Kagome sighed as she watched the girl fumble yet again with the bow and quiver. She had yet to retrieve an arrow yet. While Aoki, Ai was an eager student, she had a habit of over thinking things.
At first, Kagome had requested if she was able to read the plot to understand Aoki-san's character better. What she read, upset her greatly. It seemed much like her own adventures were coming to life, that's how similar the plot was. While there wasn't any sacred artifact that could lead to the destruction of Japan, she did get nauseous.
A miko that helped a man that was unwanted by all, deemed unfit and undeserving to live. Aoki-san's character stumbles upon him and helps him, and while healing him the two begin to grow feelings. Sadly, a lord's daughter sees his noble nature and his heart is soon swayed towards her. Because Aoki-san's character a miko, she's stuck between following her heart which is to love a man that doesn't truly appreciate her and all she's done, or her duty which is to serve the people until she either dies a miko or gets lucky enough to marry a priest.
Placing the script back down, she stood up and walked back over to her student. Even in her head, it sounded odd. "Aoki-san, don't think. Go with your emotions, your heart."
"Higurashi-san~! I don't understand your lessons!" Aoki whined as she threw down her arms and stomped a foot.
Letting out a sigh, Kagome tried to figure out make it any easier for the girl to understand. "I don't mean to be rude, but did you say that every time it got hard for you to get where you are now?"
"What do you mean, Higurashi-san?" the girl tilted her head to the side and blinked wide innocent eyes.
Standing up straight, Kagome looked the girl straight on. "I'm sure you went to various auditions, lessons and had various other jobs. Yes?"
The girl nodded her head, making it somewhat easier for Kagome. Meaning this might just work.
"Were there any times you became confused, or felt that you didn't understand?" when Aoki nodded her head, Kagome smiled lightly. "How did you overcome those moments?"
Aoki furrowed her brows and nibbled on her lower lip before smiling brightly. "I continued to push forward! If I needed help, I would ask for it. Or I would study and look up the information I needed!"
Nodding her own head with a hum, Kagome asked this one question to that. "And why is that?"
"Eh? Because I really want to be an actress!"
Smiling, Kagome then began to position Aoki back into the stance for archery. "Good. Now I want you to remember all those times were you succeeded, were accepted and passed every test. Can you do that?"
Aoki nodded her head, whispering a quiet yes.
"Good. See the target all the way back there? Think of that as your own personal goal, a well known and loved actress. You are the arrow, and the bow is the work you have to put into reaching your goal." slowly, Kagome began to step back from the actress. "There will be times where the challenges are harder, others much easier, but to reach your target you have to work hard. Now pull back on the bow string and release when you're ready."
Kagome watched with a critical eye, taking in Aoki's form. While it was sloppy, it would get better if the girl kept up her practice, but she figured it was also good enough for a tv drama. Her eyes were quick to follow the arrow as it was finally released, smirking when it finally hit the target. It wasn't dead center like she could see Aoki had been hoping for, but it was finally a start.
"There, you see?" Kagome laughed when Aoki turned towards her with a pout. "You've just started archery, it'll take a bit more practice before you hit a bulls eye. But other than that, how do you feel?"
Aokis pout quickly dropped from her face. "Well... actually, I feel pretty good."
"Good. Now you only need to remember the proper stance, and the rest should fall into place." at seeing the pout return and a hearing a groan, Kagome chuckled. "The stance is to ensure you don't hurt yourself, while also ensuring you hit the target. Now, let's start from the beginning."
She laughed and ignored the quiet whines and complaints of her student, smiling the entire time.
It had been near a month since that fateful day when Aoki finally managed to hit the target. She finally understood the basics of archery, and was managing to get closer to the targets center. Meaning that Kagome was going to have to see for how much longer Aoki and the President continued wanting her to teach.
During that month, Kagome managed to catch up with Kyoko whenever they crossed paths. It was awkward at first, after so long with no contact between the two of them, but they finally settled on starting at the beginning all over again. Although... Kagome had been furious when she heard when that damn brat Fuwa Shoutaro had done to Kyoko.
But right now, she had other things on her mind that needed her immediate attention.
Kagome rushed around with the others, getting the last minute preparations. Like the others, she wore the standard white button up shirt with black slacks, shoes, tie and apron. Her ravens wing black hair was pulled up into a messy bun, it allowed the stray strands to frame her face.
She was a server, a roll she willing volunteered for as part of the school festival. Her class decided to go with the restaurant cafe job rather than setting up one or two stands.
"Kagome, do you know where Ayumi-chan is? She was supposed to be here 15 minutes ago!"
Letting out a huff as she readjusted her hold on the heavy table cloths, Kagome looked over her shoulder. Absently, she blew a straw hair out of her face before answering. "She hasn't called me, so no, I don't know where she is."
The teacher let out a groan before waving her off. Readjusting her hold yet again, Kagome rushed towards the last tables, which were of course all the way at the back, to get them covered so the others could set them.
Soon enough, the festival was running, and she was walking around with a tray. Whether it was to bring drinks or food, or to return empty glasses and used plate, she was constantly moving. So it was safe to assume, that she hadn't been expecting to bump into a little girl seeing as this was a way to try and persuade new students to choose their school compared to others.
Blinking dazed blue eyes, she wondered what it was she actually tripped over. When a small whimper echoed into her ears, she quickly shook herself and looked for the source. Eyes widened when they settled upon a tiny blond haired girl as she rubbed at her eyes.
"Oh... oh my!" she scrambled on her hands and knees, quickly crawling towards the girl. "I didn't see you there, I didn't hurt you, did I?"
Still on her knees, she hovered as the girl. She was internally panicking, she could have really hurt the girl. Not only there, where were her parents? Internally, she began to panic how said parents would react to seeing their daughter in tears and on the ground.
"Can... can you stand? Or should I take you to the nurse myself?" her head began to spin and she was sure she was hyperventilating.
