Kaya's Story (An InuYasha Fanfic)

Chapter 7: Enter, Hiroshi- The Fox Demon Traveler

After Sesshomaru's aura and scent disappeared, I got up using my bow for support, picking up the arrow I had dropped when I fell. I growled in pain and anger. I had hit his nerve, just like he had hit mine. Calling me a weak half-breed. Not that I'm not weak, but the half-breed part was rude. I started walking out of the clearing, which was harder than it sounds. My adrenaline was dying down and I was starting to feel the gashes and blood. After several minutes of walking, I collapsed against a tree looking up at the sky. Before I knew it, I was consumed by the darkness of sleep.

I suddenly felt a warmth wash over me, I slowly opened my eyes to see a small fire burning. Blinking a few times, I sat up and groaned in pain. "So, you're awake." A soft male voice said. I jerked toward the source of the voice, yelping this time. The man rolled his eyes before turning towards me. "You know, you shouldn't be moving. With those wounds you're lucky to be alive. In fact, I'm surprised you are alive. A human girl like you alone against a demon." The man stated kindly. 'Human? What does he mean human?' I thought. Then I looked down at my hands and noticed my claws were gone. I was human, at least for right now. "I must ask. Why did you bring me here? I mean you are a demon, as well, so why save a human?" I inquired. The man's eyes darkened before he answered, "Not all demons are bad. Besides, if you can tell I'm a demon you must be a young priestess, aren't you?" I was shocked by his question, realizing we had asked essentially the same one. "I'm sorry." I mumbled. He smiled, "There is no need for your apology. I understand." I wasn't entirely sure what he meant, but my thoughts were interrupted by his voice. "My name is Hiroshi. I'm a fox demon traveler." "My name is Kaya. I'm- "I stopped noticing the early morning sun start to enter the cave. Hiroshi scooted back a little, shock filling his expression. "I should have known. With those injuries, there's no way a young human could have survived them. You're a half demon." I nodded, waiting for something to happen, but it never did. Something seemed different about Hiroshi, he seemed kind, for demon that is. Hiroshi smiled brightly, "You should come with me then, back to my village, that is." "Your village?" I asked, skeptically. "Yes. It's a village where humans, demons and their half demon children can reside safely. You'd be safe there from any threats." He replied. I wanted to, I really did; no more running and hiding from humans and demons and no more being alone. Something was telling me not yet. That I was so close to achieving what I wanted. "I'm sorry Hiroshi, but I can't. Thank you for you offer." I smiled brightly. "Why can't you?" He asked. "I'm trying to become stronger, so I won't have to hide anymore." I stated kindly. He nodded before responding, "At least let me escort you through this forest. If you are unfamiliar with it, you can get lost easily." I nodded and smiled in response. A few moments later, we packed up everything in the cave we were in and headed towards the forest.

Hiroshi and I walked through the forest in silence most of the way. I followed close behind him with my bow drawn watching my surroundings closely. When we finally reached the edge of the forest, Hiroshi broke our silence. "Are you sure you won't come with me?" I shook my head and he sighed. "Alright. Just know, you are welcome in the village anytime you wish. Be safe Kaya." I smiled and replied, "Thank you, Hiroshi. You be safe, as well." Hiroshi smiled and with he took off towards the west.