I hope everyone had a happy holiday season! Now to welcome in the new year right a new chapter!
A warm thanks to all the loving reviews I have received, I need them desperately there the only things that motivate me to update lol
So sit back relax and enjoy!
Chapter 3
Release
Sadness pulls tightly
Forces you into stranger wanting comfort
Drives you to be held
Can you make it stop to soon
No
Dimming rays of sun rise flared over the open sky to the thinning forest below.
Thick looming trees bleeding away into flattened dirt covered roads a sight welcoming to most, humans that is.
Kouga looked at the long widening path ahead of him a look of pure distain written plainly on his handsome face.
The thick overwhelming scent of humans burning his nostrils even with his weakened sense of smell.
A human village was close, uncomfortably close.
"Something wrong wolf?" Inuyasha called keeping pace with the group.
Kouga let out a light snort he knew the mutt was going to get some form of enjoyment out of this.
Since returning from the stream last night with Kagome at his side, they had luckily slipped back into camp unnoticed everyone still firmly in the grip of sleep.
It was beyond comforting to know Kagome and his night together had been and would remain their secret.
Then again he would have loved to shove the mutt's nose in it that Kagome had left him sleeping to search for another man.
He knew it would do little at this point, he along with Inuyasha had been out numbered when it came to the subject of entering the approaching human village.
He couldn't really complain though, they had made excellent time traveling quite a distance over the course of the last few hours.
But something about entering an unknown human village filled with ignorant and judgmental villagers didn't sit well with him.
"Would you two stop looking so glum? This is going to be fun!" Kagome smiled reassuringly up at Inuyasha as she walked by his side.
Kouga to her opposite side made the exact same face of aggravation as Inuyasha both didn't really care for the situation they were being forced into.
"Maybe they have sweet dumplings!" Shippo cheered walking by Sango's feet at the rear of the group
"Or beautiful village girls" Miroku smirked before receiving a harsh look in his direction from Sango.
"What was that monk?" She asked sharply
Miroku instantly bowed his head in defeat knowing challenging the brazen woman was the last thing he wanted.
"N-Nothing" He stammered
Kouga snorted hearing the pointless chatter of the group it was so alien to him to be near humans and their habits.
Still apart of him felt slightly more relaxed, this was easy compared to the brutal lifestyle of the wolf demon tribe.
"Oh look we're here!" Kagome cheered walking a bit faster
Kouga looked past the hurrying human girl before him, she couldn't have been more right.
Mere yards away was the clear opening to a village oddly shaped and strong scented, defiantly human.
A part of him wanted to simply go around the accursed thing, his past had not been the most welcoming of humans.
Most encounters meaning arrows or spears aimed in his direction.
Though it was hard to get angry about something that seemed to make Kagome so happy, of course that was just him.
He could clearly see the look of frustration spread over Inuyasha's face, he wasn't going to enjoy this any more than he would.
"Let's get this over with" Inuyasha huffed walking to catch up to the egger priestess before him.
Kouga remained planted in the dirt as everyone in the group sped by egger to enter the safety and familiarity of the village.
Most were almost at the opening before Kagome noticed he was not among them, she turned to the frozen wolf demon.
"Come on Kouga!" She smiled, she wasn't naïve she knew all to well demon's weren't the fondest of places like this. But with all of them together she knew it was bond to be fun!
Kouga let out a heavy sigh every part of him commanded to go around and meet them on the other side, but he couldn't bring himself to hurt Kagome in such a way.
For her he would sacrifice at least a few hours of being extremely uncomfortable.
With a heavy sigh he took a step forward regretting every inch he covered.
He met Kagome at the entrance a warm smile on her face helping to ease his discomfort but not much.
Then with a grab at both his and Inuyasha's hands she practically threw them into the village.
The eastern sky seemed gloomy almost, surprisingly even bathed in rich summer light and a cloudless sky it remained dark.
Sharp mountains casting their massive shadows on the cliffs and countless cave openings below, one particular darker than most.
In the depths of the shadow covered cave a lone wolf demon struggled in the depths of his make shift bed.
Ginta lay restlessly on the flattened straw of his room, the stone walls around him lit by burning torches filling the air with the musk of burning wood.
He coughed into the void of the cave his throat dry beyond comfort, a dull pain compared to the one in his chest.
He lay there seemingly motionless desperately trying not to undo the thick bandages wrapped around his torso.
It had been days since the rat demons attack and regrettably the wounds he had received in that battle were taking longer to heal than he would have liked.
His only hope was that Kouga had slain that accursed monster for doing this to him.
Snapping him from his thoughts the approach of light footsteps rang off the stone walls.
He turned his head slowly to the cave entrance egger to know who had come to visit him.
Hakkaku emerged framed in the stone entrance a pale of clear water tucked under his arm.
Ginta felt his parched lips open in desire smelling the tempting liquid just out of reach.
Hakkaku could clearly see the look of desperation on his comrades face he approached him wordlessly before sitting at his side.
Slowly he handed Ginta to pale, he gladly excepted.
He threw the wooden container back not caring if he soaked himself in the process, just as long as he got the tantalizing water into his mouth.
After sucking the pale dry he took a deep breath ignoring his breathing just to drink deeply.
"Slow down!" Hakkaku barked agitated Ginta had wasted most of the water he had brought him.
"Gha!" Ginta coughed in satisfaction his thirst quenched for now.
The two sat there in silence for a little while before Hakkaku was forced to ask.
"Has the healer come by today?" He asked down at the laying wolf demon
Ginta shook his head from side to side "No" He replied truthfully
Hakkaku sighed into the warm air of the cave he couldn't really blame the tribe healer.
So many had been wounded in the battle with the rat demon no doubt the old timer was all over the mountain side trying to tend to everyone.
Ginta looked up at Hakkaku, his usually spiky hair flat and dull, heavy dark colored circles under his beady eyes.
He looked utterly exhausted.
"Kouga still hasn't returned?" Ginta asked knowing Kouga could handle the tribe matters a lot better than they could.
Hakkaku shook his head "It's only been a few days, but I am exhausted. I don't know how he does this day in and day out" He admitted
It could not have been more than the truth he was so drained both from lack of sleep and force to do physical activity.
