"The man I love... Jin."

Shiho had been mumbling in her sleep, and seemed distressed despite Jin's best efforts to soothe her with his music...and yet he'd clearly heard that. The man she loved? Him? It shocked him enough that he stopped playing for just a moment, looking down at her puzzled. Really? Him?

His heart began to beat faster, and he felt his cheeks warm...and yet he smiled just a little more. In all his twenty years roaming this land, he'd only ever claimed to love one person...his mother...and though many girls had flirted with him in the past, and invited him to share their bed, he always declined. It just never felt right. He knew it was something his mother had done, and that in truth he was the product of such an occasion, but he had decided, as soon as he was old enough to understand such things, that it wasn't something he would take lightly. And so he'd never fallen in love before...never felt the romantic love that others claimed.

He felt...something...for Shiho. He had ever since he'd first laid eyes on her. It had just been interest, hadn't it? Curiosity? No, more than that, it had been...fondness. Was that what love felt like? How would he even begin to know? And then, a small voice said in the back of his mind, what if she was referring to some other Jin? It wasn't a very unusual name, after all. Yes, that thought made sense. They'd only just met, she couldn't mean to say she loved him...

He began to play once more, but was quite surprised when she say up suddenly. Gojou was overjoyed, barking and wagging his tail excitedly. Jin lowered the flute, and had just opened his mouth to ask how she was feeling when she seemed to panic. She backed up, bumping into him, and began to fall once more...grabbing onto him and pulling him down on top of her.

In pure instinct, he dropped his flute and braced himself with his hands on either side of her, holding his weight up off of her. It hardly made sense to his mind, which was still musing what she'd said before waking. How had they gotten like this?

Deep purple stared down into emerald, and he felt himself blush as he noticed she was blushing faintly. She really was beautiful, and her shyness made her even more so. He felt his arms lower his weight slightly as he leaned toward her. He wanted to kiss her...just once.

No. He stopped himself before he'd leaned very far, and instead shifted all of his weight to one arm, moving the hand of the other to gently reach up and caress her cheek. He wasn't sure why he did it, but he did. Just the barest brush of fingertips on soft skin, and he hoped his difficult life had not left his hands so rough that it was unpleasant for her. "Shiho..." He breathed.

He suddenly seemed to realize the situation they were in. If she'd just had a nightmare, he surely wasn't helping things by appearing to loom over her in such a way. "Sorry..." He at last looked away from her as he rolled from his position above her, settling in a seated position next to her.

"How are you feeling?" He asked softly, his eyes still showing the concern he'd felt upon finding her crying. He pulled himself into a crouch and held a hand out to her to help her sit up if she wished. "You had me and Gojou worried. When you passed out...well, I'm just glad you were just sleeping." He gave her his usual cheerful, easygoing smile. Still, he couldn't forget how she'd seemed distressed when sleeping. "You know...whatever you dreamed about...it was just a dream." Without thinking, he reached and took hold of her hand. "So don't let it keep your from smiling now that it's over, okay?"

Never in her life had Shiho been as clumsy as she had at that very moment and she honesty could not recall anything more embarrassing than pushing someone alongside her into an awkward situation such as this. She expected Jin to just get up indignantly and walk away. After all, he was in his right for who would ever behave as foolishly as her? She did not like the idea of him suddenly walking off but she would not stop him she had learned long ago to respect others even if now she was a slave to bring people harm. She felt a bit of sorrow, but she swallowed to ignore it as her eyes stared t his purple abysses. She felt something within her stir and realising Jin was also looking through the windows of her soul she blushed even more, and he leaned closer and did not stop and she felt her heartbeat stop all of a sudden. Shiho’s mind thought of all the possible things that could happen if he moved even closer, and she could almost feel his breath, was he actually leaned down to kiss her?

She was even more shocked by the fact that she did not seem upset as such an act, quite the contrary she wanted it too. She should be more protective of herself and mark the boundaries between them but she felt she could not. She felt confused at this strange sensation and forced a hand closed into a fist with him leaning down. But, her eyes semi-closed in anticipation. And there was a light spark of disappointment when he shifted his weight and did not move any closer to her. She realised that she had been holding her breath then and she blushed even more.

She only hoped he had not seen any of this or else she would pray for the greater deities that the earth could swallow her whole and rid the world of her nonsense. But as hard as she tried she could not bring herself to look down or anywhere else but his eyes, for that matter. And she almost shivered when she felt his hand move toward her face. This was not out of fear or dislike, but rather, this strange sensation she began to feel ever since she fell with him once she woke up. Though, she was still glad he was alive and nothing had happened to him.

“Shiho…”

It was then that she realised her heartbeat was going mental and she did not know why. She hoped Jin could not hear this or feel it. She was so abashed by this situation it seemed to be going from bad to worse. She slowly released her breath but only to suddenly feel his hand caress her cheek, and for a moment her eyes closed enjoying the touch. What was happening? Why did she shover in pleasure when he whispered her name? Why did it make her smile and blush even more? And why was she showing him that she actually enjoyed his touch? How could she be so transparent? Did he think her pathetic for all of this? The moment her eyes opened she almost looked hurt to see him quickly move away and apologise.

She did not move from her position however as she was trying to understand what had happened and why she felt like she could cry…again. She felt some tears in her eyes but she shook her head and she sat back quickly to dry them out, why was she behaving this way? She just wanted to run away and never stop…never…

"How are you feeling? You had me and Gojou worried. When you passed out...well, I'm just glad you were just sleeping… You know...whatever you dreamed about...it was just a dream… So don't let it keep your from smiling now that it's over, okay?”

She flustered even more, if that was possible, with his words, but then her eyes quickly looked into his own, “But…how could you worry so much for someone you just met?” ’Someone who could bring you so much harm if you turned your back on her.’ She thought bitterly and looked away, “I… thank you for helping me again…” She looked at her hands and felt tears in het eyes once more but she fought against them, “My dream… it had felt so real… I cannot ignore it Jin-kun… I… you…” she sighed and shook her head, “You are in danger with me here, I should go.” She got up without realising their hands were still entwined and turned to leave. Gojou barked and stood up immediately a sir to oppose her leaving their group now, in his viewpoint they were a small pack of dogs, a family…

Jin thought, for a brief moment as he looked into her eyes that she might actually want him to kiss her. Was that wishful thinking? Surely a goddess would want nothing of the sort from a homeless, wandering mortal, even if that mortal was a Seishi. And yet...she had seemed to enjoy when he'd touched her cheek. Just a simple touch, and yet the smile that graced her lips made his heart soar. How could he possibly love her after only a few short hours? It didn't make sense, not in the least. And yet, so little in life really did. His mother had once told him, long, long ago when he was far to young to understand her words, that one day he'd meet a special girl, and he would just know she was special, and that she would change everything.

Shiho was special. He just knew it. And though he wasn't sure how or why, he knew things would never be the same for him now.

“But…how could you worry so much for someone you just met?”

He saw her blush, and by Seriyuu, she was adorable! He knew now the only thing he liked better than her blush was that happy little smile she'd shown earlier. Still, he could say none of this. She was sho shy, it would frighten her away. "Well, you know, Gojou's adopted you, and you may not can tell, but he's a worrywort." He tried to give her a playful smile. "Besides, I didn't go to all that trouble to fish you our of the river just to let you die on me or something now. Of course I worried."

“I… thank you for helping me again… My dream… it had felt so real… I cannot ignore it Jin-kun… I… you… You are in danger with me here, I should go.”

He had helped her up, and was quite glad she didn't instantly pull her hand away from his. This small moment of happiness grew when she addressed him much less formally, though he supposed he'd started that, since he hadn't used any honorific a moment ago. This happy feeling melted away in an instant, however, when the last of her words reached him, and she turned to leave. He stood to his full height, but didn't release her hand, actually tightening his hold slightly to make her stay. "Shiho-chan..." He gave a gentle tug to pull her around to face him, and took his free hand, tilting her chin up so their eyes met. "I'm not afraid of you. I can...tell a lot about people...their true natures." He released her chin to tap his chest above his heart. "Whatever your dream was...and whatever danger you think you may pose for me...I know deep inside, you are a good and true person." He smiled gently down at her. "You wouldn't have been able to sing so beautifully if you were anything else."

He released her hand, but did not move back. If she still wanted to leave, he would not stop her...though he might follow her in the guise of an animal to make sure no harm came to her. "Whatever it is that's frightened you so...I will not let it frighten me...not now that I've finally found something worth protecting." It was his destiny to protect the Seriyuu no Miko, and he would to the best of his ability, but he didn't see why he could not also battle whatever darkness had stolen Shiho's beautiful smile.

He spoke again, just barely above a whisper. "Please stay, Shiho-chan...for me..." He couldn't help but reach up, once more, and place his hand on her cheek. If she insisted on leaving, he wanted that one last memory. Part of him felt a fool for falling for this girl so hard and so fast, but he just couldn't seem to help himself..like the strong wind she controlled, he'd been blown away and could do nothing but try to find something to hold on to.

Gojou moved closer, and leaned his head against Shiho, giving a soft whine as if asking her to stay for him too. He didn't understand why she wanted to go. Didn't she realize it was always best for the pack to stay together?

