Kouga growled lowly, This was a new level of cruelty even by Sesshoumaru's standards. His hatred of humans ran further than just a fear and resentment of them; he saw them as a lesser creature. Inferior and useless, like crushing bugs beneath his feet. To the extent he was willing to do anything to absolve his sister's attachment to one. When InuYuki got the news, she was beside herself, blinded by rage and sadness. Her eyes nearly glowing red with anger, the Tetsuigha balancing her demon blood from losing control. She was trembling with anger, Kouga had to calm her down so she didn't scare anyone. But he understood her reasoning, her feelings, Sesshoumaru was using dirty tactics. He'd waited until InuYuki had willingly travelled to Kouga's village, and then left Kichirou unprotected. Then had attacked him, wounded him and then hoped he would bleed to death. However, Kichirou had retaliated, receiving a small wound in return, but was alive. Kichirou was unlike any human he'd encountered before, he even had Kouga's respect. Sesshoumaru wasn't like any other demon he had encountered before, he'd survived against a DaiYokai. His younger brother and the villagers were currently caring for him. However, without an able-bodied priest, the village was left vulnerable to attacks. Demons weren't the only threat to the village, they had resources sought by thieves. Kouga had ordered that while Kichirou was injured, Ginta and Hikkaku keep guard over him, to ensure his village wasn't harmed by other demons or bandits. Once Kichirou was back to strength, they would return home. It wasn't much, but it was a peace offering.
Kouga could understand InuYuki's rage and resentment, as her only family was hurting the people she cared for most. He didn't blame her for severing ties. She was scheming her next move, but was terrified of placing Kichirou in further danger. She couldn't abandon the wolf village, and she couldn't risk returning home and further angering her half-brother. As the head of the family, he had more political control than she did. He had allies in various places and more resources than she did. Knowing he was targeting her human lover to spite her. But she still felt helpless and rightfully scorned; she couldn't face anyone amongst the tribe. She didn't want to lose her composure around others, she was used to handling matters on her own. She'd hidden herself away in a cave, sulking in peace, refusing to speak to anyone.
He punched the wall bitterly, causing a hole in the wall to form, the hardened rock now in the shape of his fist. He wanted to rip the smug head off of Sesshoumaru, put him in his damn place. He had an arrogance that deluded him into believing his actions would always be excused. "That bastard" he muttered. He knew no bounds when it came to tormenting InuYuki, anything to remind her of her place. Just when she was starting to settle here, just when it was starting to feel like home.
"Milord Kouga" A voice asked, she understood his reaction, and the pack stood behind him. This was an act of treason against the wolf tribe. While they had no alliance with the human village of Kichirou, it was under InuYuki's protection, so this was a slight against her. She had made that village her home and territory over the period she had remained there. Sesshoumaru had broken boundaries and insulted her in the process. Whatever demands she made, as their future princess, she was within her rights to ask of them.
Kouga looked up, his eyes still gleaming with hostility, trying to keep himself calm. He needed to keep a level head and control his temper. This wasn't just about him, this was about InuYuki. Right now, she was the one most hurt by these events "How's Inu?" he inquired.
"She's resting, she cried herself to sleep from stress. This human means a great deal to her, so his well-being is at the forefront of her mind. The betrayal of her brother has hurt her," the mage explained. She had been inconsolable, sobbing until she had no more tears to produce. Before settling and becoming comatose, curling up on the cave furs. She had inevitably passed out from exhaustion and stress, to which members of the pack watched over her in cycles.
Kouga rubbed the bridge of his nose in frustration, he'd begged her to meet his people. All he'd wanted was for her to understand that his people would mean her no harm. So she could understand the culture she was marrying into. Unlike the cruelty she had faced at the hands of other demons, she would be welcomed here. Instead, once he had earned her trust and she agreed, she lowered her guard. The man she loved had been targeted, and she hadn't been able to protect him. "This is all my fault, I knew it was too soon to ask her to come", he growled.
The mage approached, placing a hand upon his shoulder to console him. Everyone was very fond of the DaiYokai princess, she had a kind heart. Nobody could have predicted these events, not even him. They were taking a risk by allowing a treaty and alliance with Sesshoumaru. "She's been settling in well, Milord, don't blame yourself. This was all a lure by Sesshoumaru, he's gaslighting her" The mage soothed.
Kouga sighed. The mage was right, Sesshoumaru played by his own rules. He had no allies, and he wasn't to be trusted. They needed to keep an eye on his next schemes, as to counteract them in the future. That way, InuYuki would feel more at ease and know she could visit Kouga without worry. But what he hated more was that InuYuki would be focused on Kichirou; he wasn't the man who was on her mind right now. Even when they were apart, her loyalty to the priest was unwavering. Jealousy rippled through him, clouding his mind. This was truly ruining his attempts to win her over; she was still bound to Kichirou. She would run to him in a heartbeat if she could, and Sesshoumaru was trying to erase her ties to the humans.
InuYuki's eyes remained puffy and swollen from crying, she had no more tears to produce. She was exhausted, frustrated and yet burned with energy, the desire to tear the world apart and scoop Kichirou into her arms. She would do anything to keep him safe, anything to keep him. She lay curled among the pelts, hugging her knees to her chest like when she was a child, hiding from thunderstorms or when she had a nightmare. Wishing she could close her eyes, and it would all be a bad dream. The life she had loved so much was ripped from under her feet, and her brother was revelling in her misery; threatening her of the consequences if she didn't obey him. Her throat hurt from weeping, her heart ached, her hands trembled, and emotions surged through her. Her ears drooped with sadness. As a demon, she was supposed to be apathetic to humans, they were supposed to be lesser beings, weaklings and inferior to her demonic capabilities. She was literally a god, a superior being even among demons. But the human in her was angry, disgusted, upset and confused, bitter at how inferior she was, how manipulated she was. Nothing but a pawn to her half-brother. She had no voice, she had no control in any of this, neither of her parents would have wanted this for her. Why was Sesshoumaru so intent on ruining any happiness she had? Crushing her under the heel of his foot as if she was a bug, he'd ignored, abandoned and neglected her for years. Pretending she was never born, wishing she had died that day her mother gave birth. The only reason he tolerated her living in his mother's castle was because her influence overruled his. She was a political tool to him and nothing more.
Now he had attacked the man she loved out of spite, her mind filled with vivid images of the whole incident. She wanted to be beside him while he was recovering, nursing him back to health. How badly was Kichirou wounded? Was he still alive? Was he healing? What if he had been scarred? Humans took longer to recover from wounds, blood loss was worse for humans. He was responsible for the care and protection of his entire home, he was the one warding off demons. Who would protect the village in his place? Was he eating? Was his wound infected? Had Sesshoumaru used his poison claws? Her mind was racing incessantly with invasive thoughts, she couldn't eat, she couldn't sleep, all she could think about was Kichirou. She heard footsteps and paws on stone, probably one of Kouga's servants checking on her as usual. Her gaze flickered upwards briefly, her eyes still shiny with tears.
