Adult-FanFiction.org : Inuyasha / Yashahime

My Woman	By : scattered-dimensions Category: InuYasha > Het - Male/Female > Kouga/Kagome Views: 16033 -:- Recommendations : 4 -:- Currently Reading : 6
Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha. This is purely fiction. No profit involved.

Chapter List
- 11
- 12
- 13
Kagome had faced down many foes in her short life, the Birds of Paradise, the Thunder Brothers, Naraku, Lord Sesshomaru, and her greatest foe, the dreaded exam. Now, she was nervous. No, nervous wasn’t the right word. She was…scared to death. Dread had woven its way through her normal walls of composure and wrapped itself chillingly around her bones. Everyone had made this whole prove your worth before the wolves thing sound like a walk in the park, but even Saburo was fidgety and beside himself, that in and of itself was off putting. Every time she had been the center of attention, nothing good ever came of it. This did not bode well.
They hadn’t gained a lot of support. Someone had been hard at work to ensure that wouldn’t happen, but those who were left from Kouga’s original pack were all in. She was thankful that they wouldn’t abandon her, but they were few among many. Natsuki and a few females were on her side. Saburo had gathered ten males from his old pack and Kouga rounded up twelve others. Hakkaku and Ginta came up with two. The numbers were not promising, but it was better than nothing and she was grateful.
There were other parts of the meeting that were giving her butterflies and causing her to have mixed emotions about the entire situation. This afternoon Kouga had informed her that part of Ayame’s charges depended on whether or not she was accepted as pack. This left Kagome more than a little remorseful. If she fought for her place here, like she promised she would, she could be putting another nail in Ayame’s proverbial coffin. If she backed out, she would lose the respect of all the ones who called her sister, but she had made a promise and she would keep it.
The mere thought of promises brought InuYasha to mind, and how she had promised to be by his side always. The one who stood out above all others, however, was Rin. Kagome had watched the girl grow into a beautiful and loving young woman. She had encouraged and even managed to talk Sesshomaru-sama into allowing Rin to marry Kohaku. She had promised Rin to be there for her as a mother would for her daughter and with all intents and purposes, she was just that. Rin had agreed to wait for her to return before taking her vows, but it had been four months. She had thought about Rin often, her bubbly, never a bad day nature, her easy care free smiles, but it had never been more painful than today. She regretted the pain she knew she had inflicted upon the young girl she loved and swore to herself that she would spend the rest of her life making up for her transgressions or die trying.
She could etch her place in the ookami pack, but couldn’t stay here with them. She had responsibilities and she had been gone far too long. She had another life back in Edo. It wasn’t as complete and fulfilling as it had been here during her one month of consciousness, but before she came here it had been enough and it would be again. One month of her life shouldn’t overshadow years. Besides, Kouga promised that even if she wasn’t officially accepted, they would still come and visit her.
Her mind flashed back to last night and what she had done. Her face flamed, her virginal modesty back at the most ridiculous time. What happened last night was anything but virginal and it sure wasn’t modest. She had begged for his attention in that way, knowing better. What had she been thinking? The sudden phantom feeling of Kouga’s mouth sliding over hers and his tongue running down her neck left her shivering. ‘Oh, right, that’s what it was, fine time to turn into a walking hormone.’ He had professed his love for her again and this time she was positive he meant every single syllable of each torturous word and still she did not stop. Her heart clenched and her gut twisted with guilt, making her queasy. She didn’t love him like that. How could she have led him on in such a way, only to turn around and leave him, expecting him to push his feelings aside and play the part of a good buddy? ‘How stupid can you get, Kagome?’
Even as she thought these things something inside crumbled a little more at the knowledge she had to leave the handsome ookami Prince’s side, something that wasn’t attached to guilt, something that stood on its own and was completely shrouded in mystery and confusion, something new that gnawed at her every time she looked in his hypnotizing blue eyes or when he smiled or when he would wrap his arms around her so possessively at night when they slept.