Whether it be leading the hunt to feed the tribe or sitting and sorting out shift for guard duty.
Needless to say he had a whole new respect for what Kouga was able to do alone without complaining.
"I hope he comes back soon" Ginta admitted
Hakkaku could not have agreed with him more.
"Me too" He whispered
The day seemed to lag mid day rising and falling into late afternoon, extremely slowly through Kouga's eyes.
Hours upon hours had dragged by and still he remained the captive of the human girl at his side.
Kouga stood arms crossed over his armored chest watching as Kagome smiled and exchanged pointless words to a sales woman of what seemed to be fine jewelry.
She stood before the other woman's cart looking at bright and exuberant gems.
All the others of the group fanned out over the surprisingly large village looking at trinkets and garment of their own.
Kouga had decided to stay close to Kagome's side trying to avoid the countless stares in his direction.
Annoyed as he was it was refreshing to see Kagome smile and act so carefree, he couldn't image the life of a priestess was a glamorous one.
It was nice to see her act like a normal human girl in front of him.
He took secret mental notes of all the pieces of sparkling gems she picked up if she admired them this much he would be sure to hunt some down for her.
He knew the eastern caves were full with countless diamonds and other precious stones they had collected through plunder over the years.
Wolf demons had no need for such things but enjoyed the look of sparkly objects.
Though as much as he was enjoying Kagome's company a small part of him felt drawn to other parts of the village, for what reason he was unsure.
Silently knowing he most likely wouldn't be missed he began to slip away into the distance, before completely vanishing from sight.
Kagome laughed as the sales woman placed a shiny golden bracelet around her wrist.
She turned to Kouga who she believed to still be standing at her side to get his opinion.
"Well Kouga what do you think?" She asked spinning to face him her wrist pointed out.
She instantly noticed he wasn't there "Kouga?" She asked scanning the small crowded streets.
He was no where to be seen, "Huh I wonder where he went?" She asked out loud
"That man is he a friend of yours?" The elder saleswoman asked politly
Kagome spun to face her "Yes" She replied with a smile.
It was not such a huge surprise to hear that the woman believed Kouga to be a man and not a demon.
Kouga's demon looks were a bit more well hidden than most.
"I admire his furs, he must have recived them from the hunters" She said almost distantly
"Hunters?" Kagome asked a twinge of almost fear crawling up her spine
"Oh it's just wonderful this village has been plagued by a pack of wolves attacking our livestock for countless years! Then a few days ago the men got together and hunted them all down" She smiled carelessly
Kagome froze in place having heard what she had knowing Kouga was wandering around the village.
"All but one, the leader of the accursed pack has been captured. The village elder thought it best to put him on display as a reminder of the victory. I know a man who sales wonderful wolf furs very cheap if you are interested?" She asked ignorant to the fury the unsuspecting village had threatened to unleash.
Kagome did not hesitate she turned her heels from the elder woman to the surging crowd around her.
She flew in between them desprate to find Kouga and leave his village before he did anything to harm it.
"Hey!" She heard the woman call from the now distant cart angrey that Kagome had unknowingly stolen her braclet.
Then every noise bleed away replaced with the pounding of her heart in her ears desprate to find Kouga, quickly!
Kouga wandered the streets of the village aimlessly his eyes fixed on the dimming sky above, much more preferable to the crowed streets and crammed huts all around him.
He lost track of how much distance he had coverd since leaving Kagome it was unclear to him until he peered back down at the village he thought would still be around him.
He sighed in almost relief seeing the huts and village humans bleed away.
He now stood on the outskirts of the village still partially surrounded by humans and their homes but nothing like before.
It was beyond refreshing to smell the sweet air of the forest compared to the countless scents of this place.
Kouga had to fight the urge to sprint to the trees that seemed to call to him.
Then carried on the wind a faint cry followed by a plea could be heard.
Kouga froze in place thinking he had just imagend the sound only a wolf demon could heard.
Then it whined and called again, that proved he wasn't imagening things.
Kouga turned back to the human village the sound was coming from desprate to find its source.
He practically sprinted past the few humans around him letting his ears and nose act as his guide.
He lost track of how many countless steps and turns he took till the source of the sound was finally reveled to him.
He looked around to find himself at the rim of the village, just out of reach the forest across the dirt covered ground.
His feet froze in place at the sight.
Mere feet away was a large gray wolf its fur clumped and stained with dirt among other things.
Around its thick neck a large tight rope clearly cutting into its flesh from strain.
The animal growled and whined at the small figures prancing around it.
Kouga took a second look to notice that there were human children taunting and laughing at the bond creature.
Sharp sticks in their young hands as the poked and stabbed the defenseless animal.
A few steps away adult human villagers no doubt watching their children enjoy the torment they were inflicting.
Kouga took a hard step forward his lips folding back in snarl almost matching in pitch to a fierce wolf.
The children turned to the approaching wolf demon the look of malice written on his face enough to cause them to drop there weak weapons and flee to their parents arms.
Kouga watched them run leaving the animal now alone staring blankly back at him.
Kouga slowly approached his demon eyes scanning the wolf further, dreading what he saw.
The wolfs fur was thick hiding the fact to human eyes that he was beyond thin, practically a skeleton draped with skin.
Clear wounds spread over its large body no doubt from human hands, dried blood clinging to the creature supporting that fact.
He tried to snarl at Kouga but its mouth was bond tightly with another thick rope clamping its jaws tightly together.
Kouga whined at the animal in a high pitched tone telling it secretly it was safe.
The wolf took a shaky step forward, clearly it was struggling to even stand at this point.
Its back legs and body shaking like a leaf in a wind storm.
It didn't take a wolf demon to see that this animal didn't have long for this world, due to pure human neglect and cruelty.
Kouga stepped forward until he was towering over the once mighty wolf it peered up to him its silver eyes filled with longing and sadness.
Kouga knew all to well why, bond and starving aside the ultimate punishment for this creature was to be so tantalizingly close to the outside forest and yet unable to reach it.
Slowly Kouga went to his knees before the animal whispering and growling in his throat speaking to him the ancient language of the wolf.
He asked secretly if he would allow him to touch him.
The wolf whined in response giving his permission, Kouga slowly extended a clawed finger to the muzzle of the wolf slicing away the thick rope.
