Author's Rant:
Konnichiwa! Konnichiwa! Konnichiwa! I just decided to try out this pairing, since my twin was insisting I do something of this pairing. Hai, minna. This is Sango and Miroku. Of course, I find them really cute together! I think they are meant for each other! But... As far as I am concerned, I haven't tried anything of this. And in memory of my twin who practically loooves the monk [We both harass monks, if you don't mind, since Genjo Sanzo and Uesugi Tatsuha and our dear Houshi-sama here are all of the same vocation], and for being in the dumps after my last update, I should continue to write this S/M fic.
I thank again those who reviewed and stuck with the story. [Can you believe this fic is a year and a quarter old already?] You don't know how much your support meant to me when I read your reviews two months ago! *sobs*
And yeah, since a reviewer told me that she has restrictions when it comes to the rating of the story, I decided to not make it R. I'll just have a bit of what I really was planning. Anyway, the descriptions are the only ones that make it R and even if I remove that part, it'd still be the same. I'm just hoping ff.net would not screw up with the real format of this chapter.
Oh, and an anonymous review caught my eye and yes, I was quite impressed that you still noticed that. You see to tell you all honestly, I haven't really watched and read everything Inuyasha and there were some episodes (from the scarce 50 episodes shown here) that I still missed -- and one of those is my precious Houshi-sama's first appearance. So if it makes or qualifies as an excuse... when I wrote this fic one and a half year ago (almost), I didn't really know too much of them. All I know is that they're canon, they really look good together, and that there is undeniable chemistry between them. (C'mon, don't tell me you honestly don't believe the saying "the more you hate the more you love," right?") Am am gravely sorry for all the errors I committed in the previous chapters...
~Shohoku no Miko~©
Inu-Yasha: A Medieval Pulp Fantasy -er- Inu-Yasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale ©Takahashi Rumiko.
XCS: This story is dedicated to a dear friend, FluffyLemonn [thanks for the e-shoulder] Also to my twin, MidoriTenshiSakura. Wherever you are...
Teach Me How To Love By Shohoku no Miko
Chapter Fifteen: Jugo
Miroku could feel his sweat rolling down from his bangs. Although he never underestimated an enemy ever since he knew how to fight, this one was tougher than he thought! His sword skills were that of an assasin's. The way he used both the sword and the hilt gave him little time to form an offensive attack. And this guy surely was also instructed by a ninja. His graceful yet firm and strong moves together with his balance, undeniably fast reflexes and hidden weapons indicated such.
Or was it only due to the shards implanted on him?
"Getting tired, monk?" Toya smiled mockingly.
Miroku then found an opening at his side and he stabbed the end of his staff on his gut. "Not yet even burning up, imposter."
Toya let out a terrible cry of pain as he stepped back, clutching his stomach as Miroku advanced at him. Sensing another attack, he thrust his sword forward.
Miroku reacted as fast as he could and barely avoided the edge of the sword. As a result he was slashed on his left forearm. He hissed at the aching sensation, but managed to hit him again, this time on the hollow of his neck, and pushed him against the wall.
He sized up the guy he pinned towards the wall and thrust his staff deeper on his throat, severing the airway of Toya.
"Give us the shards if you prefer to live, Toya." He said.
"Not a chance, monk!" Toya quickly slashed Miroku on his right forearm then jumped away from him once his grip loosened a bit. "It's not that easy!"
Inuyasha tensed as he saw the samurai-ninja guy jump away from Miroku and towards them. He held the Tetsusaiga in front of him and moved in front of Kagome and a now bandaged Sango. "Don't you dare touch them or I'll use the Kaze no Kizu on you!" He growled.
"You better not, for we're not yet done, Toya." Miroku spoke as he struggled to stand straight.
*******
"What do you want?"
Kouga growled. He knew talking to her would really be a tough one, but hell, this business is far more important than the tantrums she'd been throwing!
"Look. I didn't spread those gossips about you being my slave, okay?" He shifted from his stance in impatience. "... Just... Let's go back and..."
"And...?" Kagura taunted.
Kouga was already at the verge of throwing up. "What... Fine! I'll tell them you are not my slave! Now get down here and let's go back already!" He shouted then looked away as he whispered "...my tribe's in trouble..."
But for the fuuyoukai the whispered words were like bells ringing, announcing her victory. "Oh, you mean you WANT me back so I'd help chase the intruders away now, don't you?"
Kouga's composure almost crashed but he contained his emotions. If being mocked by this... this... woman would get her lazy ass moving then so be it. After the battle, they'd all get over it eventually... He breathed before he spoke. "Yes. Now we have to go back and save my tribe so I'd still have a reason to keep the shards..."
And there's always another chance to humiliate, bicker and play with her.
"Ah, a different side, I see. Now say please or I'll just sit here and watch another slaughter." She raised a knowing eyebrow, taunting him and indicating her enjoyment.
"And you'll just be happy about it, right? A whole army out of the way. Very easy to predict." He snapped, not realizing the shooting accusations he just said.
Kagura's smirk turned to a grim smile as she rolled the feather on her hands. "Really now, ookami. Have it your way then. I could always get the shards..."
Kouga realized the mistake he made. 'Kuso!' He thought, as he saw the only chance of surviving and retaining their position in the youkai caste system crumble in front of him... Well, aside from transforming...
Damn pride... If only he was taught the art of persuasion and NOT torturing and threatening. "Okay, okay! I'll tell them you are not my slave, treat you as one of us AND return your fan!" He almost threw his hands up in exasperation. "Just..." He hesitated. Why was it so difficult to say? "... Please..." He finally got himself to say, though forced.
"Oh... So where's my fan, huh?"
Kouga looked at her warily and brought out the fan from his clothing. "Here." He sent it flying towards her as she catched it and inspected it. "I didn't do anything with that, Kagura. I'm a prince with a word. What do you think of me?"
She smiled smugly and tested her fan by swishing it against the wind. "Still the same, I see. Though damaged a little... But still good." Kagura stood up on the thick branch she was sitting at, jumped and transformed her feather into a big one and hovered above the ground. She flicked her fan and in an instant, a gust of wind lifted Kouga from the ground.
Kouga on the other hand was surprised when he was abruptly lifted in the air and deposited on Kagura's feather. "Kagura, what the --"
"What? You don't want to get there at once? Your tribe's in danger, right?" She answered him and the wind picked up and took them to the northern valley.
