Tis the Season
by That'sMyFiasco
On the tenth day of Christmas...
Sounds of splashing and feminine laughter followed Inuyasha as he picked his way over the stream, following Miroku up to the second hot spring. On their way out of the village and on their way to the next, a sudden storm full of sleet and hail had blown through, afterwards leaving everyone breathless and cold. The decision to find a pair of hot springs was quick and unanimous.
Finally, as he approached the steaming water, the hanyou peeled off his sodden clothes, jumping into the spring with a sigh of relief. Miroku was right behind him, though moving with considerably more grace after undoing the numerous ties and twists of his robe.
The pair soaped up swiftly, soaking in the warmth while eager to dry off once and for all and get something to eat. Inuyasha kept his ears open for the sounds of the rest of the group, listening carefully to ensure their safety, even though he couldn't see them. Kagome 'n' Sango will want a fire when they get back... Had better get some firewood ready...
Too soon, he lifted himself out of the warm water, only to slip back in when his hand landed on something hard and sharp. Once he shook water and the sound of the monk's laughter out of his ears, Inuyasha glared at the gift, two fine chopsticks poked into a soft mound of moss. They were beautiful- and sturdy, as he had found out; the ends tipped with gold wire.
Grabbing them in his fist, Inuyasha shrugged back into his clothing. The little presents might be annoying, but... if they were already there, he might as well use them.