Hi everyone this is kinda a continuance of Loving, Saying, and Being as one. It's like three months or so after there they got married. This fanfic begged to be written it's a song fic but it's kinda scary. Those who are survivors it may be triggering. I dedicate this to all of us out there who never had a hero but needed one. The song at the end will be "I'll stand by you" by the Pretenders.
Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha or the song I'm just borrowing um.
~~~Protection~~~
It was another just another day in the Warring States Era. The sun was casting colors across the open expanse of the sky at sunset. If one looked closely high in a tree above most others, they'd see a couple resting on a branch watching the solar journey's end for the day.
Kagome wore Inuyasha's red outer shirt over her short skirt and shirtsleeve shirt as she rested against him. He held her gently around her arms and chest as she lay across his chest with her eyes closed and her head on his shoulder. Her sock-covered feet hung off the branch loosely as Inuyasha cradled her form. He rested against the thick trunk looking out over the land and sky watching the colors dance across the flooded rice patty fields. The two of them spent at least 3 evenings a week in a tree just as they are now to watch the sunset and feel connected in the quiet of the day. Inuyasha preferred only her company when he could manage it, but tolerated his friends most of the time also which he didn't mind putting up with really.
But there they were now for the second night in a row, Kagome asleep in his arms and him, he remembered all over again how this woman became his mate and wife. He considered mate first and foremost it was all encompassing more so than just a wife. After they had gone thru the mating ceremony they had become one in two bodies. The peace of her sleeping filled Inuyasha's soul as her rested feelings trickled down thru there mated soul link. He drank it in like the finest wines as he did everyday now when she slipped into slumber in his arms.
The last few months had brought drastic changes to their small group mainly between the two of them. They bickered some still but nothing was ever said that would hurt the other. Shippo had fallen right into a family with them and loved the way Inuyasha started treating him the night after they had become mates. The arguing between the two hadn't stopped but had taken a turn for a more respectful tone where Shippo was concerned and more patients on Inuyasha's end. But the two still bumped heads an awful lot and for the most part Kagome just assumed to stay out of it. The halfhearted arguments and the lack of 'sits' made the group a tad more boring but Miroku did keep it lively with his constant hentai behavior. But as soon as Kagome and the hanyou had mated Miroku was all hands off of the miko. He knew better than that, friend or not, you don't screw with a demon's mate any idiot, which he was, knew that.
The next night after a day of shard hunting, the group had decided to stop near a small village where they could get supplies in the morning. They had stopped in the late afternoon wanting to rest up a bit. The shard hunting crew needed wood for a fire to cook on and warm up by that night.
"All right, since you all seem like you are about to fall over, I'm gonna go get some wood for tonight. You'd think we hadn't rested in a week or something!" Inuyasha announced foreseeing the need. Kagome was sitting down resting her soar feet.
"Hey Inu-chan before you run off, I'm gonna walk into the village and see if they have a bath I could use." Inuyasha stopped before he leapt off into the woods, and went over to his mate.
"Don't go alone have Sango go with you." He looked over at the demon slayer who nodded. Inuyasha kissed her forehead. "Be careful," he told her with a hand on her cheek. He then bounded out into the forest. Kagome smiled to herself. Even though he was already out of sight she felt him near her like always. Even though he as not by her side physically he always left half of himself behind when they were apart. The miko rubbed her cheek where Inuyasha's hand had been and then turned to her friend.
"Come on Sango, I need a bath!" Kagome turned to pick up her pack and started toward the nearby village. Sango brought along a change of clothes, towel, and a bar of soap for if they actually did find something. It only took them 10 minutes to wander into what they figured was the village center. The place was large enough to be called a town actually for they did have two Inns and a placemen went to drink. Kagome decided to try the Inn on the right to see if they had bathing facilities, Sango opted for the one on the left which was closer.
They each headed toward the chosen inns. Sango entered the one and disappeared from view thru the door. Kagome began walking over to the other, which was across the square they had to pass a rowdy looking bunch of men who had just come out of the tavern. There were 10 of them 4 out weighting her by double at least. Kagome looked over her shoulder at where Sango had gone and then proceeded to walk around the group toward the Inn door. Kagome walked slowly afraid to go to fast and attract attention to herself. An odd feeling of foreboding began to make her feel like they needed to leave. Kagome stopped short.
She decided it would be prudent to turn around and run to the other Inn where Sango had entered but as she turned around a large arm wrapped around her waist and the other around her mouth. She tried to scream but it was muffled into the large hand. The fear she felt was intense. She knew what they wanted and one thought shot thru her heart mind and soul, "INUYASHA!" The man that had her took her toward the other inn that had been her destination in the first place. Only instead of going in he moved down an alley between to buildings where only the moon lit the small passageway. She began to cry as she felt him shove her down to the ground. She took the opportunity to scream but the moment she opened her mouth she was slapped hard across the face sending pain shooting thru her head. She put her hand up to her face and realized he had struck her so hard he had made her bleed across her cheekbone. She heard him come nearer and stand over her.
"If you try to scream again, you will not have any teeth left next time," a deep male voice said. He then kneeled and motioned his friends over to help him. Two more men knelt on either side of her grabbing her wrists and holding her to the ground. The one in front of her ran his hand up the side of her leg toward the hem of her skirt. She started to struggle and got tighter, bruising grips on her wrists and another smack across her already sore right cheek. She cried out sharply at the pain that threatened to make her pass out. Her head throbbed, her arms hurt, and she felt vaguely rough hands moving up her sides pushing up her top. All she could do was cry and retreat into her self. The feeling of the men around her became far removed from her mind as she moved the warmth of the connection that Inuyasha and her shared. She could also feel a mounting fury that was not her own. The miko knew that anger would fuel his transformation into a full demon. But in all her pain and terror she called out to that welcoming his wrath upon her assailants. They were about to steal the most precious gift she had shared with another. She couldn't fight her way out or cry out for help but she knew he was coming. She could feel him come nearer as their link became more prominent. The pain and the shock made consciousness hard to cling to but she knew if she could hang on it would be easier for her mate to feel their bond if she remained focused on him. She felt waves of love and worry flow thru the thread that bound their hearts and souls. She could suddenly feel him moving fast thru the town almost on top of where the men held her. She heard one of the men above her say "Wait a minute, She's got one of those demon threads!" The man on her right was referring to her silver necklace made of her mate's hair. They took the time then to look into her blank stare to see the golden flakes that showed in the light brown color of her iris.
"She's a demon's bitch!" the larger man on her left yelled.
"Oh shit," said the third who had been paying her the unwanted attentions. Before they could move they heard the unearthly howl of a demon at the end of the alley. There stood a demon with red eyes and violet pupils and streaks across his dog like face. The battered woman on the ground called to him in a whisper...
"Inuyasha...."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
While Inuyasha had been wood the complete opposite way that Kagome had gone. He found himself rethinking his decision to let her go even with Sango. He knew she could probably take care of herself but these times were so much more dangerous than hers were. And he had had a bad feeling for the past few minutes. He guessed she would be at the village by now as he was picking up dried branches for the fire.
He felt an unease slip into his consciousness thru his link with Kagome. He then felt it start to heighten as a minute passed. Her determination set into motion a decision that made her feel better slightly. He had barely started to relax when he felt her fear hit him like some one had punched him hard enough to take his breath away. He had dropped everything and started to run.
As he ran toward the village he could feel her fear increase and he could taste her tears. His insides felt as though they were being torn apart by her terror. He pushed himself to the limits his body would go to get to her. The drive to save and protect her took over all of his thinking and actions. He felt nothing save what she did.
