InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ A Universe of Illusions ❯ Chapter 4 Bangkok ( Chapter 4 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
Chapter 4: Bangkok
“I can't believe I'm doing this. I just can't believe it!”
Kagome closed her eyes temporarily, but when she reopened them, the scene she beheld was the same. She was walking barefooted in the middle of one of the main streets in Bangkok with automobiles on either side, wearing a straw hat, a bikini top and a tight-fitting sari holding on to the leash of a pair of tiger cubs.
“Very good, Kagome. Very good. Now, calm yourself.”
“Calm myself?” she asked with indignation. “The cars must be doing a hundred per hour. HOW am I supposed to calm myself?”
It was only nine and a half in the morning; the air was already scorching hot. The sun's rays reflected off the green and orange rooftops from the Grand Palace. During their two hours of filming, the traffic never subsided a single minute. The incessant noise was giving Kagome a headache. She could practically chew on the smog, which appeared like a black cloak hovering in the air.
Seeing the play-out for the shooting, she had beg the Kami those two tiger cubs wouldn't harm her. At any rate, the traffic didn't seem to bother them and their attention was solely on the piece of raw stake that a crew member suspended in front of the camera.
Kagome took a big breath and concentrated on the director's instructions, who at the moment was requesting for a smooth sway of hips.
“I don't like playing dice with danger.” she murmured. “When I'm under the sun, I always protect myself.”
They had attracted the attention of a number of the bystanders. Tourist and residents of Bangkok occupied the sidewalks observing the scene. It was like some circus. Half a dozen of vehicles, some trailers and one filming equipment composed of four persons: besides Kouga Tsuchie and his two assistants, the one responsible for exteriors, the hairdresser, the stylist and Jakotsu, the incredible make-up artist, who was like a mother to all the team members.
Kagome felt eyes constantly watching her now that on a pedestrian bridge spreading over the carriageway, a second filming crew was producing a documentary for the television about the current Shikon campaign.
She stopped at a red light allowing the awaiting vehicles to move on. Trucks, tightly packed buses, silver taxis and bicycles were being directed by a police officer in white uniform.
It was more likely that the reason they had managed to acquire a permit for filming so easily must be due to the city's high tourism. They had been in the city close to one week and every passing day the shooting was more complicated. The day before yesterday, she had been photographed in a river with the Temple of Dawn at her back. In that session she had to pose lying down on some pillows from inside a small boat and with a serpent wrapped around her neck while a camera captured the best angles from a helicopter flying above. The apparatus caused so much turbulence in the water that Kagome feared ending the shot under the dark waters of the river Cho Phraya.
There was no doubt, the campaign will be spectacular and, of course, a soon as the billboards appear, Kagome's face will be seen all around the world. Her life as she new it will never be the same.
“Come on boys, one more shot and we're finished.” announced the director.
A great activity was produced to prepare the new take. The caretaker of the cubs insisted on having them drink some water, Jakotsu hollered from his trailer turned dressing room that he needed to apply a few transparent powders on Kagome. After a couple of seconds, the blue-eyed model was standing once again at the starting point another retake being shot for the umpteenth time.
Suddenly, she saw a familiar silhouette on the bridge and her heart began to race with intensity. Sesshoumaru had arrived. He had mentioned doing so previously though not at what time. Kagome wondered if Ami came with him. The rumors had not ceased, even if they say you should never believe what you hear.
Sesshoumaru couldn't say she didn't work enough. Everyday she'd wake up at five in the morning, spent an hour dressing and having make-up applied to be ready by seven and endure the shooting till seven at night with almost no rest save for one break to eat.
“Eveyone ready? Good, dear lets go over there.”
The demanding manners of the director were becoming irritating with every session, however, thanks to practice; Kagome coped and maintained herself in check. It was much more difficult to forget Sesshoumaru's presence, as impossible to forget as the kiss they shared.
“I don't like playing dice with danger…
At last, they were done. The animal trainer lifted the tiger cubs and put them in their cage and Kagome could withdraw to her trailer equipped with air conditioner and take a hard earned respite. With a sigh of relief, she handed her straw hat to Yura and she plopped on a rear seat. She wanted to rest her feet for a minute and closed her eyes.
“'Bout time! One more minute out here and I would've melted.”
“We cannot continue filming. The light is too intense and it distorts the colors.” stated Sesshoumaru with indifference as he entered the trailer.
Kagome opened her eyes and saw him come in with some of the filming crew.
“May I please have a moment by myself?” she demanded. “The only thing left is to be shot in the shower.”
Sesshoumaru watched her, but instantly he turned to the members and told them they could leave.
