Life, Death, Love
Chapter 4: Living Under
Rin finds herself descending to a foreign ground in slow-motion. Once her feet landed safely, she unconsciously disentangled herself from Sesshoumaru to gently rub the base of her shoes to the ground, just to test if she can now trust herself to walk on it. She felt puzzled because the unknown place was completely dark, and what appeared to be the night sky was already littered with stars. She was sure it was still late-afternoon when they left the forest. That was why she resigned herself to going back home in the first place. They couldn't have time-warped themselves because their surroundings looked completely different. An endless mass of land stretched in front of her. It didn't look muddy and dirty to look like a dump yard, but it was too empty to be mistaken as a part of the forest that they came from. It was just plain, solid ground, like the untouched bodies of rock formations that she has seen on books, except that it's soil. She was intrigued. Why would Sesshoumaru bring her to an empty place under the night sky? He isn't planning on doing something bad to her in this place, is he?
No, he couldn't be. This place is too empty and weird for that.
Then why would he show her this place?
"Now we can skip thereal, quick introductions."
His last words before mentioning something that she didn't catch replayed in her head and realization hit her.
She quickly turns toward Sesshoumaru to ask her question, but she was made speechless again by what she saw. The god was there, alright, but from the white-haired human Sesshoumaru at the busy streets to his real form with facial markings and pointed ears at the forest, she is now seeing a new him once again. His hair was eerily white in contrast to the dark surroundings and there was no explanation as to why it was still glowing in such a dark place. Because it was silver, it gave her the impression that it was burning blue flames instead of red. He looked more god-like. His clothing changed as well, he was now wearing traditional Japanese clothing matched with a furry thing draped on his right shoulder where the end mysteriously float in air instead of being held by gravity to the ground. And all of this was the color of white, save for his dark boots, the sash decorating his waist and the red patterns on his kimono, which were all still very small in comparison to his clean white attire. Overall, she couldn't think of any other word to describe him – he looked royalty.
Resuming her original thought, she gathered her wits to ask, "Are we…?"
Instead of answering her right away, the now-more-intimidating god took one of her hands like before and led her towards the nothingness ahead of them. Rin noticed a source of light very far away and she assumed that that is where they are heading. She patiently allowed him to be silent and just lead her to what she assume would answer her suspicion, until…
"WAAAAAH!" A tremendous roar was heard and it echoed throughout the whole place, as if it wasn't loud enough already, and Rin shrieked in fright to unintentionally match its volume.
The god did not budge and continued leading Rin to the sound, she realized in horror, and the hand that wasn't held by Sesshoumaru was now clutching his arm tightly and trying to squeeze answers out of it.
After walking some distance, she finally saw what was causing the sound. She hugged his arm to death more, if that was possible.
There, surrounded by thick fog, standing in front of a tall intricately-fashioned gate attached to similarly tall walls, that Rin was too frightened to pay attention to at the moment, was a huge two headed dragon whose roar was scaring every part of her body. To add to her fears, its two heads were taking turns in facing upwards to open its mouth and fire blue and green beams of what looked like fire and thunder to Rin. She felt her knees shaking and giving in that she couldn't even register the tightening of the hold on her hand as Sesshoumaru's attempt to comfort her.
Apparently, he had to give her more assurance than that.
"Yes, Rin, I have brought you to my kingdom. This is the realm of the Underworld. Do not be afraid, Ah-Un is a very gentle pet, he is only excited to see my return."
"Peeeeeeeet? GENTLE? He looks like he wants to toast me!"
The god let out a low chuckle. Rin found it terrifying that it did not worry him, but if this could distract her from her upcoming death then she would gladly welcome it.
As they continue to walk towards the gate, or more like Rin hugging Sesshoumaru and him dragging her to go inside, it automatically opened to let them in. Ah-Un, to her relief, stopped firing mysterious elements and moved to the side to let them pass.
The fog thinned to show Rin what she thought was the most beautiful castle she has ever seen. Like the god beside her, its white appearance was a striking contrast amidst the sea of darkness. She deemed it to be a fairy tale castle at first, but as she stared at it longer, she realized that it's a mixture of various kinds of traditional-looking buildings – all arranged to look good together aesthetically. There were towers of different height, but there were tiled rooftops, as well, that looked like it was influenced by old Japanese castles. She didn't know how it was possible to combine such things, but she couldn't deny that it looked good… and timeless. The idea of something, or someone, existing far longer than she could imagine was finally sinking in. If not for Sesshoumaru's interruption, she wouldn't notice that she stopped walking to gape at the architectural beauty in front of her.
