Trick -or- Treat

by BunnyWK

Summary:

Kagome learns that some monsters are more loving than she could imagine. A collection of one-shots. NSFW exclusive chapters.

Chapter 1: Mad Doctor Haruhi

The crack of thunder had her jumping, flinching at the flash of lightning. Despite knowing that she was more than perfectly safe, she still had memories from the reason that brought her here.

Looking down at her left hand, she gave it a squeeze at the pinch in her heart.

Shaking her head, she gripped the handle of the trolley as she hurried to her destination, thankful for the task to distract her from the chaotic weather outside. Pushing the door open with her hip, her eyes quickly found the individual that had saved her just last year when the weather had changed her life.

Their form was hunched over, hands gripping tightly at the edge of the work bench, head of dark hair bowed and contrasting starkly against their white lab coat. It was a posture she was more than familiar with, another failure.

Sighing, she approached them with soft steps, sighing loudly enough that she would be heard. “Please, have something to eat.” she placed the tray on a nearby table that she, herself, had set up to keep where the individual could eat comfortably away from messing up their work bench.

“I don’t get it!” a hand slammed down with a harsh exhale. Thick black gloves were tossed at the bench, messing up the otherwise meticulous surface, quickly followed by the heavy-duty goggles. “Why won’t it work?”

Flinching, she tucked in on herself, feeling like she was partly to blame for the continued failures. “I’m sorry.”

Brown eyes gentled as a soft hand cupped her jaw and lifted her head. “No. It’s not your fault. You are my greatest success.” one hand trailed down her left arm, squeezing just above the elbow before continuing down to take hold of her hand and tug her along to the table. “And I’m so glad you decided to stay.”

Biting down on her lips, Kagome could only nod her head. She had explained everything after she was finally deemed healthy enough to return home, but honestly, there would be nothing to return too. To be honest, she felt like she was taking advantage of the Doctor and her saviour. “I don’t really have anywhere else to go. And to be honest, I don’t think I could take the looks people would give me and my… changes.”

Her Doctor let out a scoff, dropping into her own chair without much grace, nimble fingers undoing the buttons to reveal the rather fine clothing underneath. Despite the chaos and clutter of the lab, the rest of the manor was a sign of the status of her Doctor. As such, she often wore men’s fashion, proper men’s attire. She would wear women’s fashion if the situation called for it, or if she felt the desire, but more than not, she wore men’s fashion. She even cut her hair short.

Kagome always found that it suited her Doctor, even if the small staff of maids and butlers considered it off and awkward. There were paintings and portraits when she was younger and as a ‘proper lady’, but honestly, either looked suited the woman.

“The world is changing and people need to accept that. How they can accept soldiers returning from war with battle scars but not women that survive accidents is utterly unacceptable.” brows furrowed as she stood up and flung her lab coat at a nearby sofa, so she could prepare a plate of food. “Science is showing the people so much, changing everything, so they need to commit to those changes.”

Nodding her head, Kagome understood the truth as she had been so fascinated in what science was proving each and every day, even as her family scoffed and attempted to remind her of their values and traditions. And now she was literally living proof. Seeing a plate being placed before her, she blinked back into the present. “Doctor, what are you doing? This is for you!”

Lips curling, her Doctor smirked. “I know for a fact, that you always wait to eat until after I have.” shaking her head, she prepared her own plate. With a full smile, she placed a napkin across her lap before reaching for her utensils. “And how many times have I told you to call me by my name?”

“But-!” while she agreed with the changes brought on by science, she was still a stickler for respecting one’s station in life, and her Doctor was adamant that she not be referred to by the title she inherited simply because she was born into a life with land, money, and power.

“Tut-tut! Repeat after me, Ha-Ru-Hi.” seeing that she was hesitant, she made a show of pushing her plate away. “I won’t eat a bite of what I know to be your amazing cooking, until you call me by name. It has been a year now.”

Knowing that her worry for the Doctor’s easy ability to push eating aside and her desire to make sure said Doctor ate more than enough, Kagome pouted. Puffed out cheeks took on a blush when she earned a laugh. “...-ruhi.” turning away at yet another laugh.

“I’m sorry, I don’t think I heard that.” with another show, her Doctor leaned in close, presenting her profile as she tucked some hair behind her ear. “Could you repeat that?”

“...” pursing her lips, Kagome let out a huff as she clenched at the material of her skirts. “Haruhi!”

“Ha-ha-ha!” the laughter had her blushing all the harder. “Good, good!”

Their supper was filled with idle chatter, it was comfortable, even if she did jump at the thunder and lightning. Despite that, she was the most relaxed she had been in a long time.

“You still afraid of storms?” Haruhi’s question wasn’t teasing or belittling, but held actual concern.

Nodding her head, she pressed her right hand to her left arm, gently squeezing just above her elbow. “...a little. My left arm and leg also hurt during storms.” the moment the words left her mouth, Haruhi was once again in doctor mode, getting up and approaching her carefully from the left.

“They do? Why haven’t you said something earlier?” her actions were gentle as she raised her left hand, carefully removing the glove. “Is it your entire arm, or somewhere specific?”

Stuttering, she pressed her knuckles to her mouth. “Just-just above my elbow on my arm, a-and near my- my hip for my leg.”

“So, where the scars are at.” her words were hushed as she asked her to do this and that with her hand and wanting to know if the pained got better or worse. “And why you haven’t said anything earlier?”

Shrugging as best as she could while being examined, Kagome blinked before she realized that Haruhi was kneeling on the floor and going to examine her leg now. “K-Krieger said it was normal. His- his own leg acts up in aut-autumn!” blush growing, she flinched at the sensation of the hand sliding up her calf while the other gently moved her foot this way and that.

Nodding her head, Haruhi stood up, brows still furrowed. “Would you be willing to show my the scars? I want to make sure they’re alright.”

Lips pursed tightly, Kagome waited before she finally relented and nodded her head. “I- I guess.” standing up, she removed her blouse. The dark fabric was clutched to her chest, an attempt to maintain her modesty while standing in chemise. Her eyes lingered on her left arm, specifically the scar. It circled her entire arm, the flesh raised where Haruhi had stitched. And while most would consider the scar horrifying, what had shocked her the most when she first saw her left arm, were the two distinctive tones of skin. Above the scar showed, even in a year of wearing long sleeves, skin that it had seen much sunshine. Below the scar, however, was obviously paler. The same was with her leg.

It wasn’t until she could stay awake for long periods of time, did Haruhi tell her the truth behind her left arm and leg; they had belonged to her sister. Through some feat of scientific breakthrough and perhaps divine intervention, Haruhi had successfully transplanted limbs from one person onto another.

They weren’t the only change, after the bandages first came off, she raced to the first mirror. The shock of seeing her arm and leg had been more than she could take, but when she saw her face, she nearly fainted. There were shocks of white now running through her hair, and the eyes staring back at her were now icy blue instead of the warm browns that her mother used to say reminded her of her father.

“You’ve run off in your mind again.” a soft, warm hand cupped her cheek. Haruhi showed honest concern. “Are you alright? Is it the nightmare? I know a doctor that is making leaps and bounds when it comes to mental problems and disorders.”

Smiling, she shook her head. “Thank you for the offer, but I’m alright. I am doing much better than before.”

Haruhi shook her head, a small smile as she took hold of Kagome’s free hand. “You’re so quick to defend anyone on the staff, especially when those that deliver our goods and produce take to teasing and harassing the maids. Even if they recoiled when they first see you.” her other hand cupped her chin at the flinch of the reminder. “They’re fools, for not seeing how beautiful you really are, inside and out.”

Raising her hand, she touched the corner of an eye. “They… they say my eyes scare them, and they’re not wrong. They’re cold, and harsh, and look dead.” they were a reason why she kept both her head and eyes down. Even the others used to flinch in the beginning, but that changed once she and the other staff got to know each other. It was when outsiders got involved that reminded her that she was different. Perhaps even a monst-!

Her blouse fluttered to the ground when she dropped it in favour to press her fingers to her lips, rearing back in utter confusion. Had Haruhi just kissed her?

“I know what you’re thinking, and don’t.” while her words her stern, her tone was soft. “Yes, you’ve changed since the accident and death of your sister. But those fools are blind. Your eyes are not cold, or harsh, or dead. Quite the opposite, in fact. When you’re angry, particularly towards those delivery men upset you, your eyes remind me of the first snowfall then. When you’re happy and smiling and laughing, they look like a clear blue sky on a hot summer day, it almost hurts to look, but the beauty keeps you locked all the same.”

Kagome felt her cheeks warm, the warmth growing the more she spoke. Her heart was pounding, she had no idea that Haruhi paid the much attention to her.

Haruhi’s hand moved to cup her cheek, expression softening. “And when you blush, they remind me of my favourite flowers when they first bloom in spring.” having her entire attention, Haruhi smiled, her own cheeks showing a hint of a blush, before she leaned in and shared another sweet kiss. It lasted a few moments, perhaps even minutes, it was hard to tell as her mind was a complete blank. Finally, Haruhi pulled back, “You are beautiful, and if I have to, I will be more than happy to remind you every day.”

Heart pounding, she could only stand there stunned at how the evening unfolded. “...I… I would like that.” feeling entirely too bashful, she ducked her head down out of habit.

“Glad to hear that.” piece spoken, Haruhi quickly ducked down to pick up the fallen blouse, assisting Kagome in putting it back on. “It’s been a long day, I think you’ll be happy to hear that I wish to retire for the night at a proper time.”

Giggling, Kagome fixed her blouse, giggling in surprise and delight when Haruhi tucked her arm with her own and began leading her out of the lab. If asked, she would admit that she was nervous, but she was also highly excited at what the future could possibly hold for her now.

The evening had somehow led to the both of them in Haruhi’s chambers. Kagome just knew the other maids would take to enjoy teasing her come the morning. If their cheeky winks and subtle forms of congratulations as they passed them were anything to go by.

“...Haruhi?” fingers twisted in nervousness.

“Did I not say that I would gladly tell you every day that you were beautiful?” Haruhi took hold of her hands, pressing the fingertips against her lips. “I was hoping to start tonight. If that’s alright?”

Heart stuttering, Kagome nodded her head. Honestly, she was comforted that Haruhi had asked. It was rather empowering, to have Haruhi be direct in admitting her attractions towards her, Kagome, of all people! Haruhi had admitted to being attracted to both men and women, she was not ashamed to say it out loud. A modern woman that was not afraid of values of the past.

Her thoughts came to a halt the moment she realized she was standing naked, Haruhi’s hands had been so gentle and smooth that she had barely noticed. It was an awkward situation, and Kagome had no idea with what to do with her hands.

“You truly are beautiful, Kagome.” Haruhi trailed her fingers down Kagome’s arm, taking hold of her hand to raise it, so she could press a kiss to the knuckles. With the hold on her hand, Haruhi tugged Kagome towards, the bed. “Why don’t you take a seat.”

Taking a seat, Kagome brushed her hands across the plush comforter, only to blush when she realized she was sitting naked on Haruhi’s bed. Oh, for the blush to spread and feel impossibly hot. Hearing Haruhi laugh softly had her slapping her hands over her face.

“I would rather you didn’t cover your face.” to which Kagome frantically shook her head. “Alright. Though I would like to point out, that I did not know your blush fell so low. It’s rather endearing.”

With a squeak, Kagome’s hands automatically lowered to cover her breasts, mortification at feeling her nipples stiff against her palms rearing its head. She wasn’t sure if she could get away with blaming it on the room being chilly, not when there was a rather nice fire roaring to keep the room warm during the storm.

Looking up to ask for Haruhi to stop her teasing, the words died on her tongue when she realized that Haruhi was undressing at an easy pace. Her eyes followed the steady progression as each inch of skin was revealed, despite her strong attempt to keep her gaze at more modest locations.

Haruhi was definitely a petite figure, Kagome had actually mistaken her for a young man, but now she recognized Haruhi’s subtle femininity. The cuts of the mens fashion hid her very well.

“I’m glad to see you enjoy the view.” her smile grew at Kagome’s trembling whimper. “If I do anything you’re not comfortable with, I want you to let me know right away.”

Nodding her head, her gaze locked with Haruhi’s as she approached, causing Kagome to scoot back to make room. Her body began to tremble at the first brush of skin against skin, warmth and sparks erupting only to spread throughout her entire body. “I’m nervous.”

“That’s alright, it’s perfectly normal.” she began to place kisses the further she climbed up Kagome’s body, smiling at each tremble and shiver those kisses earned. “Don’t worry, I got you.”

The moment a leg was wedged between her own, her hips arched at the intimate touch. “Ah!” Chest thrust up, breath stuttering as she clutched at the comforter. Feeling lips and tongue at a breast, she flinched at the foreign sensation, but her grip tightened on the material and her toes curled when it seemed to tug at something deep below her belly. When a hand joined in mimicking the actions of Haruhi’s mouth on her other breast, Kagome’s lungs collapsed in a long whoosh.

Breast released with a pop, Haruhi nosed against the swell of the breast she had just been teasing with lips and teeth, only to whispered against her chest, just above where her heart was pounding. “You really are beautiful, Kagome dear.”

“Ha-Haruhi!” the whine was drawn out, ending on a high sigh when the fingers continued to flick against a stiff nipple, giving it a sudden twist that seemed to cause her whole body to twist. Her hips were now grinding down on the soft thigh between her legs, enjoying the shots of pleasure every pass was creating, but it didn’t seem enough. “Please… Please I need-!”

Kagome was wriggling, not really understanding how to keep the pleasure going, to keep that sensation. A moan of disappointment escaped her as her chin tipped up when Haruhi pulled away. “Easy, I have you.” fingers carded through her hair, pulling a lock of white to kiss it as Kagome watched on.

Whimpering, Kagome twisted and thrust her chest back up, hoping to redirect Haruhi’s attention back to where she had just been. “Please, I ne-need…” she attempted to implore Haruhi with her eyes alone, back crashing when she was denied.

Smiling, Haruhi shook her head. “I know. But if you want anything, I first want to hear you call yourself beautiful. Just me saying it isn’t enough.”

Flushing, Kagome actually pouted at the stipulation. Facing away, she muttered the words. Hands let their death grip on the comforter and clutch at Haruhi the moment she began to pull away. “No!”

“Try again, louder this time.” at the hesitation, Haruhi ducked down to kiss her. It was passionate, completely different from the sweet kisses from earlier. Teeth nipped at her lower lip, causing her to gasp that quickly turned into a moan when a tongue brushed against her own. Before she could enjoy this newest sensation, Haruhi pulled away. “Shall we try again?”

Licking her lips, Kagome looked up at Haruhi. Seeing that she would not budge, Kagome grumbled before taking in a deep breath. “I… I am beautiful.”

The smile she got in return caused her heart to stutter in anticipation, though all she got was a teasing kiss was placed against her nipple, but nothing more. “Again.”

Sputtering, but wanting to continue feeling every new sensation that Haruhi was introducing her to, Kagome bit down on her embarrassment. “I am… I am beautiful.”

Another kiss, though this time it was accompanied by a flick of a tongue. “Again.”

Breath hitching, Kagome arched into the continued teasing of her breasts. “I am beautiful.”

“Again.” teeth nipped and tugged now. Haruhi’s hand also returned, though it was now trailing down her side.

Arching into the touch, Kagome breathed deeply and could only whisper the next utterance. “I’m beautiful!”

There was no demand that she repeat the words, Kagome was automatically doing it now, her hands diving into Haruhi’s hair. The hope was that she could keep Haruhi there, so she could continue with whatever she was doing. In doing so, she forgot about Haruhi’s wandering hand. She was instantly reminded when it sneaked between her legs and fingers began to tease her. “I’m beautiful, Haruhi!”

