Wind & Snow II - Butterfly Effect

by theladypantera

Mated to the woman that owns his heart & his official mating ceremony nearing life is finally looking up for Kouga but not everyone is on board with their relationship. Strange events in the future & a dark past that rears its ugly head has Kouga realizing that not everything is as it seems.Will their new relationship survive the revelations? Only time will tell.

14. Ch 14 Big, Bad Wolf

Aug 25, 2021

Hello everyone! I'm so happy to be posting the next chapter for W&S II! Thank you so much for all your patience, support, and encouragement for this story. I was hoping to have this posted a lot earlier but it's been a very busy summer and lots going on. Hopefully this chapter will make up for the wait :) You'll also learn a few more interesting tidbits about Kouga and his past!

Okay folks! That's all for now! :)

Hope you are all well! Please enjoy the next chapter of W&S II, "Big, bad wolf."

oh, yeah, almost forgot! lol

***LEMON WARNING!***

This chapter contains (very) graphic scenes of a sexual nature.

NOT intended for young audiences.

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"When I'm good, I'm very good, but when I'm bad, I'm better. " ― Mae West

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-ooOooOooOoo-W&S II W&S-ooOooOooOoo-

He doesn't even realize he's fallen asleep until his yoki stirs him suddenly awake. Bright blue eyes blaze open as Kouga's demonic mind begins to take in his environment with his every sense, determining what it is that has roused the beast.

"Kagome?" His eyes fall on the empty space beside him. He sniffs the air, his nose confirming what his other senses already have, his mate is not in their chamber, not even in the bathroom. Tossing the blankets aside, he quickly rises from the bed, his yoki stirring with agitation as he wraps one of the furs around his waist.

"Kagome?" Kouga paces the chamber, sensing her close but not where. He catches the last of her scent on the far side of the room, facing a blank wall. "What the?" He can feel the smallest pull of yoki behind the stone. Placing his palm against the smooth surface, his hand moves towards the subtle buzz of energy and something depresses under his palm, it's followed by the muted sounds of stone moving against stone.

"Whoa," Kouga stands back as a doorway opens before him, leading into a dimly lit tunnel, his woman's scent wafting from within. Small blue flames of youkai fire blaze in little depressions along the wall just above head height, providing ample light as Kagome's scent calls out to him, pulling him into the corridor. Ignoring the faint sounds of the wall closing behind him, Kouga makes for the opposite end of the tunnel in a handful of long strides, bringing him up to another stone wall. He searches out the buzz of energy he knows will be there, his palm ghosting over the smooth surface as he triggers the release, sliding the hidden doorway open. The moment it does, Kouga's yoki shifts from restlessness to arousal so hard and fast his head spins, hazing his mind with potent blasts of desire as he drinks in the sight before him.

His utterly delectable woman sits half submerged in the cool, clean waters of a large, out door spring he hadn't known was there. Humming softly to herself, Kagome rubs a damp cloth over that creamy skin of hers he never tires of running his tongue over. Her mass of dark hair is piled loosely atop her head in a messy top knot with a few strands escaping. The wisps of damp hair cling to the soft curves of her neck and collarbone, inviting the prick of his fangs that ache at the thought, making Kouga's dick jump as he imagines burying his nose there, soaking in her intoxicating scent.

"You gonna stand there watching all night or you gonna come and freshen up too?" Kagome smiles at him from over her shoulder, drawing Kouga from his very enjoyable musings.

He walks slowly over to her, drinking down the way his woman devours the half-naked sight of him and his eyes spark with hunger, "I was wondering where you got to." Removing his furs, Kouga drops them next to the ones Kagome had used, alongside her yellow carrier that spills out a number of various future bath items. He slips into the waters beside her, splashing her teasingly and making her giggle.

"Hey, baby," pressing a quick kiss to her lips, he tugs her onto his lap, needing to feel her pressed against him. Her legs part immediately, Kagome's knees clamping around his waist as she settles her folded legs on his lap beneath the waters, his ever erect hard-on in the presence of his woman, trapped between them.

"Hey," she hums back against Kouga's lips, never tiring of how often she feels them pressed against her own. Tightening her hold on the washcloth in her hand, she wraps her arms around his neck, drawing him closer. His arms cage around her and she sighs with pleasure, basking in the feel of his strong hands touching and massaging her body as he moves his hands over her.

Fucking hell, the soft purr in Kagome's voice does something to Kouga's libido that's already having a hard time staying put considering the steel rod between his legs stealing all the blood supply and self-control from his brain. "Why didn't you wake me?" He nuzzles his nose along her cheek, inhaling her sweet, clean scent like a man starved. A scent that now always smells just a little bit like him. He inhales deeper, enjoying the rush he always feels from it.

"Sorry," Kagome's eyes flutter guiltily under her long lashes as she looks down into Kouga's adoring gaze. "You looked so peaceful and I didn't want to wake you." She twirls a dark wisp of his long, loose hair around her fingers, loving the feel of it beneath her touch.

"You should have," he rumbles, pressing soft, quick kisses down along her neck and shoulder. The way Kagome tilts her head to the side, giving him more access, only encouraging his efforts. "That way we could have played a little longer," he growls low before clamping his mouth at the base of her neck in a teasing manner, right over his mark. He presses down gently with his teeth and Kagome rolls her hips into him – hard!

"Ahh! Kouga! D-Don't do that," she gasps, feeling heat blast down her spine and into her abdomen, trickling down into her toes. She feels Kouga growl against her neck, his clamped teeth still not letting go of her, and the heat continues to build. It's when she feels his tongue lap over the mark that she's almost positive she's going to actually come if he just brushes against her clit right now. "H-Holy cow," she gasps, desperate to catch her breath, "w-what is that?"

"Hmm," Kouga rumbles, releasing the grip of his teeth from her and licking his lips, savoring her taste on his tongue. The moment he frees her, the tension in Kagome's body relaxes, the fires inside her cooling slightly, and she gives a shaky breath. Skimming his nose along her neck, Kouga peppers it with little kisses everywhere he passes over. "Looks like your mating mark is working well," he grunts with amusement, dragging his tongue over the spot again just so he can feel her shiver.

"I'll say," Kagome nearly chokes out, making Kouga rumble with laughter while she does her best to keep from rubbing herself all over his lap and chest, trying to hump him raw, which is probably his intent, but fuck! (as Kouga would say) it's no wonder she craves his mouth on her neck, her mating mark acting like a direct line to her burning ovaries and clenching thighs. All he has to do is work her there for long enough to have her a writhing, hot-blooded, horny mess, and as much as she'd revel indulging in that (again), they do have a celebration to be getting to.

"Too bad we don't have time to play," Kouga rumbles at her ear, already anticipating all her arguments, but all Kagome can think about is the feel of his hands rubbing up and down her arms, over her stomach, kneading her skin under his feather light touches, her body reminding her just how good he is at doing that in other places. Leaning back as far as her hooked arms will allow, she gives him more room to wander.

"Yeah, too bad," Kagome sighs, feeling liquid heat ooze through every limb, penetrating deep into her muscles and bones. How does he know exactly where to touch her? Has he drawn up a map of her body that he references without her knowing?

"After all, we have a party to get to and we've gotta get clean." It's a low, rough rumble, one she feels pulse over her body as Kouga's mouth and lips track over every inch of skin he can reach, all the while his hands continue their sensual assault over her body, the waters gentle lapping at their movements lulling her further.

"Mmhmm," Kagome answers, feeling herself grinding slowly against him and that weapon between his thighs he wields so well, one she can barely wait to be destroyed by despite all her protests to the contrary. "That's what I was mmm... doing," she sighs, her eyes closing when she feels Kouga's strong hands cupping and kneading the heavy flesh of her breasts, twisting and rolling her hard nipples between his fingers, birthing a new heat low in her belly. "Somehow... aah... my backpack was here," she can barely finish her thought with him slowly stripping away all her defences.

"I know, I picked it up for you just after you fell asleep," Kouga growls against her ear, wishing he'd been able to let her rest longer than the half hour they'd barely had, but some things are more important than sleep, especially when it involves his naked woman. "I figured you'd probably want something from it before the party," he says, sucking on the tender flesh at the nape of her neck and making her gasp sharply, definitely one of the more sensitive and easily accessible places on her that he enjoys playing with.

"You . . . You did?" She makes Kouga pause in his wanderings so she can look at him, it's what she'd suspected when she'd seen the carrier at the foot of their bed, fairly certain it hadn't been there earlier but she hadn't been sure. It's not something she's used to after all, someone looking out for her needs.

"Sure," he answers like it's the most natural thing in the world, and that's what gets her so deep. For him, it is. It's such a simple gesture, yet so incredibly thoughtful Kagome can feel warmth fuse through her whole body even as wetness pools at the edges of her eyes as she stares back into the sea that had stolen her heart.

"Thank you, Kouga," her tone comes out a little more hoarse than she intends, her emotions getting the better of her, but her wolf seems to understand, also understanding exactly what she needs when he gives her that sexy grin of his, skimming his fingers up along her arm and taking the forgotten wash cloth from her hand.

Leaning closer, Kouga's warm breath tickles the side of her neck. "Just taking care of my woman," he husks in that rich, butterscotch rumble that never fails to stir butterflies in her belly. Drawing the wet cloth slowly back down her arm and over her shoulder, Kouga drags it over her damp skin, rubbing firm but soft as he goes, his mind already awash in all the different ways he loves to touch and tease that skin.

"But, if you really wanna show your gratitude and be nice," he grins, the burn in his eyes revealing all his sordid thoughts as he massages the cloth down and over her breasts, rubbing her body with strong, slow circles all the way down her abdomen, his gaze heating the farther down he trails.

