A/N: I originally wrote this fanfiction in 2003. It was titled Heart of a Wolf. I took it down from FFN after I revised it into an original novel. I was able to restore the original version from an old floppy disc and will be condensing the 22 chapters to 6 and posting them over the next month. I'm pretty impressed by my growth as a writer as this was one of my earlier works. The editing process is both embarrassing and amusing. I'll be eliminating one of my original characters to give Kagura and Kikyo more prominent roles. It helps that I've actually been to Japan now and since the Inuyasha series was competed, unlike when I originally wrote this fanfic. May this story continue to entertain the Inuyasha fans of Kagome and Koga.
1/20/19
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Full Moon, Full Heart
Summary: Set in modern day, Kagome allows herself to be wooed by a rich, mysterious Naraku. Turns out he's a werewolf and now so is she. Koga, prince of wolves, saves her. Her best friend, Inuyasha, is the best werewolf hunter in the world. Inuyasha and Naraku are hunting Kagome and only Koga and his ally, Sesshomaru can save her. Maybe she'll be the one to save them all.
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PART I:
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Not even in her worst nightmares would Kagome Higarashi have found herself in such a predicament. She was being hunted. It was the middle of the night and pouring cold rain while the full moon's light illuminated the darkness. She ran an all four legs, muscles still quivered from the trauma of the transformation.
A week ago, she had ignored the warnings of her best friend, Inuyasha. He had not wanted her to go out with that rich, dangerously seductive Naraku. She had figured his disapproval was based upon jealousy. She never knew just how right he was about the monster.
Naraku had taken her out to the most expensive restaurant in all of Japan. His plate of Kobe beef cost more than her month's salary. He had showered her with gifts and complements over the last few weeks. He was devilishly handsome in his designer suit with his long, raven hair.
And most excitedly — he was interested in her! Kagome wasn't anyone special. Her family ran an old Shinto shrine in the more rural outskirts of Tokyo. As soon as she'd finished school, she'd left for the big city and started working at a Youth Center. Helping those in need was in her DNA, but she was no priestess. There was no such thing as evil spirits and youkai. She knew her grandfather believed, but she didn't.
Kagome had picked the most scandalous outfit in her closet for her date. It was a flirty red dress, and she complimented it with curly hair cascading down her back, and piercing hazel eyes that promised mischief with just the right amount of eyeliner. She chose a pair of ruby earrings that dangled in the shape of stars — a gift from Naraku.
Foolishly, she thought the look in Naraku's dark eyes was nothing more than mischief — he offered nothing but lies.
After dancing until the last call at a nearby club, they were walking down an alley. He had been annoyed with any man that appreciated her looks too noticeably. She hadn't done anything to gain their attention, but she did dress up for him. If she did it right, others should have appreciated it. Whatever innocent flirtations happened then mattered little, now that she was running for her life.
Naraku had been angry and once they were alone in the alley, he showed his true colors. He had slammed her against the bricks lining the alley way and trapped her body between his arms. He leaned close, his lips brushed against her ear causing her earrings to tickle her neck. "My Beauty, you seem to attract too much attention. I think I would prefer to have you all to myself," he whispered, sending chills down her spine.
She had been confused when he pulled back. His eyes shone with anger. "Naraku, are you okay? What are you talking about?" A hint of fear creeped into her voice.
Naraku flashed a chilling smile. "After this, no one will want you, but me. No one will love you, but me. I will be the only one who will accept you, Beauty" Naraku leaned forward and fast as lightning he sank fangs into the flesh of her throat.
The pain had been so intense— akin to molten lava racing through her veins. She couldn't think, let alone scream. The only thought forming in her mind was, Where did he get fangs?
Naraku pulled back with a satisfied leer and then licked the blood off his fangs. "In seven days, you will become a creature of the night."
"Vampire?" Kagome croaked in terror.
Naraku laughed softly. "Kukuku, you are not one of those monstrosities. You are now a lycanthrope. I shall find you on the light of the full moon." He started to back away, his face covered in shadows. "A word of warning— I wouldn't tell your friends about this new development in our relationship."
The terror was gone, replaced with fierce anger and indignation as she realized the back of her favorite dress was ruined from the filth on the bricks and the front was wet with blood. Anger was good.
"Yeah, right. My psycho date just decided to bite a chunk out of my neck and turn me into a werewolf. I think I'd like to tell my friends, or at least the police so that we can lock you up in the looney bin where you belong." She poked him in the chest, ignoring the jab of pain in her finger as he was immobile. "If you were a werewolf, I've seen Silver Bullet. " She recalled the Stephen King movie from a horror movie binge-watching session with her best friend Inuyasha. "You kill the werewolf that sired you and you become human again."
Naraku grasped her shoulders tightly and forced a brutally possessive kiss upon her. "I warn you for your protection. If you tell them of this, you will be the one slaughtered. I am the only one who can understand."
Then he was gone, leaving behind a gust of cold wind to chill her to the bone.
Kagome reached for her purse to call the police, but she had left her iPhone at home — again. She wiped the back of her hand across her lips, fluffed out her hair, and started to make her way to the bus stop. It had been a terrible date, but Tokyo had one of the best public transports in the world. She could get home without Mr Psychopath. Of course, she could have called Inuyasha, but she didn't want to deal with his condescension.
Kagome had felt fine all week, until the next full moon rose.
The only plus side to the whole nightmare — she didn't look like the hideous humanoid wolf monster from Silver Bullet. She looked like a normal wolf — covered with fur, long tail, four legs, and a snout.
Unfortunately, wolves didn't live in down-town Tokyo and weren't hunted down by militant parties.
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OoO
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"Is there any update on Naraku's whereabouts?" Koga asked. He was surrounded by several of his pack mates. He was the prince of his tribe and field leader. It was at once a social position and yet very lonely. As heir to the kingdom, he had no true friends, but countless loyal subjects.
"A week ago, one of our brothers saw him take a mortal woman on a date to a club and then disappear into an alley. He believes that he may have bitten her," Ginta answered, rubbing the back of his neck nervously.
"What?! Why didn't anyone tell me this before?" Koga demanded with his tail swishing angrily.
Ginta suddenly found the ground very interesting. "Our brother kind of forgot about the incident until a few hours ago. You know how Ue is. When his stomach is empty, he gets distracted."
Koga groaned. "This is what I get for allowing a wolf who's name means 'hunger' to scout on his own." He closed his eyes and sighed, striving to control his temper. He'd been trying to control his temper for thousands of years, but maybe he would succeed one day. "I suppose that part doesn't matter now," Kouga sighed. "What does matter, is Naraku has broken every code that we have struggled to uphold for the last few centuries. It is forbidden to transform a human into one of us." An image of the suffering and carnage their tribe went through hundreds of years ago when Naraku last made the same mistake flashed through his mind. "We must find this woman."
"It's the full moon tonight. She won't be able to control the transformation. Hakkaku and I would gladly agree to help you seek her out," Ginta answered.
Koga nodded. "So be it. Fetch Hakkaku and meet me at the gates within five minutes. We have little time to lose."
"What about us?" Squirrel-chaser asked, gesturing to himself and the other trio of young pups. Koga had a hard time taking these young wolves seriously. Their chosen names didn't inspire confidence.
