It was entirely uncalled for when Kagome found herself at another party, surrounded by Japan and his... friends.

"Souta!" Kagome hissed, glaring at him through her bangs. "You said only Kiku and Heracles would be here!"

"Honda-san told me it would only be the two of them..." Souta murmured, his wide blue eyes taking in the chaos or falling Christmas décor along with several New Year's decorations.

"Souta! Lil' Bro! Come over here and take a picture with Big Brother Al!"

"Wait, Jones-san-!" Souta disappeared into the crowd, and Kagome was left standing, staring at the empty space beside her.

"Mon amie!" It was Francis, sauntering up to her with a wide smile and a rose in hand. "Let us bring the New Year in with some vigorous love making!"

"You stupid frog! Don't accost the poor lass with your horrible manners!"

Kagome took the ensuing distraction as a sign for her to get away.

.

.

.

She found Kiku outside, looking at the sky and glancing at his watch every few seconds.

"Kiku-chan." She smiled as he jumped, looking to her with wide eyes. "Happy New Years."

"Happy New Years, Kagome."

They stood in companionable silence, listening to their group of rowdy friends counting down the New Years.

"5..."

"Kiku?"

"...4..."

"Hm?"

"...3..."

"Thank you for everything."

"...2..."

"Of course."

"...1...!"

"HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

While the rest of Japan's assembled friends cheered inside, laughing at an enraged Iggy who was kissed and groped by a very drunk France, two figures stood outside.

"Goodbye, Kiku."

And Kagome disappeared, leaving her Country the memory of her kiss.

"...Kagome...sama...?"

A tear slid down his cheek.