InuYuki finally meets with her stepmother and is informed of her choices, leaving her emotional and conflicted. Kouga tries to comfort her

Kouga leaned against the gates of the castle, tapping his fingers impatiently on his arms, his claws grazing his skin as he growled lowly. This place was fancier than his mountains, showing the aristocracy that InuYuki was born into. He couldn't imagine living like this, all this wealth and privilege, she had abandoned all of this to live by her own rules. This sort of pressure on anyone would be too much. His instincts told him this meant trouble, that this would end badly, telling him to spy on them in case things got hairy. But he needed to be respectful, he knew if he tried to enter the castle without being welcomed, he would be acting sensed the gaze of servants watching him, he knew that little imp and Sesshoumaru would be lingering around somewhere. He just hoped they didn't run into one another. He just hated waiting, being left uniformed of what was happening, having to silently reflect until she returned. He didn't like this, his gut told him that something didn't feel right.

InuKimi summoning InuYuki so shortly after Sesshoumaru arranged their engagement, so many drastic changes occurring so shortly after the other. They'd been engaged maybe a few months now, it still didn't feel real that they were to be married. First her brother was involved and now her stepmother, they were intent on caging her, closing off her options and making her choose. They wanted to make her feel helpless, take away what little power and influence she had. The more they pressured her the more she wanted to rebel, he had come to assure she was safe and if anything happened he would intervene. His acute hearing meant he could hear the conversation clearly, but he chose to ignore it out of respect, trusting InuYuki would be safe.

InuYuki felt her heart hammering in her chest, her hands trembling, her fangs digging into her lips, her claws buried into her palm, her stomach in knots. She tried to calm herself, focus on anything else, she just needed to get through this moment. She promised herself she would distance herself from this part of her life, the brief time she called this place home. Coming back to this place after so many centuries, after having tried to erase it from her memory, ghosts from her past began to haunt her, glimpses of her old life, glimpses of her childhood. Before she realised the cruelty of life and the hardships of being a half breed, before she was reminded of her place in the world as a lesser specimen. She was never summoned to her stepmothers palace without reason, they had agreed to communicate from afar, allowing the other to live their life in peace. They had respectable boundaries and she never involved herself unless necessary. She gave InuYuki the opportunity to express herself and prove she was capable of making decisions on her own responsibly. Only ever being summoned for political reasons or for occasional family gatherings which were rare. She already guessed who was behind this, Sesshoumaru had to have been involved to set this up, intent on furthering his decision and making the marriage date closer, sealing her fate.

Kichirou asked if he should accompany her, he was willing to travel with her, leaving the village unattended in order to support her. As much as she wanted him here, she knew he would be in danger and she couldn't risk that. He could be used as an example to make her give him up, to make her abandon him. So she asked him to stay behind and wait for her, she explained she would be fine but a messenger would be sent to inform him of her return.

Kouga had said he would make sure she would come home safe, accompanying her as far as necessary, knowing he would be welcomed. Using his status as a prince and her fiance to his advantage, seeing how his influence could help protect her. Distracting her from what was to come by making small talk or occasional jokes to ease her anxiety. She had to admit his presence had been calming and she felt the tension gnawing at her ease away. However, being a full demon he was allowed to enter the palace domain, but waited at the gates for her out of respect. She hated having to face this alone, she hated being her own hero at a time like this. It felt like the world was against her and she needed at least one person to fall back on. She had turned back to him in confusion, expecting him to come and meet his mother-in-law to be. However, he politely declined saying he would have plenty more chances to meet InuKimi, that their future encounters would be very frequent. Once they were officially wed he would be expected to be summoned on occasion too. Though a prince, this was a conversation between herself and her stepmother, their privacy was necessary. There would be many meetings he would hold that she wouldn't be part of too. But promised he would be waiting for her the whole time, saying if she needed help she merely needed to call for him.

She walked up the large purple staircase leading to her stepmothers throne, expecting her eyes to stare into her soul, the feel of the carpet underneath her toes. The wind softly blowing her hair as the clouds surrounded her, looking down upon humanity in all its insignificance, truly gods in the truest word. The castle in the sky overlooking the world, placing them literally above all else, showing their importance. Soon, she came face to face with her stepmother, smiling at her as she appeared before her. It had always scared her how eerily similar Sesshoumaru resembled his mother, the spitting image.

She hummed in amusement, wondering why InuYuki had walked instead of merely leaping which would have taken her less time. "It seems you've matured from the scruffy pup I knew so long ago, you've blossomed into a lovely young demon my dear. You certainly have your fathers eyes" InuKimi chuckled. Had she lived in the palace longer she would have become lovelier, truly raised as a princess and fine lady, in traditional kimono's armour and more. But she chose to dress in merely her fathers robe of the fire rat and a scruffy commoners robe. Once this marriage to Kouga was finalised, she hoped to send her a kimono as a present, one she would be able to adorn as a leaders wife.

InuYuki blushed, she was still awkward with compliments from others but she was getting better, InuKimi always spoke the truth, she never lied, she could be deceptive but never dishonest. She'd spent her life accepting that she would be seen as a disgrace in the demon world, a freak of nature. She spoke her mind freely regardless of who you were, something her son had inherited. She didn't wish to be rude, but she couldn't think of what to say "You... seem well" she stammered. She still radiated nobility, indifference, charm and attitude, she was the epitome of a DaiYokai, what people assumed when they thought of their kind. She had a way of drawing you in, InuYuki had always been somewhat intimidated by her. She was everything you would expect from a ruler, everything you would expect from a leader.

InuKimi chuckled, she was truly adorable when she was shy, it was one of her more endearing qualities "For a girl who always had a fiery spirit, you are quick to lose your voice under nerves". InuYuki was right to be afraid, but she would not inflict any form of harm onto her, she knew better than to raise her voice, she was trying to be obedient and mature. She had a passionate heart, partially due to her human blood but also her demonic nature. The two conflicting bloodlines in her fighting for dominance and control, both running wild. But she was afraid, of her true self, of her true nature, where her path would lead.

InuYuki shifted, had it been anyone else she would have been hurling insults and sarcasm. The gleam in InuKimi's eyes was always off-putting, one could never truly perceive what she was thinking, her words and tone always implied something else. The last thing she wanted was to be on the bad side of her stepmother, she could make her life hell if she so wished.

"You aren't about to be scolded, you may relax, I have merely summoned you here to converse on personal matters" InuKimi sighed. She could see the fear in her stepdaughters eyes, Sesshoumaru would berate her for the smallest things. Everyone made mistakes even demons, Sesshoumaru had many stumbles before he became who he was, the fact that he didn't have his own sword yet was proof he was imperfect. Had the situation not been so complicated she would have wished her blessings on her engagement to Kouga, praising her for finally finding a mate, albeit one chosen on her behalf. She could finally carry on their lineage and become an official princess. InuYuki raised an eyebrow, she waited for the answers she was waiting for, that could mean anything. Personal matters varied from any subject. InuKimi sighed, she couldn't evade the truth, as harsh as she would need to be, she couldn't allow InuYuki to continue being so reckless. She had lived her life freely for the past 200 years, she had been able to train her powers, survive, grow and learn. She had lived among the humans for too long and now she needed to return to her kin, the demon world. "My dear, you are still of royal blood through your parents, albeit a half breed. That status is burned into you no matter where you go in life" she explained. She was the last remaining child of Touga, their only daughter, she was expected to carry on the lineage of their family.