"Go find Ue, let him know I'm displeased about his hunger getting in the way of his duties. From now on, he's to report to , Lady Chou, head of food supplies. And you are all still too young to be out under the full moon. Also, see to whatever my aunt needs. She's always needing more eager helpers."
"We can help you," Squirrel-chaser whined.
"We are only as strong as our hungriest belly," Koga assured him. He bumped against his shoulder playfully. "Trust me, making sure everyone is fed is important."
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OoO
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"We are gaining on the beast." Sango answered with grim satisfaction, tracing her fingers over a paw-print in the soft mud. More than any of them, she loved the hunt.
Inuyasha was puzzled by the wolf's odd behavior. There was no pattern to its run. Was it lost? Did it not know where to go? Was it ill? Was the storm affecting its innate navigational system? "This beast will be traveling in circles if it keeps up this run," Inuyasha declared. He ran his fingers through his long silver colored hair. He looked over at their team's priest for confirmation.
"It's already going in circles, it was in this area before the rain started. I also believe we are seeking a female wolf." Miroku answered with a meditative expression as the rain continued to pour. He shook his head, only to shower Sango with the water that was previously locked into his short ponytail.
Sango glared at him with a sour expression. "How do you know it's a female?"
Miroku grinned back mischievously. "Sango, do not be jealous over a little female werewolf. You are still my only love." He shrugged, the priest beads wrapped around his wrist clicking together. "I can just tell these things."
"Keh, of course you would be able to track a woman a mile away. That's probably why she's running away," Inuyasha teased. Fortunately, the creature had gone a fair distance from Tokyo. Only 136 kilometers separated Tokyo from Mount Fuji and a werewolf could make that run in less than two hours.
It was hard to focus on the wayward wolf. Packs were both easier and harder to track. The prints were easier to find, but the pack magic made them near invisible. Inuyasha, however, was
worried about his friend, maybe girlfriend, definitely more than a friend— Kagome.
He had called her earlier that evening only to get an out of service range message on her phone. Usually she was home on Thursday night's because she always had to be at work early on Fridays. He was worried that she had gone out with that Naraku character again. Naraku was bad news. Of course, he didn't have proof that Naraku was a bad dude, but his gut told him he was shady and toxic.
Inuyasha was descendant from an Inu-youkai. His instincts made him a superb hunter, but it also made him a bit of a caustic personality.
That caustic personality made it hard for him to connect with others outside of his field of expertise. It's what made his friendship with Kagome so important to him. She didn't know why he was so ornery, yet she cared for him anyway.
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OoO
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Kagome couldn't run any more. She wasn't a runner. The longest race she'd ever done was a 10K years ago and she hated every minute of it.
Her instincts screamed at her to leave the city. Without knowing where she was going, other than the Southeasterly direction, she dashed as far as her paws could take her.
Eventually, she collapsed near a fallen tree. Her cold nose brushed against the moss covering it, tickling and triggering a sneeze. She was a big, wet-dog creature. Her fur stank like wet-dog. Her sense of smell was overwhelmed by too many things to even try to identify them all. Her bones still ached from the transformation and now her muscles were useless cords of meat.
She could go no farther.
A twig snapped behind her. Wearily, she turned to face the direction of the sound. A large black wolf approached. It had eyes so dark they looked black and also very familiar.
"Right on time, Beautiful. You are even more beautiful like this, Kagome." Naraku approached with the sure step of a skilled predator. "You headed straight for the mountain. That's superb."
"Why?" Kagome asked — her emotions warred between exhaustion, scared, and angry. Her language wasn't any human language, yet she knew he understood, same as she had understood him.
"Because he's a sick bastard that has no regard for the rules," a new voice answered. This one belonging to a wolf with a gorgeous coat of brown fur and piercing blue eyes. He led two other wolves that were much smaller than himself. He met her gaze.
'God, she's beautiful,' Koga thought to himself as he stared at the black furred she-wolf. He'd never had such a strong, instantaneous attraction to anyone before. The intensity worried him and pissed him off at the same time. He began to growl angrily. How dare Naraku bring such a curse to an innocent- again! He directed his gaze at the traitor before he scared her with his wrath.
"Your highness, what a pleasure it is to see you again," Naraku greeted with a venomous sneer. "Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to continue this conversation with my new mate."
Kagome's jaw slackened at the declaration. "His mate?" she thought.
Kouga growled again. "You are not worthy to claim such a prize."
As Koga and Naraku began to circle one another, the other two wolves stood flanking Kagome on either side.
"What is going on?" Kagome asked.
"It is against tribal laws to convert a human to a wolf. We realize you were taken against your will and are here to offer you help in adjusting to your new life." The tan wolf answered. "I'm Ginta and he's Hakkaku," he said gesturing to the chestnut colored wolf.
"New life? But, can't that brown wolf just kill Naraku? Because he's the one that sired me, " Kagome said. "If he dies, then I'll be human again."
"That's not entirely accurate. Even if Naraku was killed, you would remain wolf. I'm afraid there is no cure. But we can help you at least to learn how to cope," Hakkaku answered.
"So you're Genta," she said looking at the tan wolf. "And you're Hakkaku," she said towards the other. "Who is he?" She stared at the large sable brown wolf that challenged Naraku.
"That's our prince — Koga," Hakkaku answered.
"Prince?" Kagome echoed. Was she trapped in some sort of Disney nightmare? Would seven dwarves and a dragon emerge from the forest next? Maybe a flying carpet?
"We'll have more time to explain later. Something is coming." Ginta sniffed the air. " Three humans — hunters — are quickly approaching."
Koga and Naraku stopped circling one another and as one glanced in the direction of the woods of the three hunters.
"They're getting faster," Naraku mused. He looked past Koga. "Worry not, Kagome. I shall be back with you soon. I'll leave you to my illustrious prince in the mean time, it would be disrespectful otherwise." Then he disappeared.
He didn't run away, he literally vanished into thin air.
Koga grunted in frustration. "I hate when he does that." He hurried back to the other three. "We must leave now. We have unwanted visitors. Can you run?" Koga asked her with a brow furrowed either in concern or annoyance. His emotions were hard to read. Or maybe she just didn't know how to interpret animal facial expressions.
"I've been running all night," Kagome whimpered in fatigue. "I don't know that I can go very far."
Koga stretched his forelegs. "Hope onto my back. I'll carry you." When she didn't move he glared at her over his shoulder. "You have two other options — die at the hands of the approaching hunters or be dragged by the scruff of your neck."
Kagome didn't waste any more time. She clung to Kouga for dear life as their small party left the forest at a superhuman speed. She buried her foreign muzzle into the crook of this prince's neck and tried not to think about how her life wound never be normal again.
A short while later, perhaps half an hour, the group arrived at the tribal dwellings deep within the woods where no human could find it — for it was hidden by many ancient spells. Tunnels led them deep into the earth under Mount Fuji and into a realm not tread upon by mortals.
Koga arched his back, helping Kagome slide off. "It would be unseemly for me to carry you from this point." He left unsaid the reminder that he was royalty to his people, not a beast of burden. "There is no more danger," he explained. "Follow me."
He led her down a maze of passages into a spacious room with exquisite tapestries and paintings on the wall, a huge four-poster bed of deep mahogany wood, and bright white linen and pillows. "This is my room. You can rest here without being bothered."