“Arigatou.” she said and closed her eyes once more.
“I had already warned you there will be a great deal of work. I expect you not to fail.”
“Of course, I won't fail.” Kagome assured offended. “We have been working nonstop for six days under this heat. I believe I have a right to be exhausted.”
“Don't mind him, hon. He's just a slave driver as well as a sadist.” Jakotsu declared making way by Sesshoumaru to hand a glass of her revitalizing specialty to the fatigued woman.
It was a concoction of fruits prepared from a secret recipe. It was ice cold and Kagome pressed it over her forehead before moving it to her lips.
“The filming has to be complete in the designate time.” Sesshoumaru carried on dryly. “And do not overlook there will be a bonus for everyone in the crew if it is accomplished in time.”
“Well, so what. Money isn't everything you know.” Jakotsu remarked with an exaggerated poise.
“Is that so? I do not recall seeing you working for free.” was his retort.
From her seat, Kagome contemplated their trading of phrases with interest. Jakotsu was the only person who dared to talk to Sesshoumaru that way, although it didn't seem to bother him at all. Surely, it must be one of Jakotsu's many qualities that attested to his ingenuity. Altogether, this demonstrated a sense of humor in Sesshoumaru that to Kagome was a new revelation.
`I can't allow myself to enjoy it.' She thought to herself. `I can't forget what he did to me.' And indeed, she couldn't forget. Every time she shared the same space with him, Kagome experienced sensations of vulnerability, as if she were bare.
Sesshoumaru was studying the filming schedule. He looked dissatisfied.
“Well crew,” he said finally, “you will be glad to hear; tomorrow you are allowed to take the day off.”
A loud exclaim of jubilance arose from the group that was gathered at the entranced to the trailer.
“Terrific, I will get information on the best night club in this city!” shared Miroku, the photographer's assistant. “We've been here for a week and I haven't checked out anyone. I mean anything.”
“I, will be heading to the pool.” Announced Yura while turning toward Sesshoumaru. “I have not worn my new sexy bikini.”
“Really?” Sesshoumaru responded and without interest, he added. “I am regretful to miss your first try; unfortunately this Sesshoumaru will be occupied the majority part of the day.”
“That's alright Yura.” Miroku commented. “I'll tell you what, join me this night for sightseeing and tomorrow we can both head to the pool.” His eyebrows wiggled suggestively.
Yura shot him a crushing glare.
“Not even in your dreams I would join you in a pool.” she stated heatedly.
“Well, it didn't hurt to try.” Miroku resigned shrugging his shoulders, not bothered at all by Yura's rejection.
Kagome join in the general laughter. The atmosphere that surrounded her was typical in all the shootings she had participated in. Yura and she were the only women and since her arrival, the men competed for their attentions, well except for Jakotsu of course, and Sesshoumaru. Kouga was exclusively interested in her; kept insisting on dates and what not. Her answer was always that same: no.
It was just a healthy diversion. One of the first things she had learned at work was how to contribute in achieving a friendly environment within the filming group, but keeping sufficient distance to not get involved in the games of love.
The only person she couldn't manage to get along with was Yura, though Kagome didn't know if it was a personal condescension to all models in general or just her.
“Perhaps I could accompany you to the pool.” Kagome offered just to be friendly. “I think that is best way to spend the day.”
“But don't sunbathe too long.” ordered Jakotsu. “It would be a pain to have to apply coverage all over your body, not to mention all the hours of wasted.”
“Kagome will not be sunbathing. She is coming with me.” Sesshoumaru decided.
Kagome couldn't hide her surprise.
“What? Where?”
“Tourism.” he answered with humor. “In between other stops, to the Grand Palace with the documentary filming crew.”
“No! Why do I have to go? I also have a right to rest, you know.” Kagome claimed upset.
“It is part of our agreement with the office of tourism from Thai.” he enlightened with indifference. “Thanks to that, the authorities demonstrated themselves in a forthcoming manner. We cannot give ourselves the luxury of losing such an advantage.”
“Oh, splendid, marvelous! By the way, are you sure you won't need a couple liters of my blood?” she protested with sarcasm.
“I do not feel that will be necessary. Nevertheless, thanks for the offer.” Sesshoumaru caustically replied.
Nothing came to her mind to reply to that curtly enough, but had there been a handy blunt object within reach Kagome would have gladly flung it to his face; her glass still had some of the concoction Jakotsu had made and she was not willing to waste it on such a rat, therefore, she limited herself to give him her back.