Kouga appeared, keeping his distance, knowing she wanted space, his heart dropped as he acknowledged her puffy eyes and droopy ears. Empathy was written all over his face. She'd isolated herself from him ever since she got the news, refusing to show her face. She knew she was being selfish but she couldn't help herself. Every part of him wanted to comfort her "Inu?" he beckoned softly. She wiped her eyes, hiding the newly formed tears, she hated looking so pathetically weak in front of him. Crying over another man in front of her betrothed, she'd never shown weakness to anyone but Kichirou before. Over time she'd learned to lock her tears away, protecting her heart from further pain. Kouga was the first demon she'd ever cried in front of, let alone let her guard down around.
Kouga folded his arms firmly, he didn't want to heckle her but he was worried. He didn't want to force feed her, but if thats what it took. "The village mage told me you're refusing food, it's not healthy to abstain from eating", he soothed. She needed to preserve her strength; her anxiety, lack of appetite, and an imbalanced mind would be weakening her. He knew anxiety and stress affected appetite, but not eating was only worsening her rapid burning of energy. He wasn't going to watch her starve herself or hurt herself by neglecting her body; as his bride, her well-being, both mental and physical, was his priority. Given how cruel her brother was, he was sure when she sulked, cried or showed distress growing up. He left her to fend for herself, neglecting her and condescending her. It was no wonder she was used to looking after herself. When was the last time someone gave a shit about her?
She shifted, her head peaking from the blankets, looking painfully cute in Kouga's eyes. She knew she needed to eat, but she couldn't stomach the thought of anything heavy "I.. I'm not hungry... my stomach..." she mumbled.
He nodded, "I made a light broth, it's got fresh ginger for nausea, Umeboshi and lemon. The meat is the wild boar we caught, I made it into a light stew for you" he smiled. Stress and crying would make it hard for her to consume anything heavy, she would either reject it or forcing herself to eat it would make her sick. It would be easy for her to digest, it wasn't overpowering, and it would help improve her mood. If she enjoyed it, he'd asked the healers of their tribe to make a batch. That way she could still consume something until her mental health recovered.
InuYuki sniffed. The aroma was indeed enticing, and it wasn't too thick either, the broth smelled like Miso? But she couldn't live off soup forever, it wouldn't last that long as sustenance. He approached, handing her the bowl cautiously, sensing her curiosity, which was a good sign of hunger. She took it gratefully as the aromas filled her nose, her mouth starting to water, her stomach gave a low rumble, reminding her she needed to eat. The two wolves accompanying him approached her, a red wolf with soft fur and pointed ears, the other a grey wolf. They sniffed her politely, nosing her before nuzzling and licking her face gently to comfort her. Settling beside her protectively.
Kouga nodded at them "I know you aren't in the mood for company, so I sent these guys to keep you safe. They'll help you settle and make sure you won't hurt yourself, or unwanted guests won't bother you," he smiled. He wasn't going to leave InuYuki unattended in this state, they would add extra warmth, ease her anxieties, and also accompany her around the premises. They'd ward off danger and sense threats, if InuYuki ever felt unsafe, they would know.
InuYuki softened, he really was the sweetest, which made it harder to accept she was falling for him. In another life, if she had met him first, before Kichirou, it would have made this easier. He sensed she wanted to be alone and didn't invade her privacy, he sent members of his pack to ensure Kichirou's village was protected until he healed. He'd gone as far as to ask his healers to make her food she could eat. He'd asked his wolves to act as her bodyguards in case she was harmed or to ensure she had company. He even respected that he might overwhelm her. He was prioritising her comfort and recovery, he was enduring her selfishness and shifts in moods. He was enduring that she was in love with someone else.
Kouga approached, reaching out to gently ruffle her head affectionately, the warmth of his hand felt good "Eat up, don't worry if you can't eat it all" he reassured her.
InuYuki watched him leave in reflective silence, part of her wanted to ask him to stay with her. Kichirou would have joined her for a meal and watched her with silent fondness, wiping any smears from her mouth. Despite his urge to keep her company, he ignored it, putting her before his own needs. He was truly worried about her, she could smell the anger, worry and love he felt. No doubt, he was planning on confronting Sesshoumaru, chewing him out for causing her so much distress. But he was respecting her privacy, like a good mate, he was ensuring she ate, she was well cared for and recovered. She needed to show her gratitude for this, paying him back for all he had done for her.
She picked up the wooden spoon he gave her, stirring it, the smell of pickled plums, lemon rind, wild boar, ginger, herbs and 'd added wild mushrooms, potatoes and more, her stomach growled. She hadn't eaten this well in years, not since she was a small girl. Living in her mother's palace she was treated to so much luxurious food, living with her stepmother too. But once she began to raise herself, living alone. She had hunted and fended for herself, which meant food was scarce and she had to fight other demons for a meal. Humans would chase her off regularly. When her human form came around she had to hide for her life, aware she was utterly at the mercy of other demons. Once her powers began to grow stronger, she was capable of handling herself and surviving. Now she was living amongst demons, stronger in numbers and always protecting her.
She took a mouthful hesitantly, hoping her stomach would accept it, she moaned softly as the taste hit her tongue, hunger rippling through her. The bitter taste of the lemons and spiciness of the ginger, the tenderness of the meat, it all worked together so well. This was exactly what she needed, it somehow reminded her of the small meals her mother would have made her. Despite protests from the servants. The wolves saw her content and watched her curiously, she reached out to scratch one of the wolves' heads affectionately. "He's not subtle at all, that goof" she muttered, biting back a laugh.
"Onii-chan" Kaede babbled nervously, bursting through the bamboo screen door. It appeared that since InuYuki had departed to visit the wolf prince, more demons had chanced their luck. Seeing how strong Kichirou was without the protection of the Hanyou. All the villagers were nervous and eagerly awaited her return.
Kichirou raised his head, he had slept well, recovering his strength, the bandages soaked in medicine had helped his wound immensely. Local monks had given them sutra scrolls to act as a barrier to ward off demons, it would help protect the village until he was back to full capacity. Though the wound wasn't deep enough to kill him, it still caused him immense pain and blood loss, which had weakened him and left him anaemic for a brief period. He knew Kaede was terrified of losing him, believing the wound to be worse than it appeared. All he could think of was her reaction to all of this, if InuYuki had been here, she would have protected him. She would have been blinded by rage and nearly killed her brother. He was no fool, Sesshoumaru had targeted him while InuYuki had gone to visit Kouga. He was testing to see how much he could get away with in her absence.