InuYuki blushed, she had never felt like a princess, not once but then Sesshoumaru hadn't been very accommodating or supportive. She had never been treated as such by other demons and she was never welcomed in many inner circles. She ran away from home because she acknowledged she would always be an outsider, Sesshoumaru reminded her of the human bother who bore her. The fact that she was always fated to be a bastard and nothing more. Her father was a demon general, one whom was highly respected and feared, centuries after his death. But she had never felt as though she lived up to his reputation as his daughter. Making her question her entire existence.

InuKimi softened, InuYuki had never known her father, he had died just as she was born into the world. Growing up without a father and living in his shadow was never easy for her. "I'm aware my son was cruel to you, I will not ask you to forgive him but accept my apology on his behalf" she stated, she had been harsh on Sesshoumaru for his treatment towards InuYuki, she had never chosen to be born. She wasn't responsible for their choices of their father and Izayoi, she had no home, she had no living family aside from them and without guardians she would perish. She would be raised among them whether Sesshoumaru liked it or not. InuKimi had come to the castle where Izayoi lived until her final days, collecting InuYuki and the few belongings she had left. She had introduced herself as her stepmother, the first wife of her late father and a DaiYokai like herself. She knew the servants would be all too happy to be rid of her, carrying her from the castle and into her new life, while the pup wailed for her mother. InuKimi had comforted the child while she cried for her mother, whimpering and sulking that her mother was gone.

InuYuki scoffed, Sesshoumaru had far too much pride as a demon to ever apologise for his mistreatment of her. He would never show remorse for his actions "I don't need it anyway" she muttered. She'd given up on any hope of Sesshoumaru ever acting like a brother towards her, the idea of him ever acknowleding her as one of them. She was happy with them being strangers. Now he acted like he knew what was best for her, intervening in her relationships, forcing her apart from the man she loved. Scolding her for shaming the family.

InuKimi chuckled, always so feisty, she wore her heart on her sleeve as much as she tried to protect it. "I'm sure you are aware, you have come of age to accept proposals, marriage, the coming of age of a female demon such as yourself" InuKimi pressed. She had hoped to avert such matters until she was older, allowing InuYuki to mature emotionally and show responsibility. However, she couldn't alter the decisions of her son. Just as she had been arranged to marry Touga when she came of age, InuYuki would be fated to do the same and eventually her son. Kouga was by far the finest choice she could ask for, compared to the distasteful demons who had caught wind of InuYuki. None of them could compare and none of them would treat her with kindness, she could not permit such a union. Many would seek out her hand merely to gain the reputation of wedding a DaiYokai, or to wed the only daughter of Touga. Caring more for the political position and influence that would come with it. If her stepdaughter was to marry, it would be when she was of age, as she was now. She wouldn't tolerate anyone mistreating a princess, someone of royal blood, it was shameful. Thus would forever be regarded as an enemy of the Inu-clan. She would rather InuYuki live a long and happy life with a mate who would treat her with equal respect and affection.

InuYuki glared, baring her fangs angrily as she stared down her stepmother, no matter how hard she tried to run she kept being dragged back to this conversation, it was as if all doors were closing on her, trapping her. Everyone acted like they wanted what was best for her, like they knew better. Of course InuKimi would summon her for that reason, Sesshoumaru couldn't make her obey but maybe she could.

InuKimi raised a hand preventing her from speaking "Calm yourself child, I'm not about to intervene in your courtship of the human priest" InuKimi sighed. She wasn't so heartless that she would tear apart her life causing her to hate and distrust her, she wasn't that cruel. The same fondness Touga had harboured for Izayoi, InuYuki mirrored towards that priest. They were drawn to one another and InuYuki felt genuine affection for him, InuYuki found sanctuary with him when she had nowhere to turn. But no matter how much she loved him it was not enough, relationships were complicated and loving a human was more so. Her gaze hardened "However, I do not approve of your recklessness, so casually relinquishing your chastity to a priest of all people when unmarried. You are a noble, such things are traditionally sacrificed to your fiancé" she scolded. Coming of age she would be expected to partake in the marriage ceremony and sacrifice her chastity to her chosen fiance, it was an honourable and precious coming of age moment, making a girl into a woman. Binding her body and soul to this male demon for the rest of her life.

InuYuki winced, of all things to be scolded for she had expected this one from her stepmother, she was a woman of tradition after all. She saw nothing dishonourable about losing her virginity to Kichirou, she trusted and loved him more than anyone, she had given him her heart from the moment they met, and so she gave him her body in that moment. It had been an awkward and tender moment, two hearts connected as they explored one another's bodies. Finally knowing the bittersweet pain of being with the person she loved intimately. Her stepmother wouldn't see it that way, she gave herself to a human, she mated with a human. She had shamed their bloodline and chosen to sleep with a lesser being.

"You may only be a half breed, but you are still half a DaiYokai, you are still of noble blood. You are your fathers only daughter and second heir. You have a responsibility to your reputation" InuKimi frowned. InuYuki was a princess, she had skills and abilities most average demons dreamed of, she had influence and status in the demon realm, she was a skilled fighter and inherited his prized sword. InuYuki had always been conflicted of her place of belonging in the world, torn between two species that made her whole. She knew many demons had been cruel to InuYuki during her adolescence when she chose to stake out on her own, she had no protection or guardianship. However, she was still a more potent half breed than the average demon, she needed to take that into consideration.

InuYuki bowed her head, she loved Kichirou, she loved him more than anyone, imagining him being absent from her life filled her with a loneliness she hadn't felt since she was a pup. The love they felt for one another couldn't be put into mere words, he was the person her soul felt complete with, the person who made her feel the happiest. Her heart always sought him out, she could always sense when he was close. She would never be able to endure someone else being his wife, he was someone she wanted to spend her life with, and he returned the sentiment. Giving him something as precious as her virginity was proof of that, but of course that sort of thing would humiliate her family.

InuKimi sighed, she could sense the overwhelming sadness filling InuYuki. She didn't want to make her stepdaughter cry, nor did she wish to become a villain in her stepdaughter's eyes. She merely wanted what was best for her and that meant making difficult choices. She was too young to understand the responsibilities of their family, too young to realise how loving a human was always tragic. But like all carefree and naive youths, she fell in love with someone who would only leave her behind. "I had attempted to educate Sesshoumaru, explain that you were too young for considerations of marriage due to your irresponsibility. But he's insistent on you marrying the wolf prince". InuYuki could have been removed from the village, relocating to the castle for more etiquette lessons, battle training and more ladylike thing expected of a princess and warrior. However, the situation had become more complicated, InuYuki had developed feelings for the priest, forged a life and created roots.

InuYasha blushed, Kouga. So even her stepmother knew of their blossoming courtship, unknowingly she'd been given the best match possible for a demon suitor, handsome, charming, rugged and actually a sweetheart. Kouga could have been a typical douchebag, prideful, controlling and vain, but he ended up being the complete opposite. Which is what made it even harder for her to choose. She didn't want to forget Kichirou, she didn't want to leave him, but she couldn't deny that she had a future with Kouga too.

"He's a surprisingly good match for you, though he's lesser in power than our bloodline he has promise. He seems very taken with you from what I've heard" InuKimi insisted. It was written all over her face, she saw the way her stepdaughter blushed at the mention of his name. He'd guarded the human village where she currently resided, making sure no other rivals came near her. She knew he was listening, she knew he would run to save her in a heartbeat if given the chance. He was already loyal to her which was a good sign, he would protect her during their marriage, through their lives. Kouga was a royal in his own right, he was the current heir to the wolf tribe and expected to take a wife. He'd had offers of multiple brides but had accepted InuYuki instead.