The girl drew her hands away, revealing bright hazel eyes that were swimming with tears. Kagome felt even worse than before and began to fluster. Her klutzy self had done it again, this time to someone much smaller than herself.
A giggle caused her to cease all thoughts and actions and she zeroed in on the girl once again. Brows furrowing slightly, hands still raised in a position where she was more than ready to help the girl. Apparently, this caused the girl to let out another giggle.
Now Kagome was really confused. Hadn't this girl been crying just a few moments ago?
"Kyoko-san was right!"
"Wha..." how did this girl know Kyoko? Unless Kyoko babysat... That, and she had no idea what this kid was talking about.
"You really are a klutz!"
Lips pursed and blue eyes narrowed, Kagome contemplated the child before her that was now laughing. Taking in the girls appearance, she could see now why she had been thrown off. A dark violet lolita styled dress with a matching bow to keep her long hair out of her face, she really did look like a little angel.
She was suddenly rubbing her knuckles into the girls temples, not too painfully but enough to stop her laughter. "If I didn't know any better, I would think you were a devious kitsune spirit out to cause mischief and mayhem!"
The little girl stopped her complaining and whining only to grab her wrists, halting Kagome's form of punishment. Hazel eyes stared up at Kagome with wide wonder. "Do you really think so? Me? A likeness to a devious spirit?"
Thrown off at the eagerness and hope the girl was presenting her with. Only problem was, Kagome wasn't sure if the girl wanted to hear that, yes she did just compare her to a kitsune spirit, or no she did not. So instead, she pulled a different move.
Pulling her hands back, she flicked the girl in the forehead. "Did that tumble hurt you that bad? I said it myself. I thought you were a devious kitsune spirit out to cause mischief and mayhem." she gave an extra huff at the end of her little speech.
It quickly died though, when the girls earlier words finally filtered through her brain. "Wait. Did you just say Kyoko-chan? Is she here? And who are you exactly?"
The girls excited and blissful smile quickly morphed into a tiny 'o', like she had come to a realization. "I'm so sorry! My name is Takarada, Maria! I came with Kyoko-san!"
Kagome could only blink as the girl quickly spun up onto her feet, dusted her skirts and actually curtsied her introduction. But when the name filtered through, her lips pursed and the corners dipped downwards. Of course, that kept secret would spill into her life. She just hoped it was this child and Kyoko-chan, she wasn't sure she would be able to handle someone with a name and face high schoolers loved. Heaven forbid, if the President showed up.
"Well, Maria-chan, do you want to go to the nurses? I did run you over pretty hard, to which I'm sorry." Kagome herself began to stand up, dusting her slacks off before bending to retrieve her tray.
"I'm alright! Though... I am thirsty." the girls voice came out more teasing and sing songed, which to Kagome meant she was up to something.
Looking down at the child, she could only blink at how she was rocking on her feet which caused the skirts of her dress to ripple about her. Oh yes, the picture of innocence. But... Standing her full height, Kagome offered her hand.
"Then lets go to the rooftop, there's a cafe set up there. Something to eat and drink, my treat!" smiling, she canted her head to the side as she waited for the girls reply. "While you enjoy your treat, I'll call Kyoko-chan and tell her where you are before she worries too much."
Maria giggled as she accepted the hand and followed after the older girl. Her interest in Higurashi, Kagome had been piqued when she heard her Grandfather talking to himself about the girl, and then later spied on how he cornered Kyoko-chan to learn more about her. Still, despite all that, she still had no clearer idea than her Grandfather about Higurashi.
"Higurashi-san, can you tell me what you know of kitsune spirits?" Maria had been stunned when she had been scolded by the older girl in such a fashion, not only being compared to a spirit but the noogie as well. It was very... sisterly to be honest.
She watched as the girl turned blue eyes towards her as she navigated them through the crowded hallway before facing forward again. "Please, call me Kagome. And what is it specifically you want to know?"
"Alright, Kagome-san. I was wondering how you came to learn about kitsune spirits. Most people today don't believe in spirits unless something doesn't go their way." Maria frowned at the floor, her displeasure at her own comment.
Kagome hummed. "I grew up on a shrine, learning about all sorts of spirits, demons, charms and such."
The answer surprised Maria as well as plant a seed of some unknown feeling. "Is that all?"
When Kagome paused and looked around them before crouching down. "Would you believe me if I said I met a few?"
Maria's eyes widened at the whispered confession also tightening her hold around Kagome's hand. "Really?"
The question was full of excitement, eagerness and hope. An odd combination to be sure, for such a conversation topic that most would dismiss as childish fancy.
"Oh yes. The first one, and the one I've known the longest, was still very young and only able to perform more childlike tricks and illusions. But there were others, in fact, I stumbled across an entire kitsune school!"
Maria leaned forward a bit, more than excited at the shared knowledge, also whispered a simple request. "Can you share more with me?"
Kagome blinked at the simple question, wondering if it was in fact a good idea or not. It wasn't like she came across anyone from the past, most people would pass off her story as nothing more than that. But she had to wonder what this child would interpret them as.
"Why not, tea and a story." at the bright and excited expression, Kagome closed her eyes and took a page from Miroku's book by nodding sagely. "But only one story."
"Awww, that's not fair."
Opening an eye at the whine, she fought down the urge to smirk at the pout Maria was wearing. "You did run off from Kyoko-chan, so we still have to find her. And I'm more than willing to share another story the next time we meet."
She opened both eyes to gauge Maria's reaction. As expected of a child, the pout quickly transformed into a bright smile. "I accept!"
Playfully rolling her eyes, Kagome once again began leading Maria to the rooftop that was now a cafe for the duration of the school festival. She left with specific instructions to her fellow classmates while she went to the office to ask for the use of the intercom to notify Kyoko-chan that Maria was found and safe.
She could only smirk as she waited in the office, wondering how panicky her friend was going to be as she made her way to the office. Interestingly enough, she only had to wait a few short minutes to experience just that.