Kaede caught his breath, focusing his words "There's... demons have come to the village!" Kaede panicked. Kichirou cursed; they must have sensed his weakened state and come to pick off villagers, he was in no state to fight back. "They... they're from the wolf pack, they said they were sent by Prince Kouga" Kaede explained. Kichirou's eyes widened in shock. Kouga had sent his men? The last thing he expected was for his rival to consider his wellbeing. Surely he would see this as a win. That meant InuYuki had to know about him being wounded by her brother, did that mean she was coming back? Ending her visit early to come home. He winced as he slowly sat up, dressing himself in robes, curious to their visitors.
Ginta and Hakkaku stood by the village borders, they'd chased off and killed a bunch of stray demons who tried to approach the village. Since their demonic presence was made known, most stragglers had left. Many of the human villagers were confused and scared of their presence.
Ginta scratched the back of his head, now he knew why Kouga had made this request so urgently "These barriers ain't as strong as usual" Ginta mused. No wonder so many stragglers were trying their luck.
"Must be due to the priest being injured and all, healing takes a lot of energy. He can't focus on manifesting barriers while he's hurt," Hakkaku explained. No wonder the princess was so worried, she knew the risk. Priests were still human, despite their supernatural powers, they had a generally shortened lifespan compared to most humans. Their demand from normal people was immense.
"That'll be why Prince Kouga sent us" Ginta hummed, nobody else would have checked on their rival. Most would have seen this as a win and ensured they were finished off, beating the competition.
Hakkaku couldn't help but think of their princess, she'd been so unhappy lately and everyone could sense it. Hearing her crying alone, the smell of her salty tears. They all knew the reason why, but none of them said it. She was worried for the human priest, she wanted to go home "That and Princess Inu was beside herself, he couldn't stand seeing her so unhappy" Hakkaku reminded him.
Everyone knew Kouga was head over heels for the Hanyou, he'd found his soulmate and no other woman would do for him. Of all the women in the world, he'd fallen for the princess of the DaiYokai tribe. The day of their wedding would the celebration of the era, a union of a truly powerful generation of demons. "Man, he's so smitten with her, it's hilarious" Ginta chuckled. They heard approaching footsteps and turned to see a young boy and a teenager approach. The younger boy had a lightly tanned face, dark brown eyes and black hair like his brother's, short messy fringe and a short bob of hair, tied back into a small ponytail around the back. He adorned an orange kimono with small black leaves.
Kichirou gripped his bow tightly, even in this state he was still a keen archer. Though his aim would be weakened, he could still strike with a bow. He would tolerate no harassment or threats "And who may you be? I may be weakened, but my arrow won't miss," Kichirou warned.
The demons raised their hands in surrender, proving they were of no threat "We were sent by Prince Kouga, he was informed of your wounds inflicted by Lord Sesshoumaru" Ginta explained. This guy sure was scary, he was wounded and yet he was still threatening them to their face? No wonder Kouga respected him so much.Kichirou blinked. His rival? InuYuki's arranged fiancé had sent... protection? This didn't make any sense, why would a demon show such courtesy to a human? They were supposed to be lesser creatures in the eyes of demons. He could have sent these men to finish him off and take InuYuki for himself. "Princess Inu is beside herself with worry for you, but she's not able to leave our territory out of worry that her brother may attack again. So we came here to protect you until your strength is fully returned," Hakkaku continued.
Kichirou's heart ached with sadness, knowing InuYuki would be blaming herself for what happened. Unable to protect him and wracked with guilt that it happened while she was gone. She'd be counting down the days until she could return home, leaping across mountains to make it back. Throwing her arms around him and smothering him in affection. But he couldn't deny the pride and happiness he felt, knowing she was always thinking of him. He had that win over Kouga, that for all his demonic charm, he was the one in her heart. He wanted her back in his arms, he wanted to her to know she was his everything. That no matter the distance, she would always be the woman for him. "I thank you, your gesture of kinship is appreciated. We don't have much in terms of food, but we can offer enough," he smiled
"We can hunt the local area for ya, plenty of wild animals. If yer good with a blade, you can get enough rabbit meat or wild boar to last you ages," Hakkaku offered. The villagers had to be hungry and local grains and village stock would only last them so long. They relied on hunting and fieldwork to feed them, without being able to hunt, in a village this poor it wouldn't last long.
Kaede tugged on his brother's sleeve, he was wary of demons but they weren't in a position to reject their help. For now they needed to swallow their pride and accept their offer. They wouldn't be staying long and if they hunted for food, they could always create more storage for upcoming seasons. "Onii-san, many villagers won't roam far due to demons, it's a good offer and the villagers need food", Kaede suggested. If they were willing to help via a peace offering, they would have to trust him.
Kichirou nodded, he had to put his people first, he wasn't willing to let them starve over his pettiness "I thank you for your kindness".
"Lady InuKimi? As in the royal queen of the DaiYokai clan?"
"Ain't she Lord Sesshoumaru's mother?"
"The hell is she doing here?"
Lady Inukimi sighed, she had left her castle to check up on her stepdaughter, knowing the mess she was in. She had hoped this engagement would go smoothly and she would see sense. But her son was insistent on throwing cogs into the mix for his amusement. So she had decided to leave her residence to visit her stepdaughter in her new home, she knew that as a higher-class demon, she would attract unwanted attention, but this was ridiculous. Why was she the one having to keep everyone in line? She thought her children would have the common sense to develop some maturity. Her son had stirred up a lot of trouble, and she was displeased at his actions. He had gravely wounded the human InuYuki was infatuated with, causing her immense distress and breaking her trust. Though she herself wasn't fond of humans, nor understood her late husbands affections for them. Even she could acknowledge that her son's actions were cruel and petty.
InuYuki was refusing to eat, and her health was deteriorating, she empathised with the fact that her stepdaughter was under stress, being treated like a punching bag. But she refused to allow her to harm herself. She had responsibilities she needed to address, new duties placed upon her shoulders that she had to acknowledge. She needed to start acting like a princess and use her position to her advantage. She was the only daughter of their clan and the only one capable of carrying on their legacy until her son found a mate, she was immensely precious in many ways.
"Lady InuKimi, for what do we owe the pleasure?" Kouga asked cautiously, it wasn't often he got visitations from his mother-in-law in person, why on earth was she here? She had to have heard about her son's latest antics, as well as Inu's deterioration.
Inukimi sighed exasperatedly, she couldn't imagine how it was for Kouga, handling her stepdaughter's human lover, as well as her mood swings. He was handling it impressively well, he had her respect. But while she had taken her past words to heart, it seems she was incessant on his behaving immaturely at the worst times. "Is my stepdaughter still hiding within her cave?" she asked.
Kouga shrugged, he wasn't about to let InuYuki's stepmother bully her out of her comfort zone. She was vulnerable, she was enduring the constant bullying of her stepbrother. If she needed space right now he accepted that, she was recharging and she was calming herself. The last he saw her she had food at least "She's not in a socialising mood" Kouga explained.
