InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Bankotsu's Futuristic Escapades ❯ twenty two ( Chapter 22 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: kittyb78 
A day with the family and the death of a loved one.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 12.28.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 3.2K | Visits: 333 | Status: Work In Progress
A day with the family and the death of a loved one.
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Romance / Drama | Type: Continuation | Uploaded On: 12.28.2009 | Pages: 3 | Words: 3.2K | Visits: 333 | 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
Chapter twenty two:
After a very intense, passion filled weekend of learning every of nuance of each others' bodies, bathing, and making love in the hot spring, under the waterfall- pretty much everywhere- and teaching his little minx some very exciting positions, Bankotsu reluctantly announced that the time to return had come.
Kagome’s face fell until Bankotsu promised her they would continue finding time to enjoy each others' bodies and company when it was just the two of them, and he would make sure they found time alone. She grinned, agreeing, and helped him with the bags.
They carefully made their way back to the manor and were greeted by their family.
--
Sora asked, “Did you two enjoy your weekend?” Noting the tell-tale blush on her daughter’s face and the smug smirk of her son in law, she said, “I’ll take that as a yes.”
Bankotsu grinned, remaining silent, and Kagome sort of hid behind her husband. He turned around informing her, “There is nothing to be embarrassed about, Kags.” and kissed her lips.
She immediately kissed him back. When they broke the kiss she laid her head on his chest. Sora grinned and walked into the kitchen, explaining lunch would be ready soon.
Bankotsu smirked and took their bags to his room. Kagome and Tomi sat on the couch with Hiromasa and began talking.
Minutes later Bankotsu returned and sat on the couch, pulling his wife into his lap. She smiled and draped her arms over his shoulder, happy to be in his arms again.
Tomi asked, “So how do you two like being married?” as he stared at the young couple.
Kagome said, “It’s nice.” smiling as she laid her head on her husband’s chest.
Bankotsu smirked agreeing, “Yup.” and held her.
Tomi asked curiously, “Have you two discussed where you want to live yet?”
Bankotsu said, “Actually yes. Given that the press knows of our marriage and all… I thought it would be safer for all of us, her family included, to live here for a while.”
Tomi grinned saying, “That’s a fine plan lad. This place will be yours once I’m gone anyways.”
Bankotsu said, “Let’s not discuss things like that, Grandfather. I just want to enjoy whatever time we do still have together.” standing up and placing a hand on the old man’s shoulder.
Tomi grinned, agreeing, “Okay.” as he hugged his lone heir.
Hiromasa clapped his hands and announced, “Very well then, how about we have a picnic with the family today?”
Kagome said happily, “Great idea, Grandpa,” and went to help her mother in the kitchen.
Tomi said, amused, “The staff is becoming slightly intimidated by Sora and how often she shoos them out of the kitchen.”
Bankotsu chuckled, “Yeah, Mom sure does view the kitchen as her domain.” Grinning, he added, “And I’m not gonna be the one who gets chased out for trying to tell her differently either.”
Tomi agreed seriously, “Neither am I, boy. Having that woman chase me out once was enough for me.” causing the men to laugh a bit.
--
Kagome helped Sora pack a nice-sized picnic and said, “It really is a lovely day for a family picnic, huh Mom?”
Sora agreed, “Yes, it is.” as they finished storing the covered dishes in the wicker basket. Sora smiled, asking, “So dear, are you happy now?” watching her daughter’s face light up.
Kagome grinned replying, “Oh Mom, Bankotsu is so sweet and romantic.” Reminiscing she said, “He took me to a cabin by a waterfall and a hot spring.” with a look of pure bliss in her eyes.
Sora smiled saying, “I’m glad you two make each other happy, dear.” and hugged her daughter, thinking, ‘I have a feeling I will be getting adorable grandchildren soon too.’ hiding her own excitement.
Souta and Hitomi walked into the kitchen holding hands. Souta noticed the basket on the counter and asked, “What’s up?”
Sora beamed, informing him, “We’re having a family picnic outside today. Isn’t that great?”
Souta grinned, “Alright! Maybe I can even get Bankotsu to kick the ball around with me for a bit of practice?”
Kagome said, “Why don’t you go ask him? And tell him to bring a frisbee as well.”
Turning to Sora, Hitomi asked, “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Sora said, “Sure, be a dear and get the blanket out of the linen closet.” pointing to where the linens were stored.
