InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu Yu Hakusho Fan Fiction ❯ Not the Only One ❯ Reunited ( Chapter 22 )

 

I don't own Inuyasha or Yu Yu Hakusho. That pleasure belongs to their rightful owners, Rumiko Takahashi and Yoshihiro Togashi!

 

I've told you guys my life is like a bad shoujo manga before, right?

Well, here's proof! On the morning before I was due to go to Japan, what was on the news?

Earthquakes.

In Japan.

I won't go into the blur of the 24-hrs that followed, but basically the trip was called off. I was gutted, as you can imagine, and while I stood at the bottom of the stairs in shock after `the' phone call, my part maths teacher part travel agent kaa-san rushed about and managed to secure me the last seat on their plane in two days time, so I could join them on their cruise of Italy.

Needless to say, I hoped it was all a bad dream. I wandered about for a while after, my body clock still ticking to Tokyo time! But I finally pulled myself together (please understand I've been waiting for this trip for two years!) and enjoyed the cruise!

It's not all bad news though, because we're hoping to re-arrange Japan, maybe at Easter or this time next year.

It's amazing what can happen in 24 hours!!

Arigato to everyone who wished me happy birthday and a good trip- it meant a lot to me, when I was having a tough time!!

 

Ooh, who'll get the 400th review on MediaMiner? The lucky reader can request a scene, and I promise to fit it in sometime in this fic! (no early lemons though- can reveal I have FOUR lemons planned, so any ones requested will need to be after them!)

Arigato again for all your reviews! Ai shiteru!

 

Know the lingo!:

Ningen: human

Nani: what

Kami: god

Arigato gozimasu: thank you very much

Hai: yes

Hajimemashite: Nice to meet you

Doozo yoroshiku: literally- may I ask you to be kind to me. Just one of those cool, polite things the Japanese do!

Mina: everyone

 

Chapter 22

Reunited

 

 

Ever since he was six months old, still a vulnerable baby in his mother's stomach, Suuichi's mind hadn't been his own. His soul also did not belong only to him. It was fused, merged, intertwined and connected, with a kitsune bandit called Yoko Kurama. Of course, growing up, young Suuichi didn't realise this. He believed he was better than everyone, because he was a youkai, and mere ningen were beneath him.

Including his mother.

Nobody in the world has a perfect storybook childhood that they can look back on fondly, without a few cringes or regrets. For Kurama, there were few fond memories, during his early years.

“Suuichi-kun,”

The woman whose womb the bandit had taken refuge in four years ago looked at him with weeping violet eyes.

“Nani?” the kitsune avatar replied coldly.

“Your father…he didn't make it…”

“That man…is not my father. And you, you are not my mother…”

He was bidding his time. He only had to wait another six years, and then he could be free. But only a year later, an unprecedented change occurred…

“Suuichi-kun! Are you alright?”

“I-I'm fine! But…you've bleeding! You've cut all your arms!”

“Oh, Suuichi-kun! I'm just glad you're alright!”

“Mother…”

Kurama had felt thoroughly disgusted at his behaviour after his mother's selfless act, and made a drastic change in his character. He realised he had put more effort into resisting his mother's love than accepting it, and therefore, it was actually a relief to let down his barriers.

The kitsune avatar hadn't felt that overwhelming plunge of self-disgust since his mother's near death- until now.

For Kami's sake, Suuichi, it's all in the past!

What does it matter, Yoko? You might be able to look Kagome in the eye, but after knowing what you done…how you treated that poor female…

I didn't want it!

Well, you should have put up more of a fight then, shouldn't you??

Kurama sighed as he put the shower on full blast, hoping to wash off the dirtiness he felt. He unconsciously watched the soap suds drip down his chest, as he slid down the frosted glass. His crimson hair looked like blood sticking to his arms and shoulders, and Kurama started as he picked out a few pure silver strands amid the red.

Yoko? What do you think you're doing??

Stop wallowing, Kurama! We've all made mistakes, you know! And these were mine, not yours!

The kitsune avatar blinked, the steam wafting around him scarily like Yoko's transformation youki. Yoko only called him Kurama when he was being deadly serious.

Alright…I'll try and forget about it…

Good. Now, how about I show you some better memories?

Kurama ran his finger over the condensation on the glass, creating a clear wave among the clinging water drops.

Yoko…perhaps it would be better if you kept your memories to yourself…

Ah…but these really belong to both of us…

Kurama gasped, his almond eyes struggling to stay open as a familiar figure leaned against a tree, completely topless…

 

 

Kurama took deep breaths as he reached the shrine steps. He was perspiring slightly, due to the anticipation of meeting Kagome and the rush of trying to get ready after certain flashbacks-

I wish you had kept track of time, Yoko…

Oh, it was worth it though, wasn't it?

After giving the taxi driver a small wave, Kurama made his way up the steps. Yoko had skipped out the part concerning Kagome's dress- he wanted to let Suuichi see it for himself.

