Beautiful Souls

A brief sensation of falling, not unlike traveling through the well between his world and Kagome’s, and then Inuyasha was in a cave. Looking around, the hanyou realized that all the others were there with him… except Kagome. “What the fuck…”

Miroku nodded in agreement, unable to speak. Shippou and Kohaku stood together, wide-eyed.

Sango was frowning, “Wait… I know this place.” Turning slowly, she examined the cave closely, her eyes finally resting on one particular area. “It’s… Midoriko’s cave… but, she’s gone!”

Everyone realized that she was correct. The miko, whose death hundreds of years ago had resulted in the formation of the Shikon no Tama, had been forever enshrined in stone along with the demons she had died fighting. That stone relic had once rested in the very cave where the five of them now stood. However, in the place they would have expected to find it, the stone figures were now gone.

As the group moved closer together, Inuyasha drew his sword. Though it appeared that Kagome had been responsible for their being here, he wasn’t going to risk being caught unprepared. An unfamiliar voice from the shadows made the half-youkai turn quickly, sword at the ready.

“Welcome, friends.” From the furthest recesses of the cave, a woman came forward. Dressed in ancient armor, her long black hair hung nearly to her waist, making her appear as beautiful as she was powerful.

“Midoriko….” Miroku looked stunned, though whether by the inherent beauty of the miko, or by her sudden appearance, no one could tell.

The priestess smiled, “Yes. I am the miko Midoriko.”

“But… how are you here?” Sango asked, confused.

“How are we here?” Inuyasha added, re-sheathing his sword.

Midoriko nodded, “I shall explain. Ye know of my story, how I bound my soul with those of the youkai who sought to take my life, and this resulted in the creation of the Shikon no Tama.

“When Kikyou freed the remnants of her soul from its prison of her remains and burial soil, she provided Kagome with the power to purify the Jewel, as well as force my soul out to join it with hers.”

“ How did Kagome know how to do that?” Miroku wondered.

Midoriko smiled patiently, “ She didn’t… but Kikyou did. Kikyou would not have been able to do such a thing under her own power, but in completing her soul within her reincarnation, that knowledge was transferred. When Kagome touched the Shikon no Tama, the energy emanating from her enhanced soul acted on its own to free mine.”

Inuyasha was confused, “So, you’re saying that Kagome had no idea what she was doing? That her soul acted on it’s own?”

Midoriko clarified, “When Kikyou regained a part of her soul, she took power away from Kagome, and charged her small portion with all of her power and ability. When the whole soul was once again united, Kagome gained all of the power and knowledge that Kikyou had amassed by being revived. Kagome did not need to know how to do it, her soul knew. At the moment of reunification, the energy was so immense that it took over her body.”

“Why?” Inuyasha wanted to know.

“Kagome’s soul freed mine from the Jewel and combined my power with it’s own. In essence, Kagome became the purified Shikon no Tama. With the united strength of all three miko’s, she was able to force Naraku’s soul from where it had been hidden, and purify it.”

Worry suddenly clouded Shippou’s face, “If Kagome’s the Shikon no Tama now, won’t youkai all start coming after her?”

Smiling, Midoriko looked at them all, “That is why thou art here.” Ignoring the confused looks, she continued, “ Kikyou believed that, for the Shikon no Tama to be forever purified, one needed to use it for a purpose true in intent - a pure wish. This is only a portion of the truth. Kagome was willing to give her life to save her friends, and the whole world, by defeating Naraku. It was her selfless actions that allowed what occurred that night to come to pass. Her sacrifice ended the war between good and evil that has continued within the Shikon no Tama for centuries. However, until the Shikon no Tama is dispelled, it will continue to be a danger.

“In this world, everything is made up of four souls. These spirits are housed together in a physical body, which is the heart. Kagome is that heart. It is she who drew each of thee into thy circle.” Midoriko looked to each of them in turn, “ Sango, Miroku, Shippou, and Inuyasha. The four of thee, along with Kagome, have fought diligently to protect the world from the forces of evil set to destroy it. All of thee had choices to make, and had ye five not joined together, this task would not have succeeded. It is from one another that each of thee draws thy strength. Because of this, all of thee embody the purity of the Shikon no Tama, and so shall ye share in the purity of its blessings.”

Awe began appearing on each of their faces as Midoriko approached Sango and Kohaku. “Sango, warrior woman. Naraku took everything from thee in one night. Thy desire for revenge drove thee to seek after thine enemy. Thy hatred could have overtaken thee, but thou allowed thyself to accept Kagome’s friendship, and let it heal thee. Thy friendship with Kagome gave her strength as well. You are the embodiment of nigimi-tama, which presides over friendship and family. However, I cannot give thee anything, for Kagome has already granted thy wish... for thy brother’s life to be restored to him. I trust this is suitable?”

Sango nodded, unable to speak.

Midoriko smiled, “I will grant thee this as the spirit of nigimi-tama: the knowledge that thou wilt live a long and happy life. Despair shall not hold thee in its grasp for long, and thy family will grow large and strong in the spirit of their parents.”