Despite the tight grip on her hair, Haruhi lifted her head. “You truly are beautiful, Kagome dear.” lips quickly locked, tongue thrusting just as fingers teasingly dipped lower.

Back arching up, Kagome cried out. Molten heat rushed through her, everything was winding up tighter and tighter the more Haruhi’s fingers moved within her. “Ahn… Ah-ah, Haruhi!” the cry started strong, only to end on a sigh. Body shivering, jaw clenching as she felt like she was brought to the edge and left to gaze at something wonderful that was just out of her reach.

Haruhi nipped and kissed from her breasts up her neck to nibble at an ear, breath panting slightly. “Stunning. If only you could see yourself through my eyes.” teeth returned to nibble at her ear.

Bringing Haruhi even closer, a leg lifted to curl around a hip. Cracking her eyes open, Kagome hadn’t even been aware that she closed them, breath hitching at the passion she was seeing staring down at her, there was also something softer that gave the heat a tender touch but Kagome was afraid to put a name to it. Haruhi’s hair was in a state of disarray from how she was constantly clutching and tugging at it.

The entire situation felt utterly decadent.

“Ha-Haruhi… please!” her body strained, arching tight against Haruhi’s until both their fronts were flush. “I’m… I’m- ahn!”

Haruhi’s fingers began to move harsher, sliding in an out and with every pass, pressing and rubbing at a spot that sent pleasure stabbing deep below her belly. Haruhi carefully dropped her weight, it gave her the ability to tease one breast with her other hand as she ducked her head to nip and suckle at the other.

All of it combined finally threw Kagome over the edge. Lungs seized, heart pounding, she felt her body tremble as it slowly eased back into the bed.

It took a few moments, maybe longer, it was hard to tell, but she felt herself return. Her front was cooler, as Haruhi was no longer spread across her, but instead resting at her side with an arm curled around her waist. Shifting her legs as she turned to face Haruhi, Kagome felt like she would blush if she was not so exhausted, at feeling the slickness of her thighs. Even the fingers that petted along her side, trekking lower to brush along the swell of her backside, were sticky.

“If I had the talent, I would like to paint you as you are now.” Haruhi pressed a kiss to Kagome’s brow, smiling at the weak swat her words earn her.

“Hush.” curling up in Haruhi’s warmth, Kagome ducked her head to hide her smile. With Haruhi, she felt warm, safe, and more importantly, beautiful. Remembering the sensations that she had been introduced to, she peeked to look up at Haruhi’s content face. “What about you?”

Mussed hair bounced as Haruhi shook her head. “I said tonight was all about you, and I meant it.” she honestly appeared more than happy to rain kisses all across Kagome’s upturned face. “We have all of our tomorrows.”

“...” lips pursing, she buried her face back into Haruhi’s neck, a leg unknowingly slipping between Haruhi’s own. This time, her cheeks did take on a lazy rosy hue when she felt that Haruhi’s own thighs were slick. “M-may I ask what brought on this sudden change?”

Haruhi’s arm tightened around Kagome’s waist as she propped her chin atop salt and pepper locks. “I wanted to prove that you were not the monster the delivery men called you today. But most importantly, prove it to yourself.”

Warmth unfurling in her heart, Kagome eagerly returned Haruhi’s embrace. “...tha-thank you.”

Haruhi’s hand gave a cheeky squeeze to her backside. “And if you are, then you’re my gentle, passionate, and beautiful monster.” Haruhi hitched her leg higher on Kagome’s hip, using the hold and arm across her waist to pull her tighter.

As for Kagome, she settled in Haruhi’s arms, she felt lighter for the first time in a long time. She often did feel like a monster, especially when those outside the manor appeared. But if she had to be a monster, then she really wouldn’t mind being the kind of monster Haruhi described.

Chapter 2: Incubus Hikaru

Her shadow was a truly beautiful specimen. His figure was more willowy than carved of highly defined muscles like most men from the town. That wasn’t to say there weren’t dips and lines for her to trace that showed subtle musculature, with either her fingers or tongue. She was currently fighting the urge to bit at certain points that called to her.

“You’re shivering, Pet.” elegant fingers tightened their hold on her thighs, the barest of claws reminding her of the fact that he wasn’t human despite his appearance.

Huffing, cheeks flushed, Kagome tugged on the locks of hair in her hold. “And you’re being a tease.”

Hazel eyes glowed more gold in the firelight, eyes narrowed to more catlike slits. “Trust me, I’m not when between the two of us.” he pulled her closer to nip at along her jawline to her ear, fangs teasing a new sensitive spot.

“Oh?” creeping fingers had her twitching, nibbling fangs had her bucking against him. “Then I’ll have to be the direct one, as always.”

Her entire body felt warm, heating from the inside out, starting below her belly. No more beating around the bush, no more tip-toeing or dancing around one another. Finishing that thought, she used her grip on his hair to tug him away and to face her. Sitting on his lap and looking down at him gave her a rush she had never felt before. His moan of pleasure had her toes curling.

“Your… coverings, can they be removed?” she traced the black lines and swirls that danced over his body. She honestly wasn’t sure if it was paint, some sort of cloth, or his actual skin.

A flush coloured his face, eyes heavy lidded as he smiled up at her. “They can be.”

“Remove them.” it wasn’t a plea. It wasn’t a question. It was an outright demand. She felt powerful. “I want to see you. All of you. The real you.”

Bat like wings fluttered as a tail whipped behind him. Lashes fluttered and the black marking, that kept him acceptably covered but drawing attention while emphasizing his beauty, disappeared as if washed away. He was now on full display. Elegant limbs, pale skin, toned physique.

As for his member… it was flushed, and though it may not have a thickness she’s heard some local women fantasize about, not that he wasn’t thick as her hand barely wrapped around it, it had a length on it that she was worried they would not be compatible.

“Don’t worry, Pet, we’ll fit.” he chuckled.

Apparently, she wore her disbelief and concern on her face. But his assurance eased her. Gripping his member, she began stroking, enjoying the fell of him in her palm. Hot and heavy and soft as velvet.

“Good. Otherwise, we would be left wanting.” her thumb brushed against the crown of his cock, member sounded too tame even in her mind. She felt another rush at his shiver.

His smile trembled a bit. “You do know I take on your preferences and fantasies.”

She removed her hand, ignoring his soft whimper, to begin on the ribbon that held her bodice closed. The dark red fabric slid between her fingers as her blouse sagged down her arms. Instantly his eyes were drawn to her cleavage, or what was now visible, since her bodice still kept it in place somewhat. Using his distraction, she loosely tied the ribbon around his neck. “I do remember saying I want to see the real you. Not what you think I want.” she gave the ribbon in her hold a slight tug.

His blush deepened at being pulled in closer to her, his hands now kneading her ass beneath her bunched up skirt. “...this is my actual form.” the admission came as a husky whisper.

Blinking at the honesty she heard, she purred. “Good.” tugging the ribbon again, she crashed her lips against his. Beyond the linger traces of the wine from their earlier meal, the natural spiciness of his own flavouring nearly drowned her.

When his tongue managed to snake its way past her lips to explore and conquer her mouth, her hips gave a roll. Shudders wracked her body at the press of his cock against her. He practically scalded her in the best of the way.

Carefully, she stood up, ensuring that their kiss continued. Even with him once again standing taller than her, she still felt powerful and in charge. She pulled away when her lungs burned for air. Panting, “Undress me.”

His hands left her ass, “Gladly, Pet.” his fingers were quick and deft, tugging on ties, undoing buttons and allowing most to fall away and pool around her feet. Whatever didn’t, or couldn’t, he simply waved them off with his abilities.

Eyes blown, he took in her own form. The simple dresses hinted at her figure. She was petite, yes, she had curves obviously, but the rest was left to the imagination. “Perfection.” Hands trailed along supple curves, tweaking rosy nipples, weighing sensitive breasts before dipping to wide hips. “You are a fest, Pet. And all mine.”

Humming, in agreement, she used her hold on the ribbon and pushing down on his shoulder into kneeling before her. “One and only.”

Eyes flashing, he smirked as his hands slid up her legs. “Yes. Forever.” he raised a leg, guiding it over his shoulder, so her foot could rest on the chair he once rested on.

Seeing where he was going, her mouth parted slightly. Blood heating at the idea. “Forever.” her hands took hold of the slick black horns that partially crowned him. Feeling the slick texture beneath her touch, her fingers fluttered along their length and curves. “Now, Hikaru, I think it’s time to please your wife.”

His fingers dug in almost painfully into her. “As my wife wishes.” he purred, kissing up her thigh, nuzzling into her heated flesh.

The first lick had her pulling him tighter to her via the hold on his horns, crying out as she threw her head back. Pleasure stabbed into her belly, heating her faster than any night curled in front of the fire place. “Hik- Hikaru!”

One hand slipped to join his talented, wicked, tongue to dip teasingly. The ribbon and his hair tangled between her fingers as she pulled tighter. When his lips turned to suction at her nub, her leg began to tremble.

Hikaru managed to pull away the slightest amount, chin glistening in the firelight as his gaze burned up at her. “So sweet, Pet.” his smirked was dark as his one hand was now petting and pinching at her clit as his other kept her raised leg stable. “Are you trembling? How cute.”

Managing to gather her wits, she glared down at him. He was constantly teasing, playing games or pulling tricks. The last one never on her, but still. Tonight, she had mentally promised herself to be direct and in charge, for once. “Get back to work, or I’ll be finishing this by myself.”

The idea of watching her pleasure herself seemed to trigger something in Hikaru, if his groan and shiver were anything to go by. “Pet… promise you’ll let me watch.” his tail flicked oddly before disappearing under him.

“Heh. Misbehave, and that’s all you’ll be getting to do. Looking, but no touching.” dropping her gaze further, she bit her lip when she spied his tail wrapped around his cock and stroking it in time to his now thrusting fingers. “No self pleasure, either.”

Eyes now appearing glazed, he smiled up at her. “You are simply perfect, Pet.” he pressed a kiss to her lower lips.

When his tongue got involved once again, her flush lowered. She could see the tops of her breasts turning pink. It didn’t help that she could see how Hikaru was constantly watching, his eyes smiling as his mouth was busy.

When his ‘kiss’ ended to move back to sucking and nibbling on her clit, she nearly tipped forward at the strong sensation. “Ah! Hik- wait!” her hips rolled when his fingers began to earnestly thrust into her.

It was the curling fingers in a ‘Come hither’ motion that had her entire body quickly heading towards the edge.

Gasping breaths panted against her, a light teasing touch against her near harsh thrusting fingers shocking dual sensation. “Right there?” his other hand moved from her leg to rest against her lower back. “That’s it, Pet, give it all to me.”

“Ah- ah- Hikaru!” her cry filled the room, drowning out the lewd sounds of Hikaru’s thrusting fingers.

If it hadn’t been for Hikaru’s forethought, otherwise she would have fallen over as her hips moved in tandem with his hand. Kagome honestly didn’t know if she wanted to continue or to pull away.

“Easy, Pet, easy.” wet kisses were pressed to her inner thigh. “I’ve got you.”

Eyes wide, she immediately began to push against the top of his head rather than pulling him closer when his teeth to nip and nibble high on her inner thigh. Plus the suckling of moist flesh, it hinted and teased and further pleasure she had just experienced, but was not near enough to actually soothe the fires now roiling through her blood. “...Hikaru…”

With inhuman grace, Hikaru rose up to stand before her. He reminded her of a wild animal, ravenous, having only just gotten a taste. A pink tongue, longer than any human’s, licked at the remnants of her come from his lips and chin. “Kagome.” his pressed an intimate kiss gently against her lips, forcing her to taste herself. “The night is young, wife. Let us continue this in bed.”

Hikaru was an incubus of the highest calibre, and more than willing to prove that to his wife over and over. Thankfully, Kagome seemed to have the stamina to last most of the night. Truly, they were perfect for one another.

She hadn’t been this happy in a long time, if not happier. The arm around her waist gave a squeeze, drawing her attention to the male walking along next to her. He was tall, handsome, and all hers. Hazel eyes turned to her, sparkling with joy and mischief. His auburn hair was, well, bed tussled, and he proudly kept it as such since getting up this morning. Another thing he kept since last night, her gaze dropped to his neck and seeing the ribbon caused her cheeks to warm.

The dark red truly looked amazing against his skin, hair and eyes. “You really should cover up.” she eyed the expanse of skin thanks to the buttons he left undone.

His smirk grew before he swooped down to press a kiss against the corner of her mouth. “Embarrassed or jealous?”

Huffing, she retaliated with a poke to his ribs. “...more along the lines of not wanting others seeing you.”

With a chuckle, he halted their steps, swinging her around to pull her into a hold. Her fingers curled into the rich fabric of his shirt, the vain being that he was wouldn’t allow for anything less than the best to be on his body. Even if they were more or less an illusion. His appearance was eye catching, even with the simple cuts and design of clothing. “Territorial, Pet?” he tipped her face up to meet with his.

Looking away as much as she could, but the hold on her chin kept her from turning away too far. “...maybe.”

“Hmm?” lips teasingly brushed against her own, causing memories from last night to stir to life. “What was that, Pet?”

Pouting up at him, his smile simply grew as he chuckled, she grumbled with a roll of her eyes. “Yes. Happy now?”

With a quick kiss and a hum that was accompanied by a pleased moan. “Very.” pulling away, he tucked her into his side once again, and they continued back on their way to the daily market. Partially, to get a new ribbon since she was not getting the old one back. Her cheeks heated once again as memories of last night once again began bubbling up.

“Careful, Pet.” his hand dropped a little lower on her waist and gave a meaningful squeeze.

Blue eyes cut to her side, brows furrowing slightly. “Behave. Or no dessert tonight.”

His own eyes widened at her threat, his own cheeks began to flush even as he pouted. “No fair.”

Huffing, she simply removed his arm from around her waist to loop with one of her own instead, so she could tug him so they could get their task done. As they continued on, they chatted about this and that, more like him stating everything he’ll get her and her telling him not to push it. How could they be disagreeing when they’ve only been together since last night? True, he’s been around shortly after she moved to this town, but they were now married as of last night.

“Kagome!” the familiar shout of her name just as they entered the market had them both pausing, turning to greet Kouga. It was somewhat entertaining to seem him stumble to a stop, his excited smile dropping for one of absolute confusion. “H-hi, Kagome. Who… who is this?” his gaze kept darting between their faces, where their arms were linked, and then back to their faces.

“I’m Hikaru, her husband!” the response seemed to have actually shattered the lively market as absolute silence filled the space after the declaration.

Kouga staggered back as if he had actually been struck. “Wh- wh- what? How? Why? When?!”

Hikaru once again took the lead on answering all questions. “Yes, been courting Kagome for nearly a year now and she finally agreed yesterday! We had a small, intimate, wedding last night.”

“Courting her for nearly a year?” Kouga whimpered, seeming to have missed the rest of the answer. He also seemed to be so in shock that he missed Ayame calling out his name and quickly approaching.

Ayame was all bright red hair and vivid skirts when she latched on the despondent male. “Kouga, you can’t keep taking off like that!” she pouted up at the man, tugging on his arm in an attempt to draw his attention to her. Following his gaze, her pout immediately dropped for a quick scowl before she put on an overly sweet expression and tone. “Oh, Kagome! I didn’t see you there!”

Kagome highly doubted that, but by this point, she was long past the point of caring at Ayame’s antics whenever Kouga was involved. At first, it had been confusing, as she had barely paid any attention to Kouga. It hadn’t been until Ayame started making accusations. Sadly, no matter how much she disputed any attraction towards Kouga, Ayame had been insistent.