He turned on various lamps using his paws and snout. "Our electricity is powered by wind and hydraulics. Unfortunately, the is no phone, internet, or satellite reception for you. We are quite isolated— a blessing and a curse both." He paused. "You'll be in your wolf form until morning, so those luxuries would be useless to you anyway."
"So I'm not stuck like this forever?" Kagome asked, hope causing her tail to wag slightly. She jumped at the unexpected sensation.
Koga opened his mouth to answer and then snapped it shut, apparently changing his mind. "We'll talk in the morning. I'll explain as best I can." He started for the door. "I'll have one of the tribeswomen bring you a change of clothing for when you regain your human form."
"Why are you helping me?" Kagome asked.
He paused at the door. "I know you don't have any real reason to trust me, but for now, you're safe. Naraku is my responsibility. I don't know if there is a way to undo what has been done to you, but I will do my best to ensure your safety and well-being in the meantime."
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OoO
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Less than two minutes after the wolves fled, the hunters arrived. They scanned the area using their various skills, but the trail was lost. Between the rain and the wolf magic, there were no clues as to their current whereabouts.
"Our little she-wolf is no longer alone," Inuyasha told the others. Due to the innate gifts passed down through his blood line, he had inhuman tracker skills. His observations were never questioned.
"How did they vanish without a trace?" Sango asked in frustration. "Don't give me that lame excuse of wolf magic. You know that's non-sense."
Inuyasha sniffed the air, sorting through the various scents. "She seems to have met up with some very skilled and powerful wolves. These are perhaps the ones of ancient legend." He glanced down at his watch distractedly. "If she has met their pack we might as well give up finding her tonight. There will be more full moons."
"More full moons means increased opportunity for human casualties," Sango worried.
Miroku noticed Inuyasha's attention focused on the time. "Did Kagome call you back yet?"
Inuyasha shook his head. "My phone doesn't get a signal out here." He answered gruffly.
Miroku placed a hand upon his friend's shoulder. "I'm sure she's fine." He smiled teasingly and waggled his eyebrows. "She's probably just on another date without you."
Inuyasha glowered at him. "You are not in the least bit amusing."
"That's what I keep telling him," Sango grumbled.
"The trail is gone. We're just wasting time out here now. We'll head back to headquarters and reassess," Inuyasha ordered his team. "We'll find these beasts later."
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OoO
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No longer feeling the threat of imminent death, Kagome was re-energized. Maybe it had to do with being a werewolf creature, or maybe it was just adrenaline. After the wolf prince left, she began to explore the chambers. The walls were aligned with bookcases and paintings depicting wolves in the wild. She walked closer to the paintings and noticed the script of the artist in the corners. All the pieces seemed to be works of someone by the name of Sesshomaru.
On the nightstand stood three framed pictures. One depicted three young boys and the next one of the pictures was of the same three except as teenagers. One of the boys especially caught her attention. He was well built, had long dark hair, and had the most amazing blue eyes. Kagome gasped, realizing it was Koga in his human form and he was stunning — certainly worthy of being a fairytale prince or at least the front cover of a Harlequin romance novel.
Unfortunately, the third picture caused some unwanted feelings of jealousy to rise from deep within the pit of her stomach. It showed the striking young man perched upon a black motorcycle with silver flames.
Kagome had always loved motorcycles, but she noticed a red-headed young woman hair clutching tightly to his waist from behind.
"This is ridiculous. I just met the guy. Why should I care if he has a girlfriend?" Kagome scowled at herself. She should just go to sleep. Maybe her thoughts would find some clarity in the morning when she was no longer a canine.
She debated for about two seconds whether or not she should sleep on the bed or the floor. She was still wet from the rain, but she was cold. She jumped onto the bed and snuggled her bodies under the covers. Exhaustion had claimed her so strongly that there were no tears shed before she slipped into unconsciousness.
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OoO
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Koga's father and the general awaited him in the tribe's meeting room. He worried for Kagome. He had been born a werewolf and was unfamiliar with the shock she was surely experiencing. Siring a wolf had been banned centuries ago. He had never dealt with a transformed human personally.
His father, known as Heisei meaning tranquility — the great silver wolf, acknowledged him when Koga entered the room. The Wolf King was the eldest, most wise, and the pack leader. He'd lived through countless moons and always seemed to possess a certain insight he could only hope to attain one day.
"Tell us of the human, my son," King Heisei demanded, narrowing his silver eyes. They were said to glow with the light from the moon herself.
"I know little of her, other than her name and the one that sired her." Koga answered giving his father a courteous bow of submission and showing his throat.
"That is all we require," Heisei answered in a thunderous that rumbled deeply in his chest.
"Kagome, was sired by Naraku against her will. She was being hunted when we found her, " Koga explained.
"I see." Heisei shifted his silvery gaze to settle upon the general of the pack.
General Tenichi stood to his king's right on his haunches and was eager to contribute. "Sir, we must eliminate Naraku. He is a danger to our society. I suggest we also destroy all evidence of this accident."
Koga growled at the general's callous remark of eliminating Kagome. He would not allow such a thing to happen no matter his father's decision. He shook his head at his own show of emotion. It was unlike him to take things personally. Besides, this wasn't the first time General Tenichi wanted to destroy the evidence. A similar incident happened over a decade ago and his father overruled him then.
Heisei's silvery eyes darkened in anger. "We do not destroy the innocent. And if Naraku was an easy one to eliminate he would not have escaped the punishment of the tribe for these last few centuries."
"What shall we do with the girl?" Koga asked his father, ignoring the general whom he suddenly developed a bitter dislike.
King Heisei stared back at Koga quietly.
"Koga, the prince who cares for none save himself concerns himself with some human?" Tenichi spat with disgust.
"Human no more," Heisei correctly softly. "Koga, you are my son and heir. One day will lead our people. You shall tell this former human whatever it is she needs to know. I trust in your abilities to make the correct decisions."
Koga felt his ire decrease at the free reign his father had bestowed upon him. "What shall we do about Naraku? He will not give up on tracking the woman," Koga continued.
"The girl is your responsibility. It is up to you to decide how to properly eliminate Naraku from possible future troubles," Heisei answered.
Koga shouldn't have expected any real advice on stopping Naraku. His father had always been lenient on the traitor.
"Why do we not use the girl to lure him?" General Tenichi offered.
"You will not use her as bait," Koga growled.
"I see. You sound rather protective of a whelp you just met. Has little prince Kouga finally met someone he'd like to mate?" The general teased enjoying the emotions he was getting out of the generally calm, yet arrogant wolf-prince.
The fur on Koga's back began to rise. A warning snarl began to twist his lips.
"Cease this at once." Heisei demanded and the room silenced. "Koga, you know exactly who you should seek advice from in this situation. There is another human that was transformed not too long ago. You should ask him. Where is the girl?"
Koga was grateful for the fur that hid the embarrassed flush on his face. "She is asleep, in my room. I knew that no one would dare disturb her in there," Koga answered defensively.
The general snickered.
The door to the room opened and his father's sister entered. She was a ghost-like wolf with silver and white fur and the same piercing blue eyes as Koga's own. "Pardon the intrusion," Chou said. She was the only wolf that approached King Heisei without fear.
"Sister?" King Heisei asked. "What business brings you here?"
