InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Standing the Test of Time ❯ Chapter four ( Chapter 4 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
By: sunstreak 
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Drama | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 08.27.2005 | Pages: 2 | Words: 2.4K | Visits: 165 | Status: Completed
Anime/Manga: InuYasha Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Angst / Romance / Drama | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 08.27.2005 | Pages: 2 | Words: 2.4K | Visits: 165 | Status: Completed
Chapter 4: Celebrate for the Moment
The village had spent the evening preparing food and games to celebrate the victory against Naraku and to thank the group for all their sacrifices and not to mention it was a good-bye party for Kagome as well. The whole town was lit up by decorative lanterns and every block was lit up by torches as well. Every one was bustling about, trying the different foods and talking with various people and Kagome even found herself getting involved with the village children’s games. There was a roar of laughter after Kagome had taught the children the three legged race and sent them to compete in a race for some prizes of chocolate that Kagome had brought. The party almost helped Kagome forget what tomorrow held for her until she noticed that something or actually someone was missing and that someone was Inuyasha.
“Sango, Miroku, have either of you seen Inuyasha?” Kagome asked her friends who were sitting with other villagers, sipping on sake and telling their story about the fall of Naraku.
“I’m sorry Kagome, I haven’t seen him since we got back and we all split up.” Sango said.
“Hm, I think I saw him go towards the direction of Kaede’s hut not that long ago.” Miroku said pointing in the direction he last saw the hanyou.
“Thank you Miroku, I think I should talk to him, he’s been awfully standoffish as of late.” Kagome said as she walked off and waved at her friends.
Kaede’s hut was dark and still, say for the smoldering embers in the fire pit. It took a couple of seconds for her eyes to adjust and when they did get use to the lack of light, she saw Inuyasha’s figure stretched out on his side with his back to her, in the back of the hut.
“Inuyasha?” Kagome called softly.
“Feh, what is it? Shouldn’t you be out celebrating with every one else?” Inuyasha replied, not turning to look at Kagome.
“Inuyasha, I came here to talk. You’re obviously upset and I’d like to help.” Kagome pleaded.
“Why should I be upset? You’re only going to walk out on us forever tomorrow, but that’s no big deal.” Inuyasha snorted sarcastically. Kagome sighed and went over to were he remained on the floor and sat down with her back inches from his.
“Inuyasha it’s not like I want to leave you forever, but it would be hell for my family if I decided to stay here.” Kagome spoke softly. Something in her voice got Inuyasha’s attention and he sat up next to Kagome and watched as conflicting emotions crossed her face before she continued. “You see Inuyasha, I’m not old enough to just leave the school system. If I came here, my school might become overly worried and will probably start questioning my family. What if they think my family murdered me because they assumed I was too much trouble for my family with me being so ‘sick’ and everything. My family would go to jail forever because they wouldn’t believe that I’d be living 500 years in the past. Do you understand Inuyasha?” Kagome asked as she locked on to Inuyasha’s eyes, trying to read his expression.
“I guess I do. I didn’t know that it would be that much of a problem on your side if you stayed.” Inuyasha said softly.
“I’m not leaving you because I don’t like you guys any more. I would love nothing more than to stay, but if only I were a little older. You’re not mad at me are you Inuyasha?” Kagome looked at Inuyasha with tears threatening her eyes.
“Of course not. Stupid girl, I know that you’d choose what’s best for you and I guess that’s what matters, right.” Inuyasha winked at Kagome, but something about his face told Kagome that there was something else.
“Right. Inuyasha, is there something else bothering you about my leaving tomorrow?” Kagome asked bluntly.
“You can read me like a book, huh?” Inuyasha said as he noticed Kagome staring at him. “I guess the whole note book idea is great, but while you’re able to keep tabs on everyone while in your time, how are we suppose to know how you’re doing? I mean, what if something happens to you? I guess I’m worried that tomorrow is the last time we’ll ever see each other again and I guess it kinda has me scared.” Inuyasha stated.
Kagome looked at Inuyasha with concern written in her eyes. ‘So that’s what’s bothering him. I never knew he felt that way. Did he just admit to being scared? He really is worried’ Kagome’s mind cried. “Don’t worry.” Kagome said as she lightly leaned her head against Inuyasha’s shoulder. “I know everything is going to be okay.”