From the moment they reached Thailand, Kagome was wishing to find a chance to visit the Grand Palace, although her wish did not include Sesshoumaru. In Tokyo she had bought a tourist guide and she found herself fascinated by all the images of the many temples and courtyards, and by the magnificent golden throne of the Emerald Buddha.
At eight-thirty the van from the documentary crew arrived at the Viseschaisri Gate, but before crossing, the director decided it would be an excellent idea to photograph her entering through that famous gate mounted on one of those typical tuk-tuk from Bangkok.
It took sometime to locate one, and at last they settled for the vehicle with the brightest color, upholstered in leather and with many hanging adornments. And took even longer to haggle with the vender for an agreeable price and at the same time manage to make him understand they only needed the contraption for a short trip through the adjacent streets of the palace, only to eventually end up back at the same place. Bah!
“Ma'am, your vehicle is ready.” Sesshoumaru said addressing Kagome with a mischievous smirk after finishing the deal.
“I am positive the contract doesn't force me to do this.” stated the frustrated woman in a low hush voice the moment she smiled to the camera.
“I assure you it does. `Clause twelve: public relations bias.' At any rate, what is it you are afraid of? It is not dangerous; you do not imagine I would risk manhandling a merchandize at this stage in the campaign, now do you?” Sesshoumaru teased.
“Why not? The insurance covers any losses.”
“Indeed; regardless, searching for a replacement would instigate a grave setback and this Sesshoumaru always completes assignments promptly.”
Kagome returned a cutting stare. He probably was not lying. To him she was nothing more than a valuable merchandize, and even though he admitted he wouldn't throw her out of his bed, the desire he might feel for her was only physical, a craving that can be sated either by her or any other attractive woman.
The vehicle was started and they drove fully into the dense traffic of Bangkok. The driver directed the machine with absolute lack of interest behind a truck filled to the brim with equipment. Passing by a pot hole, Kagome grasped with one hand her seat and the other onto Sesshoumaru's powerful biceps, though she removed it immediately as if she had touched hot coals.
Sesshoumaru chuckled softly and his broad shoulder shook with his mirth.
“Do you not agree we are perfect together to be photographed?” he whispered in her ear. “And we could invent a romance which will make the video more interesting.”
Kagome moved herself as far from him as possible inside the tight confinements of the tuk-tuk.
“I will not simulate a romance with you so the damn video will be better.” she scoffed feeing extremely offended.
“No? What a shame. In that case let us indulge ourselves in admiring these breathtaking sights. I place myself at your hands in order for you to allocate your comprehension of the palace. This Sesshoumaru is certain you have been brushing up on everything you have found about this cultural site.” requested Sesshoumaru mordantly.
“Actually, I happen to possess a guide that is truly interesting. The Grand Palace was first constructed in 1780 by the king Rama I.” Kagome explained feeling tense.
“Is it the same king from `The King and I?”
“No. That was Rama IV. But the motion picture didn't portray him accurately. He was a very intelligent man who accomplished many good things for his country.” elaborated the beautiful model.
“Really? You truly are a mine of information. Surely you know what those prominent structures in its interior are.”
Kagome looked at him suspiciously narrowing her eyes. He was patronizing her with feign ignorance. She was well aware he had been in Bangkok on several occasions and she was sure Sesshoumaru was just knowledgeable as her or even more about the palace.
“They are called chedi. The golden reliquary is the largest chedi in the world. The others… I not sure, I think one holds the many statues of the kings of Thailand.”
“That sounds very interesting.” he remarked, and later yawned openly.
“You asked.” she pointed out.
“Hm. Very well, continue. Tell me about the Emerald Buddha.”
Kagome hesitated before carrying on. She didn't happy to give him the opportunity to continue making fun of her.
“It's not made of emerald, it's jade. It is not known when it was made. But the statue was found in 1464, in Chiang Rai, north of the country. La legend states that a group of monks were caught in a storm and had to seek refuge within a local temple. Once inside, a thunder revealed the Buddha.” Kagome elucidated.
“What an incredulous tale.” Sesshoumaru commented with seriousness.
“Yes. Too incredulous to be actually factual, I mean, don't you think everything is coincidently too perfect? It was a remote region back in those days, and a group of monks just happened to be in that right place at the opportune moment.”
“That is a somewhat cynical opinion. This Sesshoumaru is supposed to be the cynical one, am I not?”
Kagome couldn't hold her smile and in that moment, a shot was taken of them. Then she took noticed of the deception she'd been dealt, it was exactly what Sesshoumaru had wanted. He always had to have his way.
At the span of twenty minutes, they were back at the gateway. Sesshoumaru descended the vehicle and offered his hand to help down.
“Arigatou.”
“You are welcome.”