When she was struck, and her pain filtered thru the bond, he was consumed by hatred and fear for his mate. His demon blood began to override his human side. The overwhelming need to protect HIS mate was an instinct deep than his human compassion for any bystanders or his reverence for life of others. His eyes started to take on a reddish hue and his demon instincts to protect took over.
As he came to the edge of the town he felt her pain intensify and could smell her blood on the wind. She had been struck again he knew. This knowledge drew him deeper into his demon blood. His eyes were turning and streaks across his face were beginning to form. As he crossed the square he heard a man from the direction of where he could feel Kagome and smell her blood, say something about demon threads and he knew she was there. He stopped at the opening of the dead end alleyway between the two buildings. He then heard another man label her a bitch, which she in essence was with his being a dog demon. And a man sitting between two small legs curse. He mind had gone minutes ago and his conscience with it. The strained whisper of his mate sent him into a battle rage running toward the three men.
They didn't have a chance. They quickly got to their feet and ran to the dead end not 5 feet from where they were, leaving Kagome lying on the ground. He was full demon now fueled by Kagome's pain and terror and the smell of her blood. The men huddled into a corner together knowing it was the end.
"YOU DARE TOUCH HER!!! SHE IS MINE AND NOW YOU DIE!!! IRON REVER SOUL STEALER!!!" His claws come down over the men and they were sliced into pieces. Their body parts fell into a bloody pile in the corner of the alley. Inuyasha's chest heaved with exertion from running and then accosting her attackers. A sudden cry of pain and wave of relief made him turn to lay eyes on Kagome still lying where the men had left her. He stood there momentarily as his demon side faded away. She had seen everything and he was afraid of what she would do once she had time to think on what happened. But at this moment in time she needed him and he pushed everything aside and ran to her.
Deep amber eyes met her light brown and gold speckled gaze as he kneeled beside her.
"Kagome, love," he couldn't ask if she was ok or what happened for he knew the answer to both. She was on the verge of flying apart at the seems and collapsing in on herself all at once.
"Inuyasha," came her pained cry as she reached for him. He quickly picked her up into his arms and tucked her against his body firmly.
"Kagome, where's Sango?" he asked softly making sure there wasn't another female he needed to rescue before he bolted. Just then she appeared in the opening of the alley Inuyasha was headed towards.
"What..." Inuyasha didn't give her a chance to finish.
"Are you ok?" he asked in a gruff voice. Sango just nodded. "Get Kagome's bag and get back to camp now!" He barked the order but it was necessary no time for talking or explaining. The demon exterminator caught sight of the gruesome pile in the corner but didn't flinch. She assumed that is what was left of Kagome's attackers and did as she was told. Inuyasha turned and left. He was followed 3 paces back by Sango. Kagome finally gave up the last of her energy into leaning into her mate and let the blackness consume her. The pain faded away and only the warmth of Inuyasha's protective loving spirit wrapped around her soul was left. She let herself relax into the golden glow that resembled the color of his eyes. It was here that she slept as Inuyasha carried her back to their camp.
Inuyasha felt her fall into a deep slumber covered in their connection. He let out a sigh as he walked. He looked down at her. "God's Kagome, what did those bastards do to you...." Upon entering the small passageway where he had found Kagome, he had smelled the men's excitement from what they were about to do. He now needed to look her over and see the full extent of the damage. He also knew a small stream ran near their campsite. He didn't want her waking up in the same clothes or condition she passed out in. He looked back at Sango. "Those men back there tired to...." he couldn't get the word out. "I need to bath her before she wakes, and I need your help."
"Ok is there somewhere we can do this?" He nodded and headed to the right. It didn't take but another two minutes to reach the stream where he intended to clean his mate. He knew Sango could probably hold her for a second so he turned to her.
"Can you hold her?" Inuyasha asked. Sango stepped forward taking Kagome into her arms. The girl was lighter than she thought she was going to be. "Turn please," he asked in a low voice. Sango did as he asked and he stripped then wrapped a towel around him. "Ok," he said the Sango and she turned to face him. He took kagome into his arms again. He noticed that she had begun to stir in Sango's arms but once back in his she quieted, slipping back into the golden warmth. He had felt her fear slightly when he had handed her off, which is why he completed this task so quickly. "I need you help to undress her."
"Ok, you hold her and ill get the stuff of." Inuyasha nodded. He kneeled to where he could more easily maneuver her to allow her friend access.
Finally with her cloths set in a pile on the shore Inuyasha eased him and her bodies into the cool water. It was slightly cool but not enough to shock one's body. He lowered her into the water that was waist deep for him and began to rinse her hair and pale form. Sango threw him a bar of soap, which he caught deftly in his claws making sure it didn't fly out of his grasp. He washed her carefully looking over her body in the late afternoon sun. As he washed the scent of the men off her he found her only real injuries were to her face and wrists, which he attended to gently. When he washed the blood from her face a small cry of pain nearly made his heart break. But he steeled his resolve and cleaned her thoroughly. He then threw the soap back to Sango. She didn't even attempt to catch knowing it would fall thru her hands. She threw him a bottle of Shampoo the miko was always using to wash her hair with. She decided not to bother with the conditioner since it didn't seem necessary at the moment. She would be clean and that was all Inuyasha wanted to do right now.
He proceeded to wash her hair, rinse it and then stand up in the water bringing Kagome with him tucked against his chest. He moved out of the water and walked to Sango who was waiting with a towel for Kagome. He allowed the demon slayer top wrap the cloth around his mate and then deposited the girl back into Sango's arms to get dressed. Her sleep became disquieted again as he rushed to dry himself and put on his clothes. Sango got a good look at her friend as she helped Inuyasha put her clothes back on after she had given the miko back to him. Her wrists were showing signs of deep bruising that could use wrapping, and the girl's face looked as if it needed a bandage and ointment. Sango knew her face was probably going to be sore for a while but all in all she had gotten off lucky because Inuyasha has been able to feel her fear. But she knew it would take some time for the young woman to recover both physically and otherwise. The demon slayer looked at Inuyasha also. He could tell it was going to be a rough road for them for a while.
After Kagome was dressed in a sweater and soft velvet pants, Inuyasha picked her up and headed back to camp. Sango gathered up everything that was lying around, shoving it into Kagome's pack. The hanyou's mind was on getting her back to camp and treating her ailments now. When he broke thru the brush Miroku, Shippo and Kirara jumped up to see why he was carrying Kagome. Sango ran in front of them to head them off especially a jump happy kit. She ran over and picked him up. Inuyasha walked over to where her sleeping bag had been laid out for her by Shippo and put her down on it. Unconsciously she held on to his shirt not wanting to loose the contact, but he uncoiled her fingers around his outer shirt and laid it at her side. Sango, who had Shippo in one arm, was already bringing Inuyasha the first aid kit.
Inuyasha attended to her face first applying something he knew would keep it from getting infected and help it heal and then applied a square bandage to the cut. He then took each wrist and rubbed in a muscle/bruise healing cream and wrapped each on a bandage. He did all this very efficiently after watching her or nearly 2 and a half years he had picked up a few things. As Inuyasha tended his mate, Sango was left to explain what happened.
"What happened to Lady Kagome?" Miroku asked worriedly.
"Yeah Sango!" Shippo asked with tears in his eyes. "Mama-Kagome looks bad..." Kirara nuzzled into her leg as she sat down near the monk.
"We were checking out the two Inn's in town to see which one had a bath we could use. I chose one and she chose the other and it wasn't very far away. But someone in-between where I left her and the other end she was attacked by some men..." she let the thought hang in the air unfinished. Miroku drew his own conclusion and Shippo just thought she was finished.
"Is she gonna be ok, Sango?" Shippo asked in a small voice.