You're nervous again…

No thanks to you…

After running his hand over his lips, Kurama pressed the doorbell, giving two sharp buzzes. His mouth was unfamiliarly dry, and he could feel his hair sticking to the back of his neck.

There was a scraping of a lock, the smooth click of a handle, and the door was pulled back to reveal the miko in all her glory.

“K-Kagome…”

There was too much of her to drink in without saying anything else, and Kurama could have simply stood for hours trying to embroider the vision to his brain.

The miko's sleek, magpie hair cascaded over her bare shoulders like upturned ink; hints of sapphire blue rippled over her locks in the breeze. Her hazelnut eyes were outlined in a smoky black, and her soft eyelashes held the same colour. At her throat was a thin and delicate choker, studded with dark amethysts and crystals in flower-like shapes. They correlated beautifully with her strapless dress, which was a deep royal purple, cinched in at the waist by a silver sash tied in a bow at the back. The outlines of silver flowers patterned the dress, and were picked out by the choker, and also by the encrusted bracelet that dripped off her wrist. The hem of the dress was finished with a thin silver netted frill, and the miko's long legs were amplified by the silver vamp heels she wore.

Kagome blushed gracefully at the sight of the wide-eyed avatar, before greeting him properly. “Hello, Kurama-kun,” she giggled, and her long, glittery earrings caught the light, “How are you?”

Kurama was still trying to find his tongue, but luckily, or unluckily, Yoko kicked into action, and smoothly replied, “All the better for seeing you, Kagome. And how are you?”

“Ready to go,” Kagome beamed, “And also better for seeing you, Kurama-kun,”

The miko left a trail of sparkles as she bustled off to get her things, and Kurama followed like an enchanted snake.

 

 

Kagome located her belongings with fumbling fingers- did Kurama notice how she was slightly shaking?

Oh my kami…he looks absolutely gorgeous…I think this outfit was a mistake…is it too much? Too little?

In her own nervousness, Kagome had totally overlooked Kurama's awe, and as she returned to the kitsune who was waiting politely by the stairs, she was trying so hard not to stare her eyes were watering.

“Let me take that for you,” Kurama said softly, relieving Kagome of her bag. At that moment, her mother and grandfather came in, and while the three greeted each other, Kagome indulged in a little Kurama gawping.

His scarlet hair, which always fascinated Kagome, seemed especially vibrant today. The miko concluded that, on anyone else, Kurama's fox-tail like hair would look a mess, but on the avatar, it looked sublime.

He was wearing a white Chinese-style fighting outfit, with green cuffs and collar. The beautiful buttons were actually small circular emeralds, and seemed to draw their colour from Kurama's eyes. A light lilac sash, knotted on the right side, completed his outfit, and Kagome wondered if Yoko had added that little touch to compliment her dress.

“Kagome-chan?”

“H-hai?” Kagome was brought back to reality by her mother pressing a blue satin gift wrapped box into her hand, “Don't forget the present! It's a set of Kyoto glass-blown bowls, so make sure you don't drop them!”

“Hai, mama. Arigato!”

As the pair made their goodbyes, Kagome's mother put her hand lightly on Kurama's shoulder, and said discreetly, “I'm trusting you with my daughter, Kurama-kun. Please don't abuse my trust,”

Kurama presented her with a small posy of flowers, and promised that he would guard Kagome with his life.

Well dodged…

 

 

The taxi ride was a short one, and their train was right on time. Kagome and Kurama easily found an empty compartment. After the kitsune stored their luggage, he sat opposite the miko, who was peering out the window as the pulled out of the Tokyo station.

“I've never travelled in this direction before,” Kagome commented.

“Sarayashiki isn't as built up as Tokyo,” Kurama replied, “You can see some nice scenery by train,”

But even better scenery inside…

Indeed…

Kagome felt Kurama's gaze rest upon her, and she kept her eyes fixated to the window. While she appeared to be looking outside, she was actually watching Kurama watch her. It was a tingling experience. She waited for him to break the silence they had woven togther.

“I never got the chance to tell you how wondeful you look. Yoko's jewels are simply divine on you,”

The compliment was so out of the blue Kagome forgot to look out the window and turned to hold Kurama's eyes.

“A-arigato,” Kagome stumbled over her words, “You look wonderful too, Kurama-kun,”

The kitsune laid his palms flat down on his white-clad thighs with a chuckle, “You might be wondering why I am dressed like this though, neh? I had planned to wear a normal shirt and tie, but Yusuke informed me a lot of our friends from Makai will be paying a visit- and in order to make them feel more at ease, he asked us to dress accordingly,”

“You mean- a lot of youkai?” Kagome asked, surprised, “Won't Keiko's family…notice?”

“I believe Hiei's agreed to preform some sort of disguise cast over the youaki present, so the humans there will see them as humans, too,”

Kagome tilted her head in interest. “How did they make him agree to that?”

