It's finally done my newest addition to my Kou/Kag collection! I have had this plot for a story for well over two years in my head but now it's finally out of my head and on the page!
Now with a more detail version of my summary this story takes place after "Inuyasha - Final Act" Where Kagome now lives permanently in the feudal era and Kouga is mated to Ayame after the defeat of Naraku.
This is just my version of a continuance of that story a few years later a tale of love deception and longing. I hope you enjoy and leave me plenty of reviews to let me know what you think!
So on with the story please enjoy the very first chapter of "Tomorrow's Sorrow"!
Chapter One
Separation
The ring of panicked cries echoed widely followed by the loud clanking of armored spears and man made weapons filled the late autumn air.
Dry gust swept through the crowed flurry of uneasy villagers all surrounding the almost calm form standing before them.
All hushed and fidgeting with rising unease as they waited loudly for the unknown person to react.
Rustling through the fabric of a crimson sun bathed clothing the female priestess widened her stance.
The large oak bow tightly in her steady grasp as her nimble fingers drew the line back a perfectly straight arrow aimed directly ahead into the waiting greenery of the thick forest.
Her brown orbs burned with preparation as the underbrush ahead began to rumble and shake making crisp leaves fall from the bushes soundlessly.
"Here it comes!" A fear laced voice called forward through the crowd.
Then as if freed from the villagers panicked words the undergrowth busted open a serpent like demon launching out from the shadows of the massive trees.
Massive fangs gleaming in arrogant victory as it launched itself at the delicious sight of the human woman before him!
Steadily the female shrine maiden braced herself before her clenched fingers released off the string of the bow, sending the arrow flying forward directly into the demon serpents gaping mouth!
Spiritual purple energy engulfed the arrow as it ripped through the demons opening, merciless its scaled flesh crystallizing instantly into nothing but ash like rubble.
The now nonexistent demon crumbled to the dried grass below fading away into the breeze as if nothing more than fertilizer.
Roars and cheers erupted from behind the still priestess in pure relief and joy that the accursed beast that had plagued their cattle and live stock for so long was now finally destroyed!
"Well done Kagome!" An all to familiar monk chimed approaching the silent woman.
Kagome turned with a smile her brown eyes gleaming in satisfaction towards Miroku now standing at her side.
"I know right?" She cheered proudly
"Your lessons with Kaede have definitely been of benefit to you" Miroku smiled down at her
Kagome tugged her large bow over her priestess attire covered shoulder with a sigh of relief.
It had been far to long since she had been able to slay a demon without interference from others, including her aged teacher.
Everyone seemed to forget that she was now a very powerful priestess, it had been her arrow after all that had finally rid them of the nightmarish plague that was Naraku.
Kagome fought off a laugh at the memory that seemed like a life time ago, and to most people including herself it had been.
Years had flown by in the blink of an eye just like the seasons one day it had been bright summer now here they were at the brink of winter.
The only constant had been her life in Kaede's village with her inseparable comrades.
Who right now were awaiting her and Miroku's return from helping a neighboring farmer with a demon problem.
It was a common enough occurrence, both neighboring villages and farms needing the aid of a well trained priestess, and thanks to Kaede's relentless training she now was.
"Shall we head back?" Miroku asked over the now dispersing crowd that had gathered to watch Kagome slay the demon.
Kagome nodded happily her job was done for the time being Inuyasha should be proud of her unaided victory.
She stepped forward shadowing the monks steady trail of silent footsteps as they headed towards the not to distant village.
Kagome watched as the dry grassy fields gave way to man carved path ways surrounded by low water preserves.
Usually the rippling water was so high it almost flooded the path they currently walked along but seeing as winter was almost among them the water had receded noticeably lower.
Kagome sighed winter had always been a tough season for the village, lack of food and supplies a common occurrence no matter how well they prepared.
On top of that Kaede constantly needed her aid in helping tend to the ill who had become sick due to the harsh change of weather.
Just another duty she had vowed herself to once giving up her life in the present era.
It had definitely been an adjustment at first forsaking all she had ever known for a life along side Inuyasha and her friends but she had grown accustom to it in time.
Now she considered herself a full fledge priestess submerged in the culture and tradition, after all how could she not? Seeing as she had been apart of this time for so very long.
The defeat of Naraku had been years ago and time had healed the horrid wounds he had left behind.
Sango and Miroku now lived happily along side her and Inuyasha in Kaede's village along with their three young children.
Shippo often visited from his training in the mountains to becoming a fully trained fox demon, though he was still just a childish youth at heart.
As for Inuyasha he hadn't changed in the least, still the same old brutish thick headed jerk she had always known.
"You guys back already?" Inuyasha's heated voice called out ahead of them.
Kagome snapped from her thoughts looking forward only now noticing she had traveled all the way back to Kaede's hut.
Inuyasha sitting against the aged walls of their home Sango a few feet away pinning freshly washed clothing on a thin line, her young son strapped to her back while the twins played happily with Kilala's paws and tail.
"It was a simple task, Kagome purified the demon with a single arrow" Miroku smile approaching his welcoming family
"Aunt Kagome!" The twins cheered happily running towards their mothers dearest friend.
Kagome bowed with a smile her bow resting at her side as she met the spiriting toddlers with open arms.
Miroku sighed heavily noticing his daughters preferred to embrace their sum what sergeant aunt than their father.
Kagome held one twins hand while the other she curled a tender arm around hugging gently.
Inuyasha stood up from his firmly slumped in seat walking towards the smiling priestess.
"Its about time all that training with the old crow paid off" He snorted arrogantly referring to all the countless hours Kagome had spent with Kaede in the past few months.
"Inuyasha!" Kagome shot back instantly aggravated by his lack of respect to the absent elder priestess.
"Mommy what's and old crow?" Mi asked innocently towards her not to distant mother.
Sango paused shooting Inuyasha a visible dirty look for making her daughter ask such a question.
The half demon shrugged oblivious to any wrong doing, as he stared ahead blindly.
"Alright girls that's enough playing for one day" Miroku interrupted walking over to the kneeling priestess before scooping up his daughters from her lap.
Kagome handed them over with a smile hearing their wines and pleas of annoyance.
"Daddy no!" Sa protested kicking her small feet against her fathers chest.
Sango met her husband half way lightening his load by pulling Mi to her chest letting Miroku deal with their other still thrashing daughter alone.
Kagome stood up making sure to re-strap her bow back into place, sighing happily as she did so she loved watching the two of them together with their large but still growing family, it gave her a warm homely feeling.
"Come on Kagome we better go tell the old prune what happened with the demon" Inuyasha said interrupted her calming thoughts
Kagome sighed rude references aside she knew he was right, Kaede would want to know she took care of the threat without incident.
"We'll catch up in a little while!" Miroku called over to the already vanishing couple his arms tangled around Sa who was aggressively pulling handfuls of her fathers short hair.
Kagome shook her head with a small laugh walking along side Inuyasha as they walked deeper into the outskirts of the village.
After the cries of childish tantrums and pleads of aid faded away into the autumn air they were left with just each others light breathing for company.
Kagome walked along side Inuyasha peering up at him from under her dark lashes noticing his amber eyes were fixed directly ahead towards the direction they undoubtedly would find Kaede.
Moments like these were so uncommon now during the hectic change of seasons, so rarely they had any alone time together constantly pulled apart from either priestess related duties or demon slaying needs.
