InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Fragile ❯ Illusions ( Chapter 8 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

A/N Uh…Oh! So, the “past” time will be doing some mean old time skipping. Meaning that it'll go from June 1991 to January 1992, for example. I'm close to wrapping up this story, about 5 to 10 more chappies, hopefully.

Oh, it was previously stated that Rin was five years younger than Sesshomaru. That was a typo. She's actually in the same grade as the gang (11th making her around 16, 17), but happens to go to a different school.

Present
Past

Illusions

Don't part with your illusions. When they are gone, you may still exist, but you have ceased to live

June 9, 1991-

"Sweet merciful freedom!" Kagome shouted as she stood up. She began to stretch and pop her bones, knowing very well that the demons in the group, especially Inuyasha, hated the sounds. A smirk lit her face as soon as the demons began to howl, telling her to stop. Inuyasha even went as far as tackling her, but making sure that she landed on him. They stayed there on the ground for several moments, trying to catch their breaths and making sure no organs had been dislocated. His arms were around her waist and their heads were awfully close.

"That's gross." Rin giggled and had the rest of the gang chucking. "How come you guys start screaming at me and Sesshy when we do that, but when Kagome and Yasha do it, no one says anything?"

"That's 'cause we're not doing anything." Kagome retorted, as she and Inuyasha detangled themselves. "Asides, seeing 'Sesshy' do anything with any one is kinda creepy. We're not ready for that yet."

"Let's just be happy the man made his move and let us move on." Miroku commented. Sesshomaru half-glared at him, but his attention refocused on his girlfriend.

"Rin, what are you doing?" he asked her. The miko just smiled and continued to break the bread into smaller pieces.

They were currently at the Higurashi Shrine, enjoying the summer afternoon. They had packed lunch, soccer balls, music, blankets, and pillows. It was a celebration that they managed to pass seventh grade or eleventh grade or freshman year at college and a celebration of Kagome's birthday. They had thrown this picnic together as a party for her, but she wanted it to be a party for all of them. At the moment, they were eating and relaxing after a playful game of soccer and singing happy birthday to the now seventeen year old miko. Music played in the background and every one was content. Curious at what Rin was going to do with the bread pieces, but content.

"Are you gonna feed the squirrels?" Sango asked as she eyed the furry creatures that were running up and down the trees surrounding them. "You oughta be careful if you do. Those things are vicious."

The groups, consisting of Kagome, Eri, Yuka, Kouga, Souta, Ayumi, Miroku, Sesshomaru, Inuyasha, Rin, and Sango's 15 year old brother Kohaku, turned to stare at her. She looked at them in disbelief.

"Yes, they are vicious. They attacked me once because I was eating an apple. They got on top of my head and then went inside my shirt. They scratched me up real good and wouldn't get out." Sango said. Kohaku seemed to recall the story and started laughing hysterically. "What? You were there!"

"Sango, those weren't squirrels. It was that one wolf chick in school. She was mad at you because you had supposedly stolen her boyfriend. So, she used her leaves to go after you." Kohaku said. Sango looked at her brother stupefied and wondered if it had been a good idea or not to bring him to the picnic and introduce him to her friends. Souta broke the silence and began to laugh loudly, followed by his sister and her lover.

"Sango got beat up by a bunch of leaves?" Eri said, laughing. Rin tried to suppress her laughter unlike the rest of the group, but a few giggles left her. She threw the breads crumbs as far as they would go and watched as the 'vicious' animals quickly ate them. "Wow, wait till that spreads around the school."

"Hey, in her defense, it was an ookami who beat her up using some leafy powers. There's a difference." Yuka said, trying to defend Sango, but just ended up making it worse.

"Thanks Yuka. You are a miracle worker." Sango grumbled. "It was that one psycho red-head wasn't it?"

"Yeah. She was gorgeous, but crazy as fuck." Kohaku said. Sango scowled and he laughed. "You know it's true."

"Sadly." Sango sighed. "Any one care to change the topic?"

"So, Kohaku, how do you like Tokyo so far?" Miroku asked the younger guy. He shrugged his shoulders.

"Eh, it's okay. I'm glad I've made friends easily, but we don't know if this time it'll be permanent or not. My aunt said that we might stay, but my uncle doesn't want to." He answered.

"Aren't you in training for the demon slayer shebang?" Kagome asked, munching on some trial mix. Inuyasha stole some from her bag and she hit him in the head. He growled and then punched her in the leg. She yanked his hair and he bit her arm (not enough to draw blood). Sesshomaru ended the fight by throwing apples at both of them. Inuyasha grabbed his, glared at his half-brother, and began to eat the fruit.

"Yeah. When I turn 15, I'll officially be allowed to work with my sister and the family. I have to go through an orientation, some tests, a celebration, and bang! I'm an official Taijiya." Kohaku said.

"How many more months till?" Yuka asked, taking the stem of the cherry she was about to eat.

"About four and a half." Kohaku estimated. "At the end of November is my birthday so that is when the celebration takes place."

"You're older than me?" Souta asked in disbelief. He was so certain that he was the older of the two. His close friend shrugged. "I was born in May 1977. I'm gonna turn 15 next year."

"I guess I am. Ha ha." Kohaku said, blowing a raspberry. Souta threw the soccer ball at him and then they both got up to play a little soccer. Eri and Yuka got up too and joined them. Playing two on two, making some trees the goal, they left the others to enjoy a friendly game.

"Well, that was interesting." Kagome said, noticing how quieter it got with the four missing members of the group. "So, anyone else wanna share something with the class?"

"Well, um, Koharu is moving back into town." Miroku said with a grimace. Everyone, including Sesshomaru and excluding Sango, winced. Sango looked confused, wondering if this Koharu chick was really that bad enough to get a reaction out of emotionless Sesshomaru and kindhearted Rin and Ayumi who never thought badly of anyone.