"Or . . ." Kagome hums, gods, she wants nothing more than to surrender to Kouga's deep, probing touches and hungry looks, if only they had more time. . . or, what if they just used less time? a part of her brain happily chirps in. She gives herself a mental shake, the quickies they've attempted in the past turning into anything but. Thorough? Definitely. Quick? Not so much.

"How about if you play nice and I just might have a surprise for you later," Kagome tries to bribe, the moonstone ring she has yet to give him tucked safely in the pocket of the white furs she'd been gifted from the northern tribes. Kouga has made it very clear how much he enjoys seeing her in those, and since the wolf-demons have contributed so much to the village, it seems only proper to honor them at the festivities tonight by wearing their clothing. Our pack. Memories of Kouga's words brighten the red on Kagome's cheeks, reaffirming her choice in attire.

"Really?" Kouga's eyes light up as he locks gazes with her, his mind already awash with a million different surprises that all involve a very naked and very sweaty Kagome. It's his woman's soft laughter that snaps him back from his incredibly vivid daydreams.

"If that look in your eyes is anything to go by, I can already tell you that your mind's in the wrong place, buster," Kagome smirks, not evening wanting to imagine what thoughts might be going through her wolf's head, no doubt such fantasies will break ratings.

"Not as far as I'm concerned," Kouga grunts, leaning forward to nip her cheek and making her giggle. "So, what you're saying is that in order to get this surprise, I have to be 'good'?" he looks at her dubiously, "Is that right?"

"Well," she twirls his hair around a finger, her other arm slung over his neck, "it's really more of a gift that you'll get either way, but you being a good wolf," at the words 'good wolf' Kouga's eyes narrow on her, making Kagome's grin widen, "I thought that would just be a nice touch on your part," she smiles sweetly at him. Every shade of blue that darkens in the irises before her, sends a little thrill shooting through her. "In fact, if you're a very good wolf," sliding the palm of her hand down his chest, she scratches him lightly, deepening the rumble she can feel beneath her touch, "I might have more than one," she teases, looking up at him from beneath lowered lashes, knowing there's definitely a thing or two she can personally do to tempt her wolf.

"Hmmm," Kouga's dick jumps with his thoughts, images of all the ways he wants to so completely dominate and inhale the woman before him starting to make him feel a little crazed. Gods, she's just way too fucking delicious for her own good, and they've already established he's got one hell of an appetite.

"Oh, I think being very good isn't much of a problem for me, is it Kags?" he rumbles low and thick, nuzzling his nose along the curve of her ear and tickling the fine hairs there, both of them thinking back on all the ways he's made her cry out and beg for more. "Besides, I like being the big, bad wolf so much better." The husk of his breath tickles against Kagome's ear, making her shiver as he continues his slow, torturous assault with the washcloth.

"Oh, I know you do," she sighs, her heart beating faster the farther down Kouga moves with that bit of cloth. When his hand slips beneath the waters and between her spread thighs, her body reacts instantly, her hips rolling and arching into him, splashing the waters as she anticipates his movements, her body offering itself up willingly.

Kouga's eyes darken and the hand with the washcloth rubs over Kagome's core in wide, slow circles, making her mewl softly. The sound sends a burst of static charge pulsing down his shaft in the most incredible fucking way, a sound he needs to hear more of. A sound he knows will pitch even higher when it's skin to skin. Uncurling his fingers, he skims his index down along that centre slit of hers and the beast in his chest surges forward, always ready and needing to claim the creature in their grasp.

"And you like me that way, don't you, Kags?" he growls, nipping the skin of her collarbone with his teeth just as he pushes a thick digit deep inside her core.

"Aah, shii-!" white burns behind her eyes as Kagome's whole body bows, igniting into flames. The heat scorching her insides grows with every slow thrust of Kouga's fingers, her body needing so much more now that the match has been struck.

"Fuck, look how you squeeze my finger," Kouga growls, feeling the way her body quakes and shivers at his intrusion. The scent of her arousal burns hotter, intensifying his need for her with every drag of breath he takes. "And here I thought you wanted me to be good," the inflection of his tone curling just as deep as the finger he pushes inside her, making her mewl a needy sound that spikes his desire to be pounding into her, heavy, raw, and bottoming out until she's a senseless, sobbing mess coming around his cock and he's spewing his load deep inside her hot little core.

"Is this good enough for you, koi?" Rubbing the washcloth with the heel of his palm in hard, slow circles over Kagome's mound, Kouga ramps her up with increasingly harder thrusts into the wet heat he can't wait to have wrapped around his dick. Her half-formed words and gasping moans as her eyes roll back only adding kindling to his fire.

"Fuck, look how wet and greedy your pussy is for my fingers," his woman's pitching moans and explicit cries of pleasure set Kouga's demon blood on fire, needing to hear them pitch so much higher. "Just wait till it's my dick inside you, Kags," he growls, feeling said appendage throb in response, "I'm gonna pound into you so hard and so good, you'll think it's a sin," the tone of his voice promising every dirty word as he squeezes the breast in his palm, twisting the hard tip between his fingers just right.

"Shiit!" Kagome cries as her head snaps back and her chest pushes forward, every inch of skin on her body needing to be touched, needing to be sucked. She whimpers under the growing pressures of Kouga's mind-shattering touch, hands that know every part of her, every dip and crevice of her body. Hands that can bring her world to a blinding, sensual crescendo of glorious heat and electricity, or drag it to a stuttering, painful halt.

"You're so evil," she hums when she feels Kouga's pace inside her begin to slacken and he chuckles softly, the sound curling a heat blossom in her stomach that squeezes her thighs together.

"Sounds familiar," he grins at her. Gods, she makes him so rock fucking hard that all the blood pooling in his dick is starting to give him a headache. "The way I see it," his fingers continue to play their slower tempo at her core, delving into her and fucking her deep while his thumb swirls lazy circles over her sensitive nub, having long ditched the washcloth, his woman's weeping pussy cupped in his palm - exactly where it should be.

"Since we're already getting clean, it probably wouldn't hurt to get a little dirty again," Kouga grins, happily taking Kagome's hint when she pushes her chest into him. Twisting and tugging at the nipple between his fingers, he rolls the nub before squeezing it firmly, causing her to cry out and grind herself on his fingers.

"Gods," Kagome moans, her body twists as it aches, filling with such a burning need, such a deep hunger, it's starting to break her mind a little. "Somehow I'm not surprised that's how your aaah!.. logic works," she half sobs, half laughs in between Kouga's teasing strokes at her core, the deep rumble echoing through his chest heightening all her sensations. The pressure inside her rises as fast and furious as any ocean wave, one she is unable to withstand as her hips swivel and grind against him.

"That's cause you know it's smart," Kouga grunts, dipping his head to wrap his lips around her other pebbled nipple. Gods, it's so succulent in his mouth, and the need to bite down on it overwhelms him as he does exactly that, just enough to make her scream and buck into his hand before sucking the point deep into his mouth, changing the pitch of Kagome's cries and soaking his fingers in her dripping juices.

"Gods, you taste so fucking good," he rumbles around the flesh in his mouth. He flicks his thumb over her clit – hard – the cry she makes sending electrical shocks skittering down his shaft, burning up his balls in the most incredible fucking way.

"Kougah!" It's the way she says his name that tells him he's still got a 50 – 50 chance of this still going his way as he continues to roll his thumb over that sensitive clit, making her breath hitch.

"Come on, Kags, let me take care of you," he rumbles low, tugging, twisting, and stroking her in all the ways he's learned to play her addictive little body, all the ways that make her senseless. "Let me give you what you're craving," one hand plucks her nipple hard, making her keen. "What you're burning up for," he rumbles. She grinds down hard against his palm, her pussy squeezing tight around his fingers.

"And what is it I'm... ahh... burning up for?" Kagome arches into his touch, desperate for him to take her into his mouth again. Her nipples harden to chips of ice at the thought, a sight her wolf doesn't miss for a second, making the flames burning in his eyes leap all the higher.

"What only I can give you," Kouga growls, a pulse of possessive energy empowering the words just as he slips a second finger deep inside her core and his mouth wraps around a stiff peak, sucking hard on the nipple he swallows into his mouth. The cry Kagome makes as her thighs clamp around him feeds the fires burning inside him. The way she presses her hot pussy down on his fingers, riding him hard, makes him desperate to have her riding something else.

"Oh, my... faaa!" When Kouga wraps his lips around her, sucking that stiff point hard between his lips, Kagome cries out his name because it's the only word she can focus on as she grinds her core hard against his hands. She can feel how needy she is for him, each tug on her breast sending sparks of pleasure shooting to her clit, making her writhe and squirm on his lap and the waters splash violently around them, but she doesn't care. More than anything she needs to feel every part of him surrounding her, consuming her, splitting her open.

"Mmm, gods, Kouga," how does he do it to her? She might as well be a rag doll when he starts turning on whatever the hell his magical gift seems to be that has a direct line to her scalding ovaries and soaking thighs. "How... How do you that?" she purrs rolling her hips in time with his thrust. His deep, throaty laughter twists something hot and liquid in her belly.

"Do what, Kags?" The husk in his voice acts like kindling. "Make you feel... hot?" Kouga pumps into her deep, the edge of his thumb brushing over and circling her clit with varying pressure, her screams edging him on, rubbing her faster and harder. "Make you feel... needy?" His words are kerosene to her flames as his lips move to her throat where he presses his canines carefully against her vulnerable flesh, right over her mark, and she shudders against his hot breath. "Make you feel hot and needy," Kouga rumbles, dragging his tongue over her mark at the same time he takes a deep, sweet pull and thrust at her core.

"Oh, godss, Kouga!" her head is floating in a sea of lust and desire, she can barely form thoughts and words. Just like that, he's obliterated all of her senses.