She could see the worry on his face, he was being protective and rightfully so, but she had no intentions to harm her stepchild. But she needed to learn that every time something traumatic happened she couldn't run away and hide. She needed to learn to stand on her own, to act accordingly as a future ruler of this pack. She needed to learn to stand up to her half brother and put him in his place "May I see her?" she pressed.
Kouga shifted, he knew he couldn't disobey her, and he didn't want to cause Inu further stress, his hands were tied. But he needed to think of his people and his mate "Given it's an order, I can't say no, just be prepared, she's bound to lash out" he warned. Whatever she would say would come from a place of anger and distrust, she wasn't thinking clearly. She was in a sensitive mood and she was of every reason to feel that way.
InuKimi sighed, her stepdaughter had always been a sensitive and emotional person, it came from her human blood. But she was wise beyond her years which she inherited from both. Handling her moods had to be done so delicately, or it would end badly for everyone. She thanked Kouga before heading to her stepdaughters chambers, to confront her "That foolish son of mine" she muttered.
InuYuki lay wrapped up, cuddling against one of the wolves sent by Kouga, the secondary lay by her feet, protecting her. They were so soft and warm, helping calm her mind, she had calmed immensely since her earlier distress, but Kichirou remained on her mind. The salty tears on her face licked away by their rough tongues, able to sleep and decompress thanks to them. She'd never had a pet growing up, so this was the closest she came to ever having one. Ginta and Hakkaku, Kouga's two main guards, had been sent to protect the village while Kichirou recovered. Kouga could have easily let Kichirou die, he was weakened and vulnerable, but he still chose to support his rival. A familiar scent wafted to her nose, causing her to turn rigid, what was she doing here? It seemed her occasional visits were becoming more regular these days.
"Sulking in a cave is very unladylike. Your previous territory was threatened, and you chose to hide away. I was sure the lessons you learned while under my care educated you better," InuKimi sighed. She needed to stop behaving like a child, she couldn't retreat every time something distressing happened. There was being benevolent and then there was being a coward, while InuYuki was neither, she was still acting immaturely. Sesshoumaru would perceive her sulking as a reason to further bully her, until she learned to fight back. InuYuki bolted up in a panic, her eyes wide, the wolves beside her immediately raised their heads, growling lowly to intimidate the threat, protecting their princess.
InuKimi peered at the growling beasts, it seemed in her short time here they had already attached themselves to her. Respecting her as their leader and future princess. "What loyal dogs, I see they already accept you as one of their own" InuKimi acknowledged. She'd heard tale that the royal blood of the wolf clan could transform into demonic wolves, much like the Inu DaiYokai could, only smaller. She wondered if that were true for their current prince.
InuYuki frowned, she knew her stepmother, she wasn't here to play nice, she had come here for a personal reason "Why are you here?" she pressed. She was in a shitty mood, she was worried sick about Kichirou and she wanted nothing more than to punch and claw Sesshoumaru in his smug face. She wasn't going to smile and play happy family, she had reasons to be upset.
InuKimi bowed her head apologetically, she wasn't going to discredit her son's actions, but she wasn't going to ignore the hurt of her stepdaughter. There was much disarray occurring, which was throwing a wrench into this engagement. As the matriarch of the family it was her job to put things at ease. "I was informed of my son's most recent reckless and immature attack on your human paramour. I understand such matters would distress you, due to inheriting your father's fondness for humans," Inukimi explained. InuYuki softened, in her way, she was stating she was worried. InuKimi approached, carefully tilting back her stepdaughter's head to observe her appearance; her eyes were bloodshot from crying, her bags were red and puffy, swollen. She had been crying, distressed and sulking. She hadn't seen the girl cry this incessantly since she was a young girl, after the death of Izayoi. It had to be a severe case of trauma for her to be affected this deeply. "Your fiancé informed me you've at least eaten something", she replied.
InuYuki blushed, she could feel InuKimi's eyes piercing her, silently judging her appearance and state. For a royal DaiYokai appearance was everything, and right now she looked a state. Her hair was greasy and dishevelled, she probably smelled like wolf. She needed to wash and she needed to take care of herself. But she couldn't find the energy to care. Of all times when she looked her worst, her stepmother had to choose to visit.
"I understand how distress and anxiety can affect one's appetite, but worrying those closest to you will prove more harm than good", InuKimi sighed. She was a beautiful girl for a half breed, her silvery hair, amber eyes and good complexion, her sharp fangs and figure. She needed to take care of her body better. Kouga was beside himself with worry over her weight loss, anxiety and stress, he was angered by Sesshoumaru's underhanded schemes. And he was trying to keep balance while understanding how upset his mate would be. InuYuki was hiding herself away as a form of self-preservation, hiding her emotions while feeling frustrated at her helplessness. While rightfully enraged at her half-brother's actions. But closing off Kouga, it was hurting him and driving a wedge in their bond.
InuYuki bowed her head, her cheeks flushed pink with humiliation and frustration, where did showing vulnerability get her in the past? When she tried to reach out to her half brother, he treated her with disdain. She was tolerated by the servants and treated like an eyesore. Only her stepmother treated her with respect. When she found her own place, she was still ridiculed. The people she loved being dragged against their will into matters of her brother's family, forced to play nice, forced to obey. What if Kichirou had been killed?
"I'll have a bath prepared for you; you've been stewing long enough, and your robes require care. I'll ask that a new kimono be brought as a replacement for now. You need a decent meal too. Your fiancé will be joining us too. We have much to discuss," InuKimi stated. She needed to be cleaned, in body and soul, and a hot bath would help with that. Putting her at ease and bringing out her shine. Her father's robes were precious and all that remained of her late husband, they needed to be taken care of. Until it was tended to she would need to wear something else.
InuYuki eased into the hot water of the bath, herbal remedies had been poured in, as well as rice water and lavender, to soothe her skin and ease her mind. She breathed deeply, realising how exhausted she had been, somehow her stepmother knew exactly what she needed. Her moments of insight and kindness was surprisingly rare, but always appreciated. Usually, she would have bound her hair back, but her stepmother insisted it needed shining. She was anxious to part ways with her belongings temporarily, but her stepmother assured they would return in one piece. Her robe of the fire rat was being cleaned and prepared, while a temporary replacement was being brought. She ran her fingers across her skin, letting the water trickle between her fingers, the hot water was comforting against her skin, easing away her troubles.
"Does that feel good, milady?" a servant asked kindly, she seemed much more at ease, the hot water improving her mood. The wolves from earlier had also joined her, sitting beside the tub. She collected a sponge to help cleanse her skin, washing away the grease and dirt. She was becoming her usual self again. InuYuki nodded, the warm water eased her soreness and soothed her worries. She hadn't received such genuine kindness in so long, they treated her so well and expected nothing in return. They treated her as one of their own. It surprised her how many demons still harboured decent morals and empathy, it wasn't common these days. "You've gotten thinner, it's a good thing Prince Kouga and your stepmother got involved" the servant sighed. InuYuki shifted, she had a feeling everyone around her had noticed but, but due to her royal status had said nothing out of duty. Even the children would have been worried for her. Being scolded by her stepmother was the last thing she expected to occur.
