Kenzoku and the High Priestess' Mission

"Haaaaahh... This is the life," Yoh sighed contently as the tension in his muscles relaxed. He had never received a professional massage treatment before, and he definitely did not regret having such an open mind—nor did he regret not having Manta's level of modesty.

When Tao Ching led the group to the third floor and informed them that they'd be treated to a relaxing spa treatment before their meal, the teens had varying reactions. Pink-cheeked Manta had reserves when a staff of beautiful, older women greeted themselves at the masseuses. Ryu, of course, was beyond thrilled to discover that his body would be in the hands of the beauties in silky, slit-sided qipaos. Bankotsu and HoroHoro readily agreed, but without the same amount of vigor as Ryu. And finally Ren seemed indifferent.

"This way, ladies," A woman instructed Sango and Jun while gesturing to the room across the hall from the boys' spa.

After the teenage boys stripped, placed their clothing in separate baskets, and covered themselves with towels, the treatment began. Initially, Yoh did find himself blushing when the woman placed her hands on his shoulders. But the moment her hands went to work, he instantly melted and didn't have a care in the world.

"You said it, brother," Bankotsu concurred in a low voice. "I could get used to this."

Ren was quick to tell him, "Well, don't. You're not welcome back after today."

"Yeah, I wasn't asking for permission," Bankotsu countered as he closed his eyes.

HoroHoro, who wore a similar blissful face to Yoh, sighed and replied, "Ahhh, the bickering of children. It's music to my ears."

Manta sweatdropped when Ren and Bankotsu spoke in unison, "Pardon?/What?"

Subtle smugness entered HoroHoro's voice as he grinned, "No offense but it feels kinda good to be the mature one."

Ryu, whose eyes were closed as he received his treatment, queried from his bed, "Since when were you the mature one, HoroHoro?"

"Hehheh," HoroHoro smirked, "Wouldn't you like to know?"

As a bout of bickering ignited between HoroHoro and Ryu, Manta suddenly queried, "I wonder if Kagome-chan is doing alright? She disappeared with Tao Yúan after all."

It was then Yoh chuckled and smiled, "Honestly, knowing Kagome..."

"It's my father who you should be worried about," Ren finished.

Manta envisioned the dark, no-nonsense look on Kagome's face when she spoke to the Tao head and shuddered. "I-I guess you're right..."

Meanwhile, Kagome was standing at the entrance of the Tao hedge maze. "So...this is it," She murmured as she took in the area. It was far more than a maze. It was a garden where the walls of shrubbery sprouted exotic flowers that she'd never seen before. The grass was well maintained, and it seemed unaffected by winter's chill. The girl didn't have the intention of venturing further inside, but the entrance alone was exactly like Jun had described. So Kagome was sure that the dainty gazebo seated in the center of the maze was a sight to behold.

However, despite the splendor and beauty of the wondrous landscape, Kagome could feel nothing but melancholy. She pressed the tiny sack in her hands against her chest. "Tao Yúan, this is the place where Kohaku was murdered," The girl spoke with a forwardness that didn't suit the sweet pictures he had seen of her. "And inside of the manor...is where you made life miserable for my friends, and even more people in your family."

"Ah, I see..." Yúan muttered before his eyes briefly closed for an inaudible sigh. "You want to admonish me for the way the Tao family is run."

"Admonish doesn't even come close to what you deserve," Kagome cut in, her face back into a harsh expression. "But..." she eyed the Tao like an ex-convict. "That's not what we came here to do."

"Then tell me, High Priestess Kagome," Yúan matched her sharp tone. "For what reason did you request this audience with me?"

"Before you try to shirk responsibility, I already know that there are the traditions passed down throughout the generations," Kagome prefaced. "I know that you've only been following your predecessors." Yúan confirmed her with a hum in his throat. "Ren will put an end to the old ways once he becomes head of the family..."

She remembered the content smile that Ren wore during their Christmas party. "I know he will..." She whispered to herself. Kagome shook her head, inwardly reminding herself not to lose focus. She stole Yúan's eyes and hardened her voice, "But before then, you have to do better."

Yúan didn't bat an eyelash. He merely gave her a small smirk and responded, "To demand the Tao Head to change his ways, and in that tone—you're quite impertinent, aren't you?"

"I guess so," Kagome admitted shamelessly. 'I can't help it... There's so many things that I have to make right.'

"But such conviction is fitting of Ren's future wife," Yúan concluded casually. The man was amused when Kagome's face went red and the scowl was wiped clean off her face. "Yes, I'm giving you my approval."

"E-Eh..." Kagome raised her trembling hands. "Listen..."

"No," Yúan took her by surprise when he placed a hand on her shoulder. "Everything that you said was right. I was blinded by a thirst for revenge that I permitted atrocities in this family."

"Eh?!" Kagome stiffened when a glistening, moved tear gathered in the corner of Yúan eye as his free hand formed a shaking fist. 'W-What's with this change in demeanor?!'

"I'm ashamed that you children had to show me in the errors in my ways," Yúan suddenly took on a dramatic voice. "But I'm glad that he chose you. I look forward to the day that you become my daughter!"

'I thought Ren's Mom was bold, his Dad is on a whole nother level!' Kagome inwardly screamed as Yúan proceeded to usher her back inside.

"Come, come. As my future daughter, I'll show you my prized photo album!" Yúan told her. "I'm sure you'll love my favorite picture of Ren when he was a toddler!"

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

"Waaaah~" Yoh gaped with sparkling eyes at the feast spread across several, long tables. "You mean we get to eat all of this?!" He queried to Tao Ching.

"Eh, Yoh-kun, I'm pretty sure we're supposed to share with the Tao's," Manta sweatdropped as he looked around the grand lobby. The far walls of the area were aligned with tables and tables of scrumptious-looking delights while the floors were teetering with chatting Tao clan members. After their spa treatment, they were led to the lobby where a grand celebration was being held. "How did they prepare of this so fast?"

Ching was quick to inform, "We were planning to host a Shaman Fight Advancement Celebration for Ren once you all arrived." Manta stiffened as the elder Tao continued, "When Ren first left, we were worried that he wouldn't make any friends. But it turns out that he managed to make friends so wonderful that they came all the way here to rescue him. So now, this celebration is also to honor your friendship."

