They stayed like that for a while, Kagura never taking her eyes off him, all while mumbling threats under her breath. Emiko emerged from the kitchen, patting her head even though they were the same height.
"Save that for when he's actually done something," she chided.
"You're the one always telling us to be proactive instead of reactive," Kagura grumbled, accepting the cup of tea.
The beast perked up when her mother came near, kneeling in front of him with a soft smile. "That was a nasty wound you had. You're lucky Kagome was here to help you." He looked between the two women, then shifted, placing his head at Emiko's feet. She chuckled and shook her head. "I had nothing to do with it; she felt you deserved saving."
The sisters shared a look, Kagome pulling on her mother's sleeve. "Mama, are you able to talk to him?"
"It's not so much talking, dear. Inuyoukai have a language all their own; perhaps you should brush up on it while he's here."
Kagome blushed, knowing it had been a while since she'd read through the scrolls, focusing more on active experience out in the woods. "Yes, Mama."
"I'm sure he'll help you along the way," she said, patting Kagome's shoulder before getting to her feet. "And you're welcome to be protective, but don't be overzealous in your assumptions." She gave Kagura a pointed look, the woman hiding her frown behind her teacup, ruby eyes never leaving the creature.
"I'll behave as long as he does."
The beast snorted, then returned his nose to Kagome's hand, eyes fluttering shut.