Ok so before I start I want to apologize for the long wait. I never intended to go so long without an update, but my laptop got broken and the shop couldn't fix it, and apparently it's officially dead. I didn't even have it for a year so I'm really bummed, even more so because I have to continue this story on my phone now. So please excuse any grammar mistakes. It's hard to type on a phone keyboard. / Anyways, let the story continue! I do not own Inuyasha, all canon characters belong to Rumiko Takahashi! I only own my original characters!

Days seemed to bleed together monotonously, filled with scathing remarks, as well as evading the male who was unwittingly the cause of them. Cold stares were openly filled with mocking, as if belittling her for her impudence, her very existence. As if she even thought herself to he worth anyone's time, let alone someone as desirable, as powerful as the Western Lord.

Kagome had no disillusions about herself. She knew she was considered an unsightly female for her clan, having been told that so many times that hardly any remnants of her self esteem still remained. Now she was resigned, destined to accept her place as the unwanted, homely daughter who would inevitably live out her days alone.

God's above… her thoughts were so depressing today.

There was little that could be done about it, her father's lecture still replaying through her mind, along with the subsequent confrontation with Satori. That hadn't been fun to get pulled aside and threatened by her livid sister, poison coated claws being used to deliver a more pointed message.

'Stay out of my way'

Luckily her face had healed and no longer sported three long claw marks down the center of it. They'd since faded after forcing her to he confined to her room under the guise of being ill. She'd had to take all her meals there, the servants being her only company. Not even her mother or father had checked in to see how she was doing, as if she even expected that level of care from them.

'They were probably beyond happy that I could not interfere with Satori's courtship'

Indeed, she'd been kept out of the way and any attempts made by Touga to visit her had been denied. She only knew of this because Tokuhei had stopped to visit and informed her that he'd had to send the Western Lord off when he'd made an attempt to come see her. All at her Mother's orders.

Maybe she should just take it as a blessing? She wouldn't get attached to Touga if she avoided him, thus saving herself from probable heartbreak when he did turn towards her sister instead. Yes, view the situation as a positive!!

And to top it all off she was finally able to get out of the shiro for a while! Surely that was something to feel a measure if contentedness over?

At this moment, Kagome was resting in her favorite glade, a secluded field of flowers that contained a single small pond. She often liked to bathe in it when she was able, enjoying the cool water and the delicate fragrance of the wild flowers lining its' rim. She'd often fall asleep if Tokuhei weren't with her.

Luckily he was at this moment, standing some distance away with a relaxed, but alert posture. His silver hair was glinting in the soft light, falling against his armor in a satin curtain, contrasting perfectly against his tanned skin and bright gold eyes. Kagome always thought he was a rather handsome male, but having grown up with him as her protector it almost felt awkward to think that way.

"Tokuhei, how long so you think it will be before Touga chooses Satori? The sooner he does, the sooner things can go back to normal. Maybe it will even be better, since she won't be here at the shiro any longer. I certainly will not have to fear being gouged with her claws any longer." She joked, her blue eyes sparkling with mischief. For once she went without the annoying face paints and lip rouge, allowing her an all natural look that she was happy with. All she wanted was to relax, stroking her black pelt with a delicate hand while watching her protector turn to look at her.

His expression didn't portray surprise, undoubtedly because he was thinking the same thing. Seeing his Lady abused by her spoiled older sister was enough to make his blood boil. He detested it, and couldn't wait for Satori to take her leave. "Soon I hope. If he does in fact choose her that is. There is always a chance that he will see her for the spoiled, vehement bitch she truly is and choose the better option."

Choose the better option? Kagome actually snorted and turned away to view the multi-colored blooms swaying in the gentle breeze. "Satori is the better option. Just ask anyone Tokuhei. I've no disillusions about myself."

How could she when she'd been told her entire life that she was nowhere near as beautiful or intelligent as her esteemed elder sister.

Gold eyes narrowed as booted feet crossed the small distance between them, allowing Tokuhei to settle upon the ground next to her. "Kagome, you are so much more than anyone has ever let you believe. How do you not see this? You are kind, intelligent, friendly and outgoing, as well as beautiful. Your parents are blind, as is Satori. Blinded by arrogance my Lady, and in some ways I feel that your sister is threatened by you."

"Threatened by me…? That is preposterous Tokuhei. Why would Satori be threatened by me? What could I possibly do to harm her?" Her voice was dripping with disbelief, raven locks swaying as she shook her head before pushing a thick forelock over her shoulder.