Kurama chuckled as he remembered the conversation with Yusuke, “Well, that was another reason why fighting dress had to be added to the dress code…apparently Hiei refused to wear a shirt and tie, but he did, begrudly, agree not to bring his katana…”

Kagome giggled, remembering the fiesty little demon who had threatened to kill her on their first meeting. Somehow, she doubted a sword would make him less intimating.

“So, do the other youkai know?” Kagome suddenly asked, “That I'm a miko?”

The kitsune avatar studied the girl across from him intently. She was worrying her lip, and looked rather nervous. “Kagome…” Kurama reached across and touched her knee, “You have nothing to fear whatsoever. These youkai are all my friends, and they would never hurt someone close to me, miko or not!”

At that moment, Kagome flushed, the light touch of Kurama's fingertips on her knee warming her whole body like a moth to the flame. There was a suspended moment in which the two of them seemed to move, without actually moving at all…and then a harsh sliding of metal made the pair jump.

“Ooh…excuse us, ladies…” A clearly drunk teen male and his friend blinked into the carriage, as if they had walked into a show they were keen to see continue. Kurama, who had been on his feet already, let go of Kagome's hand and slowly made his way to the doorway.

“Oi…that's no lady…” commented one, rubbing his bleary eyes.

“I advise you to leave,” a soft, cold and malice-laced voice, undoubtable male, threatened them, “Otherwise, I will leave you in such a state that no `lady' will look at you again…”

“Sorry for our intrusion!” Squeaked the drunks, and they quickly slammed the door such and scuttled away, trying to put as much space between them and the dude with hair emitting sparks and razor sharp teeth.

“So bothersome,” Kurama muttered, sinking back down in his seat, glad to see Kagome wasn't laughing at him. “Maybe it's the hair…I should get it cut…”

“Iya!”

The sharp command made Kurama jump, and Kagome hastily put her hands up in apology, “Oh, gomen, Kurama-kun! It's just that…I love your hair! I would hate for you to get it cut!”

The kitsune grinned, toying with a stray lock as if he was considering something. “Well, it is very trying…I would probally fight better with shorter hair…and to be honest if one more person confuses me for a female I might just lose my temper…”

“Oh, please don't cut it!” Kagome begged, looking very upset.

“What, ever?” Kurama replied, “That wouldn't be very healthily for it, either…”

“You know what I mean!” Kagome exclaimed, “I don't want you to ever get more than a few inches off!”

“Hmm…” Kurama was clearly enjoying this little game of his, and Kagome actually seemed to be falling for it. Despertly, she added, “I mean, how would you like it if I cut all my hair off?”

“I would l-like you, no matter how your hair was,” Kurama replied, slightly ruffled.

Did you nearly say what I think you did?

Kagome was in such a fit of panic that Kurama actually might cut off all his lovely locks that she didn't even notice that avatar's trip up, and instead continued to babble on- “I mean, those guys were drunk, but why don't you just sit with your top off, that way everybody would know you're a guy, right?”

Maybe it was the growing sexual tension in the small carriage. Maybe the kitsune's touch and words before their intrusion had put Kagome on edge, and maybe Kurama's almost trip up had gave him that spark of confidence that unsaid words so often do. Either way, Kagome would never have said that kind of thing before, and Kurama would have never slipped over to the seat beside her, and coyly whispered in her ear, “Would that please you, Kagome?”

The miko inhaled sharply, and her cheeks stained cherry. Kurama's emerald eyes were searching her face for a reaction, and boy did they get it.

“I guess there really are no secrets among kitsune, neh?” Kagome breathed.

“Indeed,” Kurama purred, and as he rested his hand on her hip, he murmured just as softly, “I do believe I've came up with an idea that will make sure no one will confuse which sex I belong to….”

As he pressed his lips to hers, Kagome had thought…Well, they could mistake us for two girls…But pretty soon her train of thought had pretty much crashed and burned.

 

 

As they were checking in at the hotel, Kagome was wishing that she had thought to wear something else, so that she could change into her dress. Now she felt all hot and bothered, and the night hadn't even begun.

Said reason for her current state was collecting their keys with a certain smile playing about his face. “There you are, Kagome. You're on the floor directly below me, but there are phones in all the rooms, in case of…emergency,”

Kagome accepted the key without further comment, and was dying to go to her room and freshen up, when a husky voice called out, “Well, if it isn't my favourite red head!”

Turning, Kagome saw a tall teen clapping Kurama on the shoulder, and his face lit up with delight, “Shizuru!”

At first, Kagome had mistaken the woman for a man, simply by the way she was dressed- her long and straight light brown hair fell to her waist, and she wore a navy coloured waistcoat, with a ruffled shirt and black three quarter length trousers.

The pair hugged, and Kagome felt a stab of jealously. Shocked, she tried to wave it off. How could she be so petty, to be jealous of a pair of good friends, who hadn't seen each other in a long time?