Kagome decided she would use this golden opportunity to her advantage, slowly she curled her digits around Inuyasha's limp hand intertwining their fingers together tightly.
Inuyasha peeked an eye over at her still looking sheepishly ahead a few short moments passed before he returned her grasp in slightly greater hold.
Kagome grinned inwardly with victory, even more rare than their moments together were the handful of time they had actually had any form of intimate contact, despite her best efforts.
Even now they still lived in Kaede's hut making intimacy a nonexistent extravagance, much to her dislike.
They had been together for well over a year now and had yet to make any further progress in the intimate direction other than the occasional kiss and hand holding.
Sometimes Kagome wondered if all relationships were like this G rated, she knew they weren't. If they were Sango and Miroku wouldn't have three children already.
Kagome felt her eyes narrow slightly in growing inner conflict there were days she didn't think her and Inuyasha's relationship would ever advance the way she hoped it would.
She felt so consumed by the doubt of their lack of passion that some days she questions his unexpressed feeling for her.
Kagome shook the thought from her mind she wouldn't dwell on that now, they were having some sort of contact at this moment and that was better than none, right?
Just when she was preparing herself to be fully dedicated to their shared gesture Inuyasha slowly retracted his hand away from hers his eyes still facing forward never daring to look down at her.
Kagome felt her pace slow noticeably to a halt in instant disbelief, had she done something to anger him?
Was holding hand too much pressure for him?
Inuyasha slowed turning his head slightly to the side watching as Kagome's eyes sunk to the ground in unknown turmoil.
"Something wrong?" He asked over his shoulder not bothering to slow his still constant pace any further.
Kagome felt humiliation bubble below the surface at the thought that such a simple gesture of affection had been too much for him, just like all the countless times before.
She couldn't bring herself to unleash her growing resentment so forcibly she shook her head from side to side giving him a silent response.
She kicked her feet forward in a noticeably increased pace marching forward until she passed him completely not wanting him to see the look of clear hurt spreading across her soft face.
Why did it always have to be this was? Why did he always have to be so distant? Even to her, the woman who was suppose to be his other half, his confidant.
It was exhausting and every day she felt less and less like trying and just accepting the fact that it would take much more time before they were the relationship she longed for.
Then before the growing thoughts of despair could completely devour her a small unknown whimper brought her back to reality.
Kagome's sandaled covered feet came to an abrupt stop her darken brown orbs staring ahead to find the source of the cry.
There stumbling seemingly blindly ahead was a thin figure, a young boy no more than an early teenager dressed in overly worn clothing stained with dirt and other unknown smears.
His half way parted eyes fixed on her momentarily before fluttering wildly than his disheveled body tripped forward falling lifelessly to the waiting ground below.
Kagome rushed forward instantly closing the distance between her and the strange boy.
Unaffected by her better instincts that this might be some sort of trap she fell to the now still boys side her hand placing gently on his heaving shoulders.
"Hey! Are you alright?" She called down at him falling to her knees at his side.
Inuyasha now at her side towering over her shoulder his amber eyes fixed on the invader in unease.
Kagome's trained eyes scanned the child like body of the boy below her, he was terribly thin a sure sign he hadn't eaten in some time.
His parted lips were cracked and dry from no doubt lack of water Kagome was sure it was a miracle he was still breathing.
Then slowly his dark eyes opened peering up at her pleadingly his trembling lips forcing words out in a hushed whisper.
"P-Please h-help" He coughed before loosing consciousness in her grasp.
Kagome shot a cold stare over her shoulder towards the silent half demon.
"Get him to Kaede!" She ordered all her previous thoughts forgotten in a rush of adrenaline and dread.
A chilling mixture of warm air swirled in heavily with the lighter gust of approaching cold, the twined breeze invaded every visible and unseen crevasse of the mountain face.
The already cool rock growing noticeably colder with the lasting assault of endless wind attacking the countless jagged cliffs and peaks.
Un-Immune to the silent war of heat and cool a lone figure stood on top the highest point watching through solemn eyes the fast approaching sun set that lit the late evening sky with the colors of lighten flames.
The uncountable swirl of colors mirroring in the pool of blue orbs that the unknown figure possessed.
Kouga stood silently on the towering mountain cliffs unaffected by the sheer drop of nothing but massive rocks and stone that lingered below him.
Heights had never had a negative affect on him if anything he enjoyed the solitude they provided, other wolf demons not so eager to scale the rocky walls of the eastern mountains. Giving him with the perfect safe haven from the hectic life of a tribe leader.
Jam packed days of sometimes utter chaos that he constantly had to straighten out whether it be duties needed assigned or problems developing among the pack, everything rested on him.
Kouga sighed into the increasing wind, well not entirely on him.
It was days like this that he missed his once carefree adventures chasing Naraku around the country side.
Endlessly running and exploring new territory all in the pursuit of revenge, that finally in the end he had been granted thanks to the mutt and Kagome.
That seemed like ages ago now, a chapter in a book long closed.
Now his life had become all but routine, waking up to a mountain of hungry wolf's and wolf demons all depending on him for the days hunt.
So rarely he had a moment to himself like he was enjoying now after spending the better part of the day hunting for the tribe and scanning the area for any threat that might approach them unexpectedly.
The life of a leader was never an easy one but he would have it no other way, most demons would kill for his position.
Leader of one of the strongest packs of the wolf demon tribe vast territory all under his rule, and a loyal beautiful mate.
Then as if his subconscious had somehow summoned a feminine shadow forward he felt a firm pair of thin arms curl around his armored waist.
Kouga remained still feeling soft skin press against the exposed flesh of his neck the all to familiar scent of lavender and iris flooding under his nose.
"I thought I would find you up here" A sweet voice hummed against him.
Kouga bowed his head it figured Ayame would find him she had incredible knack for knowing his favorite get away spots.
"Took you long enough" He smiled placing a gentle hand over hers still coiled around his abdomen.
Ayame smiled against him breathing deeply his rich scent of dark rain scented earth and forest pine.
A scent she had come to love more than words could express.
"I was starting to get worried dinners been ready for an hour" She admitted leaning slightly more against him recalling her best effort to make Kouga's favorite dish from the wild boar he had hunted earlier.
Kouga sighed "Sorry, just taking a breather"
"Your not hungry?" She asked surprisingly not upset despite the hours she had spent in the kitchen of their den.
Kouga shook his head silently food wasn't something he craved right now, solitude was more what he longed for but he wouldn't send Ayame away so coldly because he wanted alone time.
Being mated was funny that way making him do certain things he never would have dreamed of doing before, including censor himself from his usual brash behavior.
It was difficult at times but it was for the best accepting Ayame as his mate had been a wise decision, at least from the outside looking in.
Her grandfather led the Northern territory small as they were they were still a fertile land which had provided Kouga a long over due opportunity to unite their clans in a lasting treaty.
Besides any wolf would be grateful to have a mate such as Ayame, she was loyal, beautiful, strong a seemingly perfect fit to his ideal companion.
Tenderly Ayame leaned upward placing a soft kiss on Kouga's exposed neck her lips lingering against his heated bronze skin tantalizingly.
Kouga felt his eyes narrow he had felt that kind of interaction before far to many times to count from his now clearly longing mate.
Even now he could smell her scent intensify with want the longer she pressed herself against him.
"Kouga" She hummed against him sweetly.
