Inuyasha ran into the forest, crying and ranting about Theo, not realizing how deep he had ventured. When he finally stopped, he found himself lost in a clearing. As he surveyed the area, a sense of familiarity struck him. He walked around, eventually spotting an old tree stump. Recognizing it instantly, he realized he was in the same place where he had entered this strange world fifteen years ago.

He sat on the stump to gather his thoughts, oblivious to the fact that he was being observed. It wasn't until he heard a howl that he looked up to see glowing red-orange eyes watching him. Still, he wasn't alarmed, confident that the creature behind those eyes meant no harm to him. As the wolf drew nearer, it shifted into a humanoid form, revealing itself to be Koga, the alpha of the woods.

"Pup, what's happened? You seem upset."

Sniffling, Inuyasha replied, "It's Theo. He... I can't stand him! I just want him gone."

Koga looked concerned. "Slow down, Inuyasha. What did he do to you?"

Inuyasha took a deep breath. "He just... he proposed to me out of nowhere. And then, without warning, he kissed me."

Koga frowned deeply. "He's truly crossed a line this time."

Sighing, Inuyasha said, "You're telling me."

Koga extended his hand towards Inuyasha. "Inuyasha, come back with me to the den. Rest and heal among those who care about you."

Inuyasha's eyes softened. "I'd like that. It's been five years I last saw you and the pack."

Inuyasha gratefully accepts Koga's hand. As they walked towards the den, they caught up on old times. Upon their arrival, Inuyasha was tackled to the ground by the twins in the wolf forms. They showered him licks and affectionate nuzzles, emitting a purr-like growl throughout.

Inuyasha, laughing while pinned to the ground, exclaimed, "Hey, guys! I see that you've missed me. But isn't this a bit much, boys?"

The boys nodded and backed off, allowing Inuyasha to sit up. He reached out, scratching under their chins and behind their ears. This caused them to wag their tails in delight and emit the growl-like purr even louder. The noise woke up Aiden, who had been cuddling with his father in their wolf forms. Aiden then got up and walked over to Inuyasha to greet him as well.

Koga approached Aiden and whispered something in his ear, prompting a raised eyebrow and concerned look at Inuyasha. Without hesitation, Aiden shifted into his humanoid form, disregarding his nakedness, and went over to hug Inuyasha.

Aiden looked at Inuyasha with a mixture of sympathy and concern. "You poor pup, that must have been a rough experience to go through."

Inuyasha sniffled, "It was. I despise that man with every fiber of my being. It's revolting every time he tries to get my attention. I wish he would leave me alone. But, how have you been? And where's your brother?"

"I'm doing well, thanks for asking, pup. As for Ethan, he's not in the best shape."

Inuyasha's brows furrowed. "Oh no, what happened this time?"

Aiden hesitated, "It's nothing major... unless you consider being named the new matriarch of the family major. Our father is nearing his end. Last week, he summoned Ethan and I to announce his successor. Since I'm already mated and married, and Ethan isn't, he'll have to take over the family leadership when our father passes."

Inuyasha hummed at the news. "That's a heavy load to bear. No wonder he's struggling after hearing that. How long does he have to a mate and marry?"

"Two months since father doesn't have much longer to live." responded Aiden.

What about you? "Inuyasha asked."

Aiden smirked, "I don't know what you're referring to."

Inuyasha shot him a knowing look. "You're well aware that my sense of smell and hearing almost rivals that of any werewolf. So, how far long are you?

Blushing, Aiden glanced towards Koga, "Babe, help me out here?"

Koga chuckled, "Not a chance. Just answer the question."

Sighing in defeat, Aiden admitted, "Two months."

Inuyasha beamed, "Was that so difficult? Two months, huh? Congratulations. Any idea what you're having?"

Aiden's face lit up with pride, "A boy, and by his scent suggests he might be an alpha, but we'll only know for sure after he's born. We're hopeful though. After all, Koga was the last alpha born in the last fifty years in his family."

"That's fantastic news! That means Koga will have an heir to take over when he retires or passes. Wishing you both all the best of luck and I hope your suspicions prove true."

"Thank you, pup!"

Inuyasha smiled warmly, "Anytime, pack father."

Their conversation stirred Hojo and Ethan from their slumber, but they soon drifted off again. Inuyasha observed, "Damn that sickness must be taking a toll on Hojo for him to fall asleep so quickly."

Aiden nodded, "It does. He tires quickly. But let, me escort you back to the clearing. My mate and the twins need their rest."

"Much appreciated, mate father." Inuyasha tells him.

After a quick kiss to Koga, Aiden led Inuyasha out. Ten minutes later, they were back at the clearing where Koga found Inuyasha.

Aiden asked, "Are you sure you can find your way back home from here?"

Inuyasha nodded confidently, "Absolutely!"

"Good. Take care of yourself and promise me you won't wait another five years to visit pup."

Inuyasha scoffed, "Yes, mate father. I'll visit more frequently. And you, stay safe as well."

Aiden smiled, "Glad to hear that."

Aiden hugged Inuyasha, and Inuyasha returned the hug before they parted ways. Aiden shifted back into his wolf form and ran off into the direction from which they had came. Watching Aiden disappear, Inuyasha had an odd sensation that they would meet again sooner than expected. Shaking off the feeling, Inuyasha started heading home. However, before he could leave the clearing, a strange urge prompted him to explore the woods further.

After about thirty minutes, darkness began to fall. It was then that Inuyasha realized it was the night of the new moon, which caused him to panic. Deciding it would be best to avoid the village and keep his secret safe, Inuyasha chose not to return home. He then decided to retrace his steps back to the den. But, as luck would have it, a lightning bolt struck several trees, causing them to topple and block his way.

Unwilling to take a detour for the fear of getting lost, Inuyasha continued on his current route. He eventually came to a fork in the road. Although his initial choice was to go straight, but a gut feeling urged him to take the other path. After about thirty minutes, of walk down the path he encountered a gate, and beyond there stood a foreboding castle. He thought to himself, "It's better than nothing. Plus, it looks like a storm is coming. I'd rather not be lost in the forest during it."