InuYuki blushed, she had hoped that she could keep her love triangle with Kichirou and Kouga under wraps. She wondered how many other people in the demon realm had heard about them. Even her stepmother could sense her blossoming feelings for the wolf prince and she couldn't lie about it. Yes, she had developed feelings for Kouga, as much as she hated to admit that he'd wormed his way into her heart. His gleaming blue eyes and silky black hair, whenever he smiled or smirked he flashed his fangs. The way his nicknames for her made her heart flutter and butterflies form in her stomach. Though she never expected it, he was indeed handsome, he was beloved among his clan, everyone admired him, he had a charm to him that she couldn't explain. He was a good man, he was a demon of rare morality and conscience, he was smarter than he looked too. He didn't impress her using cheap tactics or control, he proved his devotion in words not just actions.

"He's attempting a serious courtship of you, bringing you flowers, trying to understand your world. Trying to bond with you and prove his devotion. He seems smitten with you, acting from the heart. Wolves mate for life and he's chosen you as his bride. For a demon to be both affectionate and devoted is a rare feat. Don't take him for granted" InuKimi warned. Ayame, the only granddaughter of the northern wolf tribe was a potential bride for Kouga, having been his admirer from a young age. However, he had rejected her in favour of InuYuki. He'd crossed into the human world in order to become close to her, he was trying to prepare her for the life they would have together. He could have been cruel, he could have forced her to join him, abducting her from the human village and forcing her to live among his people. But instead he respected her boundaries and merely waited for her to accept him.

InuYuki sighed, she hated to agree with her stepmother, but InuKimi was right, Kouga had been nothing but patient, comforting and kind. She knew plenty of female demons who would happily take her place and accept his hand in marriage willingly. He wanted her to choose him but only when she was ready, only when she was ready to let go of Kichirou, only when she could say goodbye to her old life. He knew she had made memories in the village, she had a life before he came into hers, he never once pushed her and he never crossed her boundaries. He'd made it clear he would never hurt her and he would never make her unhappy. Even when she became a human he was still head over heels, she expected him to be disgusted or ashamed of her, but instead he was utterly smitten. Practically heart eyes, tail wagging and spewing word vomit.

"Loving a human can only bring you sadness, I know you too carry human in you. But the demon part of you knows you will outlive him. Loving that priest can only cause heartache" InuKimi soothed. Human lives were minuscule compared to a demon, gone in the blink of an eye. Humans and demons were natural enemies, priests more so than the average human, hunting down their kind. Humans had slain demons from the dawn of time, either fearing them or worshipping them like deities. She needed to accept that her demon side knew best and needed to abandon her life in the village, choosing self preservation over a moment of weakness. To choose the wolf prince.

InuYuki felt tears sting her eyes, first Kouga now her stepmother, reminding her that she had never belonged in Kichirou's world. She'd always known she was an outsider but she never wanted to accept it, both speaking cruel truths to her. She hated carrying the burden of perception, knowing she would eventually lose Kichirou, humans lived such short lives, so weak and helpless. Choosing Kouga would make her happier in the longterm and she could spend her life with him. She would move to the mountains with him, become his bride, bear his children and be accepted in the demon world.

InuKimi's expression formed into sympathy, InuYuki needed to think of this clearly and take her words to heart. She needed to make the smart decision, no matter the emotional cost. "I do not mean these words out of cruelty but kindness, I've seen the consequences of loving a human" InuKimi soothed.

InuYuki stormed towards the exit, her eyes shining with tears, red, swollen and puffy, instead of a family reunion this had just become a nightmare. She wanted to scream until her throat was raw, until her body ached and she couldn't speak anymore, until the pain in her heart ebbed away and she was left with nothing. She felt like her entire life was free game for others to judge and make her feel small and insignificant. She was sick of being reminded that loving a human caused sadness, she knew that. Every time Kichirou went into battle she feared losing him, knowing that every day could be the last time he ever came home to her. Worried that a demon would take his life, worried that the enemies he made would come for his life to spite her, worried there may be a day he would never come back. Worried he would slip through her fingers and there was nothing she could do, she would merely watch him die helplessly. She wiped her eyes on the sleeve of her robe of the fire rat, hoping that nobody could see her crying. She felt a great flood of emotion forming inside of her, she hadn't cried this hard since her mother died.

Kouga raised his head, hearing her approach, his tail wagging expectantly, his ears pricked, she'd been absent for so long he'd missed her company. However, his relieved mood was not to last, the enthusiastic and hopeful mood replaced with sadness. As soon as he saw her red swollen eyes, her drooped ears, he hurried to her side."You ok? What happened? Did that bastard Sesshoumaru do something to you?" He pestered. He wouldn't force her to tell him, if she wasn't ready to speak he respected that, but he wouldn't let her suffer alone. He knew he shouldn't have left her alone, he knew he should have gone with her.

InuYuki shook her head, clutching the bracelet he made for her, brushing her fingers along the wolf beads "She told the truth, reminding me of my position as a princess, how loving Kichirou can only bring me heartache" she sniffed. She wasn't angry at her stepmother for being cruel, she was angry that she had been delusional enough to believe that anyone would accept her relationship with Kichirou. Angry at herself for having hope, angry that she ever thought she was deserving of happiness.

Kouga softened, no wonder she was crying so much, InuYuki had to feel awful, this emptiness, this sadness of knowing she had to accept her fate and everyone was against her. He'd tried to soften the blow by explaining this to her, so she would understand, it was inevitable. But her world had been ripped from underneath her by meeting with her stepmother. The only person to support her feelings for Kichirou was the man she was betrothed to, the man who was arranged to marry her respected her feelings for a human. Hearing that from your stepmother of all people had to suck, knowing nobody was on your side. He hesitated, knowing she needed comfort but not wanting to push his luck, he'd already been on thin ice when he saw her human form. But he couldn't ignore her, he couldn't just pretend nothing happened. He'd always known that it was right to comfort a girl when she was distressed, unhappy or angry, trying to alleviate their pain. He hated seeing her cry, knowing she was hurting, that she felt like her voice was being repressed, that nobody was listening to her. She'd been through enough, she needed comfort, she needed attention and she needed love. He ruffled her head affectionately, scratching her scalp with his claws, sensing her flinch at first before easing into it, comforted by the gesture. She was surprisingly childish sometimes but he loved that about her. "Nobody can tell you how to live your life, that's your choice to make. I'll always be by your side no matter what you do. But I'll be able to spend the majority of your life with you. I'll try to make you as happy as he does" he soothed. She was a free spirit, a passionate soul, she was wild and untamed,she'd made her place in the world when she couldn't find acceptance. He wouldn't have her any other way, he wanted her heart and her soul. He wanted to share his life with her, make memories with her and keep her safe, love her the way she deserved to be. But she wouldn't have to watch him die like she would Kichirou.

InuYuki whimpered, Kouga was being so mature, he wasn't dismissing her feelings nor was he undermining her. He wasn't trying to replace Kichirou, he never had been, he just wanted her to love him as himself, that's all he had ever wanted. Just as her meeting Kichirou had been love at first sight for her, him meeting her that day had been the same sentiment for him. Why was he so nice? Why was't he being an asshole? He could have every chance to say "I told you so" right now, rubbing it in her face. Kouga was still willing to spend time with her, still willing to comfort her, he knew how devastating a blow this was to her and yet he wasn't holding it against her. He was willing to rush to her side when she needed it most, still willing to make her smile even when she was with another man. Still willing to wait for her to fall in love with him, still willing to prove to her that she was irreplaceable to him, just as Kichirou was to her. He knew she was being forced to sacrifice Kichirou to appease her family, that she was forced to sacrifice her happiness for the sake of family pride. She felt the tears falling harder, blinding her so she couldn't see. Her heart aching with sadness, anger and frustration, knowing she was being ripped from the man she loved, knowing she would never be able to give him up.

