InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Bankotsu's Futuristic Escapades ❯ Eighteen ( Chapter 19 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
The long awaited reunion between Bankotsu and his great grandfather.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 12.11.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 2.9K | Visits: 259 | Status: Work In Progress
The long awaited reunion between Bankotsu and his great grandfather.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 12.11.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 2.9K | Visits: 259 | Status: Work In Progress
Disclaimer: I do not own the Characters, only this plot line and all its insane little twists.
A big thanks to The Invisible Author for proofing this! XD
A/N: Okay ponygirl1221 I hope this chapter fully answers your question about their ages, along with last chapter’s explanation of the time difference between ME and FE.
Chapter eighteen:
Bankotsu’s hand slowly made its way to Kagome’s still bare, muscular thigh, and he lightly squeezed it, eliciting a moan from his girlfriend’s hot mouth.
He broke the kiss to nibble and suck on her neck, while still massaging her thigh. She began gasping for much needed oxygen deep into her lungs.
Sora and Hiromasa returned from the store with the makings for strawberry shortcake. Sora saw them kissing on the couch and asked, a little amused, “I take it everything is okay now?” as she walked into the kitchen.
The startled teens jumped apart, blushing, and mumbled, “Yes.” before laughing together at the irony of being caught making out by her family. Grinning, Bankotsu pulled Kagome closer and claimed her mouth in a possessive kiss before pulling back, asking, “Need any help?”
Sora grinned, answering, “Nope, we’ve got it just about covered, thanks.” He nodded as Kagome sat beside him, facing her mother over the couch.
Deciding to be unusually blunt for once, Sora asked, “Have you two decided if you’re going to visit Tomi?”
Bankotsu said, “Actually, yes.” as he stood up holding a hand out to Kagome. She placed her slender hand in his and he pulled her to her feet, ushering her in front of him as he leaned against the sofa.
His hands went around her waist and she blushed a little. Bankotsu said seriously, “Kagome and I have been talking a little about everything, and have decided we’re both going to see him soon.”
Sora smiled, “Wonderful.” as she began putting the groceries away.
Kagome said, “You’re friends with him, right, Grandpa?” staring at the lively old man who was playing with Buyo.
Hiromasa said, “Yes, we are. We grew up together." He added sternly, “Though I never did approve of the way he raises kids.”
Bankotsu nodded agreeing, “He leaves a lot to be desired that way, but he does his best.” resting his chin on Kagome’s shoulder.
A little concerned for both of them, Sora asked, “You two realize he may still try to push the engagement right?” eying them carefully.
Kagome sighed, nodding. Bankotsu said, “Yeah, about that…” drawing everyone’s attention his way. He said seriously, “I won’t let anyone push us into anything until we are ready for it.” shocking the older Higaurashis.
Sora asked, “So you’re saying…?” afraid to get her hopes up too high.
Eyes serious, Bankotsu assured, “I have every intention of marrying Kagome, but only when she’s ready.”
Kagome’s jaw dropped and she squeaked, “Really?” unable to believe he was serious.
Bankotsu's hands turned her around by the waist to stare him dead in the eye, and he said, “Of course. I know a good thing when I find it.” Raising a hand to cup her face in a tender caress, he added, “Kags, you’re the best thing that has ever happened to me in my entire existence.” staring deep into her eyes, allowing the truth of his words to shine brightly.
Tears of joy filled her eyes as he continued, “Despite that I act like a jerk at times, you put up with me. Even better, you’re not afraid to stand up to me. I’d have to be a complete moron to let a beautiful, kind, amazing girl like you get away. And we all know that I’m not an idiot.” giving her his trademark, cocky smirk.
Kagome blinked and smiled. Bankotsu said in a purely possessive tone, “Kags, you’re mine and you’re not getting away.” yanking her body flush with his. He shocked her even further when he said exactly what he knew she was waiting to hear. “I love you, my feisty little miko.” He purred into her ear, wanting to make sure she understood exactly how serious he was.
Tears of joy fell from her eyes as she threw herself into his arms replying, “I love you, too, Bankotsu!” jumping up and down in his arms from uncontainable excitement.