“My, Kagome, who is this handsome stranger?” she fluttered her lashes, smile large and bright. But there was a look in her gaze when she turned to look at Hikaru, one that Kagome knew to be recognition with a bit of fear.

“This is Hikaru, my husband.” she barely blinked at the shock Ayame presented them with.

Though, as per Ayame’s nature, her shocked expression was quickly replaced with a bright smile. It was as bright as they usually were whenever she and Ayame crossed paths, but there was the tiniest possibility that the smile was also genuine. “Your husband! Oh wow, congratulations!” with her grip on Kouga’s arm, she began to tug and pull him from the direction they had both come from. “Well then, I think it’s best we leave you be. I’ve heard how newly-weds should be given time alone. Again, congratulations, enjoy the market!”

It was surprising to see Ayame, an individual that always did her best to present herself as a delicate young woman, drag off Kouga with little to no effort. As for Kouga, he continued to look at Kagome in shock.

“Lovely couple.” Hikaru offered, humming, when they once again began making their way through the market. “Somewhat childish, though.”

“Like you’re one to talk.” Kagome’s comment earned a chuckle.

They paused at few stalls, Hikaru insisting on purchasing everything that held Kagome’s interest. Finally, they came upon the stall that sold fabrics and cloths. Hikaru planted Kagome before him. “Alright, Pet, have your pick. You deserve the best.” he hugged her from behind and kissed the top of her head.

“Honestly.” huffing, her cheeks warmed at the seller’s amused comment. But, she indulged a little, picking out some that she always put off for getting what was more practical or never having enough money to get the more fashionable or luxurious ribbons. Then Hikaru stepped forward and purchased extra fabrics, apparently he was going to set her up with an entirely new wardrobe.

“Hikaru…”

A kiss quickly put a stop to her protest. “Hush, you deserve to be spoiled.” with another kiss, he quickly turned to the seller and paid. “Have it all brought to our home. But first!”

With exaggerated movements, Hikaru plucked the first ribbon she had picked out and tied it neatly around her neck. Fussing fingers were then slow and gentle in fixing her hair. Kagome had never felt so loved and tended to before. When Kouga attempted to be affectionate, it felt forced. With Hikaru, it was a bit like cat and mouse, where he would draw her in, have her engage.

“There, it looks all the more beautiful because you are the one wearing it.” his sweet words had her blushing all over again.

Smiling, her heart warmed at the tenderness that practically flowed from his gaze and expression. Even with all his mischievousness, or excited nature, it was seeing this softer side that had her finally, finally, admitting to herself that she did love him. After all, he had a nearly a year to woo her, as he had mentioned to Kouga.

Smiling up at him, she tugged his face down for a kiss. “Who knew you could be incredibly sweet. Explains your sweet tooth.”

Who know that her initiating a kiss would result in Hikaru displaying the cutest, sweetest, and goofiest smile she had ever seen him display. It was almost on par with Kouga whenever he thought he gained an inch, but oh so much better. Then, after a few moments, his eyes smouldered, his smile turned seductive.

The warm and spicy scent of him wafted with the next breeze, drawing her in as he leaned in closer. “Does that mean I can have my dessert tonight?”

Her own smile gained passion, her fingers trailing up his front to toy with the trailing up his front to tug on the ends of the lopsided ribbon tied loosely around his neck. “And then some. But first, I need to eat some actual food.” stepping closer, she leaned up to press a kiss to his grinning lips. “You tired me out with your demands for… more dessert last night.”

Goodness, he resembled a cat that not only ate the canary, but finished up the cream to boot. “Alright, alright. I would be a poor husband for denying my wife food. After, we’ll stop by the tannery.” he chuckled at her confused expression, how she could be so adorable with memories of the seductress from last night still fresh in his mind. “For proper collars.”

His laughter rang through the air at her sinking flush. Who knew, within a year of moving into this little town, she’d be married to an incubus.

Chapter 3: Witch Honi

It was simply perfect, in her honest opinion. Hands turning the dish currently before her, blue eyes narrowed the slightest bit as she looked at the finished product with a critical eye. Golden crust with just the lightest shine to it, a good choice to use a bit of egg before baking for this one, said crust was also proportionately cut and designed to allow everyone to see the delicious apples beneath. Yes, a perfect pie.

With a happy smile and a hum, she skipped to put it up on display with the other already finished baked goods. After making sure it was just right, she chanced a quick glance at the clock to see how much time she had before nodding her head. She had just enough time to wipe down the few tables before her best customer arrived.

Skirts twirling around her, she hummed, so happy that she once again got to enjoy her favourite season. She did prefer early autumn to be honest, where it was still warmer at night as well, but autumn in general was just so magical in her opinion. Not only that, everything that she needed for baking was also just so readily available and cheaper in the autumn.

The door to her little bakery opened, allowing the fresh autumn air to mingle with the sweet scents of her baked goods, quickly followed by the voice that belonged to her best costumer. “‘Gome!”

“Honi!” she spun to greet him, a bright smile that mirrored his own. “You’re just in time, as always!”

With a few skips, he quickly closed the distance between them to wrap his arms around her waist, to which she returned his greeting. And to think, she used to be scared of him, just because he was a sorcerer. Ah, witch. How could she forget he preferred to be called a witch?

Not only that, he was just too adorable!

Even though he was older than her, she doesn’t know by how much since he is a witch, he looked younger. His pale hair appeared fluffy and soft, large brown eyes in a youthful face. His shorter stature compared to her own petite one also aided in his youthful appearance. Claimed he got it from his mother, as his father had been a giant of a man. Or perhaps was it part giant?

However, she wasn’t fooled by his appearance, she had witnessed the rare occasions where he actually appeared and acted mature. The first time, some thugs had attempted to rob her, and the other time, it had been directed towards the doctor’s son. The second time, she wasn’t sure why, but it sure had her relaxing without having to worry about Hojo forcing all sorts of medicinal gifts on her.

“Is that apple pie I smell?”

Humming at being brought out of memory lane, she looked down at Honi who appeared to be still comfortably wrapped around her. “Ah, it is. But!” she raised a hand with a flourish, gently easing herself out of Honi’s hold, so she could scurry back behind the counter and display. “I have something special, and I want you to be the first to try it!”

His brown eyes widened, if that were at all possible, and seemed to quite literally sparkle. “Oh? Something new that no one else has tried yet! Yay!” light feet brought him to his usual spot, one that not only had the best view of the village square, but was also the most comfortable; sunny and warm when it was cold out, and sunny and cool when it was hot out.

“Now, like I said, this is new, so I’m not sure how you’ll like it.” she pulled out an already prepared plate, showing a few square cut pieces, dark golden looking, spongy and moist with a light sprinkling of powdered sugar on top. It was added to a tray with a tea pot and cup and some honey.

Seeing his expecting expression, Kagome couldn’t help but blush at his unwavering gaze. She easily recognized the excitement, he was always when she introduced him to a new recipe, and the hunger for said treat, but this time there was something new in his gaze that she couldn’t quite put her finger on.

“Try it first, and if you like it, I’ll tell you what it is.” she took the seat across from him, hands clasping in order to keep them still. Having him try something new was always a little nerve wracking, since his reaction to the one time he hadn’t liked something she presented him had left that much of an impression. “And I can sell it, because if it’s good enough for you, then I’ll know the villagers will love it just as much!”

As always, Honi removed his hat before beginning to eat, it was an essential part of his outfit as well as a way for others to identify him as a witch. The villagers would not have been so accepting of him, even if he had screamed for days on end that he was a good witch, if it had not been for her kindness towards him.

When he picked up one of the squares, her eyes zeroed on him, watching everything, so she wouldn’t miss a single reaction. Seeing his nose twitch the slightest amount when he took a sniff, she had to bite down on her lips, otherwise she might end up cooing or squealing at just how cute the action was.

“Hmm, smells sweet, but spicy too?” he turned his hand this way and that, as if trying to figure out how it could possibly be both.

Giggling, she motioned for him to continue on. “You’ll have to try it to know!” nerves at ease, she swore he did so to help calm her down. Every time too. Raising her hands, she rested her chin atop them, simply now content to watch and wait for his reaction and verdict.

“Okay, if you say so!” mouth opened wide, he took his first bite. At first there was no reaction, causing her heart to skip a beat, until his entire face lit up, and his cheeks took on an actual rosy hue. How sweet! “It really is sweet and spicy, but more like…” he stared at the square in his hand as he chewed, as if trying to figure out how to describe it. “It reminds me of that spice cake you made last year. It’s a sweet and warm sort of spice, not a hot and burning sort of spice.”

“Ah, you mean the ginger bread. Yeah, it is pretty similar, but this time I thought to try and add honey to sweeten it up a little.” head tipping to the side, she was content when he finished his first piece and went for a second. “I take it, it’s to your liking.”

Golden hair bounced as he nodded his head. “Yeah, it’s really-! Wait. Honey?” his hand froze before he could take a bite of his third piece.

Blushing, she turned to watch the villagers bustle about the few stalls in the village square. “Ah… hum. Yeah. You were the inspiration for this one.” feeling his stare made her nervous all over again, and her mouth began to run off with ideas of how much further she could go with this new recipe. “I was thinking of adding nuts; perhaps almonds, but I think walnuts would be better. Maybe raisins? Though not everyone really likes those. And perhaps toppings. Powdered sugar is good, but what about a cream or frosting? Maybe even honey if it-!”

Her face is turned and a soft pair of lips are pressed against her own, she can taste the lingering powdered sugar and spices as warm hands cup her even warmer cheeks. Blue eyes wide, she just manages to blink when she realized that Honi was so close to her because she was being kissed by him. Her blush grew hotter when she saw that there were flecks of gold in his brown eyes, a gold that reminded her of the honey she had used to sweeten the cake inspired by this very man.

Slowly, he pulled away, lips curling up in a smile. “You’re very sweet, Kagome, much sweeter than any cake I’ve ever had.”

Hearing him say her name properly, she was sure her entire face was resembling a tomato. “Hon-Hon…” voice wavering, a trembling hand was pressed to her lips as her mind attempted to come up with something, anything, to reply to his comment.

His eyes narrowed slightly, the smile tipping into a grin that just reminded her that he was in fact an adult and entirely male. Fingers trailed down her jaw to take hold of her chin, leaving a tingling sensation in their wake. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you were attempting to bewitch me, sweet Kagome.” his lips trailed against her cheek as he ducked in close to whisper in her ear. “It seems I was right about you the first time.”

A nip to her ear had her shaking in her seat, and it was only the rush of cool air that had her breaking out of whatever trance she must have been in. Standing to her feet, nearly tripping in her haste, she was a flurry of movement as she flew to the safety behind the counter to greet her next costumer. “He-hello!”

She made it a point to ignore Honi as she greeted her newest costumer, one that he returned warmly. “Ah, Kagome! I see your best costumer is already here!” the man waved at Honi, pausing when he spotted the remaining squares. “Oh, a new recipe?”

“Yes!” thankful to have the distraction, Kagome was ready to launch into explaining, only to have Honi derail her by butting in.

“Spiced honey cake!” Honi propped his chin in a raised hand, taking a break from enjoying the sweet treat to sip at his tea. “Kagome used it to confess her feelings for me, which I gladly accepted.”

Face once again burning, her heart stuttered when the man looked between Honi and herself. “Oh-ho! It’s about time!” a loud laugh filled the space as he watched Kagome bury her face into her hands. “Poor Hojo. Heard him say he was going to once again attempt to woo you.”

There was a loud crack, causing both to turn to Honi, though he smiled as he sipped at his tea.

Clearing her throat, Kagome turned back to the man. “R-right. What’ll be today, Ryan?”

“Ah, the usual. Do you also have that spiced bread? The wife has been craving it something fierce the last little while.” he leaned against the counter, watching her as she began packing the basket he brought with him. “Could I also have some tea and something to eat? Been a long day in the orchard.”

“Of course!” but before she could reach for the items that were Ryan’s usual, she paused when they floated over to a ready available table. “Oh, thank you, Honi!”

“No problem! Glad to help.” his smile turned a little devious that had her flinching, his eyes just glimmered. “But I would prefer you called me by that cute nickname from before!”

“Nickname?” Ryan sat down with a weary sigh, first taking a sip from his served tea. He appeared to be only too comfortable to be watching the proceedings, obviously entertained, much to Kagome’s embarrassment.

“Mmm, Kagome called me Hon-Hon! Don’t you think it’s cute?” he raised his cup, finishing it if only to wave his fingers, the teapot to refill it for him. With another wave of his fingers, the now filled basket left her hands and floated over to Ryan’s table.

“Please… stop.” she ducked behind the counter as the two of them laughed. While it was embarrassing, she was actually pleased. Honi likes her! Her of all people out of the entire village! Taking a few moments to gather her thoughts and breath, she stood back up. “Well, since I confessed my feelings to you with a whole new cake recipe, I’m expecting something similar from you in return.”

To witness the sudden shock on his face was absolutely priceless, she couldn’t help but giggle. Ryan seemed to agree as he began to laugh out. “I have a feeling that’ll be something worth paying to see!”

As for Honi, his expression soon was replaced, determination giving him that mature look once again. “I’m looking forward to the challenge, Kagome dear. You can be sure to expect it at the Harvest Festival!”

Despite blushing, she turned to busy herself. “I better be impressed, Hon-Hon.” She was sure she would be, along with the entire village, but she could now hardly wait, and he had only just declared his intent! Who knew her life would be so exciting, simply because she decided to open a small bakery.

While continuing to talk with Ryan, Kagome didn’t really pay much attention to Honi walking past, simply waving him on when he mentioned needing to use the restroom. She mostly just asked how the harvest was going, grinning when he promised her that she would get her delivery of apples. Already, her mind was wandering over all the items she could prepare.

“I’m just worried you’ll have too much this year.” Ryan rubbed as his jaw, face pensive.

“Too much?” perking up, she had to wonder if such a thing were possible.

“Yeah, despite the last few summers being unusually hotter and drier, this year’s harvest yielded quite a lot. While we’re all happy about this fact, we don’t think our warehouses are prepared to keep it all good for long.” he tapped at the table. “Maybe Honi might have an idea on how to help, since the village only purchased so much to help with the storing based on this year’s summer.”

Said individual bounced back into the shopfront, practically glowing as he took a seat once again. “Help with what?”

“Ryan was just mentioning how good this year’s harvest was despite the hot summer.” Kagome was just about to prepare another pot of when something brushed against the back of her legs. “Ack!”

“Huh? What’s wrong?” Ryan turned to her, concerned.

“Oh. I think Rina’s cat managed to sneak in a-GAIN!” her entire body froze when she felt hands pushed her skirts up, bunching them around her waist. Turning, she could only blink and stare at Honi crouched behind her, his normally innocent appearance was a devious grin as his hands made of show of lowering her panties.

A finger was pressed to his lips, shushing her, before his hands returned, sliding up her legs and easing them farther apart. Facing forward, cheeks flaming, she stared at the Honi-double that was happily nibbling on a square. She wasn’t that unfamiliar with the trick, he liked to pull it on visitors or traders that were being annoying to any villagers, and he just so happened to witness it.

“Ah.” Ryan returned to his own food and drink. “Older cats do prefer the warmth, but you should be careful that it doesn’t drag anything in here. And talk to Rina about that old beast.”

A hand pressed at her lower back, urging her to lean against the counter, and she could only blush all the harder knowing that she was on full display to Honi. “Ah-ha-ha! I’ve talked with her plenty of times, but she has just as much control over that cat as you do over the weather conditions for the orchid.”

Biting down on her lip, she made sure Ryan wasn’t paying attention as she shot a glare at the Honi-double as she attempted to swat the real one away. She couldn’t believe he would do such a thing, not only in the open, but while there was someone else present! Her hand was simply captured as teeth gave a nip. He bit her on the butt! Squeaking, she tugged her hand free to wave Ryan’s concern away.