Kouga tighten his grasp over her bound hands forcing them to part as his turned to face her, her jade eyes already a shade darker a clear sign of her growing desire.
Another task he had to address as a mated leader making sure his mate was satisfied in every sense of the word.
Kouga fought off a dark chuckle at the thought, did all wolf demons think of making love to their mate a task? He doubted it severely.
He cupped her cheek lightly before dipping his head lowly until his lips claimed hers aggressively.
Ayame welcomed his touch humming against his lips in approval already curling herself tighter into his broad arms.
Kouga could tell by her low moans of increasing base she was enjoying his touch just as she had the first time they had mated years ago.
It was an impossible day to forget after the defeat of Naraku he had returned to power of the eastern caves only to have Ayame and the elder seek him out a few weeks later with the proposal of marriage.
The treaty had been his main motivation to agree knowing it would strength both of their tribes and seeing as Kouga had heard years ago that Kagome was permanently out of the picture with Inuyasha, Ayame seemed like the next best thing.
Kouga growled slightly against her thinking over the past was useless what was done was done and his life was what it was, nothing could change that now.
A bit more motivated than before Kouga deepened the kiss parting her lips with his tongue sensually making her moan in heated enjoyment.
Then a soft chill of invading air partly brought him back to coherent thoughts eager as she was he doubted she wanted to be mated on the rough rock of the mountain peak, not when the soft furs of their bed were so much more preferable.
Silently he retracted from their kiss, before she could mourn the loss of their intimacy she was scooped off the ground and into his arms as he sprinted towards the cliff ledge.
He felt her shudder against him as he launched off the side of the mountain free falling hundreds of feet from the sheer drop.
Kouga had done this far to many times to be affected by the situation that most demons would have died of fright from.
Skillfully he caught on the crescent hold of the rock before sliding down the cliff side all the while holding Ayame tightly in his firm grasp her auburn hair flying wildly around them.
Then after a few well calculated steps and leaps he was down the mountain side and entering one of the countless stone cave entrances into the mountain.
Both were unaffected by the darkness of the tunnel engulfing them their demon eyes capable of seeing through the pitch black regardless.
Inhumanly fast Kouga surged through the maze of turns and passages until he was in the core of the mountain, where his chamber lay.
The massive stone opening to the cave was covered by a large black pelt of a slain demon bear from years ago easily he pushed past it further into the room.
Instantly he was greeted by the dim glowing light of a dying fire no doubt what Ayame had used to cook mere hours ago.
The scent of spices and herbs still clung in the air around the stone fireplace carved in the eastern wall.
Beyond that pushed into one of the farthest corners of the massive cave like room was the mass of silken sheets and soft fur pelts of their bed aligned with countless feather stuffed pillows.
It was an enticing sight after such a trying day but Kouga knew he wouldn't be resting anytime soon.
Unlike humans demons could mate for hours on end without so much as a single break and judging by the way Ayame purred in his pointed ear she was wanting exactly that.
Carefully he walked over to the tangled furs of their bed before kneeling down on the welcoming cool silk.
He laid Ayame down before him, her nimble fingers already tugging at the straps of her own furs and armor eager to discard them from her quickly heating body.
Kouga smirked coyly she never had been one for patience in the bed room it was enjoyable to watch her becoming so hot and bothered.
He watched her silently as she pulled away the fur pelt of her shoulder draping then began heaving the heavy plate of her pink shaded armor over her head.
Kouga aided her tugging at the thick steel before discarding it into the far corner of their room with a loud clank as it made contact with the stone floor.
Obviously wanting Ayame laid herself down onto the silken sheets her fiery hair fanning out over the dark furs of their bed.
Her jade eyes gleaming up at him with longing her parted lips panting slightly with intense shallow breathes.
Kouga hesitated removing his own armor if she was so set on making love than he would make sure she earned every moment of it.
He hovered over her his blue orbs drinking in the enticing sight of her half way naked form.
There was no denying she was an incredibly attractive female, flawless pale skin tight over firm feminine muscles a fine prize for any demon to have.
Tortuously slow he lowered himself over her just enough for his lips to be tantalizingly close to her already perked buds clearly ready and wanting his known touch.
Heatedly he blew gently against her tingling skin sending a shiver up her spine in longing.
"Kouga" She mused desperate to feel him touch her like he had so many times before.
Kouga smirked darkly hearing the sheer want in her voice it was a powerful aphrodisiac but he wanted to torment her just a bit longer before he gave himself to her completely.
Gently he eased himself upward until his lips found hers even through the darkness that engulfed them.
Her lips were already parted wanting to feel his aggressive touch roughly she forced herself into his mouth a war between their tongues beginning each battling for dominance over the other.
Hopelessly she submitted to him after mere seconds of his tortuously hungry touch.
Expanding his victory she felt Kouga's calloused hand begin to stroke the exposed plain of her flat stomach.
His heated touch rising higher and higher against her until his palm engulfed the waiting mounds of her breast.
Ayame shivered against him in response clearly desperate for more.
Complying to her secret plea he massaged her soft flesh roughly taking his time with his each lasting squeeze, his thumb and forefinger finding her swollen buds then pinching them aggressively making her moan loudly against his still dominating lips.
Her scent was becoming all but a lust filled cloud swallowing them both alive with the mixture of hazy perfumed desire.
Kouga was sure this wasn't going to continue much longer before he claimed her completely.
He broke their contact much to Ayame's protest as he rocked back onto his knees his fingers beginning their own task of removing his own heavily armored chest plate.
The final step he had left to conquer before he and Ayame became lost in each other unknown to the outside world.
As his fingers moved swiftly to the second leather strap of his restrains fresh mountain air came flooding into their heated cave bringing with it a new unfamiliar scent.
Kouga paused in his hurried movements the gust carrying under his nose filling his nostrils with the scent of possible approaching danger.
Ayame noticed his stiffened delay even through her lust clouded eyes reluctantly she propped herself up onto her elbows her eyes never leaving her still mate.
"What's wrong?" She asked almost afraid she had done something to upset him, though she was unsure of what.
Kouga's dark eyes fixed on the cave opening before taking in another deep breath of the scent that had so quickly invaded his bed chamber.
No mistaking it he hadn't imagined anything in the heat of his now delayed love making.
"I smell something" He finally admitted down at her his eyes never leaving the cave mouth.
"A demon?" Ayame asked worry and surprise filling her now more level voice.
It wasn't uncommon for rogue demons to attack the mountain in search for food or other unknown reasons but never had one interrupted the two of them in such an intimate position.
Kouga shook his head climbing to his feet his armor already strapped back firmly into place, all traces of his intimate actions vanishing as he did so.
He wasn't sure if this was a rogue demon or not but something was definitely off and he would find out what immediately.
"Stay here" He ordered her knowing she was in no visible shape to parade out into the main den half naked and smelling of unsatisfied arousal.
Ayame never had the chance to protest before Kouga sprinted back out into the maze of tunnels they had just so momentarily emerged from leaving her alone and secretly frustrated.
The scent that had sent him on high alert grew all the stronger as he launched forward into the darkness of the mountain passages.
Effortlessly he turned and jilted through the caverns driven forward blindly but with perfect memory of each curving tunnel etched into his memory.
Finally after a blurred frenzy of time he emerged into the main massive cave of the wolf demon den towering stone cavern leering over him countless scattered bones lined against the walls from fallen prey either he or his wolves had consumed.