Kouga softened, she was accepting the inevitable, accepting that her fate was to become the princess of the wolf pack. He knew she expected him to mock her, make fun of her and remind her of how foolish her denial had been. He found no pride in knowing InuYuki's heart was breaking, pulling her to his chest, not speaking a word. Hiding her face in his chest, the scent of her perfume and demonic scent filling his senses, sweet and addictive like honey. Simply holding her as she cried, silently telling her she was safe, that he would protect her and that he was sorry. Feeling her trembling within his arms, his words comforting her but the situation hurting her, letting her get all her feelings out. For the rest of their lives he would be comforting her like this, holding her close as she sobbed her heart out because nobody else would listen to her. He knew it was a terrible time to admit it, a sense of shame washing over him, but she was adorable when she was crying. But seeing her so broken, so sad, so dejected and hopeless, looking to him for comfort, it only made him want to protect her more. His hand still intertwined with her hair

InuYuki paced back to the village in silence, her eyes red and puffy from crying but she felt better, she couldn't remember the last time she had cried that hard. She felt like her whole world was ripped out from under her and there was nothing she could do to stop it. The way he instinctively pulled her close to him, protecting her, shielding her face from others, she was embarrassed that she'd cried that hard in front of Kouga like that, sobbing like a baby onto his chest, onto his armour. Tears staining her cheeks, her eyes bloodshot and eventually blowing snot from her nose. Embarrassed that she looked a mess, that she showed such a vulnerable side of herself. Kouga had held her until she stopped, letting her cry on his chest until she couldn't cry any more, he glared at anyone who came near or gave them odd looks. Growling defiantly, warning them not to come close to her. When she eventually stopped, he merely comforted her in a soft voice and asked her if she felt better, holding her face in his hands, checking in on her. She had to admit, the tenderness he had shown when she was still teary eyed had been rather attractive, making her stomach flutter. She felt better for it but she also felt exhausted. She just wanted to hide away for a while, away from roaming eyes, she knew for a fact with all this political drama she would be drawing attention. She was a hot topic of conversation, people discussing the daughter of Touga being engaged at last. Like she could sleep for weeks, blacking out the world and forgetting her life and responsibilities.

Kouga peered at her silently, she hadn't spoken a word since they left her stepmothers palace, withdrawing into herself for comfort. He assumed this was a defence mechanism she had used since she was a young child. But he would still take care of her, make sure she had everything she needed "You hungry?" Kouga asked abruptly. They hadn't eaten much today, for all demons had higher stamina than humans they still needed food and sustenance. Crying used up a lot of energy, though not as much as humans would.

InuYuki blinked? Her eyes flicking to his as she shot him a confused expression, he was thinking about food at a time like this?

Kouga saw her expression, knowing what she was thinking, he merely shrugged, unfazed by her shock "I mean, if I'd cried that hard I'd be starving" Kouga stated. His tribe provided for one another, making sure everyone was fed and cared for. Everyone took turns going on a hunt to find food to feed the pack, making sure everyone got enough to eat. Now that she was to become his wife, the future bride of the pack, she would become a priority. She would not only take part in hunts but her fellow pack members would bring her gifts. InuYuki ducked her head shyly, her stomach gurgling quietly, reminding her of her depleted energy and appetite. She nodded silently. Kouga smiled "Lets see if I can find us some grub huh?" he suggested, they'd feel better once they ate.

InuYuki scarfed into peaches, swallowing as many as her stomach would allow, her fangs sinking deep into the flesh of the fruit, inhaling large chunks. The sweetness of the juices spilling down her lips, the taste of the flesh filling her. She had never thought she could feel such hunger in her life, forever grateful for Kouga's sense of smell. This made her feel better, her mood improving, comforting her wounds with something delicious. Kouga watched her in awe and curiosity as he watched her inhale peaches, he knew she was stressed and she was upset. But he never actually thought her appetite was that strong "Wow, you really were hungry" he chuckled. She was like a woman starved, as though she had been denied a good meal, like this was the first time she was seeing food.

InuYuki sighed in content, licking the juices from her fingers, not wasting a drop, her mind wandering to happier times. The memories of living with the last person she called a parent, she remembered being small, her mother getting bowls of fruit for her. Watching InuYuki with fondness as she enjoyed her snack, not caring if the servants gave them odd looks, always providing for her. She licked the nectar from her fingers, her empty stomach now partially filled. Kouga had been nothing but patient, comforting and supportive this whole time, she couldn't be more grateful "I.. thanks for this… you already travelled so far for my summoning. Now you're cheering me up" she sighed.

He couldn't imagine what it was like for her growing up, a father who was absent, a brother who despised her and a distant but nurturing godmother. Never knowing genuine love or care "Families are complicated, not your fault your dads side happen to be assholes" Kouga hummed. InuYuki snorted in amusement, she would never admit she was related to aristocrats of the demon world, most common demons still had a hard time believing she was Touga's daughter and the younger sister of Sesshoumaru. He couldn't be more accurate, his perception was at times admirable and surprising. Kouga hummed softly "I mean your crying face is adorable, but I prefer it when you smile", when she smiled from her heart, when she felt safe and genuinely loved. Her smile was so bright it was blinding, he felt his heart flutter whenever he was around her. He had a gut feeling she didn't smile like that for everyone.

InuYuki coughed, nearly choking on peach flesh, staring at him defensively, her face flushing red to match her kimono "What the hell? You weirdo" she snapped. He just sprung that on her without warning, telling her that she was adorable when she was crying? I mean he was saying it to make her feel better but she was still flustered.

Kouga shrugged, he wasn't ashamed to tell her that he cared for her. Over time he was bound to witness all different sides of her, both her positive and negative sides. But that was a genuine relationship, accepting the good with the bad. Working through it together, learning and growing. "I love all parts of you, when you're shy, when you're angry, I mean your human side is the cutest to date but... I like all of what makes you who you are" he explained. He loved her human side, he loved her demon side, he loved it when she was stubborn and when she was happy.

InuYuki blushed, no demon had ever told her to her face that they accepted her as she was, that had to be the most romantic thing he'd said to her. Knowing Kouga was speaking from the heart, that for him this was it. His devotion for her was sincere, rivalling Kichirou, but she was scared he would be frightened off if she showed her ugly side "Even if I turned full demon and lost control" she muttered.

Kouga sighed, he knew that all half demons had a risk of losing control to the potency of their demon blood. But many found a sense of balance and learned to control it. He would never let her hurt anyone, and he would help snap her out of it if she ever transformed "We'll cross that bridge when we get to it. But you underestimate my demon power, I'm not a weakling" he reassured her. He'd taken on worse full demons and won, he would be able to handle her if she turned feral.