“Kagome,” Kurama beamed, leading her over gently by the hand, “This is Shizuru, sister of Kuwabara-kun. Shizuru, this is Kagome,”

“Ahh,” the woman nodded, “I can feel your spiritual energy from here…just don't be putting any of that on our kitsune here, alright, miko-sama?”

She said this all with a smile, but Kagome could see the `or I'll kick your butt' part reflected in her muddy brown eyes.

“Of course,” Kagome replied steadily, while replying with her own eyes, `Let's see you try'.

Shizuru gave a smirk and a nod, before calling over her shoulder, “See you guys at dinner!”

Kagome stood, stunned, and feeling a little less confident about the night ahead. She started when Kurama laid a hand on her arm, smiling as he said, “Don't worry about Shizuru. She'll like that with everyone. But like Hiei and Yukina, her brother is the nicest person you'll meet. His code of honour is one of the most iron strong I've ever came across,”

“Right,” Kagome replied, trying not to sound terrified. She wasn't worried about the males of the group- it was the other females she was now concerned about meeting.

 

 

Kagome gave herself a quick wash under the arms and made up her face again as soon as she arrived in her hotel room. It was lovely, with pure white décor, and a four poster bed complete with silken drapes. There was a wardrobe, a dressing table and couch, and a small TV. The miko felt reassured at Kurama's ki above her head- she was starting to feel like she would have to cling to him for the duration of the night.

Well, that's not exactly a lot to complain about, neh?

Kagome took a deep breath before picking up her handbag, the present and the key to her room. She was already weary from her day, and she could tell it was going to be a long night.

 

 

Kurama met her at the bottom of the stairs and hooked his arm though hers. Kagome felt glad for the support, and leaned into the warmth of his body. As they made their way to the dining room, where there was to be a grand buffet, Kagome commented, “The rooms are lovely, aren't they?”

“Hai,” Kurama agreed, “Keiko's really pulled out the stops this time,”

“Kurama!”

Kagome had to bite her cheek in order not to giggle. A tall, human looking youkai with an electric blue Mohican and a swagger that looked like a drunken daze was now in front of them. “Chu,” Kurama smiled, “Long time no see!”

“Yeah,” the now known Chu folded his arms, as he swayed dangerously, “A-and who's fault is that then, kitsune? Haven't seen your tail in Makai since The Demon Tournament!”

“I know,” Kurama replied, almost wistfully, “But I've been really-”

“And who's this fine looking gal?” Chu demanded, seemingly having lost interest in the bemused avatar, “How come I haven't seen you before, beautiful?”

“Ano…” Kagome said intelligently, “Well, I've only known Kurama a little while…”

“S'long enough though, eh, s'long enough! I'll tell ya something for nothing; nobody appreciates this fine man here! He could run an army single handily, he could! In fact, he did! Hah! Hah!”

Kurama rolled his eyes, but discreetly. “A story for another time, perhaps. Now, if you don't mind Chu, we must go and greet the soon to be bride and groom!”

“Of course! See you on the dance floor, beautiful!”

And Chu marched with full purpose into the door, which he banged off, and whirled around onto the ground with a thump.

“Ano...is he alright?”

“Hai…that's just Chu, don't worry about it…”

Kagome giggled as Kurama led her into the room, and immediately she developed a headache as youki upon youki engulfed her. Her miko instinct was to backtrack out the room as fast as she could, but gritting her teeth, she held on tighter to Kurama's arm. The avatar felt her unease, and gave her a small squeeze on the shoulder.

“And here he is! The kitsune himself!”

“Kurama!”

“Kurama-kun!”

“Hey, fox-boy, over here!”

Unable to suppress his grin, Kurama waved over to the table at the furthest end of the room. People mulling around glanced up at the familiar name, and as a result, Kagome felt very self conscious. Then the music played on, and people went back to chatting, eating and watching the new girl with an aura like a miko from the corner of their eyes.

Kagome could barely take in the table they were approaching. She had always thought her group of friends was a mixed one, but this had to be the strangest bunch she had ever laid eyes on. She recognised Hiei, and had a feeling if it wasn't a circular table he would be slouched somewhere at the end. As it was, he was sitting next to a girl with sea foam turquoise hair, who was blushing due to the orange-haired man next to her. There were two empty seats on the other side of Hiei. Kagome caught a familiar pair of bubblegum pink eyes staring at her, and she recognised them belonging to Botan, the girl whom she had met the same day as Kurama. She smiled on catching Kagome's eye, and the miko smiled bravely back. Botan was sitting next to Shizuru, who was lighting a cigarette with an indifference to the couple who had just arrived. When she caught Kagome looking, she gave her a wink.

“Mina,” Kurama announced with the grin still firmly in place, “This is Kagome,”

“Ano….hajimemashite….doozu yoroshiku!” Kagome introduced herself with a bow.