The group of males that had been privileged enough not to be currently on guard duty stood up at the sight of him even the partially lazy wolf's climbed to their pawed feet in alert.
"Boss, What's wrong?" One larger male called towards Kouga knowing if he was present in the main den something was amiss.
Kouga ignored the flurry of rising voice as he charged by until he leapt outside into the waiting darkening sky.
He was instantly doused in cool water from the veil of the waterfall permanently shielding the main cave entrance.
His skin tingling with chill as he flew outward onto the waiting cliff peaks the second his feet made contact he sprinted into the direction the still oncoming scent was strongest.
Swiftly he scaled the carved out path along the rock way until the familiar sight of two alerted males standing guard duty along this branch of the mountain path came into view.
Towering a few dozen feet above him Hakkaku and Ginta stood spears clenched in their paired hands looking ahead in unease, no doubt smelling the same unfamiliar scent that had sent him on high alert.
"What's going on!?" Kouga called up to the unsuspecting duo giving away his presence instantly.
"Kouga?" Ginta asked his beady eyes fixing down below on their waiting leader in surprise.
Kouga raised a brow still holding out for a response from his left and right hand men.
"Well?" He snapped losing what little shred of patience he had left.
Hakkaku took a step closer to the cliff ledge they currently stood upon.
"Not sure, the wolves just suddenly got on edge" He admitted eyeing the countless wolves perched upon the rock face their dark intense eyes fixed forward the new scent wafted from.
Kouga growled in aggravation he didn't know why he bothered with these two sometimes it was always so much simpler when he took these types of task on himself.
Aggressively he kicked off the stone path launching forward into the almost night air catching skillfully on the cliff ledge above his gawking companions.
His glowing eyes fixing instantly on the off distance shadowed forms slowly approaching calmly obvious not in a threatening pace.
The rising moon shifted above him providing him with just enough silvery light to glance ahead revealing the small group of huddled figures drawing closer.
Kouga's eyes widen in surprise at the now vivid sight, slowly walking forward was a small group of wolf demons and not just any regular strays.
Kouga recognized the lead male instantly it was a subordinate of the elder of the north, Ayame's grandfathers follower.
"Who are they?" Ginta asked while emerging from Kouga's shadow both he and Hakkaku following their leader up the stone path.
Kouga's eyes never left the unsuspecting group of foreign demons as he replied.
"Northerners" He whispered lowly his mind suddenly flooding with questions as to why this small group would make such a perils journey to the eastern territory.
"You mean Ayame's clan? What are they doing here?" Hakkaku asked in equal surprise and questioning.
"Don't know" Kouga shrugged as his partial response before launching himself off the cliff side effortlessly.
"But I'm going to find out!" He called over his shoulder as he flew towards the stone ground below fearlessly.
The treaty with the North held tightly as long as he and Ayame's marriage remained in tact so this couldn't be about that, this had to be something different, something more serious.
Regardless Kouga had every intention on getting to the source of this unannounced intrusion of his territory, and on his life.
The sun had long set leaving the land below silent and still with the fall of night. Shifting rays of silvery moonlight flooding in small rows on top the aged huts of the partially sleeping village.
Not among the rows of almost identical houses Kaede's stood aside shadowed in the darkness of the towering trees surrounding the further end of her small home.
The warped hut entrance glowing dimly with the lasting light of a burning fire just on the other side of the thin shielding mat hung in the frame.
Countless pairs of eyes watched the flames flicker more brightly as Kaede tossed another small log into the consuming blaze.
"So you've come all the way from the border of the northern mountains?" Kagome asked politely repeating the hushed words they had all just received.
After finding the sum what unconscious boy on the outskirts of the village Kagome had wasted no time having Inuyasha deliver him to Kaede to treat his unknown wounds.
Luckily the almost teenage child hadn't sustained any physical wounds only that of exhaustion which Kaede had quickly treated with a heavy meal and plenty of water.
Only a few moments ago had the strange boy regained consciousness to answer their longing questions.
Now there they all sat Miroku and Sango present as well the children already tucked away asleep with the aid of Kaede.
The thin boy gratefully sipped down another cup of cool water to quench his lasting thirst before replying.
"Yes, my village lies just on the other side" He confessed lowly trying to gather his scattered thoughts.
"That's an awfully long way to travel" Sango whispered lowly knowing that just to reach the northern territory was at least a few weeks journey.
"Indeed, why have you come so far from your home?" Miroku asked sitting at Sango's side on the other side of the cramped hut.
The boy placed his now empty bowl of sloshing water down slowly his body slumped with almost reluctance to answer.
"T-To seek aid for my village" He finally admitted through narrowed eyes.
Kagome placed a calming hand over her lightly thumping heart her eyes fixed on the motionless child through the flames between them.
"Go on" She whispered almost apologetically.
"For the past few months more and more of my fellow villagers have disappeared" He spoke lowly his dark eyes mirroring the flames before him.
The air suddenly became tense in the small hut knowing the lingering in the boy's voice was bound to give more unnerving news.
"At first we thought it was just wary stragglers moving on, but now larger groups are vanishing into the night without a trace" The boy tensed as if forcing the words from his slightly quivering body.
"They just leave?" Kagome asked clearly surprised by the unlikely possibility.
The boy shook his head reluctantly "No, they are being taken"
"Taken?" Inuyasha asked from his firmly planted spot at the hut entrance eager to distant himself from the rest of the leering group.
"Only recently we have discovered the truth, a demon by the name Yokobue has descended from the mountain peaks and into a small dwelling near our home." The boy paused his dark eyes flashing with something menacing, something angry.
"He is a cunning beast he uses the power of a magical flute to lure the unsuspecting away from the village under the cover of night, then he abducts them without so much as a trace." He finished with a heavy tone pent up frustration clear in his small voice.
He took a shaky breath as if forcing himself to continue despite his better instincts.
"A few weeks ago he attempted to abduct my younger sister" He finished heatedly in clear disdain.
"How awful" Kagome whispered saddened by the young boys plight.
"Whoa what do you mean he attempted?" Inuyasha asked sitting up from his resting position on the hut wall his brows arched in confusion.
The boy shot Inuyasha an unknown solemn stare "My sister was drawn from our home by the musical flute but managed to escape when the sun rose"
The boy took another reassuring pause before further explaining "Yokobue's magic only seems to work at night, when we are all vulnerable"
The boy paused looking away from the still staring Inuyasha as if not wanting to linger on the half demons heavy amber gaze.
"Several villagers have ventured towards Yokobue's lair in effort to destroy him, they like all the others haven't been seen since." The boy inhaled a sharp breath his entire thin body tensing as words continued to pour forward.
"My father was one of them" He sighed digging his teeth into his bottom lip as if to stop a sob from erupting outward.
Kagome felt her eyes soften with sorrow her gaze falling to the wooden floor below in sympathy.
"I am so sorry" She whispered lowly.
The boy shook his head in response trying to stop his swelling sadness and replace it with the determination that had driven him from his home and into this foreign land.
"That is why I have traveled so far, my village has heard tale of a half demon of great power who aids lesser villages like ours. Capable of slaying menacing demons with his powerful sword!" The boy bellowed out his desperate eyes falling on the now gawking silver haired dog demon.
"Keh" Inuyasha snorted getting to his feet hurriedly feeling the young child's eyes burn into him.
"Inuyasha?" Kagome asked lowly unsure of what the half demon intended.