“Yeah. So, Honi, do you think you could help us?”

The situation was entirely surreal, she had to bury her face in a raise hand to muffle the whimper as she was forced to feel all that Honi was doing to her. After messaging her thighs and behind for a few minutes, his fingers now began to toy and tease at her centre. Shivering at feeling him opening her wider for him, her entire upper body dropped to the counter when she felt his tongue drag against her flesh.

In all the time since she realized she had feelings for Honi, even before that for simply admiring him for being so open about being a witch, she never thought he was capable of something like this.

And he was so meticulous!

“Kagome is so sweet!” the Honi-double suddenly pipped up, smile bright, it was uttered in time with Honi’s hands clenching around her thighs, prying her legs farther apart once again.

“Un, that she is.” Ryan appeared a little confused at the sudden break in their conversation, when he turned his gaze towards her, concern began to blend in with his confusion. “You okay there, Kagome? You’re looking a little flushed.”

“Ah, she mentioned something about the miller. Looked like he might have been sick when he made his deliveries the other day. Maybe she’s sick too now.” the look the Honi-double was giving her may appear to have been concern, but his eyes held a look of longing, of hunger. Almost as if he was finding it unfair with Honi secretly pleasuring her!

“Oh, that’s not good.” his concern grew as he witnessed her tremble and whimper. “Maybe you should close up early today, possibly take the next day or two off, just to be sure.”

Attempting to keep a straight face, she choked on her tongue when fingers began to tweak and play with her clit, adding extra heat to the mounting pleasure building inside her. “I- I think I’ll… I’ll do just that.” slapping her hands over her mouth, her knees trembled as she felt herself on the edge of falling into the pleasure.

“Aw, that’s too bad.” the Honi-double stirred the last of his tea. “I was hoping to try these with some warm honey!”

Biting her lips, she had to hold back the glare she wanted to toss at the Honi-double, knowing that Honi was somewhat connected to said doubles. She knew, just knew, what he was openly insinuating with his words, and did not appreciate it whatsoever.

Ryan placed the money he owed on the table, “I’ll leave this here, I can’t risk bringing it home to Lisa.” grabbing the basket, he gave her a nod and did the same towards the Honi-double.

“Don’t worry, I’ll help her finish up!” with an eager wave, throwing her a wink at the quick glare she did throw this time, the Honi-double waited until Ryan left before closing the shop and flipping the simple sign at the door. “I’m surprised you lasted this long, Kagome dear!”

Collapsing against the counter, she now let out the cry that had been clawing at her throat, clinging to the edge as her legs could no longer support her weight. “Sh-shut up!”

“That’s not very nice.” the pout was teasing, though there was no hurt in the double’s gaze as he approached the counter, and also leaned against it from across from her. Cool fingers brushed her brow, pushing her clinging bangs so the double could watch her. “You really are sweet, I’m jealous of Master, but I get to see your pretty face like this instead!”

Just when she was at the edge, fingers thrust up in her clenching heat, throwing her off. “Ahn!” nails dug into the wood, her vision going white as the pleasure finally consumed her.

“So beautiful.” a thumb soothed along her lips as she panted for breath, nothing more than a trembling mess.

Honi finally stood, pressing himself against her as his fingers continued to tease her, prolonging the sensation. He snickered when she would twitch sporadically, even as he nuzzled his face in her hair. “Sorry, Kagome dear, I couldn’t help myself.” kisses were pressed behind her ear, giggling at her low moan.

“I can’t… I can’t believe you did that. Ryan could have caught us!” even while she was reprimanding him, her hips trembled and pushed back against his hand.

“Nah, I cast a distraction spell. And even if he approached, my cloak has an invisibility enchantment sewn into it.” he smiled against her ear when she let out a groan, seeing her struggle in keeping her hips still or attempting to pull away from his fingers.

“That wouldn’t explain why my skirts are bunched around my hips!” the anger was immediately kissed away by the double, that was mumbling about the lack of attention.

“He’s right, you really are beautiful like this.” chin dropped atop her shoulder, an action that was made possible since they were near the same height, which had always been an embarrassing fact most of her life. “But, you’re right that this is something we should move to somewhere more private, as I’m not satisfied with that small treat and now hungry.”

Sighing when he removed his fingers, it quickly turned into a squeak when she caught sight of him waving those wet and sticky fingers, which not only waved the complaining double away, but levitated her to follow after him to her bedroom. While she was grateful to not be on her feet, as her legs were still trembling, she was at a loss for words when her clothes were leaving her quicker.

“Ah, Honi?!” she bounced when she was dropped on the bed, quick to snatch her quilt and cover herself, sputtering when Honi was waving his own clothes away.

“I said I wasn’t quite satisfied with just that sample, I hope that’s alright?” he was all smiles as he climbed in next to her, grinning when he caught her lingering gaze as it strayed along his own form before snapping away.

“I wished you asked before!” lips pursed, voice squeaking in her embarrassment, still, she nodded her head in agreement. It was more or less a dream come true, her hopes of him feeling the same as she did for him made more than obvious.

He leaned forward, planting a rather sweet kiss compared to his earlier actions. Her cheeks heating when she realized that she wasn’t just tasting the lingering flavour of the spiced honey cake from earlier. When he pulled away, she pouted. “I still can’t believe you first thought I was a witch competing about territory!”

Snickering, he pulled in close again, whispering against her ear as he eased her quilt away. “I don’t think I was all that wrong. You did manage to bewitch me in the end!”

She knew, just knew, that it wouldn’t take long for the whole village to know that their favourite baker was now with their resident witch, especially when every harvest made all the baked goods all the sweeter with such a doting witch helping her along.

Chapter 4: Dullahan Kaoru

For as long as she could remember, there had always been a well tended to pumpkin patch just outside the village she lived in, only she never saw the individual that tended to the patch. At first, she assumed it was a community pumpkin patch, but she had never seen any of the villagers go anywhere near it. In fact, many of the adults constantly told the children to keep away. As such, rumours and ghost stories about the pumpkin patch were plentiful.

It was haunted by an old man that snatched up misbehaving children, only to bury them beneath the pumpkins. The larger the pumpkins, the more children were buried.

The pumpkins ate the dead. In fact, the patch appeared one night where an ancient graveyard once stood.

The land was cursed, those foolish enough to visit the land were bound to be struck a streak of bad luck. With all those scary stories, children often dared one another to visiting the pumpkin patch. Some even goaded others into snatching up a pumpkin if possible.

Growing up, it became a place where young lovers would go to in order to have secret trysts. It was close enough to the village that they could quickly return if need be, but offered just enough privacy to fool around.

As for herself, Kagome found it a perfect place for solitude to get away from the bustling village life. Especially Hojo. He was a sweet young man, having grown up from a sweet young boy. But his ideas and expectations for the future, involving her, were so… dull. It didn’t help that their mothers seemed to be all for their union. It was practically a done deal.

“My, that’s quite the heavy expression.” the voice drew her from her frustrating thoughts, drawing her gaze away from the pumpkins.

“Kaoru!” she smiled up at the young man.

It had been some years since they met, here at the very pumpkin patch and only here. Of all the people she’s met, Kaoru is the only person that she ever felt excited to meet. The stories he’s shared with her; from distant lands to fairytales and everything in between.

“It’s good that I caught you!” she brushed her skirts as she stood up, smiling as she handed him a basket full of various gifts and treats. “I brought this for you. Aunty Himari was sadly out of those little tarts you’re so fond of. But everything else should be there.”

His excitement was slightly dampened at the news, but he still eagerly accepted the heavy basket. He was quick to pull out some roasted almonds, sharing a few with her. “So, what brings you here this time? Want another story? Ear to listen to your woos?”

Nose scrunching, her hair tickled her cheeks as she shook her head. “No. I actually came to ask for a huge favour.” finishing the last of the almonds, she took a few moments to figure out how best to ask what she wanted, before deciding to just ask outright. “I was wondering if I could… hum, have a pumpkin.”

Kaoru instantly stilled, gaze sharp as he watched her intently. “Have a pumpkin, what for? You do know what the villagers think of these pumpkins, right?”

Nodding her head, Kagome observed the patch. The pumpkins were large this time of year, nearly resembling boulders in varying shades of orange. Vines with equally large leaves curled almost wildly between the pumpkins, and further still twisting trees spotted the patch. “Yeah, and that’s partly why I want one.” turning back to Kaoru, she offered a smile. “My need for one is twofold. One, the village is hosting a harvest festival soon, and I think your pumpkins are perfect to spruce up my stoop. And two, it’ll keep most of those wanting to court me well away. What with the reputation your pumpkin patch has and all.”

Kaoru watched her as he finished his own handful of almonds. His expression was contemplative, it was the most serious she had ever seen. “If you do something for me, you can have all the pumpkins you can carry.”

Perking up, she scooted in closer, practically bouncing to hear what he wanted. Or needed. “Sure! What is it that you need?”

“You have to carve a face in at least one of the pumpkins, doesn’t matter what size it is.” seeing that there was no smile, smirk or grin, Kaoru was very serious about this task.

“O-oh, okay.” brows furrowed, she stared at the pumpkins surrounding them. “Does… does it matter what sort of face?”

“No.” her gaze was drawn back to his when he took a hold of her hands. “You also need to put a lit candle in the carved pumpkin, this is just as important.”

Nodding her head, she stared at their hands, it was actually the first time they were touching. She had expected warmth, possibly hands rough from tending to the pumpkin patch. Instead, she felt like her hands were in the hold of something… fragile, the warmth was distant. Honestly, it felt like she was holding smoke. “Is… when does this need to be done?”

“The sooner, the better.” his thumb stroked over her knuckles, it felt more like a passing breeze than a solid touch.

“Alright.” the request was odd, but, Kaoru has never lied to her. Has never led her wrong or abused their friendship. So, if he was serious about this, then she would do as he asked. Smiling to lighten the mood, she made it a show of taking in the surrounding pumpkins. “So, do I get to pick which pumpkin, or do you already have one in mind?”

His smile was instant and bright, but more importantly, it was hopeful. For what, Kagome guessed she would learn soon enough.

“Actually, I have been eyeing one.” keeping a hold of one of her hands, he began to lead her closer to the edge of the pumpkin patch, in the direction of her home to be exact. When they arrived, he let her go to approach a single pumpkin, crouching down to pat the round fruit. “This one will be perfect.”

It was then that she noticed a few things. From where they were, they had a perfect view of her little home and garden. As for the pumpkin, it oddly had the same auburn colouring as Kaoru’s hair, and was just slightly larger than his own head.

“Hmm, okay.” she watched as he quickly departed to grab an axe and take care of removing the pumpkin from the thick vine. Task done, she accepted the sizable pumpkin, huffing in surprise under it’s weight. “Again, the type of face doesn’t matter?”

“Not at all, just so long one is done. And don’t forget the candle!” his eyes seemed to flicker, almost like a candle's flame, but she chalked it up to the setting sun and the leaves shifting in the light breeze.

“A-alright.” hefting the pumpkin in her hold, she offered Kaoru a bright smile. “Well then, I better get going if I want to get this done as soon as possible.” looking off to the side, she mumbled under her breath of having to get some more candles.

Kaoru simply assister her through the rest of the patch and waving her off once she left it’s boundaries. Another odd thing about Kaoru, he never left the pumpkin patch. He always maintained that, since it was his land, he needed to keep an eye on it. Which, sounded reasonable, even though she had entertained the idea that the land was cursed and Kaoru was now bound to it for some reason.

Later that evening, Kagome eyed her… well, she didn’t know what to call it. The carved pumpkin. It had taken some time to figure out how best to do it, the skin offering some substantial resistance, the pulp thicker than she had expected. She had also not at all been prepared for the slimy strings that held so many seeds. As for the face, it was simple, perhaps a little crude in design, but it was a face. At a rather fine one for her first time carving a face in a pumpkin.

Wiping her hands clean of the last of the pumpkin juice and sticky strands. “Okay, now for the candle.” quickly lighting one, she carefully placed the candle in the pumpkin, smiling at the competed results. The eyes flickered, making it seem as if they were actually following her. As for the smile, the sharp teeth looked sharper with the backlight. “Now, where to put you.”

Picking it up, she looked at the window next to her door, but sadly, the windowsill was not wide enough to support the pumpkin’s size. “Stoop it is then.” thankfully, there was a little stool next to her door. It looked quaint, if she did say so, and the candle offered some light, even if it was inside a pumpkin. Now, she would, hopefully, not be bothered for the next couple of days during the harvest festival. She always found it funny how Hojo was absolutely horrified of the pumpkin patch and everything to do with it. He had even insisted she move to a different house since hers was so close to the pumpkin patch!

Returning to the table, she gathered the now soggy strings and seeds. With a shrugged, she moved to her back window and dumped the mess outside. Now she was done for the day and looking forward to some peace and quiet. Especially from Hojo.

No sooner had the thought left her mind, she was concentrating on making herself some late tea, did a knock sound at her door. Sighing, Kagome put her kettle down and made her way to the door. “Coming.”

The knocking picked up once again, more insistent. “Coming!” hurrying her steps, she wretched the door open when the knocking started up for a thirst time. “What?”

Hojo stood across from her, face pale and sweaty, as he kept glancing at the pumpkin next to her door. So much for a repellent. Though, if this interaction took any longer, Hojo would more than likely pass out.

“Hojo, why are you here so late?” she was frustrated, no matter what she said to him, he completely ignored it.

Despite his sickly complexion, he stood up taller as he cleared his throat. “K-Kagome, I saw th-this pumpkin and got-got worried.”

Sheesh, did he just get paler when glancing at the pumpkin again?

“Hojo, it’s a pumpkin.” honestly, she never understood the whole thing this village had against the pumpkin patch or pumpkins. No one had actually got hurt anywhere near the pumpkin patch, save for the most ardent of young lovers wanting some privacy, and herself. “A harmless, pumpkin.”

A whimper escaped him when the candle flickered. “I- I, still, be careful!” he quickly shuffled back from the door and the raised pumpkin. Nearly falling over in his hurry to leave. “Lov- it’s a lovely evening!”

Blinking, she didn’t even bother to wave when he finally took off running. Shaking her head, she closed the door and went back to her tea. A cup of tea in hand, she moved to her comfy chair to wind down before going to bed.

A few sips in, a knock sounded through her home. Though this time, it came from her back door. Sighing, she put her tea down and moved to the back door. “Hojo, I am seriously not in the mood for this, tonight.”

Opening the door, her heart skipped a few beats when she saw that it wasn’t Hojo. Hojo, while he did his best to dress neatly, he didn’t have this fine of clothing. It not only looked finer, but seemed to be from a time past. But what startled her, got her stepping back at the unknown, was that instead of a head, was a pumpkin lit from within. And not just any pumpkin, but the one she had carved earlier that evening.

The figure was tall, slim limbed. Save for the pumpkin instead of a head, being such finely dressed like that would earn immediate respect, but the lit pumpkin gave her pause. Then the figure stepped forward, one leg now within her home. Not only was this figure stepping into her home, but pumpkin vines followed in after.

“...Kagome…”

Eyes flying up from the quickly spreading vines to the head, her stomach somersaulted when she realized this figure knew her name. Not only that, the voice sounded familiar, causing her to pause.

But in that moment, vines came straight at her, curling around her legs and keeping her in place. Rather than falling at the sudden restraints, the vines quickly grew and reached to support her weight, as well as restrain her arms.

“...you kept your promise…” A gloved hand brushed against her cheek, tucking some hair behind her ear.

And that’s when it hit her. “...Kaoru?” she could hardly believe it. This was Kaoru? How? It didn’t make any sense? She honestly couldn’t understand it. “I’m… I’m so confused. I don’t understand. What’s going on?”