"I see," Manta replied before sweatdropping at the sight of Ryu flirting with a trio of beautiful young women. "Eh, Ryu sure has a one-track mind." He then looked left and right and noticed that he was suddenly standing alone. "Hey! Did you all just walk away without saying anything?!"

Yoh and Bankotsu were already at the table sides, responding to the attendant's inquiries about what they wanted to be served. Manta spotted Jun chatting with Ran with Bailong by their side. Another glance through the crowd revealed HoroHoro, who was seemingly standing alone with a plate. "Ah, HoroHo—! Heh?" Manta was about to sprint over to his friend, but paused when the crowd cleared up, revealing that HoroHoro wasn't alone after all.

The blunette was grinning widely and scratching the back of his head while using his other hand to extend some food to Sango. The Tao blushed softly and gave him a shy smile before plucking a tooth-picked hors d'oeurve from the plate. She popped it into her mouth and seemingly melted at the flavor. HoroHoro looked excited as he spoke to her. Sango then nodded and giggled.

"Ah... When did that happen...?" Manta wondered. Before he could ponder on the new development, Sango's eyes suddenly doubled in size and her lips parted. HoroHoro looked perplexed by her sudden shock and turned around. Manta too followed her line of sight until his eyes landed on a middle-aged man with brunette hair and brown eyes.

The chatter hushed and all movement ceased as the man walked through the parted crowd. His gaze was hyper-focused on Sango, so much so that HoroHoro had to make way to prevent a collision between them.

"Sango..." The man greeted, almost tentatively.

Tears suddenly spilled from her eyes as she responded, "...Father..."

"It's been a long time, Sango," He gave her a worn smile. "Far too long."

"Father!" Sango suddenly cried as she threw herself into his chest. "F-Father, where have you been all this time?!"

"Sango, I'm sorry..." He sighed and planted a kiss on top of her head. "It's about time that you learned the truth—the entire story..."

And it was there that everyone: friends, immediate, and extended family alike heard the truth about Sango's fate.

"Sango, your mother was betrothed to another man since her birth," Her father explained. "It was just a coincidence that we met when she was out on a mission in Japan. She was the most beautiful woman I'd ever seen, and I fell in love at first sight."

Sango closed her eyes and remained in his arms, content to listen, and not caring who heard. She wanted them all to know, just as much as she wanted to find out for herself. "Of course, the Tao family was against it. For a daughter of the main family to wed a foreign commoner—it simply wasn't done. But your mother didn't give up, she went as far as begging for their blessing."

Ching hummed from nearby. When he closed his eyes, he could envision that day like it was yesterday. Hǎiyáng threw her dignity to the wind and groveled with her forehead against the floor. It was Ching himself who told her, "Very well. You may wed your commoner—." He remembered the way she pushed herself upright with twinkling eyes. He also clearly pictured the way her face fell with his stipulation. "But as punishment, your children will be born into the branch family."

Ran pointed at her sister with her fan and added, "They'll have to earn their respect the traditional way, by proving their devotion to the family cause."

Hǎiyáng was mortified by the prospect. But Ching reminded her, "This is the only way we can prove that the blood in your veins is still Tao's blood."

"And so...the moment that you and Kohaku were born, you were to earn your rights to stand by our sides," Sango's father explained. "We couldn't help you, even if we wanted to." He remembered his wife's heart-wrenched face when tiny Sango ran to her side and wrapped her tiny arms around her legs. She had to force herself to jerk away— to walk away from the child she longed to see.

"Sango..." The teen was gently pushed back by her shoulders so that their eyes could meet. "Please believe me when I say that we didn't know how badly you'd been treated back then. When your mother found out what happened to Kohaku, she—." He averted his gaze, but Sango still saw his teeth grinding behind his cheeks. "She couldn't handle it, and threw herself to her death."

'That's why...! That's why I never saw Mom again?!' Sango's eyes widened. She was completely captivated by her father's account that she didn't notice HoroHoro's sullen expression. "...what..." She struggled to gather her thoughts and find her words. "...what about you...?"

"Part of me thought about taking you and running away, but..." His grip on her shoulder tightened. "I heard that there were already plans for your future status, so I ...I was a coward and ran away, all alone. Sango, I—."

Sango took a step back and placed her hand in a "desist" motion. "Father, that's enough. I thank you for telling me...it's a bit closure." She wore a wry smile, "I don't want an apology. What's done is done. And more importantly, if you had taken me with you back then..." Her eyes scanned the room. She looked from HoroHoro to Manta, to Bankotsu and Yoh, to Ryu, to Jun and Bailong, and finally, Kagome standing next to Ren and Yúan. "I wouldn't have met my kenzoku."

"That's right," HoroHoro finally spoke up. With one hand on his hip and the other on Sango's shoulder, he grinned at her father, "I'll take good care of San-tan."

"San...tan...?" The man blinked and looked between the two teens. "Sango...is this young man your—?"

Sango cupped her burning cheeks and looked to the floor meekly, "W-Well... Not exactly, but..."

"Heeeeeeeeh?" Kagome and Jun chorused curiously, suddenly appearing at her sides.

Jun hid a catty smile behind her fan and queried, "But what?"

"T-That is... H-HoroHoro is..." Sango stammered as her heart hammered her chest. Suddenly, she was surrounded by all of her friends. They tossed her mixes of curious and knowing looks, save for a somewhat bashful, blushing HoroHoro and a heartbroken, dramatic sobbing Ryu.

"More importantly, I wonder what's going on with Kagome-chan and Ren," HoroHoro suddenly pointed out. He mentally apologized to the priestess, who bristled when eyes turned to her and her face reddened. "She's had two private conversations with his folks today and came back looking chummy with both," he added in a matter-of-factly tone.

"Ahhhh, you're right," Yoh agreed while popping another appetizer into his mouth. "I wonder if the Tao's are trying to steal her away from us."

Ren shot Yoh a flat glare, "What's that supposed to mean, Yoh?"

"Heeheehee," Yoh snickered as he grinned widely, "Ah, I wonder~?"