Abruptly, Kouga halts his pace, making Kagome half sob with disapproval as she tries to shift her hips, seeking the friction he's holding back from her. He pulls her closer, pushing down on her hips and grinding her against his lap hard without giving her the penetration she's craving.

"Does this mean I don't get my surprise?" he rumbles low, his nose nuzzling her cheek and face.

"Wha?" Kagome's head swims with so much pent up euphoria and estrogen wrapped up in flames and lightning she can barely recall her own name.

Fuck, he loves how lost she is to him, almost as much as he is to her. He can smell the intensity of her arousal and it's enough to drown him and bring him back from the dead. "I think you'll agree that this," Kouga drags his fingers a little farther out of her, giving her a slightly deeper thrust before stopping again. She mewls unhappily as she twists in his arms, desperately seeking what he's holding back from her. "This qualifies as being bad," he grins sexily at her.

Kagome's whole body throbs with need, hazing her mind completely, but one thought seems clear and lucid among the tempest of emotions cycloning inside her. "If you're so bad... mmm... then why do you feel so good?" she half sobs, making Kouga chuckle.

"Because that's the part of you that craves the big, bad wolf," he growls, teasing her with a shallow thrust she eagerly responds to.

"Mmm, please, Kouga," it's all she can say with the fires burning inside her, threatening to melt her brain. It seems to be enough as Kouga starts to thrust inside her again, taking the edge off her need, but they're slow and shallow, making her feel twitchy and desperate.

"But, what about my gift?" he teases her, knowing he's already got the one he wants; his woman squirming and writhing in his arms, needing him to make her feel oh, so good. Fortunately, he is oh, so ready to do just that. "You trying to trick me out of it?" He thrusts in and out of her, making her gasp as he starts an erratic rhythm, one Kagome's shifting hips attempts to control.

"Oh, Kouga, please don't tease," she pushes her hips hard against him, but her wolf is so stubborn, and she's way too horny and needy to wait any longer. "Mmm, I'll even," gods, she's so desperate, so crazed, "I'll even give you something before we leave if you'll just..." she dips her head, clamping her teeth against his neck, just below his jaw, making Kouga curse loudly as the growl in his chest revs louder.

"Fucking hell," when Kagome bites him, Kouga's dick throbs so hard he's almost afraid he's going to come. "Gods woman, just look how fucking ready you are for me," he growls low and deep. Oh yeah, that little stunt is gonna cost her later. Quickening the pace of his fingers inside her, he pushes harder, deeper, rubbing up against that wall of hers. Kagome's breaths come fast and heavy as she leans back, her gorgeous breasts glistening with droplets of water and sweat that tease and entice his tongue.

"Guess I was right," Kouga rumbles, looking up into the lust-hazed face of his woman with awe and a little wonder, "looks like it's the big, bad wolf in me you can't resist, after all," he grins cockily, plucking at her nipple with exactly the right amount of pressure. The keen Kagome makes tightens something low in his abdomen, her thighs clamping hard around him in response as she lets out a deep, dick-hardening moan.

"I'll take that as a yes," Kouga growls, loving the feel of her hands moving over his back, tugging on his hair and making him grunt as she tries to pull him closer, and then he's kissing her, touching her, grinding against her. The waters splash all around them as she continues to ride his hands, her cries pitching higher, her breaths coming faster, shorter.

Heat burns up every inch of Kagome's skin that feels way too tight stretched over her body, stretched so taught you can use her ass for a snare drum as far as she's concerned. "Faak! I... I can't..." she pants through her heavy breaths, desperate, aching for relief, "mmm, oh, Kouga... it feels..." desperate for just about anything, "godss, I ahh just... mmm."

"Fuck, I love how you scream for me, Kags," Kouga rumbles at her ear. "I love hearing how crazed you get," he licks the shell of her ear, feeling her tremble, before plunging a third finger deep inside her, obliterating the last of her senses. Her head tips back as she cries out, the sound blasting off heat in his loins that wants nothing more than to be hammering deep inside his woman's succulent center.

"I wanna hear more." The dark, rich timbre of his voice nearly makes her come as Kagome's back arches, her body strung so tight and so turned on she can barely breathe as pressure pounds at her skull and her body continues to burn hotter and brighter, stealing all her oxygen with it. She chases after the rush of energy, desperate to reach the summit.

"Ohh, mmm, p-please," she gasps, needing Kouga to save her, because she's about to die, her body overloading on too many sensations pinging around inside her with nowhere to go, nowhere to burn. She feels the pad of his thumb stroke over her clit, zapping her with painful pleasure on every pass again and again. When her vision starts to edge in white, Kagome knows the end is quite possibly near.

"Think you can do that for me, baby?" He rumbles low and hot at her ear and something in the sound sets off a warning as her body tightens, her skin pulling tighter and tighter. She barely manages to moan his name when the pitch of his voice drops lower, a sound she feels in the pit of her belly.

"Show me how ready this greedy little pussy of yours is to come all over my fingers before I have you coming all over this cock." The heat of Kouga's sinful words scorches Kagome's whole world as the storm inside her finally breaks, her climax ripping through her as hard and true as a jolt of lightning burning up the sky, and she's coming, coming, coming. All her pleasure, all her pain, all her bliss, clustering inside her in a single, glorious focused point that draws out a single, howling moan from her parted lips as she dives off the mountaintop.

"Gods I love that fucking sound," Kouga rumbles, riding his woman through the waves of her orgasm, slowing the strokes at her core until he's pulling his hands free. Sucking the fingers deep into his mouth, he savors the incredible taste, but not nearly as much as he savors watching the euphoric haze that flushes bright on his woman's face. He watches as awareness slowly comes back to her and she opens those lust-hazed eyes at him that glow a bright pink, stealing every breath in his lungs, "So beautiful," he mumbles under his breath.

Kagome's lazy smile brightens at Kouga's mumbled words, words she hears easily now. She can't explain it, but she feels good. Really good. Well, maybe she can explain it a little, but it's something more than the mind-altering orgasm that's just obliterated her whole world. The tip of Kouga's cock protrudes from the water, thick and heavy, its mushroom tip swollen nearly purple with his desire. His desire for her. Kagome licks her lips, a need burning awake inside her now that some of her senses are returning. She knows they don't have a lot of time, she also knows that she's not ready to do that quite again, still recovering from last time, but she also can't deny the thrill and enjoyment she feels whenever she has her lips wrapped around him, knowing she's giving Kouga something that's all about his pleasure, the way he's always taking care of hers. And after all, she did promise him a little something before they left.

"Kagome?" Kouga barely breathes when he sees the look of deep hunger that comes into his woman's eyes or the way she licks her lips, eyeing his cock like a wolf seeking its bone, and in this case, his little human she-wolf has definitely found hers. "See something you want?" he teases, only partially serious.

"Maybe."

She doesn't even look at him when she answers, her hunters gaze focused on the swollen purple head protruding the waters surface between them, and it's the hottest fucking thing he's ever seen. Kagome slips off his lap, lowering herself deeper into the water, and Kouga finds himself instinctively nudging himself backwards as he reads the intentions in her eyes even if he doesn't really believe it yet. The constructed shape of the bathing pool's sloping sides means he can sit higher up, intentionally revealing more of his upper body, and more importantly, his cock to his woman's hungry gaze. It seems to rise up out of the water of its own accord the moment Kagome's head drops down between his thighs, then everything inside him freezes, some part of his brain not seriously thinking she'll actually follow through, especially not after last time.

"Kags, baby, you don-" then those plump lips of hers lock around him, hitting him like a thunderclap as they wrap tight around the flared head of his dick. When her slender hands grip him round his base hard and firm and the wet heat of her mouth slides down his shaft, the whole fucking world explodes into stars. Threading his hand into her hair, he grabs at the base of Kagome's skull, clenching his fist. She makes a desperate sound at the back of her throat and doubt seizes him. "You okay?" not wanting to choke her, at least, not until she's ready.

Kagome nods, not feeling any of the hesitation she'd expected. The hum of her orgasm still fizzes in her blood, emboldening her actions as she takes Kouga's thick cock into her mouth. Besides, it's just for a few licks, just to get used to him, she tells herself, hollowing out her cheeks as she moves slowly up and down his shaft, continuing to work him with her mouth. Her tongue moves against the underside of his dick, low at the base, and he makes a dark, grunting sound at the back of his throat, telling her just how much he loves that. Tracing the ridges and thick veins of his shaft that she's starting to get to know rather well, she licks all the way to his tip before swallowing him deep again.

"Fuck, Kags," Kouga growls with pleasure as his fingers knot in her hair, still unable to believe the incredible sight before him. He stares into her eyes as he thrusts shallowly, dragging his cock in and out from between those plump lips of hers, urging her slick mouth farther down his shaft until he's butting against the back of Kagome's throat, forcing himself in before she's quite ready. She gags around him but adjusts quickly, her thighs grind together as she moans impossibly around his length, letting him slip further in.

"Fuck, that's it, baby," Kouga groans, pulling himself wetly from her mouth before thrusting gently back down, testing just how far he can push her. The waters around them splash with their efforts, but as far as Kouga's concerned, it's music to his fucking ears. "Gods, I love how you swallow my cock, Kagome," he pushes deeper into her throat and her cheeks hollow as she sucks him down. He groans heavily, his pleasure making her feel achey and needy in other places. "You're so fucking gorgeous like this," Kouga grunts, his pace moving a little faster, his bumps to her throat hitting just a little bit harder. "Nggh... with your lips wrapped hnn... around me."

Gods, what is about Kouga's filthy words as he loses control, his thrusts starting to get more and more crazed that makes her feel so powerful? So sexy? Kagome hums around his length and his growl deepens along with his grip in her hair, the ache growing between her thighs swelling with every thrust into her mouth. The more she feels him pumping deep, the more she aches to have him pumping into other parts of her. She takes a deep swallow just as Kouga's dick hits the back of her throat and he hisses under his breath.