"When we go inside, I can leave you to give you some time alone. You'll probably need some rest before I tour you to your new kingdom." Sesshoumaru whispers in her ear.
"Eh?" Did I hear that correctly? "Your kingdom? What are you really thinking, Sesshoumaru? Tell me?"
Rin was about to remind him that she and her mom will go back to the city first thing tomorrow morning and that she'd be going straight to school after that, but when the god smiled at her, her mouth was left open and refused to cooperate with her again. He was lightly smiling at her and for the first time, it wasn't scary or suspicious, it wasn't even a smirk. It was a real smile! She could only wonder why.
Too bad it was interrupted.
The neglected dragon chose this time to remind the two of his presence. He walked closer without giving Rin time to back out and one of his long necks bent to allow one head to nuzzle her in welcome. As soon as the head skipped over Sesshoumaru's form to go straight at her, the intended action remained an attempt… Rin could take no more. Her world abruptly went dark and she surrendered herself to fainting.
With a pointed stare from the god while holding an unconscious Rin, the dragon's head that was frozen in place beside its master's immediately bowed so low until it almost touched the ground, the other head quickly following. The pair of heads could only whimper in shame. The dragon remained in his to-be-punished-puppy position with his eyes pleading for forgiveness.
"Ah-Unnn…." The master trailed in a scolding manner…
Silence.
And then another whimper was heard.
Sesshoumaru was in his own world, which surprisingly wasn't his secluded kingdom, as he twirls his fingers on the soft locks of the woman sleeping beside him. After placing her on his bed, he'd been drifting on and off to reality, thinking of how beautiful his existence would be now that he has the girl he strongly desired in his kingdom. His ego was being stroked by the fact that he managed to get her here so easily. He couldn't think of anything else that would make him feel more fulfilled than he is now. Well, there may be a few more things... He thought evilly as the twirl of dark hair slithered from his fingers to fall in between the sleeping girl's breasts delicately.
"Milord, milord! I have something important to tell you!" A squeaky voice that he unfortunately know by heart shouted behind his bedroom doors. You would've thought the expanse of his bedroom and the thick double doors would've blocked the loud, screeching sound, but no.
"What is it now, Jaken? Anything you say, you always claim to be important!" He shouted back, a little louder. He was annoyed that his moment is being disrupted by an even more annoying being, despite the fact that he is one of the few who live here.
"Demo! Sesshoumaru-samaaaa! I just caught an intruder wandering on our lands!"
"Our lands, you say." He'd threaten him just to get back at him.
"Y-Your land, my lord!" The sound of teeth chattering meant the threat was delivered.
"Let her in." Somehow he wasn't surprised. He is the god here, after all. He could sense when someone trespasses on his kingdom.
"You know her, milord?" This Jaken asked incredulously. "But this woman here had a sharp mouth and she was wandering outside the gates aimlessly!"
"Jakennnn. I said let her in. Wait for my orders outside my room."
"Right away! You may go inside, wench!"
The double doors opened to let in a flying nymph that was very much out-of-place.
"Ah, someone got to tag along." Sesshoumaru said without lifting his eyes away from the sleeping girl.
"RIN! Is she alive?" The nymph shouted as soon as she saw the unconscious body in the middle of the enormous bed.
The god only let out a snort, as if it was the most amusing joke he has heard. Her mask of bravery was entertaining, but he knew it wouldn't last long. He lifted his eyes to the intruder to prove it. The nymph "eeep-ed", their favourite reaction when he's around, and bowed her head to show her respect above all the radiating fear.
"You are a brave one, child, and a strong-willed one to actually run in haste and join us in my own land. I could kill you right now."
"Ppp-p-please don't, Sesshoumaru-sama. I was only concerned about Rin's safety!"
"And you have the right to barge in when I decide to be the one responsible for her safety?"
"…"
Thankfully, it was the god who changed the topic. "Tell me your name."
"Ayame."
"Well, Ayame, since you might be of use, I'm gonna let you stay in my palace… alive. Rin will need a helpful individual from the Upper Earth to make her adjustment to living here as smooth as possible."
As soon as Ayame heard the word adjustment, her eyes went wide and showed all her fear. Sesshoumaru-sama is going to keep the girl? Why?