"Who now?" Sango asked incredibly curious. Kagome sighed and took a deep breath.

"Koharu is an ex of Miroku's and she is one that does not let go easily. They dated back in middle school and right away, she got the notion that she and Miroku would end up marry and together for ever. She was incredibly clingy and practically no one liked her. Even awesome Ayumi and Rin here were annoyed by her. She was Miroku's first girlfriend and he was her first boyfriend. Eventually, he got it through his thick skull that she was like Velcro and then broke up with her. But she refused to accept it and kinda became his personal stalker."

"Kinda?" Miroku snorted. He usually refrained from speaking the worse about his exes, but Koharu was a special exception. "She would always be right behind me where ever I was, invite herself into my room, and just watch me 24/7. It was so…..creepy!"

"Wow. You sure know how to pick 'em." Sango said. Inuyasha laughed.

"That's what I said." He commented. Kagome half glared at him and smacked his head.

"Oh shut it. Continuing with the story, before we entered high school, her parents realized what she was doing and sent her away to…um…where was it?" Kagome asked Miroku.

"To Thailand to stay with some relatives." Miroku answered. Kagome snapped her fingers.

"There you go. She moved to Thailand. She continued to call and send letters to Miroku, but ever since we started this year in school, she stopped. Now that was weird." Kagome commented. Inuyasha nodded.

"I kinda developed a schedule around her calls." Inuyasha said. Rin and Ayumi laughed. "She would always call every day before school and after school. I knew I was running late to school if she had already called when I went to go pick up Miroku."

"She was hell bent on knowing everything about Miroku. I remember when I first met 'Roku she felt threatened by me and actually threatened me." Rin said. Sesshomaru turned to her, his silver hair falling over his shoulder.

"What? Why didn't you tell me?" he asked her. Kagome 'aww'-ed in the background at how 'cute and possessive" Sesshomaru sounded. Rin shrugged.

"But then again, that chick felt threatened by any girl who would talk or even look at

'Roku. She nearly tried to run me over." Kagome said. Inuyasha laughed.

"She should have." He said. Kagome smacked him again, and he laughed. "I'm just saying the truth."

"Every day I wonder why the fuck I save you from death. Shoulda just pushed you into hell and made sure the door hit your ass so hard, there's still an imprint decades later." Kagome taunted. Miroku laughed, realizing what Kagome was talking about.

"Wait, what?" Sango asked, knowing there was a story behind what Kagome was saying. But then again, there was always a story so there was never a dull moment. "Kagome actually saved Inuyasha's life? Egads! When was this?"

"This was at the beginning of high school. Inuyasha had thrown a huge party at his house because….well, no one was there and it was an excuse to get drunk and get laid." Miroku began.

"Hold on." Kagome said, putting her hands up to emphasize what she was saying. "You mean to tell me that parties are not a time for one to meet and get aquatinted with fellow classmates, earn some friends, and perhaps grab a few dances moves, but rather it's a time for you to drink your weight, vandalize the host's home, and then possible impregnate some drunk whore later on? My god! What kinda world do we live in?"

"One that needs to hear less of you and your god damn babbling." Inuyasha retorted. "Now, shut the fuck up, wench, and listen to the story."

"I, for once and hopefully last, agree with Inuyasha." Sesshomaru said. Everyone looked at him, wondering if perhaps the fresh air was a little too much for him. "I wish to hear the story, but Kagome won't allow it to happen. So, please, Kagome, kindly shut your trap and let Miroku continue."

"Sesshy!" Rin gasped, but then began to giggle. "Wow that was emotional!"

The group began to laugh, drawing the attention of the four members playing soccer. Knowing that she would get the story later, Yuka motioned for the others to continue the game. All of this went unnoticed by the others who were still laughing sitting on the blanket.

"Okay, anyways. Inuyasha threw the party and the pool was opened for people to use. So, everyone was having a great time and all until Inuyasha is pushed into the pool by our beloved Kouga here." Miroku said, motioning to the wolf demon, who in returned bowed as much as he could and flash his ever-so-awesome grin that made some go weak in the knees.

"You guys were fighting over what?" Rin asked. "Or was it just you guys being….you guys?"

"I don't remember." Inuyasha said, scratching his head. "Do you, mangy wolf?

"Nope, not at all, dog shit." Kouga said without missing a beat.

"I see you guys have become much closer friends since the party." Sesshomaru commented dryly. Rin giggled as the both demon males began to glare at each other. Ayumi quickly intervened and grabbed Kouga's hand, squeezing it and sending him a look.

"Holy shit, the baka ookami is whipped!" Inuyasha hollered when Kouga did stop glaring once Ayumi looked at him. "Wow, this is fucking precious."

"At least I'm smart enough to know that my girl actually loves me and cares about me." Kouga bit back.

"Okay, before this gets into a fight of "How Much of a Whore Kikyo Really Is", I'm gonna continue the story." Miroku intervened, which gained him a glare from Inuyasha. "So, Inuyasha got pushed into the pool. Now, our boy here can swim just fine. However, the pool filter was on. As we've seen, our boy here also has long hair and with the pool filter being turned on, these long hairs got sucked right in."

"Oh, don't forget to mention how he was drunk like fuck." Kagome piped. Inuyasha scowled at her and nipped her arm. She yelped and smacked his head and he bit her hand. She growled and was two seconds away from pouncing on him and tearing him to shreds, but Miroku cleared his throat.

"Okay, enough." Sesshomaru said. He stood up and picked up Kagome without effort, carried her over to where Sango was at, and placed her down. "You stay her and the hanyou will stay over there."