*******
Little by little, Sango could decipher what was happening to her. Kagome was dressing up her wounds, Shippou sat beside her and used his magic to help give some light to what Kagome was doing, and Kirara was patiently waiting for her to become conscious.
"That bouzou should have defeated that hanyou by now... Damn!" Inuyasha muttered and cursed under his breath.
"Inuyasha, Miroku-sama is trying his best, okay? Just... It's his fight... I know you wouldn't want anyone meddling with yours... He'll defeat Toya. Though I pray he finishes him now..." Kagome answered.
The exchange was heard by the now conscious Sango who didn't pry her eyes open yet. She wanted to say something too, and she also wanted to battle with the enemy...
She tried lifting her hand but the aching sensation on her finger joints just made her hands twitch.
"Kagome-chan, Sango-chan is moving!" Shippou exclaimed.
"Sango-chan!" Kagome smiled at her, greeting her vision as her eyes adjusted to the light.
"K-Kagome-chan... Shippou-chan..." She responded as she felt the other girl embrace her. A nuzzle on her arm told her that her pet Kirara was also there, and noticed her awareness. "Kirara..." The feline responded by rubbing its head against the back of her hand.
"You've been gone for a week, you know." Inuyasha glanced at her.
"Inuyasha..."
She turned her head to the side and noticed a battle going on. Miroku had a gash from his inner forearm to his wrist and a damage on his glove. Blood was also oozing out from a wound on his stomach and he was a little careful with his right foot. On the other hand, his enemy -- who she now recognizes as the Toya she met when she was younger -- had burns on his body and stabs on his limbs and torso. His sword was held out before him and blood was dripping from its edge.
"Hou...shi...sama..." She mumbled as she tried her best to stand, but a restraining hand kept her from doing so.
"Have faith, Sango-chan. Miroku-sama will defeat him for you." Kagome reassured as she once again was pulled into unconsciousness.
*******
Kouga didn't know what to feel. Sure, he was happy his tribe was unharmed and his territory was safe, but he still can't believe that Kagura would willingly defend them against their enemies. And worse, he still has to settle the rumor she was so irritated and affected about. Hah, the youkai could have killed them the moment she heard the words, but no. She just stormed in on his cave and told him of it.
"Kouga, can I talk to you for a sec?" Ginta tapped his shoulder as he stood in front of his cave while watching his pack go about their lives in the light of the early morning.
"Sure."
"Why did that youkai help us?" Ginta asked, his gaze pointing at the elegant woman sitting regally on a rock around thirty meters from them. "I hope you haven't forgotten that she slew our fellow wolves."
"It was her end of the bargain, Ginta." He responded. "Kagura and I had talked about this."
"I don't know about this, Kouga." Ginta whispered as he saw Kagura glance at them.
"Don't worry, she's my responsibility." He reassured. Ginta merely shrugged and went back to work.
He went back inside his cave and removed his leg warmers, pleased that the territory that his forefathers have preserved were still theirs. He sat and rested his head against the wall and spreaded his arms on the rocks strategically arranged to allow him to place them on either sides level with his shoulders. He savored the sheep skin he used as a sort of seat cover. He could have his rest now...
"I'm your responsibility, huh? Should I applaud you for that?" Kagura taunted as she leaned on the side of the cave entrance, fanning herself.
"You were eavesdropping, then. I never thought of you as such." He retorted without opening his eyes.
Kagura scoffed. "Have you forgotten? I am the wind." She walked in and sat on the huge throne-like chair Kouga was sitting at. "And I did do my end of the bargain... Now where's yours?"
He sighed as he again opened his eyes, surprised that Kagura actually sat beside him. "Kagura, its early in the morning..."
"So?"
"You could at least let them do their chores first before that." He retorted.
"And that just gives them time to gossip more about me, right." She faced him, her scarlet gaze determined and fiery.
"Look. If you can't wait for the pack to come together this evening then suit yourself. You'll just tire yourself..." He answered, his blue eyes unwavering and icy.
"... Fine! As long as you do keep your word!"
Kouga smirked. "I'm a prince, not a barbarian."
Kagura's eyes narrowed. "Are you INSINUATING something, ookami-boy?"
"Am I... Majo? Do tell me..."
"Well for one, Mr. I'm-a-prince-I-give-my-word, you are trying to insult me. Another thing, OOKAMI-BOY, You --"
"An old married couple! An old married couple!" A cub sung loudly from the other end of the cave, stepping into the light as Kouga ran his hand through his hair in irritation.
He spun his head to look for the owner of the voice but suddenly felt a tug on his hair. He turned around.
"Boo!"
Kouga rolled his eyes at the cub, but can't help but smile at the naughtiness and mischief in him. "Early today, Haru?" He ruffled the cub's hair.
"I can't wait to go hunting today! Hunting! Hunting!" Haru exclaimed, jumping to occupy the space between Kouga and Kagura. The boy looked up at Kagura. "Is she your wife?"
Kouga almost doubled over at the question. "Haru, she's--"
"I am NOT his wife, boy. I'm --" She seethed at the innocence of the question. She knew that children were really inquisitive (well, save for her sister), but she can't help it!
"She's Kagura, my friend." Kouga finished as he looked Kagura straight in the eye, showing no pretensions and offering sincerity. "Haru, this is Miss Kagura. She's going to stay with us for a while." Kouga didn't really know what to tell him. The kid might get traumatized at the knowledge of her merciless slaughter and the queer symbiotic relationship they have.
"Friend?" Haru questioned. "But my kaa-san told me that she is the wit--"
Kouga intercepted what he knew could send Kagura over the edge. She might be restraining herself now, but he knew that with that word, she'll forget that Haru was only a child... That is, if she had emotions... "Haru, Miss Kagura is not a... a..." Should he say it?
"Witch?" Haru finished.
Kouga almost wanted to throw his hands in the air in exasperation. At the same time, he admired the honesty of children. "... Yes... She's our friend. Did you know that she was the one who got you from the huge spider that wanted to eat you?" He asked, his voice animatedly changing with the gesture in his hands that wriggled.
"She did?" Haru asked.
"I did?" Kagura asked herself. She did help the men in killing the other youkai, but was she the one who did the rescue? 'I thought Kouga did that...'