Shiho was a bit taken aback by the way Jin’s deep eyes seemed to glow when he looked at her and that smile, he was so beautiful when he smiled. All in all, most people would take him for a mere wandering musician but in her eyes he was so much more. He was truly a Seishi, she could see the warrior within him and was sure that he could wield the weapon he carried but his greatest power lied in shape-shifting. His long dark purple hair rustled with the wind and made his smile completely irresistible. She wondered if many ladies felt this way about him upon meeting him. Surely he met many lovely ladies in the past, she knew his words usually charmed easily. But he was still on his own, that she found hard to believe. No one had captured his heart as of yet? Oh but she and met such wonderful people in the past, unless this man was rather demanding. She had some friends back in her town that had lists of qualities that her beloved must possess in order for them to accept them. Some could go beyond reason and the thoughts of that made her smile slightly. She wondered if Jin had his own list of requirements and at first she giggled and covered her mouth looking away, although curious she would not pry.

In any case, who would ever lay eyes on someone like her? She only carried destruction wherever she went. She could not imagine someone like him would ever lower his expectations so much as to consider her pretty or worth his time really. Why was she thinking all this all of a sudden? She stopped herself from looking into his eyes and instead bussed herself with looking at Gojou wondering if the dog could read her thoughts and what he thought of them. Jin said that animals were god judges of character and though perhaps that was correct she doubted her new furry friend could guess the darkness that lied within her, probably not of her own doing but…it was still there, inserted by the Fiend who were the cruelest of all beings in this world. She never understood the reasons behind everything they did.

“Well, you know, Gojou's adopted you, and you may not can tell, but he's a worrywort… Besides, I didn't go to all that trouble to fish you our of the river just to let you die on me or something now. Of course I worried.”

Shiho felt her cheeks burn again but did not look into his eyes, instead she looked down at the black labrador as he seemed to nod with everything Jin said and she knelt for a moment to embrace Gojou and caress his head before she stood up once more, “I am sorry to have worried you so much, and for putting your life on the line back there. Is there anything I can do to repay you both? If it is in my power I will do my best to comply.” She wanted to show her gratitude one way or another but she dubbed Jin would accept this. He seemed rather humble himself, but she felt the need to ensure he knew she took this into consideration and that she was aware she would have perished had he not helped her. But it pained her to know that if she were to do the same for him, she would pay dearly. Her hand unconsciously move to her necklace and she looked away.

“Shiho-chan... I'm not afraid of you. I can...tell a lot about people...their true natures… Whatever your dream was...and whatever danger you think you may pose for me...I know deep inside, you are a good and true person…You wouldn't have been able to sing so beautifully if you were anything else.”

His hand’s grip others tightened and she gasped when he turned her around and he lifted her face so their eyes met. Her eyes sparkled with every word he uttered and she felt her eyes grow teary and tried to blink the tears away. Why did Jin have to be so wonderful? He was truly making it hard for her to leave, did he not realise that she did not do this because she wanted to? She had to keep him safe, the Fiend were surely watching this and would use it against them if she continued to keep Shiho near. But he did not know of the darkness that haunted her, if only he knew! She looked away for a moment although his height did seem to show bit of the person he could come to be if in full battle. But, she was not afraid, oh she knew he could be a terror in battle but, something inside her made her eyes look at Jin through another perspective. And then he complimented her singing again and she felt her cheeks redden, did he say that to get this response form her or was he actually being truthful?

She knew of how men would lure women just to take advantage of them, and though she wanted to convince herself that Jin was this kind of person and just walk away and allow him to get on with his cheerful life. He did not need the sorrow and pain that would come form associating with Shiho. She had to accept the fact that she was no longer the person she once was and little by little this darkness that surfaced to bring others harm. She sighed and shook her head and lowered it allowing her violet fringe to cover her eyes, “Maybe I am not the threat but the darkness I bring with me. You have never seen what my powers could do, all the destruction they could cause, and you still tell me you are not afraid? How can I believe you Jin-kun? How can we form a bond to last upon meeting?” She shook her head again and took a few steps away from him, “What are you ding to me? Why are you so wonderful?”

“Whatever it is that's frightened you so...I will not let it frighten me...not now that I've finally found something worth protecting.”

She felt some tears falling from her eyes, “Me?” she looked down shyly, “But… you are a Seishi, you should be with your miko and protecting her as the warriors you were born to be. Why would you wish to protect me? Why would you fight my darkness when I could be keeping you from finding the Priestess?” She was not sure why but, due to everything she had been experiencing in the last couple of days she felt her bashfulness diminish and she moved to stand inches from him and then placed a hand on his cheek. A few tears slid down her face as she looked into his deep purple eyes, she wanted to understand his reasons for insisting she stayed with him, and her own reasons to wish to stay. She whispered, “Jin-kun”.

"Please stay, Shiho-chan...for me…”

Her eyes opened widely at his whisper and she felt light shivers down her spine. his words registered in her heart and she closed her eyes when he placed a hand on her cheek feeling her legs go weak and an ounce of excitement made her heart ache. Without realising what she was doing she whispered his name once more before she stood on her tip toes and realised she would need to do far more than that to reach this extremely tall and handsome man. With the hand that held his cheek she pulled him down and ran her arms around his neck while she leaned up. At first she seemed determined to kiss his lips, but the moment she woke up from her moment of ecstasy she moved her lips to touch his cheek instead. She did not want to think what he would have done had she kissed him, he probably would simply walk away without another word.

She realised that he was a lone traveller so she probably just ruined his life by forcing him to keep her with him, but, did he not tell her he wished she would stay? And Gojou seemed to remark that. She blushed lightly when she realised her mouth was but inches from his own, she began to pull away hoping she had not offended him.

But then, all of a sudden, she turned behind her feeling something in the wind, an arrow, it was being shot straight to Jin! “Jin-kun!” When she saw the arrow something within her stirred and she knew she could not let Jin be hurt and images form her nightmare returned. Without thinking it twice she pushed him as hard as she could so that he would be away from harm and lifting her hand with a gasp she deviated it. However, the necklace reacted to that and the arrow landed on her right shoulder.

She fell down with the impact and yelped in pain as she landed on her backside. She placed a hand on the wound and saw blood oozing through. Gojou whined and made his way to Shiho who slowly sat back with one eye closed in pain and she winced slightly but looking around she was more worried about Jin. A big group of men were approaching them on all fronts and they smirked when they looked at Jin, Shiho and Gojou.

“Look here boys, these seemed to have escaped our little raid at the village…” The men laughed, one of them was sharpening his knives with a rock, and his eyes looked full of lust as he eyes Shiho. Instinctively she pulled down her mini skirt and tried to move away but the pain in her shoulder stopped her when she tried to stand up and she winced. Gojou barked at them and stood between her and the men. The one who had been sharpening his knives tossed one at Gojou who jumped back to avoid it as it landed not too far from Shiho.

The man turned to the leader and said, “I want that one… I deserve some fun too, these had all the fun last time…” The leader eyed him wearily, the lady was rather pretty and he and to admit that even he felt compelled to take her for himself, but perhaps they could sell her as a slave for an outstanding price. He eyed Jin and grinned, they could even sell him, he was rather good-looking, maybe one of those small kingdoms rules by women would appreciate a salve like him. They would get rich…

So he nodded at the other man, “just don’t play too much… she could earn us a fortune.” Shiho felt scared and her eyes opened widely when the men began to approach her. The man smirked and said, “Lad, if you come with us we might treat that wound of hers… otherwise…” He nodded and one man kicked Gojou and soon several men were at him with ropes, and another man quickly forced her to her feet holding her tightly and placing a knife on her throat. She felt tears blur her vision but she could not allow herself to look so weak. “Jin-kun!” Her hands moved to the dark arm that held her tight to try and break free but he pressed the knife to her neck and a slight cut emerged. The men pointed their blades at Jin and slowly began to approach him, ready to disarm him and take them both.

“I am sorry to have worried you so much, and for putting your life on the line back there. Is there anything I can do to repay you both? If it is in my power I will do my best to comply.”

I'll tell you the truth, Shiho-chan." He said, his tone light. 'There's no need to thank me. I don't do anything I don't want to do. Ever. Neither does Gojou there." He was not dismissing her gratitude, as he hoped she could tell, but simply letting her know he neither minded nor regretted anything that had happened since meeting her. He noticed her hand move to the necklace she wore, and he wondered about it. It just didn't look like it would be her style. It looked more...gaudy...than something she should wear. Still, it was her choice, he supposed, and not his place to ask.

“Maybe I am not the threat but the darkness I bring with me. You have never seen what my powers could do, all the destruction they could cause, and you still tell me you are not afraid? How can I believe you Jin-kun? How can we form a bond to last upon meeting? What are you ding to me? Why are you so wonderful?”

Jin saw the effect his words seemed to have on her, and for a moment he wondered if he should have let her go...not because he didn't wish to be with her, but because it seemed that whatever secrets she held had the power to cause her great inner pain. And yet...she thought he was wonderful? He shook his head slightly. "I can't say anything to make you believe me...but it's true. Whatever is going on, I will never be afraid of you. I believe goodness will always overcome darkness, so long as people never lose hope." He chose not to address her last question, not ready to tell her he thought she was the wonderful one. Instead he allowed her to take a few steps back.

