up to Kagome and leapt her shoulder.
"Kirara." She said to everyone.
They all nodded.
"Lady Kagome, welcome back." Said a ghostly voice.
Naruto jumped three feet in the air as the voice came from beside him. Everyone spun, except Kagome, and starred at the small teen with white hair and black eyes. The teen held a white mirror and wore a white kimono with lilies in her hair. She starred at Kagome with empty eyes.
"This is Kanna." Kagome said.
"Oh! Hello Kanna. My name is Uzumaki Naruto, I'm Kagome's brother." Naruto grinned.
"Hello Naruto." Kanna nodded.
"Hi, my name is Sakura." Sakura said cheerfully.
"I'm Shikamaru."
"I'm Kakashi and this is Sasuke."
"Hello Kakashi, Shikamaru, Sasuke, Sakura." Kanna bowed her head.
"Kanna have you been lonely?" Kagome asked.
"No. I like the gardens and birds." She said.
"Good."
Kagome dropped her large bouquet of flowers into a vase and stuck it on the table.
"What did you do lady Kagome?"
"I just went and got my brother and his stuff." Kagome smiled.
Kanna nodded. Then she walked to an empty seat. She scrambled up and sat watching everyone and still holding her mirror.
"Why do you carry a mirror?" Kakashi asked.
"I'll tell you later." Kagome interrupted.
"I will not tell what you do not wish me to Lady Kagome." Kanna bowed.
"She doesn't seem like a friend, but more like a servant." Sakura said. "And why does she call you lady?"
"Later." Kagome sang.