"The hanyou has a name that happens to be Inuyasha!" said hanyou yelled. Sesshomaru ignored him and went back to his seat, motioning to Miroku to continue with the story as he went.

"Okay, so, Inuyasha was drunk, had just been pushed into a pool, in which the filter was turned on, so once Inuyasha's long hair hit the bottom of the pool, it was automatically drawn into the filter. So, he's struggling to get free, but he's been drinking some hardcore youkai alcohol so, his struggles are in vain. Lucky for us, Kagome had decided to go into the pool and try to scare all the girls out, an effort in her part to crash the party. She saw that Inuyasha had gone into the pool but had yet to resurface. Concerned-"

"Oi, I was not concerned!" Miroku sighed as he was interrupted once again. He looked up wearily to Kagome, who was being glared at by all. "Sorry, but I wasn't worried about this idiot's ass. Get your facts straight. My earring got loose and I went down to the bottom to see if I could find it. It was my favorite one and I didn't want it to get sucked into the filter where it would most likely come into contact with tampons and condoms and whatnot. So, I searched the bottom, coming up for air a few times, moving towards the filter. I noticed that Inuyasha was also down there and had not surfaced for air like I had to do several times."

"Maybe it's 'cause I'm not as weak as your puny ass." Inuyasha taunted. Kagome stood up and promptly sat down on Inuyasha, making sure that her ass hit his crotch incredibly hard. He grunted in pain and bit his lip in order not to cry out in pain. Apparently Kagome had a few items in her back pockets, including her wallet. He rested his forehead against her back and breathed, trying to ease the pain by shifting, but Kagome would not allow it and placed more weight on his crotch.

"I then saw that his hair was caught in the filter and proceeded to laugh my ass off, even though I was under water. I was tipsy, not yet fully drunk, so I knew and understood that he would most likely die if I did not get him out of there. Already it looked like he was loosing conscious. I got out of the people, began screaming my head off that Inuyasha was dying, and got a knife from the kitchen. I ran back to the pool and jumped in. I tried using the knife to cut his hair, but it being demonic and the knife not being strong enough, it didn't work."

"So, what Kagome did was use her powers to purify only Inuyasha's hair, which I must applaud her for because it is something very difficult for a miko to do, especially when intoxicated. Anywhos, after turning Inuyasha's hair from demonic to human, she tried using the knife once more and managed to cut loose his hair. The filter let go and Inuyasha was freed. Kagome dragged Inuyasha up to the surface and was helped out by several party-goers who weren't so wobbly on their feet. They had the attention of the entire party at his point, just so you know." Miroku said. He took a breath to continue, but was beaten by Kagome.

"Okay, so in the end, Inuyasha was okay, I saved his life and managed to give him a hair cut all in one go. The beautiful forelocks he now has are thanks to me." Kagome said, tugging at the silver hair that Inuyasha had that was shorter than the rest of his mane. "So now that we finished up that story, this brings us back to what I was saying earlier."

"Which was what?" Sango asked. Kagome frowned and tried to remember, but keeping Inuyasha at bay and jogging her memory was too much for her.

"Something about hell and ass." Kagome finally said. Everyone else sighed, not bothering to remind the miko of what she had really said because that would start another conversation they were pretty sure they couldn't handle.

"So, did you hear that Kikyo gave our running back an STD again?" Kouga remarked. The group groaned and began to throw things at a laughing Kouga. They decided to get up and join the others in a game of soccer.

November 2, 2006

Kagome breathed, trying hard to keep her mind off the pain. Her doctor was changing the bandages on her back and it hurt because the bandages had apparently stuck to her skin. Bankotsu grimaced at her side, holding her hand and she gave him a weak smile. Her doctor looked at her and stopped his actions.

"You okay, 'Gome?" he asked. She laughed weakly and nodded her head.

"I'm fine. Just go ahead and rip it off like a bandage. It'll hurt less." Kagome said. Her doctor began to protest but she shook her head. "Just do it, Stuey, before I change my mind. Like a bandage."

Dr. Suikotsu sigh, knowing there was no use arguing with her. He placed on hand between her shoulder blades, avoiding as many cuts and bruises as possible and gripped the confounded bandage that refused to let go of her skin. With a deep breath, he quickly yanked it as hard as he could, grimacing at the noise it made. He noticed that the whole thing had come off completely. He also noticed that his patient had not made any noise.

"Kagome?" he asked. He moved in front of her and saw that she had her eyes closed. He looked at Bankotsu confused and his brother shrugged. They turned back to their friends and their eyes widened.

"Mother of fuck-"

"-Pearl"

Both brothers stood amazed as a glow began to surround Kagome's body completely, starting from her back and working its way around. The glow seemed to become brighter and brighter until they were forced to shield their eyes. It died down after a few seconds and they looked back to Kagome to find her laying back down on her bed.

"Oh shit! Kagome, wake up!" Bankotsu cursed, shaking her shoulder. A groan was all the response he got. Suikotsu pulled out his stethoscope and listened in to her heart beat. He checked her blood pressure and looked at the heart monitor, his frown never leaving his face.

"Help me sit her up." Suikotsu told his brother, who complied without saying anything. Suikotsu noticed that her hospital gown had somehow been tied back on and he opened it up. Confusion was written all over his face, but once he got a clear view of Kagome's once injured back, the words "Oh, fuck” couldn't help to slip out of his mouth.

"What?" Bankotsu took a peak at his friend's back and noticed what had caused his brother to become alarmed. "That's not a good thing?"

"No, because she has used her powers too soon and too greatly. This is bad." Suikotsu said. He went over to the phone in the room and quickly dialed a number from the top of his head. "Ohayo, this is Dr. Suikotsu….yes, if you could….Arigatou! Bye."