Sango hugged her brother and smiled at Miroku through tear filled eyes, as Midoriko moved to him. Midoriko took the monk’s hand, making him blush. For once, Sango didn’t seem to mind.

“Houshi-sama, trained for a life of great brevity. Thou could have lived thy life alone, and in despair until thy curse devoured thee. Yet thou recognized the power in Kagome and, in thine wisdom, chose to fight with them instead of against them. Close thine eyes, and I shall see what thy mind desires.” A brief moment passed before the miko spoke again. “I see. The nature of thy desire is complicated to thee. Ye feel unable to protect those ye love, yet ye fear the consequences of what ye have already lost. Fear not, Miroku, for thou art the embodiment of kushimi-tama, whose spirit presides over wisdom. Thou art correct in thy desires, for I shall ask more of thee and thy companions, and ye shall have need of what ye desire. Miroku, to thee I return thy kazaana, to open only at thy command, as ye feel is wise. Never again shall ye fear being devoured by it’s presence.”

Miroku bowed his head and kissed the priestesses hand, deep respect filling his face.

Shippou looked down as Midoriko approached him. Surprisingly, she reached down to lift him into her arms.

Shippou’s eyes grew wide for a moment, then he turned his eyes away, “I don’t suppose you have anything for such a small, full-youkai like me.”

Midoriko’s smile was gentle, “Think ye that thou art so little and so evil, young youkai, that I would not reward thee for thy courage? For though thou could have chosen a path that lead to thy death, thou bravely accepted the help of strangers to avenge the death of thy father. In the many occasions that followed after, thou hast repaid their kindness by risking thine own life to protect the lives of thy friends. For this, thou art the embodiment of arami-tama, who presides over courage.”

Shippou looked doubtful, “That wasn’t courage. I was scared all the time. I only did it because they were my friends and would have done the same for me.”

Midoriko nodded, “Courage is not the lack of fear, but action in the face of it. Little kitsune, the purity of thy fear does not stop thee from acting. Wilt thou allow me to grant thy wish?”

Hopefully, Shippou nodded.

“Then let it be so. I hear thy wish, and ye need only express thy want to those it concerns, and they shall do as their heart dictates.”

Shippou blushed, and looked away. Suddenly, the kitsune threw his arms around the miko’s neck, making her laugh. Jumping down, Shippou ran behind a large rock and his tears could be faintly heard by the others.

Inuyasha’s ears drooped slightly as Midoriko approached him last. “I deserve nothing. The only reason I went after the Jewel in the first place was to use it so I could become a full youkai.”

Midoriko smiled, “This is so. Ye began this journey with the intention of becoming a full-youkai, which would have rendered thee a creature of evil - lost to thy desires for murder and blood. However, thou fell in love with Kagome. More than that, thou chose thy love for Kagome over thy desire to become a full-youkai. It is the strength and purity of thy love for each other that has saved thee. Inuyasha, ye embody sakimi-tama, whose spirit presides over love. Please, allow me to see thy desires.”

Midoriko took the hanyou’s hands, staring into his eyes. After a moment, she smiled, “Inuyasha, thy wish is as beautiful as it is pure, and because of this, I shall leave it to thee to share with whomever thou sees fit to know it. I need not warn thee that such a wish could have dire consequences, for the very nature of thy desire tells me that ye already knows this. As ye desire, so shall it be.”

The determined, yet hopeful look on his face drew curious glances from the others.

Midoriko stepped back to address them all as a group. “There is something else, before I return thee.” A serious look appeared on the priestesses face. “When ye return, the Shikon no Tama will be divided among thee, and will no longer stand as a threat to the world. However, this does not mean that the world is safe. Other youkai will emerge now that Naraku has been defeated, and new threats may arise that are unforseen. As keepers and protectors of the Shikon no Tama, I ask thee to continue to protect the spirits in all things. I ask thee to remain together, for thy strength will remain in each other. Destroy evil whenever ye find it, and never again allow such great evil to rise.”

Midoriko searched each of them, “Kagome is the heart of the Shikon no Tama. Though the souls shall be divided among thee, she shall always remain its heart. I say this, because Kagome’s answer to my charge is already known to me. Wilt thou accept this mission? Continue to serve together?”

Inuyasha didn’t hesitate. He nodded quickly and stepped forward. Shippou immediately followed, fear shining in his eyes, but his jaw set in determination. Sango and Miroku glanced at one another, briefly, before nodding and moving forward to stand with Inuyasha and Shippou.

Midoriko smiled and turned to Kohaku. “What of thee? Thou art Sango’s family, and shall have a part in this mission, should ye so choose.”


Kohaku grinned widely, and joined the others.

Midoriko nodded. “So be it. The Shikon no Tama shall forever be safe. Remember that, together, thou art a chain and unable to be broken. Divided in spirit, thou risk great failure. I thank thee, and shall return thee with one last gift.”

The priestess allowed her eyes to meet each of theirs, “Each of thy souls is prepared to bear this burden. Use it wisely. Each of thee shall be blessed with life eternal, in order to carry out thy mission. Ye can still be slain, but ye will have the strength of youkai to sustain thy lives. Thou shalt be as gods to those who know thee, and myths to those who do not. Do any of ye wish to renounce such a responsibility?”