"She just passed out Shippo; she'll wake soon. But you have to do something and remember to do it for a little while. You have to try your best for Mama-Kagome's sake ok?" Sango told him.
"Ok what?"
"Don't make any real fast moves at her ok? Make sure she knows your there and ask before you hug her can you do that?" Shippo nodded.
"I can, but why?"
"Shippo," Inuyasha called. He decided to explain it to their adopted pup. Shippo came running to Inuyasha and bounced up on his shoulder. "Pup," he started with a glance at him and a pat on his head. "Mama-Kagome isn't gonna be feeling good for a while. Those men hurt her and she is gonna need you to do those things ok?" Shippo looked down and then hugged Inuyasha. The hanyou hugged him back. He didn't hug their pup often but he did when he knew he needed it and Kagome was unavailable. "She'll be all right runt;" he used the name as an endearment now. Shippo harrumphed playfully and jumped off his shoulder and ran to sit in Sango's lap to stay out of the way. Inuyasha gave the houshi a glare.
"Monk, lay off you lechery until she is better if you scare her you will regret it."
"Think no more about it my hands will behave till you tell me I swear on my father's grave!" Inuyasha nodded satisfied. In fact he knew no one would be touching her save her family and their group for a long while. He sighed wanting to blame himself for what happened, and wanting to blame Sango for leaving her alone but he knew by the look of the men there would have been more to take her down too if she had been there also. She was a good fighter but with no weapons and several opponents stronger than you, she was bound to go down just like Kagome did. The hanyou shuttered.
Miroku took the initiative and went to go get fire wood. He wasn't gone long and in the time he had been the camp had become quiet. Inuyasha had pulled Kagome back in his lap as he was sitting against a tree holding her close. His eyes were closed as he rested concentrating on his mate sending love and healing thru their link. In extreme conditions demons could transfer more healing powers to their mates thru the mated link even more than the blood sharing. He was in a light doze working to heal his mate when he heard the fire crackle to life. Shippo in the mean time had decided to nap in Sango's lap accompanied by Kirara.
Sango made soup for dinner that night but guessed Inuyasha and Kagome would not be eating. She made sure Shippo ate and fed Kirara and Miroku also. For the most part Miroku and Sango had been chatting between themselves leaving the couple alone. As the sunset and night crept in on the camp a wind began to blow bring in cool air from the north. Sango got up after Miroku and Shippo had gone to lay down taking Kirara also, and picked up Kagome's sleeping back and set if over the mated pair. Inuyasha heard her approach and felt the weight of the blanket being put on top of them.
"Thanks Sango," he whispered. The demon slayer's hand came to rest on his shoulder. He opened his eyes.
"No problem." She looked at him a minute. "It's gonna be a long haul, Inuyasha." He nodded.
"I can feel the turmoil set-aside in her mind at the moment. Right now she is sleeping to deep in our connection to feel pain of any kind." Sango was slightly relieved her friend was sleeping peacefully for the time being at least.
"Just remember she has to deal with it all to without relying on your link to hide from it." Inuyasha looked down. "What's wrong?" Sango asked.
"I turned full demon when I felt her in danger, and she saw me slaughter those men." Sango sighed.
"And your worried about what she'll do?" Inuyasha nodded. "If it hadn't had been her it would have been another poor woman who didn't have a good a protector as you. Just wait and don't worry, they deserve what they got," she told him. But Inuyasha was very unconvinced. He just nodded to appease her. She knew he didn't believe her. When he went full demon, she knew it bothered him. But he hadn't done that since they had become mates. He was frightened that after this incident he might frighten her much to stay with him. He thought on it a moment longer then turned back to Sango.
"We leave in the morning, early." Sango agreed and then went to pull out her blankets and then slide into her bedroll.
Morning came early for the hanyou but he was almost always up before anyone. Kagome had slept in his arm all night without any problems. For that he was thankful. He slowly shifted and pushed the sleeping back out on to the ground with is feet. This morning he knew she was going to need to eat and he could also feel her beginning to come towards consciousness. He placed her on to the blanketed ground and covered her with a blanket. He got up to search her pack for something to eat. He was half way thru her pack when he heard her scream. He jumped up and looked about seeing no danger he ran to her.
"NO NO!! INUYASHA!!" she screamed why she started to cry. She was awake but had come out of a nightmare into reality. As soon as Inuyasha had left her side her mind had slipped into disturbing dreams. The loss of his touch, and coming back into the real world again provoked the onslaught. He was at her side in an instant pulling her into his arms. She fought him with all her strength still lost in a dream but just as soon as she started yelling she stopped once she was laying against Inuyasha. Kagome relaxed and opened her eyes to find worried amber ones looking back. She threw her arms around his neck and snuggled the unhurt side of her face into his shoulder. Her yelling had woken up the others but seeing Inuyasha holding Kagome they turned over and went back to sleep giving them some privacy. He held on to Kagome stroking her hair as she started crying.
"Hey, hey, It's ok love. I'm here." He looked around and quickly picked her up seeing the need for privacy. He knew she would probably need to cry for a while and then talk. He had felt all of her unsettled thoughts coming to the surface as she began to come awake that morning. His healing powers that she had gotten from the blood sharing, and his extra effort thru their bond could only heal the wounds that were physical. The other would be slow process. He leapt off into the forest with her in his arms and found a tree to sit against a minute or two into the wood He sat down under its canopy and leaned into the trunk. She had kept crying thru the run into the trees and was now tucked safely against him still shedding her tears. Thru the mated soul-bond, Inuyasha felt an outpouring of sadness, fear, shame, guilt, and incredible hurt inside. He could also feel to his somewhat relief that her injuries hurt her less and that her open cut had been completely healed over. She still looked quite bruised under her eye all the way to her jaw and her wrists were still purple and blue under the bandages. He sighed and held her close. Her tears were subsiding and he knew it was time for her to talk about what happened. He didn't know how but hoped that the intuition guiding him would help heal his mate's mind and heart.
Oh, why you look so sad,
The tears are in your eyes,
Come on and come to me now.
And don't be ashamed to cry,
Let me see you through,
'Cause I've seen the dark side too.
When the night falls on you,
You don't know what to do,
Nothing you confess
Could make me love you less.
I'll stand by you,
I'll stand by you,
Won't let nobody hurt you,
I'll stand by you.
"Kagome," he said gently. She knew what he wanted and she just didn't want to face it yet. She shook her head. "Kagome, talk to me." It was then she pushed away from him and got to her feet unsteadily and walked a few paces away.
"NO! No, I can't not right now." Inuyasha knew she was about the burst but just didn't want to open her self up to the chaos that awaited her once she let it out. The hanyou got up but didn't go to her. He knew this was a decision she was going to have to make.
"Kagome, Love. I know your hurting. I feel it tearing you up inside. Remember I feel what you do. Everything in you is telling you to let it go. Mate, you look so lost. Come here to me," he held open his arms. "Let me help you thru this. No matter what happens I'll be here to catch you and keep you safe. The people who tried to hurt you are gone. Come talk to me. Let it go and let me take some of that pain. There is nothing in this world that could make me love you any less. Tell me what's going on inside. Let me hold you, for our bond is stronger than anything that has happened." Kagome stood there listening to his speech. His words touched her deep in her soul and his love cascaded down their link like a warm waterfall. Something in side her broke. All the walls that had been holding the memories and uncontrollable emotions pent up broke under the weight of her mates love and concern. Her cries became desperate as she turned to him. He had her in his warm embrace quicker than her knees could collapse under her.