"Maa-maa, Kyoko-chan, it looks like you could use with a refreshment yourself." she teased her flustered friend, as Kyoko leaned heavily on her knees, trying to catch her breath.
"I... can't... believe... that... girl!"
Kagome continued to smile as she raised a brow. Shaking her head, she pushed off of the wall and made her way towards her tired friend. "Come on, she's on the rooftop cafe. How does iced tea sound? My treat."
Kyoko nodded her head as she stood up, still panting and exhausted after having literally run through the entire maze of stalls, booths and large stage looking for Maria-chan. Her mind having gone through all the various plays of how the President would take the news that his granddaughter skipped her own classes only to be lost at an unknown high school.
"You know, when I said you could bring a friend... I wasn't exactly expecting you to bring the Presidents granddaughter of all people."
Kyoko sighed as while walked next to her friend. "I wanted to bring another friend along, one I met while working at LME, but she was busy."
"Oh? Whose this new friend?"
Kyoko sighed with a happy smile in place, clasping her hands as her mind began to wander. "Kotonami, Kanae! She's wonderful! Such passion, energy, strength and acting skills! She actually reminds me of you in looks..."
Kagome almost missed a step at the confession. She was still licking her wounds when it came to her and Kikyo, she really hoped there wouldn't be such a problem between herself and Kyoko's new friend. "Oh? I hope to meet her soon then. If you speak so highly of her, I can't wait to meet her."
Kyoko herself was in high heaven at the idea of Kanae and Kagome meeting. The idea of them becoming friends had her light on her feet the rest of the way to the rooftop as her mind played all sorts of scenes the three of them could do. Slumber parties, shopping trips, eating out, styling each others hair and makeup!
It wasn't until she was seated in a chair across from Maria-chan that she was brought out of her inner musings. Blinking wide eyes, she took in the tall glass of ice tea that was in her hands to the milk shake Maria herself was drinking. Looking around her, she took in the clear blue skies above them, the other tables and patrons of the cafe, but there were no signs of Kagome.
"She and some of the others went to do something to attract more customers. Although, she didn't look to happy with whatever idea they came up with." Maria waved a spoon that had been given with her milk shake.
"How long was I sitting here?" she furrowed her brows as she took a sip of her drink, humming at the refreshing taste and soothing coolness.
"Oh, about a minute. They snatched her up the moment she gave you your drink." Maria shrugged her shoulders and went back to own treat. "I guess we'll have to wait until she returns."
Looking down at her drink, Kyoko tried to think about how different hers and Kagomes situations were. She was working in an entertainment company and Kagome was living the life of a regular high school girl. Sipping her drink, she took in the chattering students and potential future students. There was a larger table that had a group of school girls that were obviously a few years younger than herself. Kyoko sighed, wondering if she had gone to school, if she would be doing something similar to what Kagome was doing right now.
Would she be participating in a school festival to attract possible future students? Would she have fellow female classmates as friends? A few dressed in actual school uniforms walked by and she sighed at the lost possibilities.
Meanwhile Maria was eying Kyoko, wondering what it was about all this that caught her attention? It was just a school festival, nothing really special in her honest opinion.
"Oh that's right! Maria-chan, how did you get free time on such short notice?" Kyoko took another sip of her drink as she waited expectantly for an answer.
"Oh? I didn't. I simply snuck out."
Kyoko choked on her sip, only to cough as she tried to clear her airway. She couldn't be serious, could she? Looking at how she was more involved with enjoying her milkshake, she shook her head. Mentally groaning, Kyoko dropped her face into a raised hand. That meant Maria's teachers had more than likely notified the President, who was more than likely going crazy in searching for her if her memory of not too long ago were anything to go by. Which more than likely meant he was somehow going to learn she was here and show up, and that meant things were going to get... hectic for Kagome.
She stood up with a rush, startling all those on the rooftop as she loudly proclaimed her inner most thoughts for all to hear. "I'M SORRY KAGOME! PLEASE DON'T LEAVE ME OR OUR FRIENDSHIP!"
"What on Earth are you crying about? I'm not about to leave your or our friendship."
Kyoko let out a happy cry as she spun about to embrace Kagome at the words that seemed to soothe and calm her distraught emotions. Only to pause midway at the person that stood where she was sure she heard Kagome's voice. Instead there stood a young man around her age, wearing what one would expect of an English butler.
Taking the man in, her expression dropped. Standing in a proper stance, she offered a polite smile before leaning to the side thinking Kagome was behind him. She repeated for the other side, but could only blink when she saw no sight of Kagome. Looking the man in the eye, she could only blink at the bright red that stared back at her, she offered yet again a polite smile.
"Kyoko-chan, what are you doing?"
Rearing back so suddenly that she almost knocked into the person sitting behind her, she tried to calm down enough to go over what she was seeing. "Ka-Ka-Kagome-chan?"
Her friend let out a sigh as she brushed some bangs out of her face. "You'll have to forgive me. It seems some of my classmates decided we needed to spice things up after yesterdays count. They decided to have some of us cosplay as popular manga and anime characters."
Kyoko could only watch in shock as a brow sharper than one she was used to on Kagome ticked a bit. Hands in white gloves straightened themselves as she rolled her shoulders, it was then that Kyoko noticed the hushed whispering, coes and sighs had picked up the moment Kagome reappeared.
"Apparently the character they chose for me is a demonic butler of some sort. Sebastian Micheal or something. I really would have liked they had given me some more notice or chosen someone else." Kagome let out another sigh, it wasn't that she didn't mind, but it had been so last minute and her classmates didn't tell her anything about it. Shaking her head her to clear her thoughts, she turned her attention back to her friend. "What were you talking about just now anyways?"
As if remembering her earlier thoughts, Kyoko panicked at what was bound to happen in the immediate future. "I'm sorry Kagome-chan! But I think the President is going to arrive here sometime soon!" she threw herself at her friend, worry for their friendship once again at the forefront of her mind.