"There is a strong amount of male pheromone stinking up the den," Chou said. She directed her gaze at Koga. "Thank you for those strong-able bodied pups earlier. In a few more seasons they'll be fine warriors."
Heisei nodded. "Chou is a voice of wisdom as usual. Koga, I suggest you return to your chambers then. It is the full moon and an unmated female wolf is strongly enticing to the male half of the population. And unfortunately, the males of our tribe outnumber the females so I suggest you hurry to guard her."
Koga wasted no time in returning to his chambers.
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There was a small crowd of unmated wolves leering outside of Koga's door. They dared not move closer for they knew the owner of the room and wished to remain alive.
"Prince Koga! You have returned! Did you bring us back a present?" Yokubo, a particularly unpleasant looking wolf inquired. He squinted his eye trying to see past the scars formed over it in a recent battle. With proper nutrition and rest, they would be gone in a day or two.
"You will stay away from my woman. She is not to be touched by any, but me. Do not so much as talk to her without my permission," Koga warned.
The crowd of eight wolves quickly dissipated the scene with their tails tucked firmly under their legs. Koga watched them leave with little interest. "What am I getting myself into?"
He entered his room and noticed the girl's clothes for the morning lying on the bench at the end of his bed. She was snuggled under his covers. Well, she was snuggled as well as she could be with using her canine body to arrange the covers. It was rather awkward if you didn't know how to use your appendages.
Koga padded over towards her. She breathed in and out peacefully, no sign of the recent trauma. He reached his muzzle to bring up the blanket to cover her better, but was surprised by her weak whimper. Instinctively, he nuzzled her neck — using the same comforting technique that one, did to calm either their pups or mate. It seemed to work, but as soon as he moved to curl up on the couch on the other side of his room she started to whimper again.
Decision made, he hopped onto the bed and slid into the comfort of the covers as well. He snuggled his body against hers and buried his face into her neck. Her whimpers subsided and he breathed in deeply the calming scent she provided him of fresh rain, clean earth, and the cypress tress of the mountain region.
Koga couldn't remember feeling more comfortable in his own bed. However, he couldn't shake the feeling that although she wanted his presence now that in the morning when she woke up nude with a stranger spooned against her she might be a little upset.
Oh well, he'd just deal with bridge when he crossed it.
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OoO
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Inuyasha was worried. He called Kagome at least five more times before deciding to head over to her apartment in person. Even if she was on a date, surely she would have been back by now. She wasn't the kind of girl to be out all night with a guy — at least he hoped not.
Inuyasha waited in his car for about ten minutes, staring at her dark window before deciding to try the front door. It was locked. He circled around to the back and noticed the door was ajar. A sudden fear gripped his sides.
He scanned the area for signs of struggle and seeing none, entered the apartment.
"Kagome! Kagome! Where are you?" He could see better in the dark than most, but not well enough to find clues. He stumbled over a fallen lamp and then tripped over an end table. Finally he found the light switch.
The light did nothing to solve his riddle. Everything was in order as it should be with the exception of the downed lamp and end table. He noticed her cell phone sitting on the edge of the couch.
He picked up her phone and swiped the four digits for her birthday. Wrong pin. He tried his own birthday and it unlocked to his surprise. He checked the missed calls and saw his name a dozen times as well as several calls from Sango and Miroku after their unsuccessful hunt.
"No point in having a mobile phone if you don't carry it with you," Inuyasha complained.
He sniffed, but he couldn't tell much with his congestion. He started to pick up a cold from the rain exposure. No other clues. Nothing to go on. The house was empty and void of his precious Kagome. Inuyasha sat heavily upon the couch in the living room and stared at the television rethinking of his last conversation with her. She said nothing about having any plans that night.
She had actually called him, wanting to hang out, but he'd blown her off for work. Though, she didn't know his job. She would assume he purposely excluded her from hanging out with Miroku and Sango. He'd been irritable and a jerk.
He realized now that she'd been scared. She admitted to having a bad feeling about the full moon that night and didn't want to be alone. He'd promise to check on her when he finished up with his friends.
He'd been so busy dressing in his fatigues and arming himself with his favorite dagger in his boots he'd ignored the anxiety in Kagome's voice. She really didn't have things to worry about, he was out in the woods keeping the city safe from the real monsters.
He laid back on her couch, his long legs hanging over the arm. He just needed to think. It was too soon to call the police. Maybe she went to visit another friend. He'd wait until the morning and call her work.
"I'm such an idiot," Inuyasha scolded himself. If he'd only listened to her when she called, he would know exactly where she was.
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OoO
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Kagome had the strangest dream. She had transformed into a wolf and then was chased by her best friends. Then she had an encounter with that creep Naraku, but was saved by some handsome guy with a motorcycle. But, then his annoying red haired bimbo-er, girlfriend, showed up and she got into a fight. She also felt odd because it was almost as if she had decided to sleep in the nude, but she never did that. It must be her new body pillow that her mom got her that was laying firmly against her back. Yep, that had to have been it.
But then, pillows don't have a heart beat, nor do they breathe. She opened her eyes, peaking from behind her eyelashes. They opened wide when she realized she was not in her warm bed, but rather the bed of the wolf prince.
Two strong arms were wrapped possessively around her waist pulling her taunt against a firm, muscled chest. A little lower she felt another pressure against her that she preferred to ignore for the moment. Though, apparently, he had great circulation. She directed her gaze over her shoulder to see a human Kouga's nose twitched slightly. His jaw opened wide in an awakening yawn revealing sharp canines that were decidedly not human.
Kagome was speechless. She wanted to slap him and call him a pervert, but she actually enjoyed the feeling of his arms around her. It was cold and he hadn't actually done anything.
His ice blue eyes opened and realization donned on the wolf prince. He looked at her with concerned eyes and immediately unwrapped his arms from her. He moved to the other end of the bed. "I am so sorry." He told her softly in a deep, soothing voice that eased her worries. He reached onto the bench and handed her the clothes there.
He directed his gaze to the wall giving her his well-muscled, naked back. "I am sorry, Kagome. When I came back last night, you were upset, I forgot that in the morning we would turn back into human form. We were covered in fur when I fell asleep," he explained sheepishly.
Kagome snatched up the offered clothes and quickly dressed. She thought she'd be covered in grime from her run, but she was clean — as if she'd just showered. "How am I so clean?" she mumbled to herself. "I'm not mad at you," she continued. She couldn't be mad at him. It wasn't as if she found the awakening so unpleasant. For a human to do that was one thing, but two fur-covered animals?
"It's okay, I just was a little startled," Kagome explained. It was embarrassing, but it wasn't scary. Yesterday had been terrifying, but here in this underground fortress she felt apart from the terror. "I know you didn't mean anything romantic by it." She gestured towards the photograph with him and the redhead. This wolf prince wasn't attracted to her. Inuyasha wasn't attracted to her. Only that creep, Naraku, had ever found her desirable. She frowned at the direction of her thoughts.
Koga began to chuckle. It started out quiet and then it became a riotous affair of deep throated, hearty gales of laughter. "You think the girl in the photograph is some romantic interest of mine?" He cleared his throat and stopped laughing at the expression on Kagome's face. "Look, Kagome, you are lovely as a wolf and you are attractive as a woman. Though, I'm sure you don't really care about my opinion on the matter, considering we just met."