“Alright!” A boy with an impressive amount of spirit energy and slick, black gelled hair jumped to his feet. He circled Kagome with scrutinising eyes, and the miko was about to ask what the hell he thought he was doing when he exclaimed, “Yup, totally female!” As Kagome's cheeks flushed, Yusuke playfully patted Kurama on the shoulder and beamed, “Knew you had it in ya, fox-boy,”

The avatar's emerald eyes glittered, and he clapped Yusuke on the shoulder, making the teen's knees give out with the force. Laughing hard, the spirit detective hauled himself up by the aid of the back of a chair, and Kurama said with a smile, “Don't think because it's your party I can't kill you, Yusuke,”

Ah, so this is Yusuke…

As the teen continued to playfully taunt the kitsune, a girl got up to greet Kagome.

“Just ignore him,” She said with a roll of her eyes, “You think the prospect of marriage would mature him a little, but obviously not! I'm Keiko by the way, the fool who's marrying him,”

“Hey, Kurama!” Yusuke said loudly, “You wanna swap? You've definitely got the looker!”

Kagome laughed, as she admired the girl's beauty. Despite Yusuke's joke, his girlfriend was gorgeous. Her shiny brown hair tumbled around her waist, and she had bright and intelligent chestnut eyes. She was wearing a flowing golden gown that many people wouldn't have even tried on, but it made Keiko look like a sun goddess.

“I love your dress! And arigato for inviting me,” Kagome said, holding out her present, “I hope you like this- it's just a small token of my appreciation,”

Keiko took the gift carefully, before crushing Kagome in a hug and declaring, “Kurama-kun, she's totally kawaii!”

“Mphf,” Kurama replied, as he currently had Yusuke in a headlock, while the orange haired man was trying to get in on the fun. Hiei watched from the sidelines, the word `fools' tattooed across his face for all to see.

“I love your dress, too, Kagome-chan,” Keiko beamed, “It looks lovely on you! Now, let me introduce everyone!” Keiko held Kagome's hand as she led her around the table, “This is Yukina…” Kagome met with a pair of large, ruby eyes, belonging to the girl with the turquoise hair. Kagome felt a jolt of recognition, and was glad Keiko went around the other way so she didn't have to look at Hiei next.

“And Kuwabara should be sitting here, but he's over there with the boys,” Keiko laid the emphasis on the last word thickly, and the girls at the table giggled, while the only other male apart from Hiei at the table sighed, “Yes, Yusuke, you are showing everyone up you know,”

“Shut it, toddler!” came the expected response. Yusuke was under the two other guys, and was laughing so hard tears were rolling down his cheeks. “Oh, fox-boy, that better not be you feeling me up…owww!”

“Well, it had been a long time since they have all been together…”

Kagome turned amusedly from the pile of males on the floor to the man Yusuke had called toddler.

That's strange…he looks the oldest here…though why has he got Jr tattooed on his forehead? He isn't a youkai either…

“And next to Koenma is Botan…”

Koenma…surely not…the Koenma?

The man gave Kagome a swift nod, but he almost seemed unable to look her straight in the eye.

Is that a blue pacifier around his neck??

“And this is Shizuru…and last but not least, Genkai-sama!”

Kagome was surprised she hadn't noticed the old woman before. By just her wavy lilac-grey hair and wrinkled face, Kagome may have guessed she was Yusuke's grandmother- but her spirit energy was one of the highest she had ever felt. Not only that, but she was wearing fighting robes, like all the males at the table.

“Well, you must be hungry!” Keiko cried suddenly, “Go and help yourselves to some food! Yuskue, get Kurama off the floor, for goodness sake…”

Kagome couldn't help giggling as Kurama tried to get up with some air of dignity, brushing the non-existent dust from his clothing. Still rubbing his eyes, Kuwabara made his way back to his seat, while Yusuke clapped Kagome on the shoulder and winked, “Nice to have you here, Kagome,”

“Arigato,” Kagome smiled, as Kurama came and joined them, “It's lovely to be here,”

Yusuke grinned and then waved them off, making some joke as he sat down and sending the table off in hysterics again.

“See, I said he would be lovely,” Kagome reminded Kurama playfully, as they queued at the buffet table, “He's just how I imagined him,”

The avatar's face was flushed with the joy of being in the company of his good friends again, and he was happy that Kagome was full of praise of the group.

“Oh, wow!” Kagome suddenly exclaimed, as the crowd in front of them cleared, “Look at the ice sculptures!”

“Ahh,” Kurama nodded in appreciation, “Yukina's contribution, I believe…”

There was a cat, a dragon, a fox and two…

“Are they…penguins?” Kagome giggled, as they arrived at the centre piece. It looked like two, small, dumpy penguins holding hands, one with tuffy hair and the other with longer locks.