"You DID, Miss Kagura... Have you forgotten?" He looked at her meaningfully.
"I did?" An inquiring eyebrow shot up. His eyes told her to follow her lead. "Ah, yes... The big spider was very hungry when he caught you..."
"Thank you, Miss Kagura!" Haru smiled up at her.
"Sure, no problem, boy." She smiled back and ruffled the boy's hair, imitating what Kouga did earlier. Somehow, she felt good when the boy thanked her. And worse, she felt really appreciated when Kouga referred to her as a friend... HIS friend... She was never allowed to feel such...
Haru ran out of the cave and into the light, leaving the two inside. The moment the cub left, Kagura narrowed her eyes. "WHAT was THAT?" She asked.
"You should thank me, Kagura. Almost everyone in town believes that young cub. You were lucky." He grinned cockily. "I INTEND to keep my end of the bargain." He rested his head on the rock again. "Bet you liked being called my wife, huh?"
Kagura turned red with fury. "You... You insufferable jerk!"
"Thank you." He smiled at her.
"Ooh... I hate you! I wish you'd vanish into thin air!"
"Be careful what you wish for, Kagura."
"You bet I will!"
"Yeah, whatever. Now give me a break, I'm really sleepy." Kouga yawned a huge bear-yawn. "And I trust you to not do anything fishy, Kagura. I kept my part of the bargain, and I still intend to do so." He repeated before he closed his eyes. For some unknown reason, he was confident that Kagura wouldn't do anything. He knew her secret, and he already did his part. All they needed to do was to keep up with the symbiotic relationship and wait for everything to turn back into normal, and they'd be able to live their lives again.
What he didn't see was the sincere smile that crept on Kagura's usually cold and proud features as she walked to the other side of the cave, where she was given a makeshift bed. This was the first time she felt that she was really treated AND given respect without even terrorizing, scaring or threatening anyone. And that was even after she killed almost half of his pack!
Maybe it was only because they had a deal. A deal that gave them both the advantage without even exerting too much effort. Well, maybe, out of the way and against her master's wishes, but still, she knew that what she was doing right now is what will lead her to her freedom in the future.
She laid down slowly, being careful not to crease her precious kimono and slightly elevating her head so as to not disarrange her hair. Sleep was calling her; and she had no intention of sneaking out of the bargain.
*******
In the end, Inuyasha knocked down Toya with his signature Kaze no Kizu, finishing the fight. Miroku was badly injured and his shakujou wasn't the best weapon to damage a person, more so open the flesh and get the shards. But on the other hand, Toya could barely move a muscle and could no longer even say a comprehesible word.
His body transformed into ashes as the shards dropped down from the air, the only three particles left of a once living youkai... or hanyou...
Kagome picked up the shards and began purifying them before placing them on her vial. Inuyasha, on the other hand, shook the dark red stain on his Tetsusaiga and sheathed it.
"Thank you, Inuyasha." A bruised and battered Miroku sitting on a rock beside Sango's unconscious form finally said.
"Keh. Could've done that sooner... Though you did a great job on that imposter." Inuyasha walked towards a kneeling Kagome. "Are you done yet?"
"Just a sec... There." She stood up and faced Inuyasha. "Were you hurt?"
"Gah! I'm not that weak!" He retorted. But deep inside he knew that this was her way of showing concern.
"Inuyasha..." Kagome reprimanded, averting her eyes towards the other members of their group. "Miroku-sama, gomen ne, can you still stand?"
"Ah, thank you for your concern, but I'd rather that you look for Sango- sama's welfare than mine. A little rest will do..." He inhaled sharply at a stinging sensation on his side got his attention.
"You're hurt, I can tell. Sango-chan's wounds have already been dressed. It's your turn now..." Kagome grabbed her pack and ordered Miroku to remove his outer robes.
"Oi, Kagome. Let's do that in Kaede-baabaa's hut." Inuyasha stood on her side.
"Ah, Inuyasha. Sango-sama is not that fit for travel yet, so I suggest we take advantage of this cave to serve as our camp for a few days." Miroku replied calmly, ignoring the painful medicine Kagome sprinkled on his shoulder.
"A few days?" Inuyasha complained.
"A FEW DAYS, Inuyasha. We can't risk Sango-chan's and Miroku-sama's health by letting them be transported around." Kagome stopped attending at Miroku's wounds to look up at Inuyasha. "Besides, we got three shards. Three shards, Inuyasha. And we've so far accumulated more than half of the Shikon no Tama." She smiled, confident that she'll convince the hanyou. "Please...?" She added, giving him a smile that she knew he can't resist.
Indignant, Inuyasha crossed his arms and looked away. "Feh." He retorted as he walked towards the other end of the cave.
Kagome's smile broadened at Inuyasha's response. That was his usual attitude when he gives in. She turned back to Miroku who fell asleep sitting and began dressing his wounds.
Shippou sat beside Kagome and began assisting her. After a long silence, the kitsune spoke. "Funny, it was always Sango-chan who dressed his wounds after battle, or the other way around..."
"Well..." Kagome began. "... It may be like that, but that's a different situation, ne?" She placed a gauze on the puncture on Miroku's shoulder before putting on some bandage. "And this time, Miroku-sama saved her when she no longer knew what she was doing..."
"Yeah..." Shippou agreed as he handed her the cloth she used for dabbing the medicine. "He risked his life for her..."
"You know Shippou, you're more than the kid that I know." Kagome smiled. "Is that the effect of hanging out with us too much?"
*******
Naraku saw his ningyo split into half. This wasn't going on as he planned! 'But that was good riddance anyway...' He thought smugly as he crushed the wooden doll.
*******
Kagura awoke to the smell of burning meat and chatter. She blinked her eyes and began to stand up as the cold surface her feet hit suddenly registered that she wasn't in her room in Naraku's castle.
"So the sleeping beauty has awakened, huh? O-sou-yo, Kagura-SAMA." Kouga smirked as he looked down on her.
Kagura stretched her arms and covered her mouth to suppress a yawn. "Don't start, ookami-boy." She sat up and looked for her fan that was missing. She remembered placing it beside her before sleeping... "Where did you hide my fan, huh?"
