Six months later…
Just as the wolf tribe had the upper hand, the oni were wiped out and was close to taking down the oni leader. A messenger came to Kouga that Ayume was not doing well with the cub soon to be born and he should return as soon as possible. Kouga was stunned. He didn't know Ayume was with the cub. Kouga decided to send back Ginta and Hakkaku and would follow after he defeated the leader. He didn't want to leave the biggest threat open to gain strength and conquer his lands. His most loyal wolves didn't want to leave their leader but his soon to be born heir needs protection. Without further argument, they left.
It took about 3 more days to take down the leader and give orders for his soldiers to finish up. He took off to go to his cave to welcome the arrival of his heir. It took him a day and a half without stopping when he reached the caves. He heard howling...a mix of celebration and sadness. Kouga felt his heart stop.
When he reached the cave, the crowd of wolves made a path for him to pass through. There lay Ayume. Her body was lifeless and pale. He kneeled down next to her and touched her face. It was ice cold. Kouga was numb until he heard a baby cry snapping him to reality.
Looking up he saw Ginta holding a bundle wrapped in fur with Hakkuka next to him, the cub crying...for the loss of its mother who carried it, protected it and loved it. He picked up Ayume's body and took her outside to place her in the already dug grave. He placed a kiss on her forehead and gently placed her in the cold earth. He stepped back and the others finished burying her while he looked on. The dark clouds rolled in and began a downpour of cold rain.
Kagome was walking from the waterfall towards her little hut. She had just finished bathing and was dressed in a soft yellow yukata and white obi. She headed towards her garden to pick some lilies when she saw a familiar figure. He stood there looking lost. His wet skin glowed bronze with the sunlight, his hair loose and no armor on but his sword on his hip. She walked closer to make sure her mind wasn't playing tricks on her.
"Kouga…" as she softly spoke.
He turned around hearing his name spoken from the one who he loves but was surprised to find her standing there...by herself.
Making no further movement except eye contact "what are you doing here Kagome? I thought you married that mutt."
With a silent tear falling from her face "he's dead."