The servant approached, grabbing a clean flannel, pouring a form of soap onto it, before gently scrubbing at her skin. Their prince was truly doting on her, showing a side of himself they never knew. The right person truly brought out a side of someone, that was love for you. "You know, I've never seen our prince so smitten with a girl before" the servant hummed. His first arranged engagement was one sided, a treaty between wolf tribes but his heart wasn't in it. They could all see he would have done it out of duty, but never love. They couldn't ask it of him so they agreed to reject the proposal. The girl had been heartbroken, but they all knew Kouga had no feelings for her.
InuYuki scoffed, he was a handsome demon, silky black hair, icy blue eyes, tanned skin, toned muscles. He had a smile that would give anyone butterflies, and he knew how to charm the pants off someone. There was no way previous courtships hadn't occurred before her brother intervened. She was just unlucky enough to be thrown into this because she couldn't deny her brother's position "I'm sure he's had plenty of girls throwing themselves at him". She knew there had to be far prettier female wolf demons he could have chosen from, all manner of women who adored him. Someone more appropriate, someone who was a full blooded demon.
The servant shook her head "He may not appear so, but our Prince Kouga is a romantic at heart. Though one girl attempted to pursue him, he didn't reciprocate her feelings. You are the first girl he's ever been serious about". The Lady Ayame, grandchild of the Northern wolf tribe was insistent on becoming his wife, but Kouga had dismissed her. They were both of age but after meeting InuYuki, she was the only woman he wanted. When she got the news that Kouga had rejected her for another woman, she had been devastated. Though she'd been smart enough to restrain herself from causing a ruckus, she was indeed heartbroken.
InuYuki blushed, so there had been other women before her, at least one sided anyway. Her brother had taken the advantage and offered InuYuki before anyone else could suggest a secondary arrangement. She wondered what kind of girl her previous competition had been, whether she was pretty, what she looked like, and what personality she had. Why would Kouga pass at his kin? But then choose her?
"I know the premise of an arranged marriage is scary, Lord Kouga was hesitant about it himself. But after he met you, he fell head over heels," the servant chuckled. He'd wanted a woman who reflected his people, a woman who would bring harmony to the pack. Someone who his people would embrace, knowing he'd made the right choice. They'd never seen him so besotted, she was the only person who clouded his thoughts so regularly.
InuYuki flinched, she'd believed that Kouga had accepted her brother's offer without question, intimidated by her brother and also eager at the promise of a pretty wife. But knowing that he had considered rejecting her, that he wanted to get to know her. That he was truly trying to earn her love, to court her properly. She realised she'd been much harsher on him than she realised, how she'd had him wrong from the beginning "Kouga was hesitant?" she asked.
The servant nodded, they were all delighted he had accepted the proposal, they all adored lady InuYuki. The mating ceremony with wolves was for life, staying with one sole female. InuYuki would be his bride, his wife, the mother of their offspring, until their last breath. No other woman would replace her, no other woman would become his wife, she was his everything. The kimono, the bracelet, all of it was for her. "He'd never been married before, this was his first mate. He wanted a woman who could stand as his equal when ruling his pack," she explained.
InuYuki reflected pensively, it seemed this bond with Kouga was full of surprises, the wolf prince was nothing how she imagined him. She couldn't find a single fault in him, any reason to distrust or hate him. She'd always thought Kouga to be a player, throwing himself at pretty girls shamelessly, using her as a political mating tool. Coaxing and teasing her like he would all pretty girls, but his gestures and attempts at courting her had been sincere. He wanted her to join his people, she would be treated as an equal and protected. She would have power and influence, future generations of Inu-DaiYokai wolves.
The servant smiled fondly, sensing her change in heart, being so young and having such cruel family members, of course the poor girl was wary. "He may not be straightforward about his intentions or his feelings, he's an awkward and sometimes bashful person. But everyone in the pack can see how precious you are to him," the servant assured her. InuYuki hummed, the way his people spoke about him spoke true of his character. His people loved him, adored him, they idolised him. He was a benevolent prince, he always had the wellbeing of his people at mind. He didn't harbour a hatred for humans like most demons, and he didn't mistreat her for being a half breed either.
InuYuki dried herself with the cloth quietly, rinsing the water from her hair, her skin was singing, and she felt so much better after the bath, her mind refreshed and calm. It had been a long time since she'd had a bath like that, usually she would seek out a hot spring, or bathe by a waterfall. She didn't have the luxuries of a castle or a cave. She had to make do with what resources she had at her disposal. Being able to soak in such a warm bath, take her time and feel spoiled, she wanted it to last as long as possible. Her cheeks flushed pink from the heat of the bath, her skin tingled, she patted herself dry, before twisting her hair back into a topknot, brushing her damp fringe from her face. As she reached out for her father's robe, she panicked, unable to find it. Wondering if she had misplaced it, before realising it had fully vanished from her sight. Her father's last inheritance, passed down to her upon his death, was gone, all she had left to remember him. The only thing tying him to her, and it had been taken from her. It was her armour, the only protection she had, that and his sword. She wrapped the cloth around her tightly, scrambling around the cave in a desperate attempt to find her belongings.
A servant entered the room, sensing her distress approached with a gentle voice, soothing her anxiety "Milady? Are you quite alright? You seem panicked?" a servant asked. Had something happened in her absence?
InuYuki's amber eyes gleamed with tears, surely someone had to have seen where it went? They wouldn't steal it from her as a cruel prank? There had to be an explanation for this. "My... my robes", she babbled, clutching the cloth to her chest. Her hands trembled and her lip wobbled, fighting back tears as she tried to keep her breathing level.
The servant smiled, placing a soothing hand on her back, easing her breathing back to normal. Nobody here would dare cause her stress intentionally. "We noticed it appeared rather unclean, we know how precious it is to you, so we cleaned it for you. It's currently drying. We had another garment prepared for you until it's returned", she reassured her. They treated it with the upmost care, tending to the garment and washing away any stains and smells. It would be sent back to her chambers in better condition for her to find.
InuYuki softened, her panic lessened as she breathed a sigh of relief. Her father's garments were still in one piece, being mended and washed. Then a new state of panic washed over her, all she came here in was the robe of the fire rat and her inner robes. She couldn't wander around the wolf pack in nothing but her birthday suit, as much as Kouga would probably enjoy that. But what else would she wear?
The servant must have read her mind, for she continued to speak "Prince Kouga had a garment made for you" The servant smiled.