"Fucking hell," he growls above her, jerking himself free as he slips from her mouth.

Kagome has no idea what's happening when she feels Kouga pull completely from between her lips. Tugging her up by the roots of her hair, he makes her eyes water and her pussy spasm. "Kou-?" His eyes blaze down at her, red and crazed, flames erupt over her skin as the grip in her hair tightens.

"Bend over. Now," he growls at her. The waters splash loudly in his woman's haste to spin around, not needing to be told twice as Kouga releases his grip from her hair. He'd been willing to give her some control and let her ride him, up until she'd deep-throated his cock that is. Now, gripping his dick hard, he nudges Kagome up against the side of the pool, burying himself between the round globes of her ass that tease him mercilessly. Now it's time for his cock to deep throat that pussy.

"What an incredible fucking sight you make," Kouga growls, pushing on the back of her head until she's splayed over the edge of the pool, presenting her soaked pussy to his hungry gaze. He runs one hand down her spine, feeling the touch of her soft skin, while the other grabs hold of himself as he positions his painfully hard cock at her entrance, ready to take her and drown her in ecstasy just for being so incredibly fucking delicious, because kami, he can't believe just how much he's addicted to the taste of her. How strong the desire in him to lock her away from the rest of the world and spend the rest of his days worshipping her body, making her scream. Knotting his hands in her hair again, the other holds firm to Kagome's hips as Kouga slams forward, the wide head of his cock pushing deep into her tight pussy in a single, glorious thrust.

"Fuuck!" He doesn't even give her a moment to adjust to his intrusion before he's slamming into her, again and again, but she's so wet and ready that she takes him in deep, her body instantly responding to his aggressive thrusts.

"Faa! Aaah!" Kagome cries out the moment Kouga's impaling her from behind, fucking her hard and furiously, and it's the most incredible fucking thing she's ever felt in her life! His raw, savage thrusts pull at something deep and primal inside her as she pushes back with her hips, meeting his crazed and hungry slams, needing to feel him just as deep, needing to come just as hard.

"Fuck, Kagome, that was amazing, koi," bending over her back, Kouga's hips thrust against her luscious ass with ever hard pump, "but I wanna come inside you," he grunts, sliding in and out of her soaked heat with a rhythm growing in need and desperation. "Fuck, but you're so wet," he grunts, his hand moving beneath her to stroke at her clit, she's so sensitive she cries out at his slightest touch. "You liked having my cock down your throat, didn't you?" he grunts, giving it to her hard.

"Ahaa... Yess," Kagome groans, aching to come and unable to deny the truth, realizing that she rather enjoys the control it gives her, if even for just a moment. At her words, Kouga buries himself so deep inside her she's sure he's battering at the gates of her soul. The loud slaps of their skin connecting echoes in her ears, mixing with the sounds of their combined pants and groans, making her hotter, hornier.

"Gods, you make me so fucking hot I'm not going to last, Kags," Kouga growls, his lips pulling back to reveal the flash of canines. "Squeeze me with that pussy of yours, baby," he rumbles, taking several rapid thrusts against her ass that has her back bending and her cries pitching higher. "Show me how good I make you feel." His hips shift as he pulls back on her hair, he draws nearly all the way out of her, almost slipping free before slamming back home. "Show me," he growls, loving the fucking feel of her slick juices coating his cock as they drip down his thigh. He draws out again, just as far as before and then he's driving back deep, over and over, as Kagome cries out, her back arching as she takes his frenzied slams. "Come on this fucking cock," he growls just as teeth break the skin over her mark and liquid heat rushes into his mouth.

The moment Kouga's teeth clamp down at the base of her neck, everything Kagome's feeling shoots straight out of the stratosphere. Fire sweeps through her body, curling her toes as everything inside her clenches, squeezing her much too tight before everything in her body unfurls, blasting outwards on a pulse of light and heat. Her head falls back as white flames blast through Kagome's body, dragging from her a stream of half finished curses and broken sobs as she's drowned in a sea of ecstasy that has no qualms about dragging her under, over and over again, leaving her gasping for breath and her body a shaking, quivering mess.

Kouga's ears ring with the power of Kagome's cry as her insides squeeze him tight and he follows after her, diving off the mountain top. With a roar of release, he shoots his load deep insider her, filling her up as she spasms around him, wringing him dry in her tight, vice-like hold. One coherent thought rings through the Alpha's head as his woman comes undone beneath him with the last of his seed pumping deep inside her and his teeth buried in her neck.

Best. Fucking. Dive. Ever.

-ooOooOooOoo-

The Sun is less than an hour from setting when InuYasha comes through the Well. With the waning light of day, all the many colorful lanterns and ribbons hung throughout the village glow brightly, making even the hanyou pause to appreciate the beauty; such a stark contrast to what it had been just a few nights ago.

Soft sounds of music sway on the wind; lutes, mandolins, and drums that pulse with energy, drawing him towards the main hall and the gathering crowd where he's still a little surprised by the number of youkai and humans moving about as if it's the most natural thing in the world. They cover the centre of the town in a sea of limbs and fur while the air rings with the ruckus of laughter and easy conversation. Their numbers being much too great for the new hall, plenty of extra fires and tables laden with food are set up outside to accommodate the over flow, and the hall's large, barn-like doors are thrown wide open, allowing for those outside to still feel a part of everything going on inside.

InuYasha pauses in his steps to take a deep breath, the sight unexpectedly rattling him. How many times as a child, running and hiding after his mother had died, struggling to survive the cruelty of the world, had he dared to imagine such a place? Such a moment? To see humans and youkai, side by side, without the need for bloodshed or mistrust. To finally feel like just maybe he belonged somewhere.

Born to both and accepted by none. It's a reality InuYasha had been forced to accept early in life, his experiences teaching him that it could never be any other way. How could it? The hatred and rejection that followed him all his life simply because of how he had been born, just for being different, had been proven in all the blood he'd shed in defense of his own life, for simply deigning to exist. A silvery head gives a little shake and velvety ears twitch. That is, until he'd met her. Kagome.

Dark honeyed eyes sweep over the crowds and a low sound grunts hard at the back of InuYasha's throat, thick and full of all the emotion he can't express, doesn't know how, only that for the first time in many, many years, the future doesn't feel quite so bleak or quite so lonely.

"InuYasha!" A familiar voice calls out, pulling the hanyou back from his thoughts. Quickly mastering his emotions, he turns to greet the new arrival, his face the perfect mask of calm indifference.

"'Sup, Monk?" InuYasha tips his head in greeting, making Miroku grin wider with his future slang. Hanging out with Souta for too long tended to rub off on him.

"I wondered when you'd be back," Miroku smiles broadly, he would have been concerned earlier about the fact that the hanyou hadn't returned from the other side of the Well when Kouga had, if not for Kagome's clearly happy and unaffected manner. Confirming for the monk that wherever he was, InuYasha was still alive.

"Keh, someone's gotta make sure all that food doesn't go to waste," his lips smack together and a hand rubs eagerly at his belly. Mrs. H's noodles are fantastic, but even with the big helping she'd given him, InuYasha knows he'll be more than capable of trying a little bit of everything.

"Ah, yes, I myself have my eye on sampling a variety of the . . ." a group of prettily clad youkai and human females walk past them and Miroku eyes them appreciatively, a string of soft laughter escaping the ladies when they notice his favorable gaze. ". . . sweet buns," he rumbles with a lick of lips, watching intently as the ladies make their way into the hall, whispering and giggling amongst themselves,

InuYasha snorts, shaking his head at his perverted friend. "Let's hope your sampling doesn't give you a bad case of indigestion later," he smirks, nodding in the direction of a familiar demon slayer in the distance that makes her slow way through the crowds of people, both men knowing exactly how capable said woman is at inflicting her own brand of indigestion.

Miroku grins, a hand scratching a little nervously at the back of his neck. "Perhaps you're right, InuYasha. Too much . . . sampling gives me heartburn anyways," he says in his most serious tone, making the hanyou beside him grunt with laughter. "But, perhaps you wouldn't mind trying a few new dishes tonight," Miroku adds with an unusual inflection to his voice that the hanyou notices immediately.

"What are you -" InuYasha swallows when his eyes fall on the person that emerges from just behind Sango when the crowds momentarily thin. Miroku's shapely brow arches high at the hanyou's uncharacteristic silence, more than pleased at the reaction his teasing has revealed.

"They say that if you don't like a particular dish the first time, to give it a second chance," he grins, watching as InuYasha's ears fold forward, his gaze and attention fixed on Sango and Rosario who draw slowly closer, having yet to notice them. "Of course," Miroku rubs his chin thoughtfully, "I'm not sure how that works if it's the dish that hates you." He restrains a bite of laughter at the hanyou's twitching ears, no doubt trying to make sense of his reply.

"Why, you! What the hell is that supposed to mean?" InuYasha growls, spinning to turn on the monk, when realization begins to dawn. "She . . . She doesn't hate me," the gruffness leaves his voice at his own uncertainty. "D-Does she?"

"Of course not," Miroku reassures, patting the hanyou on the back, letting him know he's just teasing him. "After all, who could resist your charm?"

InuYasha's eyes widen then narrow, a low growl hums hot in his throat. "You're starting to sound a lot like that mangy wolf, Monk," his reply causing Miroku's head to tip back as he chortles with laughter. "And I'm liable to give you the same face and fist treatment I do him if you don't start shoving it," he growls low, his tone completely serious, but Miroku's laughter only rings louder, completely not giving a damn.

Sango's eyes dart in the direction of the familiar deep laughter that pierces through the boisterous crowd, ringing loud and clear in her ears as if she'd been secretly searching for it. A voice she'd recognize anywhere. Miroku.