"Why? Oh. Because of Maria-chan?" both friends turned towards the child in question as she paused in finishing the last bit of her milkshake. "I already know. I contacted my Uncle who in turn notified the President. I was told it would take about an hour for them to be here to pick her up."
"Oh bah. Such a party pooper." Maria huffed as she pushed her now empty glass away from her and allowed her chin to drop in her free hand.
"I only did what was responsible of me, Maria-chan. Besides, I wanted to make sure you actually had permission to be here. When my Uncle sounded surprised, then I knew for sure you ended up skipping. I'm sure your Grandfather became more than worried when the school called him to let him know of your sudden absence."
Maria continued to pout at the sudden rain on her parade. Kagome herself pursed her lips, eyes flickering to Kyoko she decided on something quick and on the spot. "My shift is over, and I hear the drama club decided to do a haunted maze this year. Would you care to join me, my lady?"
Kagome placed a hand over her heart as she bowed in Maria's direction, a smile in place as she watched the excitement quickly grow on her face. The girl quickly jumped down from her seat and played along by returning the bow with a curtsy. "I would gladly accept."
Offering her hand, Kagome turned to Kyoko and raised a brow. "Are you coming along as well?"
"Sounds like fun!"
They left the rooftop cafe, ignoring the sighs of lovestruck school girls that remained. Or the group that had decided to follow after them. Kagome watched on bemusedly at how Maria took the entire maze in awe, not at all really surprised at the little scare she showed. There were moments when she jumped at being suddenly startled, but she was more interested in how everything looked in they daylight. Or if she could recreate it herself.
"I'm sure we can ask them how they made it all. It shouldn't be too hard, seeing as each class was given a certain budget to work with despite what they wanted to do." Kagome commented as she continued to escort her friend and newest acquaintance through her school festival.
It was when people began rushing down the hallways that Kagome knew the President had arrived. The same thing had happened when he... summoned her. When she spied a quick look at Maria and then Kyoko, and hearing their exasperated sighs, this was not new to them.
"Your Grandfather really does like to make an entrance."
Maria pursed her lips as they stood to the side while others quickly rushed by. It was while they were waiting for the most of the rush before making their way to where the excitement was, that three excited voices calling out Kagomes name drew their attention.
The party of three turned around and watched as another party of three was quickly making their way towards them. All of them wearing something or other to indicate their own participation in the festival. One as what could be assume ghost, one as a chef and the last in a simple black and white suit.
"Kagome! Looks like that limo is here again, going to make another... trip to see your Uncle?" the one dressed up as a ghost questioned as the two groups became one.
Shaking her head, Kagome replied. "No, the limo isn't for me. This time."
The three of them showed their confusion in various ways, one frowning, one blinking and one canting their head to the side. All Kagome could do was chuckled lightly behind a raised hand before drawing Maria to stand before her.
"It seems, the little lady decided to skip her classes today." she smiled as all eyes turned to the rather output young girl.
"Oh my god, isn't she just the face of innocence!" the chef giggled as she crouched down before the girl. Though she threw a sly smirk up towards Kagome. "Meaning if you're with Kagome here, you're just chock full of mischief."
The one dressed up as a ghost canted her head to the side as she examined the girl. "I remember you, you were the one complimenting the realism of our haunted house. I'm more surprised at the lack of scare from you, but thanks for the compliments."
"Who are they Kagome?" the one in the suit asked as the chef stood back up her full height.
"Oh, right, please forgive me. Guys, this is Takarada, Maria. And this is my oldest friend, Mogami, Kyoko!" Kagome smiled as she introduced the two to her friends.
The three girls gasped and gaped at the two, making Kagome chuckled nervously under her breath as she absently scratched at the back of her head.
"So -you're- Mogami-san!" the one in the suit finally spoke up.
As for Kyoko, she was unsure of how to respond to that other than with a nervous nod of her head.
"Oh it's so great to finally meet you!" the girl bowed with a bright smile, the other two following suit and Kyoko responded in kind. "When Kagome first moved here and we met in grade school, you were all she talked about. Even more so recently!" the one in the suit greeted first.
"Don't forget about that boy of a brat that seemed to annoy her... Toushu? Fosharu? Ah whatever, it is a pleasure at finally meeting you, Mogami-san."
"And as these guys seemed to have forgotten themselves," the one as a chef spoke up with a sly smirk. "I'm Kawano, Yuka. The ghost is Toma, Eri. And our maestro is Yoshino, Ayumi!"
"Ah, it's a pleasure to meet you all! Please treat me kindly." Kyoko bowed yet again to which they returned.
Ayumi turned to Kagome that still had her hands placed on the girls shoulders. "So are we going to face the music, or hope the crowd disperses?"
"I highly doubt that they'll clear out, at least not until Maria-chan is with her Grandfather." Kagome nodded her head to indicate the still pouting child.
"Pity, seems like someone doesn't want to go..." Yuka trailed off, though when she noticed where they all were standing she grew yet another devious smirk. "Hey, kid."
When Maria looked up, she could only blink at the smirk that was aimed in her direction.
"It's a shame really, all dressed up and not really getting to enjoy your day. If only there was a way to remember it..." she tried as subtle as possible to indicate the room she stood in front of.
Her smirk grew when Maria followed her hint and blinked. Her brows furrowed, not sure she was exactly understanding where the older girl was getting at.
"I mean, it's not everyday one gets escorted by a demonic butler..." she leaned down to whisper. "Even if it is cosplay, you have to admit, Kagome-chan makes for a stunning demon."
Maria blinked and looked up at the person in question, twisting her head to look over her shoulder. Kagome tilted her head in question and blinked. It was then that Maria took in the changed appearance, and couldn't help the light blush that over took her cheeks.
The magic of make-up made her femininely slender face a touch more masculine, adding sharper angles without it being odd. Contact lenses made her eyes an eerie red violet, and a wig styled so naturally she had not even noticed it was one.
Turning to the girl name Yuka, she stated clearly what it was she had been hinting at and agreeing with it completely. "I want our picture taken."