It fell soundlessly to the ground below allowing the wolf to speak freely to him for the first time.
Kouga listened to his low whines and hushed growls as he tried to speak, he could see it was difficult with the constricting rope still wrapped tightly around its neck.
Kouga raised his hand again preparing to slice away the reaming rope until he felt something hard grip his shoulder.
The wolf snarled watching the person interrupt them both.
Kouga glared over his shoulder in rage at the brazen human bold enough to touch him.
He was met by a pair of black beady eyes an unknown human holding his shoulder firmly.
"Just what in the hell do you think your doing? This is our wolf!" He boomed down at him
The ignorant man didn't get to speak another word as Kouga leapt to his feet.
He slammed his balled fist into the side of the mans cheek feeling the unmistakable feeling of breaking bone under his knuckle.
The man flew backwards back fist into the dirt his jaw hanging loosely leaving him unable to speak or plead for mercy.
Kouga towered over the man now laying on the ground, before reaching down to grip him by the parting of his kimono.
Effortlessly he brought the man back up with one arm, the human hanging in mid air from Kouga's hold.
"What did you say? Your wolf?" He roared before punching the man again this time hard in the stomach.
The man tried to scream as several ribs in his abdomen were smashed to pieces from the attack.
"Wolves can never be owned!" He boomed tossing the limp body of the worthless human to the dirt right before the watching wolf.
Kouga got behind the man before bringing him to his knees, forcing him to stare the wolf in the face.
Kouga held the mans head in his palm his other hand lined across his throat preparing to slice it wide open.
"Look at him" Kouga commanded the human in his hands "He will be the last thing you ever see" He hissed his voice laced with venom
He heard the man struggle to plea for mercy the fresh scent of salt clinging to him, no doubt he was crying like a child.
It didn't matter to Kouga no amount of pleading was going to spare this worthless waste of space in his eyes.
"Someone help him!" Kouga could hear the other villagers who had gathered to this spectacle cry out.
"He's a demon!" Another shouted
Kouga smirked knowing his demon nature had been revealed much to his delight.
It was time these humans learned just what real fear was all about.
Kouga lined his claw along the rim of the mans throat, one swipe and he would be dead within seconds.
"Kouga stop it!" A frail voice echoed from the parting crowd
That voice forced Kouga to freeze in his actions, slowly he turned his gaze over his shoulder.
There mere feet away Kagome fought her way through the crowd her eyes filled with pleading and fear.
"Kouga" He heard her cry clear that she was on the brink of tears.
Kouga didn't weaver holding the weeping man still firm in his hand fighting the urge to crush his skull and get it over with.
"Let him go wolf!" He heard another all to familiar voice warn
Kouga looked past Kagome to Inuyasha standing mere feet behind his claws flexed.
No doubt the mutt had led Kagome to his location.
Would he actually fight him to save this pathetic creature's life?
Then the soft whine of the wolf mere inches from him caused him to stop completely.
The once standing wolf was unable to hold his weight any longer slowly he fell to the ground lifelessly.
Kouga watched in horror the weak human now the last thing on his mind, carelessly he threw the limp body of the badly beaten man towards the crowd.
Swiftly he went to his knees beside the wolf, its eyes still slightly open but fogged with the hazy grip of death.
Kouga growled down at the wolf speaking to him in secret.
The wolf whined in response followed by a series of low growls and hissing.
Kagome watched along with the crowd of humans as they exchanged secret words back and forth.
"Do you see? That proves it!" A villagers roared
"He speaks to beast! He is a wolf demon!" Another cried in fear
Kagome shot them a stern glance secretly wishing she had the power to purify humans.
Slowly she walked forward egger to get away from the judgmental crowd all around her.
"Kagome" She heard Inuyasha warn, she didn't hesitate walking further and further until she was standing over Kouga's shoulder.
Kouga now aware of her presence placed a warm hand over the wolf demons head petting him softly.
The wolf whined up at him asking for a secret favor.
Kouga nodded before slicing away the thick rope around his neck.
The wolf slowly lifted its head to lick Kouga's hand before laying back on the cool ground soft cries in between its breath.
Kagome looked over the struggling animal fighting back tears as she did.
"How cruel" She thought regarding the village at her back.
The wolf whined softly as Kouga placed his hand on its muzzle over and over rubbing him gently to sleep.
Kouga whispered something down at the once mighty creature, his eyes filled with sorrow.
The wolf lifted its head weakly, then ever so lowly it howled into the sky before falling lifelessly back to the ground.
Kouga caught the large animals head carefully before placing him back down.
Beyond clear it had just taken its last breath.
Kagome closed her eyes in sadness seeing the light fade from the wolfs beautiful silver eyes.
It was dead.
She stood there silently at Kouga's side for several minutes as he stared blankly down at the body of the limp wolf.
Then slowly he began to adjust scooping the weightless wolf into his arms.
"Kouga?" Kagome asked softly
Kouga didn't reply as he got to his feet taking the wolf with him.
Kagome looked down to the dirt covered ground knowing what was to come next.
Silently Kouga walked towards the waiting forest, Kagome watched him step by step until he was engulfed by the darkness.
She looked back to the ground where the wolf had lain seeing small spots of dried blood where the animal had been tortured.
Then softly her tears fell.
The sky was a deep shade of crimson fire like color swelled over the clouds and setting sun.
Tree tops of the forest above giving way to the bright and yet dark rays of light peering through.
Deep in the depths of the silent forest a lone figure sat solemnly.
Kouga sat on the cool forest ground eyeing the mound of freshly mounted dirt before him.
His hands hanging loosely on his knees, his fingertips stained with the dark earth he had just dug up.
It seemed only fitting that the wolf be retuned to the forest it had once roamed so freely in as its final resting place.
Wolf demons and wolves alike were meant to be returned to the earth once they passed, it was a circle of endless life.
He had lost track of how long he had been sitting there alone in the darkening forest simply staring at the freshly dug grave before him.
He was sure Kagome would be worried over him but he knew she would be alright.
The fresh scent of burning wood was not to far off, it was clear the mutt had set up camp somewhere close.
Kouga sighed into the crisp air his mind heavy with the final look he had shared with the wolf and its final words to him.