“Um, aren't those stupid bandages NOT supposed to stick?! What kinda cheap ass shit are you guys buying?!” Bankotsu started to yell. He was really worried about Kagome, which turned into anger. Already knowing how his brother and his temper worked, Suikotsu sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose.

“It's probably because there were so many open wounds with blood that the bandages got stuck. They must have reopened several times and the stickiness of the blood held on tight to the bandages.” Suikotsu said.

“But why would the wounds fucking reopen? She's supposed to be healing!” Bankotsu yelled, throwing all his anger management training down the toilet and into the sewers. His best friend who helped him escape from the depths of the hell he managed to dig for himself was in serious condition. It was no time to be calm.

“I don't fucking know!” Suikotsu snapped, apparently following the same train of thoughts as his brother. “Look, Lady Kaede will be here soon. She is a trained miko and a trained doctor. She'll know what to do.”

“So then what do we do while we wait for her? Rearrange the fucking furniture?” Bankotsu asked. Suikotsu pulled out his stethoscope and began to examine Kagome. Bankotsu sighed and stood at the doorway, keeping an eye out for Lady Kaede.

June 12, 1992

Kagome was speechless as she stared at the giant crowd in front of her. The sun was about to set, but it sure didn't look that way. There were so many flashbulbs and lights, that it seemed like it was still noon. And with all the “professional” paparazzi and camera-crews, everything was just so much brighter. The microphone in front of her did not seem to disappear and neither did the fact that she, Kagome Higurashi, the outcast of her high school was supposed to be valedictorian. She only wondered how much Naraku lost in order to bride the school board to make her take this position.

This wasn't for her. It was for him and for the media. They were there to witness Kagome Higurashi-Muso, the stepdaughter of business tycoon Naraku Muso, live up to the Muso name.

Naraku was a wonderful man who took in two children that were not his, who belonged to a woman he loved and lost. He was a generous demon who took his time to create a future for these kids instead of tossing them out. He was patient and gentle with them, trying to give him the best that he could, including an education. And today, his eldest child stood before her graduation class as valedictorian and as proof that Naraku was an honorable man who was a rich person, not only in money but in kindness.

Kagome hated it. She hated the stupid cap and gown she was wearing. She hated the stupid dress she was wearing underneath, along with the stupid make-up, jewelry and hair do she had. She hated that Naraku had hired some beautician, declaring that in front of the media, she would not look like the trash she was. He bought her and Souta new outfits and made sure they looked decent before stepping outside.

This graduation was a big deal. Not only because after this, Kagome would have a little bit of freedom, but because there were students here who were the kids of business hot shots. Like Inuyasha, who was the son of Japan's wealthiest businessman and Kouga, whose father was a general in the army. The media was here to see the families and any hopeful screw-ups.

And as much as Kagome would like to be that screw-up, she couldn't. She took a look at her 15 year old brother, who would begin his second year of high school. His birthday passed a month ago and he looked so grown up in his suit. He looked very uncomfortable and tried not to shift in his seat, but he could not help it. Naraku glared at him and whispered something that made him stop. He looked at her and flashed her a smile.

It was because of him, her only brother, her only family, that she would not expose Naraku's two sides. It was because his life would be in danger was that she did not speak about how her life was threatened on a weekly basis. Because she loved him, she refused to run away, only that have them hunted down and “accidentally” killed. It was because of Naraku's power not only in the business world, but in the Underground that she was afraid to take her brother far away.

The principal finally finished his speech and it was her turn to talk. She had been so unprepared for this, falling out of her seat in class when it was announced that she would be the valedictorian. Everyone, including the staff and her self, thought that (surprisingly) someone like Kikyo or maybe Ayumi would be the one who would make the huge speech, but apparently, Kagome was a “better” candidate in the eyes of the school and the student body.

So, scared shitless, she took a deep breath and let out a shaky smile. Everyone's hearts were beating rapidly, afraid that Kagome would mess up, knowing that she would. Eri and Yuka finally stopped crying and looked at their friend, praying she wouldn't say something wrong. Ayumi clutched her boyfriend's hand and Kouga was practically chewing his fingers off. Rin (whose school already had its graduation) and Sesshomaru didn't look at nervous, but still were on the inside. Miroku and Sango had joined Eri and Yuka in the silent chanting and also held hands. Finally, Inuyasha looked the calmest, surprisingly. He knew the consequences if Kagome screwed up; however, he had complete faith in her and knew that her speech would knock the panties off of everyone.

“Ladies and gentlemen,” Kagome began. The crowd sort of let out their breath, but then remembered that the speech was not over yet. “I want to thank you for coming today. It's a big deal for all of us because we finally have officially left high school and we couldn't be any happier.”

This got a few nervous chuckles from the crowd, but everyone was still pretty stiff. Kagome licked her lips and tucked a piece of hair behind her ear.

“We are happy because today, we are no longer just another bunch of high school kids. Today, we are graduates moving forward and creating our own lives. Because of this school, our family, and our friends, we know what we can do. We know our limits and we know when to push it so that we can accomplish to be more than just average. And that just kicks ass.”

The crowd laughed, now some-what, but not completely convinced that Kagome could not screw up. This was after all, the girl who was rumored to have burned the cheerleaders' pom-poms, uniforms, and clothes while they were taking a showed simply because they had taunted her and her brother. So, making the best of what they could from the current situation, some members of the crowded decided to relax in the seats and become more comfortable.

“This last year in high school to me went by really fast. A little too fast for my taste. We were all rushing to make it seem like we were hard-working students, trying to impress colleges and whatnots and I really do believe that all of our hard work paid off. We all found something that some of us may or may have not been looking for: our identities. Brace yourself people: this is when I get cheesy. But it can't be helped and I blame all of my awesome, lovely friends.”