Inuyasha’s eyes never left the miko. Shippou looked at Kohaku and again, Sango and Miroku turned to each other. It took only a moment to decide.

Miroku spoke for everyone, “It seems that our destiny has chosen us, and we shall not fail to accept it.”

Midoriko nodded, as though she expected no less. “Thank thee, my friends. Farewell.” Turning, she began to fade back into the shadows.

“Wait!” Shippou stepped forward. “What will happen to you?”

Midoriko’s eyes brightened, “I am free. My soul has found peace, at last. Thou art all my salvation.”

Then she was gone. Before anyone could speak, the cave in which they stood grew dark, then a pink light surrounded them. Floating in a vast emptiness, Kagome suddenly appeared before them. Smiling, she reached out to them, and four pink orbs emerged from her hands. Each orb found it’s home in he or she who embodied its spirit. The five of them stood together with Kohaku, completing the Shikon no Tama in their unity. Then the light faded, darkness returned... and finally, each was standing around Kagome’s hospital bed, in exactly the same position they’d been in before finding themselves in Midoriko’s cave.

**************

Kagome sat outside under the Goshinboku with a blanket covering her lap. She’d finally been released from the hospital that morning, and she was delighted to just sit in the fresh air and watch Inuyasha as he played with Shippou, Kohaku and Souta. The hanyou was allowing them to chase him around, trying to catch him. Kagome giggled as Shippou leapt at him and missed, falling directly under Inuyasha’s feet. Inuyasha tripped, and Souta and Kohaku were upon him instantly.

Kagome had recognized Jinenji the moment she’d set eyes on him. The doctor had blushed with pleasure at her joyful recognition. When Inuyasha had asked her how she’d know it was him, Kagome had smiled. “I can see him. I see the human and the hanyou.” She’d spent the next few days plying Jinenji with questions in between sessions with the spiritual therapists the doctor had brought in to begin helping the girl handle her new energy. All too soon though, Jinenji had sadly informed them that his patient was well enough to go home. The friends had parted, with Jinenji’s enigmatic assurance that he would see them again, soon.

Coming to sit beside her on the grass, Inuyasha lifted Kagome onto his lap, hugging her close. “Welcome home,” he said as he kissed the top of her head, making her giggle.

Sango watched from nearby and smiled as her friend laughed. She couldn’t remember Inuyasha ever looking so relaxed, so... happy. Kagome too seemed happy, and Sango couldn’t blame her. ‘It’s funny,’ the taijiya thought to herself, ‘for three years those two fought to keep their feelings from one another. Now, they finally seem perfectly at ease, while Miroku and I....’ Sango sighed.

She’d noticed the change in the monk as soon as they’d returned from the cave. That night, after coming home from the hospital, Miroku had barely said goodnight to her before going to sleep in the living room. In the week since then, Sango had begun to fear that the idea of spending an eternity with her was something Miroku no longer found desirable. Looking across the way, Miroku had just stepped out of the shrine and was walking towards her. Rising to greet him, Sango searched his face, seeing a seriousness there that made her wonder, once more, what he was thinking.

Miroku’s smile did not reach his eyes, “Would you care to walk with me, Sango?” Walking beside her, he did not speak and seemed to be heading no particular direction. Reaching the well house, Miroku stopped, staring inside. “I have been pre-occupied. I see that I have worried you, Sango. I apologize.”

“Miroku... won’t you tell me what’s been bothering you?” Sango could see that he was deeply troubled.

Miroku sighed, “Our journey had ended, and yet... it has not. We have chosen to spend eternity fighting those who threaten our world. It is this, Sango, that has made me realize... that I cannot marry you.”

Sango’s felt something catch in her throat. Shaking her head, she struggled to deny his words.

Pain filled Miroku’s eyes, “Please, do not think that this is easy for me. I have spent many hours in quiet contemplation, and this is for the best. My curse is gone. My need to produce an heir is negated by the fact that I no longer need someone to avenge my family, but you...” at this, he looked away, “Midoriko promised you a large family, and a long life. You deserve such happiness. If we were to marry and have children, and something happened to take my life, our children would forever bear that burden. As would you.

“And what sort of life would it be? Trying to build a life together while fighting youkai for eternity? We would always worry about each other in battle.” He took her hands, “Please try to understand... you deserve someone who is capable of providing you with some semblance of normalcy. Someone who is able to provide for you at all... not some hentai monk who’s spent more nights sleeping beside a road than under a roof.”

Sango fought to hold back her tears, turning away from him, “You do not love me then.”

“In all my days, I have never loved anything else.”

“Then why don’t you let me have a say? Why do you get to make my decisions for me?” Sango whirled on him, anger in her eyes.

“Sango... I’m giving you a chance....”

“A chance to what? Be miserable? To work beside you every day, knowing that the man I truly love would rather give me up than have faith in me?”

Miroku looked hurt, “It is myself in whom I lack faith.”