'They took the bait so easily...' Manta sweatdropped as Ren shook a gleeful, spacey-looking Yoh for answers.

The celebration was full of chatter and occasional tension. Hiten eventually found Sango, who was scratching her cheek as she mulled over how to explain herself to Ryu. The ex-gangster was on his knees, sobbing at her ankles, asking why she and HoroHoro suddenly seemed so close. As soon as Ryu saw Hiten's smirk, Ryu jumped to his feet and was prepared to challenge him again—only for both teens to be shot down by Sango's father. Being older and more experienced, the man immediately recognized the situation that his daughter was in. He sternly informed both that Sango wasn't a prize that could be won.

Hiten didn't take it well and challenged his elder with the proclamation that Tao Yúan himself gave Sango to him, so she was his woman by right. Hearing the commotion, Ren pushed his way through the crowd and de-escalated the confrontation. With his arms across his chest, the scion spoke with absolution, "That nonsense that you've been spewing is null. There's no such thing as earning woman around here."

Kagome, who standing at Ren's side, felt her chest swell with pride, 'Yeah! Put that big forehead guy in his place, Ren!'

"Kagome-chan," Ran whispered as her hand gently landed on the girl's shoulder. The priestess turned her head to acknowledge the woman visually. "Come with me. Your mother is on the phone."

"Eh?" Kagome blinked. Ren, Bankotsu, and Yoh, whose ears had a preference for the priestess' names, picked on the soft exchange, discreetly peeked at the girl. "Okaa-san is?" Ran's nod prompted Kagome to follow behind the woman. 'Okaa-san knows the Tao's phone number...' She thought to herself before sweatdropping. 'So they really have been talking for a while.'

Kagome waved and smiled at the faces who smiled, nodded, and waved at her as she walked through the crowd. From Ching to Yura and Manten, and so many faces that she had yet to formally meet, Kagome couldn't help but feel a bit of warmth in her chest. 'From today onward, this marks a new beginning for the Tao family...' She smiled.

"Do you know what Okaa-san wants to speak to me about, Ran-sama?" Kagome queried as the two trekked the expansive hallways.

Ran stifled a chuckle, "You can call me 'Okaa-san' too, you know." She was quick to clarify, "But to answer your question, I do not. All I know is that she said that it's urgent."

Kagome nodded wordlessly. Her mother had always been patient and supportive of her wishes and whims. Similar to the hands-off rearing that Keiko gave Yoh, Kagome's mother never enforced strict rules or rushed her into anything that she didn't want to do. Thus, it was unsettling to know this situation would make her mother label it as "urgent". Her mother was largely independent and content with handling most things by herself, and she tacitly expected the same of her family.

The room that Ran led her to appeared to be a guestroom with a minimalist but elegant, Chinese design. A wall-mounted, landline phone awaited Kagome and the priestess wasted no time in plucking the device and placing it to the side of her head. She pressed a glowing red button and spoke, "Hello. Okaa-san?"

"Ah, Kagome, there you are," Her mother sounded relieved. "I'm sorry. Ran-san told me that you were having a good time with your friends, but I need you to return home immediately."

Kagome wasn't surprised to hear those words, "Okay. But can you tell me the emergency is?"

"We received a letter stating that the Supreme Priestess will be here in two days," The Higurashi matriarch replied. "She wants to speak to you in person to assign your first mission as a high priestess of the Imperial Family."

"Alright, I'll come home as soon as possible," Kagome agreed. "Thanks, Okaa-san."

'My first mission as a high priestess, huh?' Kagome thought as she and Ran returned to the festivities. The priestess wanted to be excited about the mission. It would solidify that she truly rose above her childhood self—the little girl who didn't feel like she had a reason to be a priestess. But the circumstances surrounding her summons were too uncanny.

No.

It wasn't just a personal audience with the Supreme Priestess that raised red flags.

Kagome couldn't remember why, but she had a feeling that something momentous would happen soon. When she was met with her friend's faces, she thought, 'I really don't want to put them in danger. But I know there's no way they'd let me go alone.'

"What's up, Kagome?" Yoh asked. "Did Grandpa get a tummy ache?"

The priestess chuckled and shook her head negatively. "No, actually. I'm receiving my first mission as a high priestess so I have to hurry home," She told them.

"Great," Bankotsu chimed while punching his open palm. "Let's kick some ass."

"Buffoon, you don't even know if it's that type of assignment," Ren replied flatly. The response instigated a glaring match between the two.

"Actually, since it's coming directly from the Supreme Priestess, it might be dangerous," Kagome stated. "I'd feel better if you—."

HoroHoro sighed with exaggerated exasperation, "Don't pull a Ren on us. We're not letting you go alone." He gave the priestess a thumbs-up, "And that's final, okay?"

Sango nodded and added, "HoroHoro is right. There's no point in trying that bit on us."

"If we'd come all the way out here for Ren, we'd do anything for you," Ryu pointed out, making Ren's brow twitch.

"Well, that settles it," Yoh smiled as he caught Kagome's eyes. "You're not alone, and you don't have to be." 'Ever again...'

Manta stepped forward, looking determined, "Don't forget about me. I'm coming too!"

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

A private Tao helicopter gave the teens a ride from the remote Tao manor to the airport, where they boarded the first flight back to Tokyo. Despite Kagome insisting that she had more than enough money to pay their fares back, Yúan held fast to his conviction. He handed the priestess a black card with her name imprinted in gold font on the front. "This is your allowance from your Tao parents," He told her with a smile that made her chuckle nervously. "Don't spend it all in one place."

Kagome tucked the card away and left the check-in desk to approach her waiting friends. "Ren, your folks are going all out," Yoh pointed out before snickering at Ren's red cheeks.

"S-Shut up!" Ren scoffed and crossed his arms. 'Being over the top must run in the family...' He mentally noted as he thought back to his sister's grand gestures. 'Nee-san... it's for the best that she stayed behind.'

The plane ride back to Tokyo was as comfortable as a twelve-hour flight in first class could be. Older passengers gawked at the unattended minors but the latter group paid them no mind. They were well aware of how odd they looked but they didn't have time to dwell over trivial matters.