Hitomi nodded and left to do so, encouraging, “Go on, Souta. I’ll help them get the picnic ready.”
Souta grinned and said excitedly, “You bet I will!” running into the living room to speak with his brother-in-law.
Amused by his brother-in-law’s enthusiasm, Bankotsu replied, “Sure squirt, sounds like fun.” Adding, “Follow me,” as he left to retrieve a soccer ball and a frisbee.
With excitement mounting at the idea of having another male to practice with, Souta eagerly followed him.
Tomi said happily, “I haven’t seen Bankotsu kick the ball in a long time.” He was happy his great-grandson had agreed to help the younger boy. He added, “Bankotsu might even give Souta a few pointers.”
Hiromasa said, “That would definitely make the boy’s day.” nodding. He added, “We haven't picnicked together since we were just boys ourselves.” staring at his old friend.
Tomi said a bit remorsefully, “Yeah.” adding a bit cheerier, “It will be nice having a family picnic again.”
Bankotsu and Souta returned with the sports equipment, and Sora, Kagome, and Hitomi walked in with the basket, blanket, and dishes all in hand, saying, “Ready whenever you guys are.” and everyone laughed.
--
Bankotsu said, “Okay guys, follow me. I know the perfect spot for this.” as he led the way.
Kagome walked holding hands with her husband and thought happily, ‘Life just doesn’t get any better than this.’
Bankotsu happily led them over to the large cherry blossom tree with the open field and said, “This used to be a spot for lectures,” grinning at his great-grandfather he teased, “Remember, Grandfather?” eyes shining with amusement.
Tomi said, amused, “I seem to recall a certain kid who preferred drawing in the sand rather than paying attention to my lessons.” raising a brow at him.
Bankotsu admitted unashamed, “Guilty.” causing everyone to laugh as he and the old man laid out the large blanket in the shade under the tree.
Souta smiled, yelling, “Yo, Ban, catch,” and kicked the ball to Bankotsu, who stopped it with his foot, grinning.
He said, “Now it’s on, squirt.” and kicked the ball back at him.
Sora smiled with her heart feeling lighter and happier than it had been in the many years since her late husband’s death, as she watched her son and her son-in-law run off kicking the ball back and forth a while.
Hiromasa and Tomi smiled watching the youths play an age-old game they had both loved as kids. Sora sat on the blanket next to her daughter and her son’s girlfriend, saying happily, “Such a beautiful day.” as she lifted her face to stare at the cheer blossoms over their heads.
Kagome began opening the basket as she and Hitomi spread out the bounteous delicacies over one half of the blanket and agreed, “Yes, Mama, a perfect, sunny day for a close-knit family picnic.” She placed the jar of sweet tea a foot from the tree and Hitomi set the dishes off to one side.
Both girls watched happily as their better halves played joyfully and carefree in the afternoon sun.
Sora, Kagome, and Hitomi, felt their hearts swell with happiness and pride as they watched the two younger men playing like carefree kids.
Hiromasa asked, “Anyone else up for some tea?” Everyone on the blanket nodded so he began pouring cups of tea and passed them out. Tomi smiled as his entire being filled with peace and happiness for the first time in a long time.
Everyone drank their tea slowly just enjoying the beautiful summer-like day and being with their loved ones.
The two older men sat together reminiscing their own childhood a bit as they watched the younger men play in the hot sun. Eventually the boys got too hot and decided to play shirtless.
Kagome’s eyes stayed glued to her husband’s physique as they continued practicing soccer. After an hour, Bankotsu decided to show Souta some of his favorite tricks and Souta agreed to use them for his next big game.
Tomi watched happily, thanking the Kami above that Bankotsu had returned, and he was blessed enough to see his grandson happily married and acting like his old self again.
When his grandson and his wife had been killed, his heart had gone out to his sole remaining heir. The child had been devastated but not broken. What had broken the young child was the death of his beloved nanny, Hoshi.
Tomi sighed as he thought about that day. He had always known the nanny had been the one to raise the boy; it wasn’t too surprising considering the fact that his own son had been raised by a nanny rather than his mother.
That was one regret Tomi would carry to his grave with him. His wife had been beautiful, sophisticated, and spoiled. She had cared more about schmoozing with society, than spending time with he and their son. It was also why Tomi had only had one child. He didn’t want to watch a second one go through the kind of upbringing his son had.