Sango grabbed his hand, “Miroku... Midoriko promised me a life of happiness, as well as longevity and family. There is only one man I want. Only one whose children I have any desire to carry. Only one that I love. If I cannot have you, I’ll have none of it.”

A wariness entered Miroku’s eyes, “You truly love me, Sango? What about our future?”

Sango grew serious, “I’ve loved you from the first moment I met you, baka. My future lies nowhere but with you. We will have our eternity together. We will fight side by side each day, and our children will have each of our spirits. Remember, together we are strong... and shall never fail.”

Miroku took her hand, “She was talking about us as a group.”

Sango smiled, “It’s true for the two of us as well.”

Miroku looked away. For a moment, he watched Kagome and Inuyasha sitting together. They seemed beyond worry, as if they knew that somehow, everything would work out, as long as they had each other. ‘Could it really be as simple as that?’

Sighing, Miroku knew there was only one thing he could do. He had always been taught to follow the inspirations of his heart. Meeting Sango’s eyes, he winced to see the pain he had caused her. He only hoped that someday, she could forgive him. Grasping both of her hands in his, Miroku refused to meet her eyes.

“Sango?”


Sango held her breath.

“Would you bless me by allowing me to be your husband?”

Sango burst into tears, “Of course I will, you damn houshi.”

Miroku’s heart grew light again as he drew her into his arms, kissing her with a passion he’d held on to for so long. ‘Whatever the future brings us, I won’t care... as long as she’s beside me.’

*****************

Kagome sighed happily, as she watch Miroku and Sango kiss, surreptitiously.

Inuyasha grinned and shook his head. “Good. I was afraid that bouzu would blow it.”

Kagome looked at Inuyasha, frowning. “Inuyasha... how come you’ve never told me what you wished for? Everyone else told me except you. ‘Fess up, what was it?” She was surprised when he grew serious.

Climbing out of his lap, she knelt facing him, “Tell me.”

Finally, Inuyasha met her eyes, “I wished for you.”

Kagome looked puzzled, “You already have me, silly.”

Inuyasha shook his head, “No, I mean.... I wished that I could be the kind of man you deserve. Someone who will make you happy and be worthy of having your love.” His ears fell, “I don’t ever want you to regret being with me. I don’t ever want to hurt you or to make you wonder if you should have chosen differently. I wished to be the one you deserve, or if I couldn’t, that I’d know you didn’t want me.”

Kagome laughed, “That’s the stupidest thing I’ve ever heard, Inuyasha!”

Inuyasha stared back at her, expressionless. “Stupid?” Getting up, he headed for the well.

Kagome realized her mistake and jumped up to follow him, “Inuyasha!”

The hanyou turned, a sorrowful determination in his eyes. “I got what I asked for, right? I wished that I’d know if I wasn’t what you deserved. Well, stupid sounds clear enough to me.” Inuyasha pushed pass a startled Miroku and Sango, entering the well house.

“Inuyasha, Osuwari!” Kagome managed to prevent him from leaping into the well, but it was close. Storming up to him, she looked like she wanted to hit him. Instead, she threw her arms around him, kissing him until he kissed her back.

Pulling away, she saw the confusion in his eyes. Smiling, she touched his face, “What I meant was... you are the man I deserve. You make me happy, and every day I’ve known you, I’ve loved you more. I’ve never doubted that you’re the one for me... and I never will either.” She reached for his hands as his features softened. “Don’t you get it, Inuyasha? The whole reason I was able to do what I did with Naraku’s heart... was because I finally knew that you love me. Not because I remind you of Kikyou, but because I’m me. You gave me the strength to fight for something more important to me than the world. You gave me you.”

Inuyasha held her tightly, crushing her lips against his. His heart was pounding as he suddenly realized... they had an audience.

Looking up, both Inuyasha and Kagome turned red as they met the eyes of Sango and Miroku.

For once, Miroku didn’t crack a joke at the hanyou’s expense. Taking Sango’s hand, he smiled broadly, “Looks like we all have something to celebrate. What does one do in this era on such an occasion?”

Kagome grinned, “I know just the thing.”

******************

Inuyasha frowned as he stared at the statue of an odd looking mouse wearing clothes and a hat. “Are you sure this is a good idea?”

Kagome grinned, “Yep, it’s perfect! I wanted to take you guys somewhere that would show you something unique from my time, and DisneySea is just the place. We used to go to Tokyo Disneyland all the time before my dad died, and I haven’t been to this new park yet, but Souta has. That’s why I asked him to plan our schedule for today.”

Souta was excited, “This is gonna be great, trust me. The old park’s good, but this new one has rides that are even more like roller-coasters!”

Inuyasha raised an eyebrow, remembering Kagome comparing him to one, “Roller-coasters, huh?”

Sango frowned, “What exactly is a roller-coaster?”

Souta tried to explain, “It’s a ride... um, a structure built on a track, like the train we rode here, only it has hills and curves and stuff to make it exciting. The cool thing about this park is that each section is designed to look like a seafront in seven different parts of the world.” Suddenly embarrassed, he explained, “When I was a kid, I wanted to be an explorer. The detail here is so awesome that it really feels like you’re there. I thought you might like to see what the world is like in the future.”