“Me? But… you are a Seishi, you should be with your miko and protecting her as the warriors you were born to be. Why would you wish to protect me? Why would you fight my darkness when I could be keeping you from finding the Priestess? ...Jin-kun."

"It's simple, Shiho-chan." Jin said, reaching up a hand to gently wipe the tears from her cheek. "I don't see why I can't do both." He shrugged. "I haven't found the Miko yet, but when I do, I will not be her sole protector. I...have the feeling you have no one but yourself." He shook his head. "I promise you now I will do all I can for you, Shiho-chan." And once the words were spoken, his fate was sealed. He never broke a promise, and he would not start now. If his Miko, or the other Seishi did not like that he had sworn to protect and care for this little goddess, then he'd simply part company with them. And that was assuming he ever found them in the first place...not that he was looking all that hard for them. He'd always felt that things happened when they were meant to, and he figured the same would be true for meeting the Miko and the other Seishi.

Suddenly, she was near, and leaning up toward him. Was she going to kiss him? He hoped so. He wished to see if her lips were as soft as they looked. He felt his heart pounding, sure it was loud enough the wind goddess could hear it as well. "Shiho-chan..." He whispered. And he felt just a bit of disappointment as she turned and kissed his cheek instead. He was tempted to pull her close and kiss her, regardless of the consequences. She was so close...

and then, suddenly, she'd spun around and shoved him to the ground using a bit of her abilities. He saw an arrow and realized it was meant for him, but thanks to her quick actions, Shiho took it in the shoulder instead. Jin gave a soft, minimalistic growl as he saw the group of men emerge from the surrounding woods. He jumped to his feet, but had little time to act before the men were upon them. One had Shiho, and had kicked Gojou. They stated plans to 'have fun' the goddess, and Jin's eyes burned with an angry internal fire. So these were the men that had destroyed that lovely little village...had probably killed the little girl who had owned the doll Shiho had found. He wanted to lunge at them, fight them off and protect Shiho, but if he made an outward more, at least right now, they'd hurt her before he could get to her. Instead he called upon his Seishi ability, calling out to the surrounding wildlife for help once more. He had a feeling these men were too simple to sense his abilities, which was good.

Unlike when he'd called out for help from the river, this time there was a response. Many snakes, poisonous and not, slithered out of the surrounding forest and began to attack the men on the edges. This either frightened away or fatally wounded many of the men, and really only left a small handful to deal with.

"What the blazes?!" The man holding Shiho shouted in alarm, dropping his knife though he kept hold of his 'prize'.

"I think you'll find the animals don't like scum like you dirtying up their lovely woodlands." Jin said conversationally. His eyes shifted from one man to the next. "And I think you'll find I don't like scum like you laying your filthy hands on the young lady there.."

He spared Shiho a glance. "Count to three and do whatever you must to get away from here. Follow Gojou, he knows where to take you." Jin knew of a cave nearby where she would be safe. He'd join them there just as soon as these men were dealt with. It wasn't far, so hopefully she could make it there, even with her injuries.

He sensed more help on it's way, and so with one last smug grin at the men, he shifted into the form of a wolf, just as a small pack of wild wolves emerged from behind him. He was sure Shiho could tell which one he was, but he was just as sure that the men could not. He had to focus on the battle now, and trust that Shiho would do as he asked.

He and the other wolves dove into the fray, biting at anything they came into contact with. Jin was trying not to kill, as he didn't particularly like the idea of tasting these mess' blood, but he would do whatever he must to keep that promise he made Shiho. Some of the men fled, a few wolves chasing after them, while the most stubborn-or foolish-among them remained. One nearly stabbed Jin with the knife he held, but Jin dodged, receiving a shallow cut on what would be the back of his left hand once he returned to human form. He heard a whine, and looked to see that the leader had managed to kill one of the wolves. 'Foolish move...' Jin thought as every wolf decided at once that none of them would be allowed to live as payment for the life they took. He saw a flash, and realized his foe was aiming the knife at his head. Jin managed to dodge once more, and bit down as hard as he could on the man's wrist, tasting blood and hearing the crunching of bones.

He withdrew, looking around for Shiho and Gojou. He couldn't see them, and hoped that they had made it to the cave safely. The fierce battle was over quickly, and all those who hadn't the sense to flee lay scattered dead around the clearing, the leader and the one who'd assaulted Shiho among them. Jin shifted back into his human form with a weary sigh as he looked around him.

He thanked the wolves that had come to his aid, and offered them the fish he'd cooked at payment, but they refused. He allowed them to drag off the dead wolf, knowing they had their own ways of dealing with these things. He then turned and looked at the men once more. They would not get burial rights, they didn't deserve them, but he would not allow them to contaminate this beautiful clearing as they had ruined that lovely village.

With a weary sigh, he began to drag the dead men, one at a time toward the village. He knew for expirence there was a long dry well at the edge of the town, cobbled in with stone, it was used to collect rainwater, and nothing more. It would do for these scum. It took some time, and all the work he was doing caused the shallow cut on the back of his hand to bleed, but he ignored it. It was not life threatening. Before tossing them in, he searched each man for anything of value. They didn't deserve the same respect he'd been willing to afford the villagers, though he would not spend their ill-gotten coin on himself, deciding instead to make sure nice things were done with the money for others. It was only right. At last, he dumped the last of the men into the stone well, and found a round wooden board used to cover the well. He pushed it into place, pushing it down as tightly as he could in the hopes that no one would ever come across them there. This village was so far off the beaten path, it was unlikely anyone ever would,

His work done, he returned to the campsite and extinguished the fire, gathering up their supplies and the fish, which had somehow survived the scuffle. The sun was nearly set by now, but he knew the path to the cave by heart and so he set out with his things, mentally calling out for Gojou, and calling out loud for Shiho. "Shiho-chan?" He was near the cave now. "Are you alright?"

“I’ll tell you the truth, Shiho-chan…There’s no need to thank me. I don't do anything I don't want to do. Ever. Neither does Gojou there.”

She smiled at his words, was he trying to make her feel better? He was truly someone to admire, he had no idea how much he comforted her. She had come from being completely alone to having two new friends who cared so much for her, almost as if they were a family of some sort and that made her think she and not used that word in so long. She looked at Gojou and then back at Jin, it did not matter what happened in the future she knew she would never forget them, especially Jin. She giggled and leaned down to caress Gojou’s neck and behind the ears with both of her hands. She felt so at east, so free in their company, if only she could stay with them forever and gel them earn mont and food traveling as they pleased. That would truly make her a happy person. But alas, fate was always cruel and she was never meant to enjoy such a life now. She was grateful that she was chosen as a goddess and she did love her powers and could see the use in them, but she disliked the fact that she had been enslaved just like that. She wondered if Jin would think less of her for this…if he knew her current situation.

“I can't say anything to make you believe me...but it's true. Whatever is going on, I will never be afraid of you. I believe goodness will always overcome darkness, so long as people never lose hope.”

She was impressed by his word and her heart moved out to him. If only she could bring herself to believe these his words. Even if she tried she knew she was way past hope, she could only obey the Fiend or be destroyed by them now and if she tried to protect anyone she would be punished. Although, as her deep emerald eyes met his purple ones, she was certain that she would protect him if he needed her to. Even if that cost her the greatest punishment imaginable. She was not entirely she but she did not she held him dear, and that was probably one of the reasons she would gladly sacrifice everything for him. It was that one thought of the one person she would come across in life that she wished to protect with all her heart. And, though she was not the most powerful being in this world, she still wanted to do something for him, something for the one person to make her smile once more amidst her darkness. She looked up at him and for a moment her hand met his and their fingers intertwined as she said with true conviction, “I believe you.” And for some reason she knew…she and a hunch, she would always believe in him.

“It’s simple, Shiho-chan… I don't see why I can't do both… I haven't found the Miko yet, but when I do, I will not be her sole protector. I...have the feeling you have no one but yourself… I promise you now I will do all I can for you, Shiho-chan.”

She felt her heart skip a beat when he looked deeply into her eyes and dried the tears from her eyes. Despite the pain she was feeling she found herself smiling at him once more and she blinked for a moment while her eyes looked up at him and she believed his words, it was true, she was alone. She had no one… but now… “Jin-kun, I am not alone, I have you and Gojou now…” She smiled and she dried her last tears and ran her arms around his waist and held him warmly while she whispered, “Thank you.” She closed her eyes for a moment and enjoyed the embrace. For some reason, being as shy as she usually was, she seemed to have gained trust with this young man and now she did not hesitate to show her emotions to him. And she hoped he would not be uncomfortable with the embrace. Gojou barked happily a couple of times before he moved around them as they embraced. This made her laugh softly and opener eyes to look down t the black labrador before she lifted her head and looked up into his deep purple eyes.

”Shiho-chan…”

Her skin shivered in pleasure when hearing him whisper her name with such intensity, she almost felt her legs too weak to keep her standing. She was glad they were just standing and not walking, otherwise she would fall to the ground in a ridiculous manner. She was sure. As she pulled away she saw a temporary hint of sorrow in his eyes, did he dislike her kissing his cheek? Or was it he had wished for a more intimate kiss? She blushed lightly and looked away, she could not believe she held such thoughts, even more so, she had wanted to kiss him. This handsome travelling troubadour would think her ridiculous and then she would never see him again. Oh how she dreaded that day!

"What the blazes?!"