Kagome flashed him a quick, fake smile. Unfortunately, the opinion of this handsome stranger did seem to matter to her. "So, who are these people in your pictures? They must be important to you. Are these the two other wolves that rescued me?"
Koga nodded. "The one with the Mohawk is Hakkaku and Ginta is the one with the black and white mop of hair." Kouga wrapped a sheet around his waist and stood beside her looking at the pictures. He picked up the third photo. "And this is Ayame. She's the daughter of the elder leader of another tribe of wolves in China. That is my baby right there."
"I see. Well you two make a lovely couple," Kagome said curtly.
"Lovely couple?" Koga rubbed his forehead. "I must still be half asleep. You think I'm in a relationship with my motorcycle? I had wondered what the modern world of humans would evolve into, but I figured it would be more interaction with androids than with vehicles of transport."
Kagome felt like an idiot. He already said the other female wasn't his significant other. "Your baby is your motorcycle?"
Koga's sudden deep, throaty laugh sent shivers down Kagome's spine. "Now that's quite the misinterpretation we have going on! Ayame is just an acquaintance. If I had another picture on my bike I'd have it here instead of this one. I don't get out much to have photographs developed"
Kagome couldn't prevent a small smile from crossing her face. But she quickly schooled herself, she didn't want to seem any more naive. "So, I notice you have many paintings by Sesshoumaru. I'm not familiar with his name."
Koga nodded. "He's very talented. He's a close associate who likes to paint as a hobby. He claims that it relieves stress." His eyes twinkled with the mirth of an inside joke. "And I heard your comment earlier about being so clean after your adventure in the woods. It's wolf magic. It's pretty handy."
"So are you going to tell me about my new life as a —," Kagome paused, not quite ready to accept this strange reality.
"As a werewolf?" Koga finished. He sat back on the bed and stared at the ceiling. "Naraku sired you. It's been forbidden to sire a wolf for hundreds of years. I will need to hunt him down before he tries to do anything to harm you. You're a werewolf now. On the night of a full moon you will not be able to control your transformation."
"Does that mean I can transform on other nights on my own free will?" Kagome interrupted.
"Maybe," Koga answered with a shrug. "I've only worked with one other person not born as a wolf. If you are going to learn, you will have to practice. I think he could help you with that, if he's willing. You won't be safe from hunters on your own." He stood, the sheet fell at his waist, but he didn't seem to notice his nudity.
Kagome's cheeks burned in embarrassment and it took all her willpower to look him in the face.
"Kagome, I offer you sanctuary in my tribal home. However, you are not a prisoner. You are free to come and go as you please. Though, I ask that you not endanger others of the tribe."
"I have responsibilities — a job, an apartment, family that depends on me, friends. I will be missed. I can't just hide away in your magic home in the mountains," Kagome said. She tossed her pillow at him. "Can you cover yourself up, please?"
Koga caught the pillow and stared at it a moment in thought. Then he balanced it perfectly on top of his head. "Of course, I understand about obligations. I am a prince. You are welcome to seek safety here on the nights when the moon is full. It has been proclaimed my duty to protect you. Though, if you insist on interacting with humans you will increase your risk of being captured." Koga rubbed his jaw thoughtfully. "I cannot command my pack to guard you, for you are not one of us. This is an unusual circumstance. Maybe, I can ask for volunteers."
"The pillow was supposed to cover male parts," she explained.
"Oh." Koga shifted the pillow to block his front. Though, it was clear from his expression he wasn't sure why it mattered.
"What do you mean by it's your duty? I don't want to be a burden."
Koga rounded the bed and took hold of Kagome's hands. His grip was warm and dry. "You are not a burden. Female wolves are in much need in all packs. You will be a valued member of our tribe, regardless of how you became a wolf. It just might take some time to work past the prejudices of others. Will you honor me and allow me to protect you when you are away from my magic mountain — as you called it?"
"Wait, the other wolves are prejudiced against me? Why aren't you?" Kagome asked. She hadn't exactly been given a choice about whether or not to become a werewolf. Why would they blame the victim?
Koga shrugged. "Honestly, I expected to be, but I'm not. I feel connected to you somehow." His tail swished behind him irritably.
It was the first time Kagome noticed he had a tail in his human form. She smiled at him.
Koga smiled back.
He had a nice smile and he was still holding her hands.
An image of Inuyasha flashed through Kagome's mind. He offered to meet her for lunch at work today. "I'm going to be late for work! Will my coworkers or friends be in danger?"
Koga released her hands. His eye twitched slightly at the high pitch of her exclamation. "I don't believe Naraku would harm them. There would be no point, at least not right now."
"In that case, I need to go home and get ready for work. The children will be so disappointed if I am not there." Kagome's mouth went dry as her eyes surveyed Koga's muscular torso. Maybe she could call in for a few days.
"I think you should act as if nothing has changed in your life, for now," Koga finally suggested. "Maybe I can figure out the reason why Naraku targeted you specifically." He walked past her towards a pair of discarded pants on his floor and pulled them over his hips. "I'll accompany you. Should I pretend to be courting you?"
Kagome felt a twinge of disappointment at the 'pretend' comment. "We'll go together. I have no idea how to get home from here. Do you have a toothbrush I can have?"
"I have a toothbrush you can borrow," Koga answered. "I don't have a spare, but you can use mine. I promise, I don't have Rabies." He flashed her a toothy grin.
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OoO
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Inuyasha had fallen asleep briefly on the front steps when he heard a motorcycle approaching. He immediately became alert, hoping this wasn't a false alarm, but actually was Kagome. and whomever had kept her away from her apartment for so long.
A black bike with silver flames quickly came into view. Two occupants were perched upon it. The one on the back had familiar black tresses whipping wildly into the wind from under a silver helmet with blue flames. Her arms were tightly wound around the bastard,-er driver's body.
The motorcycle parked in the lot next to his dark green Subaru Forester. It became apparent that the passenger on the motorcycle was in fact Kagome when she removed her helmet. Inuyasha pushed himself off the steps and rushed towards her and the mystery driver.
"Inuyasha? What are you doing at my apartment?" Kagome asked, her expression a mixture of surprise, joy, and fear.
The driver stiffened as Inuyasha approached, but didn't acknowledge him. He slipped off the motorcycle and helped Kagome down by lifting her at the waist.
"Where the hell have you been?" Inuyasha demanded more harshly than he had intended. "I've been worried sick about you. You call me all desperate to see me and then you're gone when I come by to check on you?"
"What's it matter to you? I asked you to keep me company because I was going through something very difficult, but you weren't available. You were off doing your thing and you made it clear I wasn't welcome. I do have other friends!" Kagome laid her hand on the driver's leather-clad shoulder. "Thank you for getting me home."
The motorcyclist nodded, but remained silent.
His silence pissed Inuyasha off more. "You can't just go out all hours of the night Kagome!" Inuyasha sputtered. He wasn't looking at her, instead he shot daggers at the man at her side. He'd removed his helmet to reveal a handsome young man with long, dark hair — similar in length to Inuyasha's own much prized hair.
"She was perfectly safe in my care." the man replied, wrapping his arm around Kagome's waist
"And who the hell are you?" Inuyasha demanded. He directed his full attention to the one who had touched his Kagome.