Kichirou paced, he'd tried to keep himself distracted with fighting demons, healing the villagers and going about his duties, but she was still on his mind. He longed for her, he yearned for her, wishing he was where she was. Her absence was felt by all the village, everyone waiting for her return, wondering what had become of her. He hated her being alone with him, knowing he was supposed to be her betrothed, that Kouga could be trying to flirt with her. Another man protecting her in his place, InuYuki relying on another man instead of him. He was worried about InuYuki, she was far more vulnerable than she let on and all of this had been effecting her deeply, she'd been summoned by her stepmother, the biological mother of her half brother. She was the matriarch of their family, she had higher authority than her son, if she made commands towards InuYasha, she would have to obey them without question. He could only assume the worst, his mind wandering to all the most heartbreaking scenario's, wondering what strings they were pulling. While he wasn't keen on the fact that she was in the company of Kouga, feeling as though her heart was slowly distancing from him, knowing they had been growing closer with each passing day. Kouga could at least protect her better than could, his demonic abilities came in handy at a time like this, hoping she came home safe.

"Onii-chan" Kaede asked, approaching timidly, his brother had been distant, his mind wandering, his heart yearning. He was deeply affected in his priest duties and everyone could see it. He respected if he wanted to be alone with his thoughts, but he wanted him to be able to speak to him should he need to. He wanted his brother to know he loved and admired him more than anyone.

Kichirou sighed, his brother was becoming aware of his distress, dragged into a situation he shouldn't be in. "Gomen Kaede, I can't seem to settle myself" he apologised, he had people relying on him, he couldn't falter, InuYuki could handle herself. He could be patrolling the village, warding off enemies, tending to his herbal garden, instead he was staring into the distance.

Kaede softened, watching another man trying to steal away his woman, who could possibly be unaffected by that? His brother's first love was being courted by a demon of all things. "She's your girlfriend, you love her, she's become family to us. Worrying for her welfare is expected of you" he soothed. InuYuki wasn't like other demons, she was kind, loyal and sweet, she was the best match for his brother. His brother had fallen in love, he'd met the woman he wanted to spend his life with. He was expected to feel jealousy and anger of the situation he was forced into, it was a human reaction.

Kichirou smiled, sometimes he forgot that by avoiding adult conversations with Kaede prevented them from having heart to hearts. Being able to speak as brothers despite their age difference was always comforting, knowing they could confide in one another. He knew Kaede had come to love InuYuki as a sister, welcoming her as part of the village. Knowing that InuYuki was being bullied and pressured by her demon family, forced to live the life they wanted for her. "Are you worried about her too Kaede?" he asked.

Kaede frowned, InuYuki had been hiding her problems from the village, trying not to get them involved. "Ever since that wolf prince showed up you've been depressed, he's ruining everything" he huffed. InuYuki was being distanced from him, she was being separated from him and she was being forced to make an unhappy choice. She belonged in the village, she belonged with his brother, but her family wanted her to marry another demon. Kichirou was forced to tolerate it because he was human, in the laws of demons he was insignificant and meaningless, he had no value to them.

Kichirou chuckled, Kaede's brutal honesty was amusing "He is indeed a nuisance, but he does care for InuYuki in his own way, but whoever she chooses is for her heart to decide" he reflected. He would never try to control InuYuki, he would never assume he knew what she wanted. He merely wanted her to be happy, even if her happiness wasn't with him.

Kaede frowned, he hated that Kichirou had accepted that InuYuki had to choose, that he wasn't the only person for her. He knew InuYuki loved him with her whole heart and she would do anything for him. "She loves you, that wolf may be a demon but you have her heart" Kaede reassured him, she would kill for him, rip the world apart for him.

Kichirou smiled, the look of love they shared, that feeling of trust and comfort, it was irreplaceable "That I do" he agreed.

InuYuki wandered back to the village, relieved to be home, the sights all familiar and comforting. She felt like she'd been gone an eternity, the weight of her choices suffocating her, knowing she would be forced to leave this peaceful, hidden and idyllic life to marry Kouga, moving to the mountains, isolated, dangerous and treacherous. She would be forced to say goodbye to a life she had found for herself, that she would be abandoning people who had come to love her. The familiar sights of the huts, the scent of woodsmoke and the familiar aura of Kichirou's energy, she'd never been so happy to be back.

"Lady InuYuki's back"

"She has returned"

"Was she off fighting demons?"

"Where did she go?"

"That wolf demon is accompanying her again"

InuYuki groaned, god why did humans have to be so incessantly nosy? She'd left one invasive conversation to be met with the accusatory assumptions of the villagers. She already had her half brother and stepmother involved in her business, why did the villagers have to persist too? Why was her personal life suddenly so fascinating? Why was she suddenly the most interesting person on the planet? Why couldn't they just shut up? Part of her was tempted to glare at them and growl to see if it would make them back off, but then they would just be scared of her. Why couldn't they go back to tending to their fields? Tending to their livestock? Or whatever else they had to do?

"This really is a small village, even my pack don't talk this much when I get home" Kouga huffed, it was a wonder she didn't get bored out of her mind. The pack had more of a routine than this, everyone had a job, from the guards on patrol, the midwives, the ones who babysat the young cubs, everyone had a role. So many of the villagers here just stood around amiably but were otherwise lazy and irresponsible. Due to InuYuki's presence in the village, they pushed much of the responsibility onto her. Why bother doing work when a demon princess could do it for you? InuYuki scoffed, but she bit back a smile, she appreciated Kouga attempting to cheer her up. He'd been a great comfort to her today and she was relieved she didn't have to face it alone. Suddenly, a familiar scent hit her, her tension easing, she raised her eyes to see Kaede and Kichirou nearby. She had missed them both dearly, they had become family to her when she had nobody, the first humans to have shown her kindness since the death of her mother.

Kichirou's eyes filled with surprise at the sight of her, then relief knowing she was home. Counting down the hours until she came back, watching and listening for her presence. However, as soon as he saw her tearstained eyes, anger filled him quickly, storming towards them gripping his arrow. His eyes sharpened into hate, accusation and concern, directed at Kouga, Kaede following after him. He knew something had happened, something unspoken "What did you do to her?! I trusted you with her wellbeing and she looks defeated" Kichirou accused. She looked like her soul had been ripped from her, her heart shattered into a million pieces. Just what happened during her absence to cause her to feel such unhappiness? InuYuki's whole demeanour had changed, the life in her eyes was gone, she looked so empty.

'Kichirou..." InuYuki pressed, while she understood his anger and frustration, she didn't want to fight, she didn't want to argue, she wanted no instigations nor did she want to play mediator. This was all too complicated for her to explain right now, she just wanted to forget and enjoy being home, before she knew all this would be ripped from her eventually. She just wanted to be held, she just wanted to be babied and turn off her mind.

"She's been sobbing her eyes out, what did you say to her wolf?" Kichirou demanded, InuYuki never cried in front of anyone, not even him, knowing she lowered her guard around Kouga made it even worse. She was opening up to him more than she ever had towards him, this wolf was changing her. She had been deeply upset by something, be it between Kouga and InuYasha or in the presence of her brother or stepmother. How could he allow her to become so upset?

Kouga glared, of course he was the one to be blamed, it was just so easy to point fingers at him as the outsider. Now he understood how InuYuki had felt her whole life, so easy to blame the demon. Kichirou made it clear that ever since he showed up here he was tolerated not welcomed, he was only here because InuYuki hadn't made him leave yet, because he hadn't hurt anyone. Throwing accusations at him because he didn't know the truth, making him the villain purely because he was jealous. His blue eyes gleamed demonically, growling angrily causing Kichirou to step back "I didn't say anything to her, I've spent all day comforting her. The one who made her cry was her stepmother, she summoned InuYuki to her castle to speak of her engagement to me and shared some harsh truths with her. So unless you're willing to start a fight with a DaiYokai, back off" Kouga warned. He had only ever had InuYuki's best interests and safety in mind, he'd been prepared to shield her from her stepmother, been prepared to stand by her side but instead gave her privacy. He'd fight anyone to protect her, kill anyone to protect her, she was his future mate and he was responsible for her.