Her heart does a little dizzy spin in her chest that leaves her short of breath as she watches him speak with InuYasha in the distance. It's hard not to notice his handsome features and that easy smile of his that often leaves her blushing and her belly tingling with warmth. A sensation he inspires in nearly all women she realizes, but Sango knows that's not Miroku's true power. Heat burns on the apples of her cheeks as she thinks on the monk's secret weapon, that little twinkle in his eye he saves just for her, the one that comes out when he looks at her. That twinkle that sees right through her, into her, and outside of her, completely undoing all her defences. The warrior in her rebels at the thought, but the woman in her wants nothing more than to surrender.

"Oh, a-ah," Rosario's hesitant voice breaks through Sango's very distracting thoughts when the she-wolf abruptly stops and spins in place, turning her back on the men in the distance. She feels her heart start to race along with her mind, her breaths coming shorter. She thinks on what Sango had told her earlier about how InuYasha himself had asked after her, wanting to know what was the matter with her. She'd also said that she'd told him the truth. Rosario takes a deep breath, she's not angry at the slayer for her honesty, quite the opposite in fact, but somehow, her knowing that he knows that she knows what he's said about her, and knowing he knows why she's been so short with him, not only makes facing him so much harder, but it's starting to give her a headache too.

"I-I think I should . . . I mean, I ah, I forgot to . . . " Rosario's eyes dart around her frantically, desperate for a way out. She just can't be around InuYasha right now. Every time she sees him, she remembers his disdain, his hurtful words. Words that had cut and drawn much blood. Sango's eyes catch on hers, but no judgment comes from the slayer, only patience and understanding. Taking a deep breath, Rosario stands taller, refusing to let her emotions or her fear get the better of her. She gives Sango a firm nod who smiles back encouragingly, a silent understanding passing between them as both women turn and continue on their original path.

As the fates will have it, notorious for their impeccable timing, the moment the she-wolf spins around in a bid to flee, is the same moment both the hanyou and the monk look up. InuYasha grunts under his breath at the quick turn Rosario makes, but it's Miroku's quiet chuckle next to him that irritates him to no end. It's hard not to notice the steel form in the she-wolf's spine with his enhanced vision, stirring a distressed emotion inside him he can't quite name, but at least now he understands why she's been so curt with him. As he watches her, InuYasha's curiosity piques as to what she'll do next. Will she really take off, not wanting to even see him?

Does she really hate me that much? The thought leaves a hollow feeling in his stomach and a bad taste at the back of his mouth. Suddenly, the forthcoming feasting doesn't seem nearly as appetizing as it had before. It's why InuYasha's so surprised when instead of taking off to avoid him, as he'd been pretty sure she would do, Rosario's spine straightens and her shoulders roll back, almost as if she were preparing herself for battle, before turning and continuing back towards the Hall.

Her demeanour seems cool and unaffected as she makes her way through the crowds with Sango at her side, but even if InuYasha hadn't caught her earlier stunt, all the small movements of her body as she makes her way towards them, screams Rosario's distress as bright as any Sun at having to see him. To be near him. To talk with him. It's a realization that feels like a powerful kick to his nuts.

"My dearest, Sango," Miroku's smile flashes suggestively on the approaching woman that had long ago stolen his wanton heart. He savors the sight of her, his gaze moving slowly over the curves of her body he's memorized so well. A soft pink kimono embroidered with blue and purple blossoms envelops her sinful body and a cream colored obi highlights her perfect waist. The material clings exquisitely to her curvaceous form, accenting all her right places.

"You, ah," Miroku feels the saliva dry from his mouth as he tries to work proper mobility back into his jaw. He loves the way her lustrous, dark hair falls around her face when she lets it down, the shiny tresses framing the lovely angles of her face perfectly. He can smell a soft, sweet floral fragrance coming off her. No doubt she's used some of Kagome's wonderful future womanly products, items that continue to surprise and amaze him, but it's the decorative amethyst hair clip in the shape of a butterfly that Sango wears near her temple that stirs powerful emotions in him. He loves how it enhances the glow and shade of her striking eyes, it suits her perfectly, and he should know, he'd gifted it to her on her birthday two years ago. So overwhelmed by the token, Sango had almost not accepted it, not until he'd told her how stunning he thought it looked on her. She had made a point to wear it to every celebration since.

"You are indeed the loveliest flower I have ever seen," Miroku smiles, stepping towards her and bowing deep to take her hand. He raises it to his lips, kissing the back of her knuckles and drawing out the most delightful burn of red on her cheeks. "Very lovely," he rumbles under his breath.

"T-Thank you, Miroku." Sango tries to pull her hand back, not trusting the monk or the heat that still lingers inside her from the innocent kiss, but he only holds onto her fingers tighter, the corner of his mouth twitching with a smile. "May I escort you inside?" he asks, giving her a mischievous look as his gaze darts away for a moment.

Sango follows Miroku's quick glance, observing InuYasha and Rosario exchanging uncomfortable nods of acknowledgement with each other and then looking away, each unwilling or too nervous to speak. Her eyes widen in understanding, her own mouth twitching with a repressed smile.

"Why, yes, Miroku, thank you," she bows back, clasping his offered hand more confidently as they turn towards the hall where villagers and demons continue to mingle about, picking their places or talking casually, everyone sensing that the feasting will soon begin.

Rosario gives Sango a panicked glare, screaming at her with her eyes. "I shall come with you," she quickly interjects, doing her best to keep from shouting as her nerves begin to get the better of her. I am unaffected in his presence, she reminds herself, only wishing she believed it more.

"Actually, Rosario," Sango reaches for the first thing she can think of, "Kouga and Kagome haven't arrived yet, why don't you and InuYasha wait for them?" her mouth twitches, holding back a tiny smile, "I'm sure they'd like that."

Rosario keeps her head averted from the hanyou so she can glare coldly at the demon slayer, her so called human friend, who only gives her an encouraging nod and a little grin that as far as the she-wolf is concerned, can give lessons on evil. Before she can think of a reason as to why the suggestion is a truly horrendous one without giving away how weak she really is, Sango and Miroku are already disappearing among the swell of people.

If he could do it without anyone finding out, InuYasha would already be dropping Miroku's unconscious body in a ditch somewhere for his sneaky little maneuver. He doesn't have to see Rosario's expression to know that she'd rather be anywhere but there, with him. Not that he can really blame her. He shakes his head. Maybe the stupid wolf is right, maybe he is fucked. Releasing a long, low breath, InuYasha does his best to let go of the knot in his stomach. Here goes nothing.

"Uh . . . H-Hey, Rosario," he stutters nervously, wanting to kick himself for his unsteady tone. No problem, he's just a little off his game. He did play a lot of them with Souta after all, so, he's probably just tired. Gripping the back of his neck nervously, InuYasha tries again. "H-How ya doing?" He feels himself flinch at his own words, his eyes squeezing shut. Kami, can he sound anymore fucking lame?!

Rosario's not exactly sure what to think when the usually confident and unapologetic hanyou before her attempts to greet her, tripping over his words with an agitation she's never seen from him before. Is she so unappealing to be around that he can barely say hello to her? Can barely stand to be in her presence? The thought is a painful one, one that makes the wolf in Rosario's chest give out an unpleasant moan.

"I am well," she answers coolly in a masked attempt to cover her hurt. "Thank you," she tags on at the end a little hesitantly. No need to be rude just because he doesn't like her.

"Good," InuYasha quips back quickly, his head bobbing with his words, "Good to ah, good to hear." Someone kill me, now! Seriously, what the hell is his fucking problem?! Why can't he seem to get out the words he actually wants to say? Did that stupid wolf slip him something when he wasn't looking?! He takes some comfort in knowing they'll never find his body if he has.

Rosario's gaze narrows on the hanyou, wondering if he's going to say anything else. She knows wishing that he'll apologize for hurting her feelings is ridiculous, but a part of her had still hoped. They may have known each other only a short time, but all the stories Kagome had shared with her about the loyal and courageous dog demon before her had found new light in her eyes once she'd finally met him.

It's harder still not to remember how well a team they'd made when they'd fought together, bled in battle together, or all the conversations they'd shared during the days when both Kouga and Kagome were on the other side of the Well. Memories play through Rosario's mind, rarely has she felt so comfortable among others not of her own tribe, the easy camaraderie surprising her immensely, especially from the outspoken hanyou.

START**zoom**FLASH**zoom**BACK**zoom**START

A low burning campfire outside Kaede's hut illuminates the dark surroundings in a soft glow, casting a partial light on the mix of humans, wolves, and youkai gathered about. Speaking in low voices, they attempt to relax after a long day of waiting and talking. Lots and lots of talking. With Kouga having followed Kagome through the bone eaters Well late last night, much speculation has been cast about all day as to why exactly Kouga had crossed time, especially when Kagome had made it clear after their very public and heated argument that she wanted to be left alone. The fire in their midst crackles and hisses as it eats away at the charring wood, it's blistering heat far more comfortable to endure than the sour, angry mood of a particular hanyou.

"Come now, InuYasha," Miroku maintains his patient tone as he leans back next to Sango and against a transformed Kirara who slumbers lightly with her large head perched on the slayer's lap, a snoring Shippou is held between them. With the sudden increase of wolves and youkai roaming the forests, the firecat has taken to being in her larger form more often, he's noticed. Miroku holds back a chuckle, thinking on the old adage about cats and dogs. He knows it's just a matter of time before Kirara feels comfortable enough to remain in her weaker form among so many canines, but in the meantime, she does make for an excellent place to sleep, especially since he gets to be so close to his beloved Sango.