“Not quite!” Kurama replied amusedly, “I believe the inspiration for those two came from Pu, Yusuke's spirit beast…you see, Yukina has represented all of the rekai-tantei…there's me, the fox…Hiei's the dragon, and Kuwabara must be the cat…”

Kagome picked up a plate as she laughed, “Why on earth is Hiei a dragon? And Kuwabara…a cat??”

“Well,” Kurama contemplated as he too picked up a plate, “Hiei's most powerful move takes the form of a dragon, and so there is one imprinted on his arm, usually covered in bandages. And Kuwabara…just loves cats!”

“Wow…” Kagome gasped as they neared the nearest ice sculpture, the fox. It was about the size of her cat Buyo, but the similarity ended there. It was sleek and slim, poised gracefully as it looked down on the guests, its four tails raised like curled flags behind it.

“Kawaii,” Kagome beamed, looking at Kurama, “Is that what your kitsune form looks like?”

“It is actually a very accurate image,” Kurama laughed, “But I never did catch sight of myself in the mirror while in that form…”

After they had piled their plates high with delicious looking and smelling food, the couple made their way back to the table, though the avatar was stopped every five minutes, and by the time they returned Kagome was dying on her feet.

Kurama politely pulled out the empty chair next to Genkai for her, and she knew he wanted to sit next to Hiei, which was fine with her. The old woman openly stared at Kagome as she sat down; to the point she thought she had spilled something on her dress when she wasn't looking.

“The ice sculptures are beautiful, Yukina. Kagome and I were just admiring them,”

Kurama's voice distracted Kagome, and she saw the girl blush as she murmured, “Oh, it was nothing…”

“They're very pretty,” Kagome added, “And so life-like, too!”

Yukina smiled at Kagome, nodding in thanks.

“That's my Yukina for you! A woman of many talents!” Kuwabara boasted. Kagome felt Hiei move in his seat, and looked down at her plate, trying to hide her smile. She heard Kurama conceal a chuckle behind his napkin.

“Oh, that's right, Kurama!” Keiko spoke suddenly, “We got you a little something, for the flowers…”

“Oh, Keiko, I told you, it's not a problem…”

“No, no…I had to get you something…here,”

The girl passed a small box to Yukina, who passed it to Kurama. Smiling, he opened it, and Kagome saw nestled within was a pair of ornate silver cufflinks, in the shape of roses.

“We thought you could wear them to the wedding,” Keiko said hopefully.

Kurama cleared his throat, emotion clear in his eyes. This is what he had missed, for all those months he had spent alone in Tokyo, his friends out of sight, but not out of mind…

“Arigato gozimasu, Keiko. They are wonderful,”

The avatar rose, and went to give Keiko a kiss on the cheek. When he went to hug Yusuke, the spirit detective screwed up his face and closed his eyes, and said loudly, “Don't make it too sloppy, Kurama!”

The kitsune smirked, and gave the unsuspecting male a kiss on the cheek.

“Yeuck!” Yusuke yelled, scrubbing at his face with his cuff, “I was kidding! Jeez!”

Everyone burst out laughing, and as Kagome wiped her eyes, she noticed the only person not smiling was Hiei, who remained as expressionless as stone, save for the burning of his crimson eyes.

Poor Hiei…all this laughter is probably driving him mad…

The hybrid youkai suddenly turned as if he had heard her, and Kagome diverted her eyes quickly back to Kurama, who was now accepting something else off of Yusuke-

“…didn't want to just get you girly jewellery, so I saw this and had to get it…”

Kurama carefully tore the sparkly green paper off the present, clearly curious. Everyone craned their necks (apart from Hiei) to see what lay in the remains of the paper. Kurama chuckled, and held up a bundle of material, shaking it out. A t-shirt was revealed, and Kurama turned it around, holding it against himself. It was a burned amber colour, and had silver writing on it, in both English and Japanese- `Hunter'. In the centre was a broken, but still noticeable image of a prowling fox.

“I like it,” Kurama grinned, turning his head at Yusuke, “This means you get another kiss, right?”

The table broke into merry laughter once again as Kurama returned to his seat, and Yusuke began to retell the time Kuwabara walked in on the avatar after school hours, as he was cornered by a trio of desperate students who wanted the kitsune to become a member of their club so it would `become popular and they would get girlfriends'.

“Not only did he knock the door down on one of the idiots,” Yusuke hollered, “But he was shouting `Kurama! Kurama!' and all those geeks were like `Who's Kurama?'

“Well how was I supposed to know there would be other kids there? It was like seven o'clock, and they were in school!”

“In my defence,” Kurama added, “I was only taking advantage of the lab to develop a new plant poison, which I couldn't do at home. Those other students were there purely to stalk me,”

Woo…Kagome thought to herself, taking a sip of water, he's had his fair share of stalkers…

The conversation washed over Kagome in a pleasant way; she felt completely at ease, the laughter was continuous and Yusuke was a perfect host. She also learned more about Kurama and his friends with each story, and grew to like them even more.