“How? How is it going to be okay? Kagome, has it occurred to you yet that this is it? Tomorrow you’re leaving and the well will be sealed behind you. It’s the end of the line and you say it’s going to be okay. I’ll believe it when I see it.” Inuyasha suddenly snapped, but quickly regretted it when he heard her start to cry, her salty tears stinging his sensitive nose. “Ah, please don’t cry Kagome, I didn’t mean it.” Inuyasha pleaded.
“No, you’re right. It does seem like tomorrow’s the end, but I know that it’s going to work out, it has to. I know we didn’t come all this way and hurt the way we have all for nothing. I’ve been wishing and wishing on the jewel to let the well not close, but it doesn’t respond at all.” Kagome said as she pulled the jewel from her pocket and studied it.
“Kagome, I didn’t mean to make you cry. It’s just that I’m mad at the fact that fate plays these evil games with our lives and it seems fate has handed us some pretty crappy cards and it’s just hard for me to look on the up side of things.” Inuyasha said.
“I know. Hey Inuyasha, would you accompany me outside and enjoy the rest of the night with all of us?” Kagome asked as she stood up and offered Inuyasha a hand.
“I sure would.” Inuyasha replied as he took Kagome’s offered hand and stood up himself.
Out side the festivities were still in full swing only now the music that was playing perked up as villagers started dancing and singing about ages of old. The village children were still playing the three legged race game, only now it had turned into a complicated game of tag.
“Looks like Kagome’s talk went over well.” Miroku said to Sango as he pointed at Kagome leaving the hut with Inuyasha close behind her.
“Kagome! Inuyasha! Over here!” Sango called as she waved them over. Kagome and Inuyasha sat down with the two and Kagome couldn’t help notice that they seemed a little tipsy and she couldn’t help giggle at that fact.
“Want some sake?” Miroku offered with a large grin on his face.
“No thanks, I’m still a bit young for that.” Kagome said politely, refusing the small glass of sake being offered to her. She also didn’t have a real taste for sake either.
“Feh, I don’t drink poison.” Inuyasha snorted.
“That’s fine, more for us.” Miroku said.
“I think we’ve had enough Miroku.” Sango said with red gracing her cheeks.
“Ah, there thee be. I have been looking for ye all. I hope the festivities are to ye liking?” Kaede’s voice came from behind Miroku and Sango.
“Yes Kaede, the party is wonderful. So much color and music! How ever did you get this put together in such a short time?” Kagome asked.
“My child, this poor village has been waiting a long time to celebrate like this. Just say that it has been planned for quite some time now.” Kaede said with a smile. “Won’t you come with me and watch our dancers perform for ye?”
“We’d be honored, lady Kaede.” Miroku said as he got to his wobbly feet. He then offered Sango his hand and she took it, standing to find Miroku’s wandering hand on her bottom. Of course, as it was habit of Miroku to grope Sango, it was habit of Sango to immediately slap Miroku.
“Wow, good contact Sango!” Shippo said as he came bounding up to Kagome and Inuyasha with some treats in hand.
“Shippo! There you are. Are you having fun?” Kagome asked.
“Sure am! Look at all the treats the villagers gave me. Hey, are you going to watch the dancers? They’re pretty good.” Shippo said with a mouth full of candy.
“Yea, let’s go watch together. You coming Inuyasha?” Kagome asked as she got to her feet to make her way over to the dance pit. Inuyasha only nodded and got up and followed Kagome to were the dancers were getting ready to perform a special number for their saviors.
The dancers were dressed in their best with bells that rang sweetly with every movement they made and ribbons that flowed in the slightest of breeze. Everyone’s eyes were on them once the music started and the dancers started moving as if they had become the very notes that flowed from the instruments. Kagome found herself daydreaming as she watched the hypnotic movements of the dancers. She started remembering how on nice days she would ride her bike with Inuyasha and Shippo and the feeling of her hair as it flowed in the wind, similar to the way the dancer moved their ribbons. She felt a tear slip down her cheek as she realized those days were now gone. Inuyasha was quick to notice the tear, he was standing right beside Kagome and could smell it the second it left her eye. He turned to look at her and make sure she was okay when he found himself starring at the far off daze in Kagome’s eyes. ‘I bet I know what she’s thinking about’ Inuyasha sighed, knowing full well Kagome was reminiscing about the past. ‘I must have had that look at least a hundred times today’ Inuyasha thought as he turned to watch the performance again.