She got more laughter, some aww's and a few actual tears. It was at this point that Kagome realized that she was actually going to pull this off!

“We found out who we were, or are, this past year. Because of our friends and our families, we were pushed to the limits of what we believed that we could do. But they shoved us forward and made us do things that we really didn't want to do. They made us take extra classes and join sports, go volunteer and watch after kids. Our families would tell us to study, get good grades, stop being lazy and our friends would beg us to go with them to some extra classes or volunteer work. We all had so many people looking out for us, trying to help us out, making sure that we got ahead. Because of what of what our friends and families, we found out that we want to become activists, politicians, physicians, gold-metal winners, chefs, or simply stand out from the crowd.

“Because of today, we are prepared to do exactly that: stand out. We have a high school education, are going to get our college education soon, and with that, plus all that experiences we have, we are ready. We are going to make a difference. We've survived high school, and by law, we are ready to survive anything else. Congratulations, Class of '92! I now quote the great Elle Woods by saying, “We Did It!”

The audience stood up and cheered loudly. It might not have been the best speech, but it sure as hell shoot past their expectations. Flash bulbs went off as Kagome smile and joined their applause. She went back to her seat, receiving congratulations on her speech, and sat there for another hour as a few teachers went up to deliver their speeches. The principal finally said his last speech and before long, the graduates threw their caps in the air, cheering, laughing, crying, and celebrating.

Kagome pushed through the crowd as she went over to the closest friend: Miroku. They laughed and hugged each other. Eri and Yuka shoved their way through the crowd and began to hug Kagome. They also hugged Miroku, but made sure they knew where his hands where the whole time. Kouga showed up next with his arm wrapped around Ayumi's waist, followed by Inuyasha and Sango. They all joined in on one big old group hug (though Inuyasha loudly protested to it). After congratulations were made to Kagome for her speech, the gang moved on to talk some serious business.

“Okay, so, what color dye did you get, Inuyasha?” Kagome asked him. Inuyasha shrugged and was promptly slapped by Sango.

“Ow! Alright, I got the whole fucking rainbow.” Inuyasha said, rubbing his head and scowling at Sango.

“What time do the sprinklers go off?” Ayumi asked. She had opposed to the plan from the start, but once Kagome explained that she was not going to give Naraku the satisfaction of having her play the perfect daughter, she caved in.

“I set it to go off in about five minutes. Maybe less.” Miroku said, frowning at his watch. He tapped the screen and suddenly, the watch read that it was 1.45. He groaned and Kouga laughed.

“Dumb-ass.” Eri and Yuka frowned. They wanted to escape before the sprinklers went off so that they wouldn't get their clothes wet. But because Miroku didn't know what time he had set the sprinklers, they could end up getting wet.

“Great! For all we know, the sprinklers could set off today or they could set off in a week.” Sango growled as she threw her hands in the air. Inuyasha winced and moved away from her.

“This sucks.” Kagome said, as she kicked the grass. Their graduation had been held in the football field to better accommodate the guests. It had been Kagome's idea to pull off a prank to piss off Naraku. They all had thrown in a few ideas, and the best thing they could think off was the dye the sprinkler water and set it to go off right after the ceremony. It wasn't something big because that would cause too much trouble, but it was something that Naraku would hate.

“Well, I say we get going before the crowd makes like a stampede.” Inuyasha said. Sesshomaru and Rin made it throw the crowd and stood behind the gang, offering their congratulations. However, before the conversation could go any further, the sprinklers went off.

That's right; the sprinklers turned on and soaked the entire crowded in a variety of colors. The entire crowd started shouting, laughing, and a few people began to cuss. The gang stared in shock and began to laugh hysterically. Kagome looked for Naraku in order to see his reaction, but there were too many people moving around, trying to get away from the sprinklers that she could not spot him.

“Hey, wench.” Inuyasha called out to her. Already used to the nickname he had given her (and only her, Miroku observed), Kagome turned to him and to the chair he was pointing up. She got the hint and placed her foot on the chair in order to jump up on it. Inuyasha grabbed her hand to give her a boost, and she turned to him.

“You best not look up my skirt.” Kagome said to him. Inuyasha laughed and leaned closer to her, so close that it made Kagome paranoid and looked around her. Inuyasha grabbed her chin and was very tempted to kiss her, but knew it would lead to nothing but trouble.

“But I've done more than `look up your skirt'.” Inuyasha teased her. No one really did find out why Kagome turned an interesting shade of red.

Kagome did finally manage to find a very angry and irritated Naraku. Luckily, Souta wasn't around. Naraku was looking around and ended up looking at the media, who were quickly trying to take as many photos, videos, and interviews as possible. She began to laugh and Inuyasha took that as his cue to bring her down from the chair. He grabbed her by the waist and set her down gently so she wouldn't fall on her high heels. His hands lingered on her waist and probably would have stayed there if Kagome hadn't half-glared at him and removed them. Though, her hands lingered on his.

“Did you find Naraku?” Sango asked. She was also eager for the evil business tycoon to get a little suffering, even if it was just simply staining his expensive suit with an orange and yellow dye. Kagome laughed and nodded.

“His suit goes from purple to brown to green. It's very interesting.” She managed to say in her most serious voice. Immediately, Sango demanded to know where he was.

“So, that means that it was you, huh Sis?” Souta said as he and Kohaku appeared behind the gang. Sango rushed to Kohaku and told him about Naraku's suit. Both set out to find him and Miroku accompanied them, along with Eri and Yuka. Ayumi was tempted, but Kouga said that his family was demanding to meet her.

“Ooh, meeting the parents? Really?” Kagome asked. “You guys have been together for more than a year.”