She really did have no idea…

He actually found himself snorting at that. She was so unaware of her own allure, in constant disbelief when others did see fit to point out her positive traits. The beautiful inu simply couldn't believe there was anything remarkable about herself. It was quite sad in his opinion. "She is worried that you will take Touga-sama from her. I heard her complaining to one of her ladies about it. If you ask me her fear is justified."

Because she was the better choice. Anyone with common sense would see that.

Deep blue eyes widened in clear astonishment as she turned to regard her companion. "Wait, Satori is afraid he will choose me? She really should know better than that!"

"Clearly she does not. Touga-sama was quite insistent on seeing you when you were injured. He was not pleased when I had to send him away."

He'd also seen fit to inform said male that he and his mistress were leaving the shiro earlier that day. Hopefully the Western Lord would make an appearance after his subtle hint.

Kagome didn't know what to think now, not at this point. Touga had wanted to see her? He'd been displeased when he was unable to? And Satori was worried she, the unsightly daughter, would garner his interest? Absurd… she scoffed, pushing the thoughts away as asinine. If she let herself believe them she'd only be hurt in the end. Again…

Saddened eyes watched her internal self-deprecation, knowing full well that's what she doing, and nothing he could say would stop her. Much as he wished he could alter her views of herself…

Luckily he didn't have to, for another presence made itself clear in the glade only a few moments later.

The tall, heavily armored form moved like a wraith through the trees fluid and graceful as silver hair billowed out behind him. Sharp gold eyes regarded the two in the clearing, registering their companionable arrangement. Clearly they were close, though it could simply be due to the fact that the younger male was Kagome's bodyguard. Either way he was surprised to feel a smidgen of jealousy that it was not he who had been keeping her company. Although he clearly intended to change that, youki pulsing and alerting the two to his presence.

Both stiffened as such a powerful youki was unleashed, only briefly, but it's effects were enough to render the very air charged with the oppressive energy. Immediately they were on their feet and turning to face the new arrival, bowing at the waist in deference to him.

Kagome couldn't resist glancing at him from under her lashes, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment while she remained bowing until he'd given them permission to straighten.

"My Lady." Touga greeted calmly, looking his fill of the lovely female he hadn't seen in days. No one had told him much of her condition when she was indisposed, but he suspected she hadn't been ill. Regardless, he was pleased to see her out and about, giving him the opportunity to spend some time with her.

Gods knew he'd had more than enough of Satori's constant presence for the time being.

Perhaps those were not the thoughts to be having at this moment, leading him to make a dismissive gesture with his hand. "I will escort the Lady back to the shiro. Your presence is no longer required." He informed Tokuhei, whom bowed once more before ushering off with one last encouraging glance at his mistress.

Now she was nervous. Having not spent time with this male in several days, it did not feel as welcoming. She almost felt as if she were being judged, although that could merely be paranoia. However, she remained polite, her manners coming out in full as she stood opposite of the large male. "Hello Milord, I trust these past few days have gone well?" She inquired with a soft smile on her unpainted lips.

Had he ever seen her without a plethora of lip rouge and eye coloring on before? Not to his memory. It was somewhat refreshing to see, though he found her beautiful either way. What really called to him was her scent, Gods above it was so fragrant and pure. Any physical changes would pale to compare to even a subtle change in her delectable smell.

"I have been well enough yes. Although I was disappointed that I could not see you. Are you well after your illness?"

"Yes I am fine. I simply needed a few days to rest." Kagome replied, her tone bit betraying anything she might have been thinking or feeling.

Despite this a subtle hint of nervousness, of slight fear, was detectable within her naturally sweet scent. It gave him pause and inflated some of his suspicions, for just the day after he'd seen her last he'd run into Satori who carried the faded scent of blood under her claws. He'd known who's blood it was just from its scent, but had assumed the two females had simply engaged in a small spat. It was common among females, though tended not to be as severe as the fights between males. Why would Kagome be nervous if this was the case though? He knew that if he asked she would not tell him either, if she were inclined she wouldn't hide it.

So he simply nodded and dropped the situation for now. "I am pleased to see you feeling well. Would you care to go for a stroll with me? Perhaps in our inu forms?"

Such a thing would delight him as he hadn't had an opportunity to do so in some time.

She immediately perked up, her countenance becoming excited upon his inquiry. "I would love to! It has been a long time since I have transformed!" Her eyes clearly showed her excitement over such a simple pleasure, highlighting her innocence, truly making her seem like the young female she was.