They settled in their seats and were content with their activities. Ren and Manta became lost in the literature gifted to them. Yoh mellowed out to his favorite Bob songs. Sango was occupied by HoroHoro and Ryu competing to narrate their fights with Manten and Hiten, respectively. Lastly, Kagome was happy to chat with Bankotsu about anything and everything.

"So," Bankotsu gave emphasis to indicate that he was switching topics. He flashed Kagome a thousand-watt smirk while gripping his chin. "What do you think of my new haircut?"

Kagome paled inwardly, 'I-Is this a trick question?!' But on the outside, she smiled and nodded, "I never expected you to cut your hair so short but it looks good on you~." She settled on being honest, but without pressing further unnecessarily.

Bankotsu's smirk became a defeated but good-natured smile. "Back when you almost slipped up and told us what you prefer in guys..." He asked rhetorically. "I wonder what it was...?"

"Ban-kun..." Kagome whispered as her eyes lowered. "I'm..."

When he saw the way the priestess' mood deflated, Bankotsu was quick to stretch his lips apart and show his teeth. "Hey, no need to feel bad about anything," He told her in a low voice. "It couldn't be helped, right?"

Kagome nodded slowly. "Hey, Ban-kun..." Her voice stayed low so as not to disturb their other friends. She smiled softly, "I know this doesn't help how you're feeling. But, I wanted to thank you...for everything."

Bankotsu looked surprised for a moment before returning her smile. "Hey, what are friends for?"

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

Higurashi-san, Anna, and Pirika were the ones waiting for them when they arrived at Higurashi shrine. After the woman welcomed them home, she proceeded to prepare a meal for the weary travelers. Once again, the Higurashi house was full to the brim with the banter of lively teenagers. Despite the noise level, Kaede found that she didn't mind the extra company, especially when it meant that Kagome found a place where she belonged.

The only minor nuisance was Kaede having to drag her nosey husband away from the living room. The head priest was still obsessed with evaluating Kagome's suitors. The elder was blunt and honest so he didn't hesitate to verbalize his appraisals. "Hmmm, stature-wise, I think Bankotsu suits Kagome the best. He even got rid of that delinquent hair of his," he stated while looking Bankotsu up and down. The old man then moved to Yoh, stroking his chin as he sized up the Asakura. "Yoh here shows a lot of potential, but it's better safe than sorry."

The priest was unaware of Bankotsu's deadpanned expression, Yoh's blush and sheepish smile, and Kagome's twitching eye. He finally returned to Ren and squinted his eyes at the Tao, "This one has handsome features but he's awfully small."

'R-Ren, don't worry you're not alone...' Manta sweatdropped and offered a sympathetic smile when Ren was shot through the chest by an invisible arrow.

"Jii..." Kagome's voice lowered, becoming ghostly and dark, "Chaaaaaaan..."

Her grandfather turned towards her voice, "Yes, what is it? I'm bus—. Eek," He shrunk beneath his granddaughter's aura.

"Stop harassing my friends and meddling into my affairs," Kagome demanded in an icy voice. "If you keep bothering them, I'll never forgive you."

In an instant, the priest was sobbing dramatically into the floor as Sota patted his shoulder and told him, "Well, you shouldn't have been so mean, Jii-chan."

The remainder of the evening was spent similar to the Christmas party. But the subtle changes in dynamics didn't go unnoticed by Higurashi-san whenever she popped into the room to deliver refreshments. Sango, who used to put distance between herself and HoroHoro, seemed at peace as he chatted her ear off. Additionally, there was an unusual amount of space between Kagome and Bankotsu. Normally, he'd make a point of sitting near her, or facing her. This time, he was settled several spaces away. But it was apparent that he wasn't content with it, as his eyes were always aimed at the priestess.

And Kagome wasn't the only recipient of longing eyes and side glances.

Despite her projected apathy, Anna could be found side-eying Yoh.

And Pirika was obviously enamored by Bankotsu.

Higurashi-san knew that it wasn't her place to interfere with their relationships, however. She also believed that falling in love and experiencing heartbreak was a part of growing up. So she would allow things to happen naturally, come what may.

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

Kagome blushed as she tried to keep her composure. Her lips were in a twitching smile and her brow occasionally ticked. The Supreme Priestess was scheduled to arrive at any moment. Moreover, it was now that Kagome discovered that some of her friends were more anxious about the meeting than she was. She had no clue where they got them from but Ryu scrambled to usher Bankotsu, Yoh, HoroHoro, Manta, and Ren into Sota's room to change.

When they emerged and descended the stairs ten minutes later, the boys were dressed in fancy tuxedos of varying colors: Yoh in green, Ren in yellow, HoroHoro in pastel blue, Bankotsu in cobalt, Manta in black, and Ryu in white. Anna immediately averted her eyes to glare at the television. But if you looked close enough, you could see her burning ears. Meanwhile, Sango blushed softly before lowering her eyes to her lap shyly. Pirika threw her hands over her mouth as her eyes became large hearts. And Kagome took a moment to clap her hands against her warm cheeks. The priestess mentally told herself to get it together.

"As dreamy as I look, I hate feeling so constricted," Bankotsu remarked while performing a tentative stretch of his forearm.

Ren scoffed at the comment, "An ape in a prom dress is still just an ape."

"What'd you do say?!" Bankotsu instantly seethed. He placed a hand on Ren's head and squeezed it, "Poor thing. Keep that up and your ego will keep weighing your stubby legs down."

HoroHoro adjusted his tie and stated, "I don't know. I think I could get used to this~."

Yoh tugged at his collar and almost pouted, "I'm with Bankotsu on this one. This thing is kinda stiff and stuffy."

"Figures that guy who wears his uniform so sloppily would think that," Manta chuckled.

"Alright, men!" Ryu suddenly caught the others' attention. "Now that we're presentable! We can back properly back up Kagome-sama!"

That was what led up to Kagome sitting on a tatami mat, glaring down at her lap as she awaited the Supreme Priestess. Unlike the girls who merely posted themselves on the upper level to offer privacy, the boys followed Ryu's instructions and acted as hosts and bodyguards. While Bankotsu and Ryu stood on either side of the front door, Yoh and Ren were posted outside of the living room where Kagome was sitting alone, and finally, HoroHoro and Manta were instructed to act as servers, ready to wait on the priestesses.