He had been busy taking care of the family business most times, and she had been out rubbing elbows with high society. When his wife eventually died on a plane, Tomi had realized what they were doing and tried to spend more time with his son. After his grandson was born and his son did the same thing, Tomi had taken the kid when his father wasn’t able to be around.
When it came time for Bankotsu to enter the world, Tomi had set things up so he would be home whenever the boy’s parents were out of town, but the nanny raised the child. She was a sweet woman who was unable to have kids of her own and spent her life caring for the children of busy parents.
When the boy’s parents had died, he’d taken custody of Bankotsu and moved him and the nanny into the estate with him. He’d done his best to ensure the kid was sheltered and well educated. After the nanny died he had hired another, but she and the boy seemed at odds the whole time.
He’d buried himself back into the company to hide from his past failures and did everything financially possible for the kid. He understood now what the boy had needed most was love, not money.
Shaking himself from his dismal thoughts, Tomi determined to make amends for the past and enjoy every minute they had left together.
Souta and Bankotsu fell onto the ground by the blanket huffing and puffing while laughing at their follies. Sora said, “Okay boys, time to rest a bit and eat.”
Both of their faces lit up as they waited to get their food. Laughing, Kagome and Hitomi dished up the plates and began passing them out to everyone. The two younger males hungrily tucked into their food and drained their tea glasses several times.
Hitomi, Sora, and Kagome all laughed and made sure the boys had plenty to eat and drink in between eating their own food. Tomi and Hiromasa took their time savoring each dish and chattered happily about their childhood and some of the rarer foods they had eaten.
Everyone complimented Sora’s cooking which made her beam with pride as she humbly accepted their compliments. The three women chatted happily while the four men chatted a bit.
After everyone’s food had settled, Bankotsu stood up, asking, “Who is up for a game of tag?”
Kagome, Sora, Souta, and Hitomi all stood up yelling, “Me!”
Bankotsu grinned and said, “Start running then, I’ll throw first.” Everyone smiled and took off running.
He tagged Kagome, who tagged Souta. “You're it, Souta.”
Souta laughed and chased down Hitomi. “You're it, babe.”
Hitomi laughed and tagged Sora. “You're it.”
Sora laughed and chased Kagome yelling, “You're it, Kagome.”
Smirking, Kagome ran over and tackled her husband yelling, “You're it, Ban.”
Bankotsu tickled her and then chased Souta, tagging him, and said, “You're it, Squirt.”
Deciding to join in a less exerting game, Tomi stood up and yelled, “Okay, who's up for some frisbee?”
Everyone, including Hiromasa decided to play. Tomi threw the disk to Hiromasa. He caught it and tossed it to Souta. The frisbee sailed through the air, and he caught it, throwing it to Sora, who threw it to Bankotsu.
Smirking, Bankotsu sent it sailing towards Kagome, yelling, “Heads up, Kags!”
Kagome caught it, yelling, “Coming at you, Hitomi,” and sent it flying towards the younger girl.
Grinning, Hitomi caught it and said, “At you, babe!” sending it towards her boyfriend.
After about an hour Tomi and Hiromasa both sat back in the shade as Sora poured them fresh glasses of iced sweet tea.
Kagome shrieked with laughter as Bankotsu tackled her to the ground and began tickling her. “Can't... breath!” Smiling Bankotsu hopped off of her and pulled her to her feet; stealing a kiss in the process.
Smiling, Souta tackled Hitomi in much the same manner. Afterward Souta and Hitomi sat under the tree to get out of the hot sun.
Sora asked, “So is everyone having fun so far?” as Kagome was carried over the shoulder by Bankotsu who also decided it was time to get out of the sun for a bit.
Hitomi smiled, “Of course. This was a great idea.” happy to have been included.
Hiromasa smiled, “Thanks.”
Kagome smiled, adding, “We all needed a day of family togetherness.” leaning back against her husband’s chest as his back went against the tree.
Bankotsu nodded. “No kidding. Who would have thought that a picnic would be so fun?” Everyone laughed.
Sora added, “It's nice to see everyone joining in too, huh Dad?”
Hiromasa smiled. “If only these old bones were younger, I'd have stayed out there a bit longer too.”
Soru smiled. “That's okay, Dad. You can keep Tomi and me company.”