Sora grinned, announcing, “Finally!” before walking into the kitchen to check the roast and preparing the strawberry shortcake.
Bankotsu closed his eyes, feeling euphoric as he thought, 'She’s really mine now.' hugging his fiancée close to the hard planes of his body.
As her body melted to his, Kagome was also feeling elated as she hugged her fiancé, thinking, 'Wow, he really loves me! I can’t believe he’s mine now.'
Bankotsu pulled back and, tracing her face reverently, he stared deep into her eyes for a long moment, promising, “But we will wait until you’re ready.” Unable to speak due to the lump of emotions in her throat, Kagome nodded.
Bankotsu grinned and slowly lowered his head until their lips met in their most passionate kiss to date. He poured all of his love and affection into this kiss. She eagerly matched his passion with her own. The kiss spoke volumes to both of them. It promised everlasting love, devotion, protection, and above all happiness for all of their days.
Remembering they had an audience, Bankotsu commanded himself to be satisfied with just kissing for now and pulled back smirking at his handiwork, noting her thoroughly kissed look and the dreamy expression in her eyes.
Hiromasa grinned, thinking, 'That old coot, Tomi might just get part of his wish after all.' watching happily as his granddaughter and her fiancé enjoyed a very happy embrace.
Hating to ruin the moment, Sora announced, “Dinner is done.” placing everyone’s food on the table.
The happy couple walked hand-in-hand to the table and sat ready to eat. Souta walked in, noticing the happier-than-usual atmosphere and asked, “What has you all so cheery?”
Bankotsu announced, “I’m officially your sister’s fiancé.” beaming from ear to ear.
Souta’s eyes widened before he said excitedly, “Awesome! Congratulations you two.” hugging each in return.
They hugged him back and thanked him. Sora eagerly announced, “In light of recent events, this dinner is now a celebration.” placing their teas in front of them and joining her family for dinner.
Everyone enjoyed the savory meal and thanked her for it. After dinner they all decided to surprise Tomi that night, so they climbed into the car and drove over to the estate.
At the estate:
Hours later they pulled up to the tick, iron-poled gate surrounding the estate, and Hiromasa pressed the buzzer, identifying himself to the guard.
The guard radioed the house informing the owner of his guest. Minutes later the guard buzzed them in and said, “Go ahead and enjoy your visit, Mr. Higaurashi.” Hiromasa nodded and his daughter drove inside.
Kagome and Bankotsu were in the very back since they decided to do it as a surprise. Both were rather anxious as to how everything would play out from here on. Bankotsu’s nervousness seeped through to Kagome, and she whispered, “Relax, Ban.” holding his hand in a silent show of support.
He blinked and nodded, forcing his nerves to lessen a bit. Despite his strength and confidence in his own abilities, he couldn’t stop feeling a tad nervous about how this would turn out. Swallowing his nerves, he forced himself to act like the adult he wanted to be recognized as, mentally berating himself, 'You’re nineteen now, Bankotsu, stop acting like a damned child!'
His nerves were still there, but his steely determination had moved to the forefront. His tensed shoulders relaxed into a more normal position as he prepared to face his only living relative for the first time in what seemed a lifetime.
Kagome smiled, whispering encouragement to him. “You can do this, Ban, and I’ll be right there with you.” squeezing his hand.
He smiled thinking, “That’s right. With Kags by my side I can do anything.” feeling his confidence growing stronger as he reminded himself that he was a man now, not a sniveling little kid, and even if the old man treated him like a kid, he could just tell him off and walk away. Mind made up, he sat waiting with his beloved where she belonged, by his side.
As the car slowed to a halt, he took a deep breath, gathering all of his courage to him and climbed out of the car. Kagome was right behind him. Hiromasa walked over to the door, excited to view the long awaited reunion though anxious his hard-headed friend might run the boy off again.
Hiromasa knocked on the door and he and his small family were admitted inside the mansion and escorted to the drawing room. Kagome and Bankotsu stood outside the room waiting for their host to appear before they announced their presence.
Minutes later, an old man using a cane walked into the room, greeting, “Hiromasa, my old friend. What brings you to visit this lonely old fool?” as he slowly sat on the couch with his cane in front of him.