“I’m a headless spectre, a dullahan to be specific. Ish.” gloved hands were gentle in fixing her hair, tucking stray strands of hair behind her ears. But his hands remained, petting her hair and stroking her cheeks. “And you kept your promise.”

He leaned forward, and at first she felt the texture of pumpkin skin. An instant later, however, she felt lips, warmer and more solid than every other time Kaoru had held her hands in some form. Not only that, it was the softest kiss she’s ever received. “Thank you. You will never know how much I wanted this.”

“I… I still don’t understand.” she was not following anything he said.

“By taking the pumpkin and carving a face on it… you freed me from the boundaries of the pumpkin patch.” he cupped her cheeks, the smile on the pumpkin seemed to grow warmer and brighter. “And… I want to take this chance to say, I want to be with you.”

If it was at all possible, Kaoru’s pumpkin face was… blushing? Shaking her head, she could only smile despite her confusion. “And you couldn’t state this in the pumpkin patch, because of the cruse. Wait, the curse is real?”

“Curse wise, yes, but only for me. And again, yes, because it would be unfair for you to ask for something I couldn’t keep my word on.” his voice was tender, almost fragile. “So, may I stay with you?”

Chuckling, Kagome nodded her head. “As if you need to ask.”

No sooner when she agreed, his arms were wrapped around her. Again, at first she felt a pumpkin pressed against the side of her head, but in an instant she felt Kaoru’s hear brushing against her ear. “Thank you, Kagome, so much.”

“...Kaoru.” her whimper was one of confusion. Tugging on the vines, she wanted to reach out to him. “Please, release me?”

He pulled back, and she would never understand how she could possibly know, but the heat from his eyes were smouldering as he stared at her. “But Kagome, dearest, you looked devine restrained and at my mercy.”

His hands trailed from her cheeks to her neck, thumbs stroking her thrashing pulse. The gentle touch, the inability to move or touch back, his comments had her flushing, and she felt arousal stir to life. “...Kaoru?”

“Shush, dear, I’ll take care of all your needs.” carefully, and with the help of the vines, he sensually underdressed her until she was bare and squirming beneath his touch. “Truly, a woman deserving of being worshipped.”

His hands stroked and petted, only all save for where she wanted, needed him. “Stop teasing me! Please”

“You beg so beautifully.” after some more smoothing strokes along her sides and belly, he removed his gloves, tossing them aside. “I’ll hear more before the night is done. That, I promise you.”

Without warning, he was cupping her. At first just holding her intimately, both shuddering at the touch, before his fingers began to move. Sliding back and forth, petting and spreading the dewy stickiness until she could hear the soft squelching. It was raunchy, and not nearly enough.

“Already so wet!” he bowed his head, resting against her shoulder. “Kagome, before we go any further, you will use the word lantern to tell me when it becomes too much or hurts, do you understand?”

She was nodding her head, but her concentration was on moving her hips in time to his fingers. Apparently, though, it wasn’t enough for Kaoru, as he quickly pinched her clit. She shuddered, warmth spreading from her clit throughout her entire body, sobbing when she felt her first release brought on by Kaoru’s hands.

“Fuck!” Kaoru’s voice was ragged, a sticky hand raised between them, much to her embarrassment. “You, my dear, are a feast. But first, you will use the word lantern for to let me know to stop, agreed?”

Nodding her head, she froze when he began to pull away and scrambled to agree. “Stop, don’t, I mean!” taking a breath, she shivered as the arousal began to simmer once again. “Yes, I understand. Lantern is our stop word.”

Vines gently moved along her body, prying her legs open and securing her arms behind her back. A sound from Kaoru’s throat, a mix between purr and growl, had her hips straining towards him.

“Since you appear so needy, I’ll give you what you need.” he was slow and deliberate in undressing, her eyes feasting on his form, gaze dragging along every line, curve and dip since she currently couldn’t do so with her hands as she wanted. “We’ll work on your training later. Tonight,” he trailed off as he released his cock from his britches.

A chuckle answered her whimper as she watched his hand language stroke his length. It was, beautiful. Not that she actually had any to compare it too, but it stirred her in a way she knew it was beautiful. It was long, tapered fingers, pale compared to the near angry flush. The crown glistened, and she had the desire to taste him, take him into her mouth.

Her thoughts and desires surprised her, their nature entirely new, but felt only too natural. But she wanted him like she had never wanted any other. The things he was inspiring in her, if it were any other situation with any other person, she knew she would by blushing and pushing those desires away, deeming them inappropriate.

But with Kaoru, she wanted it all, and all he could give her.

“Another time, dear Kagome.” she saw his fingers squeeze the crown of his length. “While the idea of having your lips wrapped around my cock, not tonight.”

Had she voiced her desires? Oh, heavens, please no. But still, the promise of it going to happen some time in the future had her flushing all over again. “Please, Kaoru.” she squirmed as he continued to stand there, stroking himself before her.

“Yes, beg for it. Tell me what you want.” he stepped forward, the vines keeping her in place so he could use his hands as he pleased. Such as pinching her nipples with one hand, and he pushed his cock to press against her clit, brushing and rubbing.

“You! I want you!” her sob echoed around them as she struggled for more.

“You already had me, since the very beginning.” he continued to tease her. “I want to hear what you want from me. What you want me to do.”

Biting down on her lip, she tore her gaze from his face to look down. Watching him tease the both of them, his length growing more and more sticky, glisten in the light from the fire light and glow from the pumpkin head. “...in me…”

Kaoru hissed, “Yes.” his hand left her breasts, dropping to her lower lips and spreading them. “...so beautiful…” then he began to push.

There was a minute sensation of pain, a new stretching sensation. But it was immediately replaced by a sensation that stirred her arousal. Her entire body shivered. “More. Please, more.”

“A moment, I- I need a moment.” his voice trembled the slightest, his hands squeezed her hips as his chest heaved with each harsh breath. A strangled laugh escaped him when Kagome wriggled her hips to the best of her ability within his hold, as well as the vines holding her up.​​ “Ka- Kagome, you need to stop.”

“Can’t… feel you feel so good… need more.” the whine was breathy, Kagome’s cheeks flushed as she stared up at him. “Kaoru!”

Hips snapping out of his control, Kaoru cursed under his breath as he fell into the sensation, drawing out broken versions of his name from Kagome. She couldn’t stop praising, saying his name, or pleading for more, even as the vines around her thighs chafed slightly as they worked in tandem with Kaoru in pulling her into his thrusts.

Her legs shook as the pleasure began to build, deeper this time, and so much hotter. “Oh, oh!” her entire body shook and trembled when she fell over again, the pressure snapping. Yet, Kaoru kept thrusting in her, through her release, pounding into her that it made the pleasure boarder on the pain.

Skin tugged painfully as she attempted to reach out for him, to pull him in closer or push him away, but the vines continued to restrain her. The strain of her latest release basically had her lolling in Kaoru’s hold and the vines support. It was an odd perspective to see her home upside-down while she was being dominated so thoroughly.

“Eyes on me.” a hand took hold of her throat, not squeezing threateningly, just enough pressure to let her know he was serious about his demand. “Good girl, watch me as I wring one more out of you.”

Whimpering, she struggled to keep her eyes open to watch Kaoru. His thrusts were powerful, reaching as deep as her soul. As she did so, the vision of Kaoru’s face shimmered into existence, replacing the carved pumpkin. His face and hair were washed in a pale eerie candlelit glow, washing the richness of his auburn hair, dimming of his vivid eyes.

Still, she could make out his dishevelled hair, how it stuck to his brow. His cheeks were flushed, his lower lip appeared swollen and split. But it was his eyes, they were locked with her own and blazing with such passion that she felt herself tipping once again. “Kaoru.”

“You close?” his hand left her neck, tweaking a nipple as it continued lower. His ‘grin’ felt so lascivious when she nodded, since she was unable to voice it. He chuckled when he began to pinch and tweak, and pinch her clit. “Good girl. But hold it. Can you hold it?”

“Mm-yeah?” the pleasure was deep and sharp, winding her up tighter. “B-but I can’t-!”

“Close? Hang on.” he grunted, fingers thrumming as he wound her tighter and tighter and closer and closer. “Alright, be a good girl and give me the last one.”

Crying out Kaoru’s name, her body bowed and contorted as much as she was able. It was a tidal wave, washing over and through her, drowning out her ability to see and hear. She felt shattered and whole, but overall, she felt safe cherish, and loved.

She came back to herself as Kaoru was pulling out. The sound was loud and raunchy, and despite how exhausted she was from how hard Kaoru rode her, feeling herself leaking had her cheeks flushing fiercer. “...Kaoru…”

“Give me a moment.” his hands were stroking her hips and thighs. “You nearly killed me, and the sight of you strung up and thoroughly dominated is absolutely beautiful.”

Smiling, she looked up at him, his face was still very much present to her. “You’re beautiful too.”

His gaze snapped to hers, complete shock and surprise. “What?”

Giggling, Kagome cooed at the adorableness. “I can see you. I don’t know why, but now I can see you completely.”

Swooping in, his lips were quickly pressed against her own. It was so sweet and tender, just like Kaoru was whenever she visited the pumpkin patch. As the kiss continued, the vines retreated to allow Kaoru to hold her completely. He smirked when her legs gave out from under her. “Let’s take this to bed, hmm? More comfortable.”

“If you mean for sleep, then yes, I’m exhausted.” her arms wrapped around his neck when he picked her up, allowing her to take comfort in his hold. “You’ll… you’ll stay, won’t you?”

“As if I’d be anywhere else.” lips pressed a warm kiss to her brow. “Not getting rid of me that easily.”

The following morning was a cosy and lazy one. Honestly, Kagome had never felt so, gooey, safe, and loved in a very long time. As for Kaoru, he was currently enjoying some of the breakfast he had run to collect from the market.

Her cheeks warmed at the memory of a kiss pressed to her brow when she stirred, and he told her to go back to sleep with a quick reassurance that he would be back.

“Have I told you how beautiful you look in the morning light?” he pushed her breakfast back towards her, interrupting her much appreciated time to admire his own beauty.

“No, I don’t think you have.” she smiled around the sip of tea. “But, don’t stop on my account.”

He laughed, reaching over to curl some of her hair around some of his fingers. “Well you are. Just as beautiful as you were last night.” he laughed again when her blush returned and she pointedly looked away to concentrate on her breakfast.

A gentle tug on her hair had her looking back at him, cheeks somewhat stuffed with food. Still, Kaoru pressed a kiss to her cheek. “I love you, Kagome.”

“And I you.”

Chapter 5: Vampire Kyoya

Normally, she was not one for such events, but this one allowed for everyone to simply enjoy the night. A masquerade ball. Most balls were tedious, where she suffered biting laughs, cutting words, and pitying looks, all because she was on the lowest rung of high society.

Her family were landowners, yes, but they were modest. They earned modestly, lived and spent modestly. Her cousin that accompanied her to tonight’s event, Kikyo, lived a little more lavishly than herself and encouraged her to do so, if only for tonight, and to truly enjoy the ball.

And she had. It was easier with everyone wearing masks, making people second guess who was who. There was no use of family standing, of family wealth, of connections to bully or out peacock each other. Instead, it was a sea of fabrics, swashes of colour, and every creature from past and nightmare masking every member of high society.

She herself went as a raven, much to Kikyo’s bemoaning. She didn’t, or couldn’t, understand why, as the ball gave them the opportunity to become anyone, as she herself decided to go as the red Queen of Hearts. The white and red did suite her, but Kagome was happy with the blacks and feathers. It made it easier for her to blend in the shadows when she needed a break from dancing or talking.

It did however garner the attention of another guest, he was dressed similarly in blacks, though his costume had dark silver embellishments that contrasted with the blacks and mirrored his own unearthly silver eyes. A wolf.

Whenever he was not dancing with her or at her side to have a pleasant chat, she felt his eyes on her the entire night. They burned when she danced with others, like a possessive weight that draped around her shoulders in a passionate caress that had her shivering and yearning to be back in his arms.

“Ah, I have you again, my little black bird.” his smile was sensual, eyes flashing in the low candlelight as his arms curled around her waist.

Smiling herself, she followed his lead as he spun her back onto the dance floor. “Surely, there are others to dance and converse with besides myself.”

“There were, but you alone have aroused my interest. A feat many have attempted and failed.” his words purred into her ear as he leaned in closer. “I find myself loath to be apart from you for but a moment.”

Laughing, she watched him as they spun about in graceful moves across the floor. “Would you think so otherwise, were this a different event that did not allow for masks? Perhaps it’s the unknown, the danger of not knowing one's dance partner, that makes me so intriguing.”

He gave a nod of his head as his arm pulled her a little tighter to him, though still acceptable as they were in the presence of others. “All Hallows Eve does tend to offer such, are you saying, you enjoy danger? Dancing with the unknown?” teeth gave a brief flash, she was sure she caught sight of something sharp in his smile.

“It does have a… certain appeal.” her gaze was for some reason fixated on his lips, they were perfectly shaped, masculine, and curled as they were, they reminded her of some forbidden fruit. They were hiding deep secrets. “However, it is for this night alone. Come dawn, all will be as it once was. A true facade, a well practised masquerade for the whole world to watch.”

Without any words, he directed them off the floor, guiding her on silent footsteps. “And if you could keep this night forever?”

She sighed at the idea, the dream of living freely. “A lovely fantasy, to be sure. However, it is a dream, and it will forever remain a dream until the next year should there be another masquerade.” she didn’t pay much attention to where they were walking, there were a few others conversing in the quieter alcoves that lined the hallway.

Sooner rather than later, she found herself further away from the party, the sound of music and the guests barely heard in their own shadowed corner. “And if I told you there was a way?” his silver eyes were shining now, and there was no candlelight that she could say were the cause of playing tricks.

They hypnotized her, breath catching as her heart trembled the deeper he guided them into the shadowed corner. “I… I…”

“I can hear your heart racing.” fingers traced down her neck, resting atop her breast just above her now wild heart. The touch had been so light yet still held passion that it had her cheeks flushing. “It sings to me, draws me.”

A gasp was trapped in her throat when his lips parted and her eyes caught sight of the fangs that had been teasing her all night thus far. Eyes widened when her gaze flew up to his burning eyes. “...impossible…”

“I’ve been watching you, longer than this night alone.” his hand tipped her chin up to face him directly, his thumb smoothing along her bottom lip only to trace back down her neck along her thrashing pulse, daringly following the line of the dress. The cut was a modest one for an evening gown, and yet she felt naked beneath his gaze and touch. “Never before has one tested my wills, my hold over my hunger as you have, Kagome.”

Shivering, she didn’t know if it was from fear of knowing his true nature or from his passionate words and touch, she could only listen and allowed herself to be moved. Her arms were pulled to wrap around his neck as his own hands cupped her cheeks beneath her feathered raven mask. “You appear to know me, I have yet to learn your name.”

The smile that curled his lips this time, allowing his fangs to flash in the leaking moon light from a distant window, was one of victory. “I must apologize in advance.”

“Apologize?” her voice was breathy as he leaned in, his own breath curling around her neck as her chin tipped up to make room.

“I’m afraid I’ll have to mar this lovely neck of yours in more ways than one. But I will endeavour to make up for it, my dear.” lips teased her with every word he spoke, breath warm though it was quickly chilled. “I will have you scream my name to the point where all you can do is whimper.”

Shuddering when she felt his tongue, she clutched at him, even though some part of her attempted to remind her how this was wrong. That this all had to be a trick. “Your name?”

Fangs nipped at her, drawing a sigh that had him pulling them tighter together. “Kyoya.” and then, with a gentleness that clashed with the fairy tales of his kind, he bit.