Kichirou's eyes widened, the weight of Kouga's words hitting him like a wall, disbelief filling him. Had the reunion with her stepmother gone that badly? Why hadn't she said anything? Not even the vassal sent to inform them of her return had said anything. He turned to InuYuki for answers, it seemed the conversation she shared with her in-laws had been far heavier than expected, forcing InuYuki to accept harsh realities she had tried to evade.

InuYuki bowed her head in shame, her stepmother knew her feelings for him, knew how much she cared for him. But she warned her that loving a human brought heartache, what hurt most was knowing she was right. She hated Kichirou being dragged into this, he made her so happy, knowing all of this would hurt him despite him having done nothing wrong. Her in laws would never approve of him, if they could get rid of him they would but they knew she would never forgive them. She would be forced to say goodbye to him.

"I...it's true, she was empathetic of the fact that I've fallen in love with you, that loving a human only causes heartache for demons. But she's insistent on forwarding the engagement of myself and Kouga. Our love isn't recognised among the demon world, she just reminded me of that" she whimpered. She had least listened to her, she had been more sensitive about the subject instead of shutting her down, ignoring her complaints and bullying her. InuKimi had never held it against InuYuki that her mother was the reason Touga left her, surprisingly they had an amicable divorce but Sesshoumaru was the only one who didn't see it that way. But she would still be assuring the wedding took place, officially binding them as mates.

Kichirou's expression filled with sadness, anger and guilt, he wanted to hold her, comfort her, reassure her everything would be fine. Knowing she would be forced to marry even if she didn't want to. InuYuki was trapped in a situation she couldn't evade, she was being forced to make a choice she never even wanted. He gripped his bow tightly, ashamed he had blamed Kouga and projected his anger onto him. "Forgive me, I'm aware your paternal side have shown you great cruelty and I was merely concerned of the risks you faced by going to your stepmothers castle. I'm aware Kouga harbours affection for you. But knowing you had to face them alone... I was scared for you" he apologised. He hated the idea that Sesshoumaru could have been bullying her during her visit, using his position to hold this over her head. Knowing he wasn't there to protect her. He knew InuYuki considered himself and Kaede family, she had never held any ties to her paternal side.

Kouga sighed wearily, he understood the complicated array of emotions this would form in Kichirou's heart and mind. "I chose not to enter the throne room with her, it didn't feel right and I didn't want to undermine Inu. But I overheard all of it, I mean her stepmother is more diplomatic and empathetic than her son that's for sure. But damn she's an ice queen" he chuckled. She had listened to InuYuki, she had calmly explained the situation and what was expected of her. He was surprised to find out she was against their engagement and thought Inu was too young. The fact that she supported their union was not surprising however. What she wanted above all was the happiness of her stepchild.

Kichirou softened, it had been a long and tedious day for them all "InuYuki, you require rest after your journey, you must be exhausted. If you need me, I'll come to you in a heartbeat" he soothed. She needed space, she needed rest and she needed time to think. She needed to process all this information and figure out what to do. InuYuki softened, nodding quietly.

Kichirou wrapped his arms around InuYuki, holding her to his chest as she buried herself against him, breathing in his musk, his scent, her eyes still red from crying. Burying her nose against him, holding him so tightly she dug her nails into his robes, she could hear his heartbeat within his chest, fast and fluttering. She never wanted to forget this moment, where she had shown her vulnerability to him a second time. He'd seen her at her weakest, as a human, wearing the face of her mothers bloodline. Now she was a broken, sobbing mess of despair and neediness. She didn't want to be alone, she didn't want to be without him, his silky black hair brushing against her skin.

Kichirou was only eighteen, in human years he was so young and had so many years ahead of him, but as a priest, his lifespan would be drastically shorter due to the casualties and catastrophe's that came with battling demons. While most teenagers his age would have left home, married a wife and had a life of their own, he deviated from the status quo. She imagined him as a normal man, working the fields, her by his side, tending to their children. Compared to the longer lives of the villagers he was destined to protect, he had a higher risk of being killed. She couldn't bear to watch him die, she'd had nightmares of it, so many heartbreaking scenario's flashing through her mind. She wanted to spend every waking moment with him, feeling so blessed that they found one another.

Kichirou stroked her hair affectionately, feeling her nuzzle against him "Gomen, I shouldn't have instigated that argument with Kouga, I owe him an apology for my actions. I was consumed by my own jealousy, insecurities and fear" he apologised. InuYuki had given him no reason to doubt her loyalty, she hadn't cheated, she hadn't been swayed. She instantly rushed to his side as soon as she returned. He had no reason to villainize Kouga, nor distrust InuYuki. The fear of losing her, the fear of her leaving him, the fear of being abandoned.

InuYuki softened, she hadn't been fair to him, she hadn't explained and she was keeping him in the dark, of course he would assume. He was as much involved in this as she was. "I didn't let you come to see my stepmother, because I knew she could hurt you. As a priest you would have been dishonourable in her presence, compared to Kouga who could hold his own she could have killed you in an instant" she explained. Sesshoumaru could have attacked him, strangled him, killed him, taking care of him in a heartbeat. He would be on thin ice the entire time, under speculation from everyone. She needed him to stay home where he was safe, knowing he would come to no harm.

Kichirou sighed, he would never be a suitable match for InuYuki in the eyes of her in-laws, they would never approve of him. They would only ever accept her union with another demon "Your family, they are insistent on your marriage to Kouga". They wanted her to marry someone of their choosing, someone they thought was best for her. No matter how much they loved each other, no matter how strong their bond, it wouldn't be enough.

InuYuki stiffened, she didn't hate humans the way her paternal side did, she didn't see them as lesser beings. She knew humans were weaker, stupider, driven by fear and greed. She saw the hate in their eyes directed at her, she would always be a monster in their eyes. But humans were also patient, adaptable, unpredictable, welcoming and decent. She knew there were kind humans out there, she had fallen in love with one. But demons were creatures of instinct, they were also greedy, stupid and shallow, using their status to overrule others. Many sought the approval of humans as godlike beings, prideful and vain. They were far from perfect despite their belief saying otherwise. But just like humans, there were decent, kind and well natured demons who had a soft spot for humans, just like her late father and Kouga. "I chose you, I don't care what they want, it's my life, not theirs" she hissed.

Kichirou sighed, he knew these words would be hard for her to accept, but they spoke nothing but the truth. "InuYuki, we were fated to meet, fated to fall in love, the red string binding our hearts together. I cannot imagine giving my heart to anyone but you..." he trailed off. He had always been waiting for her, whether he was aware of it or not they were destined to meet. They were each others soulmate, their hearts and souls connected as one. InuYuki hummed softly, a small smile forming on her face, they went from being antagonistic to one another, to trusting the other without question. Kichirou's expression saddened, his voice filled with anguish "However...I lack the demonic longevity that yourself or Kouga possess, there may come a day when I am slain by a demon. A day where I will leave you behind in this world" he reminisced. He was powerful, his stamina and other traits were higher than the average human but he wasn't immortal. There would come a day when he would depart this world, where he would either die of old age or he would his life would be cut short in battle.

InuYuki flinched, her eyes flicked towards his, hardened, frightened and panicked "I won't let that happen" she growled. From the moment she saw him, soaked from the rain, covered in dirt and blood, collapsing from exhaustion. She knew she needed to protect him, that he couldn't always defend himself. She would always protect him, she knew that nobody else would, he was always protecting everyone else. She would make do anything for the ones she loved, she would do anything to keep them safe, no matter the cost.