Hiromasa replied, “Actually I decided it was time to visit you, seeing as it’s been a while now.”
The normally tough old bird said, “I see you even brought the family this time.” indicating Sora and Souta. He said, “Sora, you’re looking lovely as ever.” Turning to her son, he added, “I’ve been hearing a lot about your soccer games. You’ll make a fine athlete one of these days.” His eyes filled with deep sorrow as he added softly, “Like my great-grandson.”
Taking a deep breath, Bankotsu cleared his throat and stepped into the room with Kagome’s hand in his and said, “Hello, Grandfather.” staring the old man dead in the eye.
Tomi’s hand holding the cane shook and his cane clattered to the floor as he asked, afraid to believe his eyes, “Bankotsu, my boy, is it really you?” holding out his trembling hand, motioning for him to move closer.
Squeezing Bankotsu’s hand, Kagome signaled him to go ahead. He smiled at her and said, “Hai, Grandfather, it’s me.” moving to stand in front of the old man.
Tomi’s hand went up to cup his face, making Bankotsu shift, a bit uncomfortable. When the old man noticed and went to withdraw his hand, Bankotsu’s hand closed around it holding it to his face as he said, “It’s me.” staring into his eyes.
Jubilant gray eyes stared up into the unmistakable blue eyes of his missing heir, and he hugged the boy with tears falling down his weathered cheeks as he sobbed, “Thank Kami-sama! Oh boy, I’ve missed you terribly.”
Bankotsu stood there shocked, patting the old man on the back, assuring, “I’ve returned Grandfather.” with moisture in his own eyes as his strong arms carefully circled the older man in a warm embrace.
Unable to hold back her own tears any longer, Kagome sobbed into her handkerchief. Bankotsu pulled back, holding out his hand to her. She gave him a watery smile and placed her hand in his. Bankotsu pulled her close to him and stood upright, explaining, “Grandfather, I’d like you to meet my fiancée, Kagome Higaurashi.” eyes shining with pride he introduced, “Kags, my great-grandfather, Tomi Ryuusan.”
Tomi inhaled a slow breath and said, “Pleasure to finally meet you, Kagome. You have your mother’s beauty.” as he shook her proffered hand.
Kagome beamed, saying, “Thank you, Mr. Ryuusan, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Tomi scoffed, “None of the formalities, my dear, just call me Tomi or Grandfather, either will do.” sending her the first genuine smile he had given anyone in years.
Kagome blushed, “Thank you, Grandfather Tomi.” and moved back to stand at Bankotsu’s side.
One arm went around her waist as Bankotsu said, “I saw you on the news.”
Tomi smiled, admitting, “I had hoped you would come home.”
Bankotsu said earnestly, “I’m here, but first I need to make some things clear. Firstly: Kagome and I are engaged because we want to be, not because of what you and her great-grandfather did. We will marry, but only when she is ready- not before! Secondly: I still have no intention of running the business. I-”
Tomi raised a hand, cutting him off and said, “Don’t worry about that. Right now, let’s just enjoy visiting.” Shocked, Bankotsu nodded as he and Kagome sat together on a smaller couch.
Tomi asked, “How did you two meet?” curiosity filling his gray eyes.
Bankotsu said, “You won’t believe this, but we met in Ancient Japan.”
Tomi’s eyes widened, and Kagome confirmed, “The Feudal Era to be exact.”
Tomi said, “By all means, please explain.” eager to learn about his great-grandson’s meeting his betrothed.
Kagome said, “Well, the old well-house at my family’s shrine was connected to that time.” and began explaining about her times and her mission with the Inutachi.
Tomi nodded, asking, “And you?” turning his complete attention to his heir.
Bankotsu told him everything, right down to his massacres with the Schichinatai, unsure how the old man would react. Even still, he refused to be ashamed of his actions, since they helped mold him into who he was now.
Tomi listened with an open mind and shocked everyone in the room by saying, “It sounds like you had a very interesting time during your absence.”
Bankotsu blinked, asking, “You mean...you’re not disappointed in me for killing all those people?” staring at the old man as if he were a complete stranger, which in a way he was.