“Yeah, well, I've done as much as possible in order to prevent the meeting from happening. But, my pops is getting angry because my ma is mad that I haven't introduced them. And of course, she went on to tell my uncles and aunts, so know I've got to introduce Ayumi to about one-fifths of my family. Which is about 13 people.” Kouga said, doing the math using his fingers.

“Oh, wow.” Ayumi said before she sat down in a nearby chair. Kouga stood by her side and worriedly looked over her. “So, your family is made up of 65 people?”

“Ah, would you worry if I said that the people I'm counting is only on my ma's side?” Kouga asked her sheepishly. Ayumi paled and managed to shake her head. “Will it make you feel better if I went over to talk to your family?”

“But you've already met them! All six of them!” Ayumi cried out. Kagome, Inuyasha, Souta, Sesshomaru, and Rin decided that this would be the best time to leave the couple alone.

“Well, little brother, I can't believe that you actually made it to graduation.” Sesshomaru said. Inuyasha frowned.

“I ain't stupid.” Was Inuyasha's only line of defense. Souta snorted and tried to cover it up with a cough that had Rin and Kagome laughing.

“Of course not.” Sesshomaru said with a tone that assured Inuyasha that his brother thought the opposite.

“Well, before this scales into a full-blown argument, what are you guys doing tonight?” Rin asked the brothers.

“We've got a family thing.” Inuyasha simply said.

“Really. Very interesting.” Souta said. “But, for the sake of it, would you care to elaborate.”

“Why?” Inuyasha asked dumbfounded. Rin giggled and Sesshomaru resisted the urge to slap either his forehead or smack that of his brother's.

“Because I'm attempting to make conversation here. Kagome has suddenly disappeared and it's best that we look like we're having a discussion rather than standing silent like a bunch of idiots.” Souta said nonchalantly. Inuyasha was about to say something when he realized that the kid had a point.

“Kagome's gone.”

“Really, now? And what makes you say that?” Sesshomaru asked in a voice so serious that it nearly had Rin and Souta convinced. Inuyasha knew better and frowned.

“Shut up.” Inuyasha replied. Before long, an argument began and the whereabouts of Kagome were no longer a concern to the brothers, Rin, and Souta.

Kagome grumbled as Kikyo continued to pull her through the crowd. She did not understand why she even agreed to follow her cousin. Maybe it was the seriousness that Kikyo held when pulling her aside (practically kidnapping her!). Or the way the Kikyo looked. Or that she said please. Or that she begged.

Kagome grinned. Oh yeah, it was because she had begged. Kikyo Avalon had begged her, Kagome Higurashi. And that was freaking sweet.

“If you are done grinning and filling your head with more hot air, I would like to have a conversation now.” Kikyo spoke to Kagome so coldly that she almost shivered. She saw that they were in the locker rooms, all alone.

“Sorry. What is it that you want to talk to me about?” Kagome asked her cousin, all playfulness gone.

“I wanted to tell you that I'm not an idiot. I know what's going on between you and Inuyasha.” Kikyo told her. All of her breath left Kagome's lungs and she paled. She looked at her cousin in the eyes. Her fiery orange against her cold brown.

“What are you talking about?” Kagome could not believe what she was hearing. How could Kikyo of all people figure out what is going on before any one else could? Before Sesshomaru, the ever so analytical one?

“I'm talking about the silent affair that you and Inuyasha have been having behind everyone's backs for the past year or so.” Kikyo told her. Kagome looked at her shocked. “Like I said, I'm not an idiot.”

“How the hell did you figure this out?” Kagome asked her, knowing that the jig was up. Kikyo sighed and rubbed her head.

“It's pretty obvious once you start looking for something you know is there.” Kikyo replied. Kagome looked at her as if she grew a green head. “Look, rumors tend to get a bit out of hand. I'm not an idiot and I'm not a whore either.”

“You sure about that?” Kagome asked her warily. Kikyo motioned them to sit on the benches and Kagome knew that it was going to be a while before she left the locker room.

“It's true that Inuyasha was not my first. I slept with another man before him. I did not love him. I could barely stand the sight of him. But I slept with him because I decided that I would not get attached to the first man I slept with because I knew that the man who took my virginity would not be the one who I would marry. So, I gave it to someone I hate so that when I do fall in love, then perhaps we could have stayed together.”

“That almost does not make sense.” Kagome whispered. She looked up to her cousin, who remained stoic throughout her speech. Her dead brown eyes were not looking at her, but rather off into space, staring at a locker behind her. “But I guess since we're related, I understand what you are talking about.”

“When I first slept with Inuyasha, I loved him truly and deeply.” Kikyo continued, almost as if Kagome had not spoken. “There were moments when I believed that Inuyasha would be the one I would marry. I still do today, despite the fact that you are sleeping with him and I'm rumored to be sleeping with half the school. I have only slept with three men. I slept with one boy from the football team because I was bitter. Inuyasha had left me, even though I loved him and I knew that he still felt something for me. I was angry and I flirted with any male I could find and the boy was the only one who I found would be appropriate for my revenge. While the boy was kissing and touching me, I was thinking `God, I hope that Inuyasha finds out about this. I hope he feels this, that this destroys him.' I wanted him to either collapse or come crawling back to me.”

“Now, wait a minute,” Kagome interrupted. “I have not slept with Inuyasha. We've fooled around a lot but have never gone all the way. If you're gonna spill the beans, might as well have the facts straight. I don't love him; he doesn't love me. We just mess around because, frankly, we're both lonely. I got the shitty family; he's got the shitty expectations that he's supposed to meet. It started out as a joke, and it might still be that.”

“I see. For all you know, Inuyasha might still love me.” Kikyo whispered, regretting the last line. Kagome whipped around to look at her and saw that that last line was the little bit of hope that Kikyo had and it was the only hope she allowed herself to have, being ashamed of it.