"What makes you think I'm so kind of charity?" Inuyasha asked loudly, clearly no hint of sensitivity in his arrogant voice.
"Inuyasha!" Kagome snapped anger pumping its way into her vain at his insensitivity to the boys sad pleas.
Suddenly the boy leapt to his feet before falling back to his knees in a begging gesture before the now standing half demon.
His short cropped hair falling over his face in a dark veil hiding his worried and fear filled eyes.
"Please, I beg you! Rid our village of this accursed demon! Y-You're the only one who can!" He begged weakly at Inuyasha's feet desperate for any sort of salvation the half demon could provide.
"Hey quit bowing!" Inuyasha growled down at the motionless kid instantly flustered with the idea of anyone groveling before him.
"Inuyasha, we can't just ignore what's going on over there" Kagome added getting to her feet her own tone unease with strain at the idea of leaving the northern village to its unknown fate.
"Stop your wining! I never said I wasn't going to help'em out!" Inuyasha growled over at her in defiance making his already kind gesture less generous and more agitating.
"T-Then you'll do it!? You'll slay Yokobue!?" The boy jerked his head up visible unfallen tears welled in the corner of his youthful eyes.
Inuyasha let out a sigh mixed snort folding his arms heavily over his chest in clear frustration.
"Whatever kid" He huffed lowly.
"Oh thank you! Thank you! Thank you!" The boy leapt to his feet in clear blissful joy knowing his prayers had now been answered.
"A journey that far north wont be an easy task" Miroku announced getting to his feet beside his still sitting wife her brown orbs fixed on him intensely.
"I will accompany you, Inuyasha" He vowed sternly
"Miroku?" Sango asked completely caught off guard by her husband bold decision.
"Inuyasha is far to impatient for simple villagers to relate to he will need help reassuring them" Miroku spoke down toward her in an almost convincing tone, but Sango knew better.
"You just want to sneak away for a few days to ogle woman don't you!?" Sango snapped knowing that even though her and Miroku were happy together he still had the same perverted tendency he had before they married.
Miroku instantly forced a nervous laugh passed a forced smile "N-No of course not!" He faintly reassured her.
"Days?" The youthful boy still standing at Inuyasha's side asked as if Sango's words had confused him.
Then suddenly he slapped an alarming hand against his own forehead in disbelief.
"How foolish of me!" He scolded himself harshly.
"What is it?" Kagome asked confused by the boys sudden outburst knowing just moment ago he had been ecstatic.
"The journey north wont take days but months" The boy spoke clearly without so much as a hint of deception.
"Months!?" A chorus of alarmed voices rang out in perfect melody as everyone's surprised gaze fell on the silent child.
The boy quickly explained before continuing developing anymore chaos.
"You seem my village is just on the other side of the Shikai pass, and very soon the pass will close completely with snow" The boy announced lowly.
"It wont reopen until spring" He whispered in dread knowing full well this new information may have just changed the duo's mind.
"Spring!?" Inuyasha shot at the kid in aggravation "You want me to follow you out into the middle of nowhere to help you slay some strange demon than be trapped in a strange land for months!?" Inuyasha roared his voice echoing off the thin wooden walls of the hut making them vibrate with strain.
The boy bowed apologetically "T-The pass may thaw sooner but there's no guarantee"
Kagome was completely silent she hadn't seen this coming just like everyone else staring silently at the motionless child before them.
How could she possibly be without Inuyasha for months, spend the entire winter alone?
The possibility of joining him in such a lingering journey was highly unlikely, this was the time of year Kaede needed her more than ever.
People became ill regularly, constantly needing her healing aid along with her protection against scavenging demons hoping to poach out the winter.
Kaede couldn't possibly do it all alone, strong as she was her age would get the better of her without a doubt if she didn't have help to carry the burden of the villagers.
Still a selfish part of her didn't want to have anything to do with this, she didn't want to agree to have Inuyasha leave the village for such a long unknown amount of time.
He was capable of taking care of himself sure, but would he really agree to leave her so easily for this whole brutal season?
"Inuyasha" Kagome whispered looking up at the silently staring half demon sharing her equal look of worry.
Kaede watching silently as this scene had unfolded before her sternly spoke at the silent foreign villager.
"Please yon lad give us a moment to discuss such a serious decision?" She asked politely in her aged tone.
"O-Of course" The boy bowed before taking a silent seat in the corner of the increasingly uncomfortable hut.
Kagome walked forward towards Inuyasha who already held the mat to the outside open eager to follow her out of the cramped hut.
Kagome was grateful for the fresh breeze that welcomed her out into the waiting night as she turned to face the glaring half demon now standing before her.
His amber eyes much matched her own full of conflicting emotions and uncertainty, it was reassuring to know he secretly felt the same as she did.
"Kagome you can't seriously be thinking I would go though with this?" Inuyasha asked sternly making sure to step away from the hut entrance so his voice wouldn't carry inside the thin walls.
"Inuyasha-" Kagome began her voice heavy with growing sadness.
This wasn't going to be easy on either of them but what other alternative did they have? They couldn't simply leave the northern land to its fate especially when this brave child had ventured hundreds of miles to seek their aid.
It would be unforgivably selfish of her to just refuse so she could feel comfortable with Inuyasha at her side.
After all after the defeat of Naraku she had been forced to live three entire years without so much as a single word to the half demon.
Trapped beyond the reach of the well for a seemingly endless eternity, surly a few months wouldn't be that difficult?
Then again with the lack of intimacy the two currently shared or didn't share it might be more strenuous than before.
"I don't want you to go-" Kagome openly admitted her brown orbs burning down into the dry ground beneath her.
"A-and it is a really long time, but we can't just turn our backs-" Kagome braced herself to continue "These people need help".
"Kagome-" Inuyasha started desperately wanting to protest no part of him wanted this!
To be stripped of Kagome for almost an entire year! For what? Just to slay a demon that had absolutely nothing to do with either of them?
He swallowed the developing dry lump in his throat even if he wanted to refuse he knew Kagome would never allow it.
Like it or not she was in the right on this decision, unselfish as usual much to his growing dislike.
Inuyasha sighed heavily turning slightly away from her not wanting to allow her to see his conflicting emotions buried in his amber orbs.
"What about you?" He asked lowly knowing leaving Kagome to face a harsh winter alone wouldn't be easy at all.
"I'll be fine, after all Miroku and Sango will be with me" Kagome forced a reassuring smile to the surface even though it killed her secretly to do so.
Having her closest friends here to aid her through this difficult time would help ease the loneliness a little but she didn't know if it would be enough.
"Actually just Sango-" Miroku added pushing through the thin mat of Kaede's hut.
"What?" Kagome asked in utter shock Sango had agreed to such a decision.
"Miroku?" Inuyasha raised a suspecting brow as long as they had known each other he knew far to well the monk never did anything out of charity.
"Like I said before I don't trust such a delicate task to just Inuyasha, especially if he will be away for such a long unknown amount of time." Miroku finished his tone almost sincere but they both knew better.
"Oh yeah? And just what does Sango got to say about you skipping out on diaper duty for few months?" Inuyasha snorted in disbelief on how quickly Miroku was willing to get away from his parental responsibilities.
"I actually agree with him" Sango interrupted coming out from behind the veil of the hut entrance.
"Sango?" Kagome asked beyond surprised at her dearest friends announcement.