A single tear crept its way down her cheek. She swiped it away stubbornly and placed her fur cape over her shoulders and walked toward the exit of the den she shared with Kouga. She looked back at the comfy room embedding everything to memory. She still couldn’t shake the feeling of dread clinging threateningly to her. It had to be all these stressful thoughts. Now was not the time for all of this. She would answer for her ignorant actions soon enough. It was time to stand before the Counsel. She pushed her hand through the flap, but before she walked into the stone hall she turned back and grabbed the royal blue ribbon off the shelf and wrapped it around her wrist, not giving a second thought as to why.
Kouga paced the empty common area, while Kagome prepared herself. His nerves churned viciously under his skin. They had prepared the best they could under the circumstances. This was going to be a day that made the histories. Never before had the ookami race accepted a human into the pack, never had a human even been considered in such a high standing. There were many who detested the idea that she, a human Miko, was even here in the den, much less being brought into the tribe’s most sanctified place to contend for her right to become family.
Saburo had reported on the identity of the one who was spreading the rumors. He was a former Northern wolf named Hiroshi. That was a name that Kouga had known in passing. He was familiar with most of the pack, but this wolf was one he never cared to get to know. Hiroshi had never been particularly quiet in the beginning of the tribal unions about his disapproval of Kouga’s leadership. He was even more vocal about the new laws Kouga passed down protecting the human race. However, after a few years, Hiroshi had found peace amongst the pack and under his leadership or so Kouga thought. He should have known Hiroshi would rear his head and vehemently protest a human vying for rights of recognition. Kouga took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
He smelled her long before she rounded the corner to the common area. It was her naturally fresh, sugary sweet scent, but with light undertones of his own. A possessive growl rumbled through his chest as he thought about the reason for that. His little escapade last night had marked her in his scent. It wasn’t nowhere near as strong as it would have been had they mated, but it was still there and noticeable. She was going to be in a room full of wolves and they would smell it on her, no doubt causing all kinds of issues. He should have told her no, that he couldn’t. It would have been for her own protection, added insurance, but he couldn’t deny her. If anyone had a problem with what he did, they could kiss his princely ass and he would respectfully tell them just that.
His breath caught in his throat and his eyes widened at the site of Kagome walking toward him, her shoulders square and proud, her head held high. Natsuki and the other females had twisted her long, dark hair up on top of her head, her long bangs escaping their hold, flirting with her pale cheeks. She wore her usual cape and furs. It was simple and made her skin glow, her eyes standing out in the most alluring manner. She was a vision. He bowed low and offered his arm for her to take.
“Are you ready for this?” Kouga asked as she slipped her delicate hand into the crook of his proffered elbow.
“Not at all.” She said fidgeting.
“I’ll be with you every step of the way. Everything will be fine.”
“If you say so. I’ve never seen you act so formal before.” She commented, appraising him thoughtfully.
“Is that a compliment or...” He asked suddenly self-conscious.
“Definitely a compliment. You’re very handsome and regal looking when you do that. It suits you.”
“Thank you.”
He leaned down and tried to place a kiss on her lips, but she shied away. He didn’t press the issue thinking it was because of her obviously turbulent nerves.
“I promise you have nothing to worry about. You are being backed by the best of us.”
She was clearly not convinced, but he led her to the Elders’ den anyway. There was no sense in putting off the inevitable.
Saburo was waiting for them outside the Elders den, looking just as proud as Kouga. Both wolves were in full Alpha and Beta mode, fully prepared to show their dominance over their pack. Kagome suddenly felt very plain and ordinary compared to their illustrious splendor. Saburo bowed and grasped her hand, placing a chaste kiss across her knuckles.
“You look lovely, Kagome.” He said in his suave way.
“Thank you. You too.” She said returning the compliment absently.
“I look lovely? What is it about me that screams woman that you must attack me so?” He asked in mock hurt.
“Go easy on her, Saburo. She’s nervous.” Kouga said chastising his friend.
“Is that true, little one?”
She just nodded her head and looked down at the snow covered ground.
“Well, that won’t do. I can’t have my best pupil apprehensive on the day that she is to dazzle any and everyone who looks her way.”