Fangs sinking into her neck eliciting a physical response that sent pleasure unlike any she ever felt rushing through her. One hand gripped his hair as the other clawed down his back. “Kyoya!”

She fell into his embrace with his name on her lips, clutching at him as he drank his fill and darkness swallowed her.

Every pull against her neck tugged at something deep below her belly, her hips bucking as if in search for something she could not quite understand. He encouraged this, a hand sliding down her back and pulling her flush against him, his own hips mirroring her moves. Whimpering at the feeling of something, her corset hiding something hard and hot when it pressed into her belly, her nails scratched at the fine hairs of the back of his neck.

“Kyoya…” her gaze was heavy when he pulled away, oddly transfixed at the sight of her blood staining his lips.

“I can smell you. Sweeter than the call of your blood.” he was panting, his cheeks flushed for the first time this entire night.

A shiver raced down her spine when she felt some of her blood tickle down her neck, his gaze following it until it disappeared beneath the neckline of her dress. Before she could utter another word, she caught how he quickly bit down on his own lip before claiming her own in a passionate kiss.

The coppery tang of blood didn’t throw her off, though the slight cinnamon spice confused her, nor the sudden intrusion of his tongue passing her lips to curl expertly with her own. It did distract her from his hands, fighting with the skirts of her gown until his hands were gripping her thighs, nails tearing through the soft cotton of her underpants that quickly became a shredded mess at their feet. Her privates were exposed to the cool air, leaving her a shivering mess in his arms.

When his fingers trailed up her thigh, she pulled back with a soft cry, earning a low groan from Kyoya. “Such heat, such passion.”

Heat began to boil beneath her belly when his fingers began to tease between her thighs, her legs trembling and feeling weak in the knees. Her nails caught in the fabric of his jacket as her hips shook at the mounting pleasure. When she felt his fingers teasingly wiggle inside her, a knee jerked up and her leg automatically wrapped around his arm, attempting to trap him to ensure he continued.

“Fear not, my dear, I have no plans of stopping.” lips trailed across her cheek, teeth nipping around an earring.

“Ah- Kyoya!” turning her head, she suckled on his lower lip, wanting more direct contact rather than all these layers of fabrics between them.

Chuckling, he groaned when she bit his lip. “It appears I’ve awakened a hunger in you as well.” his fingers were now thrusting, creating the most delicious friction that she wanted to continue forever. “Worry not, I am only too happy to help sate your needs.”

His tongue quickly began to mimicking his fingers, leaving her dizzy and clinging to him as her world shattered. “Kyoya!”

A snarl answered her, along with the sound of fabric tearing and buttons bouncing across the floor. Her leg wrapped tightly around his hip, her own bucking at the blinding pleasure that coursed through her and yet felt off.

“A moment, dear one.” his hand fought with the weight of her skirts once again until he gripped her thigh to pull her tighter to him.

That was when she felt it, his manhood scalding against her own drenched sex. “Please, Kyoya, I need...!” she drew him down to her, but instead of his lips, she decided to nip at his neck, moaning at his shuddering groan as he merely teased them both rather than give her what she wanted, no, needed at this point.

“It will hurt, but only for a moment.” a few more teasing brushes had her actually growling, his low chuckles only spurred her on.

Then, with a swing of his hips, they were one. It was painful, but not in the way she imagined. It was more like she was full and had stretched unused muscles at the same time. Still, it had been sudden enough, she bit down on Kyoya’s neck in response. They stood still for a few heartbeats until Kyoya slowly pulled back and just as slowly pushed back in.

With each push and pull of his hips, her tongue brushed against the bite she left behind, tasting his oddly spicy and sweet blood.

“Yes, dear one!” his hips picked up speed, quickly replacing the low painful throbs with the pleasure he had brought her before. “Delicious and perfect.”

Ripping her head back, she ignored the pins in her hair, as her back slightly banged against the wall behind her. Head lolling to the side, she panted and attempted to hold onto the sensation he was brining her. Unknowingly, she clenched down on his thrusting length, purring at his shiver.

“Wicked tease.” fangs were once again teasing her neck. “Eternity will never be boring with you at my side.” he bit down again, drawing from her blood in turn with his thrusting hips.

His pace slowed, he chuckled at her whimper, at her muttering whimpers for more. More speed, more power to be put into his thrusting hips. The movements were slow and gentle, and were she not drowning in the need to feel near all consuming pleasure, she would notice the adoration in his silver gaze, the loving nature behind his movements. Sadly, she was consumed but what he had awakened in her, too far gone to see how he watched her.

Those silver eyes had a red haze, watching her blossom into something new, her humanity being shed. In its place something new was being born, something more primal, and it was breathtaking.

“Ooh!” legs tightened around his waist, her belly tightened even though it felt too soon for her. “Not yet, please not yet!”

Kyoya’s chuckle against her neck only spurred her pleasure. When he pulled away, his scalding tongue followed the few trails of blood. “Yes.” the low hissing of his voice, the harsh thrusting, and the sudden laughter from further down the hall surprised her into tripping over the edge.

Twitching in his hold, she shuddered when a heat unlike any other blossomed and spread through her entire body, from the top of her head all the way down to the tips of her toes. Some of which she was sure was the heat of Kyoya’s seed. They stood there, both panting and basking in the glow of their passions.

“You beg so beautifully. I will enjoy hearing more this night yet.” he kissed where he bit her, lips tender as he slowly pulled away from her. “And how you cling to me!”

Moaning, both at the loss of him and the pleasure that zinged through her, she watched as he watched her through heavy lidded eyes. Her cheeks flamed when she realized where his gaze currently was, no doubt she was a mess, she felt sticky and wet, but with how he continued to hold her thighs open, there was not much she could do other then clench her hands in the skirts of her gown. “Kyoya…”

With reverence, he assisted in lowering her back to her feet, lips curled in a smug smile when she collapsed into his hold. “Easy, love, I have you.” he chuckled at her blush, nuzzling against her neck before placing a chaste kiss to her cheek. “Now come, it is time to go home.”

Arms curled around her, the shadows swallowing them both, leaving nothing behind but a few stray buttons, torn cotton and some fallen feathers that caught in the breeze from an open window that danced away any evidence of them having ever being in that alcove.

Chapter 6: Werewolf Mori

Stopping at the sight before her, she blinked at the latest addition to her home, a picket fence that now safeguarded her garden. It wasn’t the first change to her small home, but they still managed to surprise her at how quickly they were done.

Hearing rustling, her grip on her basket tightened, the looped handle digging almost painfully into her chest as she clutched it closer to her stomach.

He was tall, taller than anyone she’s ever met in her life, and with his broad shoulders and slightly wild appearance he made for a very imposing person. Short choppy locks were slightly plastered to his brow, no doubt from working in putting up the fence.

“Ah, Mori!” smiling, her posture eased, she still always wondered why he continued to stick around. “Thank you, I really do appreciate it, though you didn’t really need to.”

Dark eyes slid from her to the new fence. “It was nothing.” a grunt left him as he readjusted the fallen log, no doubt he would be turning it into firewood.

Sighing, she shook her head. No matter what she said, he continued to stick around and help out. “Well, when you’re done, there’s fresh bread. We also have jam and cheese too!”

He eyed the basket when she lifted her basket. “Ah.”

“A man of few words.” shaking her head, she patted him on the arm as she passed. “Still, help yourself when you’re done!” she laughed as she entered her small cabin, immediately putting away the goods. No sooner, did she go to check her small drying room, checking on the herbs and flowers. It was a good business, her herbs were the main supply for medicine and teas, so her cabin was in the perfect location as what she couldn’t grow in her garden could be found in the woods.

Still, there were a few that thought her a witch for choosing to live outside the village, for making ‘concoctions’. Chuckling, she remembered how some younger girls twittered and giggled at the idea of Mori being some sort of summons. Yes, he appeared suddenly out of nowhere, injured and seemed only too content to sticking around her and her home.

Seeing something from the corner of her eye, she paused at the sight of Mori chopping firewood. Humming, she froze when he paused and quickly shucked off his simple blue shirt. Eyes widened when he continued with the chore, her hand crushing the herbs she had been inspecting, as she watched the shifting of muscles with every swing of the axe.

When he suddenly turned, lifting a cup of water from a table that sat just below the window, her cheeks flamed when he raised a brow at catching her watching him. “Eep!” she instinctively ripped the bundle from its hook, hissing as she fumbled in attempting to save the herbs.

Ducking down, she let out a pitiful moan and buried her face in the apron tied to her waist. Why? Why did he have to-! Whimpering, she cleaned up the now destroyed herbs, she would have to go back out into the woods for fresh ones. Throwing the destroyed herbs into a pail, she went back for her basket. “Mori? I’m going to go gather some herbs, I shouldn’t be too long.” her cheeks warmed once again when she realized he was still shirtless, instead, she offered a quick wave and rushed past him. The sooner she got this done, the quicker she could return before night fell.

It didn’t take long to get where she knew the herbs in question grew, but she had heard of a wild animal that had been stalking the woods near her home and the village, so she didn’t want to be out longer than necessary. Gathering what she needed, and a little extra just in case she had a repeat as she was sure it would happen again sooner rather than later, she failed to realize the heavy rustling nearby.

That is, until a deep roar sent her scrambling. Eyes wide, she searched for whatever creature it was, freezing when black eyes and glistening white were what she saw from the bushes before feet began pounding into the earth. Just as the creature jumped at her, another intercepted it, her heart pounding when both flew out of the clearing. All she could hear were the scuffling of the two fighting, rage filled roars and pain filled squeals, and then silence.

Trembling as she reached for her basket, an instinctive need to clutch onto something, she relaxed when Mori stepped back into the clearing. “Mori!” his form was broader, muscles more defined, fur covering most of his upper body, hands ending in claws, features touched by the wolf of his nature. A sort of partial transition.

Seeing the gash that rand down from shoulder to hip, no doubt from the tusks from the wild boar, she let out a gasp and rushed towards him. “You’re injured!” hands frantic, she quickly removed her apron, dabbing at the wound. “Oh, let’s return and clean you up.”

“Ah, wait.” his gaze was soft on her, the brush of his claws against her cheek even softer as he fixed her hair and tucked it behind her ear.

Kagome could only blink when he walked back through the bush, hands twisting the now soiled apron. Her posture relaxed when he returned, this time the defeated boar slung over his shoulder. With a shake of her head, she stuffed her apron into her basket, picked it up to free a hand that could grasp at Mori’s. The fur didn’t hinder the heat that seemed to steam off of him in waves, and made the tickling pricking of his claws a tantalizing contrast.

The walk back was quiet save for the last lingering bird songs of the forest, Mori’s presence offering silent protection and comfort. When they arrived, she jumped when he began to pull away. “What about your wound?”

He offered a smile, despite it being small, it was warm. “I’ll clean the boar, you organize your herbs and apron.”

Huffing that she wouldn’t be able to see to his wound immediately, she nodded. Arguing with him was a useless endeavour, he could be quite stubborn. Then again, so could she. Though, she could also use the extra time to gather everything she needed. “Alright. Nothing too strenuous though!” she left with a quick finger wagging before rushing into the cabin, cheeks warming when his chuckles followed after her.

Barely half an hour later, Mori was in the cabin, spitting the cleaned boar in the fireplace. “Hmm, that was fast. And it looks like we’ll have a good supper!” she eyed him, more so his wound, there were signs that the quickness of his work agitated the wound. “Well, come on.”

The moment he was seated, she stood between his knees, cleaning the blood. Despite his werewolf nature accelerating his healing, the wound was still the largest she’d seen on him, and him working on the boar had agitated enough to hinder the healing. She was gentle in cleaning close to the wound, sighing in relief when she could see that he was finally healing.

Standing her full height, she watched for a few more moments before cleaning her hands. “Well, that’s better. But we both know you’ll be tender there for at least a day or two.” smiling, she froze when his hands cupped her cheeks, hands large enough that his fingers could begin to tangle in her hair. “M-mori?”

Instead of an answer, he pulled her to him, face nuzzling into her own, his nose brushing against her neck and temple with a rumbling echoing around them. “I was scared when I sensed you in danger.” his lips brushed against her skin, breath teasing enough that she shivered.

“Y-you... scared?” her heart began to flutter, this was a little unusual from Mori. Yes, he had moments where he hovered, but she always assumed it was his silent way of gaining her attention or warning those with questionable intentions to back off. This open physical affection was something she had only hoped for the longer he stuck around.

“Hmm.” slightly sharp teeth nipped at her thrashing pulse, his chuckle an answer to her surprised squeak. “From now on, you’ll wait until I can accompany you so late in the woods.” his hands shifted, sweeping slowly along her form that sent heat rushing through her only to be followed by a wave of goosebumps, until she was seated in his lap. “I will not allow harm to come to you.”

A few more surprised noises escaped her until she finally giggled. “You know, a woman usually likes to hear the words more often.” deeming his clinging affection the sign she had been waiting for, she wrapped her arms around his neck and mimicked his earlier actions and nuzzled her nose against his cheek and neck. His hold on her tightened, claws careful in pricking her waist as a pleased rumbled vibrated from his chest against her. “But I can work with this!”

His amused chuckle had her giggling, even when his lips claimed hers and her cheeks immediately exploded in a heated blush. Those were the very same words she had said when she first helped heal him near a year ago. And she hadn’t been wrong thus far!

The kiss quickly became heated, as she was manoeuvred so that she now straddled his lap, whimpering at the passion behind his kiss and petting. She could only cling to him, squirming as he hands swept over her form in smooth gliding motions, it caused shivers to trail down her spine despite the heat he radiated. The pleased rumbling continued, growing deeper and more powerful the more she responded to his affections. Feeling the sharp points of his fangs nipping at her lower lip had her panting, allowing his tongue to snake past her teeth to conquer her mouth, and she was only too pleased to let him.

When the roughness of his palms slip up her thighs, claws teasingly tickling the insides of her thighs until his hands came to a stop to squeeze the cheeks of her behind, Kagome pulled away from him to moan. “Ah! Mori!”

His handling became a little rougher after, but still restrained, as his mouth anchored just below her ear, seemingly content to kiss, lick, and nip at her thrashing pulse. Her own hands wrapped around his neck and the back of his head, pulling him closer. There was a sensation growing low in her belly, it was much more present than the few times when her heart fluttered when he did or said something.

“I can smell you.” Mori curled in on her, the action causing her to bend back a little and had her hips arching against his own. “I grow hungry at your scent.” his nose trailed down her neck, nosing along the hem of her simple shirt.

“Ahn!” clawing at him, her legs shook at the sensations she was gaining by rocking against him. “Mori, please!” his hands slightly scrapped down the back of her thighs, hands massaging as he dragged her deeper into his lap.

Her moans and sighs mixed with his pleased rumblings, until a few hisses escaped him when her hands shifted; nails scoring down his shoulders and back, petting down his front to reach the ties of his trousers. Larger hands stopped her. “If you do this, there is no turning back.”

Pulling back to look at him, she had to bite her lower lip. His cheeks were flushed, eyes blazing, and looking entirely too edible. “Is that a threat, or a promise?”

Hands trailed up her sides, fingers teasing her breasts, until he turned to the ties and began to undo them. “A promise. We do this, and you are mine.”

“As long you’re mine in return, then there’s no stopping.” she absently traced along the newest scar across his front, shivering as he gently removed her shirt, exposing her to his eyes and touch as she had never been before. All that was left between them, were his trousers and her skirt.

“Forever.” this kiss was different, searing, demanding and unyielding, claiming. It was sweet and passionate, an odd combination, but it left her breathless all the same.

When large hands gently left her hips to slid up her sides, a gasp escaped her when they finally took hold of her breasts. They were gentle in their exploration, thumbs teasing her nipples into stiffening peaks that were quickly teased.

