Inuyasha walked through the castle gates, taking in notice of a lovely rose and fruit garden. The sight reminded him of his long-deceased mother, who maintained a similar garden. Remembering this brought a few tears to his eyes.
He wiped the tears away with his sleeve and continued on, making his way towards the castle.

As Inuyasha approached the castle doors, his attention was drawn to the eerie gargoyles that looked down upon him, causing a shiver of fear run down his spine. Summoning his courage, he put on a brave face, realizing that the new moon was about to begin soon.

He didn't want to be caught out in the storm in his human form. He walked up to the doors and knocked several times, but there was no response. With a cautious push, he opened the doors, which emitted an eerie sound that sent another wave of unease through him.

As he stepped inside, the doors slowly closed behind him with a creak, causing him to jump in fright. Standing in the foyer of the castle, Inuyasha looked around, noticing that no one seemed to be present. He hesitantly announced his presence, his voice filled with a mixture of fear and uncertainty.

In a startled tone, Inuyasha asks, "Anyone here? The forest path leading home got suddenly blocked by the storm. Hope I'm not imposing, but can i get some shelter?"

Whispering to the Clock, Candlestick observes, "He looks so cold and terrified, doesn't he?"

Clock grumbles under his breath, "We'll hear about it from the master."

With a sigh, Candlestick implores, "Have a heart, will you?"

Rolling his eyes, Clock retorts, "Fine, fine! But if the master throws a fit, remember I warned you."

Welcomely, Candlestick says, "Monsieur, please make yourself at home."

Looking around, Inuyasha wonders, "Who's speaking?"

"It's me," Candlestick replies with a chuckle, waving from the side.

Gazing in his direction, Inuyasha questions, "Where exactly."

With a cheerful nod, Candlestick greets, "Right over here."

Sightly agitated, Inuyasha probes, "Is this some kind of magic trick?"

"It's not magic, "Candlestick clarifies with a smile, "Just a unique situation."

Raising an eyebrow, Inuyasha presses, "A talking candlestick? How?"

Chuckling, Candlestick gestures grandly, "Ah, it's quite a tale. Maybe later. For now, how about some warmth by the fire and a bit to eat."

Gratefully Inuyasha replies, "That sounds great. The woods weren't exactly a walk in the park."

Leading the way, Candlestick assures, "Let me take care of you!"

Guided by the Candlestick and the Clock, Inuyasha found himself besides the cozy warmth of a grand hearth. The room was illuminated by the soft glow of the fire, casting dancing shadows that played on the walls. Within moments, a cart rolled in, it's wheels squeaking slightly. Atop it sat a teapot, sugar, and a dainty tea cup.

Candlestick, with a touch of elegance, inquired, "Would you like some sugar with your tea, sir?"

Inuyasha nodded, "Yes, please. Three lumps, if that's alright."

As he reached for the sugar, the little teacup let out a giggle, causing Inuyasha to pause. He felt the tea cup twitch in his hands.

Looking down, surprised, Inuyasha greeted, "Oh, hello there!"

But before the cup could respond, the grand doors of the living room were thrust open with a force that made everyone jump. L looming figure entered, eyes fixated on Inuyasha.

"There's a stranger in my home," the figure, unmistakably the Beast, growled.

Desperately trying to ease the palpable tension, Clock chimed in, "Master, I beg of you, be reasonable! The lad was nearly frozen and looked quite worse for wear. He mentioned being lost in the woods, and the storm prevented him from finding his way back home.

But the Beast's roar silenced any further explanation, "SILENCE!" The room felt cold despite there being a roaring fire, as all eyes turned to the towering creature.

The Beast, with a commanding presence, approached the stranger. As he did so, he noticed something atop the boys head that took him aback. It was a sight he had believed to be long gone from this world.
"So," he began, attempting to regain his composure, "you're in ne of shelter?" Inuyasha bow slightly, eyes downcast,

"Yes, sir. I truly apologize for the intrusion. I found myself with no other option."

The beast's expression softened ever so slightly, "I understand your predicament. However, in exchange for my hospitality, you will serve as my personal attendant during your stay."

Inuyasha considered this, then nodded, "That sounds fair."

With a nod of agreement, the Beast said, "Very well. Let me show you to your quarters."