He was a little stunned to see how animated she became, and how lovely she looked when genuine happiness showed on her dainty features. It even made her scent spike, her sweet smell becoming even stronger. Touga was not ashamed to admit that he took in several big inhales just to savor it, his eyes closing as he rumbled in pleasure.

Her scent would kill him… so pure… He knew she hadn't even been touched by a male before just by basking in it.

After several moments a soft sound of a feminine throat clearing had him opening his eyes to see a blushing female before him.

"Pardon me… but you did want to go for a run right? Or did I perhaps hear you wrong Touga-sama?"

"Ah yes, my apologies my Lady. I was simply enjoying your scent. Shall we go?"

Did he have to say things like that? When he did her heart skipped a beat and she became deluded enough to think that he actually liked her. Kagome shook her head before nodding and stepping back to release her youki.

Her very form pulsated, red energy surrounding her as her face became elongated, turning black before her youki obscured her from view, shooting upwards into the sky in a blinding shower of crimson which seemed to grow immensely in size, before it shot down and dispersed. Leaving a beautiful onyx inu in its place.

Shape wise she was the same as any female, feminine curves in the right places, but with longer ears and a thicker patch of fur over her chest. Her crests seemed to glow and stand out against her midnight colored fur, which glistened beneath the light of day.

He'd seen females of many species before, even one or two of his own. But this female was radiant, dainty and small, but undoubtedly lovely all the same. Touga was almost breathless upon seeing her in the true form of their race, his eyes taking in every detail for later reflection.

Only once he'd gotten a good, long look, and after a soft inquiring growl from his companion, did he allow his own transformation to occur. His youki being unleashed in an equally blinding display as his form shifted into that of a great silver inu.

One who dwarfed the small female to a great extent, forcing her to crane her black muzzle up to regard him. And she too was equally in awe of him. His silver fur was blinding in the daylight, blue crests standing out in stark contrast on his cheeks. He was huge, well over four times her size, making her feel a bit of intimidation from standing next to him. Even so, she held her ground and tried to remain calm in his presence.

Since when did she go from planning to avoid him, to actively agreeing to do this?? His inu form was as handsome as his human one, though it contained a primal appeal not possible to achieve when disguised.

Kagome was… too pleased with it. This was… not good.

But she couldn't turn her back and flee now, not after he had made his desires known. To do so was beyond insulting to one of such status, which meant she had to adhere to his whims.

Silver for glinted as Touga enacted a languid stretch to ease his joints after the transformation process, before shaking his massive head and pinning the little female with his full attention once more.

'Where to now Kagome?' He inquired in a series of deep rumbling growls, interspersed with a guttural bark or two.

'I thought you would tell me.' She admitted sheepishly. It was simply instinct to follow the dominant male, though some females deviated from that instinctive trait. Kagome was doing her best not to anger him out of fear of what her parents would do to her if she upset him.

Admittedly, she seemed rather distressed in that moment, her scent becoming acrid with anxiety in a way that displeased him. Surely, if he did not want her to lead he would not have made his inquiry-thus simply choosing a random path and beginning their excursion in earnest. He simply wanted to see which areas she liked to frequent in an effort to get to know her better.

'I would like you to show me any places of interest to you. That is why I asked you where you wanted to go.' He returned with a low rumble of amusement booming from within his broad chest, the silver due shifting with his hearty gesture. Surely if he had a human face he'd be smiling at this moment, golden eyes glinting in amusement.

Oh… well she hadn't thought of that… Her head was bowed, thick and in certain areas, unruly fur shifting with the downward movement. Rhythmic movements of her fluffy tail slowed in her contemplative silence as she asked herself a simple question: Where could she take him?

Perhaps someplace with fond memories for her?

One such place did exist, although she'd never taken anyone there due to its' deep personal meaning. It was her haven, her home away from the stressful degradation of her life within the ranks of her clan. A place where she would never fit in, so she sought a place where she'd experienced good memories. Where she'd experienced genuine affection.

Even if those times had long since passed…

Touga had showed her kindness so far, the likes of which she'd hardly ever known outside of a few select people. While she had no disillusions about him loving her, if he was amenable to showing her kindness… would it be wrong to accept it? For as long as it did last…?

Her mind was made up rather quickly upon thinking along those lines.

'I do know a place… it is somewhere I have never actually taken anyone else to. Not even Tokuhei. Do not tell him that though!'

Dainty black paws began trotting off through the trees, a mischievous look being tossed over her shoulder as she took the lead over the much larger male. Her last utterance was made with an air of said mischief, yet also somewhat nervously.