Tomi said happily, “A nice, relaxing day with the family. What more could we old guys ask for, eh Hiro?”
Hiromasa agreed happily, “Not a thing in the world, old friend.” giving him a grin.
As the sun started its downward descent, Kagome said, “I think it’s time to start heading back.
Sora agreed, “Yeah, the nights are getting colder these days.” as she and Hitomi started cleaning up the picnic while Kagome gathered up the dishes. Bankotsu helped the older men to their feet and everyone set off to return to the manor.
--
Once they returned to the manor, the two older men said they were turning in for an early night. Tomi requested Bankotsu and Kagome come to his room and spend an hour with him before he rested though.
Bankotsu and Kagome agreed and followed the oldest male into his bed chambers.
Tomi said, “Tell me more of your adventures. How did you get there? Who did you meet?”
Bankotsu told him of meeting Jakotsu and of how they had been betrayed by an employer which had led to the ambush and their first deaths.
Afterwards Kagome, as requested, told him of meeting Koga and the wolf demon tribe. Bankotsu kept his jealousy in check reminding himself that she was with him now and that would never change.
Tomi said, “Sounds like an exciting life indeed. I’m glad to have had the chance to see you again lad. And Kagome, I’m glad to know my great-grandson has such a wonderful wife.”
Not ready to sleep just yet, Tomi requested, “Kagome, will you tell me of the final battle you spoke of?”
She smiled and recounted every detail she could remember of her and the Inutachi’s final battle against Naraku. Bankotsu as well listened intently to her story.
As the battle started getting heated, Tomi’s eyes slowly drifted shut and his breathing evened out. By the time Kagome had told him of the jewel and Inuyasha’s wish, the old man’s breathing had ceased and his withered old face wore a peaceful expression.
When she looked down and saw that he had stopped breathing, her eyes welled with tears. Trying to hold back his own tears, Bankotsu wrapped his arms around his wife and led her from the room.
In the hallway, Kagome sobbed burying her head into his chest and wept. Bankotsu’s own tears fell down his cheeks, but he consoled them both by reminding her that his great-grandfather had died surrounded by the people he loved and who loved him. And that he had also died listening to their adventures as he had wanted to.
Kagome nodded and they walked into their room crying in each others' arms until they fell asleep.
--
A/N: Okay that’s the end of twenty two -sniffs- Only one more to go.
A big thanks to The Invisible Author for proofing this! XD
Chapter twenty two:
After a very intense, passion filled weekend of learning every of nuance of each others' bodies, bathing, and making love in the hot spring, under the waterfall- pretty much everywhere- and teaching his little minx some very exciting positions, Bankotsu reluctantly announced that the time to return had come.
Kagome’s face fell until Bankotsu promised her they would continue finding time to enjoy each others' bodies and company when it was just the two of them, and he would make sure they found time alone. She grinned, agreeing, and helped him with the bags.
They carefully made their way back to the manor and were greeted by their family.
--
Sora asked, “Did you two enjoy your weekend?” Noting the tell-tale blush on her daughter’s face and the smug smirk of her son in law, she said, “I’ll take that as a yes.”
Bankotsu grinned, remaining silent, and Kagome sort of hid behind her husband. He turned around informing her, “There is nothing to be embarrassed about, Kags.” and kissed her lips.
She immediately kissed him back. When they broke the kiss she laid her head on his chest. Sora grinned and walked into the kitchen, explaining lunch would be ready soon.
Bankotsu smirked and took their bags to his room. Kagome and Tomi sat on the couch with Hiromasa and began talking.
Minutes later Bankotsu returned and sat on the couch, pulling his wife into his lap. She smiled and draped her arms over his shoulder, happy to be in his arms again.
Tomi asked, “So how do you two like being married?” as he stared at the young couple.
Kagome said, “It’s nice.” smiling as she laid her head on her husband’s chest.
Bankotsu smirked agreeing, “Yup.” and held her.
Tomi asked curiously, “Have you two discussed where you want to live yet?”
Bankotsu said, “Actually yes. Given that the press knows of our marriage and all… I thought it would be safer for all of us, her family included, to live here for a while.”
Tomi grinned saying, “That’s a fine plan lad. This place will be yours once I’m gone anyways.”
Bankotsu said, “Let’s not discuss things like that, Grandfather. I just want to enjoy whatever time we do still have together.” standing up and placing a hand on the old man’s shoulder.