Before Kagome could remove her hand, Sesshoumaru held her hand longer than necessary while looking at her with a smile. She felt a tremor in her gut. It was indubitable that in spite of not having any trust in him in the least, she couldn't remain impassible when it came to his charm.
“It's very good, you guys. Now, let's make our way into the palace.”
The director's voice tore through the enchanting moment. In didn't matter, it had been nothing more than an illusion, another charade for the image of the video, a drop of human interest. Relying again on her willpower, Kagome exhibit her dashing smile intent on concealing her tormented feelings.
At least she didn't have to feign the interest that the beauty of the spectacular building around them awoke in her. Actually she did wish the damn crew was not there, attracting the attention of whoever crossed their path, to be able to enjoy the palace all by herself.
Following the purchase of their admission, Kagome felt immediately captivated. The first things she saw was two mythological giants that received them as they finally entered the palace, covered in shiny armor and whose blank features gave the impression of keeping watch on their visitors.
“Wow!” she exclaimed. “Wouldn't want to mess with those two.”
“Impressive, are they not?” added Sesshoumaru who moved closer to examine the intricate designs on the armor. “The craftsmanship is incredible.”
There was so much to look at making it difficult to decide where to go first. It was like a great field of temples and shrines, small gardens and exotic figures, golden towers and walls decorated with complex mosaics and porcelain. Cymbal music followed the rhythmic and quiet humming of Buddhist monks reciting their prayers, and the soothing scent of incense flooded the air.
The Emerald Buddha was situated on the largest structure, a spectacular building with a green pagoda rooftop supported by golden pillars and a thick marble staircase leading into the ornamented entryway. In the front patio were accumulations of offerings, baskets filled with fruits that were beautifully arranged. A group of monks in tunics the color of saffron and shaven heads squat down as they prayed, indifferent to the tourists.
They were lucky to have paid their visit a day when the temples were found open. Sesshoumaru and Kagome removed their footwear and went inside, leaving the rest of the crew behind. The interior was cool and shaded, enveloped in an atmosphere of calmness and serenity that help to carry them away from the heat and noise from the busy streets of Bangkok.
“Do you want to seat down for bit?” asked Sesshoumaru in a hushed tone.
Kagome sat folding her legs back; just like everyone did to keep their feet from pointing to the sacred figures that dominated the place from their alter made of gold.
“It's much smaller than I imagined,” she murmured, “but the sight is so beautiful.”
“Take a look at the delicate embossing at the base of the altar.” Sesshoumaru said. “The craftsman must have dedicated a good part of his life.”
“All that gold must cost a fortune. With the poverty existing in this country.”
Sesshoumaru shook his head negatively.
“That is just an occidental point of view. The majority of the inhabitants is Buddhist, with believes that the riches they are born with are the results of their actions from their former lives and only wish to deserve a better position on their following reincarnation. Their spiritualism is very important to them. As it is, I am certain that is how it is for everyone else, whether we believe in a God or not, it is why anyone who enters this sacred place kneels down and speaks in whispers, including tourist, because something is felt.”
Kagome looked around and realized Sesshoumaru was right. Whatever it may be, there was something powerful in that temple, something that communicated calmness and peace.
But the surprise was seeing Sesshoumaru Matsuki also appreciating it. She had always pictured him as a materialist whose only interest consisted in gaining the largest quantity of money in the shortest amount of time possible. Though she couldn't deny it was true that his photographs revealed something more, an artistic perception and feeling out of the norm. Sesshoumaru was gifted with a personality very complex and profound from what she had originally envisioned.
Sitting next to him, Kagome could feel the warmth his body emitted. In her mind, she turned to the memory of his embrace and kisses without being able to avoid it. It was taking over her being, removing the ashes of desire, a desire that she always had considered to be just simple fling from an adolescent.
She no longer was an adolescent, but a woman, and that yearning had grown in such a way, there was only one way to diminish it; either to cure it or let it catch fire. But that was a dreadfully dangerous path and Kagome didn't know if she was brave enough to travel through it.
Thinking back on Ami, she realized she didn't even have a right to consider the possibility of having a relationship with him. Ami had done so much for her, more as a friend than an agent, that betraying her would be the worst of her disloyalties.
Besides, she wasn't sure she really wanted to be involved in a romance with a man like Sesshoumaru. He didn't appear to have any respect toward women, instead he only used them. After tiring over a relationship, he initiated another without caring who he hurt.
Kagome could not allow herself to forget that threat, she reinforced her determination; she must concentrate on strengthening her defenses. Because everyday she saw how clearly difficult it was to resist if he decided to cross the limits she had marked.