"I think you'll find the animals don't like scum like you dirtying up their lovely woodlands…And I think you'll find I don't like scum like you laying your filthy hands on the young lady there…”

Shiho gasped when she saw snakes attacking some of the men yet to her eyes Jin seemed to be glowing with a beautiful blue aura and his Seishi symbol shone brighter than the moonlight. She gasped in awe and then whispered, “Jin-kun”. The man holding her tightened his grip causing her to moan in pain at the cut on her neck, and he dropped his knife in fear and his eyes met those of Jin. He was purely angry but also confused. If this man could control animals such as snakes, surely it would be dangerous to mess with him, it was a pity, he was truly looking forward to enjoying this beautiful lady. He caressed her long hair and took in her scent by leaning toward her neck, something that disgusted her and she kicked at him and did her best to move away form his disgusting touch. But the man merely laughed at her. If only they could be safe… Shiho found herself amazed and shocked at how Jin looked when truly angered, she could tell many would rather run away then face someone like him, his eyes shone with pure hatred and she blushed lightly thinking he had changed so suddenly only to protect her, he must care deeply for her in order to get so intense when her safety was endangered. She placed a hand on her heart and closed her eyes willing him the courage to win this fight. Yet her arrow wound began to hurt even more, but she ignored the pain for now, to help Jin.

“Count to three and do whatever you must to get away from here. Follow Gojou, he knows where to take you.”

Her eyes opened widely, he was planning to fight them all on his own? She was about to state she wished to stay with him when a pack of wolves arrived and he shifted into one himself. Gojou then bit the man that was still holding her and the man fell on the cold ground. She fell on her knees for a moment taking deep breaths and she stole one last glance in Jin’s direction and closed her eyes sending a prayer of safety for him before Gojou pulled at her skirts and she began to run in the direction the black labrador led her. She turned to look behind as the wolves fought on with the men and she then turned back to the road as she followed the beautiful black dog.

She ran as fast as her legs would allow her. She finally entered a cave and Gojou inspected it to ensure it was safe. She finally stopped to catch her breath once inside and she could still hear the turmoil and she fell on her knees in exhaustion and the wound was getting worse, partly because she was still bleeding and partly because she and used her prayers and powers to protect Jin and that ensured the necklace gave her a hard time. She looked at her shoulder, it was cover din blood, and she and a scratch on the neck and even her thigh injury seemed to be getting worse and she sighed and sat with Gojou waiting for Jin to return, she only hoped he would be well. She was truly worried for his safety even though she knew that he was as skilled in survival as any oner warrior.

She embraced Gojou’s neck when the dog turned to look at her worried that she seemed so worried and sad. She would never forgive herself if something happened to Jin while she was inside this cave hiding. At least she had spared him that arrow wound that would have been fatal had it hit him on the chest. Those men were truly horrible, how could they attack people just like that? And to think they wanted to do something terrible to her… She shivered lightly and then she heard someone approaching. At first she was scared that it might be one of those bandits but when she felt the presence, she knew it had to be Jin.

She sighed and closed her eyes and then heard him call out her name. Gojou immediately stood up and trotted to greet Jin and almost knocked him over while showing how happy he was that he was well. Shiho felt tears of relief forming in her eyes and the fear of what had just happened made her stand up and run to Jin’s strong and protective embrace. She cried for a moment before she said, “Jin… I was so worried… I didn’t want anything to happen to you…” She embraced him deeply and buried her head on his chest ignoring the piercing pain on her shoulder due to the arrow that was still in her body. She did not care about her wounds, she was just so happy to see Jin was safe… She could almost kiss him…

No, what was she thinking?

“Shiho-chan? Are you alright?”

She sighed happily and closed her eyes still holding on to him and with a smile she said, “I am now.” She was not sure what made her say that, but it only felt right to be honest. She was always honest…always. But then, the exhaustion form all that had been happening ever since she met Jin and the bloodless made her sake a deep breath in an attempt to keep herself standing next to Jin, but instead she leaned on him almost as if she were to pass out again, this time, due to the wounds. She did her best to hold on to him though, she was a person who always fought until the end… Gojou barked as if to remark she was in bad condition with that wound. He then whined and looked at Jin deeply in the eyes. Shiho barely managed to whisper, “I will be fine…” But she lost more and more energy with each passing second.

As Jin headed for the cave, he recalled the moments preceding those men attacking them. Shiho had embraced him, hugging him around the waist, and he had returned it, wrapping his aroms around her and gently pulling her closer. As far as he'd been concerned, time could have stopped right there, and he'd be happy forever.

But it hadn't, and Shiho had gotten hurt protecting him...after he had vowed to protect her. He had defeated their foes, but it didn't ease his guilt over knowing she had shed blood for him. He had felt her prayers and power with him as he'd fought, and that gave him more courage than anything else. Oh Seriyuu, how could he love that woman already? It defied logic...but then again, his mother had always said love was like that.

He heard Gojou's happy barking before he even entered the cave. He laughed when the dog nearly knocked him down...perhaps he was more tired than he'd thought. "Easy, Gojou, you just saw me..." Still, he grinned as he ruffled the black Labrador's ears affectionately, smiling at his new friend. He looked up when he heard Shiho move deeper in the cave. HE'd barely looked her way when she ran to him and embraced him, crying. He held her gently, lifting one hand to stroke her hair soothingly.

“Jin… I was so worried… I didn’t want anything to happen to you…”

"It's alright." He said gently as he held her. "I'm alright. We're all safe now. They...won't bother us again." Or anyone else for that matter, though he decided not to voice that. He closed his eyes as he held her, just for a moment, enjoying the feel of her body so near his. After a moment, he pulled back just enough to dry her tears, a motion that now felt comfortable to him. He felt his resolve strengthen...he wanted to do all he could to make sure she didn't cry again. He wanted her to be as happy as she made him.

“I am now.”

"Shiho..." Because she was with him? Was it foolish for him to hope that was what she'd meant? Foolish or not, he did hope she'd meant that she was fine with him. He moved his hand to rest on her back, and was suddenly reminded of the injuries she'd collected during the day. He gently pulled back from her and looked down at her. "We need to treat those wounds."

He lifted her easily into his arms and carried her to a patch of moonlight just inside the mouth of the cave. The bandage on her leg would need changing, and that wound on her neck would need treating, but his biggest concern was the wound in her shoulder. The arrow was still in it, and she was loosing a lot of blood. He'd have to tear her shirt to tend to it. "Sorry about this..." He said, knowing she was a shy person...but now wasn't the time for him to worry about her modesty. He carefully tore the shirt around the wound to open the area for him to treat. "I'm afraid this will hurt, Shiho..." He said softly, pausing just long enough to gently touch her cheek. "I wish there was some other way...Just stay with me, alright?"

Jin took a deep breath before digging in his pack for one of the rags he carried. He'd need to try and stop the blood as soon as he pulled the arrow out. He let the breath out slowly. "Here goes..." He said before focusing on the task at hand. He'd never treated a wound like this before...well, not on a human. He'd removed an arrow from a baby deer once, though the deer had died in the end, so he didn't wish to dwell on that thought too much at present. He pulled out the arrow as gently as he could, trying to lessen the amount of pain she'd feel, and quickly put the rag over the wound, applying pressure as he tossed the arrow aside and began to dig out the various salves and bandages he'd need. He tossed another rag at Gojou and silently instructed him to go soak it in a nearby stream and bring it back to him, glad his four legged friend obeyed. He kept the pressure applied as he waited for the dog to return, and occasionally looked from the mouth of the cave, watching for Gojou, to Shiho, checking to make sure she was holding up well, all things considered.

When Gojou returned, he took the rag and began to clean the shoulder wound. His hands shook slightly out of concern for the wind goddess. He did his best to work quickly but efficiently, applying first something to help lessen the pain, another gem of a salve he'd...procured, and then applying something to help it heal without incident before at last applying a fresh, clean bandage.

As he did this, Gojou had taken some more rags and dampened them for him, returning now and wagging his tail, glad he was being helpful. Jin tossed the soiled cloth aside and picked up another, moving his attention to the wound at her neck. Thankfully it wasn't that deep, but he treated it with the same care, cleaning it and applying ointment before bandaging it.

He was leaning over her as he did this, and he looked up at her face for just a moment. "Shiho..." He said softly. "You're going to be okay..." He leaned over and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead before he moved to re-bandage the wound on her thigh. He repeated the actions he'd shown her just a few short hours ago when he'd treated it the first time. She would need to let the wounds rest for some time, and she'd need to rebuild her strength.

He finished treating the last of her wounds and finally set to work tending the cut on his hand. It wasn't very bad, but with all the movement he'd done with it, it hadn't stopped bleeding yet. He picked up the last of the damp cloths and wiped his hands clean of his own blood, as well as Shiho's, before carefully applying some ointment and somewhat awkwardly wrapping the bandage. It was easier to do with two hands, but it couldn't be helped. He moved to sit by Shiho once more, and took her hand in his bandaged one as he looked in his pack once more. They'd both need clean clothes, and though he had a few sets, he didn't have anything that would fit her.

He pulled out his last two clean shirts and set one douwn next to Shiho. "It's not much, but you're welcome to wear it until we can get you a new shirt...since I ruined yours." He smiled at her apologetically. He gave her hand a gentle squeeze before releasing it and standing up. He moved a little ways off, though not far enough that she'd worry where he'd gone, and set to changing shirts, removing the soiled vest and shirt before pulling on the clean one buttoning it up.