The dancers had finished and every one stayed still and quiet as Kaede made her way to the dancing pit. It seemed that she was going to speak and being as highly respected as she was, every one quieted down and didn’t move so they could clearly hear what the old miko was about to say. “Thank ye all for being here tonight. This night couldn’t have been possible if not for the determination and companionship of our lady Kagome, our once feared enemy turned friend, Inuyasha and their good companions Sango, Miroku and Shippo. And as the sun sets tomorrow, we shall be giving a loving and tearful farewell to the lady Kagome, so tonight we celebrate and give thanks and farewell to ye Kagome, ye have given us hope back and so we give ye many thanks. Tonight we live and cherish the time ye all have left together and tomorrow ye all should spend the day together before Kagome’s departure.” Kaede said as she addressed the group with a tear in her one good eye. Kagome had broken down and started crying and threw herself, carefully, into Kaede’s offered embrace.
“Oh Kaede! You’re too kind. Thank you and thank you all for the support, I’ll never forget you or my time here.” Kagome cried against her shoulder as a cheer came from the crowd and in unison cried “Thank you lady Kagome.”
After the tearful speech, the party continued, but it had died down a bit but people were still having a good time. Shippo had gone back to Kaede’s hut to sleep after the speech, leaving the ‘adults’ alone to talk.
“So, how should we spend tomorrow?” Sango asked.
“That’s a good question. Obviously we will be spending it together with Kagome.” Miroku added.
“Well, I had been thinking about that for a while now.” Kagome spoke up softly.
“Yea? And whatcha’ come up with?” Inuyasha asked.
“Well, I thought about it and seeing how we originally met, shall we say, not under the greatest circumstances and have been through a lot together, I thought maybe I could take a walk with each of you and we can talk. Do you guys think it’s crazy?” Kagome asked as she found the ground suddenly interesting.
“I think that is a splendid idea! I personally look forward to our time together.” Miroku said.
“Yea, I bet pervert.” Inuyasha snorted.
“Well, that’s settled. How about instead of a walk, you and I can go to the hot spring?” Sango asked.
“Oh, that would be wonderful! It’s a date.” Kagome replied cheerfully.
“Okay then, you guys should be going off to sleep then.” Inuyasha said.
“That is fine with me, good night Inuyasha.” Kagome said as she stretched out and followed Sango and Miroku to Kaede’s hut where they’d spend their last night together, dreading the day to follow.
::::::End of Chappy::::::
The village had spent the evening preparing food and games to celebrate the victory against Naraku and to thank the group for all their sacrifices and not to mention it was a good-bye party for Kagome as well. The whole town was lit up by decorative lanterns and every block was lit up by torches as well. Every one was bustling about, trying the different foods and talking with various people and Kagome even found herself getting involved with the village children’s games. There was a roar of laughter after Kagome had taught the children the three legged race and sent them to compete in a race for some prizes of chocolate that Kagome had brought. The party almost helped Kagome forget what tomorrow held for her until she noticed that something or actually someone was missing and that someone was Inuyasha.
“Sango, Miroku, have either of you seen Inuyasha?” Kagome asked her friends who were sitting with other villagers, sipping on sake and telling their story about the fall of Naraku.
“I’m sorry Kagome, I haven’t seen him since we got back and we all split up.” Sango said.
“Hm, I think I saw him go towards the direction of Kaede’s hut not that long ago.” Miroku said pointing in the direction he last saw the hanyou.
“Thank you Miroku, I think I should talk to him, he’s been awfully standoffish as of late.” Kagome said as she walked off and waved at her friends.
Kaede’s hut was dark and still, say for the smoldering embers in the fire pit. It took a couple of seconds for her eyes to adjust and when they did get use to the lack of light, she saw Inuyasha’s figure stretched out on his side with his back to her, in the back of the hut.
“Inuyasha?” Kagome called softly.
“Feh, what is it? Shouldn’t you be out celebrating with every one else?” Inuyasha replied, not turning to look at Kagome.
“Inuyasha, I came here to talk. You’re obviously upset and I’d like to help.” Kagome pleaded.
“Why should I be upset? You’re only going to walk out on us forever tomorrow, but that’s no big deal.” Inuyasha snorted sarcastically. Kagome sighed and went over to were he remained on the floor and sat down with her back inches from his.