"You can call me Kouga. If you'll excuse us, my woman needs to pick up a few things before heading to work." Kouga started to lead Kagome around Inuyasha.
Inuyasha blocked their progress. "Wait. Kagome, I'm sorry. I was worried about you. I tried calling you numerous times last night. Where the hell were you? Do you have any idea how dangerous it is on the night of the full moon?"
Kagome's hardened expression softened in concern. She touched his shoulder. "You were worried?"
"Keh, of course."
"Then what were you doing last night that was so secret I couldn't tag along?" Kagome asked.
Inuyasha grimaced. "I can't tell you."
Kagome's hazel eyes shimmer with emotion. "Then, I'm afraid I can't tell you where I was either. I'll see you later Yasha." She looped her arm around Kouga's and tugged him towards her apartment. "Thanks for coming to check on me though. Don't bother meeting up with me for lunch."
Inuyasha could only stare after them in shock. "Why didn't you tell me where you were? Where did she dig this Koga character up? Why are you keeping secrets from me now?"
His questions went unanswered. The fatigue of his restless night and the exhaustion from the hunt caught up with him. Inuyasha shuffled to his Forester feeling confused. He was relieved that Kagome got home okay, but the secrets between them were growing.
She didn't need to know that he was a werewolf hunter. He killed the beasts to protect her and others like her. Werewolves are heartless monsters that must be exterminated. He gripped his steering wheel until his knuckles were white. Maybe he'd see if Sango wanted to meet for a quick sparring match so he could let off some steam.
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OoO
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"Kagome, you can not trust Inuyasha," Kouga said. He'd been pacing in her living room while she showered and then changed into work clothes. He tossed a bottle of Ramune soda back and forth between his hands.
Kagome groaned as she pulled on her socks. "Not you too."
"He is one of the hunters from the forest last night," Koga explained. "You must be careful of what you reveal to him. It is very difficult when your good friend becomes your mortal enemy."
"You're sure?"Kagome asked. She took the bottle from his hand, twisted the top using the marble and opening it.
"We've had dealings with his kind before," Koga explained. He took a sip from it and crinkled his nose at the taste. "This does not taste like watermelon."
"Yes, it does," Kagome argued.
Koga raised an eyebrow and held the bottle out to her. She took a drink and spat out the pink fluid.
"It doesn't taste quite how I remember it," she muttered.
Koga laughed. "You'll see quite few of your senses as a wolf are different than that of a human." He took the bottle and dumped the contents in the sink. "Let's go. And I'd advise avoiding sugary drinks from now on."
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OoO
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Kagome enjoyed the motorcycle ride to work with Koga. They didn't talk other than directions. It was nice to quietly appreciate a well-mannered man being polite and helpful. Compared to that psychopath Naraku and the temperamental Inuyasha — Koga really was a prince!
"It's not far now. Take the third exit," Kagome called out over the wind. "It's the large red brick house." Kagome snuggled her face against Kouga's back and enjoyed the scent of him. Ever since her shower, it was as if her nose could detect much stronger aromas. He reminded her of sandalwood.
A few minutes later, he pulled up in front of a red bricked building with a sign reading 'Another Chance.' Kagome handed him back her helmet as she climbed off the bike. She ran her fingers through her hair trying to untangle the windblown mess. "When will I see you again?"
Koga turned off his engine. "I'm not going anywhere. You're going to show me exactly what it is that you do."
Kagome shrugged. "Suite yourself. I am a counselor for troubled youth. All the people who come here needed a new chance. They were members of gangs or participated in other various juvenile misdemeanors." A few boys were in the front yard of the building playing Shogi. They waved at Kagome.
One of them dropped his bishop and ran towards Kagome, hugging her at the waist. "Good morning Kagome!" The red-haired boy greeted.
Kagome ruffled his hair affectionately. "Good morning, Shippo. Have you been dominating at Shogi again?"
Shippo smiled. "Hiten is the only one that will play with me now. Everyone else cries when I beat them."
Hiten, the dark-haired, red-eyed teen that was still at the board game waved. "Hey, Kagome! You're looking lovely today. You sure you won't go out with me? I'll be eighteen in a few weeks. I can wait if you're worried about the math."
"While I appreciate the sentiment, I'm afraid the answer is still no, Hiten. You'll always be too young for me," Kagome replied in passing.
"You know I'd be better than that loser you're always with. What's his name? Dog breath or something? Besides I'm only five years younger than you!" Hiten argued, he twirled his rook piece thoughtfully between his fingers.
"His name is Inuyasha and don't worry because he's not my boyfriend either. And you're five and half years younger. I'll see you later, though, okay?" Kagome yelled back at the flirtatious teen. She walked past him and shut the door before he could reply.
"Are you trying to date Kagome?" Shippo asked Kouga. "If so, I'll have to interview you and make sure you're good enough."
"Aren't you one of the troubled youths? Shouldn't I be the one interviewing you about spending time with Kagome?" Kouga asked back.
Shippo narrowed his eyes and then laughed. "I like him, Kagome. Plus, he has a motorcyle. He might be okay."
Koga followed close behind Kagome as she made her rounds at the youth home. Several of the teenaged girls started lurking around corners trying to catch better glimpses of Kouga. His keen hearing picked up several of their lewd comments. He would have been amused, but Kagome was growing upset. She could hear the girls too.
"Yura!" Kagome shouted aghast a particularly graphic description of what she'd like to do with Koga. "Be respectful of guests!"
The dark haired girl flushed. Her outfit was a blatant snub to the center's dress-code. The shorts barely covered her bottom and the amount of cleavage would make an exotic dancer embarrassed
A small girl with her long hair in pigtails walked up to Yuri and hit her upside the head. "Yura, don't insult Kagome-chan that way! You're being rude to her friend."
"Rin, apologize. I appreciate the sentiment, but you must refrain from violence. That's why you're here." She played a friendly hand on Rin's shoulder and smiled down at her.
"Sorry, Kagome-chan, I just can't stand for stupid people to say stupid things," Rin explained.
"It's okay. Now Yura, you aren't allowed to wear such clothing as that. I suggest you go back to your room and change into something more appropriate."
Yura glared at Kagome. "I'll wear whatever I want. It's not my fault men drool over me and barf when looking at some old maid like you." She folded her arms over her chest, pushing her cleavage even more aggressively.
Koga's vision went red and he wanted to strangle the rotten brat, but someone beat him to the thrashing he felt Yura deserved. The young man by the name of Hiten, had enough of the disrespect to his favorite adult. "Shut your mouth, Yura! Don't you dare talk about Kagome that way. You just wish you were a fraction as pretty as her. You're not just ugly on the outside, but on the inside. She's only ever been kind to us — even when we don't deserve it!"
Tears sprang up in Yura's eyes and she wiped them away angrily, realizing so many people were watching her moment of weakness. "Why is everyone against me?"
Kagome pulled Yura into a hug, the girl struggled at first, then collapsed against Kagome's shoulder. "It's okay Yura. Nobody hates you. You just have to learn that people will love you for who you are and not for your looks. It's the difference of being appreciated as a person or as an object. You have to choose which you'll accept."
Yura nodded pitifully before she whispered, "I'm sorry Kagome-chan. I didn't mean it."