Every fiber of his being wanted to return to that accursed village and rip every single person responsible for this act limb from limb.
Had he thought he would get away with it without Kagome finding out he would do so in a heartbeat.
He rested his chin against the top of his knee his eyes heavy with all forms of swirling emotion, one particular anger.
Then the soft rattling of underbrush mere feet away distracted him from his line of heated thought.
He felt his eyes narrow knowing who was approaching him.
The footsteps that were sure to follow stopped mid track as if they were hesitant about approaching.
"Are you just gonna stare all night?" Kouga asked not bothering to turn to the priestess he knew was behind him.
Kagome sighed knowing she had been caught "I'm sorry, It's just its getting dark and I-" Kagome trailed off taking an unsure step forward.
"You don't need to worry about me so much you know" Kouga replied flatly knowing what was going to be the last part of her statement.
"Kouga" She began as if wanting to say something supportive or uplifting, nothing was coming to mind.
"Kagome, I want to be alone" Kouga replied surprisingly sharp.
He didn't want to take out his pent up frustration on her but being alone right now was probably the best thing for him, at least until he cooled off.
"Alright" She replied softly taking a step forward
Kouga was unsure of her meaning, she had agreed and yet she was still coming towards him?
Kouga turned to peer over his shoulder more than surprised at the sight.
Kagome knelt down by the mound of earth a bundle of freshly picked flowers wrapped in her arms.
Kouga felt his eyes widen in surprise knowing her overwhelming scent had covered the smell of wildflowers.
Once she placed the group of mixed colored flowers on top of the earth she stood back up, bowing her head in respect before humming a soft prayer.
Kouga looked at the flowers in silence, Kagome never stopped surprising him.
Any other human couldn't have cared less if the world was short one less wolf but Kagome respected the loss of such a creature.
It reminded him of why he had always felt so strongly for her, not just her beauty or power, but her heart.
Kagome finished her soft prayer before looking down at Kouga who met her gaze willingly.
"I'll be waiting for you back at camp" She smiled softly preparing to leave him to all the time he needed.
She slowly turned from him about to head back into the darkness of the forest to return to Inuyasha and the others.
Instantly she froze in place at the feeling of something strong and warm wrapping around her hand.
Kagome looked down to face Kouga holding her in place gently.
"You don't have to go" He whispered
Kagome was surprised by his sudden change unaware that she had reached him even in such a dark mood.
She didn't have the heart to deny him, slowly she let his hand fall away as she walked back to his side.
She knelt down until she was sitting beside him her shoulder slightly pressing into his, something Kouga didn't mind at all.
It was comforting to him to be so close to her, she seemed to be the only thing capable of calming him even in such a foul mood.
They sat in comfortable silence both their eyes fixed on the wolfs grave before them.
Kagome didn't want to linger on the subject but something had been plaguing her thoughts since leaving the village behind.
Silently cursing herself for ever bringing Kouga to that place to begin with.
"Kouga" She whispered
Kouga turned to her slightly "Hm?"
"What did he say to you?" Kagome asked softly
Kouga knew what her question meant, she like all the other humans and Inuyasha included couldn't speak wolf.
They had no idea what the animal had said in its final moments.
He found it slightly comforting that Kagome even cared.
Kouga sighed heavily his deep blue orbs going to the now dark sky above.
"I'm afraid" He whispered
Kagome felt her eyes narrow in sadness almost remorseful she asked.
"I'm so sorry" She replied in a low tone, slowly letting her fingers curl into Kouga's hand mere inches away.
Kouga felt her small fingers twine into his, he extended his hand open to hold hers completely, grateful for her comfort.
He used his thumb to glide over the smooth skin of her palm gently.
"Thanks Kagome" He softly sighed, holding her hand a little tighter.
Thick clouds swarmed the late sky, clashes of purple and blues spread out wildly.
Such an uncommon sight in the dead of summer, blanketed starry sky should be all that could be seen.
No just dark swirling clouds, that left Kaede feeling most uneasy.
She watched the changing scenery with a grimace in her one visible eye.
"This is…foreboding" She thought out loud unsure of what to make of such a drastic change in the weather.
"Something wrong M'lady?" A local villager standing at the elder priestess side asked
Kaede turned back to the questioning man shaking her head silently "No" She replied lowly
Her own inner suspicions were not going to do good getting the village in a frenzy of panic.
Then again maybe they should be worried, but of what she was most uncertain.
She sighed into the crisp air maybe it was just her own concerns over Inuyasha and the rest of the group getting the better of her.
They had left the village no less than a few days ago, but each seemed longer than the last.
Perhaps it was just she had become so used to their company since the defeat of Naraku, now having them absent was a strange new adjustment.
Then again she really didn't have choice in the matter having them leave needed to be done.
Still whispering a soft prayer for their safe return wouldn't hurt, Kaede slowly closed her aged eyes before humming a chant into the dying wind.
Hoping her words would be carried with the birth of a new gust of summer air.
Cracking wood slightly echoed off the tree bases it surrounded huddled figures curled by the growing fire.
Sango sat by the flames watching them dance more widely as she added another large chunk of wood she had gathered.
Miroku at her side enjoying the view of her flawless face lit by the orange glow.
Shippo ignorant to his hidden thoughts laid silently at his side curled up with a much smaller Kilala as they two lay sleeping.
Inuyasha was not so comfortable as the rest of his comrades, his entire body seemed to twitch with not very well hidden aggravation.
His sharp amber eyes peering into the darkness that now surrounded them, thanks to the setting of the sun mere moments ago.
"Would you just relax? They are probably just talking" Sango sighed eyeing the half demon mere feet away.
His arms crossed over his chest as he leaned against the thick base of a tree.
She could clearly see the frustration radiating through him, and she knew all to well why.
Kouga had been gone for quite some time leaving the group alone to set up camp once again, only this time Kagome had went to search for him, much to Inuyasha's protest.
She didn't blame Kagome for wanting to aid the ailing wolf demon after what they all had witness back in the village.
On the inside she was worried that her friend was out there somewhat alone, but she figured Kagome could handle herself much better than she use to.
Then again a small part of her was enjoying watching Inuyasha squirm in discomfort at the thought of Kagome and Kouga alone in the dark.