Shippou was still gaping at the mouse statue, “So... what’s the mouse for?”

Kagome explained, “The company who builds these parks is called Disney. The guy who started it began his career by drawing cartoons, like Ranma ½, only these ones were about a mouse named ‘Mickey.’ Almost everyone in the world knows about Mickey Mouse. There are theme parks like this one in different places around the world.”

Finally, they were at the entrance. Souta handed the attendant seven tickets, then led the way through the turn-style. Kagome made sure they all got through the unfamiliar device before following last.

Everyone stared at the sight before them. Designed to look like a Mediterranean harbor, the park opened onto a street lined with large, Italian buildings, that were as impressive as they were realistic. In the center of the plaza, an enormous fountain stood, with a spout of water in the center that appeared to be keeping afloat a representation of the globe... the world as the visitors to this time had never before imagined it.

Miroku stared at the globe in wonder, beginning to circle to fountain to explore it from all viewpoints. “This is truly marvelous.”

Souta grinned, “Just wait!”

They group continued their walk, entering a tunnel under a bridge supporting more buildings. Beyond was a replica of the Italian canals. Kagome explained the significance of each thing they saw as they walked, “In the country called Italy, there are places where you ride in little boats like the ones over there, instead of walking down the streets.”

“It’s beautiful!” Sango breathed, looking amazed. “No one lives in these buildings? They’re so large!”

“Nope, they use the space for shops and a hotel... a big inn.” Souta supplied.

Continuing on, the group began to explore the park, with Souta pointing out all the important information as they went along. They wandered through the Fortresses of Exploration, where Sango became entranced with a replica of an old-fashioned flying machine, and Miroku stared wide-eyed at what Kagome explained was a model of the solar system, telling his it’s significance.

While walking through an area decorated with an Arabian theme, complete with minarets, Shippou suddenly squeaked and ran to hide behind Kagome’s leg, causing her to look around to see what had caused such a reaction. Inuyasha tensed, reaching for the hip where Tetsusaiga usually rested.

“He’s not real... is he?” Shippou asked as he peered out from behind Kagome.

Kagome suddenly realized what the kitsune was talking about. Not far from where they were standing stood Mickey Mouse... or at least, someone wearing a Mickey Mouse costume. Kagome put her hand on Inuyasha’s arm to let him know there was no danger before bending to pick Shippou up. Explaining what he was seeing, Kagome tried to discern exactly what emotion covered the boy’s face. It seemed to be a mixture of fear... and awe.

“Shippou, would you like to meet him?” Kagome asked delicately.

Shippou’s eyes got even wider. Staring at the large mouse, he nodded ever so slightly. Smiling wider, Kagome joined the small line that had formed in front of the character, followed by her friends. When it was their turn, Kagome introduced the two, remembering when her own mother had done the same with her.

Shippou reached up and touched Mickey’s nose. The character mouse patted Shippou’s head, then put his gloved hands to his face, as if exclaiming over how cute the ‘little boy’ was. The kitsune understood, and blushed. Looking at Inuyasha, who for some reason refused to leave their side, Kagome saw that he seemed amused at Shippou’s reaction, and was smiling slightly.

“Guys! Look over here!” Souta waved to Kagome, holding up the camera he’d brought. Lifting Shippou into her arms, Kagome moved to one side of the mouse, who put his arm around her... and around Inuyasha on the other side. As the flash signaled the film’s exposure, Inuyasha scowled at the contact.

As Kagome thanked Mickey and rejoined the others, a woman smiled at Kagome, nodding at Shippou in her arms, “You’re son is adorable! What is his name?”

Kagome almost corrected the woman, when something stopped her. Looking down at Shippou, his eyes were glowing as he watched the mouse pose for another photo. “His name is Shippou.” Thanking the woman for the complement, Kagome continued walking with the others, ignoring the knowing look Inuyasha was giving her.

Finally, in an area that Souta explained was supposed to be the jungles of South America, the gang prepared to experience their first roller-coaster. Kohaku’s eyes grew large as they approached a structure made of stone that reached into the sky.

“That’s an Aztec Temple. This is the Indiana Jones ride.” Souta explained. Noticing that everyone but Kagome looked confused, the boy launched into an animated explanation of the adventure series as they crossed a rope bridge to queue up for the ride.

Inuyasha snorted, “This ‘Jones’ guy sounds like a wimp, being afraid of snakes.”

Souta looked horrified, “No way, Indiana Jones is awesome! He’s almost as cool as you, Inuyasha!”

Inuyasha blushed at the indirect compliment as Souta began describing everything they saw in line for the ride.

The line itself was part of this attraction, setting the mood for what lay ahead. Kagome watched her friends with interest as they took in the atmosphere and Souta’s running commentary. As the boy ecstatically described the story of the fountain of youth - the focal point of the ride - each of them focused on their surroundings. The authentic feel of an archeological camp site, the realistically faded murals, the stone faces carved on the walls, all of these things made it hard to believe that this was something built just to entertain people.