It was then that Kagome caught on and quickly glanced around, mentally groaning. Her friends were going to ask for copies, that was for sure. But she was also sure it wouldn't be the last. "Yuka..."
"Don't Yuka me, the girl knows what she wants. Now are you going to deny a face like this?" Yuka carefully pulled Maria towards her and crouched behind her, both pouting and pleading with puppy dog eyes at a grumbling Kagome.
"Fine! One picture, and then Maria-chan goes straight to her Grandfather!" she let out a quiet 'oof' at the sudden hug. "Yes, yes, you're welcome. Now let's not keep your Grandfather waiting."
Five minutes later, or what had been promised five minute but had turned into 15, of posing and promising to send the best out of the small photo shooting, Kagome escorted a rather pleased group to where the President stood waiting.
Kyoko, Maria, and Kagome could only let out a sigh at the outfit he was wearing as the other three that that had accompanied them stare in absolute shook. Not that they could blame the girls, or the others that continued to stare. The man was dressed up as if he were one of the three musketeers. Heeled shoes, tights and all. Well... no powdered wigs, thank the Kami for that, but it was still a shocking scene to see.
"Takarada-san, it's a pleasure seeing you again." at Kagomes greeting, all turn their attention at the cross dressing school girl that was holding Marias hand.
"Ah, Higurashi-san!" the man stepped back from his current conversation with a fellow student of the school to turn his attention towards his Granddaughter and the small group that she stood with. "I must say, you look rather dashing."
Kagome had to force the smile, really hoping this didn't prove to change her current situation while teaching Aoki-san. "Thank you, it appears I'm not the only one. Protecting the French crown or planning to usurp it?"
"Ah, you know your history. What if I were of royalty myself?" he raised a challenging brow, his smirk still in place.
Playing along, because with the President, there really was just no fighting it, she bowed respectfully. "Then it pleases me to return the little lady to his majesty."
As she stood up straight, she lightly led Maria to the Presidents side. While his smirk was still in place, he quickly assessed Maria, sharp eyes taking in everything. His eyes then turned to Kagome where he bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for taking care of her, Higurashi-san."
"It was a pleasure." Kagome then turned towards Maria. "It was also a pleasure to meet you. Hopefully next time will be on more... honest means."
Maria smiled as she nodded her head. "Don't forget, you promised a story on our next visit. And I want the best picture!"
Nodding her head, Kagome agreed. "Of course, I'll be sure to send it through my Uncle once it's been developed. But I do believe we've kept your Grandfather waiting long enough."
Putting on the face of an absolute angel, Maria curtsied one more time to which Kagome bowed in return and watched with a smile as the child ducked into the limo. When Kagome stood up straight, she reared back a tiny amount at the sharp gleam that entered the Presidents eye.
"Sir, before you leave, I'd like to ask you a question."
Mori hummed, pausing before entering the limo himself. "Yes, Higurashi-san?"
"I was wondering how much longer my services would be required?" she canted her head to the side as she waited for his reply.
"Continue as normal for the week, but I would like you to come in for something else on Saturday. Is that acceptable?"
At his maintained smirk, Kagomes felt her brows pinch the slightest amount as she wondered what it was he wanted, and more importantly, what he was up too. "I'm free then."
"Good, how does 2pm sound?"
"As I said, I'll be free." standing straight, she rolled her shoulders, mentally rechecking her calender. She had nothing planned, nor did her family, shrine or school, but she would have to check to make sure.
"Good, we can discuss it then. I'm also quite impressed with your acting skills, Higurashi-san." his comment caused her to raise a brow.
"Improv and actual acting are very different. I believe I was doing the former." she replied.
"You made the character very believable, the others would have to agree." when he swept a hand to the crowd that had been watching the entire conversation, Kagome mentally cried at the awestruck looks she was currently receiving. She had been right earlier, she would more like be seeing the photography club a lot more today, if not being asked to take personal shots with the patrons of her class' cafe.
"Thank you sir, for the compliment. I look forward to seeing your this Saturday." bowing again as the President bid his own farewell with a chuckle, she stood up and watched with the others as the limo drove off.
"Kyoko-chan?" Said girl turned towards Kagome with a quiet humm, indicating she had her attention.
"You've been working with the President longer than I have, should I be worried?"
Blinking at the sudden question, Kyoko canted her head as she contemplated a proper answer. "Well, I don't work with him personally, but to answer your question... Yes, so be prepared."
A quiet whimper echoed in the air that somehow ignited the excited chatter of the crowd behind Kagome and her friends.
It was finally Saturday, the rest of the week had gone of without so much as a hiccup. The school festival ended with a bang, where Kagome was forced to dress up as some sort of Chinese celestial maiden and bestow the winner of some challenge a wish that was within reason. Her friends had begun working on her portfolio, or blackmail collection in Kagome's personal opinion.
Kagome had managed to get a rather professional looking copy of the best photo of her and Maria sent to her Uncle to hand to Maria herself. She herself had been shocked to see what she actually looked like. Now she wasn't a narcissist, but she would admit, she looked pretty hot as a guy.
Taking in a deep breath, she mentally prepared herself for whatever was to come before stepping into LME. With the President and what Kyoko told her, there was no sure way to know what was in store for her. Her friends from school wished her the best of luck, and that she would succeed whatever was thrown her way.
Walking towards the front desk, she smiled at the receptionists that sat taking calls and typing away. "Hello again, Takarada-san and I have a meeting today at 2?"
"One moment please, Higurashi-san."
Nodding her head towards the receptionist she was currently interacting with, she listened with half an ear as she called the President up. A minute later her attention was drawn back to the woman. "If you could wait a few short minutes, someone will come to escort you Higurashi-san."
"Oh? Thank you." she found it odd that she wasn't simply directed to the elevators and told where to go, but that someone was going to collect her. Shrugging her shoulders, she figured it was simply how the President worked.