Tomi grinned, agreeing, “Okay.” as he hugged his lone heir.
Hiromasa clapped his hands and announced, “Very well then, how about we have a picnic with the family today?”
Kagome said happily, “Great idea, Grandpa,” and went to help her mother in the kitchen.
Tomi said, amused, “The staff is becoming slightly intimidated by Sora and how often she shoos them out of the kitchen.”
Bankotsu chuckled, “Yeah, Mom sure does view the kitchen as her domain.” Grinning, he added, “And I’m not gonna be the one who gets chased out for trying to tell her differently either.”
Tomi agreed seriously, “Neither am I, boy. Having that woman chase me out once was enough for me.” causing the men to laugh a bit.
--
Kagome helped Sora pack a nice-sized picnic and said, “It really is a lovely day for a family picnic, huh Mom?”
Sora agreed, “Yes, it is.” as they finished storing the covered dishes in the wicker basket. Sora smiled, asking, “So dear, are you happy now?” watching her daughter’s face light up.
Kagome grinned replying, “Oh Mom, Bankotsu is so sweet and romantic.” Reminiscing she said, “He took me to a cabin by a waterfall and a hot spring.” with a look of pure bliss in her eyes.
Sora smiled saying, “I’m glad you two make each other happy, dear.” and hugged her daughter, thinking, ‘I have a feeling I will be getting adorable grandchildren soon too.’ hiding her own excitement.
Souta and Hitomi walked into the kitchen holding hands. Souta noticed the basket on the counter and asked, “What’s up?”
Sora beamed, informing him, “We’re having a family picnic outside today. Isn’t that great?”
Souta grinned, “Alright! Maybe I can even get Bankotsu to kick the ball around with me for a bit of practice?”
Kagome said, “Why don’t you go ask him? And tell him to bring a frisbee as well.”
Turning to Sora, Hitomi asked, “Is there anything I can do to help?”
Sora said, “Sure, be a dear and get the blanket out of the linen closet.” pointing to where the linens were stored.
Hitomi nodded and left to do so, encouraging, “Go on, Souta. I’ll help them get the picnic ready.”
Souta grinned and said excitedly, “You bet I will!” running into the living room to speak with his brother-in-law.
Amused by his brother-in-law’s enthusiasm, Bankotsu replied, “Sure squirt, sounds like fun.” Adding, “Follow me,” as he left to retrieve a soccer ball and a frisbee.
With excitement mounting at the idea of having another male to practice with, Souta eagerly followed him.
Tomi said happily, “I haven’t seen Bankotsu kick the ball in a long time.” He was happy his great-grandson had agreed to help the younger boy. He added, “Bankotsu might even give Souta a few pointers.”
Hiromasa said, “That would definitely make the boy’s day.” nodding. He added, “We haven't picnicked together since we were just boys ourselves.” staring at his old friend.
Tomi said a bit remorsefully, “Yeah.” adding a bit cheerier, “It will be nice having a family picnic again.”
Bankotsu and Souta returned with the sports equipment, and Sora, Kagome, and Hitomi walked in with the basket, blanket, and dishes all in hand, saying, “Ready whenever you guys are.” and everyone laughed.
--
Bankotsu said, “Okay guys, follow me. I know the perfect spot for this.” as he led the way.
Kagome walked holding hands with her husband and thought happily, ‘Life just doesn’t get any better than this.’
Bankotsu happily led them over to the large cherry blossom tree with the open field and said, “This used to be a spot for lectures,” grinning at his great-grandfather he teased, “Remember, Grandfather?” eyes shining with amusement.
Tomi said, amused, “I seem to recall a certain kid who preferred drawing in the sand rather than paying attention to my lessons.” raising a brow at him.
Bankotsu admitted unashamed, “Guilty.” causing everyone to laugh as he and the old man laid out the large blanket in the shade under the tree.
Souta smiled, yelling, “Yo, Ban, catch,” and kicked the ball to Bankotsu, who stopped it with his foot, grinning.
He said, “Now it’s on, squirt.” and kicked the ball back at him.
Sora smiled with her heart feeling lighter and happier than it had been in the many years since her late husband’s death, as she watched her son and her son-in-law run off kicking the ball back and forth a while.