Passing over another bridge, Sango looked down into the pit below... and saw human skeletons. She gasped before remembering that they couldn’t be real. Inuyasha’s amused grin at her expense further emphasized that these were phony. Leaning in to talk to Kagome, Sango whispered, “Why would someone go to so much trouble for something so frivolous?”

Kagome smiled back at her friend, “You come from a time where war has ravaged the countryside. In our time, extravagance is second nature. People think they have stressful jobs, although sitting at a desk all day sounds a lot easier than working in a field from dawn to dusk like the people in your time. Anyway, people want to have fun. Theme parks like this are a great for that. Plus, it brings in money to our government when people come to visit from other countries.”

Sango marveled, “To think that there’s actually a time when people would travel thousands of miles... just for fun.”

“Nowadays, it’s easier to do that. People can fly in crafts that hold hundreds of people, and go all over the world, every day.” Kagome grinned as her friend just shook her head in amazement.

The line continued through other rooms, each just as scenic as the last. In one room, a movie reel played and a guide announced the ride’s safety instructions.

“Is this dangerous?” Miroku asked Souta.

“Nah, just follow the rules and you won’t get hurt. The ride jerks around a lot but it’s on a track, so it’s safe. Look there,” pointing below them, Souta showed them the tracks that guided the ride’s cars.

Before long, the group entered a jeep. Strapping themselves in as they had been shown in the movie reel, the visitors looked slightly nervous.

Kagome smiled reassuringly, “Just remember, it’s perfectly safe and it’s all fake, so just have fun, okay?”

Inuyasha grunted, “Keh,” so far, he wasn’t impressed with these roller-coaster things.

The ride started, taking the jeep through a set of carved stone doors, into a chamber which held a glowing crystal skull. Miroku watched as beams of light issued from the skulls eyes, and the jeep sped up in response, avoiding it. Turning left, lightening climbed the walls of the cavern as ahead of them, a man who didn’t seem to be quite real, presumably this ‘Indiana Jones’ character, chastised them as they sped past him, into the next chamber.

Behind a larger crystal skull, a whirling vortex of blue wind swirled, reminding Inuyasha of Kouga. Startled, the hanyou reached again for his sword as the mysterious wind approached, threateningly.

Sango yelped a little, grabbing Miroku’s arm as they sped into a room that appeared to be crawling with bugs. They looked so real, she could hardly convince herself that this was all an illusion.

The jeep flung through rooms at high speed, slowing down briefly at times before again shooting them forward, throwing the passengers against each other as they gasped for breath. Darts seemed to just miss them, bursts of air exploded in their faces, and just when they were seconds away from being crushed by an enormous boulder, the vehicle carried them under it to safety.

As the car returned to the loading station, Kagome looked around at her friends. Miroku and Sango looked slightly pale, while Kohaku and Shippou were staring wide eyed at Souta, who grinned back. Turning to look at Inuyasha, who sat beside her, she couldn’t interpret the expression on his face.

Meeting her eyes, his eyes suddenly sparkled, “Again!” He shouted, leaping from the vehicle to the enthusiastic cheers of the three youngsters. Kagome just laughed as Miroku and Sango looked as though they would faint, but agreed that it had been fun.

After a second ride, Inuyasha wanted a third, but reconsidered when Souta reminded them that there were other attractions they could go on. Making their way through the park, Inuyasha insisted they ride everything, and they did the best they could.

They rode a flight simulator that imitated a water crash, making Sango insist she’d wait at least four hundred years before she actually rode a real airplane. The highlight of the day was on Mysterious Island, modeled after the novels of Jules Verne. All of them loved these rides and the retro-futuristic construction of the island, set in the very center of a volcano that spouted real steam, made them feel as though they were in another world.

Stopping in the gift shop so Kagome could buy a tin of cookies for her mother, she was surprised when Inuyasha approached the counter with a couple of books, ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea’ and ‘Journey to the Center of the Earth;’ The two books that were the theme for this section of the park. She stared at him in amazement, making him blush.

“I can read,” he growled, making her nod innocently as she paid for her purchases. As a final thought, Kagome added a stuffed Mickey Mouse doll to the pile, hiding it in the bag for later.

As the group prepared to leave the park after a long day, Sango stared wistfully at the little boats being steered along the canal in the Mediterranean Harbor. Catching the look, Kagome suggested they take a ride before leaving.

Although each gondola sat sixteen people, the line was short so the group managed to get one all to themselves. Souta, Shippou and Kohaku sat up front, pointing excitedly at the scenes as they drifted past. Sango and Miroku sat in the middle and in the rear, Kagome and Inuyasha watched the sun go down and hundreds of lights come on along the surrounding streets.

Miroku smiled when Sango rested her head on his shoulder. Wrapping his arm around her, he held her close as the gondolier pushed them along with a long pole. “The future is a wonderful place,” He murmured to her.

Sango nodded. Everything that she’d seen, each new experience, all of it had served to remind her that they would live to see it again. She and those she loved would watch as the world grew up around them. They would enjoy each change, knowing that beautiful moments, like the one she was experiencing now, were the foundation for the future. “Miroku?” she whispered, turning her head to look up at him, “Will you marry me soon?”