'I can't believe they actually went along with Ryu-san's plan...' Kagome sweatdropped as her ears picked up on the sound of muffled voices. The voices were followed by the sounds of feet padding across the floor.

The priestess inwardly groaned when Ryu's voice suddenly called from the foyer, "Announcing the arrival of Supreme Priestess Takahashi Manami-sama!"

'A-At least she's a good sport...' Kagome thought when she heard the Imperial daughter giggle at the teenagers' antics.

A few moments later, Manami emerged on the threshold that separated the living room from the hallway. Behind her was a rigid-looking young man in a military uniform, standing at attention with a sword strapped to his waist. The man said something to Yoh and Ren and ushered them away from the doorway.

"Good day, Kagome-san. It's been a while," The woman greeted warmly. She was dressed in a more extravagant version of shinto priestess garbs, complete with her golden coronet.

"Yes, it's good to see you, Manami-sama," Kagome nodded as the woman took her place on the tatami mat across from her. "But you didn't have to come all the way out here. I could have come to you," she pointed out.

Manami shook her head at the idea, "No. I'm usually cooped up in the palace anyway. I rarely get the chance to venture outside so the pleasure was mine."

"I see. Well, would you care for some tea?" Kagome offered while gesturing towards the steaming tea set that her mother placed on the kotatsu a few minutes prior. From the corner of her eye, the high priestess spotted Manami's guard nodding his acknowledgment to Sesshomaru and Shippo, who hovered nearby.

"I'll have to politely decline," Manami raised her hand. "My diet is strictly regulated by the family dietician, down to beverages and snacks."

'Wow. Being a princess must be tough...' Kagome inwardly noted. "Alright, so, I've heard that you're assigning a mission to me."

The Supreme Priestess nodded affirmatively, "That is correct." She looked towards her guard. He wordlessly marched to Manami and handed her a manila envelope. The woman gave her gratitude with a silent smile. She then passed the envelope to Kagome. "This is your assignment."

As Kagome unclasped the top flap, Manami continued speaking, "All of the details are compiled inside of that envelope, but since this is your first time, I'm going to relay a brief overview of your responsibilities." Kagome slipped a thin stack of paperclips sheets from their holding. The first couple of pages appeared to be instructions about how to conduct official imperial missions. "I'm sure that at some point, you've heard of the mass disappearances of people around the world."

Kagome nodded, silently listening to her superior as her eyes skimmed through the papers. The following pages were a timeline of major events and a compilation of information from various high priests and priestesses. "Asakura Keiko recently contacted me, informing me that a vision of hers suggests that you will be the one to bring these tragedies to an end."

"Keiko-sama did?!" Kagome's eyes widened. 'I see... So that's why I was given this task.' The girl continued flipping through the pages, only for her heart to drop. Near the end of the stack was a report of the last expedition sent to investigate the disappearances. The report stated that the entire group suddenly stopped reporting during their mission and are presumed missing. At the bottom of the report, there was a small registry of the members of the expedition, complete with names, ranks, ages, and photographs.

Momiji and Botan's headshots were amongst them.

"Yes..." Manami confirmed, seeing Kagome's horrified expression. "Higurashi Momiji and Botan too were sent to investigate the disappearances. But unfortunately, their entire squad has vanished."

Kagome's fingers crunched and bent the edges of the stack as Manami continued, her voice becoming graver, "Normally, low-ranking priests suffice for such expeditions. However, this evil is far more powerful than we expected. You weren't just summoned for this mission because of Keiko's vision. We believe that only someone with your level of spiritual power can put an end to this."

"I understand," Kagome murmured, her words brief to keep her composure.

"Higurashi Kagome," Manami commanded the girl's full attention. "According to divinations of our best priests and priestesses, there are seven possible locations where the evil will strike next. Your mission is to track down this entity and do whatever it takes to stop it. You must report to me in the Imperial Palace within two days of accomplishing this." The woman took out a wand with bells that jingled when she pointed it at Kagome. "Do you understand and accept this task as an Imperial High Priestess?"

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

Needless to say, Kagome's friends were shocked to discover that she was going to be sent on both a wild-goose chase and a dangerous mission. "I've heard of these disappearances, they've been happening for a while," Manta stated, Higurashi-san and others nodded. "News reports that even entire towns and cities have gone missing."

"It sounds like this will be an enemy unlike any we've faced before," Ryu commented.

Kagome wore a stirred, restless expression, "It doesn't matter who or what it is. I'm going to rescue everyone, Momiji and Botan included."

"And we'll be there to help you," Yoh added while placing a hand on her shoulder. "Right?" He smiled at the faces of their friends. Ren and Sango nodded while HoroHoro and Bankotsu fist pumped.

"I appreciate it, everyone..." Kagome managed a small smile. "We're heading out first thing tomorrow morning so we should start preparing right now."

Sango, stopped leaning against a wall, and straightened up herself, "We have no clue how long this will take. I'll prepare some travel meals for us."

Ryu immediately cupped his hands as his eyes became pulsing hearts, "Allow me to lend a helping hand, Sango-chama~!"

"Hold up!" HoroHoro interjected. He jammed his thumb towards his chest and exclaimed, "I'm going to help San-tan, so she doesn't need your help!"

Sango's face deadpanned when the two began bickering. "I don't have time for this..." She grumbled as she headed towards the kitchen.

"Oh! I'll help you, San-neechan!" Pirika's arm shot into the air before she tailed the older girl.

The remainder of the evening was spent preparing for the upcoming mission. Anna opted to continue her habitual lounging in front of the television. Manta packed clothes, reference books, and survival supplies alike. As Pirika and Higurashi-san assisted Sango in the kitchen, HoroHoro took it upon himself to pack for himself and his younger sister. He then crossed his arms and asked himself, "Wait—. Pirika definitely can't come. It's was too dangerous." With that, he quickly placed her clothes back.