Hiromasa and Tomi smiled watching the youths play an age-old game they had both loved as kids. Sora sat on the blanket next to her daughter and her son’s girlfriend, saying happily, “Such a beautiful day.” as she lifted her face to stare at the cheer blossoms over their heads.
Kagome began opening the basket as she and Hitomi spread out the bounteous delicacies over one half of the blanket and agreed, “Yes, Mama, a perfect, sunny day for a close-knit family picnic.” She placed the jar of sweet tea a foot from the tree and Hitomi set the dishes off to one side.
Both girls watched happily as their better halves played joyfully and carefree in the afternoon sun.
Sora, Kagome, and Hitomi, felt their hearts swell with happiness and pride as they watched the two younger men playing like carefree kids.
Hiromasa asked, “Anyone else up for some tea?” Everyone on the blanket nodded so he began pouring cups of tea and passed them out. Tomi smiled as his entire being filled with peace and happiness for the first time in a long time.
Everyone drank their tea slowly just enjoying the beautiful summer-like day and being with their loved ones.
The two older men sat together reminiscing their own childhood a bit as they watched the younger men play in the hot sun. Eventually the boys got too hot and decided to play shirtless.
Kagome’s eyes stayed glued to her husband’s physique as they continued practicing soccer. After an hour, Bankotsu decided to show Souta some of his favorite tricks and Souta agreed to use them for his next big game.
Tomi watched happily, thanking the Kami above that Bankotsu had returned, and he was blessed enough to see his grandson happily married and acting like his old self again.
When his grandson and his wife had been killed, his heart had gone out to his sole remaining heir. The child had been devastated but not broken. What had broken the young child was the death of his beloved nanny, Hoshi.
Tomi sighed as he thought about that day. He had always known the nanny had been the one to raise the boy; it wasn’t too surprising considering the fact that his own son had been raised by a nanny rather than his mother.
That was one regret Tomi would carry to his grave with him. His wife had been beautiful, sophisticated, and spoiled. She had cared more about schmoozing with society, than spending time with he and their son. It was also why Tomi had only had one child. He didn’t want to watch a second one go through the kind of upbringing his son had.
He had been busy taking care of the family business most times, and she had been out rubbing elbows with high society. When his wife eventually died on a plane, Tomi had realized what they were doing and tried to spend more time with his son. After his grandson was born and his son did the same thing, Tomi had taken the kid when his father wasn’t able to be around.
When it came time for Bankotsu to enter the world, Tomi had set things up so he would be home whenever the boy’s parents were out of town, but the nanny raised the child. She was a sweet woman who was unable to have kids of her own and spent her life caring for the children of busy parents.
When the boy’s parents had died, he’d taken custody of Bankotsu and moved him and the nanny into the estate with him. He’d done his best to ensure the kid was sheltered and well educated. After the nanny died he had hired another, but she and the boy seemed at odds the whole time.
He’d buried himself back into the company to hide from his past failures and did everything financially possible for the kid. He understood now what the boy had needed most was love, not money.
Shaking himself from his dismal thoughts, Tomi determined to make amends for the past and enjoy every minute they had left together.
Souta and Bankotsu fell onto the ground by the blanket huffing and puffing while laughing at their follies. Sora said, “Okay boys, time to rest a bit and eat.”
Both of their faces lit up as they waited to get their food. Laughing, Kagome and Hitomi dished up the plates and began passing them out to everyone. The two younger males hungrily tucked into their food and drained their tea glasses several times.
Hitomi, Sora, and Kagome all laughed and made sure the boys had plenty to eat and drink in between eating their own food. Tomi and Hiromasa took their time savoring each dish and chattered happily about their childhood and some of the rarer foods they had eaten.
Everyone complimented Sora’s cooking which made her beam with pride as she humbly accepted their compliments. The three women chatted happily while the four men chatted a bit.
After everyone’s food had settled, Bankotsu stood up, asking, “Who is up for a game of tag?”
Kagome, Sora, Souta, and Hitomi all stood up yelling, “Me!”
Bankotsu grinned and said, “Start running then, I’ll throw first.” Everyone smiled and took off running.
He tagged Kagome, who tagged Souta. “You're it, Souta.”
Souta laughed and chased down Hitomi. “You're it, babe.”
Hitomi laughed and tagged Sora. “You're it.”
Sora laughed and chased Kagome yelling, “You're it, Kagome.”