“Inuyasha it’s not like I want to leave you forever, but it would be hell for my family if I decided to stay here.” Kagome spoke softly. Something in her voice got Inuyasha’s attention and he sat up next to Kagome and watched as conflicting emotions crossed her face before she continued. “You see Inuyasha, I’m not old enough to just leave the school system. If I came here, my school might become overly worried and will probably start questioning my family. What if they think my family murdered me because they assumed I was too much trouble for my family with me being so ‘sick’ and everything. My family would go to jail forever because they wouldn’t believe that I’d be living 500 years in the past. Do you understand Inuyasha?” Kagome asked as she locked on to Inuyasha’s eyes, trying to read his expression.
“I guess I do. I didn’t know that it would be that much of a problem on your side if you stayed.” Inuyasha said softly.
“I’m not leaving you because I don’t like you guys any more. I would love nothing more than to stay, but if only I were a little older. You’re not mad at me are you Inuyasha?” Kagome looked at Inuyasha with tears threatening her eyes.
“Of course not. Stupid girl, I know that you’d choose what’s best for you and I guess that’s what matters, right.” Inuyasha winked at Kagome, but something about his face told Kagome that there was something else.
“Right. Inuyasha, is there something else bothering you about my leaving tomorrow?” Kagome asked bluntly.
“You can read me like a book, huh?” Inuyasha said as he noticed Kagome staring at him. “I guess the whole note book idea is great, but while you’re able to keep tabs on everyone while in your time, how are we suppose to know how you’re doing? I mean, what if something happens to you? I guess I’m worried that tomorrow is the last time we’ll ever see each other again and I guess it kinda has me scared.” Inuyasha stated.
Kagome looked at Inuyasha with concern written in her eyes. ‘So that’s what’s bothering him. I never knew he felt that way. Did he just admit to being scared? He really is worried’ Kagome’s mind cried. “Don’t worry.” Kagome said as she lightly leaned her head against Inuyasha’s shoulder. “I know everything is going to be okay.”
“How? How is it going to be okay? Kagome, has it occurred to you yet that this is it? Tomorrow you’re leaving and the well will be sealed behind you. It’s the end of the line and you say it’s going to be okay. I’ll believe it when I see it.” Inuyasha suddenly snapped, but quickly regretted it when he heard her start to cry, her salty tears stinging his sensitive nose. “Ah, please don’t cry Kagome, I didn’t mean it.” Inuyasha pleaded.
“No, you’re right. It does seem like tomorrow’s the end, but I know that it’s going to work out, it has to. I know we didn’t come all this way and hurt the way we have all for nothing. I’ve been wishing and wishing on the jewel to let the well not close, but it doesn’t respond at all.” Kagome said as she pulled the jewel from her pocket and studied it.
“Kagome, I didn’t mean to make you cry. It’s just that I’m mad at the fact that fate plays these evil games with our lives and it seems fate has handed us some pretty crappy cards and it’s just hard for me to look on the up side of things.” Inuyasha said.
“I know. Hey Inuyasha, would you accompany me outside and enjoy the rest of the night with all of us?” Kagome asked as she stood up and offered Inuyasha a hand.
“I sure would.” Inuyasha replied as he took Kagome’s offered hand and stood up himself.
Out side the festivities were still in full swing only now the music that was playing perked up as villagers started dancing and singing about ages of old. The village children were still playing the three legged race game, only now it had turned into a complicated game of tag.
“Looks like Kagome’s talk went over well.” Miroku said to Sango as he pointed at Kagome leaving the hut with Inuyasha close behind her.
“Kagome! Inuyasha! Over here!” Sango called as she waved them over. Kagome and Inuyasha sat down with the two and Kagome couldn’t help notice that they seemed a little tipsy and she couldn’t help giggle at that fact.
“Want some sake?” Miroku offered with a large grin on his face.
“No thanks, I’m still a bit young for that.” Kagome said politely, refusing the small glass of sake being offered to her. She also didn’t have a real taste for sake either.
“Feh, I don’t drink poison.” Inuyasha snorted.
“That’s fine, more for us.” Miroku said.
“I think we’ve had enough Miroku.” Sango said with red gracing her cheeks.
“Ah, there thee be. I have been looking for ye all. I hope the festivities are to ye liking?” Kaede’s voice came from behind Miroku and Sango.
“Yes Kaede, the party is wonderful. So much color and music! How ever did you get this put together in such a short time?” Kagome asked.