She moved to the side, thinking it best to step out of the way should anyone else need to speak with the receptionist, Kagome patiently waited for whoever the President sent down to escort her. It was as she let her mind wander after a minute that she was called out of her thoughts when someone called out her name.
"Higurashi-san!"
Blinking, she quickly scanned the crowd before blue eyes landed on a familiar pair. Pushing off the pillar she was leaning against with a smile, she made her way towards the two. "Tsuruga-san, Yashiro-san, it's a pleasure to see you both again!"
"You as well." Yashiro smiled politely as he returned the greeting.
"Extra lessons today? I thought it was only during the week." Ren spoke up, drawing the young womans attention onto him with his question, as well curious gaze from his manager.
"Oh no, the President set up today's meeting for, something else." her brows furrowed slightly as she shrugged her shoulders.
"Lessons? Meetings? I'm a little lost here." it was at Yashiros words that Kagome threw Ren a questioning glance to which he nodded his head.
"I've been teaching Aoki-san archery for the last month, for her upcoming roll in a drama. I think today's meeting will further negotiate how her lessons are to continue, as well as whatever the President wishes to discuss with me."
It still amazed Ren how grown up and mature Kagome could be. He still remembered Kyoko as an easily awe inspired girl that believed in fairies and magic. Kagome had been a bright girl, eager to learn and experience new things. Both had been accepting of him when they were children, and from the short time he had spent with Kagome during her time teaching Aoki, he could safely say that both were still very much the same at the core.
But it was also easy to see that both had been through something that had changed their outlook on the world. Or at least certain aspects. It was whatever happened to Kagome that was still troubling him. Ever since he accidentally walked in on her in the changing room and seeing those scars...
"Takenori-oji! Now the only person missing is Kyoko-chan. One of these days we should book a table for these meetings of ours."
Ren shook his head to clear his thoughts. He smiled at the small joke she spoke, though it was true, they were all constantly meeting like this on the main floor.
"Ah, sadly, this isn't personal. I'm here to escort you to where the President is waiting. Do you know what he wants to meet you in at our auditions stage?"
All eyes turned towards Kagome, were she stared with wide eyes towards her Uncle. Her brows slowly rose as she floundered about in her obvious attempt to form words.
"Wha... no! Unless he usually conducts meetings in such places, then I have no idea." she furrowed her brows and chewed on her lip, obviously sorting through her thoughts before she turned her eyes on him and Yashiro. "You two wouldn't happen to know what's going on, do you?"
The tone of her voice rose at the end of her question, highly sounding of hope that they could clear things up on the very confusing manner. At their negative responses, Kagome let out a sigh. "Well, guess I'll have to see to figure it out then. I hope the two of you have a pleasant afternoon!"
Ren merely raised a brow and wished her luck in whatever the President had in store for her. He watched as she followed her Uncles lead and discussed family business with him. Though his mind was more curious as to what the President could possibly be up to, and he wasn't the only one.
"How long have you known Higurashi-san has been teaching Aoki-san archery?" Yashiros question broke through his thoughts as they made his way to his car.
As much as he was interested in learning what the President was up too with Kagome, he did have work to do. "Since the beginning."
Yashiro raised a brow. "It never crossed your mind to share with me?"
"I didn't think it was that important." Ren shrugged his shoulders, it had been a month and most already knew the information and considered it old news now.
"Ah. Though it is curious what Takarada-san has in store with Higurashi-san. Guess we'll have to wait till tomorrow to find out and see."
As Ren was climbing behind the wheel of his car, he quietly agreed with his manager. "It would seem so."
Kagome in the meantime, was staring at the various forms in front of her. Perhaps rather dumbly as well, but she was unsure what it was the President was getting at. Application forms for the various sections of LME?
Looking at the man himself that was sitting across from her, she raised a brow. "Sir... I'm not following what it is you actually want from me."
She tried to ignore the outfit. He actually reminded her of those men that were painted on those cheesy covers for romance novels. Was he actually glittering?
"Please humor me, Higurashi-san." he leaned back into his chair, which looked far more comfortable than the one she was sitting in but that could have been due to the strangeness of the situation.
"Um... okay." chewing on the inside of her cheek, she took in the various applications. While her Uncle had given her a brief rundown of the others, she decided to stick with what she was familiar with and chose the application for the talent section. As far as she understood, it was pretty much a jack of all trades for the entertainment business.
The basics were easy, name, address, contact information and the such. The next sheet proved a little more thought was needed. What her skills were, hobbies, favorite class subjects, colors, food... word?
"Ah, Takarada-san, when it means favorite word... does it mean favorite word to describe myself, outlook on life or is it more general?"
"It's more or less in general." he watched as she nodded her head and continued to fill out the form. It was what came after he was more interested in, especially after what he had witnessed after picking Maria up from that school festival. He had not been that shocked in a long time, not since Mogami-kun first started working at LME.
He had pulled the others and requested that they treat this as they would any other audition, even Sawara-san. It would be interesting to see how the man would react, he was sure the girl would prove it entertaining once she realized what all this was for. It wasn't illegal, he had already went ahead and called the girls mother to let her know what it was he wanted to do and the woman said she would support her daughter with whatever choice she wanted.
Smirking at the memory, the woman did warn him if any harm came to her daughter or Kagome became upset for whatever reason, she would make her pay for it. The woman was fierce, and fiercely protective of her children.
"Well, it's all finished, Takarada-san. Will you explain to me what this was all about?"
Blinking at the girl across from him, he looked down and took in the finished forms. Quickly scanning them, his lips twitched when he noticed a few certain aspects that truly made the applications complete. A picture was missing, but more importantly, her signature. "You forgot to sign."
He continued to smirk when she rose a brow at his statement. "I'm not about to sign anything when I have no idea what's going on. I may be young, but I'm not stupid."
Chuckling, he handed the last sheet back to Kagome. "I didn't say you were. You already have your mothers permission, so you may sign."
Her other brow rose as she absently took the sheet back. "Does my Uncle know what's going on?"