Kichirou cupped her face gently "InuYuki, I would give my life to protect you, to protect this village. To spend my days with you makes me happier than anything else in the world. But should I perish, should my life come to an end. I give my blessings for Kouga to be the person to protect you in my place" he soothed. He wanted to live his life with her, he wanted to spend the rest of his days with her, to share the love they felt for one another. But he wanted to know that someone else would protect her, that she would be in good hands should something happen to him.

InuYuki's eyes widened, she never thought she would ever hear Kichirou say such a thing. Kichirou was just announcing he accepted their engagement, that he accepted Kouga to love and protect her should he die. That he would happily give his life to protect her and make sure she was taken care of. She never wanted to imagine her life without him, and the sentiment was returned to her. But she knew if anything should happen to him, Kouga wouldn't be a replacement or a scapegoat. He would love and cherish her for who she was, loving her as himself. Kichirou knew Kouga would protect her and make sure his memory was never forgotten. "You better not die on me, I don't care if I have to act as your guard dog, I'm making sure you live a long life" she warned.

Kichirou smiled "I count on it"

Kichirou pulled a blanket over InuYuki as she slept peacefully, her chest rising and falling as she succumbed to her exhaustion, resting her hand under her cheek like a small child, curled up into a small ball. He'd held her in his arms until she passed out, speaking for hours until she could no longer keep her eyes open, soft snores escaped her lips. Watching her sleep brought him such peace, warmed his heart, eased the demons within him. He kissed her cheek fondly, causing her to mumble sleepily, he quietly exited the hut, the sunshine having lessened as clouds rolled across the blue sky. He sensed a demonic aura, his gaze deviating as a familiar wolf demon leaned against a tree nearby, knowing he would be watching over her. He stared down Kichirou with an accusatory gaze filled with hostility, still bitter at their interaction earlier. Kichirou sighed, he had some amends to make. "I owe you my gratitude, I projected my jealousy onto you. I'm aware despite my potent spiritual powers, I was not strong enough to face the danger of her DaiYokai stepmother. For you to take my place was risky and admirable, thank you for protecting her" he thanked.

Kouga softened, having not expected Kichirou to apologise, to own up to his mistakes and be the bigger person. He had assumed they would be arguing endlessly until they decided to drop the subject. He'd laid with her for hours, comforting her until she fell asleep, having a private conversation with her. They both loved her, they both cared for her and had her best interests at heart "I'm not going to throw her to the wolves like that..." he trailed off, both of them smirking at the pun. He knew that Kichirou loved her, he was willing to go against his whole identity as a priest for her sake "I know you care about her, InuYuki knows that her in-laws see you as a threat and could use you as insurance against her" he explained. Someone as cold hearted as Sesshoumaru would use Kichirou as an example, blackmailing her to abandon him. Kichirou winced, sensing the truth in Koga's words, he could understand InuYuki's world better than he ever could. "I overheard quite a bit of what InuKimi had to say about her life choices, about you and our engagement" Kouga reflected, this was stuff Kichirou needed to hear, it involved him after all. Kichirou raised his eyebrow expectantly, concerned of whether or not this would be good or bad. "First she softened the blow by complimenting InuYuki on her appearance and looks, which she was genuine about" Kouga explained. InuYuki was the most beautiful half breed he'd ever met, in both human and demon form she was a stunning girl. Her stepmother could appreciate that much.

Kichirou smiled, he remembered the first time he met her, those amber golden eyes of hers pierced his heart "She's a beauty, even by the standards of the demon world, it seems Inu-DaiYokai have that in common" he joked. They were just a genetically perfect family, incapable of creating unattractive children. InuYuki was always beautiful in his eyes, her heart was the best part of her, honest to a fault. But even he could admit she was a beautiful woman, none of the village girls could even compare to her.

"It's that royal bloodline, they all have exquisite genes, even her human mother was a beauty. They passed that onto their children" Kouga hummed, DaiYokai cared about their reputation, they cared about impressions and representation. This included children, this included appearance and more. Sesshoumaru was known for being handsome, popular among women, InuYuki had the same effect around male demons. InuYuki had his heart from the moment they met, realising Sesshoumaru's sister was indeed a beauty, but as time went on he fell for her heart, he was smitten by the person she was. "She at least had the decency to comfort InuYuki by reassuring her she wasn't in trouble and she wasn't going to demean her like Sesshomaru. I can at least give stepmother credit, she's no sweetheart but she does care for InuYuki. She shows her some decency and maternal care" Kouga mumbled. Nurturing and raising a child that wasn't yours, born from a marriage from your husband to another woman, it wasn't an easy ask for any woman. Kichirou eased, so her stepmother wasn't as cruel or abusive as her half brother, she at least had some kin that cared for her. "She acknowledges the love you two share, she understands that InuYuki loves you. But she also acknowledges that you're human, that your relationship is genuine. However, she also mentioned that loving a human as a demon can only bring heartache" Kouga explained.

Kichirou's face flickered with sadness, so even her stepmother knew the cost of loving a human, but then she had watched her ex husband fall for a human princess which ended in his demise. She had firsthand experience as a woman who had lost her husband to another woman, who'd perished protecting the mother of his daughter. He gazed at the clouds reflectively, the sunlight flickering through, the gentle breeze rustling his hair, his eyes grew heavy and distant. This wasn't an easy choice to make, but it was one he would need to accept. "InuYuki and I were fated to meet, fated to fall in love and find one another..." he trailed off, she was the person he'd been waiting for, the person who eased the loneliness within him. Two people who couldn't find their place in the world, who found belonging with each other. They were drawn to one another, InuYuki watching him from afar and Kichirou able to sense her presence.

Kouga scowled, jealousy filling him but he silently waited for Kichirou to finish.

"However, I cannot deny the evidence that you and InuYuki also share a connection, though she denies it adamantly she has formed some affection for you in return. But she will not abandon her life with me to appease her family" Kichirou explained. He could see the way Kouga looked at her, with a sense of fondness and tenderness. InuYuki enjoyed his companionship, he made her smile and she felt safe with him. She still wore the bracelet he gave her everyday. But she was loyal to Kichirou, she chose to defy her family and live in the village. Kouga softened, so Kichirou had accepted that he was in love with her? Accepting another man was in love with his woman. He was willing to look past Kouga invading his village, entering his life and courting his lover. He was willing to ignore his mischief, he was willing to ignore his blatant jealousy. He acknowledged that Kouga could relate to and understand InuYuki in a way that he couldn't as a human. Kichirou's eyes met Kouga's, his gaze hardened but calm "As a human, my lifespan is significantly shorter than yours or InuYuki, I cannot share her entire life with her, but I can share mine. There may come a day I will not be by her side, I will be forced to leave her behind and she knows this. She merely rejects the knowledge that she will lose me" he knew he would spend the rest of his life loving InuYuki, even when he breathed his last breath. He would happily die in her arms knowing she was the last thing he thought of. But he knew she would never forget him, she would spend the rest of her life missing him. The thought of having to say their last goodbye's broke both their hearts. Kouga's gaze became empathetic and knowing, loving a demon as a human was difficult, knowing that this person wouldn't age or grow old the same way you did. They would be immortal, living an extended lifespan while you faded into obscurity. No human ever forgot the demon they fell for, thinking of their bygone years falling for a mystical demon who was like no other human. Forever wishing to see them again and accepting that you never would. "My destiny is to battle demons, preserving the lives of others who fall to harm. I love InuYasha but I've accepted that someday I may face a battle I cannot return from. It's her deepest fear..." Kichirou reflected. The moment his powers emerged, the moment he showed his abilities, he was sent to a temple to train. He was destined to become a priest while his brother was still a trainee. He had accepted he would be alone for the rest of his life until he met her. Now he understood what he may be leaving behind, the hearts he would break should he be killed.