Yoh chatted with Amidamaru and Bason, having packed his bag relatively light. Bankotsu, who also packed lightly, played hand-held video games with Sota. Meanwhile, Ren spent a considerable amount of time exchanging texts with Jun about their upcoming mission.

"Don't waste this chance! A danger mission is perfect for showing off how cool you are, Renny!" Jun's avatar wore a cheerleader's outfit.

Ren almost rolled his eyes, but still gave a small smile from his sister's one-track mind, "This is serious. My main objective is to keep her safe."

"Renny, you've got to be more selfish! When the time is right and she's in your arms, lean in a for kiss!" Jun's text made Ren blush from ear to ear and scoff.

He jumped from Kagome's sudden voice, "Are you texting Jun-neechan?" The priestess was curiously glancing over his shoulder after spotting Jun's avatar.

Ren immediately hid the phone behind his back and barked, "M-Mind your own business, dummy!"

Kagome merely shrugged nonchalantly, "I mean, I already saw her avatar but fine, be that way." With that, the priestess headed for the hallway, "I'm going to finish packing in my room."

Once Kagome was on the staircase, Bankotsu looked away from his game and sent Ren a teasing grin, "Man, you really blew that one."

Meanwhile, Kagome wasn't surprised to open her door to find Hao sitting on her bed. "So it wasn't just my imagination," The priestess said to herself. "What are you going here?" She queried curiously.

Hao was quick to offer her a smile, "I've heard about your mission so I came to offer you a bit of advice."

'Oh...' Kagome blinked as she settled down next to the Asakura. 'Does that mean he's worried about me?' She wondered. "Alright, I'm listening," she told him, turning slightly to face him.

"This enemy is one who will use your own heart against you," Hao told her. "You and those children will see things that you'll surely find distressing, but I have no doubt that you'll rise above it."

"Well, that's pretty vague," Kagome stated before questioning, "Did you really come all this way to be cryptic?"

Hao chuckled at her, "Well, it wouldn't be any fun if I spoiled it for you, would it~?"

"I get the feeling the only one who'll be having fun is you," Kagome deadpanned before sighing softly, "Is that all?"

"Indeed, it is," Hao got his feet and moved to slide her window open. "You'll succeed, so there's no need for anything else, is there?"

Kagome watched as Hao climbed out and onto the Spirit of Fire's awaiting hand. Only when he was standing on the other side did she get up to stand at the window. "Are you sure there's nothing else you have to say?" She questioned while propping her elbows against the window sill and cupping her cheeks. "I doubt you came all of this way just to say that."

"You caught me," Hao conceded with a smile and a sigh. The pair were separated by less than thirty centimeters and the threshold between the chilly air and Kagome's room. "I had the overwhelming desire to see your face—the face of the girl who promised to save me," his eyes, which were usually guarded behind cynicism became hooded and softer.

Kagome couldn't help the flushing of her cheeks, all she could manage was a mildly embarrassed, "Oh."

"I'm counting you, my little canary," The shaman told her before the Spirit of Fire took the skies. His long hair flowed in the wind as they ascended into the heavens.

"...I won't disappoint you," She whispered back. "Or anyone else, ever again," she added as she thought about her friends.

Hao was right.

All that she needed was to believe in herself and her friends.

Their feelings were strong enough to get them through the darkest times.

'Everyone, I'm going to do whatever it takes to secure the future,' Kagome's thought spoke to the stars themselves. 'Even if I cost me everything.'

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

The night was young and quieter than normal. Everyone resigned to resting earlier than usual. The girls piled into Kagome's room for the night with Anna taking the bed as Sango, Kagome, and Pirika were content to huddle together on the floor. The living room was occupied by snoring teenage boys with HoroHoro splayed haphazardly across the couch. The blunette slept so wildly that his foot kept kicking Ren's cheek, as the Tao slept with his back against the front of the couch. Yoh and Manta fell asleep near each other in front of the television. And lastly, Ryu slept across the low table, his head cradled by his folded arms.

The only one who stirred was Bankotsu.

He laid with his back against the floor and his hands folded behind his head for hours.

He wore a scowl as he found his mind restless, against his better judgment.

He knew that he should have been sleeping, but he couldn't stop thinking.

Moreover...his heart wouldn't stop aching.

No matter what he did, no matter what he said, no matter how he acted—Bankotsu's chest kept constricting.

Every memory was painful.

From the first time Kagome turned and smiled at him to the times that he picked her from up the shrine.

Bankotsu couldn't see Kagome's face without feeling like someone was roughly gripping his heart.

'I'll stay by her side...' He told himself. 'She needs me, even if it's not how I imagined. Kagome needs me.'

Bankotsu groaned and pushed himself into an upright position. He scanned the dark room and saw no indication that anyone else was awake. The teen gingerly got to his feet then headed for the foyer where he slipped into his boots and hoodie. 'Maybe some air will do me some good.' Once he was settled into his light gear, Bankotsu opened the door and stepped into the night.

'A couple of years ago, I never would have thought things would come to this...' Bankotsu thought to himself. Everything that happened in his life had been a whirlwind. He'd fallen in love for the first time. He died and was reborn with supernatural abilities. He lost the girl he loved, found her again, and lost her again.

"Ban-san..." Pirika's dainty voice pulled him from his introspection. She was standing in the doorway, her lower leg wiggling left and right as she settled into her outside shoes. "What are you doing out here? Shouldn't you be resting for the big mission tomorrow?" She queried as he allowed her to join him.

"Eh, can't sleep," Bankotsu shrugged as he began a leisurely pace across the shrine grounds, Pirika by his side. "So I thought some fresh air would do me some good."

The moonlight reflected off the girl's turquoise hair, reminding Bankotsu of a shimmering sea. Bankotsu noticed how her petite form trembled even before she spoke with softly clattering teeth, "I-I see. Well, I'll k-keep you c-c-company for a while..." she stated as she rubbed her arms.

Bankotsu chuckled as he unzipped then shrugged off his hoodie. He paused to place it around Pirika's shoulders, somewhat amused by how it swallowed her like a morsel. "You ought to be thinking about yourself more," he told her with a half-smirk.