"It will be difficult-" Sango openly admitted her head bowing slightly in clear sadness the idea of being without her husband for the entire winter not an easy thought to bare.
"But I do think it's best, especially if the two of them are going after a demon" Sango finished her tone noticeably more bold no doubt her years of demon slayer expertise kicking in.
Kagome felt her gaze fall to the ground in partial shame here Sango was so direct and bold with the idea of not having aid with her three children and yet she was feeling completely distraught over just loosing Inuyasha's company for a season.
"But don't you even think about looking at another woman understand!?" Sango's hard voice breaking their silent stares as she glared daggers at her fidgeting husband.
Miroku let out a nervous laugh knowing his wife didn't give hollow threats often.
Kagome smiled lightly now knowing Sango was just as secretly upset as she was, she was just better at hiding it.
"So I guess it's decided then" She smiled up at the still silent half demon.
Inuyasha let out a heavy sigh before pushing back into the now almost empty hut to face the motionless village boy who hadn't moved an inch since their venture out.
His amber eyes hardened before he spoke "Alright kid we'll head out first thing in the morning."
The boys thin face lit up with new admiration and joy as he leapt to his feet in gratitude.
"Oh thank you! Thank you so much!" He cheered before his eyes fell on Kagome now standing at Inuyasha's side.
"Thank you as well my lady!" He gushed.
"Don't mention it" Kagome smiled slightly embarrassed.
Hard as she knew this was going to be at least her conscious was clear knowing she had made the right decision.
After all she and Inuyasha still had one more night together before they had to part, maybe this separation might be the push she had been longing for to deepen their relationship.
Kagome smiled inwardly a slight wave of rushing nerves beginning to run heatedly through her veins, as she shyly glance up towards the obvious half demon.
If tonight went as secretly planned, winter might not seem so bad after all.
Welcomed heated air of the main den entrance seeped through the thick furs of Kouga's greaves and arm bands as he walked back into the massive cavern of the mountain.
Obviously a few of the men dwelling in the entrance had taken it upon themselves to build personal fires to block out the invading cold.
Kouga didn't object after his chilling leaps along the cliff sides to find out who had invaded his territory so boldly the heat was a nice escape from the cool breeze outside.
He was sure the now close net group shadowing his every footstep was relieved as well to be out of the turning weather.
After fast approaching the group of northerners he had spotted earlier he was not any less on edge after finding out who exactly they were.
Leading the group behind him was the one male he had come to know as Roiyaru, Ayame's grandfathers subordinate and left hand man.
He was a young demon much younger than Kouga but he was of stout build that hid that secret quality.
His bronze hair pulled tightly back in a short bun like bind his light skin a shade fairer than Kouga's, his navy shaded armor wrapped in dark brown furs much matching his own.
Kouga hadn't known him personally long only after he and Ayame's mating ceremony were they properly introduced.
Still the pup didn't sit well with him constantly making puppy dog eyes at Ayame.
It was no secret he longed after her, before the ceremony he had went before the elder beginning him to reconsider the proposal between the two.
The elder of course turned him down, what could he possibly offer more than Kouga? He held only the title and rank the elder himself had given while Kouga had earned his position of respect, alone.
After the ceremony was finished and the treaty set firmly in stone he retreated back to the north with the elder, this was his first return visit back to the eastern territory, much to Kouga's dislike.
Even more unsettling he had come alone without the elder only having this small unnamed group of soldiers to escort him from the far off northern territory.
"So just how important is this news if you can't share it with me?" Kouga asked over his shoulder.
Once approaching Roiyaru on the cliff side he had asked him why he had come so unannounced to the east only to receive partial answers if any at all.
The only piece of information he had shared was that he had a message to relay of great importance.
"The elder instructed me to give his message only in Ayame's presence" Roiyaru shot back boldly his azure eyes glowing darker with hidden resentment.
Kouga growled lowly this arrogant jerk better be happy he shared close ties to Ayame's grandfather or else he would find himself and his men tossed out on the mountain side to freeze.
He heard Ginta give a nervous laugh at his side both he and Hakkaku sensing their leaders building frustration.
Ignorant as the two of them were they knew Kouga just about as well as anyone could, they defiantly knew his temper better though.
Partially distracting himself from his growing aggravation he watched as the group of huddled males ahead parted quickly allowing Ayame to come charging forward.
Her armor and furs fasten securely back into place hiding every trace of their almost love making from the countless gawking eyes.
"Kouga-" She started in confusion, Kouga wasn't surprised she hadn't been clued in at all as to what had occurred since he left her behind in the cave.
The moment her jade eyes fixed on the figure standing silently behind her mate her face lit up with a whole new emotion.
"Roiyaru? Is that you?" She whispered in disbelief
Roiyaru arrogantly stepped ahead of Kouga with a smile placed on his somewhat handsome lips. His dark navy eyes fixed only ahead on the motionless female wolf.
"Ayame" He whispered happily his tone noticeably softer than before.
Her name broke her paralyzed state as she launched forward instantly she flew towards the waiting wolf demon wrapping her arms around his neck in a welcoming hug.
Her motives driven purely by happiness to see such a long time friend, obvious as his feeling towards her were she didn't return them.
Her heart belonged to Kouga and him alone, wolf demons were forged that way. Once finding their true love they were incapable of loving any other, and she had found hers.
Roiyaru was a bit taken back by her sudden unexpected actions but welcomed them instantly tightening his own arms around her slim armored waist.
Kouga folded his arms across his chest his blue irises rolling in annoyance.
The pup didn't have a chance competing with him even if he wasn't half the wolf demon Kouga was, Ayame would never go for him which is exactly why he didn't find their intimate gesture a threat in the least.
Most wolf demons were insanely jealous over their mate's but not Kouga, he couldn't explain it but Ayame with another man just didn't phase him like it should.
Breaking him from his train of thought Ayame pulled back slightly, Roiyaru clearly reluctantly allowing her from his firm grasp.
"What are you doing here?" She asked a mixture of confusion and surprise in her up beat tone.
"Exactly what I want to know" Kouga sneered at the silent weaker wolf demon.
Roiyaru shot Kouga a defiant glare before replying towards Ayame, and her alone.
"We've come to speak to you" He whispered down at her his voice all but dripping sincerity.
"We?" Ayame asked her jade eyes blinking in uncertainty until she looked around Roiyaru to the silently waiting small group of wolf demons who had accompanied him.
She recognized them instantly as her grandfathers personal guards making her wonder even further.
"Speak to me about what?" She asked confusion laced in her tone but she quickly laughed it off at the idea of her dear friend traveling so far to give a simple message.
"It must be important to come all the way from the north" She laughed sweetly up at him.
She stepped back putting a bit more distance between the two of them before stepping towards Kouga unknowingly thinking he might be upset about her brash behavior towards Roiyaru.
"How's grandpa?" She asked genially curious as to the well being of her grandfather.
Roiyaru's tender gaze darkened at bit at her unanswered question making her heart sink deeply into a growing pit in her stomach.
"Is there a place we can speak more privately?" He asked more directly towards Kouga.
Kouga uncrossed his arms feeling the seriousness of the situation set in, whatever this important message was he knew it was not going to be good news.
He watched as Ayame's eyes filled with worry her gaze instinctively falling on him for guidance.
Kouga gripped her hand tenderly before leading her forward into a more private branch of the main den, a meeting room of sorts away from prying ears.