It felt like her who world had caved in on top of her bringing an never ending wave of darkness thru the unbridled feelings that swept thru her consciousness. He pulled her back into his lap and sat back against the tree as he listened to her pained cries muffle in his outer shirt. He let her take the time to gather herself, which took several minutes to get some semblance of control back.
"Oh Inuyasha," she cried thru her tears. "I was just going to that other Inn when they came out of the tavern! There were so many...." Her weeping claimed her energies another moment till she could repress them long enough to talk again. Inuyasha rubbed her back but stayed silent letting her go at her own pace. "I was going to turn around and go get Sango but they got me from behind and dragged me into that awful alley! I tried to scream but that was when he hit me," she remembered as her hand came up to her cheek. Inuyasha caught it.
"It's ok love. I took care of it. Plus with our combined healing it shouldn't hurt so badly." She nodded and he continued to hold onto her hand.
"They then held me down and I tried to get loose but he hit me again and it was all I could do to keep awake and think of you. I knew you were coming. I felt you changing. And I was so scared that man was going to take what we shared away. I didn't want him to do that to me. I felt so guilty for not leaving faster. I can't believe that almost happened to me. He almost...and I can't believe....and I felt his hands...I felt like I was betraying you...like I was a disgrace..." Inuyasha took her shoulders into his hands gently and pulled her up.
"NO! This is not your fault!! Don't you dare believe that! Your are good and blameless in this. You have NOTHING to be guilty or ashamed about! It was only those bastards' fault for doing that! And now they are gone. I won't let anything hurt you ever again. I am always here for you. PLEASE, please don't think it's your fault. God's be damned assholes! I wish I could have killed them again!" Kagome looked into his eyes and felt his protective love and sincerity wash over her and believed him and tried to wrap her mind around the idea it wasn't her fault. She also felt his anger rising similar to when she was being attacked but on a smaller degree. That anger was for her, and she appreciated that more than words could express. She knew he had become full demon in her distress not knowing what would be waiting for him. But she didn't care because, she knew it was to save her. She suddenly felt a bit of worry and shame from her mate that made her focus on him instead of tornado of feelings in herself.
"Inuyasha what is it?" Kagome asked him as he pulled her against his chest.
So, if you're mad, get mad;
Don't hold it all inside,
Come on and talk to me now.
And hey,
What you got to hide?
I get angry too,
Well, I'm a lot like you.
When you're standing at the crossroads
And don't know which path to choose,
Let me come along,
'Cause even if you're wrong,
I'll stand by you,
I'll stand by you,
Won't let nobody hurt you.
I'll stand by you,
Take me in into your darkest hour,
And I'll never desert you,
I'll stand by you.
"Kagome, I...I couldn't control my demon side when I felt you were in danger. I was so angry it took completely over. I'm sorry. I know that I probably scare you now,..." Kagome jerked up from his chest and looked him in the eyes.
"Don't you even be sorry! That anger saved my life! I don't care if your demon half or human! They are all apart of you there for apart of me. You shouldn't have to hide that side, Inuyasha. I could never be afraid of you. Don't try to stop that anger when it comes. I can't deny I didn't want them dead. I felt you changing and I welcomed your wrath on them. They were gonna hurt me...."she said with tears in her eyes.
"Shhh. It's ok mate. I'm here. I'll always protect you."
"And I don't care even if you turn full demon; I'd still be here. I'm not going anywhere, Inuyasha, love."
"I could maybe have done something not so gory once I saw they were only stupid humans....But when I saw you there and could feel your pain, nothing else mattered except killing those bastards who were hurting MY mate!" Every time he thought on it he got angry. It made him wish he could kill them all over again, only slowly.
"I don't care if you had options you did what you thought was right. And whatever the consequences I'll be by your side always. If they wonder why there is a pile of gore in that alley let them ask Sango or me. No matter what happens, there is nothing that anyone could do to make me leave you. I said 'I do' and became apart with all of you no just the parts that are gentle and loving, but the demon side who is fierce and wild too. All of you Inuyasha, I mean that with all my heart." Inuyasha pulled her into a tight hug and buried her face in her long ebony hair. Her scent calmed him. He leaned back and she moved herself to straddle his hips and lay against his chest suddenly tired and drained. He wrapped his arm around her and leaned his head against the tree.
And when, when the night falls on you, baby,
You're feeling all alone,
You won't be on your own.
I'll stand by you,
I'll stand by you,
Won't let nobody hurt you.
I'll stand by you,
Take me in into your darkest hour,
And I'll never desert you.
I'll stand by you.
Kagome's mood began to shift with lack of distraction and he kissed her forehead. She let the tears fall down her cheeks. She felt loved and safe but she still hurt inside from the previous day's events, and she felt scared. Burrowing deeper into his embrace she shook slightly. Inuyasha nuzzled the top of her head with his cheek. Kagome looked up at him suddenly searching for reassurance and something more. "I'm here love, I will always be. No one will hurt you any more." She surprised herself when she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. Inuyasha wasn't however having felt an underlining passion brewing. She had feared that what had happened would have killed all of her passionate feelings for the physical love they shared. But suddenly she needed him, all of him to be one with her. He suspected it was her soul and hearts way of needing to be mended. So he let her kiss him wrapping her arms around him returning what she gave.
"Inuyasha, I'm not sure if I can do this..." He looked deeply into her eyes.
"Love, I'm not going to hurt you ever. I'd die first. Do what you want to, and I'll return what ever you can give." Kagome kissed him again. She suddenly felt safe wrapped in his arms surrounded by the warm glow of his protecting love. She craved the sanctuary they're coupling provided them. The pure raw unrestrained emotions of being completely one with her mate.
Inuyasha pulled them both to their knees and pulled his outer shirt off and laid it on the ground. Inuyasha lay down on his shirt and pulled her down next to him. He looked at her and saw tears in her eyes. "Kagome," he caressed her cheek. "Are you sure? Are you getting scared?"
"Inuyasha, I am more sure that anything in the world. I want you to love me like you always have drowned out the memories. Make me forget the pain and his touch by loving me." Tears fell down her face as Inuyasha took hold of her.
"I do love you my Kagome. And now I'll show you also," He turned over and kissed her with gentle passion slowly deepening the kissing as he let her. Their bodies became intertwined as their desire rose.
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Kagome laid wrapped in his outer red shirt straddling his hips nestled against his chest. Inuyasha sat against a tree, sporting pants, with her lying on top of him, his arms draped around her waist and his cheek was resting against the top of her head. The miko was in a deep slumber while her mate lightly dozed taking in every sound and smell around them. Kagome sat in a haze of amber waves that consumed her frazzled state of being and healed her soul and heart after being one with Inuyasha. He heard rustling coming thru the underbrush from the direction of camp. His eyes popped open in time to see the other four members of their group walking towards them. He tightened his grip on Kagome and looked down to make sure she was covered, which she was. They finally caught sight of the two resting and Sango turned and told Miroku something and then she approached alone, handing Shippo to the monk.
Sango walked up softly to Inuyasha's side looking strait at him. She kneeled next to him. "Is everything ok?" she asked in a bare whisper.
"I think she'll be ok eventually," he sighed in a similar volume to the demon slayer's voice. "But she's on the right track." Sango smiled at her.
"Inuyasha, I think she'll be fine too. She couldn't have asked for a better mate to be by her side thru it." Inuyasha just looked at her a moment. She just smiled and got up and left taking the others with her to fill them in. Inuyasha looked in the direction Sango had walked for a few minutes. He finally smiled thanking her in her mind. He decided he wasn't ready to get up yet or willing to wake Kagome, so he just wrapped his arms more firmly around her and closed his eyes and fell back into a light nap focusing again on healing his mates body, mind, heart, and soul.