Miroku looked serious as he nodded, “As soon as we can possibly arrange it, Sango my love.”

Kagome smiled, watching as Miroku gave Sango a soft kiss while the two of them watched the lights reflect off of the water. Looking at Inuyasha, she noticed he was frowning slightly as he also watched their two friends.

Nudging him, Kagome teased, “You’re face will stick like that if you do it too often.”

Shaken from his thoughts, Inuyasha smiled slightly, “Just thinking.” Before Kagome could question him further, the boat docked, allowing them to disembark and head for home. Distracted by the details of making sure they all boarded the right train and stayed together, Kagome forgot Inuyasha’s moment of reverie.

*******************

Kagome entered Souta’s room to tuck Shippou into his sleeping bag. He and Kohaku and been sharing the room with her brother, much to the annoyance of Ji-Chan, whose bedroom was right next door. Every morning at breakfast, the old man complained that the three boys had kept him up all night with their talking. Knowing that the kitsune probably wouldn’t go to sleep for hours yet, she still liked to go through the routine of making sure he was bedded down for the night.

Souta was in the bathroom brushing his teeth and Kohaku was talking with his sister about desire to learn ‘mechanics,’ as Souta had called it, inspired by the days adventure to DisneySea. Shippou sat alone in the bedroom, and the smile that covered his face when Kagome came in made her glad she’d made the effort.

Kneeling on the floor, she pulled the sleeping bag up to his chin and smiled at him.

“Kagome?” Shippou asked through a yawn, “Can we go again tomorrow?”

Kagome shook her head, “Not this time. We’ve got to be getting home soon. Kaede’s probably worried about me.”

“Tomorrow?”

“Maybe the day after. I want to do some final shopping before we go.” Kagome reached behind her back and brought out the Mickey Mouse doll she had bought earlier. “I got this for you... I thought you might like to sleep with it.”

Shippou sat up and clutched the toy to his chest, “Oh!” He exclaimed happily.

“What do you say, runt?” Inuyasha stood in the doorway, but moved to kneel beside Kagome as he spoke.

Shippou nodded seriously, “Thank-you Kagome.” Suddenly blushing, Shippou stared down at his toy, speaking hesitantly, “Kagome... will you be my mama?”

Kagome was surprised, “Well... I’m already a lot like a mother to you, aren’t I?”

Shippou nodded fiercely, still not looking her in the face, “I mean... now that Naraku’s gone, it’s just that... you’re the only family I have. I was hoping you’d take care of me... be my mother.” His blush darkened, “It’s what I asked Midoriko for.” he finished quietly.

Inuyasha watched as silent tears pooled in Kagome’s eyes. Smiling, she swept the kitsune into her arms, nuzzling her face against his head.

“Of course, Shippou. I couldn’t give you up if I tried.”

Turning to Inuyasha, Shippou looked even more embarrassed, “And, Inuyasha? Will you be my dad?”

Inuyasha stared for a moment, shocked. Finally, he grunted, “Keh,” and mussed the boy’s hair.

Grinning widely, Shippou launched himself at Inuyasha, hugging him quickly before crawling back under his covers.

Quietly, Kagome and Inuyasha said goodnight and left the room. Expecting him to lead her upstairs to her room, Kagome wondered what he was up too when instead, he headed for the front door. The two walked in silence for a while, before approaching the Goshinboku. Grabbing Kagome, Inuyasha leapt upward, settling them comfortably on his favorite branch.

With a small smile, Inuyasha shook his head, “I’d wondered what he’d wished. I had no idea....”

Kagome nodded, “I guess I forgot that he hadn’t told me. I asked, but he’s getting better and better at changing the subject.”

Inuyasha frowned, “You, I understand. The kid adores you, but me.... What kind of father could I ever be? Mine died the night I was born.”

Kagome reached up to rub his ears, “You’ll be a wonderful father,” she assured him quietly.

Meeting her eyes, Inuyasha seemed in awe, “You want that? Pups? With me?”

“No one else.” Kagome snuggled against him.

Inuyasha turned serious again, “Kagome... do you want what Sango and Miroku are having? A wedding thing?”

Kagome sat up again, searching his face, “Is that what you want?”

He shrugged, “All I care is that you’re mine. Humans marry though. Watching them tonight, it made me think. Maybe you’d want that too.”

Kagome looked thoughtful, “Mama would probably be happier if we did get married officially, and if we continue to come back to this time, it would probably make things easier.” Turning to him, she smiled. “Let’s do it. I want to make sure you’re mine completely, in this world and the other.”

Kissing her fiercely, he mumbled against her lips, “Then... will you marry me, Kagome?”

“Of course,” she sighed, pulling him closer.

As his head started to spin and he began to worry about falling out of the tree, he pulled away, making them both groan.

“Talk to you mom... tell her soon,” he growled.

******************************************************************************

A/N: Almost all of the characters in this story are brought to you by the genius of Rumiko Takahashi and the letters I, R, and A. I do not own the characters, they own me.