Ayame welcomed his touch following after him obediently as he led the small group ahead further into the mountain tunnels.
After a few silent moments they entered the small chamber placed deeper into the cave base.
It was a round stone room lined with lit torches, on the floor small circular fur pelts placed on either side of the narrow stone to provide more comfortable sitting arraignments.
Kouga folded his legs beneath him falling on the small fur softly Ayame quickly taking her place at his side, Ginta and Hakkaku followed suit sitting on either side of the huddle couple.
Roiyaru and a now more thin group of his men sat on the opposite side their heads bowed respectively as Roiyaru stared forward.
"Roiyaru, what going on? You're starting to scare me." Ayame openly admitted her grip on Kouga's hand tightening with growing fear of what might have occurred in the northern territory.
"Ayame" Roiyaru sighed heavily his dark eyes fixed on her tenderly.
"I wish it wasn't so, but the elder has fallen ill, gravely ill" He whispered sorrowfully
"Ill? What do you mean ill?" Kouga asked through shocked filled eyes it was uncommon to say the least for wolf demons to succumb to ailment no matter how severe.
Then again the elder was much older than any other wolf demon he currently knew no surprise his body would eventually begin to shut down.
"The elder is strong but even he can't seem to overcome this sickness, the healers have done all they can to aid him, but he grows weaker every day." Roiyaru voice was barely above a whisper were it not for their heighten hearing they might not have been able to understand him.
Ayame felt a whimper escape her parted lips, instantly she turned to Kouga pressing herself to her chest burying her heated face against his cool armored chest.
Kouga could tell by her now shuddering form and faint scent she was crying soundlessly.
Softly he wrapped a strong arm around her waist holding her more tightly against him, news like this couldn't have been easy for her to take.
The elder was her only living relative losing him would weigh heavily on her, and he didn't know what he could do to help.
"Oh grandpa" She wept against him curling against him further.
He placed a firm hand on her trembling back rubbing her tenderly, physical contact was the best method he knew of to heal devastating emotional wounds.
Roiyaru watched through narrow hurt filled eyes as the woman he cared for above all others took refuge in the arms of her mate.
Secretly envious of their wordless connection, a connection he desperately wished to have himself.
"Is that all you've come to tell us" Kouga asked sharply a bit on edge that Roiyaru had barged into their territory with such distressing words.
There had to have been other methods he could have taken instead of being so blunt.
Roiyaru shook his head slightly before continuing making Kouga's impatience grow all the more.
"No, the reason the elder sent me was to escort you and Ayame back to the northern territory" Roiyaru paused before slightly glancing towards Ayame in sadness.
"He wishes to Ayame before-" His voice fell short he didn't want to distress Ayame any further than he already had been forced too.
"This close to winter?" Ginta asked his tone more surprised than saddened, why had the elder made such an impossible request?
Hakkaku shared his comrades distress "Does he just expect Kouga to abandon the east?" He asked in disbelief.
Winter was one of the hardest seasons among the wolf demons, food was often in scarce supply as was water and fertile unfrozen land.
The entire mountain depended on a strong leader like Kouga to guide them through it as he had countless times before.
If he went to the north now there was no possible way of him returning before the first snow fall.
Especially since the northern mountain pass would be closed up by snow if it hadn't already.
"The elder expects nothing!" Roiyaru snapped at them in instant aggravation of their lack of sensitivity.
"He just wishes to see his granddaughter before his passing, surely this matter is more important than a few months without your leader" He questioned his dark eyes falling towards Kouga in wonder if the eastern leader would put his mate before his pack like he would.
"Kouga" Ayame sniffed looking up at him through tear filled jade eyes wanting his response as well.
Kouga sighed heavily, he like all the others knew if he did decide to leave he would be trapped in the northern territory for the entire winter if not longer.
His tribe was strong no doubt but could they last an entire season without him? It was a troubling question but Kouga knew secretly he had no other choice.
Ayame was his mate and she needed this, to see her ancestor before his departure to the after life.
If he denied her this he was sure it would come back to haunt him, not to mention his pride would never allow him to turn away from something this serious.
"He's right" Kouga whispered down at her in agreement.
Ayame's eyes deepened with gratitude instantly curling herself back into his still tightened arms with relief.
"Kouga-" Ginta started in worry thinking Kouga might not have thought this entire situation out thoroughly.
Kouga shot him a stern silencing glance "I'll get things in order before we go, you two can handle a few months without me."
Both Ginta and Hakkaku wanted to protest but they knew Kouga's mind was made up.
If he was leaving towards the north they knew all to well they were the only demons he trusted enough to handle the pack through this difficult time.
They shared a worried glance towards each other secretly praying his trust wasn't misplaced.
"Very well, we will depart as soon as your able" Roiyaru announced secretly surprised by Kouga's response.
Kouga nodded in agreement before staring down at his still crying mate.
This was important both as a leader and as a mated demon but secretly he prayed he wasn't making a very costly mistake.
The breeze whispering through the short grass was a calming melody, the strands of green glowing silver with the looming moon above it was an enticing sight.
The sweet scent of the forest wafting its way under Kagome's porcelain face as she gazed ahead over the vast seemingly endless hill side.
This lasting day had seemed like a dream a feverish dream of rash decisions and lingering thoughts.
Kagome found it hard to wrap her head around all of what had happened, being here alone on the hills outside the village was a nice way to calm her scattered nerves.
Inuyasha had spent the better part of the day preparing for the long journey ahead with Miroku leaving Kagome alone with her growing concerns.
She had thought this separation would aid her in her efforts to become more intimate with Inuyasha but all it had done was drive them further apart.
He was far to busy to even notice she had snuck away to the serenity of the outer village.
This winter was going to be a difficult one indeed, that realization only made her heart sink further into her chest.
"What are you doing out here?" A surprisingly calm voice called from over the hill side she currently sat on.
Kagome felt her head lift up in sheer shock no other than Inuyasha had been able to approach her without her sensing his demonic aura, she was in deeper concentration than she first thought.
"Inuyasha?" She asked revealing her surprise watching as he effortlessly sat by her side on the swaying grass.
"Nothing just thinking" She admitted forcing her gaze ahead not wanting to give away her growing distress.
"Yeah? About what?" He asked obviously not noticing her defensive posture.
Her knees pulled tightly to her chest her arms wrapped protectively around her shins locking them into place.
"About us" She admitted quietly her chin sinking onto her knees as she continued to stare ahead.
"You mean about me leaving?" He asked his dark brow raised in questioning.
Kagome felt her grip on her legs tighten as she sighed out a heavy response.
"Yes" She breathed.
Inuyasha bowed his head down at the wafting grass watching it sway beside his bare feet.
"You know I don't want to go" He whispered hoping she believed his sincere words, leaving her was the last thing he wanted.
To be forced to spend countless days without so much as hearing a single word from her, not to mention the constant threat of demons attacking the village.
He may not look it but this entire situation had made him a nervous wreck.
"I know that, it just-" Kagome hesitated her courage to admit to Inuyasha her true feelings beginning to fade.
How was she just suppose to blurt out she wanted more intimacy? She wanted to be made a full woman, his woman before he departed to the north.
To even begin discussing this topic made her blood race faster with unease, this was beyond difficult!
Why did she have to do this? Why couldn't he just see she wanted him? Didn't he feel the same?
"Just what?" Inuyasha asked noticing the delay in her increasingly shaky voice.