He deserved to suffer a little as far as she was concerned, Kagome was beyond trust worthy and that was something he would never be able to say.
"Talking? Ha!" Inuyasha snapped back at the demon slayer.
He knew Kouga well enough to know what would run through his dirty little mind all alone with Kagome.
Just the thought of that mangy wolf eyeing his mate to be was enough to set his blood boiling.
Were it not for the lecture he was sure to get once finding Kagome. He would have no problem going into the forest and dragging her back to camp, with or without the wolf!
Sango sighed looking back to the fire, how Kagome had the patience to deal with such half demon she would never know.
"It feels so warm over here!" A feminine voice cheered from the shadow of the forest.
Inuyasha pushed off the tree base he leaned against knowing who was about to step through the darkness.
Kagome came walking into camp calmly her form instantly revealed with the bright glow of the camp fire.
Sango greeted her with a smile as Kagome walked to the demon slayers side before sitting down.
Blissfully ignoring the glares from the obviously fuming half demon she had carelessly passed.
The last thing she wanted was to get into an argument, she was much to tired for that.
So just ignoring her future mate was the most pleasing option.
"Just where the hell have you been?" Inuyasha barked at her eyeing that Kouga was surprisingly not at her side.
Kagome sighed heavily, well there went that plan "Talking" She simply stated
Sango looked from Kagome to Inuyasha a look written on her face that seemed to secretly say she had been write all along.
Inuyasha snorted under his breath seeing the demon slayers smug look.
"Kagome? What happened to Kouga?" Sango asked almost wanting to milk the situation as much as she could at Inuyasha's expense.
"He should be coming shortly, he sent me ahead" Kagome admitted.
Kouga had said he wanted to spend a little more time at the wolfs grave before following her back to camp, she didn't protest seeing that she had comforted him as best she could.
He seemed to be in a much light mood now, she was happy to say.
"I think I'm gonna go have a talk with the flea bag" Inuyasha barked turning his back to the camp about to charge into the forest.
"Inuyasha" Kagome warned turning to face him since entering the camp site.
Inuyasha didn't heed her warning as he went flying into the darkness of the trees.
Sango placed a hand on Kagome's shoulder hoping to keep her in place from charging after the half demon.
"Let it go Kagome, maybe a little scrap will be good for the two of them." Sango admitted
She knew Inuyasha hated Kouga but would most likely never kill him, he wasn't brave enough to face Kagome if he ever did such a thing.
Kagome sighed in reluctant agreement, there was just no getting through to him when he was in a mood like that.
Inuyasha sprinted by blurred trees and swaying underbrush for mere seconds before Kouga's unmistakable scent flooded his nostrils.
With a quick last burst of speed he came flying into a partial clearing, Kouga standing mere feet from him now.
No doubt the flea bag was headed back to camp.
He watched Kouga's eyes widen in surprise at the sight of him just landing in front of him.
The look quickly faded into hidden anger "What the hell do you want mutt?" He snarled
Inuyasha straightened up from his sprinting stance to speak clearly with the wolf demon before him.
"To give you some obviously needed advice" He snapped
Kouga raised a brow almost curious to know what the mutt had to say that was so important he ran all the way out here.
"You seem to be getting a little to comfortable around Kagome" He snarled his amber eyes lit with the glow of suppressed fury
Kouga fought back a growl "What ever happens between me and Kagome is none of your damn business!"
Inuyasha felt his clawed fingers curl into a fist, he took a sharp step forward making sure Kouga watched his every move.
"Listen good wolf because I'm only going to say this once. She is mine, so keep your filthy paws off!" He seethed
Kouga felt his fangs hang over his bottom lip this was becoming a dangerous situation, fast.
It angered him more than words could say to have Inuyasha talk about Kagome as if she was some piece of property for him to own.
Kouga stepped forward he knew in this current state he wouldn't stand a chance against Inuyasha but he would make sure that would soon change.
"I wont be stuck like this forever mutt, and when I get my power back-" He took another step forward until he and Inuyasha were mere inches apart.
His blue orbs burning at the half demon, making sure his last words sunk in.
"I suggest you watch your step around me" He growled low and dangerous.
He would end on that note forcibly he shoved past Inuyasha making sure his shoulder rammed into the half demon as much as he could, before heading into the direction he smelled Kagome.
Inuyasha took a step back from the impact his fangs digging into his lower lip, almost sure he had begun to draw blood.
It was taking everything in him to not charge after that arrogant wolf and beat him into a bloody mess.
Were it not for the rage he would receive from Kagome for doing such a thing he would turn on the walking wolf in a heartbeat!
Inuyasha snarled into the night sky, knowing this was going to be one hell of a long trip.
The bright summer sky sparkled with droplets of rapidly flying stream water followed by the exited cries of a child.
"Go shippo!" Kagome cheered down at the small fox demon flopping around in the flowing stream they both stood in.
Kouga watched the pair through amused eyes from his current spot under the shade of a lone tree.
Morning had come and went fading away into a surprisingly beautiful day that Kagome was obviously enjoying to the fullest.
After traveling several more miles into unknown territory the group had been fortunate enough to come across a sparkling fresh water stream plentiful with a large amount of fish.
Kagome and the fox demon had been all to willing to climb ankle deep into the clear water and attempt to catch a few.
The area the group now sat fanned out on was wide and vast thick mounds of green grass and flat roaming hills.
All but the lone tree Kouga had so eagerly claimed as his to sit under.
He eyed the demons slayer and the monks location on the bank of the stream watching Kagome and Shippo struggle to catch the clever fish.
While Inuyasha sat furthest away in the opposite direction as him, something he could not have been more happy about.
The two had made obvious strides to avoid one another since last nights conversation, but he didn't let that deter him he was having far to much amusement watching Kagome.
She stood in the stream the pants and sleeves of her priestess attire rolled up as far as she could revealing her smooth arms and legs much to Kouga's delight.
Small stains of water seeped into the top half of her white kimono almost revealing untold skin that held his interest.
Then again just watching her smile and laugh so carelessly was refreshing in itself, something that was clear the mutt took for granted.
Kouga smirked at the sight of Kagome squealing when the young fox accidentally splashed her with the cool water.
Seeing her so happy calmed him and yet somehow at the same time worried him.