“My child, this poor village has been waiting a long time to celebrate like this. Just say that it has been planned for quite some time now.” Kaede said with a smile. “Won’t you come with me and watch our dancers perform for ye?”
“We’d be honored, lady Kaede.” Miroku said as he got to his wobbly feet. He then offered Sango his hand and she took it, standing to find Miroku’s wandering hand on her bottom. Of course, as it was habit of Miroku to grope Sango, it was habit of Sango to immediately slap Miroku.
“Wow, good contact Sango!” Shippo said as he came bounding up to Kagome and Inuyasha with some treats in hand.
“Shippo! There you are. Are you having fun?” Kagome asked.
“Sure am! Look at all the treats the villagers gave me. Hey, are you going to watch the dancers? They’re pretty good.” Shippo said with a mouth full of candy.
“Yea, let’s go watch together. You coming Inuyasha?” Kagome asked as she got to her feet to make her way over to the dance pit. Inuyasha only nodded and got up and followed Kagome to were the dancers were getting ready to perform a special number for their saviors.
The dancers were dressed in their best with bells that rang sweetly with every movement they made and ribbons that flowed in the slightest of breeze. Everyone’s eyes were on them once the music started and the dancers started moving as if they had become the very notes that flowed from the instruments. Kagome found herself daydreaming as she watched the hypnotic movements of the dancers. She started remembering how on nice days she would ride her bike with Inuyasha and Shippo and the feeling of her hair as it flowed in the wind, similar to the way the dancer moved their ribbons. She felt a tear slip down her cheek as she realized those days were now gone. Inuyasha was quick to notice the tear, he was standing right beside Kagome and could smell it the second it left her eye. He turned to look at her and make sure she was okay when he found himself starring at the far off daze in Kagome’s eyes. ‘I bet I know what she’s thinking about’ Inuyasha sighed, knowing full well Kagome was reminiscing about the past. ‘I must have had that look at least a hundred times today’ Inuyasha thought as he turned to watch the performance again.
The dancers had finished and every one stayed still and quiet as Kaede made her way to the dancing pit. It seemed that she was going to speak and being as highly respected as she was, every one quieted down and didn’t move so they could clearly hear what the old miko was about to say. “Thank ye all for being here tonight. This night couldn’t have been possible if not for the determination and companionship of our lady Kagome, our once feared enemy turned friend, Inuyasha and their good companions Sango, Miroku and Shippo. And as the sun sets tomorrow, we shall be giving a loving and tearful farewell to the lady Kagome, so tonight we celebrate and give thanks and farewell to ye Kagome, ye have given us hope back and so we give ye many thanks. Tonight we live and cherish the time ye all have left together and tomorrow ye all should spend the day together before Kagome’s departure.” Kaede said as she addressed the group with a tear in her one good eye. Kagome had broken down and started crying and threw herself, carefully, into Kaede’s offered embrace.
“Oh Kaede! You’re too kind. Thank you and thank you all for the support, I’ll never forget you or my time here.” Kagome cried against her shoulder as a cheer came from the crowd and in unison cried “Thank you lady Kagome.”
After the tearful speech, the party continued, but it had died down a bit but people were still having a good time. Shippo had gone back to Kaede’s hut to sleep after the speech, leaving the ‘adults’ alone to talk.
“So, how should we spend tomorrow?” Sango asked.
“That’s a good question. Obviously we will be spending it together with Kagome.” Miroku added.
“Well, I had been thinking about that for a while now.” Kagome spoke up softly.
“Yea? And whatcha’ come up with?” Inuyasha asked.
“Well, I thought about it and seeing how we originally met, shall we say, not under the greatest circumstances and have been through a lot together, I thought maybe I could take a walk with each of you and we can talk. Do you guys think it’s crazy?” Kagome asked as she found the ground suddenly interesting.
“I think that is a splendid idea! I personally look forward to our time together.” Miroku said.
“Yea, I bet pervert.” Inuyasha snorted.
“Well, that’s settled. How about instead of a walk, you and I can go to the hot spring?” Sango asked.
“Oh, that would be wonderful! It’s a date.” Kagome replied cheerfully.
“Okay then, you guys should be going off to sleep then.” Inuyasha said.
“That is fine with me, good night Inuyasha.” Kagome said as she stretched out and followed Sango and Miroku to Kaede’s hut where they’d spend their last night together, dreading the day to follow.
::::::End of Chappy::::::