"I know. Come on, let's get you dressed in something a little more flattering." Kagome started to lead her toward the girl's dormitory. "Rin, why don't you come with us?"
Koga watched for a moment, unsure if he should follow or not. He decided to use his nose to make sure Kagome didn't go too far. There were so many unknown factors in this facility. He needed to investigate and eliminate the dangers.
Hiten stood up straight and approached Kouga. The two men were about the same size. "So," Hiten began.
Koga raised an eyebrow. "So?"
"How do you know Kagome?" Hiten asked.
"We go hiking together," Koga answered. Their run through the forest last night should certainly qualify as a hike.
"How old are you?"
"Old," Koga retorted. "I stopped counting the years."
Hiten laughed and began to back down, his tense muscles relaxing. "Have fun getting past Inuyasha."
"What should he matter?" Kouga asked curious. He hadn't been too impressed with Inuyasha that morning, but he did know him to be a capable hunter. It had been a while since any in their trip had fallen to his ilk, but it had happened before.
"He won't let Kagome date anyone. He's insanely jealous, " Hiten answered. "Everyone knows he's in love with her except, Kagome herself, of course." He reached into his pocket for two sticks of gum and offered one to Kouga.
Koga took it and popped it into his mouth. "So if she's off limits, why do you keep trying?"
Hiten grinned wickedly. "Because I can handle Inuyasha. I suppose it will be alright if you go out with her."
"Thanks for the permission," Koga answered dryly.
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OoO
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After spending all day at the home, Koga had a good idea about Kagome's job. The only question that remained was why she worked at such a place. Whatever caused her involvement in youth violence prevention programs?
They stood beside his motorcycle. "Kagome, do you want to go back to my place or yours?" Koga asked, handing her his spare helmet.
"Will I change tonight? The moon is still pretty full." Kagome asked, shoving the helmet over her head.
"You only transform on full moons naturally, "Koga answered. "You will have to learn how to control your transformation to morph on other nights. However, I am confident that you will easily master it. As much as I hate to admit it, Naraku is very powerful and you should be as well."
"I filed for vacation for the next week, so let's go back to your home. I'd like you to teach me how to gain control. I really can't handle seeing my friends and the kids right now. I can't handle pretending that I'm normal," Kagome said. "They will start to ask questions that I won't want to answer."
"Can I ask you why you are working at this place? This pack for youths?" Koga asked. "You can tell me on the road."
Ten minutes onto the road and Kagome answered his question. "My younger brother, his name is Souta. When I first started college, he had joined a gang. I was unaware of his involvement until it was almost too late. Inuyasha helped me to rescue him. He almost died."
"That's a good thing. Why do you sound so sad?" Koga asked confused with her silence.
"When we found him, he was in the middle of a gang war. We got there in time to stop the fight before it got too serious, but the first shot had already been fired. It was Souta's best friend. And he died in Souta's arms. My brother has never been the same since," Kagome explained.
"So he started going to one of the troubled youth programs, but it wasn't enough. I found out about the home 'Another Chance' but we didn't have enough money to afford the facility. So I started working there part-time to pay for it while I was studying at the university."
The conversation lulled and they were both quiet for several kilometers.
"I see," Koga said, breaking the silence.
"And I've been working there ever since. Souta doesn't live there anymore. He started his first year of college this year abroad. I'm proud to say that he's doing well."
"Any other family?" Koga asked.
"My grandfather and mother live at a shrine at the outskirts of the city. I don't see them often. We have different religious beliefs," Kagome said. "They have beliefs and I don't."
Koga chuckled. "I probably shouldn't laugh at that, but I feel the same way with my father. He has such faith while I'm the realist." He navigated the motorcycle to a hidden alcove and then guided them back into the den's tunnels. "You've known Inuyasha for several years. I've been aware of him and his hunters for at least the last seven years in this city."
"Oh, he's been here longer than that. We've been friends since we were eleven," Kagome explained.
"So you did not know him from before he was ten years old? Did you never meet his older brother?" Koga asked eagerly.
"No. He and his family moved to Tokyo when he was eleven. He always told me that he was an only child. I've been to his home many times, and never have his parents mentioned another son." Kagome cleared her throat. "Maybe you have him confused with someone else."
"Not likely," Koga scoffed. "There is someone I would like you to meet. He was due to arrive this afternoon. I think you will find him somewhat familiar."
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OoO
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Inuyasha paced in front of the television much to the annoyance of Sango and Miroku. They were growing annoyed with his obsession about Kagome's new boy and it was impossible to watch Ninja Warrior.
"Give it a rest. So she's dating some guy. I can't say that I blame her. You're never very honest with her., Sango told him matter-of-fact as she craned her neck to see the obstacle course behind him..
Inuyasha stopped his pacing and shot her an ugly glare. "Whose side are you on, wench?"
"Not yours, if you call me that again," Sango warned. She tossed an empty water bottle at Inuyasha's head. "Now, get out of the way!"
"You've got to calm down, Inuyasha. We have other things to do focus our attention on. We need to find out more information about those wolves from last night. Their behavior was odd, especially the female." Miroku wasn't watching the television anymore, but instead absently thumbed through a book about werewolves.
"That book is useless you know, " Sango told him with an amused grin. "Written hundreds of years ago from storytellers that heard corrupted versions of events."
"You never know. Besides we've got to discuss something other than the lack of Inuyasha's love life. Honestly man, you must let her live her own life. You aren't her boyfriend, so you can't make her obey you." Miroku shut the book firmly, unable to concentrate.
"Even if you were her boyfriend, she wouldn't have to obey you," Sango added casting Miroku a warning glare.
Inuyasha looked away from them and stared at the television. "You guys just don't understand. I can't lose someone else to those wolves." The latest contestant from Ninja Warrior fell into the water pit, ending their turn prematurely.
"Who did you lose?" Sango asked quietly. It was a topic she and Miroku suspected, but never heard.
"Someone a long time ago," Inuyasha answered still in his daze.
"An old girlfriend?" Miroku proded.
Inuyasha shook his head. "My brother." His feelings about his brother were mixed. He'd always looked up to him as the perfect role model, but his actions towards the end of his life destroyed the image. He didn't know what to think, but he missed him.
"Well, I don't think you have to worry about Kagome being lost to wolves." Miroku reassured his fellow hunter. "She has us, as does everyone else in this country. Zero casualties on our watch."
Inuyasha said nothing, but he stopped pacing and sat next to Sango on the couch.
"Finally," she muttered, elbowing him in the ribs.
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OoO
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The figure had become acquainted with life in the shadows. For twelve years, he spent his time in the shadows only to walk in the light with others that live in the shadows. He welcomed the dark. The light had persecuted him. He welcomed death for that is what his loved ones welcomed upon him.
He felt the presence of two of his kind. One was a familiar male, an old friend, his only friend and the other was new but had the faint scent of another. The scent reminded him of a home he had lost and his own family's betrayal. He finished the final strokes on his latest work. Each piece represented another victim that he had been given the task of ending their existence.
The figure pulled back his hood and allowed light to invade his peace. The light of the room reflected upon his silvery-white hair that reached his knees, alabaster white skin, purple tattoos representing his station as an assassin, and golden eyes that sought for retribution.
"Sesshomaru, this is Kagome," Kouga said, introducing the two. "I believe you both have the same problem — and his name is Inuyasha."