He had time to think over the mutts warning very carefully over the past few hours and the more he looked at it the more he saw it was true.
Perhaps he was becoming a bit to comfortable around Kagome, after all mated or not she had clearly chosen a life with the mutt over him.
Painful as those memories were he wouldn't open a box that had been sealed so long ago.
Kagome was a friend to him, a wonderfully close friend but a friend none the less and that is how she needed to stay.
Maybe spending a few hours away from her would do some good, but that thought bothered him.
He enjoyed her company more than he wanted to admit he had ever since leaving the village.
Kouga sighed knowing he should just leave all these complicated thoughts alone, what good could they do?
After this so called mission was over he was headed right back to the eastern tribe while Kagome was no doubt headed back to the village with Inuyasha.
Kouga leaned his weary head against the tree trunk he sat under letting the small streams of sun above sink into his tan skin relaxing him.
The east is where he needed to be, not here.
"Mind if I join you?" A strange voice asked causing Kouga to peek one eye open at the practical stranger standing before him.
Much to his surprise it wasn't Kagome who was asking for his company but the demon slayer.
Kouga quickly sat up eyeing the woman before him, Sango smiled down at the surprised wolf, two large banana leafs in her palms small streams of steam rising from them.
The thick scent of fried fish was in the air no doubt what she was holding.
"Go ahead" Kouga replied edging over so she could sit at the tree base.
She flashed him a quick smile before handing him one of the leafs acting as a plate.
Kouga took it gratefully, before looking down at the three small fish laid out before him.
Sango sat at his side her somewhat plate now in her lap her brown eyes fixed on her two friends still splashing around in the water trying to catch more fish.
Kouga shot a look over the woman's shoulder to the monk still sitting at the bank.
He already had Inuyasha on his case the last thing he needed was the priest thinking he had something for his woman too.
Surprisingly the monk didn't seem to care, instantly making Kouga think maybe he was reading to much into this situation.
It was possible this strange human woman was just being friendly.
"Uh Sango right?" Kouga asked unsure if he remembered the demon slayers name correctly.
Sango flashed him a quick smile reassuring him he had gotten it right.
"Thanks, for the food I mean" He stated eyeing the untouched fish in his lap.
It was clear they had been cooked fully much to his dislike, wolf demons weren't particularly fond of cooked meats.
He like most of his species liked raw and freshly killed food, this was going to be a whole new experience.
"Don't mention it" She smiled not bothering to give him a second glance her eyes still fixed on Shippo and Kagome a few yards away.
Kouga looked back down at the fish in his lap, he might as well keep up his strength it had been some time since his last meal.
With one quick swipe he picked up each fish before throwing them whole into his mouth.
The texture was incredibly crunchy no doubt from being over exposed to the flames used to cook them.
Adding to the difficulty of eating the small fishes there were more bone than meat.
Kouga chocked them down bones and all not bothering to crunch them any further in his teeth than he had too.
With a few dry gulps they were down, much to Sango's surprise when she turned to face him.
She lifted her leaf like plate offering him a few of hers, Kouga eagerly raised a hand in protest those had been enough for today.
"Not a big fish eater huh?" She asked
Kouga coughed unwillingly his through incredibly dry "You could say that"
He waited until she looked away to spit out a small bone that had reluctantly refused to go down.
"Uh don't take this the wrong way or anything but what exactly are you doing over here?" Kouga asked knowing that Sango had no doubt known of him all this time and had never made an effort to speak to him before.
Aside from Kagome Kouga didn't speak to humans, much for the obvious reasons.
"Sorry I know this is kind of strange" Sango admitted her own discomfort "But I wanted to talk to you, about Kagome"
Kouga raised a brow "What about Kagome?" He asked eyeing the priestess still splashing around ignorant to their conversation.
"I know Inuyasha isn't the most pleasant of people to be around" She began
"And?" Kouga asked impatiently
"But I think he does have a point about being around her," Sango continued
Kouga narrowed his eyes no surprise there that she would take Inuyasha's side.
"Kagome is like a sister to me but I just don't like seeing her upset over this whole thing" Sango admitted her motivation for speaking to Kouga
"What I am trying to say is, just be careful" She semi warned
Kouga could see her meaning now, she was solely concerned that all this bickering between the mutt and him would eventually upset Kagome.
Stranger or not Kouga respected the demon slayer for defending Kagome the way she had.
"Point taken" Kouga replied flatly towards Sango
Sango flashed him a quick smile grateful she hadn't upset him before getting to her feet, making sure to take her plate with her.
She gave him a slight bow before walking off back to the comfortable company of the waiting monk.
Kouga watched her leave him before his eyes switched to Kagome finally climbing out of the stream almost soaked.
Apparently his own inner turmoil was visible to the others human and all.
Maybe it was time he put a bit of distance between the two of them.
As much as he secretly really didn't want to.
Black swirling smoke clouded the mountain cavern a pleasing sight to the lone demon that dwelled within the dark haze.
The same could not be said at the sight of sun set upon the stone mountain bringing with it an unavoidable change.
Rygo sneered at the sight of fading light loathing the change that he knew was to come within moments.
He was a creature of the darkness and longed to be within the shadows of night, a desire he knew would go wanting.
He was forever trapped to dwell in the light of day while his counterpart lingered in the calm of darkness.
Then again he knew his other half couldn't be overjoyed at the thought of never facing daylight as weak and kind hearted as he was.
Rygo narrowed his crimson eyes at the countless clouds of black smoke all around him, his only comfort in this troubled time.
"Will you rest now?" A small voice asked from within the depths of his mind
"Be silent" Rygo snapped knowing it had been Ryga who had spoken.
This close to the change of swapping souls in a single bodies always made it more difficult to block out his other half's voice.
If anything it gave him more power to plague him with.
"Your mind is troubled" Ryga whispered still nothing more than a voice in Rygo's head
"What plagues you?" Ryga asked from the shadows
"I said be silent!" Rygo snapped hearing such kindness in his counterparts voice was enough to make him feel sick.
The innocent voice fell silent for what little time he could, he knew his control of the body was growing stronger with every fading ray of the sun.
Rygo could feel his strength begin to fade knowing he didn't have much longer till darkness was upon them.