InuYuki blushed, she owed Kouga far too much at this rate, he kept gifting her with so many surprises. The bracelet, mending her father's robes, gifting her with new clothes. She feared she would become selfish, constantly expecting to be showered with praise and presents. However, she was suspicious of how he would already know her measurements by now. She had never told him anything so personal and they were yet to be sexually intimate with one another. So how could he have possibly predicted her size accurately? "He... made something? For me?" she asked.
InuYuki was led to a separate room, a curtain of furs standing on bamboo poles, similar to that of a sliding door, appeared. "Please wait here, I'll help you change" the servant smiled.
InuYuki waited patiently, clutching the cloth to her chest, wondering when Kouga had ordered this to be made. Everything was happening so fast she felt dizzy with excitement and anxiety, they weren't even married yet. How long had he harboured it in his possession? Was this an early wedding present? Her father's robe, his sword and her mother Beni were all she had left. So little of her belongings, so little she had been left behind, compared to that of her stepmother and half brother. She heard the servant return, handing a beautiful garment to InuYuki, she felt as though she was dreaming. It greatly resembled her late mother's kimono.
"Prince Kouga had this made for you, after hearing of your bond with your late mother. The same colours and design were added to it. However, we added our own personal twist, making a small design of cherry blossoms to the pink material," she smiled. They knew she had been very close to her mother before her passing, and InuYuki often visited her grave privately to mourn and upkeep it. She was the only one who remembered her. In doing so she could keep a piece of her mother with her at all times.
InuYuki's eyes welled with tears, emotions she had long since repressed flowed within her, her smile couldn't be withheld, her lip wobbling. She had never forgotten her mother, her smell, her warmth, her smile. She had meant the world to InuYuki and losing her broke the Hanyou's heart. Sesshoumaru despised her and InuKimi remained indifferent to her husband's second mate. She reached out a hand to delicately trace the material, it was an uncanny duplicate of her mother's old robes. How he had managed to replicate it, she had no idea, but she could never repay him for this. She had no means to ever express the value of this. The same pink hue, only without the camellia pattern but with cherry blossoms, the same rainbow tier inner lining hem, except Kouga had intricately detailed patterns in it, with leaves, flowers and moons. Part of her couldn't wait to see the expression on Sesshoumaru's face, to see his half sister adorning a secondary version of her mother's robes. The best part is he couldn't complain as it had been a wedding gift from her husband to be. Bringing back memories and nostalgia of her mother, only with InuYuki's own blend to it. She couldn't wait to try it on, to wear it with pride. This and the wolf bracelet were the most precious gifts he had given her.
The servant saw her expression, her heartfelt smile and tears, understanding the flow of emotions rushing through her. Now she could see the sincerity of Kouga, of how he would do anything to make her happy "Do you like it Milady?" the servant asked curiously.
InuYuki wiped her eyes, rubbing the tears from her cheeks, she hadn't cried like this in years. She felt as if her mother was in the room with her, protecting her. If anything were to happen to this kimono, she would be beside herself. "I... I can't...it's just as I remember it, only... It's mine," she mumbled tearfully. She felt as though she had stepped back through time to her childhood.
The servant smiled, "Let's try it on", there was no doubt it would look perfect on her. Showing her regality, truly becoming the princess she was born to be. Prince Kouga wouldn't be able to take his eyes from her. She carefully helped InuYuki into an undergarment of an outer robe, wrapping it around her and fastening it, before applying the outer robes carefully. Smoothing out any creases or crinkles of the robes, making sure the garment was wrapped tightly around her. She then grabbed a red Obi-age, binding it around InuYuki's stomach and lower chest tightly, still allowing her to breathe. Once she was pleased with the state of InuYuki's dress, she focused on her appearance; combing the Hanyou's hair delicately, before restyling it into a more relaxed bun. "Of course, upon your marriage, armour and more garments will be applied. We just wanted to assure it would fit during your visit" the servant smiled.
InuYuki hesitated, a feeling of anxiety and contemplation washing over her, despite no official arrangements being made or agreed to. Kouga had already made measures to prepare for her arrival, his new bride. He wanted her to know he loved her and he wanted to share his future with her. She'd never had two men so devoted to her before. Using the Tetsuigha, wearing wolf armour, her father's robe as a Haori jacket of sorts. She was truly becoming a leaders wife. So many arrangements being made of the role she would play in her future. She just wished she could get advice from her father, maybe her stepmother? Someone who could tell her what she needed to hear most.
InuYuki awkwardly entered the throne room, knowing her stepmother and fiancé would be waiting for her. She could feel her hands growing clammy with nerves. The servant who had kindly dressed her, had applied her mother's rouge, slipping the shell into her robes. Then applied lilac shadow nearly over her eyes, in small strips to mirror her mother and illuminate the yellow of her eyes. She had never embraced any form of femininity, such leisures weren't afforded to her growing up. Survival was the strongest instinct she had known. Kouga and InuKimi sat quietly at a table, Kouga's leg bouncing impatiently while InuKimi watched him with curiosity. The two wolves from her den followed close behind her like bodyguards, standing closely beside her.
Inukimi raised her head, a smile of approval appeared on her features "Ah, finally you're ready. A more fitting appearance for a princess". Kouga perked up, turning his head eagerly before his cheeks flushed pink, his blue eyes widened in awe. Staring at InuYuki as though he'd walked into a dream. His eyes roaming her curves and drinking in the kimono. She swore his tail was wagging in happiness. The two wolves accompanying her approached Kouga, placing themselves elsewhere in the room, keeping InuYuki within their field of vision. Aware she was protected beside Kouga, but keeping InuKimi within view in case she harmed InuYuki.
InuYuki shifted, tucking a loose strand of her hair behind her ear, avoiding eye contact "My... my other robes were being cleaned" she mumbled. She wasn't used to tight fitted robes, she had always just worn her father's robes. If this was how a princess was expected to dress, if this was how she was appear whenever she was in company. She would need time to get used to it.
"We were just having some tea, come join us. I brought some snacks with me" InuKimi coaxed, knowing her stepchild had a weakness for treats. Ever since she was small. InuYuki hesitated before joining them at the table, walking calmly towards them before awkwardly sitting beside Kouga. Trying to remember how to kneel without creasing her skirts. Her cheeks flushed pink as she felt his eyes roaming her with hunger. InuKimi poured InuYuki some tea, the steam wafting into the air and the fragrant scent of Assam filled the room. InuYuki hesitated, letting the tea cool before she sipped, her tongue was far more sensitive than a humans. The last thing she wanted was to embarrass herself in front of InuKimi by burning her tongue and acting like a child. The cups were made from carved bones, clay and wood, utilising the many traditions and ingredients of the wolf tribe. Though they had spoils of war like anyone else, they could make their own. She gratefully took one of the sweets her stepmother had brought, the sticky yet comforting taste of Dango. Chewing quietly as the soft and yet bittersweet taste hit her tongue. "Good to see your appetite is improving" Inukimi praised, it was best not to unsettle her stomach with too much food. It seems the stew he prepared helped encouraged her appetite.