Personally, he felt better already, though he was quite hungry now...and tired. Still, he stood there for a moment longer, his back to Shiho, giving her time to pull on the shirt he'd given her if she wanted. When he thought it'd been long enough, he turned to face her once more. "Do you want to eat something...or just rest?"

”Easy, Gojou, you just saw me…”

Yes, this could only mean Jin was safe and amidst her wordiness and delight in knowing he was safe Shiho cried some more feeling relief through her. She did not even think twice before running to embrace him, ignoring the pain in her wounds just to see with her own eyes that he was well. And she embraced him deeply and closed her eyes gently when he held her in his arms and she felt comfort when he caressed her hair and she sighed contentedly. If only they could stay like that forever, she would be happy for a lifetime and beyond. Her breathing was less alarmed and she only hoped he would not think her silly for crying so much, lately she seemed to be an emotional wreck and though she could find no reasons to explain this, she still wondered about it. What was it that made things that way? What was it about Jin that had awakened all these strange sensations within her? She did not, but for now she buried her face on his strong chest and delved into the pleasure this embrace granted her and she hoped he felt the same. Her eyes opened, she hoped he felt the same? She blushed lightly and looked down before he spoke once more.

”It’s alright… I’m alright. We're all safe now. They...won't bother us again.”

She smiled softly, did he know that in her eyes he was her hero now? No one had ever protected her the way Jin so willingly did and she remembered he had said he would never do anything he did not wish to. So, this was something he had desired to do, protect her and she had to admit he was truly good at this and she knew the miko would be safe once he found her. Her emerald eyes looked up into his deep purple ones and saw a light darkness but it soon passed, did he had to kill al those men? It was such a dark and terrifying thought she decided not to ask, not that it would please him to talk about it anyway. She granted him a gentle smile and closed her eyes gently feeling his hand remove the tears in her eyes. It had come as such a natural thing among them lately. But for some reason she no longer felt shy when he was near, she rather longed for his touch, seriously… what had he done to her? How could she suddenly change so much in a few hours?

“Shiho…We need to treat those wounds.”

She shivered lightly at the sound of his voice calling out her name and almost chastised herself for appearing so weak in this man’s company, but he did not seem to mind. She felt a bit of discomfort when his hand moved to her back but he soon remembered she was injured and she wished she had not been so that they could simply stand in each other’s arms. She reddened again at such thoughts and hid her face with her long hair the moment he picked her up and set her down. She knew it would not be an easy task but she had to trust this would not be to painful that she should give Jin a hard time. She did not want to do such a thing…

“Sorry about this...I'm afraid this will hurt, Shiho...I wish there was some other way...Just stay with me, alright?”

She was resolved to be as strong as possible. She looked into his eyes with determination and nodded, “I will be fine, so long as you are here with me…” She looked down almost losing the resolve at her words, they escaped her lips before she could even stop them. She felt her cheeks warm but did not move when he broke her shirt, she allowed him to work through her wounds and though it did hurt when he removed the arrow all she did was close her eyes sharply and wince lightly, it was a burning sensation that she did not like, but she was through with appearing weak before him. She wanted to be capable of showing strength when she had to. And h head just endured a terrible fight, she did not want him to feel more weary after that. While she watched, though, she learned. She had seen the cut in his hand and thought she should help the man she loved. She blinked, er, the man who had saved her that was…or… was her dream an apocalypse of what would come to pass within her and not so much outside her world?

She was shocked and so she decided to stare at his hands as he worked just so that she did not look too foolish, she could tell she was already looking bizarre. She finally looked up at him, and her heart began to move much faster once he leaned forth and tended to her neck. Oh gods please don’t let him hear! She prayed while her eyes sparkled with fondness at him.

“Shiho…You're going to be okay…”

She closed her eyes not knowing what to expect when he leaned down, and she felt his lips on her forehead. She looked down feeling her heart in a frenzy and she gasped, she could not deny it any longer, right? She loved him…she loved Jin. Just as that voice in her dream had said. She looked up at him and whispered, “Thank you.” She had almost forgotten the pain on her shoulder…

He watched him tend to his wound but then noticed how difficult it was to bandage a hand without the aid of another and looking into his eyes she moved a bit closer to him and her hands gently took it form there. They held the bandage and gently and firmly rolled it around his hand to protect the injury and help it mend. She tied it ensuring not to do it too harshly and then she slowly pulled his hand to her lips and kissed it a couple of times as if she willed the grace of the gods to help his wound mend. She felt a sharp pain on her shoulder and sighed, that necklace was truly making things hard for her… She then watched him as he took out clean clothes and she took the one he offered her.

“It’s not much, but you're welcome to wear it until we can get you a new shirt...since I ruined yours.”

She took the shirt and embraced it ensuring not to get it dirty with her good and she took in the scent closing her eyes for a moment. It smelled just like her beloved Jin, she smiled, “The worst is over, thank you…” She watched him as he moved away to give her some room to change in privacy and she nodded as Gojou went with him. She slowly and painfully stood up, she removed her shirts and then put on his. She giggled at how big it was on her, it almost completely covered the edges of her white mini skirt. She must look so ridiculous, surely someone like him would never love someone who looked like her… most men would not consider her a…real woman. She sighed and did her best to make the shirt bit her form, but it came to no avail, even as she used her belt she looked ridiculous and she blushed lightly, hoping he would not see her like this… he would laugh at how ridiculous she looked right?

She moved heaven and earth to look more appearing and beautiful in his eyes, but she failed miserably and desisted. She fixed her hair and placed the belt so that the shirt did not make her look like a five-year-old. She sighed and then felt him move back toward her and she blushed and played with her hair, “I…I must look so ridiculous…” did she even look pretty with her old clothes? And surely he must think her pathetic for worrying over stuff like that?

”Do you want to eat something...or just rest?”

She silently nodded but did not dare to look into his eyes, “I guess we need to eat…” she could tell he was hungry anyway.

“I will be fine, so long as you are here with me…”

She was blushing again, and Jin smiled for just a moment, despite the seriousness of the situation. He wondered if she realized just how lovely she was when she did that. And then her words actually clicked in his head. How could she say that? No one but his mother had ever seemed to want him around for any length of time, though most seemed to enjoy his company short-term. He spared a glance to her emerald eyes, and said softly but sincerely. "Then I'll be here as long as you want me."

“Thank you.”

Jin was a little surprised when she took over bandaging his hand. It felt nice to have her tend to him, even if it wasn't all that serious. He let his eyes drift closed for a moment, enjoying the sensation of her hands moving around his own. Seriyuu, give him the strength not to make a fool of himself in front of her. He thought of telling her his feelings...but they'd only just met, and surely she'd think he was crazy. His eyes snapped open in surprise when, after finishing the bandaging, Shiho lifted his hand and kissed it. He gently closed the now treated hand around one of hers, and pulled it toward his own lips, kissing her knuckles. "Thank you."

Once he had changed shirts, he turned back to her and felt a grin tug at his lips. His shirt really was far, far too big for her. Part of him was briefly reminded of a child playing dress-up, but that was a fleeting thought. She managed to look stunning, even in something not made to suit her figure.

“I…I must look so ridiculous…”

Jin shook his head as he returned to her, stopping just long enough to pick up the bundle of fish he'd cooked earlier. "You look as lovely as always." He said as he sat down next to her. He gave her his most sincere smile, and hoped she wouldn't think he was just teasing her. He loved to see that faint blush of hers, but he meant what he said. "But if it would make you feel better, we'll get you something that fits better when we reach the next town."

“I guess we need to eat…”

Jin unwrapped the bundle he'd carried the fish in, and laid them out between them. "Sorry, they've gotten cold." He said ruefully. It was not the first time he'd eaten cold fish, and probably wouldn't be the last, but he wasn't sure what Shiho was used to eating. He grinned at the thought. "If someone had told me this morning I'd be eating supper in a cave with a dog and a goddess, I don't think I would've believed them." He tossed another fish to Gojou, realizing the dog had eaten better than he had all day. He then nodded to Shiho. "Help yourself." He picked up one of the fish and began eating.

In truth, had anyone told him he'd ever meed a goddess, he'd have his doubts. And he didn't even want to think about the fact that he was already so helplessly in love with her. He wondered absently if she had any idea that she had the power to bring him to his knees. That, in itself, was such a strange sensation. He'd been independent for the last half of his life, and yet now he was willing to follow this woman like a little dog-no offense to Gojou, of course-and do whatever she bid him do. He really was pathetic, wasn't he?

Without thinking, he reached out and tucked some of her hair behind her shoulder before resting a hand on her cheek. "Shiho..." He wanted to tell her how he felt...just to know if she really would think him a fool. Just to have it all out in the open. But he couldn't bring himself to, so instead he said. "Let me know if your wounds hurt too badly. I've got some roots you can chew that should help with pain." He pulled his hand away and resumed eating. "They taste horrible, but they work."

He wanted to tell her everything...but she was a wind goddess, and he knew he couldn't hope to contain the wind forever. For now he'd be contented to revel in the gentle breeze, and enjoy it until it blew on to the next great adventure. He was already amazed she'd stayed with him this long, but didn't look for her to stick around once her wounds were healed enough for her to leave. He secretly hoped he was wrong.