Kouga sighed heavily, he knew the divide between humans and demons would never fully heal. He knew many demons who slaughtered demons for amusement, but then there were humans who did the exact same to their own kind. "Not all of us, but there are demons who have respect for humans, the patience you endure, the hardships you withstand. You're so weak, you're so foolish and your lives are gone in the blink of an eye compared to us. But you endure, you survive, it's why we respect you so much" Kouga admitted.

"You love her Kouga, I do not enjoy admitting such a statement but even I can tell that you have affections for her. InuYuki will be safe with you, protected by you. Should some form of harm befall me, should Sesshoumaru plot my demise or I face an enemy that succeeds in ending my life. I wish for you to protect her, I give my blessings for you to marry her, but I only wish that you treat her well" Kichirou trailed off. Kouga had been smitten with InuYuki just as Kichirou was, two men who fawned over the same woman; they both gave their heart to her and would do anything to keep her safe. The way Kouga looked at her, it was a man of desire, lust and yearning. But more so he cared for her, he respected her, something that mattered most.

Kouga froze, his eyes widened as shock and awe filled him, these were the words he never thought he'd hear Kichirou ever admit. A strong sense of respect and admiration for Kichirou forming, not only as a man but as a warrior. All anyone could ask for was if they met their end, that the person they loved most of all was cared for, in good hands. Kichirou was making a difficult and hurtful decision, acknowleding that another man, let alone a demon was in love with his woman. He accepted his futile life, accepting that he would die before InuYuki and it would break her heart. That Kouga was in love with the same woman as him and they were rivals for her affection, but he knew Kouga cared for her the same way, he wanted her to be happy. He had asked him to love and protect InuYuki in his place, as her fiance should he be killed for any reason. Kichirou had spent his whole life bound to his duty, living carefree as a priest without distraction, until InuYuki came into his life and changed his perspective. He smiled sadly, he knew InuYuki would never stop loving Kichirou, even long after he'd gone part of her heart would belong to him. "You know, I'm starting to get a small sense of why she's so smitten with you. You've got determination, pride, a strong moral code and responsibility. As humans go you ain't all that bad" he joked.

Kichirou smirked, laughing stiffly, he'd never thought there would be a day they could consider being friendly "This doesn't make us friends wolf, but it does make us allies".

Kouga gathered his belongings, Kichirou had given him some food for the road, some onigiri, peaches and medicine for his clan. He supposed it was his gratitude for protecting InuYuki but also another apology for his behaviour. Though he couldn't offer much due to the poverty of their village, he showed his thanks for all he had done. He had to admit Kichirou wasn't bad for a human, though they were still rivals for the affection of InuYuki. Kouga reminded himself to bring a hunt to the village, a wild boar of some other animal they could find, just so they could show their thanks. They could spare a hunt, that food would go far in the village, be it dried meats, stews, turned into pelts to keep villagers warm or using the bones and hoofs for tools.

He knew the villagers would be relieved once he made his leave, knowing the demon had been driven from their village. But Kichirou had no issue with his presence any longer, he would no longer attempt to drive him away when he visited. He'd need to discuss the changes with his clan, that there would indeed be a wedding, it had been finalised by InuKimi. But the preparations, dates and other matters would need to be settled. He didn't doubt she would be sending gifts and other official things their way soon enough. InuKimi's official statement, what would be happening with his engagement to InuYuki and how they would go forward. When the official ceremony would take place, whom would be invited to the wedding aside from Sesshoumaru and himself. Whether she would be forced to relocate to their mountain clan under InuKimi's orders, or whether they would have their own castle like herself. Whether InuKimi would be spying on Kichirou in the future, whether she would use her position to get rid of him. Whatever happened they would be ready, but what he did know was that trouble was brewing.

"Kouga!" InuYuki called, she was relieved she caught him on time, she had woken up with a foggy brain and an empty hut. She knew he was leaving, but she wanted to say goodbye at least, she owed him that much after today. Today had been stressful and emotional, she was drained both mentally and emotionally, she didn't know what to do with herself. But she was grateful he'd supported her, she couldn't have done this alone.

Kouga smiled, she always came now, seeing him off as he returned to the mountains, it was such a cute gesture. He hated saying goodbye to her as he found himself yearning for her when they were apart, he had truly fallen in love with her. Worrying that she was safe, worried that she was being watched by her brother. He turned and smirked at her playfully "Seeing me off princess?" he teased.

InuYuki blushed, she folded her arms impatiently "Thank you for today, I really do owe you one. I didn't want to face my stepmother alone in case Sesshoumaru was lurking. You... being there really helped me out... I couldn't face her alone. It just sucks that... she's making me choose" she mumbled, fingering her wolf bracelet. She felt braver with him by her side, knowing that if anything happened he would be by her side in a heartbeat. Knowing she wasn't alone, knowing she wasn't trapped, that she had a way out. Sesshoumaru would be both impressed and frustrated that Kouga was there, knowing he would have to bite his tongue around the wolf.

Kouga smiled, nobody in her life had ever been on her side, nobody she could truly trust or rely on. Making her despise her demon blood, hating to be one of them. If he could renew her trust in others, in demons, to become the protector she needed, so be it. "Hey, that's what fiance's are for right?" he teased, once she joined the clan, all of them would protect her. She would have many looking out for her, everyone in a wolf pack protected the other. InuYuki rolled her eyes, but she couldn't deny the smile that formed on her lips. "Listen, me and Kichirou talked it out..." he trailed off, she needed to know they were on good terms, that she didn't need to worry about them fighting to the death. InuYuki's head turned to face him, her eyes wide with panic and concern, expectantly hanging off his words. "He knows how I feel about you, but he loves you just as much, we were both born to meet you..." Kouga trailed off, they both accepted they were in love with her. "So, he's made an official pact with me, that should he be killed, should Sesshoumaru get rid of him, should an enemy hunt him down, any reason he meets his demise. He's given his blessing that we can marry, that I'll protect you in his place" he explained. Everyone would know she was to be his wife, everyone would know that Kichirou wasn't to be harmed and was an ally to the Eastern wolf tribe. Everyone would know that if anything happened to him, Kouga's clan would get revenge and would become an enemy of not only InuYuki but himself. InuYuki gasped, Kichirou had given his blessings for them to marry? But only under the condition that it would be upon his death? That made her feel a little better, knowing the two men had reached a truce, but feared knowing Sesshoumaru could make that reality happen much sooner. "I'll be back before you know it, but I gotta head back to my pack, a lot of changes have to be made with all this new information. Gotta make it more accommodating for ya" he winked. He would be away for a brief period, he had a lot to work through and organise, safeguarding and other matters to take care of. But she would be on his mind the entire time, always in his heart. InuYuki blushed, admittedly she would miss him, she'd gotten so used to him being a regular part of her life she felt saddened when he left. He was the only protection aside from Kichirou she had. Kouga reached out to stroke one of her ears, caressing it fondly, watching her lean into his hand and enjoy his affection "Be a good puppy and wait for me". Knowing she had canine tendencies was adorable, the two of them often showing the more canine attributes of their demon blood. InuYuki flinched, a soft yelp escaping her lips, but yes, she admitted she would be waiting for him to come back.