Smirking, Kagome ran over and tackled her husband yelling, “You're it, Ban.”
Bankotsu tickled her and then chased Souta, tagging him, and said, “You're it, Squirt.”
Deciding to join in a less exerting game, Tomi stood up and yelled, “Okay, who's up for some frisbee?”
Everyone, including Hiromasa decided to play. Tomi threw the disk to Hiromasa. He caught it and tossed it to Souta. The frisbee sailed through the air, and he caught it, throwing it to Sora, who threw it to Bankotsu.
Smirking, Bankotsu sent it sailing towards Kagome, yelling, “Heads up, Kags!”
Kagome caught it, yelling, “Coming at you, Hitomi,” and sent it flying towards the younger girl.
Grinning, Hitomi caught it and said, “At you, babe!” sending it towards her boyfriend.
After about an hour Tomi and Hiromasa both sat back in the shade as Sora poured them fresh glasses of iced sweet tea.
Kagome shrieked with laughter as Bankotsu tackled her to the ground and began tickling her. “Can't... breath!” Smiling Bankotsu hopped off of her and pulled her to her feet; stealing a kiss in the process.
Smiling, Souta tackled Hitomi in much the same manner. Afterward Souta and Hitomi sat under the tree to get out of the hot sun.
Sora asked, “So is everyone having fun so far?” as Kagome was carried over the shoulder by Bankotsu who also decided it was time to get out of the sun for a bit.
Hitomi smiled, “Of course. This was a great idea.” happy to have been included.
Hiromasa smiled, “Thanks.”
Kagome smiled, adding, “We all needed a day of family togetherness.” leaning back against her husband’s chest as his back went against the tree.
Bankotsu nodded. “No kidding. Who would have thought that a picnic would be so fun?” Everyone laughed.
Sora added, “It's nice to see everyone joining in too, huh Dad?”
Hiromasa smiled. “If only these old bones were younger, I'd have stayed out there a bit longer too.”
Soru smiled. “That's okay, Dad. You can keep Tomi and me company.”
Tomi said happily, “A nice, relaxing day with the family. What more could we old guys ask for, eh Hiro?”
Hiromasa agreed happily, “Not a thing in the world, old friend.” giving him a grin.
As the sun started its downward descent, Kagome said, “I think it’s time to start heading back.
Sora agreed, “Yeah, the nights are getting colder these days.” as she and Hitomi started cleaning up the picnic while Kagome gathered up the dishes. Bankotsu helped the older men to their feet and everyone set off to return to the manor.
--
Once they returned to the manor, the two older men said they were turning in for an early night. Tomi requested Bankotsu and Kagome come to his room and spend an hour with him before he rested though.
Bankotsu and Kagome agreed and followed the oldest male into his bed chambers.
Tomi said, “Tell me more of your adventures. How did you get there? Who did you meet?”
Bankotsu told him of meeting Jakotsu and of how they had been betrayed by an employer which had led to the ambush and their first deaths.
Afterwards Kagome, as requested, told him of meeting Koga and the wolf demon tribe. Bankotsu kept his jealousy in check reminding himself that she was with him now and that would never change.
Tomi said, “Sounds like an exciting life indeed. I’m glad to have had the chance to see you again lad. And Kagome, I’m glad to know my great-grandson has such a wonderful wife.”
Not ready to sleep just yet, Tomi requested, “Kagome, will you tell me of the final battle you spoke of?”
She smiled and recounted every detail she could remember of her and the Inutachi’s final battle against Naraku. Bankotsu as well listened intently to her story.
As the battle started getting heated, Tomi’s eyes slowly drifted shut and his breathing evened out. By the time Kagome had told him of the jewel and Inuyasha’s wish, the old man’s breathing had ceased and his withered old face wore a peaceful expression.
When she looked down and saw that he had stopped breathing, her eyes welled with tears. Trying to hold back his own tears, Bankotsu wrapped his arms around his wife and led her from the room.
In the hallway, Kagome sobbed burying her head into his chest and wept. Bankotsu’s own tears fell down his cheeks, but he consoled them both by reminding her that his great-grandfather had died surrounded by the people he loved and who loved him. And that he had also died listening to their adventures as he had wanted to.
Kagome nodded and they walked into their room crying in each others' arms until they fell asleep.
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A/N: Okay that’s the end of twenty two -sniffs- Only one more to go.