Gojou devoured the fish Jin had given him before pacing over to Shiho and flopping over next to her, resting his head on her uninjured leg. His humans were so amusing. He didn't really understand why they did...well, most of what they did, but it couldn't be helped. If they weren't ready to realize they desired to be mates, then what could he do to convince them otherwise?

“Then I'll be here as long as you want me.”

She smiled wholeheartedly, “Jin-kun, you are so good to me I honestly hope you will get what you long for in this world, I will pray so you achieve it even…” She then blushed lightly thinking about what she had seen of the battle and he and made a rather sweet and handsome wolf. She giggled though and covered her mouth before looking at him shyly, “I still cannot believe you turn into animals, you made such a cute wolf. I like all animals but canines are my favourites…” She laughed when Gojou acknowledged that with trying to lick her face and the pulled away lightly, although she did not use her other arm for she was wounded. She did not want all of Jin’s effort to go to waste. She looked back at him with a smile, it felt like she had not smiled or been happy in such a long time and yet now, ever since she came across this handsome troubadour, she felt happy and smiley all the time, he was certainly a magician of some sort…

“Thank you.”

She felt her body shiver when he held her hand in his and kissed her knuckles but she smiled tenderly, “It is the least I could do for the man who risked his life and that of his friends to protect me.” It was true, she knew he was a good fighter and he was one powerful Seishi, however, he still had to deal with rough and armed men who had no morals about anything. They would just fight to kill and get what they wanted. Now Shiho was innocent and sweet but she was no fool and she had live din this world before becoming a goddess, she had seen the cruel face of war and what people would do to survive. She noticed their hands were still laced together and she slowly looked at them, she should be moving away to keep him safe but the more she tried the closer they were drawn together, were the Fiend doing this to break their hearts later? No, she felt no evil presence nearby, this was all their won doing.

“You look as lovely as always… But if it would make you feel better, we'll get you something that fits better when we reach the next town.”

She wondered if he truly meant his words. In her own eyes she looked like a silly child wearing something too big for her young age. But she nodded to his last words and finished sorting out her belt so that it would not look too ridiculous. She wanted to get something nice, something that would make Jin look at her in awe. She raised an eyebrow as she finished with the belt and wondered why so suddenly she wanted to please him. Yes, she and finally come to terms that although she only just met him, she loved him. but she did not want to force him to love her, if they were meant to be then she would earn his love just the way she was. Nothing more, nothing less…

”Sorry, they've gotten cold… If someone had told me this morning I'd be eating supper in a cave with a dog and a goddess, I don't think I would've believed them… Help yourself.”

She took her fish and began sting although she blushed at his words. After she swallowed she looked at him curious with what he would reply to her next question, “Does it displease you? I hope I have not changed your life, I would not wish to tie your enjoyment and way of life to mine… I know the value of freedom…” She had lost her own after all, losing things made you realise how important they were right? She finished her fish and then sat back realising Jin was siting but mere inches from her, to her left. She felt her heart be a faster but she dismissed it watching as Gojou caught the fish and ate happily. It almost id feel as if she now had her own family and she smiled and leaned her back on the great rocky wall.

“Shiho…”

She found herself leaning to his touch when he moved her hair away and placed a hand on her cheek. She closed her eyes and without realising whispered, “Jin…” Her eyelashes opened again and emerald eyes looked deeply into his own. She could sense something within him, like a struggle of sorts and she wished she could aid him in this small inner battle of his, but she knew better than to try and meddle with problems that others did not wish to share. She would gladly offer him advice if he ever sought it or even just someone to listen to him, and so she smiled sweetly at him, as if to let him know she would always listen to what he had to say.

”Let me know if your wounds hurt too badly. I've got some roots you can chew that should help with pain… They taste horrible, but they work."

She slowly moved a hand to rest on top of his, the one that still held her cheek so kindly, but she stopped in mid air when he moved his hand away and she looked down for a moment, she folded her knees toward herself and then wrapped her arms around them. “It is a bit painful but I am sure I will be fine, if it gets worse I will let you know.” She smiled at him.

She smiled as Gojou moved to rest his head on her lap and she stretched her legs to allow him to do so. She caressed him and felt almost as if his eyes were arguing she was being silly for not voicing her feelings to this strapping young man. This musician who was also a great warrior… But alas, she was much too meek for him and she would only be a hindrance to his errant life. She closed her eyes for a moment, no, she would be happy so long as she was by his side and her prayers could protect him, even if he found solace in another woman’s arms, she would still love him until the world came apart. It would hurt, of course, if that ever came to pass, but his happiness was much more important to her than anything else for now she found a reason to keep on living and someone worth protecting.

Without being completely aware of what she was doing, though, she moved closer to Jin and rested her back on his chest and her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes and took a long deep breath, she smiled and then fell into a deep sleep while whispering, “Jin… never leave…” Her hair fell in front of her face like elegant cascades and her breathing was relaxed and at peace. She fell asleep in her beloved’s arms, what place could be safer and more wonderful than this?

“Jin-kun, you are so good to me I honestly hope you will get what you long for in this world, I will pray so you achieve it even…”

Jin wanted to tell her that right then, in that cave with her and Gojou, he had everything he longed for. Yeah, money was nice when he had it, and he supposed someone like Shiho was used to a house or something...but it was hard for Jin to long for those things, as he'd never really had them. Now, however, he knew when Shiho chose to leave him, he would long for her. "I think...I've got all I need for now." He said with an easy smile.

“I still cannot believe you turn into animals, you made such a cute wolf. I like all animals but canines are my favourites…"

Jin felt himself blush. Cute? No one had ever called him cute before...especially not when he was in animal form in the midst of a battle. And yet the fact that she had a fondness for canines made him grin, proud he'd chosen that form, though at the time it had been because he sensed the wolf pack answering his call for help. He'd have to remember this fondness when he shifted in the future for her...well, whenever possible. He didn't know a canine big enough to carry her, after all, so some times other animals would still be necessary. "No wonder Gojou likes you so much. Dogs naturally like dog people." He said with a grin, feeling his blush begin to fade. He looked over at Gojou and gave a small laugh. "Though I think that one's just a sucker for a pretty face." He did seem fond of the goddess, after all, not that Jin could fault him there...

“Does it displease you? I hope I have not changed your life, I would not wish to tie your enjoyment and way of life to mine… I know the value of freedom…”

"Hey, I've already told you, I don't do anything I don't want to do." He assured, one eyebrow raised amused, but not teasing. "I don't see where you've done anything to chain me to you..." Besides his falling in love with her, but that was his own doing. "If anything, I've been the one pressuring you to stay with me." He had stopped her running off, after all, and asked her to stay. "If you ever want to leave...I'll understand, you know? Just...say goodbye first, okay? No sneaking off when I'm not looking or something." He had promised to do whatever he could for her, and that included letting her go if she no longer wished to be in his presence....as sad as that would make him, he would understand.

“It is a bit painful but I am sure I will be fine, if it gets worse I will let you know.”

He finished eating and nodded to her words. He wished he could've acted faster and spared her that injury. If he hadn't stopped her running off, maybe she wouldn't have gotten injured at all. Yet, that was the past, and could not be changed now. Besides, if he had let her run off then, he wouldn't have this wonderful, happy moment with her now. His new little family would not feel complete.

He was just about to offer to make her a bed with his pack and his cloak when she moved...not away from him, as he might've thought, but closer to him, leaning her back against his chest and her head against his shoulder. He really was lucky to be there with her in that moment. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her closer, but careful not to jar her injuries. He closed his eyes and listened as her breathing slowed and she drifted off.

“Jin… never leave…”

"I won't, my little goddess..." He said softly, leaning just slightly to kiss her temple before reaching for his Cloak and tossing it, one handed, to cover them both. He was sure she was asleep before he dared to say the next part, though it was still a whisper. "My heart couldn't bear to now..."With a soft sigh, he rested his cheek against the top of her head and closed his eyes, feeling sleep overtake him shortly. He'd spent far too much energy that day and was sure they were both exhausted. And yet, as he drifted off, he realized he felt happier just then than he had in years.

Gojou curled up next to them, watching the mouth of the cave. For tonight, he'd let his humans rest and he'd keep watch...just in case trouble came knocking, though he hoped it wouldn't. It had been an exciting enough day already.

The cave became their one hideout and in a way it was the closest thing she and to a house actually, at present. She could not remember what it was like to have a home anymore, now she wandered and at times was a messenger to the Fiend or did whatever they beckoned her to. An she was either too upset or too weary to oppose them, they had shown countless times the power they truly possessed and their bitterness was at times like a well they filled themselves with, it enhanced their powers and she never completely understood why they opposed the four Gods and their mikes and Seishi, perhaps Shiho was too naive for her own good.

“I think...I've got all I need for now.”

She smiled at him and replied, “Then I will pray that you will always have it.” Her eyes lit up as if to emphasise she meant those words although she was a bit sad, did he truly have all he wanted? On the one hand she was happy because her beloved had everything he could ever want and that meant he rejoiced, but on the other she wished if for a moment that she was part of what he needed to be this happy. It was silly, and though she was happy just to spend some time in his company, she knew that her feelings would never leave, they would always be there blocking her way as the walked on. She could not expect to always impose on him and Gojou, in all honesty, she knew she might as well leave and keep them both safe from her darkness. But she did not want to leave him, not just yet…

”No wonder Gojou likes you so much. Dogs naturally like dog people…Though I think that one's just a sucker for a pretty face.”