I also do not own any part of the Disney corporation... if I did, I’d be damn rich.

I’m really anxious about this chapter.... It was suggested to me that I put the DisneySea trip in a separate chapter, however one of my devoted fans vikki, asked me not to break up the long chapters! This one was 16 pages, and you got it all. I hope it’s not too weird. Also, I know the DisneySea thing is way corny, but I needed them to go someplace and it’s right there in Tokyo... where else would you go! I’ve never seen it done either! Okay, I’m done whining... I hate it when authors do that!

Special thanks to the following websites for providing me with a tour of DisneySea... an AWSOME park that I’ve never been to, but will have to go to now: http://www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp/tdl/index_e.html & http://www.mouseplanet.com/tokyo/

Okay, here’s the final word on the sequel thing. I didn’t get many responses about it, but I’ve decided to do one anyway... this is your last chance to scream ‘NOOOOO’ run for the hills. I know everyone appreciates the quick updates, and I’m able to do that because I waited until I’d finished chapter twelve before starting to post. I’m almost done writing ‘Beautiful Souls’... only a few more chapters. After that, I’ll start the sequel, and also do some one-shots that will bridge the gap between the two stories. The way I intend to do this, is to post one new one-shot per week until I’m satisfied with the sequel and start posting that. Questions? Comments?

From here on out, you can start looking for hints towards the sequel. There were some in the last chapter too.

Review Replies:
Stuey - Odd in a bad way or odd in a good way? I hope it wasn’t too weird.... This chapter is a little awkward too. What was odd about it? Maybe I can fix something! Angst is... hmmmm. How do you explain angst. The dictionary definition is “A feeling of anxiety or apprehension often accompanied by depression.” (www.dictionary.reference.com) For example... we all want Inuyasha to kiss Kagome, but before they kiss, something happens, making the reader (or watcher) scream and throw things in frustration. That’s angst. Teenagers have a lot of it. A basic plot cannot exist without conflict, so angst is necessary to a story. Cannon refers to the ‘Inuyasha Bible’. The manga is the primary cannon, followed by the anime, then by the movies. Most people follow the manga (like me... for the most part) and others follow the anime. Some do not consider the movies to be cannon because they weren’t written by Takahashi-sama. I do, depending on my personal author needs. For example... if you are a person who does NOT consider the movies to be cannon, then Inuyasha and Kagome have never kissed. If you only consider the manga to be cannon, Kouga’s friends Ginta and Hakkaku don’t actually have names, and Ayame doesn’t even exist! Does that all make sense? Thanks again for asking! If you’re wondering, there are at least five other readers who are too, and aren’t asking!

PJ - Hooray for Inuyasha’s sexy ears! I’ve read other fanfics where Inuyasha freaks at a hospital, so since I used a hospital in mine, I thought it would be fun to have him struggle to stay in control (mwaa-ha-ha... dance, puppets, dance!) I’ve only seen one other fanfic with Jinenji in it, and this is where I started thinking about a sequel so I really wanted the doctor to be youkai. Then I thought of using someone we already know, and it just came to me. You’re right... he’s perfect for it! He’s changed a lot from the anime, but I figure that after 500 years, he wouldn’t be so afraid. As far as Kouga goes... um, I actually haven’t written the conclusion to that little scenario... yet. It’ll probably be in chapter nineteen, and I have a one-shot in mind for him, since he’s playing a bigger part in the sequel.

Anon - Thank you so much for the compliments! I really appreciate it... you’re making me all teary! I’m so glad you’re enjoying it, and I hope this chapter is okay and that I updated soon enough!

Vikki - I’m totally with you on the hanyou thing. He’s so sexy that way! Plus, that’s who Kagome fell in love with. I’m preaching to the choir here, but you know what I mean. Of course I wouldn’t kill Kagome! I hope you liked the explanation for where they went. I’m excited about it. As for Sesshoumaru... yep! He’s in it! Not a ton, but he makes a few appearances and he’ll definitely be in the sequel as well. He’s actually coming up again in two more chapters I think, and he’s in the chapter I’m writing now. He’s such a fun character to write for because no emotion hardly ever shows on his face... he’s a very internal character and it’s fun to peek inside his head. Good stuff! Congratulations on your play! Mine is chugging along, and it’s going to be great. The cast is wonderful and I’m having so much fun playing. The director is out having surgery next week so I get to be in charge for a little while. Next week is going to be busy! I definitely don’t think less of 12th graders... or any graders for that matter. I was one once! HS theatre was so much fun! What are you doing after? Any schools in mind? UCSF has an incredible theatre dept. (so I’m learning... that’s where my show is.... Most of the actors in my show are 18. The oldest is maybe 27). Thanks for being there! I look forward to your thoughts! Love you too (also in a non-sexual way).

Two last thoughts and then I’m done... no really, I swear!

1) The next chapter will be posted on Saturday sometime... stay tuned!

2) I inserted some hidden references to a classic movie in this chapter... did anyone catch it? Special kudos to whoever did!

HA! THAT’S IT!!!