Inuyasha looked puzzled, "My room? But I assumed...

The Beast interrupted with a smirk, "Did you expect to sleep on the floor? Or would you prefer a warm bed?"

Inuyasha, realizing he had misjudged, quickly responded, "No, I'd prefer the bed."

The Beast's tone grew sharper, "THEN FOLLOW ME."

As they began to ascend the grand staircase, Candlestick, always the one to interject, frantically waved his arms to catch the Beast's attention. The Beast turned his head, his patience visibly thinning.

"WHAT?"

Candlestick, with a nudge from the Clock, whispered, "Say something to him."

Hesitating for a moment, the Beast cleared his throat, "I trust you'll find your stay here pleasant."

Seeing the Candlestick's gestures urging him to continue, the Beast added, This castle is now your home. Feel free to explore its corners, but the west wing is off-limits."

Inuyasha's curiosity piqued, "What's in the west wing?"

The Beast's face darkened, and he growled deeply, "IT FORBIDDEN." The warning in his voice was clear.

Continuing down the winding hallway, the Beast finally stopped before an ornate door adorned with intricate carvings. He pushed it open to reveal a spacious room bathed in soft candlelight. Turning back to face Inuyasha, the Beast was taken aback. The boy before him looked completely different. Catching the Beast's incredulous gaze,

Inuyasha inquired, "What are you staring at?"

Avoiding direct eye contact, the Beast fumbled with his words, "Your hair... wasn't it silver? And I could've sworn that you had... dog ears?" Recognition flashed in Inuyasha's eyes, and his face turned pale.

Then panic set in.

The Beast, sensing Inuyasha's distress, extended a paw to gently rest on the boy's shoulder, "Hey, calm down. I'm not going to harm you. I'm just taken aback by the change. Can you tell me why?"

Cheeks flushed with embarrassment, Inuyasha lowered his gaze, mumbling, "It's complicated. I'd rather not discuss it."

Rolling his eyes, the Beast gestured towards the room, "This is where you'll be staying." Remembering Candlestick's earlier advice, the Beast hesitated before asking, "But first, what should I call you?"

Looking up, Inuyasha replied, "It's Inuyasha."

A deep purring growl emanated from the Beast, startling Inuyasha for a moment before the Beast clarified, "It's a beautiful name."

Blushing even deeper, Inuyasha stammered his thanks.

Seizing his opportunity, the Beast extended an invitation, "Inuyasha, would you honor me by joining me for dinner?"

Inuyasha's eyes widened in surprise, clearly not expecting the politeness from the Beast. After a brief moment, he managed to nod, "Yes, I'd like that."

With a pleasured grin, the Beast responded, "Excellent. I'll have someone to come for you when everything's ready."

Nodding in agreement, Inuyasha said, "Thank you. That sounds great." Inuyasha hesitated, glancing down at his attire, "Do I need to dress in any particular way for dinner?"

The Beast paused to consider the question. He surveyed Inuyasha's outfit, a blend of traditional and practicality, "No," he decided, "What you're wearing is fine. But if you wish to change, you're welcome to."

Inuyasha nodded, "Thank you, I'll think it over." With a hint of warmth, the Beast replied, "I look forward to our dinner."

Inuyasha gave a brief smile, "Yes, see you at dinner." As the Beast began to turn away, a sudden thought occurred to Inuyasha "Wait," he called out softly. The Beast paused, looking back. "May I know your name?"

A thoughtful expression crossed the Beast's face, as if debating whether to share or not. After a moment, he responded, "You may. My name is Scott."

Inuyasha's eyes widened in recognition, "Scott? What a small world. My best friend, and my first crush back in school, was name Scott. But... he passed away years ago."

Scott's features softened, "I'm sorry to hear that. I hope his departure was peaceful."

Inuyasha swallowed the lump in his throat, "It was. He died in his sleep." Pausing to gather his emotions, Inuyasha continued, "I'll come down soon. Just need a moment to collect myself."

Scott nodded understandingly, with a hint of playfulness, "Take your time. Dinner won't be ready for a while," he added with a wink, causing Inuyasha to blush once more.

With the conversation concluded, Scott turned and left, making his way to inform the castle staff about the impending dinner leaving Inuyasha to gather his thoughts in the sanctuary of his room.