There was something about his blush, it made him even more attractive and at the same time sweet. She smiled and then registered his last few words and laughed, she looked down at Gojou and caressed his ears, they were so soft… like silk… She wonder if Jin’s lips were even softer, she sighed and kept her eyes on Gojou not wanting to look back into those deep purple abysses, she knew she would blush once again if she did…

“Hey, I've already told you, I don't do anything I don't want to do… I don't see where you've done anything to chain me to you… If anything, I've been the one pressuring you to stay with me… If you ever want to leave...I'll understand, you know? Just...say goodbye first, okay? No sneaking off when I'm not looking or something.”

She giggled at his words and then slowly sat on her knees, “Lucky for you I am injured, otherwise I confess it would be fun to see what you would do if I tried to sneak off.” Her eyes shone rather playfully before she finally allowed her tiredness to take over her and she leaned toward Jin, her beloved. She did not know how he would react to such a bold move but Shiho did not like to start something and not finish it. So, she moved closer to him and if he wished her away, he would only have to say so. So far all he did was wrap his arms around her and she sighed happily and allowed him to pull her closer to him. She gently moved to her side and rested her head on his shoulder running an arm around him and smiling at the comfort of his cloak covering them.

It was strange but, even though she was convinced that Jin did not feel the same emotions she did, she still sensed his happiness when holding her in his arms and closing his eyes. She truly enjoyed tis closeness and wished they could stay like this forever. But she did not want to be selfish and would only stay with him if that was what he truly wanted, she did not want to become a burden and she knew he loved travelling, she did not want him to sacrifice his life to pro pure a home where she could stay safe and sound. She and once lived in a home, she remembered it well, but, her life was different ever since she was made a goddess. So, she truly did not care if she did not live indie a building anymore… In fact, nature came to feel more like home to her.

"I won't, my little goddess…”

She smiled feeling his kiss and hearing his words. Yet, why did she suddenly feel great pleasure when he called her like that? Could it mean he was fond of her? She wanted to hope that with all her heart. She wanted to believe he was not simply being polite to her as he would to other ladies or simply because she was a goddess. And then, as she fell asleep thoughts of all what happened that day filled her mind and she found herself smiling even more and she soon drifted to sleep in the arms of beloved Jin. She only hoped the next morning this sparkling scene would not disappear and she would wake up on her own. At such fears she held on to him a bit more tightly, as if she feared she might be abandoned at any moment once she fell asleep completely.

After a few hours, Shiho knew it was dawn and she lightly stirred in Jin’s arms. She smiled realising he was still there with her and she allowed herself five more minutes in his warm embrace. She then looked up at him, he looked so handsome even when he slept and so at peace, she did not wish to wake him up and so she slipped off as sneakily as she could manage to and covered him with the cloak once more. Her eyes then stopped as they traced down his lips.

She could steal a kiss now, one she longed for, and he would not know… She slowly began to lean forward and, just as her lips were but mere inches from his own she sighed and moved away. As much as she loved him it would not be fair on him and it would be horrible if she did something like that while he was unconscious. No, she had to keep her act together.

She sighed and then silently moved out of the cave and followed the gentle sound of a waterfall. Once she reached the waterfalls she looked around, she was quite pleased with the little place she had found, no one would see her here. She did not want to disgust Jin with how smelly she now was. She sighed and then moved to hide behind a great rock, once there, she removed her boots, socks, her skirt and shirt along with her undergarments.

She gently entered the water to waist level and then began to wash herself gently, she would not submerge completely since she had a bandaged shoulder but she would still wash herself as much as possible and she slowly walked toward the waterfall and turned her back at the path she had followed and she smiled feeling the cool water touch her body. She giggled when a carp Koi splashed her and then she began to sum a silent and soft tune while she enjoyed the feeling of the water, the mdic of its flow and the intimacy that such an act rendered. She gently washed her arms and waist and even poured some water to her face making sure not to touch her bandages at all.

As she washed in this hidden pool, she could not hep it but to think back on the moment she and Jin had met and she smiled, despite some crude experiences she could count it as one of the most delightful days she had ever experienced. Even if he left now and she did not find him when she returned to the cave, she would always remember him fondly.

Her hair shook violently with gust of wind revealing her cream-skin and she stretched her arms upward to lee her hear down and laughed softly, even when it was her element she did not like to abuse of her powers and so she did not use it all the time. She applied some water to her chest and back and then crossed her arms around herself feeling the cool water cleanse her worries away. Moist droplets of water ran down her skin as she looked back at the waterfalls. Her body felt relaxed, she truly had need that bath. Once she was done she would try and get breakfast ready for them.

“Lucky for you I am injured, otherwise I confess it would be fun to see what you would do if I tried to sneak off.”

Jin smiled, enjoying this slightly teasing side of her. "I'd come find you, naturally. And probably tie you to me so you couldn't do it again." He gave her a wide grin. When they settled down to sleep, he was surprised that she actually seemed to want to be near him. Could it be that she loved him too? Or was that just wishful thinking? He pushed the thought away. She'd been through so much that day...she probably just wanted company and comfort. Still, he was more than content with her so close, wrapped in his arms as they both drifted off to sleep together.

He could not recall what he dreamed that night...only that he'd been so exhausted that he slept far heavier than usual, and that his dreams were sweet and happy. A small part of his mind was aware of something happening in the waking world...something that felt like...like he'd lost something that made him happy, but he pushed that away for just a few moments longer.

Eventually he was woken fully by Gojou's excited yips of greeting, and by the dog bathing his face with affection. "Alright already, I'm up." He grumbled, sitting up and pushing the dog aside as he wiped the slobber from his cheek. Memories flitted back into his sleep-clogged brain, and he relied that feeling of loss was Shiho leaving. Had she been there, really? Or had that been part of his dreams. He looked around the cave and spotted her ruined shirt. No she shad been there...but where was she now?

He pulled himself to his feet. Perhaps she had gone for a walk...though that would be silly of her, since she was injured. Or perhaps she had left. He'd asked her to say goodbye if she did, but that didn't mean she had to. And she had said she'd like to see what he'd do if she tried to sneak away...

He ran his hand over his face and then through his hair before looking at Gojou again. "Well, buddy, where did she go?" As if in answer, the dog turned and left the cave. Jin shrugged and followed, curious to see if he would actually lead him to Shiho...or just go chase a squirrel. He followed the black dog down a natural path worn though the woods, and soon heard water in the distance. A stream? Yes, it was, and a waterfall too, it seemed.

He froze the moment the waterfall came into view. Shiho was there, comepletely undressed, washing herself and carefully avoiding wetting the bandages on her wounds. Her back was to him, but the wind caused her hair to swirl around her. She truly was a vision in loveliness. He stared for a long moment, taking in her pale skin and soft curves. She was beautiful, and if possible he felt he loved her even more, though his feelings were not just because she was lovely. He loved her, and considered this just a very pretty package.

With a deep blush and a sudden start, he realized what he was doing and turned, heading back for the cave as quickly as he could. He'd just spied on her bathing, without her permission...without taking her feelings into account. Didn't that make him just as bad as those men who had used his mother in exchange for money...men like his father? Those men he'd sworn never to be like. He had just invaded her privacy, after all, and that was a terrible thing to do. And yet he wondered...if she'd known he was there, what would she have done? Would she have slapped him and taken her leave? Perhaps...perhaps she'd be okay with him watching...

No, that was foolish thinking. She was so shy and sweet, after all. That would be the last thing she'd want him to do. He'd have to apologize when she returned...though he didn't want to admit what he'd done, so it would be hard to apologize for...

And then another thought came to him. She was taking a bath. He pulled a face, trying to remember when his last had been. It was hard to recall because after a while one stream blended into another and it became difficult to distinguish. He didn't think he was all that bad...but he'd been through a lot of hard work the previous day...perhaps it wouldn't hurt to slip off and get a bath himself, while she was preoccupied. After all, he didn't want to stink when she returned smelling lovely and clean.

That decided, he took a change of clothes from his pack in the cave-all except a shirt, as he and Shiho were wearing his last two clean ones- and tucked the clean clothes under his arm. "Guard the cave while I'm gone, and come get me when Shiho returns...if I'm not back by then." He told Gojou. He didn't have to speak out loud to animals, but somethimes he enjoyed doing so. He then stood and strolled out into the bright morning light,

Typically when he was in that area, he used the waterfall to wash up, but as Shiho was using it currently, he knew of another spot. It wasn't too far, so he'd hear if there was any trouble, but it was secluded. It was a small lake...more like a large pond, really, in the middle of a clearing. He reached it, and smiled, glad to see the water was as fresh and clear as always. He set his clean clothes on a nearby rock, before removing his shirt and laying it on the rock as well. He then quickly removed his boots and the rest of his clothes, dropping them rather unceremoniously on the ground...they needed cleaning, anyway. He'd see to that once they reached the next town. The only thing he didn't remove was the chain around his neck holding his mother's ring. He even pulled his hair out of it's usual confines and gave his head a shake.