"Your fan? Ah, your fan. Got someone to fix it... Don't worry, the other piece was still with me." He smiled cockily as he walked towards the other side of the cave. "Dinner's about to be ready so get up, lazy ass."
"Dinner?" Kagura asked. How long had she been sleeping then? She was surprised that she was asleep for more than three hours, and was more surprised that she wasn't even torn into pieces by the wolves!
"The pack will be gathering later at dinner so if I were you, I'd fix my hair..." Kouga walked towards her, handing her another set of kimono. "But you should go wash yourself first, you stink like hell. There's a spring on the inner part of this cave, just follow those torches... You're reeking of blood, I can smell you even outside!" He grinned as he dropped the clothes in front of her and turned to walk out of the cave.
Kagura was more than perplexed. First she fell asleep on dangerous territories, wakes up whole and unharmed, and now given a bath and some dinner! "Kouga, wait..." She spoke, effectively stopping him from going out of the cave. "... Why are you doing this...?"
Kouga merely looked up at the ceiling of the cave. "We had a deal, remember? Your help in protecting my territories in exchange for not giving up the shards and having a place to stay while waiting..." He took another step before continuing. "... And I had to clear the rumors of you being held as prisoner. I treat everyone in my land equally. And while you're here, it applies to you too."
Kagura didn't really know what to say. Naraku has never -- will NEVER -- treat her like this, like a... a... human or some living thing. She was merely a toy, a puppet that dare not defy him for fear of being killed...
... But that was before...
She felt an aching sensation in her heart. 'Naraku...?' She thought as she recognized pain. But no... It was different. Whenever it was Naraku hurting her, there was always a burning sensation, a lingering pain... But this... this... feeling... Was she learning something new?
In an instant, different events flashed in her mind. Crying women and children, screaming for help... Men kneeling in front of her, begging for their lives... Kohaku holding his head in his hands and squeezing his eyes shut, struggling to ease the pain while she whipped him with her winds... Kouga's pack crying out in agony as her Fuujin no Mai hit them...
With every memory coming back to her, her heart ached.
'I'm sorry...' She heard Kohaku once say to Sango when he gained control over his mind and saw what he did...
'I'm sorry...' She saw the little girl with Sesshomaru, Rin, say as she bowed her head and showed that she knew that Sesshomaru didn't like what she did...
I'm sorry... Those words... They were said whenever a person realizes that he did something wrong...
Regret... Guilt... Apology... The emotions registered in her heart, and she knew she was feeling it right now.
"Kouga... I'm sorry..." Kagura found herself saying the words she never used. "... For killing your pack, and using them against you..." She felt so ashamed all of a sudden. Was she really that bad? That heartless? "I... I didn't mean it... It was only an order... Naraku, he..." She looked down and felt something wet coming out from her eyes...
Tears...?
But tears are only for those who are weak... She wasn't weak...
"Kagura." She looked up and saw Kouga looking at her. Will he laugh now that he saw an evidence that she was weak?
'But I'm not weak!' An inner voice cried out. She quickly wiped the tears on her cheeks. "I-I'll go wash up now..."
"Kagura..." Kouga repeated, his tone telling her that he was to say something more. "... I know... I know you didn't want to..."
She saw understanding in his blue orbs, something that Naraku and Kanna never had in theirs. "... But still..."
"You should wash up now. Dinner's just about ready." He turned and headed outside the cave.
But Kagura was still confused. "Why are you doing all of this to me despite my arrogance?" She asked, desperately looking for an answer.
Kouga stopped just beyond the cave entrance. "I told you... I'm a prince, not a barbarian..." He walked towards the group of men outside.
Kagura smiled happily, wiping the tracks left by her tears as she went to wash herself. She had never ever felt so happy and so carefree before...
... All because of those words she had heard for the longest time but never really understood.
She sighed in relief and smiled again. "Thank you, Kouga..."
....tsuzuku...
Author's Rant:
There. Done and posted. I purposely ended the battle between Miroku and Toya because I don't really know how to write such fighting scenes. The same is true with the youkai battle that Kouga faced. You may have noticed that this and the previous chapters were mostly Kouga and Kagura, but I can't help it. This fic was writing itself. But don't worry, Miroku and Sango still have some... Lessons... to have. You know what I mean. ^_^
Oh, and I have a question: What do you call those wooden things that one writes on whenever he wants to have his wish come true? The one that people hang on a wall in a part of a shrine or temple... I really need to know it as soon as possible. If you have watched the Chinese show My MVP Valentine, Xiao Xi (Angela Zhang of Dolphin Bay) was featured offering a prayer and her wish twice in a shrine. The second time she did wish for something, the other members of Cheis Wei (sp?), coincidentally prayed too for the championship title in the High School Tournament. If you're wondering, this show was inspired by an all-time favorite anime "Slam Dunk" (there are practically evidences on the show! The poster on their club room/locker, the theme itself, the tournament that was referred to as the InterHigh in Slam Dunk, the rivalry between Tuan Cheung Feung (An All-Star Chinese Team member that I forgot the name -_-) and Tai Zi (Toni of 5566) as the ace of the team mirrored as such by Rukawa Kaede and Hanamichi Sakuragi's and fight for the heart of Xiao Xi who is Akagi Haruko (it's kind of one-sided in Slam Dunk though, because Rukawa doesn't really know that Haruko exists), the rivalry of Tuan Cheung Feung and Iceman of the other team patterned to Rukawa Kaede and Sendoh Akira's rivalry...)
Oh, and did you know that two songs from the Inuyasha: Sengoku o Togi Zoushi themes were used in this show? ("Dearest" by Hamasaki Ayumi and "Every Heart" by BoA) I was beginning to think that the show stole the Inuyasha soundtrack because they also had Do As Infinity's song... But I figured the show was aired in 2002, which I think used the songs first before Inuyasha did... But oh well, not really my business... (Most Chinese series use Japanese songs in their Soundtracks)
Geh. I know I said too much again but I can't really help it. So I'm going to end this by saying sorry for all the errors I committed. Please leave a review! And please lend a hand on my predicament!
Ah, and yes! Before I forget, please read my other fic, "Anata No Tame Ni," a surefire SangoxMiroku fiction. If you liked this fic then I'm sure you'll like that one all the more.
Review... Please?!
Ja, mata ne!