“M-Mori!” her hips bucked at the sensation, it seemed to start where his fingers were currently teasing her nipples, but it somehow echoed below her belly and between her legs. Unable and unwilling to sit sill any longer, she decided to return the favour. Would he enjoy it? Would he feel the same things? After scratching lightly at the back of his neck and nipping at his ear, which he seemed to enjoy if his bucking hips were anything to go by, she carefully trailed her hands down his front. Heat radiated off him in waves, his heart pounding beneath her hands in the same tempo as her own.

The warm touches and teasing ended the moment her thumbs brushed against his own nipples in teasing circles, it ripped a snarl from him. “Enough!” In a quick move, she was on the floor with Mori between her legs, hands pinned above her head. With his free hand, he removed the last of her clothing, leaving her utterly bare before him, open to his exploration.

His hands were so large in comparison, nearly spanning the width of her waist, the heat of him had her arching up into his touch with a whimper. “Mori.”

He bowed his head, lips claiming hers as tongues tangled. It was only until they both needed to breathe, did he pull away, his breath panting and curling around her neck. “May I…?” his entire form shivered as he kept still, his hold on her wrists gentle.

Nodding her head, as Kagome feared that her voice would fail her, she was barely able to even whisper “Please.”. Her thighs felt slick, her heart full of love for this werewolf, even as a part of her seemed to clench in a desperate need at feeling so empty.

Again, Mori showed great strength and displayed a gentleness when he slowly turned her over, so she rested on her hands and knees. Blue eyes blinked at the position, more than a little confused. “Mori? What-!” any questions she had for him halted when his form draped over her own, covering her entirely. While that had been erotic in a way she hadn’t thought possible, the feel of his member scalding her had her shivering in anticipation.

“I’m sorry, this is how my people mate.” his nose brushed along the back of her neck, nosing her hair aside. “If it bothers you…” he trailed off, voice trembling.

“No! I was just surprised.” feeling him shake just the slightest amount, she reached forward and curled her hand with his, fingers weaving together. Feeling him relax had her smiling, warmth spreading through her when his own fingers curled around her own.

And then he started moving, adding heat to that warmth. After a few slow thrusts, where his length simply passed against her, he finally shifted and began pushing his length into her. Both moaned, Kagome was thankful that he was slow and careful until he was finally seated completely within her. Panting, her body shuddered at the intrusion. It was completely new to her, so much larger than the rare times she pleased herself with her fingers, much larger and hotter.

Feeling Mori twitch, muscles spasming as he panted and attempted to remain still for her benefit made her love him all the more. Once she felt sure of herself, she turned as best she could, brushing against his dropped head in an attempt to nuzzle him. “Mori.”

His arm wrapped around her waist, he turned to return the nuzzling affections as he slowly began to move. A low rumbled echoed from him into her that echoed her gasping whimper as she instinctively followed after him, slamming him back into her.

For a few agonizing minutes, it was slow thrusts from him that had her whimpering and arching into him for more. “More, Mori, please!” a sudden thrust in response nearly knocked her forward, only his hold kept her in place. Hips grinding had his length brushing against something deep within her. “Yes! Please more, Mori!” pushing back against him, she cried out at the snarl that was her only warning before he set up a near brutal pace.

She couldn’t keep up, the pleasure wracking her body until she could no longer support her own weight and dropped to her elbows. Mori followed after, unwilling to leave any space between them. Between her moans and his snarling growls, Kagome blushed at the lewd sounds of skin hitting skin, or of how wet it actually sounded.

The hand sliding across her stomach to grip her hip to adjust the angle, nearly had her knees slipping out from under her, her free hand slapping over her mouth at the yelp that escaped her. He was so deep now, brushing or hitting something that she had never been aware about.

Teeth nipped at her ear as a nose traced along her cheek. “No. I want to hear everything.”

Hand now slapping against the floor, nails clawing into the wood when he switched from actively thrusting to grind deeply. “M-Mori.” whimpering, she pushed back as she felt like she was standing on the edge of something wonderful. “Please, I’m so close.”

“Yes.” he nipped at her neck, hips grinding into her ass as he growled. His movements became frantic, even though he was unwilling to separate himself from her. “Mine. My Kagome.”

“Yes! Yes, yours!” she sobbed when his hand left her hip to dip down for his finger to rub at her clit. With every grind of his hips into her, she cried out a babbled mix between his name and accepting his claim until she finally came.

As for Mori, he snarled as he continued to grind into her to the point where her knees finally did slip and scrape against the wooden floor until she was laying flat. It did not seem to hinder him in the least, it simply urged him, seemed to spurn him to more. With his one hand, teasing her none stop, Kagome seemed to be falling with no stop in the near future, and she could only babble out his name.

“Kagome!” his face was pressed tight against her hair, snarling deeply as he dominated her body. Grinding a few times, a growl ripped through him when he buried himself as deeply as he could in her heat, his seed leaving him in hot thick spurts that had Kagome shuddering.

Both were panting, Mori nuzzling into Kagome’s hair as she attempted to regain her sense of self. A whimper escaped her when Mori turned them over, unwilling to leave her in any way, so that they rested on their sides with Kagome facing the fire place.

“Is… is it always going to be like that?” despite having regained her breath, Kagome’s heart was still pounding, but she hummed when he snuggled into her, pulling her deeper into his hold.

“Hmmm, yes.” his nose was surprisingly cool, sending tingles down her spine. “Also better.”

“Better?” she wasn’t sure how it could get better, but she smiled at the fact that he wanted to continue their newfound relationship.

Mori smiled as he buried his face in her neck and hair, enjoying their mixed scents. As enjoyable as tonight was, he felt that introducing her to a true werewolf’s mating was a little too early right now. “Later. For now, rest. I’m not quite done with you this night.”

Her giggles warmed his heart and he was content to relax and hold her. For now at least.

Chapter 7: Cursed King Tamaki

A soft sneeze echoed through the room, quickly followed by disgruntled mumbling as a lone figure searched. Dust smeared one cheek, as well as making their dress looking slightly mottled and dulled, a few webs were caught in a once elegant up-do, and their brow shined slightly due to a slightly sweaty complexion.

“...swear to the spirits… strangulation… not cleaning service…” loud thumps from dropping heavy books from shelves onto a small table, shuffling papers mixed with the mutterings and huffing. “...should not have accepted the stupid quest.”

Kagome, a great healer and white mage, had been growing bored since the victory of her last quest. And with her friends and former adventurers becoming couples, leaving her the odd one out, she was also getting tired of family and friends asking her who and when she would find someone.

“Oh, but your cousin Kikyo and Inuyasha managed to make it work.” the mocking tone was quickly followed by a rather unlady like snort. “Make it work, my foot! She’s still seeing that necromancer-!” Kagome visibly shivered at the mere memory of Naraku. “While Inuyasha is highly possibly gay!”

Fists planted on her hips, Kagome stared out the dusty window that looked out at a stormy night sky. “Not that there’s a problem with him being gay.” she muttered, shaking her head. “But there can only be so many, Put him in his place, discussions. They both were always dishevelled after their discussions.”

Opening her latest find, Kagome giggled. “...for all his blustering, I would bet my money on Inuyasha being bottom.”

“What’s on the bottom?”

Startled out of her musings, as well as her current job, Kagome yelped as she spun around, cheeks flushing in embarrassment. “What?!” wide blue eyes fluttered at the tall figure in the doorway.

He was tall, dressed in the most immaculate fashion true to his standing. Pale hair was styled to frame his face, drawing her gaze to his own pale one. If one were to go just based on this slim male wrapped in refined fashion and slightly foreign looks, they would agree that he was a beautiful individual. Only if you were able to ignore the slightly worn and frayed fabrics, the fact that his face looked slightly hollowed out, exhausted, and stretched, and the eerie pale blue glow about him, all of which signified him being a Lich or cursed to be Lich-like.

“Ah, ha-ha-ha!” Kagome scratched at the back of her head, embarrassed that he managed to hear some part of monologue. “Um… the chests! The chests are on the bottom!” she was quick to point to the heavy chests at the bottom of the shelves. She had yet to look in them, but the books had yielded the best results so far.

Wide eyes blinked as he turned to follow where she was pointing. “Well, yes. Where else would they be?”

Heaving a breath, Kagome felt relief. It was still hard to believe that Tamaki, who was either a high ranking noble or low ranking royal and had been around for quite some time due to his current status, was so utterly… innocent. She honestly had a hard time believing that he actively did something to put himself in his current state. Honestly, he more likely blundered into the situation or circumstances that cursed him.

“Anyways, everything alright?” brushing some stray hair out of her face, she grimaced at the heavy scent of dust that clung to her fingers.

“Oh!” his posture straightened as his cheeks coloured. “Ah, um, yes!”

In all the time she’s been present, she grew to learn Tamaki. The initial surprise that the quest, which had been posted to ‘End the Lich King’s curse’ had been from Tamaki himself, and not to kill a Lich King, had thrown her for a loop. But getting to know Tamaki, just made her want to help him all the harder. Someone so sweet did not deserve to be cursed so cruelly.

The sound of him clearing his throat drew her attention back to him. “Ah, I was wondering if you wanted to join me for supper.”

Smiling at him, she felt herself cooing at his shy and polite nature. All the more reason to break this curse. “I would love to.” a quick look down at herself, she faltered. “Um, I would need to clean up first, though.”

Tamaki brightened, energy flowing from him and making the glow about him, warmer. “Yes, you do!” he paused when it seemed he realized how that sounded. “Not that you’re filthy! You are, but I’m not saying that you yourself are filthy. Just that during your research you go filthy! But you’re beautiful, whether clean or filthy!” he ended on a whimper, posture slouching in defeat when she pressed her fingers to his lips.

Giggling at the blush that flooded his cheeks, Kagome knew she wasn’t immune to his stumbling compliments. “I understand what you mean. I must look a right mess right now.” pulling her hand away. When he quickly took hold of her hand, the softness of his fingers wrapped around her own had the heat in her cheeks burning warmer.

“...I apologize.” a heaving sigh shook his frame. “Since I became aware of how lightly you packed, I saw to it that you would have spare garments made available for you.” he gently tugged her along behind him.

Kagome thought, for sure, he would lead her to the room she had been using since she arrived and learned the truth of the quest. Instead, she pulled her along to a more lived in section of his home. It was warmer, more comfortable, she would say cleaner, but there was this lingering aura of neglect on everything. Most likely due to Tamaki’s curse.

He paused at a door, smile bright when he turned to her. Offering a confused smile in return, she opened the door, only to gasp at the sight that greeted her. It was huge! She was pretty sure her entire family could live comfortable in a room this size. Not only that, it was the warmest and cleanest room she’s seen thus far. The effects of the curse seemed to have been removed from this room.

Tamaki launched himself into explaining all he could about the room and his efforts to get it ready for her. “Once you shared it would take longer to remove the curse, I immediately had the servants begin cleaning this room.” he was just as equally enthusiastic in animating as he shared his story. “When I came to inspect it, I was dismayed to see that the effects of the curse were lingering even after the room was cleaned. The same with your wardrobe and bathing room, so I knew I had to step in to help personally. Which is why it took so long, apologies.”

Eyes widening, she easily recalled how absent he had been for the last month. She had worried the curse had worsened or taken a turn, but it turns out that he had pitched in to helping clean her room. And a fresh wardrobe. And bathing room?! “Tamaki, I… I’m speechless. You didn’t have to go so far for me. But… thank you. It’s the kindest thing anyone has ever done for me.”

His smile grew all the brighter as her cheeks warmed. “Well, I’ll leave to give you some privacy. The servants will launder your clothes, so don’t worry about them.” he offered a polite bow before leaving her.

Kagome waited until she could no longer hear his footsteps, when their echoes faded, did she let out a giddy squeal as she turned on the spot. As excited as she was to explore the room, she rushed to the door Tamaki had pointed out to be where she could bathe. Bursting through the door, it was as if she was seeing heaven. It was bright, clean, smelled softly of some flower or herb, and in the middle was a bathtub of her dreams. Well, more like a small pool.

Rushing forward, she turned the faucet and relaxed at the steaming water poured out. No more cold baths! No more needing to boil water to fill a small wooden tub to have hot baths! Giddy, Kagome set the temperature to what she wanted, added essential scents or oils or soaps and stripped out of her dirty dress.

Dipping into the waters, she sighed. It had been too long since she last had a nice hot bath. She was going to enjoy this for as long as she could. It was only remembering that Tamaki had invited her to dinner, did she remember that she couldn’t just bathe and sleep. It was only reminding herself, that she now had access to hot baths and would undoubtedly be the most comfortable bed from here on out, did she proceed to wash up.

Apparently, she had dallied long enough in actually bathing, that she hadn’t realized how much time had passed. Long enough that Tamaki himself came to make sure everything was alright.

Just as she was stepping out and securing a towel around herself, feeling the most refreshed she had ever felt in a long time, did Tamaki rush in, worried about her health and safety. “Kagome, are you alright?!”

The sudden rushing of cool air, Tamaki’s concerned cry, the bursting of the door, all of it to be honest, nearly had Kagome slipping and falling back into the water. “Tamaki!” arms wheeling, she quickly corrected her footing. Breathing a sigh of a relief, Kagome eyed the now extremely flustered Tamaki. “Honestly, Tamaki, knocking is a thing.”

If she hadn’t grown up with Inuyasha and Miroku, mostly Miroku, she would most likely be as equally mortified about this situation as Tamaki is.

“I- I-! APOLOGIES!” his movements were stiff as he stood his full height and spun around. Funnily, his attempts to walk out failed spectacularly.

Who knew a person could both trip and slip on nothing?

With a shake of her head, Kagome reached for a lovely, and so sinfully soft, robe and followed after Tamaki. Tamaki stood in a corner, face still a mad flush, muttering under his breath about… something.

“So, what was the reason to burst in on a bathing woman?” she dropped into a chair. Oh, even the chairs were plush and supportive! The chair she had been using while researching Tamaki’s curse, was just a basic chair, no cushioning and with poor back support.

“...I apologize…” he barely turned, his gaze just barely hinting to look in her direction. “...with how long you were bathing, I grew worried. Especially when you didn’t answer when I knocked or called out.”

Oh. Now she felt bad. “Now I apologize. It was not my intent to make you worry.” biting down on her lower lip, she gazed toward what she was unsure if it was a desk or vanity table. “Well, I didn’t mean to take so long. To make up for it, would you like to pick out the dress for tonight’s dinner? I honestly don’t know what you have planned and would hate to cause a faux pas.”

Perking up, Tamaki threw her a bright smile. “Oui, Ma Chérie! Ce serait un plaisir pour moi!”

Smiling at his returned energy. Chin dropping into a propped hand, she watched as he entered a walk in wardrobe, she must have missed that door during her excitement about looking forward to a bath. Focusing back on Tamaki, she now realized something, well noticed something to be exact. There was more colour to him, not just the pale blue and greys. They were faint, but there.

Interesting.

Before she could think further on that, Tamaki returned with his pick of dress. It was pale blue and warm cream with ribbons, lace and pearly accentuating the cut and style of the dress. It was elegant, even if it was a more simplistic style of dress.

In his other hand were some shoes, and a case that most likely held some jewellery. “Oh, Tamaki, it’s beautiful!” she was on her feet and carefully touching the dress. “Can I really wear all of this?” she turned to look him in the eye.

“Of course, Ma Chérie!” his entire face was soft. It made his somewhat deathly pallor look more alive, still tired, but more alive.

Laughing, Kagome accepted the items. “Alright, now shoo, so I can get dressed.” she waved him off, waiting until she heard the door closed. In an attempt make up for making him wait when he went out of his way to set this all up, she rushed through getting dressed. Looking in a mirror, she opted for a simple braid. Weaving an extra ribbon through the strands, she added a few pearly hair clips to tie it all together.