Tomi sighed, admitting, “You’ve had a hell of a life, my boy. And my stubborn old ways hasn’t made things any easier on you. The fact that you were able to overcome all of it plus all of what you’ve told me proves how strong you are, not just physically, but emotionally too.”
Grinning, he continued, “How could anyone not admire all that you’ve managed to overcome to become who you are now?”
Hiromasa said, “Praise Kami, I do believe you have finally joined the ranks of common sense, you old coot.” walking over to clap the old man’s shoulder in a joyful manner.
Tomi blushed slightly, admitting, “When you’ve spent years regretting the way things left off, you tend to have a different look on life.” Turning to Bankotsu, he added sincerely, “I do regret the way we left off that night.”
Clearing his throat, he said, “I realize now that I was out of line. You should have been allowed some freedom in making choices for yourself.” Adding in a voice filled with remorse, “I’m only sorry it took you leaving to finally open my eyes.”
Standing up, Bankotsu crossed the room with tears in his eyes and said, “Forget it, Grandpa, let’s just enjoy whatever time we still have.” hugging the old man gently so as not to upset his condition.
Tomi heaved a heavy sigh informing him, “I’m afraid that won’t be long.” Staring into his eyes he concluded, “The doctors say it’s a miracle I’ve made it this long.” and began coughing.
Bankotsu said, “It’s okay, Grandfather, I intend for us to make the best of whatever time we have left.” sending him a smile.
Tomi smiled back, saying, “Thank you for coming home. I hope you can forgive this old fool someday.” smiling, overjoyed to have his beloved great-grandchild home once again.
Bankotsu said, “If there is one thing I have learned over the years, it’s that everyone deserves a chance to be forgiven.” smiling as Kagome walked over to hug his waist.
Kagome, agreed, “Absolutely.”
Taking the older Ryuusan’s hand in his, Bankotsu said sincerely, “I forgive you, grandfather.” and hugged him. Tomi hugged the boy back, whispering, heartfelt, “Thank you.” and closed his eyes thinking, 'Now I have no more regrets.' as he wiped a tear from his cheek.
A/n: Short I know, but I just feel this is a perfect place to cut off on this one. So, there’s chapter eighteen- enjoy! XD
A big thanks to The Invisible Author for proofing this! XD
A/N: Okay ponygirl1221 I hope this chapter fully answers your question about their ages, along with last chapter’s explanation of the time difference between ME and FE.
Chapter eighteen:
Bankotsu’s hand slowly made its way to Kagome’s still bare, muscular thigh, and he lightly squeezed it, eliciting a moan from his girlfriend’s hot mouth.
He broke the kiss to nibble and suck on her neck, while still massaging her thigh. She began gasping for much needed oxygen deep into her lungs.
Sora and Hiromasa returned from the store with the makings for strawberry shortcake. Sora saw them kissing on the couch and asked, a little amused, “I take it everything is okay now?” as she walked into the kitchen.
The startled teens jumped apart, blushing, and mumbled, “Yes.” before laughing together at the irony of being caught making out by her family. Grinning, Bankotsu pulled Kagome closer and claimed her mouth in a possessive kiss before pulling back, asking, “Need any help?”
Sora grinned, answering, “Nope, we’ve got it just about covered, thanks.” He nodded as Kagome sat beside him, facing her mother over the couch.
Deciding to be unusually blunt for once, Sora asked, “Have you two decided if you’re going to visit Tomi?”
Bankotsu said, “Actually, yes.” as he stood up holding a hand out to Kagome. She placed her slender hand in his and he pulled her to her feet, ushering her in front of him as he leaned against the sofa.
His hands went around her waist and she blushed a little. Bankotsu said seriously, “Kagome and I have been talking a little about everything, and have decided we’re both going to see him soon.”
Sora smiled, “Wonderful.” as she began putting the groceries away.
Kagome said, “You’re friends with him, right, Grandpa?” staring at the lively old man who was playing with Buyo.
Hiromasa said, “Yes, we are. We grew up together." He added sternly, “Though I never did approve of the way he raises kids.”