Pirika, in turn, melted into Bankotsu's warmth. A soft smile graced her lips as she whispered, "Honestly... I am looking out for myself, right now." She caught his eyes and confessed, "I know something's wrong, Ban-san, so I selfishly want to know. I..." her eyes became hooded as she trailed off, her lips pursing.

Bankotsu noticed the growing pink tinge in Pirika's cheeks as they stood there for a moment. Only the stars and the Sacred Tree knew of their midnight rendezvous. Between the serenity of the sparkling snow and the pretty, blushing girl next to him, he couldn't help but find the encounter to be romantic.

But that was the problem.

As picturesque as this moment was, Bankoktsu couldn't bring himself to act on it.

Instead, he gave the girl what she wanted.

"I cut my hair to say goodbye to feelings for Kagome," Bankotsu said as casual as a morning greeting. He saw the subtle widening of Pirika's eyes: the iconic "I knew it" look that he'd been receiving from everyone.

Everyone knew.

Of course, they did.

Ever since Bankotsu met Kagome again, he wore his heart on his sleeve for her. He resolved to be as honest and clear with her as he could be, because he believed that was the only way to get her to truly notice him. Merely waiting patiently for her to fall in love with him didn't work in the past. Being bolder and putting his desire into action only frustrated and mortified her. So Bankotsu held fast to the belief that he would put words to his actions, and then, Kagome would be his. It didn't matter if he had to confess in front of strangers, friends, or family. Bankotsu wanted to be considered, and he wanted an answer.

And after all of that time, Kagome had given it to him.

Not through her words—Bankotsu didn't need words to see the truth as plain as day.

"But you know..." Bankotsu couldn't bear anyone seeing him in this state, so he showed Pirika his back. "Part of me also hoped that if I cut my hair short like Yoh's or Ren's, Kagome would suddenly like me more." His gaze on the twinkling stars became blurry, the orbs wavering.

Unbeknownst to Bankotsu, Pirika's eyes were stinging and lips trembling as his voice increasingly weakened and waned, "But I instantly regretted it because, for a second, I had a vision of the future. It was so quick so I couldn't make out who it was, but Kagome was with some man with long hair, as long as mine used to be."

Finally, Bankotsu flashed Pirika a weak smile from over his shoulder. A thin, silver line aligned his lower eyelids. "So now, I really wish that I didn't cut my hair. It didn't make her love me, and it didn't make me forget my feelings for her..." He stated, more to himself than to the girl who was fighting tears before him.

Pirika's shoulders trembled and she hiccuped in a high-pitched wail, "B-Ban-san, I'm so, so sorry...!"

Bankotsu looked bewildered as he sighed through his nose. He finally turned to face her completely. "What are you sorry for you? You did nothing wrong, Piririn."

Pirika's head bowed at his words. "But I did..." She whispered. Unable to meet his eyes, it was her turn to confess, "Honestly, I prayed that things wouldn't work out between you and Kagome-neechan." It sounded worse when she said it aloud. Still, her watery eyes met his again as she exclaimed, "It's selfish but I wanted you all to myself, because I like you!"

This wasn't how Pirika pictured her first love confession. She didn't dream of admitting that she wanted her crush to be rejected so she could steal his heart from himself. None of her fantasies involved the heartbroken look on Bankotsu's face as he spilled his heart to her.

And she certainly didn't expect the crushing weight on her chest as she stood beneath Bankotsu's impassive eyes. Only for a split second did he look surprised. But it was fleeting before his face stiffened into something unreadable, almost stoic. His thoughts were so inscrutable that Pirika could only feel the painful pounding of her heart.

It wasn't the usual rush that she felt around him.

This was uncomfortable and anxious.

The desperation on Pirika's face when she blurted out her feelings melted into dejection. Her shoulders loosened as her eyes lowered to her feet. '...this is what I deserve...' Pirika told herself. 'A rejection as painful as Ban-san's...' Her eyes closed in resignation. 'Ban-san, it's okay. You don't have to humor me anymore...'

Pirika's eyes snapped open when Bankotsu suddenly broke into a light fit of chuckles. When she threw him a hurt glance, he immediately raised a hand, "S-Sorry, it's not what you think. I'm not laughing at your feelings."

"W-What's so funny then...?!" Pirika squeaked, her bottom lip protruding.

"Well, it was kinda weird to admit something so selfish before confessing your feelings," Bankotsu explained with a lopsided smile. "What kinda plan did you have there?"

"Uh..." Pirika's cheeks burned as she shuffled and squirm, "I-I didn't... It just came out in the moment."

"Eh, I don't blame ya. All of that stuff about my hair just kinda came out too..." He replied. "Sorry to unload that on you, especially when I knew how you felt."

"It's okay," Pirika told him as she straightened up and smiled. "I didn't lie when I said that I want to know everything about you, Ban-san." She took on a shy pose as she added, "And, I really do like you. So I don't mind if you lean on me."

"How cute." Pirika's cheeks burned when Bankotsu grinned toothily and stated, "You know, if I weren't so hung up on Kagome, I'd make you my little girlfriend."

For a second, her jaw dropped, but she quickly recovered when Bankotsu began heading back towards to the house, "Wait! Really? Do you really mean that, Ban-san?!"

Bankotsu wasn't blind. It was adorable how she shadowed him like a puppy. "I mean everything I say, Piririn," He replied nonchalantly.

Pirika tried to contain her giddy smile, "Okay! Then I'll be waiting~!"

Bankotsu stifled a chuckle. His heart was, by all means, still broken.

And he knew that it would take some time to properly heal.

But when Pirika was bold enough to wrap her arms around his and cuddle closely to him, he couldn't help but smile. 'I'll be waiting too, Kagome...' He thought to himself. 'For the day that these feelings fade away.'

S.H.A.M.A.N.K.I.N.G.

They awoke with the rising sun.

The moment that the rays peeked through Kagome's window, her eyes snapped open.

She was ready.

The priestess looked around the room.

Sango was already changing out of her pajamas and into a new fighting suit.

Anna was pushing herself up in bed, looking groggy and agitated by the sun's rude awakening.

Pirika was smiling sleepily at her, "Good morning, Kagome-neechan."