He pulled her hand from Kouga’s arm, gaining a small glare from the Prince and hooked his clawed fingers under her chin, lifting her to look at him. He wiped away the tiny trails of tears that leaked from the corner of her eyes.
“None of that. You have learned all there is to know. All that’s left is to apply it. You are beautiful and caring, you’re sensible and courageous, and most importantly, Elders be damned, you’re my little sister. I am very proud of you, as is Kouga. We are behind you, there to elevate you in victory or catch you if you fall. Either way you are still pack. You are still family. Now remember your posture and smile.”
She straightened her back and plastered a smile on her face. Saburo was a good friend and a great big brother. He had been there for her and had been a trusted confidant, but he didn’t need to know all the reasons she was upset. She shivered, but not from the cold. There was something coming, something she couldn’t put her finger on, but it made her heart crash into her ribs at an alarming rate. Still, she had work to do and couldn’t dwell on it. She followed Kouga and Saburo inside.
The judgment chamber was massive and roared with the near deafening churn of conversation from hundreds of wolves. They were all standing around the second level area that overlooked the center of the circular room. The Elders were standing on a raised dais directly across from the entrance. Kagome had expected them to be older than what they appeared to be and fur clad like the rest of the pack. However, that was not the case. They were dressed in silk robes with fur wrapped around their shoulders and looked to be no more than a decade or so older than Sesshomaru-sama.
Taking in their majestic appearances and the power that radiated from their forms caused Kagome to swallow hard. She suddenly found it difficult to keep the pleasant smile on her face. If she thought she had been nervous before, the complete sobering reality of her situation and who she would be standing before, hit her full force. She had no time to react, no time to squeeze out another thought. Kouga stepped forward bowing low and rising, as Saburo mirrored his actions. Kouga stood in front of Kagome, temporarily blocking her view of the Elders and addressed the crowded, chattering room.
“Esteemed Elders of the Great Ookami Council and fellow brothers and sisters of the Eastern Ookami Tribe, it is my sincere honor to introduce, one who would become part of our pack, Miko Kagome.”
Kouga stepped aside revealing her to everyone’s curious gaze. There was a pregnant silent pause before one of the Elders stepped forward on the raised loft and looked down at Kagome. His hair was a burnt red, pulled away from his face and twisted into a tight waist length braid. His robes were a simple black, tied together with a white belt and a swatch of white fur sitting squarely around his shoulders. She held his turquoise gaze for a moment before the lessons of respect echoed in her mind. She bowed low and bared her neck in a sign of submission, not so patiently waiting for the Elder wolf to speak.
“You may rise, child. I am Elder Yorozohu, Eastern Ookami Tribe Representative. I assume Prince Kouga has informed you of your rights as a potential inductee and how you are expected to conduct yourself during this assembly?” His commanding, clear voice asked.
“Yes, Elder Yorozuhu, he and Beta Saburo have been most informative.” She replied confidently.
There was and eruption of whispers and scoffs upon her addressing a Council member. Another Elder wolf stepped forward, holding up a long, claw tipped hand.
“There will be silence in these chambers!”
The crowd hushed immediately and continued to watch. The Elder was dressed in a vermillion robe, adorned with a silver belt and black fur sitting askew across his left shoulder. His brown hair was cropped short and his dark, piercing eyes sent a shiver up her spine, but her posture never wavered.
“I am Elder Kamatari. I can see that you are quite brave, human, to stand before us old ones. Let this stand as a testament to her strength.” He said first to her, then to the rest of the large arena.
The next to step forward was a kind looking wolf. He had salt and pepper hair that was held back in a loose ponytail at the base of his head. His robe was the exact opposite of Elder Yorozohu’s, the robe being white and the belt black, but his furs were grey matching the shade of his hair. He resembled Saburo in a way, with his soft feature and emerald green eyes. It caused her to relax slightly.
“I am Elder Tsunenaga, little Miko. It is a pleasure to finally meet the one who has caused quite the stir.”