"Yes, I will be keeping her. When she wakes up, show some respect to my new queen." Sesshoumaru answered her thoughts, which was written all over her face, knowing that it would only increase her helpless panicking. He may have finally chosen a woman to stay by his side, but that doesn't change his sense of fulfilment whenever someone cowers in fear in front of him with just a slight movement of his muscles, aka smile.
Giving her no room to react, he called back to the eavesdropper outside the room. "Jaken, call one of Bokusenou's daughters to assist Ayame in grooming Rin while she sleeps. Prepare a room for the nymph, as well. Quick."
"Hai! Consider it done, my lord!"
Rin woke up later that night to the sound of two women bickering. One of which was familiar to her. This did not bother her for a few more minutes because the pillow she is leaning on was the softest she has ever felt. It was very soothing and magnetic. When she finally opened her lazy eyes, realization that she is not at home finally hit her.
As the two women – one was her friend Ayame, to her relief, and the other, a real woman that was alarmingly as bare as Ayame – continue to fight with words, she sat up and resigned to observing her surrounding for the meantime. She was in an extravagant room that is probably bigger than Kaede obaa-chan's house and their apartment in the city put together, and she is lying in an enormous bed that she is sure to be larger than King Size. Tall glass windows occupy her left side with a door leading to what she assumes to be a balcony; all of this was framed by intricately-carved work of arts that was colored silver. The rest of the furnitures were styled in the same fashion and she took in the beauty of silver mixed with deep blue color, the obvious color theme of the magnificent room. As she looked above her, she had to gasp at the beauty of the giant chandelier. Assuming that she was inside the beautiful castle she saw before she fainted, she could only wonder as to why there was electricity because those lights inside the candlelight-shaped glass containers were too bright to be mistaken as flames.
After what seemed like eternal ogling at the place, she went back to watching the two women of different size arguing at the couch located at the foot of the bed. Try as she might, the woman Ayame was bickering with was hard to ignore, especially when her angry movements shake her body fats which were all in the right places. She felt her virgin eyes scandalized; she was just sitting stiffly with her eyes as big as an owl's. As if the woman's body was finally screaming enough at her, she quickly stood up and walked towards her form, her arms folded and her stare containing anger that she was hoping was not directed at her.
"What?" The woman asked.
All Rin could answer was a hot blush as she had a closerlook at her body and then an embarrassingly loud gulp.
"Oh, Rin! Thank god, you are finally awake!" Ayame flew past the couch to hug Rin's neck.
"My god has nothing to do with this!" The mysterious woman glared even harder.
"Oh shut up, that was an expression! Nobody's obsessed with your god!" Ayame counterattacked.
Rin, who was slowly melting by the intense glare, finally managed to ask, "Um…" gulp. "Ayame, who is she and why is she," gulp "not wearing anything?" Thinking that she might be the target of the glare, after all, she added "How come I'm wearing different clothes?" as a follow-up.
"What difference does size make?" The woman questioned and then pointed at Ayame with her eyes. "She's not wearing anything and it didn't bother you that she even hugged you. What place did you come from?" She finished sarcastically.
Ignoring her, Ayame supplied, "Rin-chan, we were ordered by Sesshoumaru-sama to change you into more appropriate clothes while you sleep." She started grabbing her hand and sliding in beautiful ring bracelets and attaching earrings to her ears. "That woman over there is Sara, a fellow nymph that was assigned to assist me. You see, here in the Underworld, there are nymphs, too. She's one of those."
"You're a nymph? Why are we the same size?"
Sara took a quick once-over at her and then whispered in a smug voice, "I doubt that". But then she composed herself, sat on the side of the bed with her legs crossed, and answered, "Are you really that naïve?" With Rin's questioning look, she continued, "How can I please my lord if I'm pretending to be a small, wholesome fairy, like that one over there?"
"Sara! No need to say that!" Ayame shouted, clearly shocked.
But Sara was not fazed. "All nymphs are like this, sweetheart. That fellow beside you seems to have fed you with the wrong impressions. Nymphs are born seductress; we lure men whenever we have the opportunity. To make it simple for you, we nymphs are more than willing to offer ourselves when the lord needs us."
Rin was not comfortable with the revelation. She can't be talking about the same lord, is she?
"That's not true!" Ayame said in defense. "We may have the power to seduce, but it is still up to us to choose how we live our life. Apparently nymphs down here are as twisted as the place itself!"