~Shohoku no Miko~©
Konnichiwa! Konnichiwa! Konnichiwa! I just decided to try out this pairing, since my twin was insisting I do something of this pairing. Hai, minna. This is Sango and Miroku. Of course, I find them really cute together! I think they are meant for each other! But... As far as I am concerned, I haven't tried anything of this. And in memory of my twin who practically loooves the monk [We both harass monks, if you don't mind, since Genjo Sanzo and Uesugi Tatsuha and our dear Houshi-sama here are all of the same vocation], and for being in the dumps after my last update, I should continue to write this S/M fic.
I thank again those who reviewed and stuck with the story. [Can you believe this fic is a year and a quarter old already?] You don't know how much your support meant to me when I read your reviews two months ago! *sobs*
And yeah, since a reviewer told me that she has restrictions when it comes to the rating of the story, I decided to not make it R. I'll just have a bit of what I really was planning. Anyway, the descriptions are the only ones that make it R and even if I remove that part, it'd still be the same. I'm just hoping ff.net would not screw up with the real format of this chapter.
Oh, and an anonymous review caught my eye and yes, I was quite impressed that you still noticed that. You see to tell you all honestly, I haven't really watched and read everything Inuyasha and there were some episodes (from the scarce 50 episodes shown here) that I still missed -- and one of those is my precious Houshi-sama's first appearance. So if it makes or qualifies as an excuse... when I wrote this fic one and a half year ago (almost), I didn't really know too much of them. All I know is that they're canon, they really look good together, and that there is undeniable chemistry between them. (C'mon, don't tell me you honestly don't believe the saying "the more you hate the more you love," right?") Am am gravely sorry for all the errors I committed in the previous chapters...
~Shohoku no Miko~©
Inu-Yasha: A Medieval Pulp Fantasy -er- Inu-Yasha: A Feudal Fairy Tale ©Takahashi Rumiko.
XCS: This story is dedicated to a dear friend, FluffyLemonn [thanks for the e-shoulder] Also to my twin, MidoriTenshiSakura. Wherever you are...
Teach Me How To Love By Shohoku no Miko
Chapter Fifteen: Jugo
Miroku could feel his sweat rolling down from his bangs. Although he never underestimated an enemy ever since he knew how to fight, this one was tougher than he thought! His sword skills were that of an assasin's. The way he used both the sword and the hilt gave him little time to form an offensive attack. And this guy surely was also instructed by a ninja. His graceful yet firm and strong moves together with his balance, undeniably fast reflexes and hidden weapons indicated such.
Or was it only due to the shards implanted on him?
"Getting tired, monk?" Toya smiled mockingly.
Miroku then found an opening at his side and he stabbed the end of his staff on his gut. "Not yet even burning up, imposter."
Toya let out a terrible cry of pain as he stepped back, clutching his stomach as Miroku advanced at him. Sensing another attack, he thrust his sword forward.
Miroku reacted as fast as he could and barely avoided the edge of the sword. As a result he was slashed on his left forearm. He hissed at the aching sensation, but managed to hit him again, this time on the hollow of his neck, and pushed him against the wall.
He sized up the guy he pinned towards the wall and thrust his staff deeper on his throat, severing the airway of Toya.
"Give us the shards if you prefer to live, Toya." He said.
"Not a chance, monk!" Toya quickly slashed Miroku on his right forearm then jumped away from him once his grip loosened a bit. "It's not that easy!"
Inuyasha tensed as he saw the samurai-ninja guy jump away from Miroku and towards them. He held the Tetsusaiga in front of him and moved in front of Kagome and a now bandaged Sango. "Don't you dare touch them or I'll use the Kaze no Kizu on you!" He growled.
"You better not, for we're not yet done, Toya." Miroku spoke as he struggled to stand straight.
*******
"What do you want?"
Kouga growled. He knew talking to her would really be a tough one, but hell, this business is far more important than the tantrums she'd been throwing!
"Look. I didn't spread those gossips about you being my slave, okay?" He shifted from his stance in impatience. "... Just... Let's go back and..."
"And...?" Kagura taunted.
Kouga was already at the verge of throwing up. "What... Fine! I'll tell them you are not my slave! Now get down here and let's go back already!" He shouted then looked away as he whispered "...my tribe's in trouble..."
But for the fuuyoukai the whispered words were like bells ringing, announcing her victory. "Oh, you mean you WANT me back so I'd help chase the intruders away now, don't you?"
Kouga's composure almost crashed but he contained his emotions. If being mocked by this... this... woman would get her lazy ass moving then so be it. After the battle, they'd all get over it eventually... He breathed before he spoke. "Yes. Now we have to go back and save my tribe so I'd still have a reason to keep the shards..."
And there's always another chance to humiliate, bicker and play with her.
"Ah, a different side, I see. Now say please or I'll just sit here and watch another slaughter." She raised a knowing eyebrow, taunting him and indicating her enjoyment.
"And you'll just be happy about it, right? A whole army out of the way. Very easy to predict." He snapped, not realizing the shooting accusations he just said.
Kagura's smirk turned to a grim smile as she rolled the feather on her hands. "Really now, ookami. Have it your way then. I could always get the shards..."
Kouga realized the mistake he made. 'Kuso!' He thought, as he saw the only chance of surviving and retaining their position in the youkai caste system crumble in front of him... Well, aside from transforming...
Damn pride... If only he was taught the art of persuasion and NOT torturing and threatening. "Okay, okay! I'll tell them you are not my slave, treat you as one of us AND return your fan!" He almost threw his hands up in exasperation. "Just..." He hesitated. Why was it so difficult to say? "... Please..." He finally got himself to say, though forced.
"Oh... So where's my fan, huh?"
Kouga looked at her warily and brought out the fan from his clothing. "Here." He sent it flying towards her as she catched it and inspected it. "I didn't do anything with that, Kagura. I'm a prince with a word. What do you think of me?"
She smiled smugly and tested her fan by swishing it against the wind. "Still the same, I see. Though damaged a little... But still good." Kagura stood up on the thick branch she was sitting at, jumped and transformed her feather into a big one and hovered above the ground. She flicked her fan and in an instant, a gust of wind lifted Kouga from the ground.
Kouga on the other hand was surprised when he was abruptly lifted in the air and deposited on Kagura's feather. "Kagura, what the --"
"What? You don't want to get there at once? Your tribe's in danger, right?" She answered him and the wind picked up and took them to the northern valley.