He turned to the black smoke exuding from his body, the thick swirling clouds merging together perfectly.
Rygo had seen this many times before, his mirror to the outside world was forming.
Slowly the hazing dark puffs of smoke merged into a perfect circle before glowing dimly an image as clear as glass and as shifty as water appeared.
A strong looking demon sitting alone on a cliff side watching as the outside sun began to fade away.
Raven haired and blue eyed, an odd but handsome looking demon.
"Ah" Rygo smiled despite his fading strength "This demon, he is bond to us"
Even through the uncertainty of the mirror Rygo could feel his dark magic at work within the wolf demon.
"This is going to be most promising" He smirked
"That demon…much chaos surrounds him" Ryga's frail voice whispered through Rygo's lips.
"He will bring death and blood" Ryga almost wept at the sight he could clearly see laid out before Kouga's unsuspecting future.
Rygo smiled feeling the last of his control fade away.
"Yes"
The once bright exuberant rays of the now fading sun drained the color of day away.
Replacing it with no more than deep shades of blue and gray across a seemingly endless sky.
All this beautiful chaos of the changing of the day did not go unnoticed by Kouga.
He sat watching the world grow darker around him, planted firmly on a cliff peek his legs crossed beneath him.
His bright eyes glowing with the coming of night a trait all wolf demons had.
His face was calm watching the color of the forest below slip away he welcomed the night hoping it would deter his clouded mind.
He had made good on his secret vow to distance himself from Kagome narrowly sparing her a glance through out the course of the day.
It troubled him to be so distant with her but he knew it was for the best, much more than for just one reason.
There slowly peeking out from beyond the horizon a black stone mountain could be seen through his demon eyes alone.
He knew that had to be the place of which Kaede had spoken of, even from here he could feel a dark aura around that place.
It pleased him to know that he had come so far in such a seemingly short time, though he knew it would be a few more days before reaching said mountain.
Though he wished that could be different the faster he could reach the black peeks the faster he could return home.
Maybe Kagome wouldn't notice his distraction or reluctance to be at her side over the next few days.
After all she had the mutt to keep her company, he knew not spending as much time with her as he would have liked must have overjoyed Inuyasha.
He hoped the mutt didn't think he had intimidated him into making this decision.
The last thing he needed was for Inuyasha to think he could be so easily bullied.
Kouga sighed into the now night air crossing his arms over his armored chest.
His clouded thoughts shielding him from the pair of almost concerned eyes watching him from below the peek ledge.
Kagome stood at the groups ledge watching Kouga in silence as her companions sat silently around a glowing fire.
Most didn't seem to mind but that could not be said for Inuyasha watching his soon to be mate eyeing another male for whatever reason.
Kagome sighed ignorant to his glares in her direction her thoughts to far gone with another.
Secretly she wondered if she had upset Kouga somehow, since leaving the stream he had been more than distant.
She he caught him staring at her blankly on the occasion but other than that he never spoke a word.
She thought back to the events of the last few days trying to piece together some form of explanation on what she had done to cause him to act this way.
She was blank, every situation that could have caused him annoyance or anger they had gotten over within a few minutes.
So why the sudden change? Her only obvious answer to her unasked question had to be that this had something to do with Inuyasha.
After all he had spoken privately with him, once leaving camp to find him in the woods.
Had he said something? He couldn't possibly told him to stay away from her? Could he?
Kagome huffed an aggravated sigh, who was she kidding? Such things were definitely in Inuyasha's jealous nature.
She turned partially back to the silent group her eyes fixed on Inuyasha above all else.
"I'm going to go check on Kouga" She stated simply trying to hid the clear anger in her voice directed at the half demon.
She turned from him before he could mutter a reply stomping forward her brown orbs fixed on the peek she would have to climb to speak with Kouga.
Nothing to troubling just as difficult as walking up a very steep hill.
The others in the group didn't bother to reply knowing what was to come.
Inuyasha staring blankly into the flames of the fire quickly got to his feet in pursuit of his ill-tempered future mate.
Sango along with all the others watched him pursue her into the thin forest separating the group from Kouga.
All knew what was to come and in unison they all let out a heavy sigh.
Kagome walked carefully forward ignorant to the half demon stomping his way behind her.
Until she felt a strong grip wrap around her wrist holding her in place.
Kagome spun around facing Inuyasha who's clawed hand was clamped down around her.
"Inuyasha!" She hissed jerking her wrist free angered that he had grabbed her to begin with.
"Just what do you think your doing?" He snapped back "Kouga doesn't need a babysitter especially not you!"
Kagome felt her eyes narrow Inuyasha was becoming dangerously close to a sit command.
"He has barley talked to me today, what did you say to him!" Kagome asked heatedly
Inuyasha fought back a growl knowing Kagome had figured things out.
"The truth! He is getting a little to comfortable around you!" Inuyasha barked
Kagome felt her eyes narrow in not very well hidden anger "So it was you!" She spat knowing her suspicions had been confirmed
"Look I don't like you spending time with that wolf" Inuyasha admitted still in an clearly aggravated tone.
"What did you say to him?" Kagome demanded knowing it must have been something pretty bad to cause Kouga to shy away from her.
Inuyasha felt the restrains of his anger begin to come undone, why did his soon to be mate care so much for that mongrel?
"That your mine! And he needed to know that!" He spat
Kagome felt her sacred energy flare with the rampage of anger now flooding though her.
How dare Inuyasha say such a thing? Speak of her like she was just a piece of property! He had yet to even claim her as his mate and he decided to boast that she belong to him?
"Get this through your thick skull" Kagome began low and fury filled "I can speak to whoever I want! You don't own me!"
"Kagome" Inuyasha growled
"Sit!" She boomed
Instantly Inuyasha was forced face first into the dirt covering the forest floor the beads glowing around his neck making sure of that.
Inuyasha growled in the dirt trying to get back to his feet, before Kagome said that accused word all over again.
Kagome looked at Inuyasha helpless in the dirt before spinning her heels in the opposite direction.
She believed she had gotten her point across, should Inuyasha want more punishment all he had to do was follow her.
After a few heated steps forward she could tell he had decided to retreat to camp and avoid another anger filled command.
Now knowing she was temporarily alone she began trudging her way up the steep peek Kouga sat upon unaware of the battle that had just accrued.