'I will not tell him. Although I do find myself curious… you seem very close to your bodyguard? Do your parents not find this improper?' Touga inquired whilst slowly ambling off after the little onyx inu, his sharp eyes roving over the soft sashay of her hips. She had her tail arched upwards, showing her bottom in full and as a male he did take several moments to stare at it in full. Truly, she was exquisite in form.

'They have not said anything about it. I suppose they could care less, and as I have no true candidates for a potential mate they allow it. But do not be confused, Tokuhei and I have a close friendship and nothing more. I have known him since I was very small.' She responded in a thoughtful tone, her pace slowing just slightly before she shook it off and urged herself into a slow sprint-eager to reach their destination, forcing her companion to mimic her actions as well.

Did she not see him as a suitable mate? Even potentially? His brows furrowed, a gesture visible even in this form. He felt… insulted. 'Do you not consider me a suitable mate? Your response leads me to believe so. I admit, this displeases me.'

If only because he felt fond of her already.

Thunderous echoes of their paws hitting the ground abruptly came to a halt, directly preceding her tossing a wide eyed look of shock in his direction. 'O-Oh I… I did not… well I suppose… I was thinking that…'

'Nice one Kagome!! Now you've gone and done the one thing you weren't intending to do!!'

How did she fix this situation?? Even thinking of him as an unsuitable male was preposterous! The most ludicrous thing she had ever heard! What would even lead him to think such a thing?!

'I am the one who is not suitable! That… That was all I meant. Of course you are an exemplary male, and a prime choice for any female looking to produce pups, or form a life bond with!'

She stammered with utmost vehemence, her form stiff and unrelenting in her apologetic actions. God's above… she never meant to insult or undermine his self worth! All she meant to do was explain her own views of her chances, although it was said absentmindedly. She really needed to learn how to shut her mouth!

How… asinine. For her to not be suitable? Or to view herself as a poor choice? It was an utterly idiotic notion, especially to him.

Touga didn't know her that well, that he would admit. However, from what he had seen in their interactions, she was kind and humble, yet he felt that she had an inner fire that she so carefully guarded. Her breeding was pure, despite her inheriting such an unusual onyx coloration. And her youki was powerful despite her young age, however gentle the aura it exuded. He was sure he could settle beside her every night and find sleep with ease while basking in her scent and aura.

Yet she didn't feel adequate for him. He was perplexed and dare he say, angered with the underlying idea that he was wasting his time. He planned to get to know both and make a choice, and that meant she would be subjected to much more of his presence. Luckily he found her to be rather becoming so it was no hardship for him.

But this… situation would not be allowed to continue. A female inu should never carry such a low opinion of herself. They were a rare species, meant to be coveted and protected viciously.

'I can imagine where you acquired such a low opinion of yourself Kagome, however it is not justified. You are perfectly suitable as a potential mate for me, otherwise I would never have taken an interest in you to begin with. Remember what I said the last time we spoke? Let not the cruel misconceptions of others affect how you see yourself, for it will only render you unable to see you for who you truly are. I was not lying about this.'

He was surprisingly gentle in his approach, both physically and emotionally, his much larger form coming up alongside her as he caressed between her shoulders with his muzzle. In doing so, he deeply inhaled her scent and shivered at the potency of it.

'You are lovely. Exquisite, beautiful, kind, intelligent, unique, humble… I can bequeath compliments all day if you would like, so long as you let go of your insecurities and allow me to get to know the real you. The one you try so desperately to hide out of fear of being condemned.'

Kagome stilled, breath catching as if it was sucked out of her. Had he… called her such flattering things? She almost couldn't allow herself to believe it, yet his earnest plea to get to know the real her, the part she hid out of shame and fear, was too much for her to bare. No one had ever wanted to know who she was, inside and out… Such a notion actually made her tear up, red and blue eyes shimmering with unshed sadness.

'What… what if you get to know me… and you decide I am as inane and unbecoming as everyone else?'

'I do not think it will be that way Kagome. Already I find myself intrigued by you. All I ask for is the chance to know you, without fear of judgment or expectations at this point. I want to know the female I fall in love with inside and out, and although I do not love you yet, I would like to love you for you if it ever does happen. Is this agreeable to you?'

The larger inu shifted back, gazing down at the tiny female standing before him expectantly. He had meant what he said, his gaze earnest and even encouraging for her benefit. In order to choose the right female he needed to know who they were, which was the only expectation he had for them. But he did suspect he would come to love this one, if what he suspected she was actually like turned out to be true.