"If Sesshoumaru has any complaints, he's done enough damage. Inu's been keeping up her end of the bargain, she's been slowly allowing me to court her on her terms. But he attacked her mate, he wounded him with the intent to kill him. He's caused her enough distress, whether it was out of spite or his own amusement. How the hell is she supposed to trust that she isn't being tricked when he keeps causing her such pain?" Kouga accused. He was the one who set up this arrangement, he was the one who stole InuYuki's freedom and silenced her. Using her as a pawn for his own means. But much to his surprise, InuYuki ended up falling for both men instead of choosing one. She was fighting for her happiness while being forced to make cruel choices. "I'm willing to wait for her, I want her to fall in love with me. But I refuse to win by petty means, such as my rival being murdered. I may be a demon but I have pride and morals. And watching Inu suffer because she's being used as a consolation prize is the lowest".
InuYuki blushed, she'd heard Kouga say before that he was willing to wait, to make her fall in love with him. That someday she would be forced to choose him due to Kichirou's inevitable fate as a human. But hearing her betrothed call Kichirou her mate, hearing him insult Sesshoumaru to his mother of all people. Calling them out for mistreating her and using her as a pawn. Calling them out for forcing her into this whole mess. It was rather endearing. He truly did care about her and he wanted her to choose him, but when she was ready to, when she was over Kichirou.
InuKimi winced, a small flicker of annoyance appeared on her features but she hid it well. She wasn't adept at being spoken to by a lesser demon in such a manner. She was used to being naturally respected and feared by others. For Kouga to be as ballsy as to insult her to her face, then confront her on her son's cruelty. Sesshoumaru was raised properly, to be a lord, he was the ideal child. A calculating, calm, often aloof young man, composed and confident. Despite this he was also reckless, stubborn and impatient without ever showing it on his features. He had the promise of a great lord to inherit his father's title, but he had a long way to go. "My son is indeed foolish, he's the ideal demon prince, and yet he's so much like his father, and myself. He merely has one goal, to live up to his father's expectations and legacy. However, I fear he doesn't live for himself, let alone for any genuine purpose. Such as his prior insistence to claim Tetsuigha for himself. For whatever reason, his hatred of your mother runs deep, to the extent he's passed that emotion onto you. I cannot deny I was indignant at my husband's second marriage, but we ended things on reasonable terms. My son was of age and our marriage was largely political. But my feelings are not so petty as to show bitterness towards his daughter" InuKimi explained. She had mourned her husband and still persisted to do so, she would always love him even in death. However, their marriage had ended long before he met Izayoi. Izayoi raised her child among humans until her passing, and InuKimi had no intention of bullying a child for the mistakes of her father. But Sesshoumaru took it as a personal offence.
"So, he's just an entitled asshole with a stick up his ass about his dad remarrying? Why the hell would he make it Inu's problem? She was just a kid?!" Kouga snapped. Sesshoumaru would have been in his teens by the time InuYuki was born, meaning he had plenty of time to adjust to her being around. He could have been a protective and doting older brother but instead he treated her with disdain. The older brother figure Inu had hoped for, the family she had sought comfort in after her mother's death. She'd been made to feel lonelier than ever. It was so wonder she was so guarded around his people, she'd been made to feel like an outsider her whole life.
InuKimi sipped her tea, her son's cruelty towards his stepsister came from a place of spite, as well as ignorance. As a species of demon they were indeed royalty and naturally imbued with demonic power most lower demons craved. They were the perfect species of demon, InuYuki was naturally blessed with such power. However, the same way humans were naturally wary of demons, the DaiYokai saw humans as lesser weaklings, thus saw Izayoi's blood as a tainted influence on their pureblood. "Despite marrying a princess, she was previously of low birth, a lord who made his money and eventually found wealth and prosperity. Our family is from regal birth, so I suppose he took it ask an insult. Since then he's harboured a hatred and hostility towards his half sister" Inukimi sighed.
InuYuki was a princess, from both sides of her family, albeit one was a human, thus a different category of royalty. However, that was no reason for Sesshoumaru to treat her with such disdain. It seemed Sesshoumaru had been an asshole his entire life, looking down at everyone, regardless of their species. "Jeez, and I thought my family had problems" Kouga scoffed.
InuYuki took a deep breath, if she was going to say what was on her mind she needed to say so now. "Inukimi, you've always been fair to me, even though I'm the stepchild you were forced to accept into your home because of duty..." she trailed off. "I know I didn't have a lot of experience being raised in a royal court, due to my mum dying when I was a toddler, so I was never educated on manners until I was raised by you". She had cried for weeks and weeks for her mother, screaming at the top of her lungs. Throwing things, refusing to eat and even biting attendants at times. Unable to control her demonic blood and her emotions surging through her. A few times she had nearly gone feral due to her potent demon blood. Sesshoumaru had scolded her, called her a brat and at times been incredibly cruel and dismissive of her feelings. InuKimi instead of scolding her or raising her voice, was patient, calm and even comforted her in her own way. Expressing that she had lost her mother and she had nobody else to care for her. She made sure Inu was fed, bathed and had a room to herself so she wouldn't be overwhelmed. She had never held Inu but she had shown affection in her own way. Even reprimanding servants for being too harsh on the toddler.
"Izayoi was supposed to teach you herself, I'm only relieved she passed something of value onto you in her short time" InuKimi agreed. She was surprised to learn how knowledgeable InuYuki was on medicine despite her age. She loved nature, animals and had a strong sense of curiosity as expected of her age. However, she never learned how to fight, how to handle her father's sword and she didn't receive the robe of the fire rat until she was older. She had wished she could have educated InuYuki further, but she left home as soon as she turned fifteen, unable to tolerate her half brother. She came of age to raise and fend for herself, but InuKimi still had some concerns.
InuKimi could have easily become the wicked stepmother, treating her cruelly and reminding InuYuki that she was unwanted. She had never hated her stepmother, merely been impartial. InuKimi had been present in her childhood but not her teens, as soon as InuYuki decided to fend for herself, she cut all contact. But they occasionally crossed paths. "You could have thrown me out, treated me cruelly and been spiteful of your husband's second wife forcing her child onto you. You had no obligation to raise me" she reflected.
Inukimi's expression changed to surprise "You were still born of royal blood, despite your mother being a human. Regardless of my indifference to humans, you were always born to be a princess" she reminded her. She never understood her late husband's affection for humans, but he had cared deeply for Izayoi. He had even at one point earned the affection of a demon named Zero.