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Well, that' it hope you enjoyed it. Please R+R and tell me if you want me to continue you this story cuz I probably could if I had enough incentive ;). Well till laters, LJ
Disclaimer: I don't own Inuyasha or the song I'm just borrowing um.
~~~Protection~~~
It was another just another day in the Warring States Era. The sun was casting colors across the open expanse of the sky at sunset. If one looked closely high in a tree above most others, they'd see a couple resting on a branch watching the solar journey's end for the day.
Kagome wore Inuyasha's red outer shirt over her short skirt and shirtsleeve shirt as she rested against him. He held her gently around her arms and chest as she lay across his chest with her eyes closed and her head on his shoulder. Her sock-covered feet hung off the branch loosely as Inuyasha cradled her form. He rested against the thick trunk looking out over the land and sky watching the colors dance across the flooded rice patty fields. The two of them spent at least 3 evenings a week in a tree just as they are now to watch the sunset and feel connected in the quiet of the day. Inuyasha preferred only her company when he could manage it, but tolerated his friends most of the time also which he didn't mind putting up with really.
But there they were now for the second night in a row, Kagome asleep in his arms and him, he remembered all over again how this woman became his mate and wife. He considered mate first and foremost it was all encompassing more so than just a wife. After they had gone thru the mating ceremony they had become one in two bodies. The peace of her sleeping filled Inuyasha's soul as her rested feelings trickled down thru there mated soul link. He drank it in like the finest wines as he did everyday now when she slipped into slumber in his arms.
The last few months had brought drastic changes to their small group mainly between the two of them. They bickered some still but nothing was ever said that would hurt the other. Shippo had fallen right into a family with them and loved the way Inuyasha started treating him the night after they had become mates. The arguing between the two hadn't stopped but had taken a turn for a more respectful tone where Shippo was concerned and more patients on Inuyasha's end. But the two still bumped heads an awful lot and for the most part Kagome just assumed to stay out of it. The halfhearted arguments and the lack of 'sits' made the group a tad more boring but Miroku did keep it lively with his constant hentai behavior. But as soon as Kagome and the hanyou had mated Miroku was all hands off of the miko. He knew better than that, friend or not, you don't screw with a demon's mate any idiot, which he was, knew that.
The next night after a day of shard hunting, the group had decided to stop near a small village where they could get supplies in the morning. They had stopped in the late afternoon wanting to rest up a bit. The shard hunting crew needed wood for a fire to cook on and warm up by that night.
"All right, since you all seem like you are about to fall over, I'm gonna go get some wood for tonight. You'd think we hadn't rested in a week or something!" Inuyasha announced foreseeing the need. Kagome was sitting down resting her soar feet.
"Hey Inu-chan before you run off, I'm gonna walk into the village and see if they have a bath I could use." Inuyasha stopped before he leapt off into the woods, and went over to his mate.
"Don't go alone have Sango go with you." He looked over at the demon slayer who nodded. Inuyasha kissed her forehead. "Be careful," he told her with a hand on her cheek. He then bounded out into the forest. Kagome smiled to herself. Even though he was already out of sight she felt him near her like always. Even though he as not by her side physically he always left half of himself behind when they were apart. The miko rubbed her cheek where Inuyasha's hand had been and then turned to her friend.
"Come on Sango, I need a bath!" Kagome turned to pick up her pack and started toward the nearby village. Sango brought along a change of clothes, towel, and a bar of soap for if they actually did find something. It only took them 10 minutes to wander into what they figured was the village center. The place was large enough to be called a town actually for they did have two Inns and a placemen went to drink. Kagome decided to try the Inn on the right to see if they had bathing facilities, Sango opted for the one on the left which was closer.
They each headed toward the chosen inns. Sango entered the one and disappeared from view thru the door. Kagome began walking over to the other, which was across the square they had to pass a rowdy looking bunch of men who had just come out of the tavern. There were 10 of them 4 out weighting her by double at least. Kagome looked over her shoulder at where Sango had gone and then proceeded to walk around the group toward the Inn door. Kagome walked slowly afraid to go to fast and attract attention to herself. An odd feeling of foreboding began to make her feel like they needed to leave. Kagome stopped short.
She decided it would be prudent to turn around and run to the other Inn where Sango had entered but as she turned around a large arm wrapped around her waist and the other around her mouth. She tried to scream but it was muffled into the large hand. The fear she felt was intense. She knew what they wanted and one thought shot thru her heart mind and soul, "INUYASHA!" The man that had her took her toward the other inn that had been her destination in the first place. Only instead of going in he moved down an alley between to buildings where only the moon lit the small passageway. She began to cry as she felt him shove her down to the ground. She took the opportunity to scream but the moment she opened her mouth she was slapped hard across the face sending pain shooting thru her head. She put her hand up to her face and realized he had struck her so hard he had made her bleed across her cheekbone. She heard him come nearer and stand over her.
"If you try to scream again, you will not have any teeth left next time," a deep male voice said. He then kneeled and motioned his friends over to help him. Two more men knelt on either side of her grabbing her wrists and holding her to the ground. The one in front of her ran his hand up the side of her leg toward the hem of her skirt. She started to struggle and got tighter, bruising grips on her wrists and another smack across her already sore right cheek. She cried out sharply at the pain that threatened to make her pass out. Her head throbbed, her arms hurt, and she felt vaguely rough hands moving up her sides pushing up her top. All she could do was cry and retreat into her self. The feeling of the men around her became far removed from her mind as she moved the warmth of the connection that Inuyasha and her shared. She could also feel a mounting fury that was not her own. The miko knew that anger would fuel his transformation into a full demon. But in all her pain and terror she called out to that welcoming his wrath upon her assailants. They were about to steal the most precious gift she had shared with another. She couldn't fight her way out or cry out for help but she knew he was coming. She could feel him come nearer as their link became more prominent. The pain and the shock made consciousness hard to cling to but she knew if she could hang on it would be easier for her mate to feel their bond if she remained focused on him. She felt waves of love and worry flow thru the thread that bound their hearts and souls. She could suddenly feel him moving fast thru the town almost on top of where the men held her. She heard one of the men above her say "Wait a minute, She's got one of those demon threads!" The man on her right was referring to her silver necklace made of her mate's hair. They took the time then to look into her blank stare to see the golden flakes that showed in the light brown color of her iris.
"She's a demon's bitch!" the larger man on her left yelled.
"Oh shit," said the third who had been paying her the unwanted attentions. Before they could move they heard the unearthly howl of a demon at the end of the alley. There stood a demon with red eyes and violet pupils and streaks across his dog like face. The battered woman on the ground called to him in a whisper...
"Inuyasha...."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
While Inuyasha had been wood the complete opposite way that Kagome had gone. He found himself rethinking his decision to let her go even with Sango. He knew she could probably take care of herself but these times were so much more dangerous than hers were. And he had had a bad feeling for the past few minutes. He guessed she would be at the village by now as he was picking up dried branches for the fire.
He felt an unease slip into his consciousness thru his link with Kagome. He then felt it start to heighten as a minute passed. Her determination set into motion a decision that made her feel better slightly. He had barely started to relax when he felt her fear hit him like some one had punched him hard enough to take his breath away. He had dropped everything and started to run.
As he ran toward the village he could feel her fear increase and he could taste her tears. His insides felt as though they were being torn apart by her terror. He pushed himself to the limits his body would go to get to her. The drive to save and protect her took over all of his thinking and actions. He felt nothing save what she did.
When she was struck, and her pain filtered thru the bond, he was consumed by hatred and fear for his mate. His demon blood began to override his human side. The overwhelming need to protect HIS mate was an instinct deep than his human compassion for any bystanders or his reverence for life of others. His eyes started to take on a reddish hue and his demon instincts to protect took over.