With one last look at her outfit, she had never looked or felt so soft before. She felt like she was glowing. Making her way out, her felt not only her smile grew at the look Tamaki was giving her, but her cheeks felt warmer as well.

Well now, she felt ridiculous and noticed as a woman for the first time.

“...absolument magnifique...” his whispered words had her blush spreading, especially when he trailed his knuckles down her burning cheek.

Now she felt utterly desirable as a woman. And at that moment, Kagome saw Tamaki as a desirable man. Not just a client, not just as a handsome young man with an unfortunate curse, but as a desirable man.

Heart fluttering, she accepted the arm he offered. Servants were milling about, they too were looking more lively since she first arrived. A few maids even giggled as she and Tamaki passed by. As for Tamaki, he was soaking it all up, which had Kagome quietly giggling as well.

She was surprised when they entered the dinning room. It was cleaned, as much as the curse permitted, and sparkling. Fresh flowers decorated the long table, candles flickered, causing all the platters of food to glow. It was more like a feast than the simple dinner she had been expecting.

“Oh, my… Tamaki?” she turned to him, in confusion. It was wonderful, she would not deny that, but this seemed far more grand than just dinner. “When you said dinner, I assumed something smaller, more… intimate. This seems far more, elaborate, than what I was expecting.”

Tamaki smiled down at her, a hand patting her own that was still tucked in his arm. “Kagome, Ma Chérie, you deserve the best.” before taking a seat, he pressed a soft kiss to the back of her hand.

Lashes fluttered. She had never been treated so… gently. Like an actual lady.

“Still, isn’t this a little much?” she waved at the table, it was filled, full of a wide selection of things to eat and drink.

Kagome watched, a little dumbfounded, although pleased, when Tamaki sat next to her rather than across from her. He waved an approaching butler, instead, reaching to pour her some wine.

“When you first arrived, none of us were surprised at your initial reaction. Others reacted very much the same, if not more violently. Yet you listened to my, our, plight, and decided to stay and help. For that, you deserve all of what we can offer you. All of this and so much more.”

Accepting the glass, Kagome stared into the deep red, her reflexion unclear. “I might not be able to lift this curse, I do hope you know that.” she quickly turned to face Tamaki. “But I will do everything in my power and abilities to break it!”

Her attempts to grab Tamaki’s hands to reassure that she meant her words, she fumbled with her glass of wine, accidentally spilling some wine across both their laps. Stuttering, shaking hands snatched up a napkin and began dabbing at the growing red stains on their laps. “Oh, oh my! I am so sorry!”

“Ma… Ma Chérie…” Tamaki shifted beneath her ministrations, hands gripping tightly as he attempted to move away subtly. Bright eyes were heavy lidded as he watched her frantic attempts to clean up the wine. Not at all realizing

Kagome remained ignorant of Tamaki’s plight. Dabbing, rubbing and scrubbing at the stain, constantly babbling about how sorry she was. She was a nervous mess, oblivious to Tamaki’s personal predicament.

If she thought herself a flustered mess, she would probably internally melt at the purely male gaze Tamaki was giving her. Smouldering as he traced along her exposed neck, clavicle and the blush that brushed the top of her breasts. If she looked.

“...Kagome…”

“I’m really sorry!” a noise between a whimper and giggle escaped her. “This is probably expensive. With red wine, I’m such a klutz!” she was on the verge of tears.

“Kagome, look at me.” hsi voice was low, the lowest she’s ever heard and thus drawing her attention.

“I’m sor-!” teary eyes widened. For many reasons.

Tamaki… his expression was one of restraint, painful restraint, as he watched her with a heated and utterly male gaze. A look she had seen many a-time, often directed towards Kikyo during quests. But right now, Tamaki was looking at her like that. Gone was either the excited or sombre expression, his current expression while not outright serious, added a certain ethereal mature beauty to his appearance.

On top of that, he had gripped her chin in such a way that his thumb was pressed against her lips, and curled his fingers around her wrist. It had been redirected to a prominent bulge. She honestly wasn’t sure if was from her own furious blush, or if she could actually feel it’s pulsing heat through Tamaki’s trousers.

“I don’t care about the stain.” he passed his thumb across her lips and back, enchanted by his own actions. “At least, not that stain.”

Her cheeks burned hotter, if it were at all possible. So hot, she could feel herself getting dizzy.

The implications caused other reactions. Her nipples stiffened, breasts grew heavy, and warmth began to pool below her belly. Her hips wiggled at her budding arousal. A smirk unlike any she had ever seen on Tamaki curled his lips. It was, darker, stirring the growing warmth. “...Tamaki?”

Mouth dropping open just slightly, he teased the tip of his thumb past her own lips. Taking a chance that she wasn’t going crazy, she teased back with her tongue, delighting in the blush that took over his cheeks. Her temporary victory was outdone when Tamaki pressed her hand tighter against his growing length, guiding her into stroking rather than just pressing.

“...I’m loath to keep it secret, but, I love you. Not only that, but I want you in every way.”

Eyes widening, Kagome stared up at him. Well now, with having already promised that she would stay as long as needed, there was no real going back to simple employer and employee, or healer and patient. Either way, Tamaki had been nothing but respected of her needs, desires, and boundaries. Knowing that, if she felt they were not compatible as lovers, she knew he would respect her boundary to remain nothing more as friends.

Knowing that, and wanting to be more, Kagome decided to go for daring. Honestly, why not?

Climbing into his lap, skirts pulled up to allow for more freedom of movement. His hands, normally cool or chilled against her own skill, felt scalding as they gripped her thighs. “I’m normally not this forward, but…” she swooped down to his lips, claiming them in a heated kiss.

Despite his earlier seduction, Tamaki stumbled to mimic her actions. She was no longer a virgin, but it seemed Tamaki was. Was she to be his first? Then she would ensure it would be everything he desired in comparison to her own.

“Kagome.”

“Shhh, just tell me what you want.” she pressed more kisses along his jaw until she could nibble an earlobe. “What you need.”

His fingers dug into her flesh, pulling her flush so she could feel him teasing where she needed him the most. “You. I want, need, you.”

Rolling her hips, breath stuttering, her lashes fluttered. So close and yet so far. “How?”

Worry entered his gaze, eyes darting to the few servants lingering in shadowed corners. It took a few harsher rolls of her hips for him to focus on her. Instead of ending their tryst, he leaned in closer, whispering. “I want you bare before me, across this table so that I can feast on everything you have to offer me.”

“Oh?” she could already picture it, her naked self laid across a large platter surrounded by various fruits and flowers as Tamaki sat at the head of a table.

“I’ve seen the way my servants watch you. How they talk with you. Lingering touches.” again, his voice lowered, sounding more of a growl. “So they can look all they want, as I take you and make you mine.”

Kagome whimpered. She had entertained a few fantasies, but she never thought she would be aroused by the idea of others watching. But it was more than that, Tamaki was showing a possessive nature that somehow called to her.

Pulling back, lashes fluttered. “Well… the dress is ruined, what are we going to do about it?” she fingered where the stain had formed. There of course were ways to remove red wine stains, with and without magic, but she wanted to see where Tamaki would take this.

He didn’t disappoint.

Tearing fabric mixed with her gasp, her breasts were now exposed.

Tamaki took his time to admire them, weigh them and tweak her stiffened nipples. His gaze was sharp, learning quick what she enjoyed the most before moving on to something else. Before she could even whimper at the loss, heated lips were quick to swallow on as he continued to twist and pinch the other.

“Tamaki!” her cry had him surging to his feet, her legs wrapping around his waist as an arm swiped at the table behind her and sending everything crashing to the floor.

Laid out against the wood, she watched with anticipated breath as he finished tearing through the dress, exposing her completely to his gaze. Deft fingers smoothed up her thighs, hesitating for a moment before testing where she desired him the most.

Back arching, her panting cries filled the room. “M-more, please!” this time, she gripped his wrist and pressed his hand tighter against her pussy, showing where her clit throbbed with need. “There!”

A strangled whimper left Tamaki, fingers slick as they teased her clit. Rolling it between his fingers. It lasted a few minutes, his fingers stirring her hips.

“No!” the plea left her, forcing her to a semi recline position when Tamaki pulled away, sitting back down in his chair.

His smirk was back, gaze going between her and his raised sticky fingers. “Show me.”

Lashes fluttering, she watched for a few moments as he sucked on his own fingers, cleaning her juices with a look of absolute delight. Then she remembered his command. Whimpering, she propped her feet on the table and opened her legs. One hand spread her lower lips open before her other hand joined, showing him how she usually teased herself.

With no support, she was flat on the table, her gaze on the ceiling or turning to spy on either butler standing in waiting. Their cheeks were flushed, eyes glancing at her every so often before quickly facing forward. But it was knowing Tamaki was watching here like a hawk that heated her blood.

Her fingers worked her pussy, slowly at first, but quickly gaining in temp as she felt herself grow more slick. It never happened this quickly before. Then again, she never had been so openly watched before either.

Just as she began dipping her fingers into her heat, Tamaki put his hands on her again. Stroking her trembling thighs. Then his tongue was working with her fingers.

“You taste so sweet.” sadly, just as quick as his tongue had joined the fray, it just as quickly pulled away.

Kagome had just stopped for a few moments, when Tamaki spoke up again. “I didn’t tell you to stop.”

She was wound up tight. Hips bouncing in time to her frantic fingers. There was some noise, but Kagome was deaf to it, especially when Tamaki pressed a hand against her stomach, hindering her wriggling. “Tamaki.”

The whine had him chuckling in response, only to sigh when his tongue returned. Tamaki was not only a quick study, but eager as well. To think, for his apparent first time, he would see to her pleasure first.

“Eh?!” her head darted up, watching Tamaki absently pour some wine over her belly. Skin prickling, she fought between the instincts to continue and to stop the wine from dripping down her sides in slow tickling spills. “Ta-I don’t understand?”

He stood up again, his chin a glistening mess of her juices mixed with wine. He was bold and brazen as he slowly stripped. “I always enjoyed that vintage, but I think, I shall not have another drop unless your flavour is mixed with it.”

Was this really the timid and excitable Tamaki from earlier today? Was this brashness brought on by how long he’s been cursed? To make such a comment. Or was it a suggestion? A command?

“I should punish you for stopping, but, I cannot hold back any more, and I’m starving for the main course.” with his grip on her thighs, he pulled her closer.

Sadly, she wasn’t given a chance to see him completely, but she could feel. He felt hot and heavy, just resting against her. Larger than she expected with his almost delicate appearance. Looking up at him, she batted her lashes with a pout. “Tamaki?”

“En tant que votre roi, dois-je accéder à votre demande?” the words were foreign, possibly an ancient language. She’ll ask him later when they weren’t so occupied.

Tamaki had yet to move. When his petting hands stroked closer and closer to where they intimately touched, Kagome’s head dropped back. “...yes, please…”

With a gentleness that had her mewling, Tamaki entered her, filling her with a heat that had her sighing. It had been far too long for her, but Tamaki… Tamaki, she was drowning in all that was Tamaki, erasing any memories of previous lovers she had. As few as they had been.

“Tu es divin. Je te garderai toujours.” his voice was full of awe as he moved.

Her legs wrapped around his slim waist, a moan leaving her with every thrust deep into her. Breasts swaying and bouncing, Tamaki watched them with a pinched brow, his hands squeezing her hips as he dragged her into him to deepen his thrusts.

“Tamaki, ‘m close.” it felt like each breath was being punched out of her by Tamaki’s dick. Her words seemed to spur him, his hold shifting her hips to change the angle. Arching up sharply as a gasp escaped her, Kagome swore she saw and felt the sparks.

“Ha-ha, found something special?” hips swivelling, a bark of a laugh fell from his lips, a near deranged expression colouring his expression. “Almost there, Ma Chérie?”

“Yes!” sobbing, she felt so wound up, tightly tense to the point where her feet and legs felt like they were cramping.

“Keep those fingers moving, Ma Chérie.” after the command, he devolved into seemingly mindless words, a mix of that foreign language and praises she barely picked up.

It took possibly a few more minutes; Tamaki’s muttering, Kagome throwing whatever she could muster into the mix. Which wasn’t a lot, since she was concentrated on her frantic fingers against her clit and Tamaki’s powerful thrusts.

“Ma Chérie, I cannot not hold on any longer.” Tamaki dropped over her, one hand keeping him from collapsing completely. “May I…”

Her legs tightened around his waist, at the minute hesitation in his momentum. It took a few moments for her to understand what Tamaki was attempting to speak up on. “Don’t you dare stop.” lungs burned with how hard she was panting, eyes stung from the sweat dripping into her eyes, but she was having this climax.

A sloppy kiss was pressed to her brow and cheek. “Je t'aime, ma chérie.” he shuddered.

Mewling, Kagome couldn’t believe how much she actually mewled compared to her previous experiences, she nuzzled Tamaki’s cheek as she felt a warmth fill her. Then her own climax washed over her. Like a taught rope snapping, her body instantly relaxing.

“Oh-ho?” Tamaki pulled back, staring down at where they were joined, a hand brushing against his stomach and her thighs. “Was not expecting this. ma chérie.”

Looking down, Kagome blushed. She heard a few tales when talking with a few of her female friends, but since she never had this happen before, the thought never crossed her mind that she might be able to squirt.

Hiding behind her hands, Kagome whimpered, only to gasp when Tamaki pulled out. Her legs were caught and pried open. Peaking, Her blush returned as she spied Tamaki watching her, and she could feel herself leaking.

“Shall we move to the bedroom, ma chérie?” legs lowered slowly, Tamaki smiled at her. It grew at her shy nod. He threw his jacket over her shoulders, thankfully, it was large enough to cover everything, if she were walking. Instead, Tamaki swept her up into his arms and marched through the halls naked himself.

“We have sex in front of some of your servants, but you cover me up, mostly, as you carry me to your bedroom while walking naked yourself?” the jacket was pulled tighter, not that it would help since she could feel the cool air on her bare bottom and pussy.

“Those butlers were the ones that openly spoke about attempting to court and woo you.” he nuzzled the top of her head. “That was me putting them in their place. Don’t worry, unless you ask, and I am agreeable, you shall never be exposed in front of others again.”

In some graceful move, Kagome was in the bed without the jacket when they arrive at Tamaki’s room. Eyes narrowed, Kagome watched him as he prowled towards her. “You are not acting like I expected.”

“Due to this being my first time?” at her nod, he pulled her into his hold. “Believe me, I’ve been around long enough to know when I feel comfortable in my own skin. If this had happened freshly after I was cursed, I would have hidden us away in my room for a week before braving the servants reactions.”

Snuggling, Kagome covered her lips when giggles started at the flushed cheeks and doopey smile on Tamaki’s cheeks. His hair was dishevelled, clothes in slight disarray, but he looked more alive than ever before.

“I think your curse is… breaking, or at the very least, weakening.” she brushed some bangs to the side.

The washed out blues and grays were slowly being replaced by more lively colours. Still on the pale side, but it was there, proof that the curse was in fact weakening.

The goofy smile was still in place as he looked down at her. “I think you are the key, Ma Chérie.” a gentle kiss was pressed to her brow. She could feel his smile, and able to see, hear, and feel his happiness had her melting inside. It also had her promising to stay for as long as she could to further help Tamaki and the servants.

“Well, since I’ll be staying, wee see how true your theory is, Ma Majestè.” an excited and happy squeal escaped her when he swooped down on her, raining kisses across her face and snuggling into her embrace.

Notes:

I wish everyone a Happy Halloween and hope everyone enjoyed these chapters!