"Good morning, everyone," Kagome greeted back before she got to her feet. Having bathed with Sango and Pirika the night before, the priestess immediately began changing into her high priestess garbs. It was largely similar to traditional priestess clothing, save for the decorative red ribbons at her haori's sleeve hems. She completed the outfit by fixing her silver coronet to her head, sliding the claws between her tresses to keep it steady.

Once they were presentable, the girls marched down the stairs towards the living room, where the boys were waiting, each one dressed in fighting gear.

Yoh and Ren immediately blushed upon seeing Kagome. While Ren had to force himself to peel his eyes away, Yoh easily smiled and praised, "Kagome, that outfit really suits you. It's pretty~."

Kagome blushed as Anna crossed her arms and replied flatly, "It's way too early for blatant flirting."

Yoh laughed bashfully while scratching the back of his head, "I wasn't trying to flirt. I was just saying." He winced when Manta suddenly interjected teasingly.

"A shameless flirt."

Bankotsu was quick to add, "A true natural flirt."

"Heh?" Yoh looked from Manta to Bankotsu with a shocked, flustered expression, "Heeeeeeh?" He then looked at Kagome, who covered the lower face of her face with her long sleeve.

"Please refrain from flirting with me so early," Kagome put on a faux modest tone and soft, demure look. "It's embarrassing..." She added the maidenly appeal by averting her eyes.

The act that was intended to tease and embarrass Yoh backfired and made Ren's, Yoh's, Ryu's, and Bankotsu's hearts skip a beat.

Seeing their entranced, blushing faces, Kagome immediately dropped the act and waved her hand dismissively, "You guys realize that I was joking, right?"

Pirika cupped her hands and whispered to Sango, "Kagome-neechan sure underestimated her moe powers." Sango nodded in agreement.

The boys returned to normal after HoroHoro wagged a finger at Kagome, one hand on his hip, "Kagome-chan, you've come a long way but that act will never work on me."

"As if she wants it to," Bankotsu and Ren replied flatly, prompting the Ainu to turn and yell at them.

Meanwhile, Yoh scratched the back of his head again and admitted, "I knew that it was pretend, but it was still too cute to resist." He flinched when Manta's voice muttered again,

"A shameless flirt."

Kagome chuckled and shook her head, "Well, everyone. We should get going. We've got a lot of places to check." She then headed for the door with her friends in tow.

"Kagome, let me carry your bag," Yoh offered as he gently swung her small yellow bag over his free shoulder.

Ren tensed as his brow twitched, 'Damn, you Yoh! You beat me to it!'

"Tch, looks like Renny wanted to be the gentleman but was too slow on the uptake again," Bankotsu teased as they filed outside into the courtyard.

"Oh, jeez," Sango sighed as she wondered, "Will those boys ever stop?"

Kagome chuckled and shook her head, "Probably not. But it's endearing in a way."

Despite the chatter, Pirika and Anna, who were standing in the doorway, still received numerous nods and waves as the group departed.

The procession's banter was interrupted by an unfamiliar voice. Heads instinctively tilted upward, aiming towards the source of the words, "You're finally ready. I've been waiting for you, Mother."

Kagome's eyes widened when they spotted the form standing atop of a Goshinboku branch. Despite the smeared mass of memories of her current life and her first one, her neurons fired and recognized the child that was perched in the Sacred Tree. From his snow hair to his lilac eyes, ashen skin, and antiquated white clothing, he was unmistakable.

The child noted the flash of recognition on the priestess' face and smirked, "I knew you wouldn't forget me." He hopped from the branch and landed on the ground with astounding ease for someone of his age. "It's been a while," the boy greeted nonchalantly as he strutted towards the group. He stopped in front of Kagome, "How about a proper greeting, Mother?"

"Eh?" Kagome gasped, but her surprise was muffled by her friends' louder, animated reactions as many chimed, "WHAT?!"

She sweatdropped as Yoh cut in, his fingers wriggling like unsettled worms, "K-Kagome, that boy just called you his Mother! What does he mean by that?!"

"I think it's pretty obvious what that means," HoroHoro looked seriously as he gripped his chin speculatively.

Kagome's cheeks burned as Ryu, Yoh, and Manta's faces betrayed shock as Bankotsu's and Ren's faces expressed agitation. She turned towards her friends, of which only Sango and HoroHoro appeared relatively calm, and cried, "Come on, you guys! You can't possibly think that I—!"

The priestess froze when the boy suddenly stood as a barrier between her and the others. His smirk was impish as he suddenly wrapped his arms around her neck and placed his head against her collarbone, a feat easily executed because he was a head shorter than her. While hanging from Kagome's neck, he turned challenging eyes towards the group, "It means exactly what you think it means."

"Okay, brat," Bankotsu huffed as he stepped forward and grabbed the back of the boy's top. He held the child in the air and glared at him, "What kinda BS are you trying to pull here?"

With his arms crossed, Ren stepped forward and added, "I'd like to know the same thing." He looked at the defeated, pale Yoh and pointed out, "That kid is obviously way too old to belong to Kagome."

It was then Yoh's soul returned to his body. His skin tanned and aura brightened as he beamed, "Y-You're right! Kagome hasn't even made fourteen yet! She can't possibly have a child that big!"

Ren and Sango gave the Asakura deadpanned, incredulous looks but turned their attention back to the child that jerked away from Bankotsu's grip. He landed at Kagome's side and linked arms with her. "I can guarantee that I was born of Higurashi Kagome. My name is Hakudoshi."

Authoress' Notes: Whoop, whoop. I know that this chapter seemed somewhat uneventful but bear with me. I'm very excited to write the next chapter, I've been looking forward to it for a long time! Please be patient with the next update, as I suspect that it'll be on the longer side so it might take longer than normal to publish! It might be on the heavier side, but after the next chapter, we'll have many chapters dedicated to romance, friendship, fluff, and all-around good feels!

Additionally, I couldn't help but have Kagome think about Hiten's big forehead. It was omitted in the anime but sassy manga Kagome mentally roasted him so I couldn't help myself. Lastly, the song for Bankotsu unloading his heart is called "I can't return your feelings".