*******
Little by little, Sango could decipher what was happening to her. Kagome was dressing up her wounds, Shippou sat beside her and used his magic to help give some light to what Kagome was doing, and Kirara was patiently waiting for her to become conscious.
"That bouzou should have defeated that hanyou by now... Damn!" Inuyasha muttered and cursed under his breath.
"Inuyasha, Miroku-sama is trying his best, okay? Just... It's his fight... I know you wouldn't want anyone meddling with yours... He'll defeat Toya. Though I pray he finishes him now..." Kagome answered.
The exchange was heard by the now conscious Sango who didn't pry her eyes open yet. She wanted to say something too, and she also wanted to battle with the enemy...
She tried lifting her hand but the aching sensation on her finger joints just made her hands twitch.
"Kagome-chan, Sango-chan is moving!" Shippou exclaimed.
"Sango-chan!" Kagome smiled at her, greeting her vision as her eyes adjusted to the light.
"K-Kagome-chan... Shippou-chan..." She responded as she felt the other girl embrace her. A nuzzle on her arm told her that her pet Kirara was also there, and noticed her awareness. "Kirara..." The feline responded by rubbing its head against the back of her hand.
"You've been gone for a week, you know." Inuyasha glanced at her.
"Inuyasha..."
She turned her head to the side and noticed a battle going on. Miroku had a gash from his inner forearm to his wrist and a damage on his glove. Blood was also oozing out from a wound on his stomach and he was a little careful with his right foot. On the other hand, his enemy -- who she now recognizes as the Toya she met when she was younger -- had burns on his body and stabs on his limbs and torso. His sword was held out before him and blood was dripping from its edge.
"Hou...shi...sama..." She mumbled as she tried her best to stand, but a restraining hand kept her from doing so.
"Have faith, Sango-chan. Miroku-sama will defeat him for you." Kagome reassured as she once again was pulled into unconsciousness.
*******
Kouga didn't know what to feel. Sure, he was happy his tribe was unharmed and his territory was safe, but he still can't believe that Kagura would willingly defend them against their enemies. And worse, he still has to settle the rumor she was so irritated and affected about. Hah, the youkai could have killed them the moment she heard the words, but no. She just stormed in on his cave and told him of it.
"Kouga, can I talk to you for a sec?" Ginta tapped his shoulder as he stood in front of his cave while watching his pack go about their lives in the light of the early morning.
"Sure."
"Why did that youkai help us?" Ginta asked, his gaze pointing at the elegant woman sitting regally on a rock around thirty meters from them. "I hope you haven't forgotten that she slew our fellow wolves."
"It was her end of the bargain, Ginta." He responded. "Kagura and I had talked about this."
"I don't know about this, Kouga." Ginta whispered as he saw Kagura glance at them.
"Don't worry, she's my responsibility." He reassured. Ginta merely shrugged and went back to work.
He went back inside his cave and removed his leg warmers, pleased that the territory that his forefathers have preserved were still theirs. He sat and rested his head against the wall and spreaded his arms on the rocks strategically arranged to allow him to place them on either sides level with his shoulders. He savored the sheep skin he used as a sort of seat cover. He could have his rest now...
"I'm your responsibility, huh? Should I applaud you for that?" Kagura taunted as she leaned on the side of the cave entrance, fanning herself.
"You were eavesdropping, then. I never thought of you as such." He retorted without opening his eyes.
Kagura scoffed. "Have you forgotten? I am the wind." She walked in and sat on the huge throne-like chair Kouga was sitting at. "And I did do my end of the bargain... Now where's yours?"
He sighed as he again opened his eyes, surprised that Kagura actually sat beside him. "Kagura, its early in the morning..."
"So?"
"You could at least let them do their chores first before that." He retorted.
"And that just gives them time to gossip more about me, right." She faced him, her scarlet gaze determined and fiery.
"Look. If you can't wait for the pack to come together this evening then suit yourself. You'll just tire yourself..." He answered, his blue eyes unwavering and icy.
"... Fine! As long as you do keep your word!"
Kouga smirked. "I'm a prince, not a barbarian."
Kagura's eyes narrowed. "Are you INSINUATING something, ookami-boy?"
"Am I... Majo? Do tell me..."
"Well for one, Mr. I'm-a-prince-I-give-my-word, you are trying to insult me. Another thing, OOKAMI-BOY, You --"
"An old married couple! An old married couple!" A cub sung loudly from the other end of the cave, stepping into the light as Kouga ran his hand through his hair in irritation.
He spun his head to look for the owner of the voice but suddenly felt a tug on his hair. He turned around.
"Boo!"
Kouga rolled his eyes at the cub, but can't help but smile at the naughtiness and mischief in him. "Early today, Haru?" He ruffled the cub's hair.
"I can't wait to go hunting today! Hunting! Hunting!" Haru exclaimed, jumping to occupy the space between Kouga and Kagura. The boy looked up at Kagura. "Is she your wife?"
Kouga almost doubled over at the question. "Haru, she's--"
"I am NOT his wife, boy. I'm --" She seethed at the innocence of the question. She knew that children were really inquisitive (well, save for her sister), but she can't help it!
"She's Kagura, my friend." Kouga finished as he looked Kagura straight in the eye, showing no pretensions and offering sincerity. "Haru, this is Miss Kagura. She's going to stay with us for a while." Kouga didn't really know what to tell him. The kid might get traumatized at the knowledge of her merciless slaughter and the queer symbiotic relationship they have.
"Friend?" Haru questioned. "But my kaa-san told me that she is the wit--"
Kouga intercepted what he knew could send Kagura over the edge. She might be restraining herself now, but he knew that with that word, she'll forget that Haru was only a child... That is, if she had emotions... "Haru, Miss Kagura is not a... a..." Should he say it?
"Witch?" Haru finished.
Kouga almost wanted to throw his hands in the air in exasperation. At the same time, he admired the honesty of children. "... Yes... She's our friend. Did you know that she was the one who got you from the huge spider that wanted to eat you?" He asked, his voice animatedly changing with the gesture in his hands that wriggled.
"She did?" Haru asked.