As he came to the edge of the town he felt her pain intensify and could smell her blood on the wind. She had been struck again he knew. This knowledge drew him deeper into his demon blood. His eyes were turning and streaks across his face were beginning to form. As he crossed the square he heard a man from the direction of where he could feel Kagome and smell her blood, say something about demon threads and he knew she was there. He stopped at the opening of the dead end alleyway between the two buildings. He then heard another man label her a bitch, which she in essence was with his being a dog demon. And a man sitting between two small legs curse. He mind had gone minutes ago and his conscience with it. The strained whisper of his mate sent him into a battle rage running toward the three men.
They didn't have a chance. They quickly got to their feet and ran to the dead end not 5 feet from where they were, leaving Kagome lying on the ground. He was full demon now fueled by Kagome's pain and terror and the smell of her blood. The men huddled into a corner together knowing it was the end.
"YOU DARE TOUCH HER!!! SHE IS MINE AND NOW YOU DIE!!! IRON REVER SOUL STEALER!!!" His claws come down over the men and they were sliced into pieces. Their body parts fell into a bloody pile in the corner of the alley. Inuyasha's chest heaved with exertion from running and then accosting her attackers. A sudden cry of pain and wave of relief made him turn to lay eyes on Kagome still lying where the men had left her. He stood there momentarily as his demon side faded away. She had seen everything and he was afraid of what she would do once she had time to think on what happened. But at this moment in time she needed him and he pushed everything aside and ran to her.
Deep amber eyes met her light brown and gold speckled gaze as he kneeled beside her.
"Kagome, love," he couldn't ask if she was ok or what happened for he knew the answer to both. She was on the verge of flying apart at the seems and collapsing in on herself all at once.
"Inuyasha," came her pained cry as she reached for him. He quickly picked her up into his arms and tucked her against his body firmly.
"Kagome, where's Sango?" he asked softly making sure there wasn't another female he needed to rescue before he bolted. Just then she appeared in the opening of the alley Inuyasha was headed towards.
"What..." Inuyasha didn't give her a chance to finish.
"Are you ok?" he asked in a gruff voice. Sango just nodded. "Get Kagome's bag and get back to camp now!" He barked the order but it was necessary no time for talking or explaining. The demon exterminator caught sight of the gruesome pile in the corner but didn't flinch. She assumed that is what was left of Kagome's attackers and did as she was told. Inuyasha turned and left. He was followed 3 paces back by Sango. Kagome finally gave up the last of her energy into leaning into her mate and let the blackness consume her. The pain faded away and only the warmth of Inuyasha's protective loving spirit wrapped around her soul was left. She let herself relax into the golden glow that resembled the color of his eyes. It was here that she slept as Inuyasha carried her back to their camp.
Inuyasha felt her fall into a deep slumber covered in their connection. He let out a sigh as he walked. He looked down at her. "God's Kagome, what did those bastards do to you...." Upon entering the small passageway where he had found Kagome, he had smelled the men's excitement from what they were about to do. He now needed to look her over and see the full extent of the damage. He also knew a small stream ran near their campsite. He didn't want her waking up in the same clothes or condition she passed out in. He looked back at Sango. "Those men back there tired to...." he couldn't get the word out. "I need to bath her before she wakes, and I need your help."
"Ok is there somewhere we can do this?" He nodded and headed to the right. It didn't take but another two minutes to reach the stream where he intended to clean his mate. He knew Sango could probably hold her for a second so he turned to her.
"Can you hold her?" Inuyasha asked. Sango stepped forward taking Kagome into her arms. The girl was lighter than she thought she was going to be. "Turn please," he asked in a low voice. Sango did as he asked and he stripped then wrapped a towel around him. "Ok," he said the Sango and she turned to face him. He took kagome into his arms again. He noticed that she had begun to stir in Sango's arms but once back in his she quieted, slipping back into the golden warmth. He had felt her fear slightly when he had handed her off, which is why he completed this task so quickly. "I need you help to undress her."
"Ok, you hold her and ill get the stuff of." Inuyasha nodded. He kneeled to where he could more easily maneuver her to allow her friend access.
Finally with her cloths set in a pile on the shore Inuyasha eased him and her bodies into the cool water. It was slightly cool but not enough to shock one's body. He lowered her into the water that was waist deep for him and began to rinse her hair and pale form. Sango threw him a bar of soap, which he caught deftly in his claws making sure it didn't fly out of his grasp. He washed her carefully looking over her body in the late afternoon sun. As he washed the scent of the men off her he found her only real injuries were to her face and wrists, which he attended to gently. When he washed the blood from her face a small cry of pain nearly made his heart break. But he steeled his resolve and cleaned her thoroughly. He then threw the soap back to Sango. She didn't even attempt to catch knowing it would fall thru her hands. She threw him a bottle of Shampoo the miko was always using to wash her hair with. She decided not to bother with the conditioner since it didn't seem necessary at the moment. She would be clean and that was all Inuyasha wanted to do right now.
He proceeded to wash her hair, rinse it and then stand up in the water bringing Kagome with him tucked against his chest. He moved out of the water and walked to Sango who was waiting with a towel for Kagome. He allowed the demon slayer top wrap the cloth around his mate and then deposited the girl back into Sango's arms to get dressed. Her sleep became disquieted again as he rushed to dry himself and put on his clothes. Sango got a good look at her friend as she helped Inuyasha put her clothes back on after she had given the miko back to him. Her wrists were showing signs of deep bruising that could use wrapping, and the girl's face looked as if it needed a bandage and ointment. Sango knew her face was probably going to be sore for a while but all in all she had gotten off lucky because Inuyasha has been able to feel her fear. But she knew it would take some time for the young woman to recover both physically and otherwise. The demon slayer looked at Inuyasha also. He could tell it was going to be a rough road for them for a while.
After Kagome was dressed in a sweater and soft velvet pants, Inuyasha picked her up and headed back to camp. Sango gathered up everything that was lying around, shoving it into Kagome's pack. The hanyou's mind was on getting her back to camp and treating her ailments now. When he broke thru the brush Miroku, Shippo and Kirara jumped up to see why he was carrying Kagome. Sango ran in front of them to head them off especially a jump happy kit. She ran over and picked him up. Inuyasha walked over to where her sleeping bag had been laid out for her by Shippo and put her down on it. Unconsciously she held on to his shirt not wanting to loose the contact, but he uncoiled her fingers around his outer shirt and laid it at her side. Sango, who had Shippo in one arm, was already bringing Inuyasha the first aid kit.
Inuyasha attended to her face first applying something he knew would keep it from getting infected and help it heal and then applied a square bandage to the cut. He then took each wrist and rubbed in a muscle/bruise healing cream and wrapped each on a bandage. He did all this very efficiently after watching her or nearly 2 and a half years he had picked up a few things. As Inuyasha tended his mate, Sango was left to explain what happened.
"What happened to Lady Kagome?" Miroku asked worriedly.
"Yeah Sango!" Shippo asked with tears in his eyes. "Mama-Kagome looks bad..." Kirara nuzzled into her leg as she sat down near the monk.
"We were checking out the two Inn's in town to see which one had a bath we could use. I chose one and she chose the other and it wasn't very far away. But someone in-between where I left her and the other end she was attacked by some men..." she let the thought hang in the air unfinished. Miroku drew his own conclusion and Shippo just thought she was finished.
"Is she gonna be ok, Sango?" Shippo asked in a small voice.
"She just passed out Shippo; she'll wake soon. But you have to do something and remember to do it for a little while. You have to try your best for Mama-Kagome's sake ok?" Sango told him.