At one part of the night, as people were just finishing desert, Kuwabara was telling the story of the time he had faked his death to prompt Yusuke into action. Kagome had been listening intently, when she felt a pressure on her knee. Looking down, she saw Kurama resting his hand there, still appearing to be listening to the story, but his eyes watching her out the corners. Kagome gave him a smile, and placed her hand over his, and they stayed like that for a moment, just relishing in the simple touch.

Kuwabara was making frantic hand actions, and Kurama took the chance to whisper out the corner of his mouth, “Are you having fun?”

“Hai,” Kagome replied honestly, “They're such a lovely bunch, and…” Kagome tailed off, before giving Kurama a sweet smile, “It makes me happy to see you so happy,”

Kurama beamed back at her, and laced his fingers through hers, and rested his leg against her own as Kuwabara finished his story.

 

 

Nani!? No cliffy??

Ah, gomen gomen! This chappy seemed to want to go on and on, and here seemed a good place to stop! Don't worry; we haven't got near the good bit yet! Hope you're all still enjoying, and arigato as always to all readers and reviewers!!

 

Here's some of the new YYH characters introduced this chapter:

Shizuru Kuwabara: She is Kazuma Kuwabara's tough older sister. Like her younger brother she also has a high level of Reiki sensitivity and is extremely strong; she is, an aspiring beautician.

Chu: He is the true captain of the Jolly Devil Six a.k.a. Team Rokuyukai in the Dark Tournament. Many of his techniques involve the influence of alcohol. He was one of the six youkai trained by Kurama and presented to Yomi.

Koenma: Though he resembles an infant in appearance; he is actually over 700 years old and is the son of King Enma, the ruler of the spirit realm (Reikai). Koenma also has the ability to transform into a teenage version of himself.

Genkai: The aged Reiki fighter who rigorously trains Yusuke. Though her manner is often gruff, she cares for Yusuke and the others, and constantly tries to help them grow stronger. In the past, she was feared as one of the most powerful human fighters in both Ningenkai and Makai.

 

 

MediaMiner.org:

Kagome093: Hehe, well I can promise you that Yoko and Kouga will meet, but can't say anymore on pairings!

Purplebabe: Aw arigato! I had a great b-day, and though Japan didn't work out, I had a nice cruise! Hope your holidays are going well!

J0kEr: Don't we all? In fact, just Yoko would do me fine!! Hope you've enjoyed so far!

Madmiko: Another perfect review! Yay!

I'm so glad you saw how I was thinking Yoko-wise…I was starting to think I'd lost the thread somewhere! But yes, Kouga-kun! I totally love this guy, and it has been sheer hell not being able to write him for about a year, maybe more! But ooh I will make up for it!!

Well I can promise you the Inu thing regarding Kikyo won't end in your usual Kikyo wins Inyasha, Kagome cries into the arms of whoever. Life's not that simple, neh? And this storyline is nothing but simple, hehe. (Even I have to reread parts to think `what did I write again for that bit?')

Glad you liked Yoko's kiss. We're slowly starting to see that wonderful effect Kagome has on baddies! (But Yoko's a baddy-gone-good, like Kouga-kun in the beginning!!)

Hehe. The fangirls. THE fangirls, how I love them…I giggled when I wrote that part…it was one of those moments I wished to be Kagome, and confident to say those kinds of things to girls like that! And there will be more encounters…

And the nightie. Lol, there's just no way Kagome's going to sleep as soon as she hits the pillow with that little number on, is there?

Glad you're enjoying so far! Hope you liked this chappy as much!!

ShipporinKIMS11: It would be funny, but I can't fit that into the plot, so it will be an Inuyasha free zone, party wise!! Thanks for your well wishes- I'll save them for when I get to Japan!

Demonchild_slayer: thanks for your kindness! I had a lovely birthday, even if I didn't make it to Japan!

Devilangel620: Aww, glad you enjoyed!

Kris77: Aww, what a lovely review! Don't worry, I am stubborn as anything (I'm a cancer hehe) and there's no way I'll be changing the pairing. You're right, Yoko and Kurama don't have any obligations as such to Kagome, as they are all technically single…however, as you'll know human (and youkai, I guess!) emotions are never that simple, and so possessiveness, jealously, etc, with occur!! I agree with you that I don't think Kikyo's evil either- she was in a very difficult situation. However, I like to think that Kagome would have acted better- for example, can your remember the (manga or anime) chapter when Kagome's sees what Kikyo saw, when she is healing her? Even she can tell Inuyasha wouldn't attack Kikyo (or whoever) for the jewel, and betray them, and Kikyo supposedly knows Inuyasha better! So she's not evil, but I think overall Kagome is a better person!

I'm glad you find this original. That's my one and only aim when I write- to keep it real, but never seen before! I know your pains- the reason there is suck a lack of good IY/YYH is what inspired me to write one in the first place! I hope you continue to enjoy this fic!