Kouga sat calmly enjoying the peace the night had to offer that was until a heated scent wafted under his nose.
He recognized it instantly slowly he turned to the bottom of the peek knowing the figure that was to emerge.
He took another sniff of the air swirling around him, it was Kagome no doubt.
And judging by the different amounts of scents in her smell she was angry, very angry.
On cue Kagome emerged from the peek bottom walking her way heatedly up towards where he sat.
He could not help but sigh his automatic response was to think her fuming nature was no doubt due to him basically ignoring her.
He opened his mouth to speak mentally preparing his apology as he did so only to be silenced.
Kagome came right up to him then surprisingly walked slightly past him before sitting calmly at his side on the peek ledge.
Her obviously narrowed eyes glued to the dark horizon before the both of them.
Kouga turned to her his eyes glued on her clearly aggravated face "Did I miss something?" He thought noticing her lack of conversational anger in his direction.
He would have thought Kagome being the wild card that she was, would have come up here and tore him verbally apart.
After awhile of gawking at her wordlessly, watching her smooth face begin to loosen with lack of fury her breathing going from almost non existent to calming, pieces began to fall into place.
It didn't take him long to realize surprisingly her now well hidden frustration had nothing to do with him.
Much to his delight, it was hard enough putting distance between the two of them he couldn't stand the idea she had become angry with him.
"Kagome" He spoke softly hoping not to ignite her anger once more
When her eyes slowly turned in his direction he took that as his best bet to speak.
"Are you alright?" He asked hoping she had realized her anger had not gone unnoticed
"Fine" She replied a bit to quickly
Kouga raised a brow silently signaling to her that he didn't buy that answer for a moment.
Kagome sight at the look in his eye knowing she couldn't fool him that easily.
She turned back to the forest floor below a heavy sigh parting her lips "I'm sorry its just-" She began looking for a reasonable excuse "I'm a little cranky, lack of sleep you know"
She didn't want to display her inner relationship to anyone especially Kouga, it would simply feed the fire that was their rivalry.
She didn't get the chance for a change of statement at the sound of Kouga chuckling at her side.
She turned to him unsure what to feel. Was he laughing at her? Did he find her struggling for comfortable words funny?
Kouga could sense her agitation without even looking in her direction, his blue orbs fixed to the starry sky above.
"Do you ever get tired of it?" He asked towards the sky
"Tired of what?" Kagome asked a hint of frustration leaking into her voice
"Apologizing for the mutt?" Kouga replied turning to meet her gaze with a smirk
Kagome felt her eyes widen in surprise knowing she had been caught, she bowed her head in defeat.
Kouga had seen right through her like always, she was beginning to notice that was a very annoying feature of his.
Was it even possible to tell a lie to him? Or did he have some kind of demon sixth sense that allowed him to see when people were attempting to be dishonest.
"I know you Kagome, you're a bad liar" Kouga smirked at her.
He actually loved that quality, it meant she was an honest person at heart, and it was against her nature to tell falsehoods.
Kagome let out a small laugh feeling her inner turmoil begin to slip away.
"So what did he do this time?" Kouga asked referring to a certain half demon that had sparked this conversation.
Kagome felt her smile fade away instantly at the mention of Inuyasha.
She couldn't possibly tell Kouga the truth knowing it would only serve to set the two of them off on one another.
Knowing that the two demons were already on shaky terms she found it best just to give as little information as possible.
"He is just so…immature" Kagome admitted avoiding another lie in the wolf demons direction.
It was no secret that Inuyasha had a childish streak about him a personality trait that she grew increasingly tired of.
What could he possibly be thinking was going one with her and Kouga to want her to distance herself from him.
Nothing absolutely nothing, just his own immature jealously getting the better of him.
Kouga was a good friend and close friend and she was entitled to keep him so.
"Good to hear you admit it" Kouga smirked secretly senescing she didn't want to go into any further detail.
Kagome sighed of course Kouga would find this situation amusing.
Kouga peeked at her through the corner of his eye noticing the look of distress.
He knew the mutt had gotten under her skin with whatever he had said it bothered Kouga to see her upset.
Even more so that he had a part to play in her current situation "You know Kagome" He began in a low tone
Kagome slowly turned to him wondering what subject he was going to bring up now.
"I never did figure out how you could deal with that mutt all this time" He chuckled hoping to lighten the heavy mood before turning to her completely.
"Your one incredible woman" He smirked his face coy with taunting but his eyes darken with sincerity.
Kagome smiled a grateful smile secretly thanking him for the encouraging words. Somehow Kouga always had that power over her to pull her back out of a dark mood to a lighter much happier place.
"I'm glad you think so" She smiled eyeing the blanket of stars looming above them.
Now if only she could get Inuyasha to see her in the same way, than again she didn't think Inuyasha had the capability to be so enlightened at times as Kouga was.
"You know my offer of running away together still stands" He raised a brow
Kagome could not help but laugh remembering the conversation they had shared back in Kaede's village.
It was at that moment she realized almost all her anger towards Inuyasha had faded away at least for the time being.
She sighed happily before leaning against Kouga's shoulder her eyes still fixed on the stars above.
Was it to much to ask that the peace she felt with Kouga could be the same with Inuyasha.
At least she could enjoy a bit of serenity in the company of the wolf at her side, for now.
Kouga all to eagerly welcomed her action leaning against her in return.
Secretly he knew this was doing much more harm than good especially since he was determined to distance the two of them.
Being with Kagome so close to him was a hard battle to fight, maybe he could start separation tomorrow.
He looked down at her resting against him with a smirk.
Then again maybe not.
Kagome knew this action was sure to spark more controversy between the two of them but for the time she couldn't seem to care.
That thought didn't sit will with her, maybe Inuyasha's jealousy wasn't as immature as she first thought.
Could Inuyasha actually have something to worry about?
She slowly looked up at Kouga eyeing the countless stars glowing down at them.
No, not a chance.
Oh do you think so Kagome? Well think again! Everyone dips their fingers in the forbidden fruit in my stories!
So just another snuggly chapter of the two of them growing a little in the intimate direction.
Don't worry I have action scenes coming up very shortly and not all in the fighting category!
See ya soon!