"You don't really believe that," but Miroku's gaze is already shifting to the figure beside him, his pupils dilating as he observes the curve of those delectable hips positioned so close to his. "Do you?" he mumbles distractedly.

"Keh, you honestly saying you think I'm wrong?" InuYasha glares hard at the monk whose attention is already wandering. It only proves his point, all of them knowing damn well why exactly Kouga crossed the Well. The fact that the stupid wolf actually got through pisses him off a lot more than he thought it would, especially since he knows what will happen now. Somehow, Kouga will find a way to beg Kagome's forgiveness, she'll take him back because her heart is bigger than her head, and then . . . then he loses everything.

"InuYasha, really," Sango is careful of Shippou's sleeping form nestled against her as she scratches and pets at Kirara's large, soft ears, sensing that her feline companion needs the extra reassurance at the moment, it's why she doesn't notice the monks nearing palm next to her. "Kagome isn't like that even if that was Kouga's intention," she tries to defend, earning her a disgruntled, "Keh," from the hanyou in response.

Rosario listens to the conversations around her with great interest and great sympathy, wanting very much to reassure her new sister's family. "If I may say something?" she asks the group.

"Why not? Seems like we're taking in all kinds these days," InuYasha rumbles under his breath, earning him a loud reprimand from Sango and chortles of laughter from the northern twins seated nearby who have been watching the days proceedings of arguments with much amusement.

"Ignore him," the slayer Sango smiles reassuringly. "Of course, Rosario, speak," she urges gently.

The she-wolf smiles in gratitude, taking no offence at the hanyou's attitude, understanding his true feelings and what hurt fuels his words only too well. She's also overheard him relaying his grievances about the wolf lord using very loud, aggressive, and colorful language, all day.

"I realize that I do not know sister Kagome nearly as well as any of you, but there is something, well, something special about her. Something more than her ability to cross time. I don't know how to explain it," Rosario pauses, attempting to find the right words. "She . . . She makes me feel good when I am around her, almost hopeful and positive in a way that I can not explain," at this, many silent nods and hums of agreement rumble around the fire, pleasing the she-wolf, knowing she's not alone in her assessment of the strange, young miko and the humbling power of how effortlessly she loves, well, everyone and everything.

"I care about her and what happens to her, a great deal, just as you all do," Rosario adds with earnest, needing Kagome's packmates to hear the sincerity in her words. The slayer Sango gives her a heartfelt smile, reassuring the she-wolf that the humans understand her sentiment. "After all, she is now a part of the wolf-demon tribe," she adds, wanting the humans to understand that the wolves will fight to the death to protect Kagome, just like any member of their pack.

"Kagome is also a part of our family," Sango affirms while Miroku nods his agreement. Even Shippou mumbles something under his breath before quieting again, and Kirara makes a low mewling sound in her sleep that has all the wolf demons around the fire grinning with pleasure.

"Which means, we'll mess up anyone who messes with her," InuYasha grunts, his tone implying so much more bloodshed than his words suggest.

"As it should be," Rosario nods in turn, "it is the same for wolves," protection of family and pack coming above all else. She takes a moment to consider her words, "I also know that Lord Kouga's reputation is . . ." she pauses, watching as Hakkaku and Ginta shift nervously from where they are standing around the perimeter of the fire, " . . . well earned," Rosario says, earning her a mix of grunts and smirks.

"Keh," InuYasha snorts sarcastically. "Great PG13 way to put it," he says, making Sango and Miroku grin with suppressed laughter, understanding his meaning.

"'PG' what?" Rosario asks, confused by the word. She's surprised by how many strange new ones she's learned on her journey.

"Ah, nothing, never mind," InuYasha answers, not really in the mood to be delving into Kouga's dark and questionable past or the reputation he's earned, one packed full of sordid, sexual exploits, merciless fighting tactics, and a trail of bodies dripping of death and betrayal for a reason. It's why he's tried so hard to keep the wolf at bay, at least, it's one of the more believable reasons. However, even InuYasha has to grudgingly admit that the wolf really does seem to have changed his legendary and historic ways, and as much as he'd love nothing more than to show Kagome just what that history had entailed, he can't hurt her like that. He won't. "Let's just say, the rest of us here are aware of Kouga's . . . past."

This seems to be enough for the she-wolf who nods in acceptance. "Then you must also be aware that there can be no doubting Lord Kouga's loyalty," Rosario adds. Complete silence follows her statement, reaffirming the unspoken words; whatever else he may have been in the past, Kouga is still a wolf first and foremost.

"Keh. So the flea-bag has one or two redeeming qualities, should we give him a fucking medal or something?" InuYasha grunts, crossing arms into the wide sleeves of his haori and turning his face away. "Doesn't mean he fucking deserves her and it never will." An awkward silence follows the outburst, the humans around the fire understanding their friend's heartache.

Rosario nods at this, allowing the hanyou's hurt and anger to slide off her, knowing it's not at her his ire is truly aimed at. "What I believe I am trying to say and most poorly, is that you need not worry about Lord Kouga's intentions towards sister Kagome," she holds the gazes of the humans around her, showing them her sincerity. "I have known him many years and have never seen him like this before. I believe that Lord Kouga loves sister Kagome as deeply and truly as I have ever seen someone love another." More than anything she wants to reassure her new sister's packmates that the wolf lord chasing their friend's heart remains a wolf, and wolves mate for life.

"For us wolves, almost as important and bred into the bone as loyalty," Rosario continues, her voice rising with earnestness, "is the desire to please one's mate. To see them happy." She watches the faces of the humans carefully, hoping they'll understand, "And the deeper a wolf loves, the deeper the need to please," she clarifies, enjoying the light that suddenly burns bright in their eyes as comprehension dawns.

"But, Kouga has been crazy in love with Kagome for years," Sango answers, awe clear in her voice as she thinks on the meaning of those words; the deeper a wolf loves, the deeper his need to please the object of that love.

"You're half right at least," InuYasha grumbles under his breath, unable to deny the statement, "the wolf is crazy." Soft laughter ripples around the fire.

Rosario grins at the hanyou's demeanour, an affect the others around her share as friendly chuckling continues to hum around the campfire, easing the tense energies in the air. It's an interesting tactic, she notes, using humor to deflect unwanted emotions and conversations, filing this info about him away.

"Perhaps, InuYasha," Miroku grins, pretending to readjust his very comfortable position as he leans closer to a preoccupied Sango, "but I think we can all agree that Kouga will go to any lengths to make Kagome happy, and isn't that what her friends want for her?" He knows this is hard for the hanyou, but the sooner he can make peace with himself and his situation, the better off they'll all be.

"Whatever," InuYasha grunts in reply. "You guys believe whatever the hell you want. Your pissing me off is exhausting me anyways," he grumbles, getting up from the fire and dusting himself off. "I'm gonna go find somewhere to crash," he answers, turning to walk away without giving them a chance to respond. "'Later," InuYasha calls out, giving a wave over his shoulder. The sound of a woman's shriek and a familiar slap ringing through the night is his only reply, making him smirk for some reason. He's so distracted by his thoughts that he doesn't notice the footsteps following him at first.

"You got some more cheerleading to do on Kouga's behalf?" he asks over his shoulder and pausing in his steps. "'Cause if you do, I'm not interested," InuYasha gruffs, keeping his back turned.

Rosario steps closer, coming into a patch of moon light on the well worn path just as the hanyou turns to face her. "'Cheerleading?'" she repeats the strange phrase. "You do use some unusual words, just like sister Kagome," she says, head and two-toned bangs tilting to the side. "Is this how all humans speak?"

"Uh, no, not all humans," InuYasha answers in a clearly distracted tone. "Just . . . Just Kagome."

"I understand," Rosario nods, having experienced similar with the miko. She's silent for several moments, not really sure how to begin.

"Uh, Rosario, right?" InuYasha starts when she doesn't say anything. "Look, I can see that you've got something on your mind -"

"Really? What makes you say that?" she asks, curious and even a little amused at the hanyou's direct and candid manner. It's not something she has often found outside of her own kind, most other races - including humans - preferring to speak in hidden, round-about-ways that attempt to conceal their true intentions.

"Keh, 'cause I'm a fucking psychic," InuYasha grunts, making the she-wolf laugh. Something in the sound is far more appealing to hear than he'd expected, the realization making him feel suddenly uncomfortable. "Look, Rosario, no offence, but the sooner we get done with whatever the hell this is," he points between the two of them, indicating their pending conversation, "the sooner I can go and knock myself unconscious somewhere," his tone and expression giving away his totally serious intent. Something about being in a blackout stupor, unable to think about anything that's happened the last few days, sounds incredibly fucking appealing. "So, just say whatever it is you're itching to say," InuYasha gruffs, crossing his arms stubbornly before him, "'cause oblivion awaits."

Rosario flushes, looking down and away, surprising herself at the clearly submissive gesture when the hanyou questions her motives outright, pushing his more dominating energy towards her. She can feel the wild spirit in her chest rumble with confusion as it shakes off the powerful influence of the dog's aura. Most men are much too intimidated by her to issue such challenges, never mind with such brazen authority. So, what is it about that confident, outspoken demeanor of his that seems to increase the rate of her heart? Mastering herself quickly, Rosario's gaze flickers back up, clasping onto the golden glow of tiny Suns that seem to be muddling her thoughts.

"I just wish to say that I do not blame you for not thinking very much of Lord Kouga," she says, ignoring the snort he makes and the answering curl it makes in her belly, "and to speak candidly, I've never been one of his, how did you put it?" Scrunching her nose, Rosario points her index finger to a spot on her chin that she taps gently as she thinks back on the word he'd used. "Cheerleader?" she asks, arching a brow at him in question. InuYasha gives a slow nod of his head, affirming she's gotten the word right. "It's very difficult to be someone's cheerleader when you dislike them as much as I have Lo – . . . as much as I have Kouga in the past," she adds, clearly surprising the hanyou.