Kawaii-miko: I hope you like it so far!

Obessedfanclub: Hehe, glad you're enjoying it!

Great fic!: Arigato! Oh, I couldn't say…possibly twenty more, but I have a feeling it'll be nearer thirty!! You're right…technically `temee' means `you', in a kinda nasty way, but to really get the impact of it, it can be translated as `bastard' (not very nice, but it is inu we're talking about here!!)

Starlet Angel: Well, be jealous no more lol! But I do hope to go one day…

ChibiRin: I'm glad to here it! Hope your liked this as much!

Aknkkskd: I hope you liked it! (I have one very similar, so I really stole the idea from it! But I love it!)

Vyncent: I would update everyday if I could, but needs must! Glad you're liking so far!

Dragoonvixenofshadows: (great name!!): Hehe…well, I'm sure you'll find out next chappy!

Brightshadow4494: Aw, arigato! I hope you continue to enjoy!

Beckducky: I'm glad you thought so! I was worried the pitchforks were going to come out, but everyone seemed to understand that could happen with Yoko-kun!! I love your fic, and wish you the best of luck with it!!

Justakid: Arigato! Really? I hated it at first, which is why I tried to translate it (disaster!) but it's kinda grown on me!!

Lady Niona: Yay, I love when my work is called kawaii! (fav word ya know!) Arigato!

FanFiction.net:

Lillian88: I know what you mean! How I have trawled the net for good, complete stories on this pairing! But don't worry; I will finish this baby eventually! I wish I could update every day; I really do, but needs must! And I have many more stories planned!

And I prefer foxes too!

Wings of Tears: Arigato! I hope you like so far!

SapphireRyu: Have I told you before I love your name? Lol!. Arigato, I had a great birthday.

Nobodies Perfect-Not Even You: What a lovely long review!! I hope you liked Kagome's dress, and the interaction so far between her and the YuYu gang! There will be much more next chappy! I'm glad you liked Yoko's portrayal- I try to keep everyone IC as I can!!

Kuronue and Kagome will met, and Kuronue also has a big part to play in the plot, so we'll be seeing a lot more of him!!

KazunaPikachu: Well, I was going to Japan but pesky earthquakes got in the way!! I'm glad you liked Yoko's present! Ah, you know I can't tell you the plot!! Gomen!!

S.T. Nickolian: Yoko: “I…I….”

Mother: “And how DARE you put a poor innocent girl under the kitsune seduction?? A miko, of all people! If she purifies your tail it'll only serve you right!”

Yoko: “…..”

Hehe, I can't wait to bring Kouga-kun in! It's going to be such fun!

Chibi moon baby: Well, no need to be jealous lol! Hope you enjoyed this chappy just as much!!

Spicensugar92: Glad to hear it!

Phoenixiafyre: Well, the party continues next chapter…hope the little info at the top helps you character-wise!

Misslover: Lol I'm so happy you love it!

I forgot my ff name: Heh. I love you, for loving this! (And not just for your amazing skills in bed!)

Jessica: Woo, a lovely long review! I'm glad you think my work is inspiring! That makes me so happy! I'm also glad you like Yoko- he's one of my favourite characters to portray; he's just a walking bundle of writer delight!!

I agree that Kikyo wasn't nice, even before she turned into a claypot!

You're right about Kuronue- but he will fall under Kagome's charm eventually!

I'm glad you like this fic so much- and you should try writing! (If you haven't already!) I'd love to read anything you come up with!

Jazz: Hehe, I've not thought about that! But it could be a possibility!

InuYashaFangirl09: I can confirm they will kiss! Lol I'm glad you're not sure who to root for- that makes it more fun!!

xiDOREyoux: Glad you thought so!

IchikoKitsuneKoumori: Poor, Yoko. I do put my characters through the mill lol.

OhBrother: I hope this chappy answers your questions!!

Sapphy-chan: Yes, Yoko is a naughty thief in that way! But it'll be Kurama-time for a good while yet!! Yay! It's amazing to hear you're addicted- I'm addicted to writing it, so it's all good!!

Crystal lilith: Glad to hear it!

Cowgirlkitten2000: I'm glad you found it, too!!

Dark Inu Fan: Yeah, he knows. I hope you enjoyed!

InuFanJinx: Oh, there will be, I promise!

CrOsSoVerz: Neat name!!

Kagome-Is-Kool: Hehe, she did, didn't she? Down the shrine steps, maybe? Yoko is kawaii, neh?

Kandy123654: Glad to hear it!

Iris Ninja: Arigato!

Bloodcherry: Yay! What a great birthday pressie! Arigato!

 

 

Woot! Some many reviews! You guys are the best!!

 

Oh, and just for those who would like to know…I got my exam results in! I got 4 As (English, Spanish, Computing, Modern Studies) and a B (biology)! I'm so happy! Hopefully now that I've got my uni requirements this school year will be more relaxed! And less school work = more updating!!!