Sesshomaru inclined his head towards the young woman in acceptance. "Inuyasha seeks your death as well?"
"I don't think he realizes it is me that he hunts. I don't think he would want to kill me if he knew it was me," Kagome reasoned.
Sesshomaru shook his head at her naivety and looked upon his latest artwork before answering. "It would matter not. You have become a monster to him. It matters not how much he loves you. He would spend his entire existence to destroy you. He gets it honestly from our father."
"What do you mean?" Kagome asked as she moved closer to the mysterious artist. Koga remained leaning near the doorframe.
Sesshomaru redirected his gaze towards hers and met those curious hazel eyes with his golden ones. "After I was bitten I went to my family, to seek help. I thought that together we would find a solution to this life.. He paused, staring at his paint brush for a moment. "However, my father decided that I was no longer his son. No demon could be the son of him. I was a monstrous imitation of his Sesshomaru. He moved away from our home to start anew where no one knew about his eldest son. Because as far as he was concerned, Inuyasha was now his only son."
Kagome looked back at Koga. "So is this why Inuyasha is a wolf-hunter?"
Koga nodded with his icy eyes sad.
Sesshomaru looked past the girl and addressed Koga. "If Inuyasha is looking for her, he won't stop until he finds her."
"Which is why I want your help in teaching her to control her new powers," Koga said cheerfully.
Sesshomaru grunted. "Do we know why Naraku chose her?" He glanced at Kagome briefly. "You may be pretty, but don't be fooled into thinking he is that shallow."
"Her grandfather is a Shinto priest," Koga said.
"If she how strong spiritual energy that would be a good reason. It's why he transformed her those centuries ago," Sesshomaru reasoned. He looked back at Kagome. "I will help. Life grows boring with my current shadow work." His solemn gaze fell upon Koga. "I owe you for your help when I was new to this life."
An awkward silence descended upon them. "I saw your paintings," Kagome interjected. "Your use of color was very creative"
"Really?" Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow in surprise. "The only person who ever sees them is Koga and the only place you can find them is either at my residence or in Kouga's bed chambers." Sesshomaru had a wry grin spread across his lips. "I don't remember seeing you before, so it must have been the latter."
"I-" Kagome couldn't think of a good excuse.
"How was your mission?" Koga abruptly changed he topic.
"Need you really ask? I'm painting. That should be answer enough of its success." Sesshomaru huffed indignantly. "As if I would fail," he muttered.
"What kind of mission?" Kagome asked curiously.
"Up to you if you want her to know," Sesshomaru answered.
"Have you wondered where the money for this lovely home has come from Kagome?" Koga asked.
Kagome bit her lip, a nervous habit she would have to break before she hurt herself with her slightly elongated canines. "I was a bit curious," she admitted. "This kind of financial resources are a bit out of my scope of expertise. I'm going to guess it wasn't from a bake sale or carwash."
Koga chuckled. "Not from a bake sale. My family runs a sector of the underground society of Japan. We sponsor fights and bets upon those fights."
"So you're involved in fighting, gambling, drugs, prostitution, murder and all sorts of illegal activity!" Kagome spoke quickly in a panic. She might not have been a priestess, but she did grow up in a Shrine. That kind of cruel behavior raked against her very moral core. She felt betrayed that after she shared with Koga about working with youth to prevent such lives of crime that he would lead such a life.
Kouga raised his palms signifying submission. "Slow down! No, Kagome love, we only participate in the fights and the gambling that goes along with it. However, sometimes in order to prevent the other crimes and to protect those not involved in our little underground world, Sesshomaru sometimes has missions to carry out."
"What kind of missions?" Kagome dared to venture.
"I eliminate the trouble makers.," Sesshomaru answered bored.
Kagome gaped at him incredulously. "You can't be serious? You make a living killing people?"
Sesshomaru shook his head. "These people gave up their humanity long ago. In order to keep the surface dwellers like yourself, or your former self rather, safe I get rid of such villainy. Would you pity the pirates and vikings of centuries ago that raided and plundered villages?"
"I suppose not." Kagome reluctantly admitted.
Koga fought to contain a smile at Sesshomaru's logic. He was afraid that when Kagome discovered this about him that she would run to Inuyasha and beg for her death.
"It is the same. Did you like my paintings?" Sesshomaru changed the subject tired of the discussion.
"Yes! They were most excellent! The passion is very obvious. I can sense your despair and anger in some of the pieces," Kagome gushed her praise.
"You sound impressed, but I would not say that I ever paint of despair. I despair nothing. Anger perhaps can be seen, but never despair. Do not confuse the two again. NEVER despair what life has given or taken away. All one can do is accept and fight." Sesshomaru stared at her for a few moments after his speech.
Kagome averted her eyes first. Then her stomach growled — loudly.
"Time to feed the monster!" Koga exclaimed with a laugh. He reached out and laid his palm across her belly.
Kagome scowled and removed his hand roughly.
"Do not be offended. Your body is still changing. You must eat to accommodate the transformation," Sesshomaru explained.
"What do you mean? You said I wouldn't change into a wolf tonight," Kagome said, pointing a finger in Koga's chest harshly.
Koga gently brushed her finger aside. "You will not change into a wolf tonight, however, your physical structure will slightly alter. You'll become a bit taller and more muscular. Think of it as the end result of excessive workouts without the actual work."
"It's actually pretty nice. Your speed, strength, and stealth abilities will all improve while in your human form. Your senses will also become enhanced and you do not age much. I fail to see any faults in this being a werewolf deal, other than dealing with idiots that constantly want to hunt you." Sesshomaru muttered the last part under his breath trying to see how much Kagome's senses had enhanced.
"Inuyasha's not an idiot!" she defended.
"Good, you heard that," Koga replied.
"Of course, I heard that," Kagome complained.
"It's impressive that you heard that, I spoke at a frequency that only a wolf could hear," Sesshomaru clarified. "I suppose if you have more questions about the transition from human to werewolf, you can ask me. I'm the only one aside from yourself that still lives."
"Enough of this, let us acquire some food and then discuss how we are going to rid the world of Naraku." Koga said. "And just to be clear, Sesshomaru, you weren't human before your change. You were already something more." He began to head towards the door with the other two following suit.
Kagome turned towards Sesshomaru, who was walking beside her. "So, what happened to the one that turned you?"
"I was bitten on the night of a full moon. As soon as I was bit, I transformed. And as soon as I transformed I killed her," Sesshomaru answered with no hint of remorse.
"Why did you kill her? Maybe she turned you because she was in love with you?"
Sesshomaru stopped walking and grabbed her shoulders. Koga turned around to observe the exchange. "Never be fooled by the poisonous words Naraku fed you. He did not turn you for love and neither did she turn me for that reason. I was converted to serve as a tool to attain power for her."
"Don't try to romanticize it," Kouga warned. "Sesshomaru returned home the next morning and explained everything to his family, but they rejected him. I found him later that night and we have been friends ever since."
"I do not typically believe in friends. But Koga is the only one that I have," Sesshomaru admitted, returning his face to a stoic mask.
"I would like to be included amongst that group." Kagome dared to say.
Sesshomaru glanced down at her. "Perhaps, one day. For now, you are one of two to see emotion on this Sesshomaru's face in the past twelve years. I'd say that is a step in the right direction."