"What?" InuYasha's gaze narrows hard on the she-wolf as he takes a step closer. There's something about her that is not at all what he'd been expecting, and what's with the way she taps her chin when she's thinking? Who even does that? The only thing that leaves him feeling more winded is the way her nose had scrunched up when she'd done it. "You? Don't like Kouga?" he doesn't even attempt to hold back the sarcastic snort in his voice.

Crossing her arms, Rosario's chin tips up in clear challenge, "What? You don't believe me?"

InuYasha pauses a moment to take a real look at her, his gaze casting up and down her toned and armored body as he scrutinizes the she-wolf before him. It's hard not to notice how beautiful she is, but there seems to be something more about her. A true warriors spirit he can sense from her, one that seems tempered with time and wisdom, the exact opposite of everything he's feeling just then.

"Look, you're obviously a friend of Kagome's and I don't want to ah . . ." he scratches at the back of his neck nervously, knowing he needs to tread carefully.

"Call me a liar?" Rosario smirks, the eyebrow crooked in his direction giving away her teasing.

"Me? Do that?" InuYasha chuckles, relieved when she doesn't take offence. "No way. I got better self preservation skills than that," he smirks, Rosario's answering laughter at his words somehow soothing the ache ripping through his heart the smallest bit.

"But it's true," Rosario answers, surprised at how quick and funny the hanyou seems to be. She hadn't been expecting that. "About Kouga I mean," she clarifies, refocusing her thoughts. "I've never cared for his temperament or his . . . ah, lifestyle," she says, giving the hanyou a knowing look from faintly dusted cheeks, "but you must know that Kouga, well, he was very hurt and very angry. For a long time."

Which of course, is putting it lightly. Every member of the wolf demon tribe across all of Edo knows of the falling out between the two princes that divided a kingdom. Equally known is that a woman had been the knife that had severed the tie between the two brothers. The exact details of what had really transpired are varied and numerous, the truth known only to a few. All truths but one – the woman had died. "But, I think meeting sister Kagome, I think it's healed something inside him, or at least, it's trying to."

InuYasha grunts hard at this, looking away. Yes, he's heard the stories, it's just another reason why he doesn't trust the wolf. When Kouga had first started sniffing around all those years ago, he'd made sure to learn everything he could about him. He'd been shocked to discover a number of rumours regarding the wolf demon, one in particular telling of a younger Kouga that centuries before had tried and failed to seduce either his brother's mate or soon-to-be mate, cementing all of InuYasha's fears.

Somehow, in a violent battle between the two brothers, this woman who had been loved by both men, had lost her life. Grief stricken, Kouga's older brother - the then new first Alpha of Edo - had nearly killed him in retaliation, blaming the younger brother for her death. Rumours tell that it had been for their mother's sake, already stricken with grief from losing her own mate some time before that the new first Alpha had spared Kouga's life, and instead had exiled him into the North, never permitting the banished wolf lord to return to his ancestral home or to his family. The story had struck InuYasha deep when he had heard it, it's possibly why he's tolerated the wolf as much as he has over the years; the reality of being cast out, the sensation of being unwanted, even by your own family, an all too familiar one for the hanyou.

"I apologize, InuYasha," Rosario bows in his direction, sensing the hanyou's shifting scent and not meaning to upset him. "Sister Kagome told me many incredible stories about you and the others during our travels here. I . . . I know you two are very close and that all of this is very difficult for you." She turns away, intending to leave him in peace when his nervous voice halts her.

"She . . . She did?" InuYasha can hear himself audibly gulp. "Kagome, she told you about me?" he asks, panic slowly rising in his tone. This can't be good.

"Indeed," Rosario smiles, turning to face him again. "Kagome has told me many wonderful tales about your bravery, courage, and your noble spirit," she says with earnest. No need to hash out stories of old undead lovers when it no longer matters.

"K-Kagome said all that?" Golden eyes round wide. "Are we talking about the same Kagome?" He doesn't even realize he's asked it out loud until the she-wolf laughs, her eyes lighting up a bright forest green.

Rosario nods, happy that she's been able to so clearly surprise him as he has her. "I know that you are very important to her. Sister Kagome said you are her best friend."

InuYasha can feel grief and love collide in his chest, winding him and cutting him, all at the same time. "She . . . She said that?" Kami, how is it even possible to feel such a sense of relief, knowing that just maybe Kagome still wants him in her life, and yet feel such a crushing finality over it as well? Still, when Rosario nods quietly at him, he's grateful to her for bringing him a tiny sliver of peace in his crumbling, chaotic world.

"Thanks, Rosario," he says.

"Of course," she answers, pleased to have been able to help in some way. "I shall not keep you any longer, InuYasha," she bows, bidding him farewell. "Enjoy crashing in your . . . tree," the corners of Rosario's mouth twitches in a smile, she's heard about that habit too.

InuYasha smirks at the clearly teasing remark, "You should try it sometime. Kagome says it's ergonomic."

"'Ergonomic?'" A single dark brow arches high into a patch of black and white bang.

"Yeah, it means it's good when you're on your back," he answers, his face flushing when he realizes what that sounds like. "I mean for, for your back," InuYasha quickly amends, making the she-wolf rumble with soft laughter at his little mishap. Normally he'd be irritated beyond measure, but when she smiles at him, for some reason, he doesn't feel so bad.

"Goodnight, InuYasha," Rosario tips her head in farewell, some part of her surprised at how easy and enjoyable it had been to talk with him. She turns back to make her way towards the fire, leaving the hanyou to his thoughts, her own certain of the friendship they're sure to form with time.

END**zoom**FLASH**zoom**BACK**zoom**END

The memory fades, stirring a pebble-sized lump in Rosario's throat as other thoughts quickly crowd in. It didn't seem to matter if they were talking, fighting, or eating around the fire with the others, it had all been so easy and natural between them, or so she had thought. She's been so wrong. When Rosario sees InuYasha shifting about nervously, not saying anything, she feels even worse, knowing that she's making him so uncomfortable.

"If you'll excuse me," she says in as neutral a tone as she can affect. Being so close to him, feeling the awkwardness between them, it's too much. "I believe I shall wait for sister Kagome inside." At least she can give him some space, she realizes, not wanting to force InuYasha to be in her presence when he clearly doesn't want to be. A realization that hurts a lot more than she'd expected. Tipping her head goodbye, Rosario turns towards the crowded hall.

"No, wait!" Lunging forward, InuYasha grips the she-wolf by the arm in a desperate act as he spins her back around. It doesn't matter if she hates him, he needs to say this, he needs to tell her! A shapely dark brow arches questioningly beneath two toned bangs as Rosario gazes down at the hand that is still gripping her. A touch that feels bitter sweet on her skin.

"S-Sorry about that," InuYasha mumbles under his breath as he releases her, ignoring the buzzing in his palm where he'd gripped her. "It's just . . ." Alright, he can do this. He can use proper words. He can apologize. Good thing he's had so much practice with Kagome over the years. "Ah . . . do you. I mean, w-what I want to ah, say . . . umm."

It's the work of the fucking kami, InuYasha realizes, feeling the truth of it deep in his bones. They've waited for the perfect moment in time to truly fuck with him and humiliate him for all the blatant hostility and disrespect he's shown them over the years.

Well played, he thinks to himself. Apparently vengeance is a dish best served cold.

"InuYasha!" A high-pitched and familiar voice calls out, both saving the hanyou from himself and making him wonder if just maybe, the kami might be bestowing a little forgiveness his way.

Velvety ears twitch on his head as they spin in the direction of the sound. In the distance, he can see Kagome running towards him, clad in the white furs she'd worn when she had first returned from her trek with Kouga. A bright smile dominates her face as she races toward him, followed by a number of forest wolves that bark and yip as they rush after the sprinting priestess, making for a most surreal sight. So much so that he only half registers the presence of a smirking Kouga that walks a little slower, a little farther behind her.

"Oh, InuYasha!" His arms open automatically as Kagome collides into his chest, knocking him back a step with a surprised, "Oompf," as she hugs him fiercely.

"Kagome?" His gaze drops down to the woman gripping him with a startling amount of strength. He doesn't understand what's gotten into her, but it doesn't stop InuYasha from wrapping his arms tight around her shoulders and hugging her back. The moment he does, Kagome's wolves growl angrily, baring their fangs at him and barking aggressively. He hears the threatening snarl Kouga makes that immediately halts their fierce posturing. Dropping their heads, the she-wolves whimper and whine softly as they move slowly backwards, standing down from their protective stance. InuYasha looks up to see how irritated Kouga is that he's got Kagome in his arms, but the wolf only smirks as he tips his head towards him, as if expressing gratitude to him for something, but . . . for what?

"How can I ever thank you, InuYasha?" Kagome whispers into his neck. She grips him tighter, her body trembling as she clings to him with all her new strength.

"I don't . . ?" InuYasha shakes his head, still not understanding.

Kagome's emotions begin to overwhelm her, to know that InuYasha loves her so much he'd been willing to give everything, even his own life, just to see her happy. "You risked everything so you could bring him back to me," she whispers hoarsely, it's a gift she will always be grateful for, a kindness she can never hope to repay.

At Kagome's muffled words, InuYasha knows. He finally understands. He closes his eyes, his body shivering just a fraction as he holds her tighter. Kouga told Kagome what he'd done in the forgotten mountains when he and the wolf were being tested, despite the wolf swearing he wouldn't. Secretly, InuYasha couldn't be happier.

"And I promise you I always will," he whispers just as gruffly and Kagome squeezes him harder, some part of their friendship healing, transforming into something new, something stronger. At the sound of her sniffles, InuYasha pulls back to hold her before him. "Hey now, none of that," he rumbles in a soft voice, giving her arms an affectionate squeeze. "We've got a party to get to, remember?" grinning wide enough to reveal short tipped fangs.