No answer was given for several long moments in which she simply stared at him in shock. If she were in a human form she'd be gaping, as it was her inu form was capable of quite a close representation. Could she really…?

'If he could choose you why not?'

Even her own mind was against her, taunting her with this lunacy… But she admitted to being flattered, and stricken with hope that he could actually find her as appealing as she found him. Demons moved fast after all, working with instinct, and inevitably forming loving bonds quickly. If he could love her she would be elated, gods she would actually feel as if she had some self worth for once in her life! Maybe she could even leave this nightmare she lived in with a family that disdained her so openly!

Yes, she would try it.

'I will try Touga, for you. If it is possible for me to please or even… capture your affections, then I will be beyond joyous. Truly… I never imagined a male would take interest in me at all… it is embarrassing on some level.'

She ducked her head and shuffled on her paws, ears shifting with her nervousness. Despite this, she glanced up at him shyly, before dropping her gaze once more.

Could she be anymore… innocent? She scented of fear and uncertainty, but also tentative happiness. It was endearing, and he very seldomly found himself with such feelings towards anyone he came into contact with.

'Thank you Kagome. I am pleased that you are willing to try, for me. Now please, may we continue our walk?' He inquired politely.

'Of course! It is not far now actually.'

No more time was wasted on such matters as the two inu turned and resumed their trek once more, traversing the lush green forests in a moderately paced sprint that resulted in the trees passing by in rapid succession. They observed each other in silence at this juncture in time, discreetly on her part, and with blatant obviousness on his. He saw no reason to hide his perusal of her, now assessing her abilities even. She was fast, possibly even more so than he, and moved with fluidity and grace, showing natural prowess that would inevitably produce strong and healthy pups.

As silent as she was, seemingly focused on the path of green foliage ahead, Kagome was observing him as well. His strides were powerful, showing the sheer definition in his form with every step he took. But she'd known this, of his physical prowess, it was showcased in his very scent which screamed powerful. Try as she might, that was the best way she could describe it.

And it was frighteningly accurate…

Some time later found the two reaching a spacious clearing, far from any settlements. Even humans had not yet moved to inhabit the nearby land, leaving it secluded from any trespassers.

Lush green grass, dotted with many multitudes of wild flowers stretched on almost endlessly, while only one thick tree resided within the clearing. To anyone who looked upon it, they would feel at ease, peaceful… it had a holy, pure aura surrounding it.

Not even appearing to be a simple tree.

Kagome approached first, shifting back to her human form as she slowly approached the tree to lay her hand over the bark. Raven locks billowed in the gentle breeze, blowing the delicate scent of early morning dew, and the sweet smell of flowers. Yet, her blue eyes remained locked on the tree, who's bark was caressed lovingly by the small female. Almost as if the two were familiar, or intimately connected, yet no such knowledge truly existed within her.

"This is the Goshinboku… the god tree." Contented eyes turned to regard the male standing several paces back, silently watching her stroke the tree before her reverently.

Oh he knew what this tree was, though he had not seen this particular god tree before. "I had heard one existed in this area. How are you familiar with it?"

Blue eyes clouded over with sadness-distant memories coming to the surface as she gazed at the bark quietly for several long moments. She couldn't quite bring herself to share the entire story now… not when it was so personal… at least not yet. But perhaps one day she could tell him, when and if he ever earned her complete trust.

"I used to come here often as a child." She answered softly, before sitting beneath the branches to rest for a bit.

For a moment her companion didn't move to join her, instead opting to watch her as she sat in the shade. It appeared that she was remembering things, her brows furrowed in thought and yet… she did not tell him much. In fact he was quite positive that there was far more to it than that. However, Touga couldn't push her to tell him things she wasn't ready to speak of. Doing so was a gross abuse of his own power, which he would never commit-especially against a female.

Perhaps one day she would tell him.

But for now he finally moved to sit beside her, his pelt pooling upon the grass when he settled. "I hope one day you will trust me enough to tell me the full story Kagome. Until then I will wait patiently and work towards earning your trust." He smiled down at her gently, silver hair swaying in the breeze as golden eyes glinted wryly.

The small female sitting beside him only smiled on return, albeit a little bashfully. "I hope one day I can Touga. I really do."

Maybe if she was lucky, he would be around for long enough for that notion to come to fruition.

Finally finished it after weeks of writing! Anyways let me know what you think guys!!