Bankotsu nodded agreeing, “He leaves a lot to be desired that way, but he does his best.” resting his chin on Kagome’s shoulder.
A little concerned for both of them, Sora asked, “You two realize he may still try to push the engagement right?” eying them carefully.
Kagome sighed, nodding. Bankotsu said, “Yeah, about that…” drawing everyone’s attention his way. He said seriously, “I won’t let anyone push us into anything until we are ready for it.” shocking the older Higaurashis.
Sora asked, “So you’re saying…?” afraid to get her hopes up too high.
Eyes serious, Bankotsu assured, “I have every intention of marrying Kagome, but only when she’s ready.”
Kagome’s jaw dropped and she squeaked, “Really?” unable to believe he was serious.
Bankotsu's hands turned her around by the waist to stare him dead in the eye, and he said, “Of course. I know a good thing when I find it.” Raising a hand to cup her face in a tender caress, he added, “Kags, you’re the best thing that has ever happened to me in my entire existence.” staring deep into her eyes, allowing the truth of his words to shine brightly.
Tears of joy filled her eyes as he continued, “Despite that I act like a jerk at times, you put up with me. Even better, you’re not afraid to stand up to me. I’d have to be a complete moron to let a beautiful, kind, amazing girl like you get away. And we all know that I’m not an idiot.” giving her his trademark, cocky smirk.
Kagome blinked and smiled. Bankotsu said in a purely possessive tone, “Kags, you’re mine and you’re not getting away.” yanking her body flush with his. He shocked her even further when he said exactly what he knew she was waiting to hear. “I love you, my feisty little miko.” He purred into her ear, wanting to make sure she understood exactly how serious he was.
Tears of joy fell from her eyes as she threw herself into his arms replying, “I love you, too, Bankotsu!” jumping up and down in his arms from uncontainable excitement.
Sora grinned, announcing, “Finally!” before walking into the kitchen to check the roast and preparing the strawberry shortcake.
Bankotsu closed his eyes, feeling euphoric as he thought, 'She’s really mine now.' hugging his fiancée close to the hard planes of his body.
As her body melted to his, Kagome was also feeling elated as she hugged her fiancé, thinking, 'Wow, he really loves me! I can’t believe he’s mine now.'
Bankotsu pulled back and, tracing her face reverently, he stared deep into her eyes for a long moment, promising, “But we will wait until you’re ready.” Unable to speak due to the lump of emotions in her throat, Kagome nodded.
Bankotsu grinned and slowly lowered his head until their lips met in their most passionate kiss to date. He poured all of his love and affection into this kiss. She eagerly matched his passion with her own. The kiss spoke volumes to both of them. It promised everlasting love, devotion, protection, and above all happiness for all of their days.
Remembering they had an audience, Bankotsu commanded himself to be satisfied with just kissing for now and pulled back smirking at his handiwork, noting her thoroughly kissed look and the dreamy expression in her eyes.
Hiromasa grinned, thinking, 'That old coot, Tomi might just get part of his wish after all.' watching happily as his granddaughter and her fiancé enjoyed a very happy embrace.
Hating to ruin the moment, Sora announced, “Dinner is done.” placing everyone’s food on the table.
The happy couple walked hand-in-hand to the table and sat ready to eat. Souta walked in, noticing the happier-than-usual atmosphere and asked, “What has you all so cheery?”
Bankotsu announced, “I’m officially your sister’s fiancé.” beaming from ear to ear.
Souta’s eyes widened before he said excitedly, “Awesome! Congratulations you two.” hugging each in return.
They hugged him back and thanked him. Sora eagerly announced, “In light of recent events, this dinner is now a celebration.” placing their teas in front of them and joining her family for dinner.
Everyone enjoyed the savory meal and thanked her for it. After dinner they all decided to surprise Tomi that night, so they climbed into the car and drove over to the estate.
At the estate:
Hours later they pulled up to the tick, iron-poled gate surrounding the estate, and Hiromasa pressed the buzzer, identifying himself to the guard.