"No, you'll be be explained after we're done." sharp eyes watched as she finally signed the form only to quickly sort it with the others.
"I still don't know what it is we're doing to begin with."
He chuckled at her huff as he stood up and beckoned her to follow him. The walk was silent for the most part, but he could hear some muttering from her every now and then. She really was such an amusing girl.
"Now, ladies and gentlemen, here's the reason that I've called you here today." he led Kagome to the center stage as he took his seat among the others. He only smiled when Sawara-san stared at him with a shocked expression. Seemed the man finally figured out what was going on. And from the stunned expression on the girl herself...
"Takarada-san... this isn't really..."
"An audition? But of course it is! Now please follow through with each task given to you to your fullest!" clasping his hands before him he waited for the show to start.
He had an assistant bring out a bow and arrows for the girl to wow the rest of the judges, when she was asked to up the ante a bit, she wowed even him by performing her last shot blindfolded. He was still trying to figure out how she did it, but perhaps when she asked that someone move the target to a safe distance away from everyone, she had listened to their movement.
With how Mogami-kun had reacted to the reaction test, and how Kotonami-san had actually bluffed her way through it, Mori thought it best to save if for last. One did save the best for last and he was interested in seeing how she would react.
So after handing her a different play script to an older drama that was before her time, they waited patiently for her thoughts and feelings on said script.
"And, Higurashi-san, what are your thoughts and feelings on the script?"
They all watched how she fiddled with the closed script as she thought about her answer. "I know that it's from a time before my own, so I may be a little biased in my answer, but I did find it interesting. I do think it's noble how the main character decided to keep their problems to themselves instead of wanting to involve others. But I also feel that if they had been honest with themselves, then they should have known that half the problems wouldn't have been present if they had been willing to ask others for help.
I also feel it would have deepened their relations with the people closest to them, as well as made them far more complex and human for readers and the audience. While some of the problems were handled well on their own, certain ones were problems that should have involved others in solving them. Then again, the times were different so perhaps certain problems were expected to be handled in different ways."
"And if this pertained in today's age?" the head of the modeling section asked.
"Then I stand by with my earlier reply." she replied with a bow of her head.
Matsushima spoke up, asking one last question before they moved onto the final part of the audition. "Higurashi-san, you said if they had involved others for certain problems, it would make them more complex, more human. Can you explain why you find that important?"
"Of course." she nodded her head as she stopped her fidgeting. "A script is the basics, or building blocks to any drama. But I found in this one, the main characters were far too flat and unrealistic. Such characters won't be well accepted by viewers and they would lose interest in the characters rather easily. Viewers like to associate with the characters that are entertaining to them. Of course not everyone can be pleased, but characters as a whole should be human regardless."
There were murmurs of agreement among the others, and as for Mori, it was something he had been wanting to hear for a long time. While it was always nice to hear compliments and praise for scripts that LME produced, it was nice and refreshing to get actual critique. It also showed that this girl was a thinker and how to relate with others.
"Alright, for your last task, think of it as improv. Simply react as you would if this were a real life situation." Mori, feeling confident about this one, leaned forward and got himself comfortable as he watched how a cell phone was handed off to Kagome.
Confused, Kagome accepted the cell phone, and with a quick scan of those before her, flipped it open and pressed it to her ear. She blinked at the prolonged silence, and despite how she felt like an idiot, she was going to call out if there actually was someone on the other line. The words that flowed into her ears shocked her into freezing.
"I'm sorry, can you ever forgive me?"
She floundered about with wide eyes, unsure of what it was she was forgiving this person for. Just as she was about to reply, it was what he said that felt herself shutdown.
"I was such and idiot, an asshole really for all the things I did to us... to you. I shouldn't have left you every time she called. My actions hurt you, my-!"
She snapped the cell phone shut and dropped it on the floor and left it at that. It was exhausting to hear those words, regardless if they weren't exactly the same or from him, but she had heard it all for too often to want to deal with them ever again.
"...Higurashi-san?"
"Unacceptable."
"I don't understand."
Turning her gaze to the one that spoke up. "It is unacceptable to ask for forgiveness after such... actions. Not only would I not give it, but I would not be in such a relationship where I was constantly hurt to begin with. Such a man, unable to stay loyal or be honest, should rot in the darkest pit of hell. Alone."
At the silence of her declaration, she blinked once before bowing and leaving the stage.
Everyone turned to the man that had set up the surprise audition, all mentally groaning at the look he wore, like that of a kicked puppy. Obviously, not the reaction he had been expecting... or hoping for. But it appeared that the President wasn't the only one shocked at the reaction, but so was Sawara-san.
Takenori was stunned at the lack of reaction Kagome had. She was in high school, high school girls were far more innocent, if not a little naïve, so they easily forgave their boyfriends for such things. But Kagome, she hadn't reacted violently at all like Mogami-kun, no. She simply ended the conversation before it happened and dropped the cell phone like a rock. It showed that something happened in the last few years that her family and his own had little to no contact.
Looks like he would have to call his sister to figure out what could happened to his niece.
Kagome sat in one of the chairs outside of the stage. She picked up a slightly outdated magazine and began leafing through the pages, trying her hardest to push back painful memories of a certain figure. It was actually quite a while later when they all came pouring out. She could feel their gazes, but she ignored them.
"Higurashi-san."
Placing the magazine back where she found it, she dusted her skirt off and stood to face the President. "Takarada-san, I see you weren't pleased with how I did the last task."
"I...yes."
"I see." she smoothed her hands down her skirt a few times before speaking up once again. "Will you tell me why you did all this?"
He stared down at her, eyes once again sharp and expression unreadable. "I will when you answer me why you handled the last task as you did."
Taking in his stance and masked expression before finally conceding to his... request. "I reacted the way I did because I would not accept an apology if I really were in such a situation."
"Why is that?"
"A persona can only forgive another so often. Especially when it involves such matters." she blinked at his furrowed brows.