"Ok what?"
"Don't make any real fast moves at her ok? Make sure she knows your there and ask before you hug her can you do that?" Shippo nodded.
"I can, but why?"
"Shippo," Inuyasha called. He decided to explain it to their adopted pup. Shippo came running to Inuyasha and bounced up on his shoulder. "Pup," he started with a glance at him and a pat on his head. "Mama-Kagome isn't gonna be feeling good for a while. Those men hurt her and she is gonna need you to do those things ok?" Shippo looked down and then hugged Inuyasha. The hanyou hugged him back. He didn't hug their pup often but he did when he knew he needed it and Kagome was unavailable. "She'll be all right runt;" he used the name as an endearment now. Shippo harrumphed playfully and jumped off his shoulder and ran to sit in Sango's lap to stay out of the way. Inuyasha gave the houshi a glare.
"Monk, lay off you lechery until she is better if you scare her you will regret it."
"Think no more about it my hands will behave till you tell me I swear on my father's grave!" Inuyasha nodded satisfied. In fact he knew no one would be touching her save her family and their group for a long while. He sighed wanting to blame himself for what happened, and wanting to blame Sango for leaving her alone but he knew by the look of the men there would have been more to take her down too if she had been there also. She was a good fighter but with no weapons and several opponents stronger than you, she was bound to go down just like Kagome did. The hanyou shuttered.
Miroku took the initiative and went to go get fire wood. He wasn't gone long and in the time he had been the camp had become quiet. Inuyasha had pulled Kagome back in his lap as he was sitting against a tree holding her close. His eyes were closed as he rested concentrating on his mate sending love and healing thru their link. In extreme conditions demons could transfer more healing powers to their mates thru the mated link even more than the blood sharing. He was in a light doze working to heal his mate when he heard the fire crackle to life. Shippo in the mean time had decided to nap in Sango's lap accompanied by Kirara.
Sango made soup for dinner that night but guessed Inuyasha and Kagome would not be eating. She made sure Shippo ate and fed Kirara and Miroku also. For the most part Miroku and Sango had been chatting between themselves leaving the couple alone. As the sunset and night crept in on the camp a wind began to blow bring in cool air from the north. Sango got up after Miroku and Shippo had gone to lay down taking Kirara also, and picked up Kagome's sleeping back and set if over the mated pair. Inuyasha heard her approach and felt the weight of the blanket being put on top of them.
"Thanks Sango," he whispered. The demon slayer's hand came to rest on his shoulder. He opened his eyes.
"No problem." She looked at him a minute. "It's gonna be a long haul, Inuyasha." He nodded.
"I can feel the turmoil set-aside in her mind at the moment. Right now she is sleeping to deep in our connection to feel pain of any kind." Sango was slightly relieved her friend was sleeping peacefully for the time being at least.
"Just remember she has to deal with it all to without relying on your link to hide from it." Inuyasha looked down. "What's wrong?" Sango asked.
"I turned full demon when I felt her in danger, and she saw me slaughter those men." Sango sighed.
"And your worried about what she'll do?" Inuyasha nodded. "If it hadn't had been her it would have been another poor woman who didn't have a good a protector as you. Just wait and don't worry, they deserve what they got," she told him. But Inuyasha was very unconvinced. He just nodded to appease her. She knew he didn't believe her. When he went full demon, she knew it bothered him. But he hadn't done that since they had become mates. He was frightened that after this incident he might frighten her much to stay with him. He thought on it a moment longer then turned back to Sango.
"We leave in the morning, early." Sango agreed and then went to pull out her blankets and then slide into her bedroll.
Morning came early for the hanyou but he was almost always up before anyone. Kagome had slept in his arm all night without any problems. For that he was thankful. He slowly shifted and pushed the sleeping back out on to the ground with is feet. This morning he knew she was going to need to eat and he could also feel her beginning to come towards consciousness. He placed her on to the blanketed ground and covered her with a blanket. He got up to search her pack for something to eat. He was half way thru her pack when he heard her scream. He jumped up and looked about seeing no danger he ran to her.
"NO NO!! INUYASHA!!" she screamed why she started to cry. She was awake but had come out of a nightmare into reality. As soon as Inuyasha had left her side her mind had slipped into disturbing dreams. The loss of his touch, and coming back into the real world again provoked the onslaught. He was at her side in an instant pulling her into his arms. She fought him with all her strength still lost in a dream but just as soon as she started yelling she stopped once she was laying against Inuyasha. Kagome relaxed and opened her eyes to find worried amber ones looking back. She threw her arms around his neck and snuggled the unhurt side of her face into his shoulder. Her yelling had woken up the others but seeing Inuyasha holding Kagome they turned over and went back to sleep giving them some privacy. He held on to Kagome stroking her hair as she started crying.
"Hey, hey, It's ok love. I'm here." He looked around and quickly picked her up seeing the need for privacy. He knew she would probably need to cry for a while and then talk. He had felt all of her unsettled thoughts coming to the surface as she began to come awake that morning. His healing powers that she had gotten from the blood sharing, and his extra effort thru their bond could only heal the wounds that were physical. The other would be slow process. He leapt off into the forest with her in his arms and found a tree to sit against a minute or two into the wood He sat down under its canopy and leaned into the trunk. She had kept crying thru the run into the trees and was now tucked safely against him still shedding her tears. Thru the mated soul-bond, Inuyasha felt an outpouring of sadness, fear, shame, guilt, and incredible hurt inside. He could also feel to his somewhat relief that her injuries hurt her less and that her open cut had been completely healed over. She still looked quite bruised under her eye all the way to her jaw and her wrists were still purple and blue under the bandages. He sighed and held her close. Her tears were subsiding and he knew it was time for her to talk about what happened. He didn't know how but hoped that the intuition guiding him would help heal his mate's mind and heart.
Oh, why you look so sad,
The tears are in your eyes,
Come on and come to me now.
And don't be ashamed to cry,
Let me see you through,
'Cause I've seen the dark side too.
When the night falls on you,
You don't know what to do,
Nothing you confess
Could make me love you less.
I'll stand by you,
I'll stand by you,
Won't let nobody hurt you,
I'll stand by you.
"Kagome," he said gently. She knew what he wanted and she just didn't want to face it yet. She shook her head. "Kagome, talk to me." It was then she pushed away from him and got to her feet unsteadily and walked a few paces away.
"NO! No, I can't not right now." Inuyasha knew she was about the burst but just didn't want to open her self up to the chaos that awaited her once she let it out. The hanyou got up but didn't go to her. He knew this was a decision she was going to have to make.
"Kagome, Love. I know your hurting. I feel it tearing you up inside. Remember I feel what you do. Everything in you is telling you to let it go. Mate, you look so lost. Come here to me," he held open his arms. "Let me help you thru this. No matter what happens I'll be here to catch you and keep you safe. The people who tried to hurt you are gone. Come talk to me. Let it go and let me take some of that pain. There is nothing in this world that could make me love you any less. Tell me what's going on inside. Let me hold you, for our bond is stronger than anything that has happened." Kagome stood there listening to his speech. His words touched her deep in her soul and his love cascaded down their link like a warm waterfall. Something in side her broke. All the walls that had been holding the memories and uncontrollable emotions pent up broke under the weight of her mates love and concern. Her cries became desperate as she turned to him. He had her in his warm embrace quicker than her knees could collapse under her.
It felt like her who world had caved in on top of her bringing an never ending wave of darkness thru the unbridled feelings that swept thru her consciousness. He pulled her back into his lap and sat back against the tree as he listened to her pained cries muffle in his outer shirt. He let her take the time to gather herself, which took several minutes to get some semblance of control back.