“Why do you want him back? Or for him to suffer?” she asked her.

“Because I love him. He was my first love and I was his. He's slept around before me and a little during me, but he loved me and it scared him. Both of us. Despite what goes around in school and all the appearances that we create, we were serious about each other. We actually had conversations about our future, us making a family and having children together. At one point, I asked him if he could, would he turn into a human for me. And he said that he would. He was reluctant, but I assured him that as much as I wanted for that to happen, it was not possible.”

“You don't love him then.” Kagome accused her. Kikyo looked at her shock. “If you really love him, you accept all his sides. Ninjen, youkai, hanyou.”

“I thought you didn't love him.”

“I don't.” she said firmly. “I respect him. I accept him, I trust him. I'm not in love with him. I don't love him. I like him. He's a good person once you close the door. He's got his flaws, but we all do.”

“Yes, he does have flaws. Many of them. And, yet, I still love him. I really wanted for us to work out because not only will a marriage between us benefit each other, but also our families. The Takahashi's were a little hesitant to accept me because of the way I dress and act in front of others, but somehow, they managed to see through me and saw that I was just doing all the stupidity for reasons known to me. My parents were more than eager for me to be with a Takahashi to the point where my own mother suggested I get pregnant in order to trap him. And I was very tempted to go with her suggestion.”

“What?” Kagome asked in shocked. Her own aunt Kaguya had actually told Kikyo to get knocked up? “Are you serious?”

“There was a lot riding on this relationship. When he broke up with me, all of my dreams and future plans were shot down. It was a huge shock to everyone, especially to me since he gave no warning or hints or anything. He kept acting like he did with me everyday and then suddenly, he says he wants no more from me and that he wants to lead a life without me or the pressures that come from being with me. I took it the wrong way, thinking that he had come to think of me as a burden. By the time I realized that he was looking for a fresh beginning that did not include an arranged marriage, I had already slept with the football boy and rumors were spread even further because of my flirtatious nature.”

“Why do you act like that?” Kagome asked her quietly. She looked up at her cousin, whose eyes were slightly watering. But having that Higurashi stubborn streak running through her, Kikyo refused to let the tears fall. “Why do you act like a whore, yet you're an intelligent woman who screams elegance and beauty?”

“My parents. They worked hard to make sure that I'm not another family screw-up.” Kagome wrinkled her nose, knowing what Kikyo was talking about. Kagome was Higurashi family screw up. “My mother told me that she would rather rot in hell than have me be exactly like you. She always compared us, saying how her brother's demonic child was a spoiled fruit that ruined the Higurashi named. She also told me that I had to be the perfect one. I had to have the good grades, the excellent manners, the swan-like grace, and the over all `perfect lady' image. I tease guys in order to sort of rebel against what my mother had tried to enforce on me. My flirting turned me into a whore and I decided that I might as well play the part, complete with the annoying personality. All of this happened before Inuyasha and once I was with him, I showed him what my mother had forced me to become and what I truly was: a perfect lady. He told me countless times that I didn't have to do that, but I found that there were times when I enjoyed being the perfect lady.”

“Dr. Hyde and Mr. Jekyll.” Kagome mused. Kikyo chuckled and nodded.

“Exactly, except my Mr. Jekyll appeared more often than my Dr. Hyde, to the point where there were times when I forgot who I am. My mother found out about my promiscuous side and promptly threw a fit. I continue with this whole façade because I realize that I enjoy the attention that I receive.”

“You seek the male attention because you receive none from your parents.” Kagome laughed. “You are a therapist's wet dream.”

Kikyo slightly frowned but said nothing. Both girls continued to sit there, staring off, not looking at one another. The room was filled with silence, although it was not uncomfortable and very much welcomed.

“So, how did you figure out about me and Inuyasha again?” Kagome asked her. Kikyo looked down at her smaller cousin and Kagome felt it. She was smaller compared to Kikyo. Pushing the whore personality aside, Kikyo was a far greater person than Kagome could ever be. The flirtatiousness was her only flaw and it was a flaw that could quickly be rid of.

“Inuyasha began to hang out with you and your friends. I thought nothing of it since Miroku had first began to sit with you because of his fondness of Sango and that Inuyasha was merely joining his close friend. But then there were times when Miroku was not there, yet Inuyasha would still be with you and your friends. I observe him and saw that he had become attached to you. I accidentally saw that you guys were sneaking about and followed you two. I saw you both making out and soon, everything came together. You try so hard to hide it, but once you know that it's there, all of it is obvious.”

“You are the only one that knows, right?” Kagome asked her. Kikyo narrowed her eyes and Kagome could feel the sweat starting to build up. “Naraku would skin me alive if the media found out that I've become the `mistress' of the son of Japan's most influential businessman, as he would put it.”

“No one knows, and be assured that no one will find out.” Kikyo said. Kagome grimaced, dreading the next words. “But, I will warn you. I am destined to be with Inuyasha. He will be mine one day, so don't get too attached with him.”

“What?!” Kagome asked her shocked out of her wits. Destined with Inuyasha?

“My parents want me to marry Inuyasha and I will. His parents don't want to form an arranged marriage, but it matters not. Inuyasha and I will marry one day and you will not stop us.” Kikyo said coldly. Kagome bit her lip, worried that her cousin might be developing a stalker-like complexion.

“So, you're gonna start attacking us? Revealing our secrets? Making it difficult for us to fool around?” Kagome asked her. Kikyo shook her head.

“No. I'm moving to England to start my college education. I will start anew, leaving behind my promiscuous nature. There, in a new country, I will begin to leave my mask behind and show that I am my mother's dream come true.”

“I don't understand why you would leave behind such an evil, tainted image of yourself. Shouldn't you try to make sure that people don't remember you as a whore?” Kagome asked her.