He smiled at her and she returned in kind. The whispers erupted anew, with more venom infliction than before. Someone shouted, “Why is this filthy human even here?”, followed by someone else shouting, “She is not our kind. She doesn’t belong here!” Kagome’s smile faded and her eyes fell to her feet. Saburo cleared his throat, causing her to lift her gaze and meet his. He winked at her and set his eyes forward; clearly defining she should do the same. She was so happy he was there.
“Enough! Enough of this constant prattle! You all will adhere to Council decorum or be removed!” A boisterous, baritone echoed.
This Elder was larger than the other three and twice as intimidating, but his dark eyes didn’t cause the cold of trepidation. They were warm, but critical. His Azure robe shifted as he stepped forward and his russet colored furs swayed behind him with each grand stride.
“I am Elder Matsusuke. You have much to prove it seems, Miko Kagome. I am intrigued as to how you will handle such, malcontent against your very existence.”
Kagome was never given the opportunity to respond to anything they had said. A group of wolves stepped forward from the wall to her left and approached the Elders. The wolf at the head of the group bowed much the same as Kouga and Saburo, but without the grace.
“Hiroshi, it is our understanding that you have been elected as the voice of those who oppose the induction of Miko Kagome as pack sister.” Elder Yorozohu said.
“That is correct, Elder Yorozohu. It is a great honor to speak on the behalf of so many. There are many concerns surrounding the very idea of a weak human joining our family.”
“Understood. Prince Kouga, you will be speaking on the behalf of those in favor of Miko Kagome, am I correct?”
“Yes, Elder Yorozohu. Once we have brought forth our evidence, we are confident that there will be no further doubt about her worthiness to join our ranks.”
“Very well, Hiroshi, you are to begin.” The Elder stated.
“It is my pleasure.” He responded with another bow.
Kouga’s eyes narrowed on the stooped wolf. He stopped himself before an irritated growl slipped out and took a subconscious step closer to Kagome.
“Is it true that you are the Shikon Miko? The very Miko that shattered the Sacred Jewel in the first place?” Hiroshi asked with a feral grin.
“That is true, but I…” She started.
“Oh, so if you were the protector of the Jewel, then why did you shatter it?” He asked before she could finish.
“I was the guardian, but I broke it by accident when…”
“Accident? Do you hear that brothers and sisters? She broke the Sacred Jewel that was entrusted to her for safety and accidently shattered it into hundreds of pieces. How much destruction did that unfortunate event cause? How many lives were lost because of your inability to carry out your duty?”
“Too many.”
It was all she said. Her words were full of remorse and unshed tears as she looked back on the time she had spent in the Feudal Era. All those years spent trying to right the wrong she had committed out of ignorance, but it hadn’t been enough. People still died. Sango’s family was murdered by Kohaku, her brother, because he was being used by Naraku. Most of Kouga’s old pack had been killed because of the Birds of Paradise, which were after the jewel shards in Kouga’s arm and legs. Even Rin was killed because of them. If she had never shattered the Jewel, Kouga would have never been searching for them, would have never been brought to that village after the wolf who had stolen the shard from him. If he had never been in that village, Rin would have never had to endure the pain of being eaten alive by wolves.
“You see, she admits her weakness. She was unable to perform her sole purpose. Her obvious incompetence was the downfall of many, including the original Eastern Ookami pack. Is this the kind of individual that we want in our pack?”
There was a loud wave of agreements from the surrounding crowd. Kouga’s blood was boiling. How dare he say such a thing?!
“Incompetence? Weakness? I think not. You are taking things out of context, Hiroshi, and twisting them to suit your own purpose. The full blame of the demise of my former underlings is my responsibility. I was their Alpha and had failed to protect them from the Birds of Paradise. Have you forgotten that none of you had thought possessing the Sacred Jewel shards was a bad thing? I had three. It was Kagome that had saved us from the Birds of Paradise. It was her Miko ability to see the shards that allowed the destruction of the Clan leader. Had she have not been there, I would not be standing here today and neither would any of you. The Eastern Ookami tribe did not fall then because it was saved by this tiny human Miko.” Kouga stated matter of factly.