"I did?" Kagura asked herself. She did help the men in killing the other youkai, but was she the one who did the rescue? 'I thought Kouga did that...'
"You DID, Miss Kagura... Have you forgotten?" He looked at her meaningfully.
"I did?" An inquiring eyebrow shot up. His eyes told her to follow her lead. "Ah, yes... The big spider was very hungry when he caught you..."
"Thank you, Miss Kagura!" Haru smiled up at her.
"Sure, no problem, boy." She smiled back and ruffled the boy's hair, imitating what Kouga did earlier. Somehow, she felt good when the boy thanked her. And worse, she felt really appreciated when Kouga referred to her as a friend... HIS friend... She was never allowed to feel such...
Haru ran out of the cave and into the light, leaving the two inside. The moment the cub left, Kagura narrowed her eyes. "WHAT was THAT?" She asked.
"You should thank me, Kagura. Almost everyone in town believes that young cub. You were lucky." He grinned cockily. "I INTEND to keep my end of the bargain." He rested his head on the rock again. "Bet you liked being called my wife, huh?"
Kagura turned red with fury. "You... You insufferable jerk!"
"Thank you." He smiled at her.
"Ooh... I hate you! I wish you'd vanish into thin air!"
"Be careful what you wish for, Kagura."
"You bet I will!"
"Yeah, whatever. Now give me a break, I'm really sleepy." Kouga yawned a huge bear-yawn. "And I trust you to not do anything fishy, Kagura. I kept my part of the bargain, and I still intend to do so." He repeated before he closed his eyes. For some unknown reason, he was confident that Kagura wouldn't do anything. He knew her secret, and he already did his part. All they needed to do was to keep up with the symbiotic relationship and wait for everything to turn back into normal, and they'd be able to live their lives again.
What he didn't see was the sincere smile that crept on Kagura's usually cold and proud features as she walked to the other side of the cave, where she was given a makeshift bed. This was the first time she felt that she was really treated AND given respect without even terrorizing, scaring or threatening anyone. And that was even after she killed almost half of his pack!
Maybe it was only because they had a deal. A deal that gave them both the advantage without even exerting too much effort. Well, maybe, out of the way and against her master's wishes, but still, she knew that what she was doing right now is what will lead her to her freedom in the future.
She laid down slowly, being careful not to crease her precious kimono and slightly elevating her head so as to not disarrange her hair. Sleep was calling her; and she had no intention of sneaking out of the bargain.
*******
In the end, Inuyasha knocked down Toya with his signature Kaze no Kizu, finishing the fight. Miroku was badly injured and his shakujou wasn't the best weapon to damage a person, more so open the flesh and get the shards. But on the other hand, Toya could barely move a muscle and could no longer even say a comprehesible word.
His body transformed into ashes as the shards dropped down from the air, the only three particles left of a once living youkai... or hanyou...
Kagome picked up the shards and began purifying them before placing them on her vial. Inuyasha, on the other hand, shook the dark red stain on his Tetsusaiga and sheathed it.
"Thank you, Inuyasha." A bruised and battered Miroku sitting on a rock beside Sango's unconscious form finally said.
"Keh. Could've done that sooner... Though you did a great job on that imposter." Inuyasha walked towards a kneeling Kagome. "Are you done yet?"
"Just a sec... There." She stood up and faced Inuyasha. "Were you hurt?"
"Gah! I'm not that weak!" He retorted. But deep inside he knew that this was her way of showing concern.
"Inuyasha..." Kagome reprimanded, averting her eyes towards the other members of their group. "Miroku-sama, gomen ne, can you still stand?"
"Ah, thank you for your concern, but I'd rather that you look for Sango- sama's welfare than mine. A little rest will do..." He inhaled sharply at a stinging sensation on his side got his attention.
"You're hurt, I can tell. Sango-chan's wounds have already been dressed. It's your turn now..." Kagome grabbed her pack and ordered Miroku to remove his outer robes.
"Oi, Kagome. Let's do that in Kaede-baabaa's hut." Inuyasha stood on her side.
"Ah, Inuyasha. Sango-sama is not that fit for travel yet, so I suggest we take advantage of this cave to serve as our camp for a few days." Miroku replied calmly, ignoring the painful medicine Kagome sprinkled on his shoulder.
"A few days?" Inuyasha complained.
"A FEW DAYS, Inuyasha. We can't risk Sango-chan's and Miroku-sama's health by letting them be transported around." Kagome stopped attending at Miroku's wounds to look up at Inuyasha. "Besides, we got three shards. Three shards, Inuyasha. And we've so far accumulated more than half of the Shikon no Tama." She smiled, confident that she'll convince the hanyou. "Please...?" She added, giving him a smile that she knew he can't resist.
Indignant, Inuyasha crossed his arms and looked away. "Feh." He retorted as he walked towards the other end of the cave.
Kagome's smile broadened at Inuyasha's response. That was his usual attitude when he gives in. She turned back to Miroku who fell asleep sitting and began dressing his wounds.
Shippou sat beside Kagome and began assisting her. After a long silence, the kitsune spoke. "Funny, it was always Sango-chan who dressed his wounds after battle, or the other way around..."
"Well..." Kagome began. "... It may be like that, but that's a different situation, ne?" She placed a gauze on the puncture on Miroku's shoulder before putting on some bandage. "And this time, Miroku-sama saved her when she no longer knew what she was doing..."
"Yeah..." Shippou agreed as he handed her the cloth she used for dabbing the medicine. "He risked his life for her..."
"You know Shippou, you're more than the kid that I know." Kagome smiled. "Is that the effect of hanging out with us too much?"
*******
Naraku saw his ningyo split into half. This wasn't going on as he planned! 'But that was good riddance anyway...' He thought smugly as he crushed the wooden doll.
*******
Kagura awoke to the smell of burning meat and chatter. She blinked her eyes and began to stand up as the cold surface her feet hit suddenly registered that she wasn't in her room in Naraku's castle.
"So the sleeping beauty has awakened, huh? O-sou-yo, Kagura-SAMA." Kouga smirked as he looked down on her.
Kagura stretched her arms and covered her mouth to suppress a yawn. "Don't start, ookami-boy." She sat up and looked for her fan that was missing. She remembered placing it beside her before sleeping... "Where did you hide my fan, huh?"