“I will not waste my time with petty things. I would be wasting my breath. I will leave and come back as a new woman. As the perfect lady.” Kikyo said with such a tone that Kagome almost believed her. “And, I warn you, that I will win Inuyasha back no matter what. He is to marry me, as he promised, and I will make sure that he upholds that promise. His mind may have been side-tracked by you and other insignificant thoughts, but I will make sure that he refocuses on the future he promised that he will create for us.”

“Kikyo, I never fooled around with Inuyasha when he was with you.” Kagome told her. Kikyo looked at her in a way that Kagome knew that she didn't believe her. “When he broke up with you, he and I were just friends and nothing more. It wasn't until months later when we started this silly thing. Neither of us takes it seriously, but we still do it because we sort of let out some stress. We both face pressures and I think it's because of that, we related and get along with each other more than usual. I trusted him with something huge and he did not let me down. He took care of me, respected me, and made sure that I was able to trust him. Things in our relationship move quickly because I think that we both found a bit of peace and were just trying to make that peace go into full-blown happiness. We haven't found it yet, and it will definitely not be with one another, but we have found some temporary tranquility. Our relationship is rocky and fast. I can't explain it to you and neither can he because both of us really don't understand what's going on. We go with whatever flow happens to be thrown at us and maybe some day, this `thing' we have going on will be what leads us to our own happiness and our own true happiness. It's messy and complicated, and I really can't explain it without stumbling with my words.”

“Well, I think you did a wonderful job just now.” Kikyo said, standing up. Kagome stood up rapidly, less gracefully, and was suddenly ashamed. Kikyo really had lost that bimbo attitude and presented herself more like a woman than a slut. “Just keep in mind that Inuyasha is and will always be mine. I promise.”

With those words left to haunt her cousin for years to come, Kikyo walked out and made sure that she was never seen of or heard from again, until many years later as she slowly fulfilled that promise she made to Kagome.

8.49 pm.

Dr. Suikotsu sighed in relief as the papers in front of him confirmed what Lady Kaede had told him. Bankotsu impatiently fidgeted in front of him and his patience finally snapped.

“Well? What the fuck do the papers say? Is Kagome alright?” he asked. His long braid had become unkempt as the owner picked up his old habit of running his hands through it. “Suikotsu, if you do not tell me right now, I will throw you out the window, along with my anger management training.”

“Funny how months ago, I was the one who really needed that training.” Suikotsu mused. Bankotsu began to growl and Suikotsu lost his humor. “Yes, she's alright. She'll be weak, nauseous, and dizzy for the next few days, but if she eats and does a bit of exercise, she'll recuperate and be better than before. Also, the baby is still strong and was not harm because of Kagome's powers. She actually seems healthier now than before.”

“Thank you!” Bankotsu said. He sat down on his chair, less anxious than before, though something did plague his mind. “Are you gonna tell her family or even report it in her charts.”

“I believe that it would be best if we keep this to ourselves. It would do no good to worry Souta or anyone else.” Suikotsu said as he opened up his drawer, placed the papers under a mislabeled folder, and locked it shut. “Lady Kaede has agreed not to say a word and neither shall we.”

“God, this has been one hell of a day.” Bankotsu muttered. His eyes widened and he looked at an amused Suikotsu. “Wait, she? The baby is a girl?”

“Yes, it's a girl.” Suikotsu said. No one had known about the sex of the baby because Kagome refused to know and refused to let any one else know. The only people who did know where Suikotsu, Lady Kaede, or someone on the medical staff.

“My god. A little girl.” Bankotsu whispered. “I wonder if she'll have the same blazing orange eyes as her mother.”

“Most likely it'll be some sort of orangey-yellow shade, since her father has golden eyes.” Suikotsu said, evoking anger once more in Bankotsu. He growled at the name of the man who broke his friend's tender heart.

“Don't you bring that man into this conversation.” He told his brother. Suikotsu sighed.

“Whether you like it or not, Inuyasha is Kagome's husband. He is the father of her children and most likely the love of her life. He had been infused in her life and practically nothing can erase him from it.” The doctor responded. He did hold a strong dislike of the half-demon, but didn't let it cloud his judgment. Inuyasha did commit a stupid thing and had tried to explain himself for it; but once Suikotsu had seen how anxious and alarmed the half-demon had been about Kagome when she had been abducted, the affair had not mattered in his eyes. Inuyasha did everything he could to bring his wife back into his arms, including nearly risking his life and getting arrested several times.

“I don't care. He hurt Kagome badly. It doesn't matter that he's her husband. That bastard nearly destroyed Kagome and because of that, Kagome had not fought back against Naraku. She let herself nearly be killed because her heart and her soul were already dead. You can thank that pathetic asshole.” Bankotsu snapped.

“I don't want to get into this conversation.” Suikotsu said as he stood up to go check on his other patients. “It is not our position to decide whether or not Kagome should forgive Inuyasha or if Inuyasha truly loved Kagome at all.”

“Then answer me one fucking question,” Bankotsu snarled as he stood up rapidly, blocking his brother's way. “Why had Inuyasha not marked Kagome in demon terms? Why wasn't Kagome his mate, bound to him and him to her for all eternity?”

Suikotsu looked at his brother. He always feared that his eldest brother would be the one who would get into the worst trouble, and his fears were confirmed long ago. But now, the man before him had managed to pull himself back together with the help of Kagome, and had managed to make a living were he did not harm others or himself. Bankotsu had turned out to be someone that you could brag about, but at the moment, Suikotsu hated him so much simply because he spoke the truth.

“I don't know.” He whispered as he dropped his gaze. Bankotsu stepped aside and Suikotsu brushed through. Bankotsu took a deep breath and followed him out, shutting close the office door.

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