She felt humbled that he could trust her, she really wanted him to like her. What? Like me? As friends, yes, as friends. Phew!
He returned quietly and started the fire inside the cabin. Rin instinctly moved close to the blaze for warmth. The night was upon them, and the air was rapidly chilling. They were in silence as she watched the fire, and he roasted the swine. This was a nightly ritual for them now, as the days slipped by.
They ate dinner and she started a conversation with him, she did this every night. But he usually ignored her for the most part. So she was a little shocked when he answered her question. They talked a few hours before drifting to sleep.
Days rolled by, and they grew closer. They shared stories, tragedies, and laughs with one another. Before it was realized, months had gone by. Routine enveloped them, and he now allowed her to venture outside. She couldn't go far, and he had to accompany her at all times. She realized that if she asked nicely, he would surely let her go. But she knew it would be the death of him.
Unknown to her, Kagura visited every week or so, while he was hunting for food. She kept him updated on happenings. A few things told to him came as a surprise, but he kept their discussions private. Even though he wished to share with his friend, he knew he should keep watch of his tongue.
It was night time, during their seventh month together in the cabin. Rin had fallen asleep by the fire, holding the new batch of flowers he had given her. He looked at her, and couldn't help the smile that crossed his features. She was beautiful girl, and a wonderful friend. He thought maybe someday they could become more. But he was so uncertain in regards to so many things. Would he die? Could he ever be free from Naraku?
The quake of the earth tore him of his thoughts, as his body tensed. Rin woke immediately and shot straight up. She saw the look on Kohaku's face, and watched as he walked purposely towards her. She noticed the lack of emotion in his eyes and she nearly cried out. He was being controlled.
Kill her. Do it. NOW! He paused slightly in his stride, barely recognizing the tears on her face.
She could see him fighting the demon, fighting the commands in his mind. She would not flee from him, if he killed her, so be it. She would not leave him to battle this alone. She felt determination rise in her.
"Run. Please Rin. I can't…"
"No! I will not! You must fight Kohaku!"
He took another two steps in her direction, her feet remained planted where she was. Hot tears now streaming from her eyes. Oh Kohaku, why must you be forced to suffer so? His body trembled, and he took another step. His head now shook side to side, trying to rid the thoughts from his mind.
What are you waiting for? Strike her down!
"No. NO!" he yelled out.
She closed their distance and blindly threw her arms around his shoulders, pulling him to her. Clinging to his rigid body. She felt him shudder from the inner battle, and held him closer.
The door of the cabin burst open, flying off it's hinges. If possible, Rin huddled even further into Kohaku, as if to will his demons away.
It had begun, and she could feel the presence of him nearby. She had to find him, had to protect him from certain death. Some how, she would save him. She quickly descended onto the cabin, he was here. Rushing to the door, bursting through.
Shock was registered on her face. Her little brother was being held by a girl. And she was crying. Kohaku was still, and it didn't take long for Sango to see the problem. She ran the rest of the way to the couple, and put her hand on the girl's shoulder.
Rin looked up to see a familiar face, the demon slayer of Inuyasha's group. And Kohaku's sister. A new wave of tears, that of sadness, sprung from her eyes.
Whatever trance held Kohaku captive, was released. He saw Rin holding him, crying. Then his…sister. A single tear fell from his eyes. To Sango, it was the most wonderful thing she had ever seen. She knew then he remembered. He remembered everything.