The guard radioed the house informing the owner of his guest. Minutes later the guard buzzed them in and said, “Go ahead and enjoy your visit, Mr. Higaurashi.” Hiromasa nodded and his daughter drove inside.
Kagome and Bankotsu were in the very back since they decided to do it as a surprise. Both were rather anxious as to how everything would play out from here on. Bankotsu’s nervousness seeped through to Kagome, and she whispered, “Relax, Ban.” holding his hand in a silent show of support.
He blinked and nodded, forcing his nerves to lessen a bit. Despite his strength and confidence in his own abilities, he couldn’t stop feeling a tad nervous about how this would turn out. Swallowing his nerves, he forced himself to act like the adult he wanted to be recognized as, mentally berating himself, 'You’re nineteen now, Bankotsu, stop acting like a damned child!'
His nerves were still there, but his steely determination had moved to the forefront. His tensed shoulders relaxed into a more normal position as he prepared to face his only living relative for the first time in what seemed a lifetime.
Kagome smiled, whispering encouragement to him. “You can do this, Ban, and I’ll be right there with you.” squeezing his hand.
He smiled thinking, “That’s right. With Kags by my side I can do anything.” feeling his confidence growing stronger as he reminded himself that he was a man now, not a sniveling little kid, and even if the old man treated him like a kid, he could just tell him off and walk away. Mind made up, he sat waiting with his beloved where she belonged, by his side.
As the car slowed to a halt, he took a deep breath, gathering all of his courage to him and climbed out of the car. Kagome was right behind him. Hiromasa walked over to the door, excited to view the long awaited reunion though anxious his hard-headed friend might run the boy off again.
Hiromasa knocked on the door and he and his small family were admitted inside the mansion and escorted to the drawing room. Kagome and Bankotsu stood outside the room waiting for their host to appear before they announced their presence.
Minutes later, an old man using a cane walked into the room, greeting, “Hiromasa, my old friend. What brings you to visit this lonely old fool?” as he slowly sat on the couch with his cane in front of him.
Hiromasa replied, “Actually I decided it was time to visit you, seeing as it’s been a while now.”
The normally tough old bird said, “I see you even brought the family this time.” indicating Sora and Souta. He said, “Sora, you’re looking lovely as ever.” Turning to her son, he added, “I’ve been hearing a lot about your soccer games. You’ll make a fine athlete one of these days.” His eyes filled with deep sorrow as he added softly, “Like my great-grandson.”
Taking a deep breath, Bankotsu cleared his throat and stepped into the room with Kagome’s hand in his and said, “Hello, Grandfather.” staring the old man dead in the eye.
Tomi’s hand holding the cane shook and his cane clattered to the floor as he asked, afraid to believe his eyes, “Bankotsu, my boy, is it really you?” holding out his trembling hand, motioning for him to move closer.
Squeezing Bankotsu’s hand, Kagome signaled him to go ahead. He smiled at her and said, “Hai, Grandfather, it’s me.” moving to stand in front of the old man.
Tomi’s hand went up to cup his face, making Bankotsu shift, a bit uncomfortable. When the old man noticed and went to withdraw his hand, Bankotsu’s hand closed around it holding it to his face as he said, “It’s me.” staring into his eyes.
Jubilant gray eyes stared up into the unmistakable blue eyes of his missing heir, and he hugged the boy with tears falling down his weathered cheeks as he sobbed, “Thank Kami-sama! Oh boy, I’ve missed you terribly.”
Bankotsu stood there shocked, patting the old man on the back, assuring, “I’ve returned Grandfather.” with moisture in his own eyes as his strong arms carefully circled the older man in a warm embrace.
Unable to hold back her own tears any longer, Kagome sobbed into her handkerchief. Bankotsu pulled back, holding out his hand to her. She gave him a watery smile and placed her hand in his. Bankotsu pulled her close to him and stood upright, explaining, “Grandfather, I’d like you to meet my fiancée, Kagome Higaurashi.” eyes shining with pride he introduced, “Kags, my great-grandfather, Tomi Ryuusan.”
Tomi inhaled a slow breath and said, “Pleasure to finally meet you, Kagome. You have your mother’s beauty.” as he shook her proffered hand.