There was another uproar. He had made a good point, but from some of the looks being cast Kagome’s way, it wasn’t a strong enough argument. Ginta and Hakkaku stepped forward.
“It is true. Kagome stayed on the ground with us while the Birds of Paradise swooped down and picked us off one by one. We told her to run, to save herself, but she stood her ground and saved my life when I was captured.” Ginta said confidently.
“She continued to fight to save many more lives that day. It is an indisputable fact that we wolves save who we can and abandon those who can’t be. Kagome does not see it that way. She is not weak. She is strong and brave. We have both seen her face odds that would have sent even the strongest wolf running in retreat. She has never cowered away from impossible odds. She has and will risk her life to save another and she does it without a thought of herself. I, for one, am proud to call her sister, for it is what I have always called her. She earned the title and should continue to be considered as such.” Hakkaku declared.
“I agree with my brother. She is my sister as well and regardless of what you all think, she will always be pack to us.” Ginta piped up before stepping back and allowing Kouga to speak once more.
“If that is not proof enough of her strength, then perhaps the fact that she was the one who purified the evil hanyou, Naraku? She also completed the Sacred Jewel and wished it out of existence, so it would no longer be able to be used for any purpose. Is there anyone in this pack that can say they’ve accomplished such a feat?”
“If she is such an accomplished Miko, then why was the Jewel shattered in the first place and why was it she was so gravely injured by the snake youkai? If she is as powerful as you say, then why did it take her three months to awaken from her injuries? If she is indeed the powerful Miko you claim her to be, Kouga, then why did she not heal herself and awaken sooner?” Hiroshi asked with unrestrained ire.
“Miko powers do not work that way. I am able to heal by using herbs and knowledge. I send prayers on behalf of the sick and injured, but the decision for a miracle is the divine right and prerogative of the Gods themselves. I am no God, nor do I pretend to be. My abilities have limitations, but I have never turned my back on anyone who needed help and I never will.” Kagome answered, her fiery confidence returned.
“I found Kagome tied to a tree and nearly dead. She did not have a fair chance against her enemies. They did not treat her honorably, just like they treat us in such a way, kidnapping and devouring our young, and attacking our hunting parties. It would take a demon some time to heal from the injuries she sustained. She is human and cannot heal the same as we can, but she overcame all that by sheer will alone. She could have given up and died, but she fought the darkness and returned to the land of light. This is another testament to her strength.” Saburo said, supporting her.
“Her strength you say? If her will is so strong, then why did she not return to her own village after she recovered? Does she not have duties to perform there? If she were so strong, then how is it she could turn her back on her own honor so easily?” Hiroshi sneered.
“Kagome awoke during the attack from Ayame, who is being judged this day. When she awoke, she was unable to sit alone or even feed herself. Humans cannot remain immobile without sever detriment to their muscles. She was too weak and malnourished to leave. It has taken her this many weeks just to be able to get back to her normal self and even now she is still not as strong as she was before she sustained her injuries. It was necessary for her to stay here to recover and also to stay for the hearing of Ayame, by the command of the Elders. When the weather warms, I have agreed to take her back to her village. I feel it will take her that long to be able to withstand the trip without further harm to her. She has not turned her back on her own duties. She holds them above all else, but how can she be expected to perform what is required of her if she is unable to make the trip home? Would she be able to fulfill her duties dead on the road?” Kouga replied with conviction.
Before the other wolf had time to reply, the judgment chamber doors flew open and a great and powerful aura encompassed the arena, sending most onlookers scrambling away from their positions in fear. Lord Sesshomaru walked casually into the chamber, his eyes trained on Kagome.

A/N: Sorry it has taken so long to update.
I would like to thnk Shyneamor, Vyperbites, & Tassana_Burrfoot for their encouragement and praise. Also, a very appreciative thank you for your correction Tassana_Burrfoot.
I hope the next chapters live up to everyone'sexpectations.
~scattered-dimensions~
- 11
- 12
- 13
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