Once undressed, he waded into the water which was waist high at its deepest. He stretched his arms above his head for a moment before he looked about the clearing. He really enjoyed nature, and perhaps he should be a little more shy or modest, but he saw no point. Animals didn't care if he was clothed or not, and the only human around was Shiho, and she was probably still bathing herself. Shiho...

He briefly recalled seeing her bathing, and felt his cheeks warm again. He then wondered what she'd think if she saw him like this...would she like what she saw, or would he hold no interest for her? He shook his head and sank into the water. He took a deep breath and held it before submerging completely and swimming around under the water for some short time, genuinely enjoying the feel of the water on his skin. After a few moments, he surfaced, gulping air. He stood once more, and grinned, shaking his hair for a moment before he began to splash himself and make sure he was clean. He was so absorbed in his own thoughts that he forgot to keep an ear open for Gojou or anything else that may approach.

”I'd come find you, naturally. And probably tie you to me so you couldn't do it again.”

Shiho laughed genuinely and shook her head. She was not sure how but this young man managed to make her heart at bliss. It was probably biased since she knew she loved him now, but, he had done this to her even when she was unaware of her own feelings toward him. Jin was so lively, it was contagious and she knew she had never had so much fun before, not even when she was a mortal and did not have to worry about being a goddess or having the Fiend on her tail. It was strange how one incident could change you so much or shape a life you were so used to having. Now, she wished she had never been selected a goddess for that made her the Fiend’s target as many other minor deities were. They enslaved them in the cruelest of ways, either by taking their loved ones or imposing these magical things like what she had around her neck. In fact, now that she examined it, it looked terrible, dark and made her feel a terrible omen as she ran a finger through it.

Even now, as she washed herself, she knew that it must make her look out of place even without any clothing. As she bathed she could not help but to wonder if Jin would indeed look for her if she went missing and tie her to him, she would then be the happiest girl alive, she mused. She laughed softly and then concentrated on the bath to evade wishing she had stayed longer in his arms and slept on. At least then she had been as close to him as she could, and had enjoyed the embrace for as long as it lasted. Maybe she could go and wake him up if he was still sleeping, she would be more presentable, although, she blushed lightly at a realisation, she and nothing to dry herself with and the shirt Jin had lend her was…white… She hoped he would not mind…

She looked at the reflection of her body in the water and she wondered would he mind seeing her like this? Would he like…what his eyes would see? She blushed even more but now that the thoughts was there it would not go away. Surely he had seen many beautiful ladies in his journeys in the past, surely he could never content himself with someone like her? Surely a man like him was more into ladies that could fight, be independent and much more womanly looking. She probably looked like a small girl in his eyes, why else would he be so considerate toward her feelings and he well-being? She kept her stare for a moment and though she could probably be an attractive person, she was convinced she was not. Jin would probably laugh at her if he saw her…She looked down and decided it was best she got out and got dressed before he saw her. She did not want him to be nice to her just for the sake of being chivalrous.

She washed her face once more before she slowly made her way back to the rock. She thought she heard noises nearby but as she looked she could not see anyone. It was probably her mind playing nasty tricks.

She reached her clothes and then used her cloak to try and dry herself as much as possible and then finally got dressed. She did feel much better now that she was clean and she was even relaxed. She would go to the cave to wake up her beloved and if he was already up then she would fix breakfast for all of them. She was injured but if she was careful she could be useful. She would show him… She looked at her reflection ion the water and fixed her long violet hair before she finally smiled and walked back to the cave.

She was a bit surprised not to see Jin and feared the worst, but then she realised his things were still in the cave, could it be he had gone to look for her? Did he see her? She flushed faintly before she shook her head, she would have known right? She smiled at Gojou and then began to prepare breakfast. Once done she gave the for a fish and said, “My friend, do you reckon you could help me find Jin-kun? I hope he did not fret in not finding me and went to look for me…” She was a bit worried and hoped he had not gone far.

The dog looked into her eyes for a moment before he exited the cave. Shiho looked at him blankly for a moment but decided to follow him. She did not expect him to fully understand her but then again they were members of his pack, so he must always know where everyone was. She smiled and realised Gojou was leading her on the opposite side of the stream she had been washing in and she looked down a bit embarrassed and she rolled her eyes. Now that’s just silly, why was she being shy now?

And then, she stopped on her tracks when she saw a pond of crystalline water. Now, that would not amaze most persons she was sure but, rather, what she saw in it. Jin seemingly had the same idea as her-though she wondered if he had seen her that morning-.He was so beautiful…washing himself and swimming at leisure and whenever he stood up she was allowed to see the well carved muscles in his sculpted and tanned body, and his long purple hair looked like silk wet and with droplets falling. And she noticed the necklace, and she felt about to collapse out of amour and embarrassment. She came to realise that she was far refer than she had ever been before.

In fat, it was such that she felt a bit sweaty even and she realised that any time now he would turn and see her, and what would the naive be doing? Spying on a rather handsome and naked man. Oh Byakko if only she could have been spared this shame! She turned and faster than she could ever remember running she went back to the cave and gave Gojou a dark look, “I cannot believe you are so bold Gojou…”

Yet the dog only wiggled his tail and she panted trying to catch her breath and she felt the pain in her shoulder again due to the effort of reaching the cave before Jin knew she had been…spying on him…

Oh, she was sure he would hate her if he knew she dared to do such a thing. And as she placed her hands on her cheeks she remembered the scene like a vision… She closed her eyes and then sat by the breakfast she had prepared and looking at the fish she sighed, “You are so beautiful…” she whispered to herself before noticing Gojou was no where to be seen. Did he get upset? She hoped not but this had been something she had not expected and she had to say this little furry friend was being quite the mischievous sort.

Jin allowed his thoughts to wonder. Once he returned to the cave, he'd have to think of some sort of breakfast for them, if Shiho had returned from her bath by then. That led his thoughts back to the lovely goddess, and he shook his head. He honestly had no idea how much longer he could keep this us. He loved her, he knew he did, and he wanted to tell her...just so she'd know.

But what could he offer her? He'd been told he was charming, though he had his doubts, and she enjoyed his company and his music, but wouldn't all that stuff get old eventually? Especially to an immortal like her? His life must be little more than a moment to her...and yet he wanted to make it the happiest moment she'd ever had. He splashed his face again to clear the thoughts, and turned to head back to the shore. He wasn't sure when-or if-he'd confess his feelings, but he was looking forward to returning to the cave. To see her, and bid her a proper 'good morning'.

Gojou emerged from the surrounding trees, and sat by his clothes, watching as Jin approached. He dried himself with his cloak and wrung as much water as he could from his hair. "Shiho back at the cave?" He asked as he began to dress. The dog told him there was food at the cave, and Shiho had prepared it. Jin smiled. Leave it to Gojou to think food was the most important part.

Once he was dressed, complete with the shirt from the night before and a clean vest of dark green-which made him think of Shiho again-he sat down to pull on his boots and ruffled the dog's ears before combing out his hair with his fingers and tying it back. "How is she this morning?" He asked Gojou as he bundled his other clothes up with his cloak and tucked them under his arm. The dog informed him that she was mad at him-Gojou, not Jin-for something, though he wouldn't tell the seishi what the reason was.

Jin headed back for the cave, pondering the reasons. Why would Shiho be mad at Gojou? Unless...did she know he'd led Jin to where she was bathing, and that Jin had seen her? But in that case, wouldn't she be upselt with Jin as well? No, most likely, Gojou had stolen some of her breakfast, or jumped up and gotten her dirty or...something.

Still, as he neared the cave, he felt his resolve to come clean-no pun intended-and tell her that he'd seen her bathing dwindle. It felt as if he should tell her...but what if she got angry and wanted to leave? He couldn't blame her, after all...but he wasn't ready to lose her yet either. Perhaps...perhaps he could work up to it. He could tell her after breakfast, maybe.

He entered the cave, and a smile instantly spread across his lips. She was sitting there, next to the meal she'd prepared, and looking just as lovely as ever. Her skin must still be damp, as the shirt he'd learned her seemed to cling in places, and it made her look even more alluring. He paused in the mouth of the cave for just a moment to take in the sight of the woman he loved, but then he entered and dropped the bundle he carried next to his pack to sort out later. "Good morning, Shiho-chan. How are you feeling?"

He moved to sit next to her and the food, but instead of looking at the food, he seemed to examine her, checking the two wounds he could see. "We'll need to change the bandages again before we set out." He informed. His hand seemed to move on its own, reaching out to take one of hers for just a moment and holding it, gently stroking the soft skin with his thumb. He wasn't sure why he did it, but he enjoyed the feel of her soft skin, so he hoped she wouldn't mind.

He released her hand gently, and looked at last to the food. "I haven't had someone make me breakfast in years." He gave her a genuine smile. "Thank you, Shiho-chan." He handed her some food before he began to eat himself, truly enjoying it because his beloved had prepared it for him.

He did need to change the bandages on her wounds. He also needed to ensure she rested them as much as possible until they healed...at least enough that reopening wasn't a concern. Walking to the next town was out of the question. It wouldn't be good for that thigh wound, and though he was sure he could carry her in his arms, he didn't think she would readily agree to that. Perhaps he could carry her piggy-back, or transform into a horse and carry her that way. He'd have to see if she'd agree to that idea once her wounds were tended again.