"Such matters?"
"The heart. The relationship the man spoke of was an unhealthy one. Having a girlfriend and then someone on the side is really deplorable. To willing forgive him for his actions and then wanting to get back into that relationship? I would have to be some sort of idiot."
Mori took the girl in, seeing the steady expression and posture. She wasn't showing much of an emotion, which was exactly the opposite of what he wanted. It was much like Mogami-kun and Kotonami-san. Higurashi-san showed a lot of potential, but lacked that certain something.
"Before I leave, can we now discuss how I am to continue tutoring Aoki-san with her archery lessons?"
The sudden question broke him out of his thoughts. "Yes. If you would follow me, we'll go to a place where we can discuss this."
Kagome furrowed her brows as she followed the written directions of where she was to go. It was not the normal location of where she would go to prepare in tutoring Aoki-san, and not only that, there appeared to be a combination as well. Was she getting a locker? It would be nice to have a secure place to put her belongings while she tutored Aoki-san. And while she trusted the people that worked for LME, it was also nice to have that extra security.
Nibbling down on her lower lip, she followed the guiding system that she was directed to. She came upon an unsuspecting hallway, which led to an unsuspecting door where an unsuspecting locker laid behind. Shrugging her shoulders and thinking nothing of it, she followed the lockers until she came upon her assigned locker. Tucking the slip of paper into her skirt pocket, after memorising the combination, she opened her new locker.
A pained cry could be heard throughout the entire LME building, it's echo sure to haunt them for many a night, startling and shocking all employes.
"MY EYES!"
The more braver of those that were closest to the origin of the cry inched their way to the innocent looking door. Though those that recognized it backed away warily, already sure of what was to emerge from the depths of the locker room. Cries and whimpers from within along with the sound of scuffing and fumbling about caused more to approach the door to see the cause of the disturbance.
The growing crowd drew the attention of a few prominent members of LME, whether they be famous or shocking in their membership, to approach and witness the reason so many had stopped in their working.
"What's going on?"
A workers jumped at the sudden question, turning startled eyes away from the door only to blink at who else had been drawn been the strange cry.
"Ah, Tsuruga-san. We're not sure, actually. We heard a cry and came to investigate… but…" the man that answered shrugged his shoulders.
A few turned when more gathered, two specific young women to be exact followed by Sawara-san and the President. The girls looked highly confused, if not for Kanae still uneasy at being seen in her uniform, while the President seemed to have a pleased smirk. As for Sawara… he was mentally praying to any and all for the strength he was going to need.
The door suddenly burst open, a young woman stumbling out backwards as she pressed her hands to her face. Squeaks and scuffing as her shoes skidded across the floor when she tried to regain her balance while also bumping into people, all the while muttering under her breath.
"My eyes… my eyes… they burn!" she finally allowed herself to fall to her knees, face still hidden away behind her hands.
"Higurashi-san?" at the Presidents low timber blanketed the entire area, the girl stiffened as a whimpered.
All blinked and waited with baited breath as the figure still hunched in on herself to react. They didn't have to wait long, but many were shocked at her speed. From her spot on the floor, she shot up to the President, clutching onto him like a life line.
"My eyes… are scared for life! Blindness, I'm sure of it! The horror… the horror…" she began to shiver and to mutter under her breath once again.
The President chuckled, easily and carefully prying her hands off of him, using the chance to have her directed back into the locker room. "Mogami-kun, Kotonami-kun, please escort Higurashi-kun into the locker room."
Both shared a look before leading the frightened girl back towards the locker room, not expecting her to put up a fight.
"No! Please no, anything but that!" her pleas went unanswered.
At first she dug her heels into the floor, pushing against their tugging. When that didn't work, she spun about to reach out to anyone that could help her, but didn't.
"No… not the… PINK!" her last cry was muffled as the door closed behind them.
But the message was heard, loud and clear. Many prayed for the young woman and the curse she would now carry with her for the rest of her life. After a few moments, they began to return to their work stations, while that last four to show up remained.
Ren felt his eyes widen as the meaning of everything finally settled in his mind. He turned to take in Sawara-san and Takarada-san, one looking smug while the other was muttering prayers. It finally explained a few things that happened yesterday, before and after bumping into the high school girl.
"You put Higurashi-san in the Love Me section." it wasn't a question, but a statement. Ren finally relaxed, though his mind was running quite a few hundred miles a minute.
"Mmm, she was already hired by LME." Mori's reply was light, despite the situation.
"Based on her reaction, this was not something she was prepared for, or knew of for that matter." Rens comment drew the President's attention, sharp eyes were on him as if trying to assess him.
"No, she wasn't told of the details. Just that I would like to hire her on officially." the President drew himself to his full height.
Ren figured this was most likely the reason why he wore a rather elaborate King's outfit. To make Kagome's joining of LME… official.
A quivering female voice drew their attention back towards the locker room door. "I feel so…" they watched Kagome search for a word as she emerged clutching at the Love Me section uniform she now wore. "...pink."
Ren knew, that was not the word she wanted to say, but it was one way to describe her current situation. Kyoko and Kanae followed out after her, both looking odd as they each took a side and welcomed Kagome as the newest Love Me member.
"Thank you, please treat me kindly." Kagome bowed two her fellow members of the Love Me section.
It looked like the Love Me section gained it's third member, but Ren had to wonder why Kagome was in it as she offered a weak smile to Kyoko. While the three of them bowed their departure, the President told them to inform Kagome of her new duties and show her LME so she could get more familiar.
Laughter and antics echoed down the hallway towards them, drawing the mens attention to the three girls. Kanae seemed to be in the middle of rebuffing Kyoko's attentions who was also sobbing on Kagome's shoulder who in turn was trying to calm Kyoko down as well as smooth Kanae's ruffled feathers. Things looked like they were going to get... interesting.
AN: A continuation of the first Skip Beat Possibility! It struck me out of nowhere, but I enjoyed writing it! Read, enjoy, and review!