Kagome laughs as she nods at him, knowing the dog demon before her hates to be praised for anything. "You're right, InuYasha," but her expression and the glow of her eyes conveys so much more than a simple thank you can ever say. The stain to InuYasha's cheeks as he glances away, tells her he understands.

"Speaking of parties," Kouga adds as he steps forward, curling his arm low on Kagome's waist and tugging her closer to him. "It's about time you showed up to this one, dog face," he rumbles a little roughly in an effort to cover up the stir of emotion he'd felt at hearing what InuYasha had said to Kagome.

"And I promise you I always will."

"Keh, about time I showed up?" InuYasha barks, crossing arms over his chest. "I'm just grateful you two thought to bathe before coming down here." At his words, Kouga's chest puffs up, grinning wide enough to reveal rows of teeth, whereas Kagome blushes all the way to her toes, the whites of her furs making her stand out like a glowing neon rod.

"Rosario!" she exclaims, turning towards the smiling she-wolf, desperate to change the subject. "Come on, I'm starved," she steps out of Kouga's hold that doesn't try to stop her, looping her arm through Rosario's.

"Is that right, Sister?" Rosario grins cheekily, her discomfort of moments before forgotten in light of the powerful aura's radiating off the wolf lord and his mate. Though their scents have been cleansed of their mating, their energy still pulses with their mutual love and adoration, a most potent pheromone, and one that ensures the night to be a lively one.

"Mm-hmm," Kagome answers in response as she looks over her shoulder at Kouga who watches her intently, amusement etched all over his features. "I can't imagine why," she grins, giving him a saucy wink that brightens the blush on her face. A wink that does devastating things to Kouga's libido.

"Better eat your fill then," he growls low, desire for his woman spiking bright and hot. "You're gonna need your strength later."

Kagome can feel the bond between them pulse with their mutual desire, can feel the heat low in her belly start to burn under Kouga's intense gaze. "Promises, promises," she teases, enjoying her wolf's narrowing gaze a little too much. Before Kouga can respond with something that leaves her clean panties soaked, Kagome tugs on Rosario's arm, disappearing inside the hall with a muffled giggle, leaving behind her a grinning wolf and a head shaking hanyou.

"You two are animals, you know that?" InuYasha gruffs in an attempt to gloss over his own sense of awkwardness at the little lover's display.

Kouga grunts with laughter, his gaze shifting to the hanyou whose twitching ears give away his unease, not that he can blame him. He does try his best not to moon over Kagome in front of the dog, no need to rub salt in the wound after all, but something about his woman's smile and that little giggle of hers does something to his brain that cancels out everything else except her.

"Noticed, have ya?" Kouga smirks, revealing the points of sharp fangs.

It's hard for InuYasha not to roll his eyes or shake his head at the wolf's comment. "And that ain't all I've noticed," he counters, his gaze narrowing a fraction on the demon before him. "I thought wolves were supposed to be honor bound or some shit," he pushes, his meaning clear.

"Please," Kouga gruffs, knowing exactly what the dog is hinting at, "don't act like you're not thrilled I told her, puppy," making the hanyou growl at his very astute observation. "Besides," his tone softens, "you know I had to tell her." The weight of his broken promise to the dog still leaves a foul taste on Kouga's tongue, no matter how he'd rationalized it to himself.

"Keh, excuses, excuses," InuYasha waves dismissively, not really caring that Kouga has told Kagome what happened deep in the forgotten mountains. A part of him had hoped he would. "Admit it, you're just a pussy," he grins, punching Kouga on the arm that barks with laughter as he stumbles a step back.

"Whatever, dog breath," the wolf answers, a little surprised at the hanyou's ready forgiveness. The guilt he's been feeling finally abating at InuYasha's dig, knowing the dog forgives him his trespass. "At least I'm gett'en some," he counters with a throaty chuckle.

"Keh, the whole fucking valley knows you're, 'gett'en some,'" InuYasha quips back making Kouga toss his head back and bark with laughter. He takes the opportunity to kick the wolf's foot out from under him, tripping him up. An exchange of friendly swipes and blocks ensues, but due to the number of people and wolves moving around them and into the over spilling hall, the scuffle is brief. Both canines pull away with amused grins twitching their lips, each wondering when exactly it had gotten so easy between them? Like they've been sparring for centuries.

"So?" Kouga claps the hanyou on the back as they finally relent. They fall into step with each other as they make their circuitous way through the bustling people around them, taking a moment to just absorb the sights. "Dig yourself outta your grave yet or what?" He'd seen the dog talking with Rosario from a distance when he'd arrived with Kagome, and it had not looked good if their postures had been any indication. It's a shame what had come out of the dog's mouth hadn't been any better.

InuYasha snorts. "No, and your timing sucks by the way, so thanks very much for that." He'd been so close to finally apologizing. So close to no longer having this heavy weight sitting on his chest.

"Ah, don't sweat it, 'Yash," Kouga grins, side-stepping a group of young human and youkai children that go squealing and running past them into the large Hall, clearly ready for the celebrating to begin. He knows the feeling only too well, more than ready to feast with Kagome. If he has the time, he'll even try some of the food. "You don't realize it, but I saved your ass back there."

"How do ya figure, oh all-knowing one?" InuYasha growls with annoyance, never wanting to admit that Kouga really had. He'd been a sinking ship, complete with burning sails and a wish for a quick death.

"Hey, it ain't my fault if half the shit that comes out of your mouth is an unintelligible mess," Kouga smirks, chuckling at the hard shove to his shoulder InuYasha gives him, both knowing how true his words are, painful though they may be.

"And?!" InuYasha glares at the frustrating wolf. "Do you have anything actually useful to say?"

"Maybe," Kouga rams his shoulder into the dog, returning the hit and shoving him back a hard step.

InuYasha growls at the wolf with annoyance, slipping his hands into the sleeves of his armor, but otherwise makes no other move, having learned the wolf demons tit for tat method of speaking. The brief spark that burns bright in Kouga's eyes as he watches him, tells InuYasha that whatever the wolf has to say, aggravation will mostly likely play a key part of the conversation. Go figure.

"Why do I feel like whatever you're gonna say is gonna piss me off?" he asks.

"That's called instincts, mutt face," Kouga grins, eliciting a snort of laughter from the hanyou.

"Har, har, the court jester returns," InuYasha's unamused glare and matching tone gives away his true feelings at such a prospect, the wolf's return grin and response only pissing him off more.

"The one and only," Kouga smirks, his eyes lighting with mischief as he takes a slight bow, arms extended out to the sides in a little flourish. What is it about the hanyou's growing annoyance that only seems to feed his desire to needle him that little bit more? A need that seems to have oddly intensified with their growing friendship.

"Wow. You're so fucking funny, I don't think I can take it anymore," InuYasha scowls, doing his best to ignore the wolf's throaty laughter. It's strange, but something about the sound doesn't inspire that 'punch him in the face' feeling like it used to. In fact, it's almost . . . tolerable. It's how he knows the kami really are fucking with him.

"Feeling a little sensitive, are we?" Kouga goads, pushing into the hanyou as he makes way for a group of villagers to pass through carrying a number of musical instruments in their arms. He can already hear music playing all around him, but it seems all the musicians are coming out tonight.

"Keh," InuYasha grunts, just barely stumbling out of the way of a large harp being carried by 3 very young males, "and here I thought you were actually gonna be helpful for once."

"Ha!" Kouga barks with clear pleasure as he leans towards the hanyou. Grabbing him by the shoulder, he shakes him a little roughly but in a clearly affectionate manner. "What would be the fun in that, 'Yash?" And what is it about that glare the dog gives him that just makes everything worth it?

Golden orbs narrow on the wolf demon. Something in the friendly ribbing has an affect on the hanyou he can't quite explain. Fortunately, the difficult emotions give way to a much easier one to process – annoyance.

"Seriously, you ever not gonna be a pain in my ass?" InuYasha growls, trying to shove Kouga off him with little success.

"Probably not," the wolf grins, his eyes bright and teasing.

InuYasha snorts at the comment. "Finally, we agree on something," he quips back, waiting for the congestion in the crowds to clear up as they near the main entrance way.

Kouga's grin borders on something dark and a little manic when his eyes narrow fractionally on the dog demon at his side, "I even got the solution for that mess that comes out of your mouth."

"Oh, I can't wait to hear this," InuYasha sighs, not daring to get his hopes up.

"It's brilliant and fool proof, even for you," Kouga smirks, enjoying teasing the dog a little more than he probably should.

"I'm all ears," InuYasha answers in a bored tone while twitching his ears noticeably.

Kouga grins, "Just filter everything you're gonna say through a barrel of sake."

"How is that gonna help?!" Although, it isn't the worst idea he's ever heard.

"Easy," the smile Kouga offers doesn't fill InuYasha with much confidence, "you'll make way more sense when you're three sheets to the wind, not to mention all your problems will fade before the hangover kicks in," he grins, giving the dog a knowing wink, mostly because he'll be passed out in a ditch somewhere.

"So, your big helpful answer to my problems is to get off-my-ass drunk and make a fool of myself?" There's a part of him that wonders if the wolf secretly enjoys messing with his head.

"See, even you can't fuck that up," Kouga smirks, victory shining bright in his eyes.

InuYasha groans loudly as his head tips back. This is what hell is like. He's absolutely sure of it. "Kami, please tell me there's been a cancellation for tonight's show."

Patting him on the back of the shoulder, Kouga gives it a firm squeeze. "Sorry, 'Yash," his lips curl, making sure to give the hanyou his extra cocky grin as he steers him into the packed Hall, "I'm here all night."