"Your fan? Ah, your fan. Got someone to fix it... Don't worry, the other piece was still with me." He smiled cockily as he walked towards the other side of the cave. "Dinner's about to be ready so get up, lazy ass."
"Dinner?" Kagura asked. How long had she been sleeping then? She was surprised that she was asleep for more than three hours, and was more surprised that she wasn't even torn into pieces by the wolves!
"The pack will be gathering later at dinner so if I were you, I'd fix my hair..." Kouga walked towards her, handing her another set of kimono. "But you should go wash yourself first, you stink like hell. There's a spring on the inner part of this cave, just follow those torches... You're reeking of blood, I can smell you even outside!" He grinned as he dropped the clothes in front of her and turned to walk out of the cave.
Kagura was more than perplexed. First she fell asleep on dangerous territories, wakes up whole and unharmed, and now given a bath and some dinner! "Kouga, wait..." She spoke, effectively stopping him from going out of the cave. "... Why are you doing this...?"
Kouga merely looked up at the ceiling of the cave. "We had a deal, remember? Your help in protecting my territories in exchange for not giving up the shards and having a place to stay while waiting..." He took another step before continuing. "... And I had to clear the rumors of you being held as prisoner. I treat everyone in my land equally. And while you're here, it applies to you too."
Kagura didn't really know what to say. Naraku has never -- will NEVER -- treat her like this, like a... a... human or some living thing. She was merely a toy, a puppet that dare not defy him for fear of being killed...
... But that was before...
She felt an aching sensation in her heart. 'Naraku...?' She thought as she recognized pain. But no... It was different. Whenever it was Naraku hurting her, there was always a burning sensation, a lingering pain... But this... this... feeling... Was she learning something new?
In an instant, different events flashed in her mind. Crying women and children, screaming for help... Men kneeling in front of her, begging for their lives... Kohaku holding his head in his hands and squeezing his eyes shut, struggling to ease the pain while she whipped him with her winds... Kouga's pack crying out in agony as her Fuujin no Mai hit them...
With every memory coming back to her, her heart ached.
'I'm sorry...' She heard Kohaku once say to Sango when he gained control over his mind and saw what he did...
'I'm sorry...' She saw the little girl with Sesshomaru, Rin, say as she bowed her head and showed that she knew that Sesshomaru didn't like what she did...
I'm sorry... Those words... They were said whenever a person realizes that he did something wrong...
Regret... Guilt... Apology... The emotions registered in her heart, and she knew she was feeling it right now.
"Kouga... I'm sorry..." Kagura found herself saying the words she never used. "... For killing your pack, and using them against you..." She felt so ashamed all of a sudden. Was she really that bad? That heartless? "I... I didn't mean it... It was only an order... Naraku, he..." She looked down and felt something wet coming out from her eyes...
Tears...?
But tears are only for those who are weak... She wasn't weak...
"Kagura." She looked up and saw Kouga looking at her. Will he laugh now that he saw an evidence that she was weak?
'But I'm not weak!' An inner voice cried out. She quickly wiped the tears on her cheeks. "I-I'll go wash up now..."
"Kagura..." Kouga repeated, his tone telling her that he was to say something more. "... I know... I know you didn't want to..."
She saw understanding in his blue orbs, something that Naraku and Kanna never had in theirs. "... But still..."
"You should wash up now. Dinner's just about ready." He turned and headed outside the cave.
But Kagura was still confused. "Why are you doing all of this to me despite my arrogance?" She asked, desperately looking for an answer.
Kouga stopped just beyond the cave entrance. "I told you... I'm a prince, not a barbarian..." He walked towards the group of men outside.
Kagura smiled happily, wiping the tracks left by her tears as she went to wash herself. She had never ever felt so happy and so carefree before...
... All because of those words she had heard for the longest time but never really understood.
She sighed in relief and smiled again. "Thank you, Kouga..."
....tsuzuku...
Author's Rant:
There. Done and posted. I purposely ended the battle between Miroku and Toya because I don't really know how to write such fighting scenes. The same is true with the youkai battle that Kouga faced. You may have noticed that this and the previous chapters were mostly Kouga and Kagura, but I can't help it. This fic was writing itself. But don't worry, Miroku and Sango still have some... Lessons... to have. You know what I mean. ^_^
Oh, and I have a question: What do you call those wooden things that one writes on whenever he wants to have his wish come true? The one that people hang on a wall in a part of a shrine or temple... I really need to know it as soon as possible. If you have watched the Chinese show My MVP Valentine, Xiao Xi (Angela Zhang of Dolphin Bay) was featured offering a prayer and her wish twice in a shrine. The second time she did wish for something, the other members of Cheis Wei (sp?), coincidentally prayed too for the championship title in the High School Tournament. If you're wondering, this show was inspired by an all-time favorite anime "Slam Dunk" (there are practically evidences on the show! The poster on their club room/locker, the theme itself, the tournament that was referred to as the InterHigh in Slam Dunk, the rivalry between Tuan Cheung Feung (An All-Star Chinese Team member that I forgot the name -_-) and Tai Zi (Toni of 5566) as the ace of the team mirrored as such by Rukawa Kaede and Hanamichi Sakuragi's and fight for the heart of Xiao Xi who is Akagi Haruko (it's kind of one-sided in Slam Dunk though, because Rukawa doesn't really know that Haruko exists), the rivalry of Tuan Cheung Feung and Iceman of the other team patterned to Rukawa Kaede and Sendoh Akira's rivalry...)
Oh, and did you know that two songs from the Inuyasha: Sengoku o Togi Zoushi themes were used in this show? ("Dearest" by Hamasaki Ayumi and "Every Heart" by BoA) I was beginning to think that the show stole the Inuyasha soundtrack because they also had Do As Infinity's song... But I figured the show was aired in 2002, which I think used the songs first before Inuyasha did... But oh well, not really my business... (Most Chinese series use Japanese songs in their Soundtracks)
Geh. I know I said too much again but I can't really help it. So I'm going to end this by saying sorry for all the errors I committed. Please leave a review! And please lend a hand on my predicament!
Ah, and yes! Before I forget, please read my other fic, "Anata No Tame Ni," a surefire SangoxMiroku fiction. If you liked this fic then I'm sure you'll like that one all the more.
Review... Please?!
Ja, mata ne!
~Shohoku no Miko~©