Kagome beamed, saying, “Thank you, Mr. Ryuusan, it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
Tomi scoffed, “None of the formalities, my dear, just call me Tomi or Grandfather, either will do.” sending her the first genuine smile he had given anyone in years.
Kagome blushed, “Thank you, Grandfather Tomi.” and moved back to stand at Bankotsu’s side.
One arm went around her waist as Bankotsu said, “I saw you on the news.”
Tomi smiled, admitting, “I had hoped you would come home.”
Bankotsu said earnestly, “I’m here, but first I need to make some things clear. Firstly: Kagome and I are engaged because we want to be, not because of what you and her great-grandfather did. We will marry, but only when she is ready- not before! Secondly: I still have no intention of running the business. I-”
Tomi raised a hand, cutting him off and said, “Don’t worry about that. Right now, let’s just enjoy visiting.” Shocked, Bankotsu nodded as he and Kagome sat together on a smaller couch.
Tomi asked, “How did you two meet?” curiosity filling his gray eyes.
Bankotsu said, “You won’t believe this, but we met in Ancient Japan.”
Tomi’s eyes widened, and Kagome confirmed, “The Feudal Era to be exact.”
Tomi said, “By all means, please explain.” eager to learn about his great-grandson’s meeting his betrothed.
Kagome said, “Well, the old well-house at my family’s shrine was connected to that time.” and began explaining about her times and her mission with the Inutachi.
Tomi nodded, asking, “And you?” turning his complete attention to his heir.
Bankotsu told him everything, right down to his massacres with the Schichinatai, unsure how the old man would react. Even still, he refused to be ashamed of his actions, since they helped mold him into who he was now.
Tomi listened with an open mind and shocked everyone in the room by saying, “It sounds like you had a very interesting time during your absence.”
Bankotsu blinked, asking, “You mean...you’re not disappointed in me for killing all those people?” staring at the old man as if he were a complete stranger, which in a way he was.
Tomi sighed, admitting, “You’ve had a hell of a life, my boy. And my stubborn old ways hasn’t made things any easier on you. The fact that you were able to overcome all of it plus all of what you’ve told me proves how strong you are, not just physically, but emotionally too.”
Grinning, he continued, “How could anyone not admire all that you’ve managed to overcome to become who you are now?”
Hiromasa said, “Praise Kami, I do believe you have finally joined the ranks of common sense, you old coot.” walking over to clap the old man’s shoulder in a joyful manner.
Tomi blushed slightly, admitting, “When you’ve spent years regretting the way things left off, you tend to have a different look on life.” Turning to Bankotsu, he added sincerely, “I do regret the way we left off that night.”
Clearing his throat, he said, “I realize now that I was out of line. You should have been allowed some freedom in making choices for yourself.” Adding in a voice filled with remorse, “I’m only sorry it took you leaving to finally open my eyes.”
Standing up, Bankotsu crossed the room with tears in his eyes and said, “Forget it, Grandpa, let’s just enjoy whatever time we still have.” hugging the old man gently so as not to upset his condition.
Tomi heaved a heavy sigh informing him, “I’m afraid that won’t be long.” Staring into his eyes he concluded, “The doctors say it’s a miracle I’ve made it this long.” and began coughing.
Bankotsu said, “It’s okay, Grandfather, I intend for us to make the best of whatever time we have left.” sending him a smile.
Tomi smiled back, saying, “Thank you for coming home. I hope you can forgive this old fool someday.” smiling, overjoyed to have his beloved great-grandchild home once again.
Bankotsu said, “If there is one thing I have learned over the years, it’s that everyone deserves a chance to be forgiven.” smiling as Kagome walked over to hug his waist.
Kagome, agreed, “Absolutely.”
Taking the older Ryuusan’s hand in his, Bankotsu said sincerely, “I forgive you, grandfather.” and hugged him. Tomi hugged the boy back, whispering, heartfelt, “Thank you.” and closed his eyes thinking, 'Now I have no more regrets.' as he wiped a tear from his cheek.
A/n: Short I know, but I just feel this is a perfect place to cut off on this one. So, there’s chapter eighteen- enjoy! XD