"Oh Inuyasha," she cried thru her tears. "I was just going to that other Inn when they came out of the tavern! There were so many...." Her weeping claimed her energies another moment till she could repress them long enough to talk again. Inuyasha rubbed her back but stayed silent letting her go at her own pace. "I was going to turn around and go get Sango but they got me from behind and dragged me into that awful alley! I tried to scream but that was when he hit me," she remembered as her hand came up to her cheek. Inuyasha caught it.
"It's ok love. I took care of it. Plus with our combined healing it shouldn't hurt so badly." She nodded and he continued to hold onto her hand.
"They then held me down and I tried to get loose but he hit me again and it was all I could do to keep awake and think of you. I knew you were coming. I felt you changing. And I was so scared that man was going to take what we shared away. I didn't want him to do that to me. I felt so guilty for not leaving faster. I can't believe that almost happened to me. He almost...and I can't believe....and I felt his hands...I felt like I was betraying you...like I was a disgrace..." Inuyasha took her shoulders into his hands gently and pulled her up.
"NO! This is not your fault!! Don't you dare believe that! Your are good and blameless in this. You have NOTHING to be guilty or ashamed about! It was only those bastards' fault for doing that! And now they are gone. I won't let anything hurt you ever again. I am always here for you. PLEASE, please don't think it's your fault. God's be damned assholes! I wish I could have killed them again!" Kagome looked into his eyes and felt his protective love and sincerity wash over her and believed him and tried to wrap her mind around the idea it wasn't her fault. She also felt his anger rising similar to when she was being attacked but on a smaller degree. That anger was for her, and she appreciated that more than words could express. She knew he had become full demon in her distress not knowing what would be waiting for him. But she didn't care because, she knew it was to save her. She suddenly felt a bit of worry and shame from her mate that made her focus on him instead of tornado of feelings in herself.
"Inuyasha what is it?" Kagome asked him as he pulled her against his chest.
So, if you're mad, get mad;
Don't hold it all inside,
Come on and talk to me now.
And hey,
What you got to hide?
I get angry too,
Well, I'm a lot like you.
When you're standing at the crossroads
And don't know which path to choose,
Let me come along,
'Cause even if you're wrong,
I'll stand by you,
I'll stand by you,
Won't let nobody hurt you.
I'll stand by you,
Take me in into your darkest hour,
And I'll never desert you,
I'll stand by you.
"Kagome, I...I couldn't control my demon side when I felt you were in danger. I was so angry it took completely over. I'm sorry. I know that I probably scare you now,..." Kagome jerked up from his chest and looked him in the eyes.
"Don't you even be sorry! That anger saved my life! I don't care if your demon half or human! They are all apart of you there for apart of me. You shouldn't have to hide that side, Inuyasha. I could never be afraid of you. Don't try to stop that anger when it comes. I can't deny I didn't want them dead. I felt you changing and I welcomed your wrath on them. They were gonna hurt me...."she said with tears in her eyes.
"Shhh. It's ok mate. I'm here. I'll always protect you."
"And I don't care even if you turn full demon; I'd still be here. I'm not going anywhere, Inuyasha, love."
"I could maybe have done something not so gory once I saw they were only stupid humans....But when I saw you there and could feel your pain, nothing else mattered except killing those bastards who were hurting MY mate!" Every time he thought on it he got angry. It made him wish he could kill them all over again, only slowly.
"I don't care if you had options you did what you thought was right. And whatever the consequences I'll be by your side always. If they wonder why there is a pile of gore in that alley let them ask Sango or me. No matter what happens, there is nothing that anyone could do to make me leave you. I said 'I do' and became apart with all of you no just the parts that are gentle and loving, but the demon side who is fierce and wild too. All of you Inuyasha, I mean that with all my heart." Inuyasha pulled her into a tight hug and buried her face in her long ebony hair. Her scent calmed him. He leaned back and she moved herself to straddle his hips and lay against his chest suddenly tired and drained. He wrapped his arm around her and leaned his head against the tree.
And when, when the night falls on you, baby,
You're feeling all alone,
You won't be on your own.
I'll stand by you,
I'll stand by you,
Won't let nobody hurt you.
I'll stand by you,
Take me in into your darkest hour,
And I'll never desert you.
I'll stand by you.
Kagome's mood began to shift with lack of distraction and he kissed her forehead. She let the tears fall down her cheeks. She felt loved and safe but she still hurt inside from the previous day's events, and she felt scared. Burrowing deeper into his embrace she shook slightly. Inuyasha nuzzled the top of her head with his cheek. Kagome looked up at him suddenly searching for reassurance and something more. "I'm here love, I will always be. No one will hurt you any more." She surprised herself when she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. Inuyasha wasn't however having felt an underlining passion brewing. She had feared that what had happened would have killed all of her passionate feelings for the physical love they shared. But suddenly she needed him, all of him to be one with her. He suspected it was her soul and hearts way of needing to be mended. So he let her kiss him wrapping her arms around him returning what she gave.
"Inuyasha, I'm not sure if I can do this..." He looked deeply into her eyes.
"Love, I'm not going to hurt you ever. I'd die first. Do what you want to, and I'll return what ever you can give." Kagome kissed him again. She suddenly felt safe wrapped in his arms surrounded by the warm glow of his protecting love. She craved the sanctuary they're coupling provided them. The pure raw unrestrained emotions of being completely one with her mate.
Inuyasha pulled them both to their knees and pulled his outer shirt off and laid it on the ground. Inuyasha lay down on his shirt and pulled her down next to him. He looked at her and saw tears in her eyes. "Kagome," he caressed her cheek. "Are you sure? Are you getting scared?"
"Inuyasha, I am more sure that anything in the world. I want you to love me like you always have drowned out the memories. Make me forget the pain and his touch by loving me." Tears fell down her face as Inuyasha took hold of her.
"I do love you my Kagome. And now I'll show you also," He turned over and kissed her with gentle passion slowly deepening the kissing as he let her. Their bodies became intertwined as their desire rose.
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Kagome laid wrapped in his outer red shirt straddling his hips nestled against his chest. Inuyasha sat against a tree, sporting pants, with her lying on top of him, his arms draped around her waist and his cheek was resting against the top of her head. The miko was in a deep slumber while her mate lightly dozed taking in every sound and smell around them. Kagome sat in a haze of amber waves that consumed her frazzled state of being and healed her soul and heart after being one with Inuyasha. He heard rustling coming thru the underbrush from the direction of camp. His eyes popped open in time to see the other four members of their group walking towards them. He tightened his grip on Kagome and looked down to make sure she was covered, which she was. They finally caught sight of the two resting and Sango turned and told Miroku something and then she approached alone, handing Shippo to the monk.
Sango walked up softly to Inuyasha's side looking strait at him. She kneeled next to him. "Is everything ok?" she asked in a bare whisper.
"I think she'll be ok eventually," he sighed in a similar volume to the demon slayer's voice. "But she's on the right track." Sango smiled at her.
"Inuyasha, I think she'll be fine too. She couldn't have asked for a better mate to be by her side thru it." Inuyasha just looked at her a moment. She just smiled and got up and left taking the others with her to fill them in. Inuyasha looked in the direction Sango had walked for a few minutes. He finally smiled thanking her in her mind. He decided he wasn't ready to get up yet or willing to wake Kagome, so he just wrapped his arms more firmly around her and closed his eyes and fell back into a light nap focusing again on healing his mates body, mind, heart, and soul.
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Well, that' it hope you enjoyed it. Please R+R and tell me if you want me to continue you this story cuz I probably could if I had enough incentive ;). Well till laters, LJ