"You've left your castle, your royal position to come to the den of the Eastern wolf tribe to reprimand me for being a brat. You helped me out of a slump and then held a tea party for us" InuYuki mumbled. She never knew she cared so much, let alone that she would even trouble herself over such trivial matters. But she had to admit the food was good, she rarely got treats like this.
"In the future, I would prefer you communicate your grievances with your betrothed, communication is key in any marriage, instead of sulking and withholding your emotions. However, your half brother has been incessantly tormenting you as of late so you can be excused for that. But it seems I'll have to make myself more present in the future to ensure this goes smoothly" InuKimi stated firmly. This marriage was going forwards, they would be officially wed and the clans united, bringing upon a new generation of InuDaiyokai wolves. InuYuki could only be grateful her husband was loving, patient and empathetic with her, she could have done a lot worse.
InuYuki blushed, as always InuKimi was right, she needed to start trusting Kouga more, the way she did Kichirou. She needed to entrust him with her heart, knowing he would never hurt her. As much as she hated being in this position, she was someday legally going to be Kouga's wife. But what she did know was InuKimi was going to keep a close eye on her come the future.
"Well that sucked worse than getting your pelt wet in a rainstorm" Kouga groaned wearily, first Sesshoumaru causing him trouble and then his mother in law visiting him. It seemed he was handling more politics than usual. Just once he would like break to have time to himself, running an entire clan was more exhausting than it looked. He felt like he never got to spend time with Inu as a couple, doing courting, being able to kiss her, showing her how happy he could make her. There was always some complication getting in the way. Just once he would like to tell Sesshoumaru to get out of his business and let him dote on his bride to be.
"It feels like I'm being suffocated at all angles, just once I'd like my life back to being mundane" InuYuki groaned, she hated being reminded she was even a princess, all it did was bring her problems. She was supposed to be superior to other demons, classed as royalty with innate power most demons coveted their whole lives. But she had never felt that way, she felt like she was the outsider on a club everyone wanted to be part of. Everyone telling her how she was supposed to live and who she was supposed to be.
"Well, it wasn't all bad..." Kouga trailed off. His eyes roaming her, drinking her in now that her stepmother wasn't around to tease him about it. The Kimono really brought out her eyes, the colours matched just as he thought they would. Bringing an heir of regality to her, as well as a feminine air. With her hair tied back into a loose bun, her neck and face were more present, showing off her jawline. The lilac eyeshadow brought out the gold of her eyes and her rouge lips looked like petals. This alongside a wolf demon armour and her sword, he could feel a boner forming just looking at her.
InuYuki felt a shiver run down her spine, that hunger in his eyes, she knew what he wanted. Making her nervous of what was to come on their inevitable wedding night. "You're gawking again wolf boy" she teased, amusement lacing her tone.
Kouga pouted, she had sharp senses making it hard for him to be subtle. He'd never met a woman who so easily got under his skin the way she did. "My fiancé is wearing a kimono I had made for her, and you look adorable. Cut a guy some slack, I'm a hot blooded wolf demon" he huffed. The lipstick made her lips look like flower petals, her eyes shone like precious stones, the way the kimono hugged her curves perfectly and showed off her figure. She looked perfect, he never wanted to see her in anything else ever again.
InuYuki blushed, avoiding his gaze, she had to say he knew how to make a girl feel special. He was way too comfortable saying such sweet words to make her heart flutter. "When my mother died... I wanted her Kimono as a keepsake, but... Sesshoumaru destroyed it. So I lost it the day she died, seeing this... I never thought I would ever again". She felt like she'd regained something precious, something she never thought she'd see again. She remembered how her father had made the Tetsuigha in order to protect her late mother. In a way this kimono was like the sword she inherited, only it was made as a gift not to protect her, but to show his love.
Kouga snarled, his fangs flashing as anger coursed through him. He was holding himself back as to not make a scene and upset her. But his feelings were written all over his face. "Remind me to punch that guy when I get the chance" Kouga huffed, every time he thought Sesshoumaru couldn't reach a new low. InuYuki surprised him in the worst of ways, by revealing more of her miserable childhood. He seemed to revel in making Inu as miserable as possible, tearing away any happiness she was able to claim.
InuYuki snorted "I'd like to see that, the look on his face would be priceless" she joked. Nobody had ever been as ballsy as to punch Sesshoumaru in the face, unless they were incredibly stupid. She'd done so more than once but he'd never killed her for it, merely scolded her. Anyone else would have been killed on sight, she was just incredibly lucky. Kouga reached out, placing his hand atop her head to pull her closer, nuzzling her with his nose. She smelled freshly bathed and sweet, her hair as soft as ever. InuYuki was somehow the most fragile and yet admirably strong woman he'd ever encountered. For all her hardships and loneliness, she'd survived. The last thing he wanted was for her to ever feel the same heartache she had as a child. As his wife, he'd ensure she was the happiest wife in the world. InuYuki felt her cheeks heat, matching the rouge on her lips "Um... Kouga?".
"How the hell did someone as sweet as you, end up being related to such a shitty family?" Kouga muttered. She was nothing like her obnoxiously entitled and prideful older brother. Her stepmother was otherwise indifferent and wise, if not somewhat intimidating. She was the only one who seemed to show some empathy to InuYuki, albeit it felt like out of duty rather than genuine love. She'd never met her father, and the only parent she had left died when she was a toddler. She'd never known love or affection since that day, no wonder she clung to Kichirou and was so scared to lose him.
InuYuki softened, despite them being family, she'd never felt like she belonged, she'd never felt she was welcome anywhere. But Kichirou reminded her that humans could be kind, that some people could be trusted. Then Kouga gave her faith in her fellow demons again, that maybe not all demons were the monsters she had grown up around. She was princess in name only, despite her familial kin, her brother reminded her she was nothing but an eyesore. But maybe, if she married into the wolf clan, if she became Kouga's wife, she could reclaim the meaning of princess. "I guess that's the human in me, and I heard my dad had a curiosity for humans" she mumbled.
Kouga nuzzled her again, she'd been made to feel ashamed of the blood of her mother. Once he'd had a bias against half breeds, due to ignorance and fear. But then he realised that the same way cruel and brutish demons existed to revel in bloodlust and fear, humans could also be cruel and senseless. There were many half breeds in the world with no place of belonging, some chose to live amongst humans and marry them. Some chose to marry their fellow demon and forget their human blood. But he loved Inu as she was, human blood or not. "Remind me to thank your parents in the afterlife" he muttered.
InuYuki snorted "It's not their approval you have to worry about wolf, besides, like I give a shit what Sesshoumaru thinks" she teased. Her mother would have only wished her daughter happiness regardless of who she fell for. Her father would have been more stern as the patriarch of the family, and the general ranking. But all she could hope for was that their spirits watched over her, keeping her safe.
Kouga smirked, a smile of pride formed on his face flashing his white fangs at her "Now that's my future wife, courageous and strong willed" he beamed.