"Inuyasha, why haven't we-" Kagome swallowed the developing lump in throat threatening the choke her words before she could from them.
"Why haven't we what?" Inuyasha asked turning to face the now blushing girl at his side.
This was unlike her, to be so secretive about her feelings. Was something really troubling her this deeply?
"We've been together so long now and, this separation has brought up some questions of mine." She whispered her voice so low even Inuyasha had to struggle to hear it.
"What kind of questions? What are you getting at?" Inuyasha snapped his voice much sharper than before.
Why was she doing this? If there was something she wanted to say then spit it out, this dodging conversation was getting old fast.
Kagome loosed her grip on her legs letting them slide out slowly before her, her breath in slow rasp trying to regain her depleting nerves.
This shouldn't be this hard, all she needed was his honest reaction his honest feelings. Then she could get this off her chest without any further hesitation.
"Inuyasha, you love me right?" She asked shyly turning to face him since the start of their somewhat awkward conversation.
"Where is this coming from?" Inuyasha shot back quickly growing increasingly uncomfortable by the direction this conversation was taking.
"Why can't you just answer?" Kagome snapped instantly frustrated by his aggressive behavior.
Why was this so hard for him? Why did every conversation about their relationship have to be a fight? It was getting beyond exhausting at this point!
"Why do you need me to!?" He barked in response, had this approaching separation brought this up? Why now?
Kagome sighed turning away from the partially fuming dog demon this wasn't going the way she wanted at all.
She didn't want to spend their last night together like this, bickering back and forth senselessly.
She just didn't know how to make her feelings clear in a way he would understand a way that didn't make her seem pushy or demanding.
"Inuyasha" She sighed heavily her brown eyes gleaming slightly with the reflection of the over hanging moon.
"I just want to know-" She took a steadying breath "Why haven't we been…intimate"
She took a daring glance over at the silent half demon his amber eyes wide with a look of disbelief.
"Kagome?" He muttered out half incoherently.
Kagome ducked her head instantly in shame burying her heated face in her cool palms trying to hide the look of embarrassment beginning to consume her.
"Oh forget it, this is humiliating!" She whispered into her hands, it was obvious she had went about this situation all wrong.
Maybe she should have just kept her mouth shut, if their relationship wasn't where she wanted it to be than her only choice was to be more patient.
She could do that, right?
"Kagome-" Inuyasha sighed watching her begin to crumble in front of him he hadn't expected this from her, not at all.
He daringly edged just a bit closer to her hoping this small gesture might ease some of the tension growing between them.
"How long have you felt like this?" He asked genuinely curious how long she had bottled these feelings.
It was true he wasn't as passionate to her as other men might be, but he had his reasons.
Unlike most men he shared a difficult past, a past that still weighed heavily on his future.
It wasn't something he could change over night, it would take time, lots of time.
Kagome shrugged her slumped shoulders "I don't know, awhile I guess" She replied openly.
It wasn't something she could put into a time frame, these feelings had just developed over time.
"I see Miroku and Sango and how happy they are, and I cant help but wonder why we aren't the same." Her tone was low and saddened
Watching Miroku and Sango gave her a glimpse into what she wanted so badly, just a simple kiss or hug in the middle of the day would make a world of difference.
She wasn't asking for children or something rash like that she just wanted to know he felt, attracted to her.
"You're not happy with me?" Inuyasha asked his voice clearly laced with hurt.
Kagome turned to face him her eyes wide and open with reassurance.
"No, of course I am!" She defended not wanting him to take this conversation more serious than she had meant.
Inuyasha turned from her slowly his amber eyes fixed on the starless sky above.
He knew this was bound to come up eventually he just didn't figure it would be this soon.
"Do you want the truth?" He asked his amber eyes still glowing ahead to the empty abyss above them.
Kagome breathed deeply trying to gather her jilting nerves "Yes" She whispered.
"Honestly, I'm afraid" His tone filled with sincerity and truth not even a hint of deception seeping through.
"Afraid?" Kagome thought out loud, what could he possibly be afraid of?
She had seen him battle some of the most heinous monstrous demons without so much as a hint of fear and now she was suppose to believe a little thing like deepening their relationship frightened him.
"Kagome, the only person I was ever with in that way died" He paused a flash of something almost ghostly gleaming across his amber gaze.
Kagome felt her chest tighten at the mention of the unnamed priestess, it had been so long since either of them had mentioned her Kagome had almost pushed her entire existence into the far corners of her subconscious.
Kagome felt her hands ball into her palm even now just mentioning her brought with it the lingering hurt it always had.
Maybe that is why Inuyasha had always been careful not to mention her in her presence, he knew the secret damage it caused.
"I just, I don't want to go through that again" He whispered his gleaming orbs falling on her silent form.
Kagome was speechless she didn't know what to say after absorbing such heavy words like that.
All her carefully thought out responses scattering into a million unrecognizable pieces leaving her helpless.
What could she say in her defense? Nothing absolutely nothing, even after a certain priestess demise her presence still haunted their relationship like a nameless phantom.
Sometimes Kagome feared Inuyasha's heart would never fully heal from the gaping hole she had left behind. A hole no matter how much she tried she knew she could never completely fill.
Him saying what he just had, made her unknown efforts seem all the more futile.
To say this was hard to bare was a server underestimate, and it made her see something difficult as it was clearly.
Inuyasha loved her sure, but not enough to get that attached, that emotionally connected.
Maybe because it was the little part of himself that only Kikyo had, and he wanted to hold onto that just awhile longer.
Kagome felt the threat of tears sting at her eyes she couldn't bare to let Inuyasha see how much his words had upset her.
"I see" She whispered slowly climbing to her feet hoping to not give away her distress.
Inuyasha looked up at her fear his words had unknowingly hurt her more than he first realized.
"Don't go" He asked trying his best to sound sincere.
"No" Kagome shook her head forcing her bangs to cover her bleared vision.
"I think we've said enough alright?" She shot back turning away from him making him realize she wouldn't be persuaded to stay at his side longer than she had to.
She waited until she took the first marching step forward away from him before she allowed the fresh streams of stress filled tears to fall down her heated cheek.
"I'll see you in a few months" She whispered down at herself her voice dying on the increasing wind fast approaching.
"Kagome!" She heard him call after her but she couldn't stand to be near him, not right now, not when she was so venerable, so hurt.
She had seen this separation as a curse an unwanted strain on their already strained relationship but now it was so much more than that.
Maybe it was a blessing for both their sides, for her to forcefully grow some much needed lasting patience and for him to hopefully see how much he needed her.
Either way this winter was going to be unforgettable, for better or worse.
Cut short again! Dang you see the chapters feel so close net and well put together until I get them down on the computer than they are way to long and I am forced to break them up, like this chapter!
Oh well I will start working on the next update as soon as I can but for now I really hope you enjoy the story so far!
Oh and before I forget just a slight author note the new character "Roiyaru" I didn't just pull him out of thin air he is not my personal OC he was actually featured in an episode of Inuyasha Episode 102.
He was a member if Ayame's grandfathers pack who helped her escape from the "Band of Seven" I thought he would be a nice addition to the story, however I did give him a name since he didn't say his during the episode.
Also another note I in no way condone Kou/Aya I hate this couple! But, you cant really just have Kouga never touch his mate after all it wouldn't be in character of him, no matter how much I dislike it!
See ya Soon