"Watch your mouth when you speak of the lord's kingdom!" Sara snapped.
"Is it true Ayame? Can you turn into my size, as well? Do you guys lure men when they wander in the forest?" Rin bombarded Ayame with questions. She didn't want to believe this Sara, but there was already a sharp pain piercing through her chest. The onslaught of information was too much for her.
Ayame decided that it was best to answer her by showing. She slowly grows larger to a woman as big and as alluring as Sara. The part of the bed beneath her shifted down due to her weight. The moment she stopped growing, Rin started crying. Ayame also released silent tears, but Rin's vision was too blurry to notice.
Sara formed a smile. Rin spotted it, but she was too heartbroken to wipe it off her smug face. Knowing that the god she was infatuated with was sleeping around willing women in his kingdom and knowing that her supposedly real friends had been lying to her all along was too much.
"You are my precious friends" she said in between sobs, "and yet you've kept me in the dark all along!"
Ayame tried to explain her side, "Rin-chan… we are your friends… but even friends have to keep secrets. We can't just say to you everything about our kind."
"Uh-huh… Yeah, I know, it's because I'm different. I'm not a god who demands respect; I'm not a fellow nymph… I'm just an odd human child who can easily be fooled! Apparently, I don't deserve to hear the whole truth!" Rin answered back in rage. "If we didn't see Sesshoumaru," to this, Sara's eye twitched, "I wouldn't even know that gods exist - that I'm not the only different human being, after all! Well, guess what, there is someone like me over here and she's sitting beside me! All those times we played, all of you guys letting me win because 'my legs are too long'… WHO ARE YOU KIDDING?"
"My thoughts exactly, human." Sara just had to rub it in. "I have noticed that you are also painfully plain. I don't see anything special on you; I'm still wondering why I have to take care of you." Tapping her chin, as if thinking, she added, "You should go back to your own kind."
Rin cried some more after hearing the stabbing remark. She felt like a child being bullied and she cannot do anything about it. She can't even order her tears to stop. She looked at Sara – the gorgeous woman, naked in all her beautiful glory with no hint of shyness, who said mean things to her in front of her face. And then she looked at herself – clad in a revealing dress that didn't seem to do its job to reveal. Sara definitely has the right to act confident and she's not hiding it. She blushes again, realizing that she'd been openly checking her out and comparing her and Ayame to herself in her mind. But again, she seems ok with it. She felt sad, insecure, betrayed, fooled, worthless, and most of all, alone in an unknown place.
Seeing her shaking and breaking down, Ayame hugged her from the side. She leaned her chin on her shoulder before kissing her cheek and resuming to hugging her. Rin did not notice any of this. If she did, she never showed any appreciation or comfort from the gesture.
Unknown to them all, Sesshoumaru had arrived moments ago at the door and with his sharp hearing, he has heard most of the outburst. He wanted to barge in and kill Sara, maybe melt her body along with her ego before he kills her off completely, but at the last minute, he managed to calm down. His reasonable, and usually dominant side of him, told him that Sara's words, as hurtful as they were, were mostly true and that if he wanted to keep Rin by his side in his kingdom, then it is best to be honest with her from the very start… something that is not granted to her since birth. He forced his breathing to return to normal as he tones down his rage. The only sign of the chaos he is feeling inside is the unconscious glowing of the tip of his fingertips. He managed to stay calm for the most of it, but when Sara rubbed the "human" remark and he heard Rin crying louder, he couldn't listen anymore. He loudly opened the doors and walked towards the women on his bed.
"You will cease this nonsense now, Sara. It would be best for you to avoid appearing in front of me for a century. You and Ayame can leave my room now and for Rin's sake," he spat the next words, "find. some. clothes!"
The two nymphs were gone in a flash and Rin was left crying in the middle of the huge bed dwarfing her and clutching the crumpled comforter.
Rin did not stop crying for a while and Sesshoumaru waited for her sobs to die down, never moving from his spot. Rin, on the other hand, only looked at him eye-to-eye when she was finished collecting herself. Despite her elegant appearance, all the god saw when their eyes met was a broken girl showing her pain to the world.
Sesshoumaru walked confidently, not showing his worries inside of him, and sat himself beside the girl in his bed. He draped his arm on her back and rubbed it in a comforting manner. When Rin leaned to his touch, the tension lessened and he released a breath that he didn't know he was holding.
This would be the moment when pride cannot stop him from doing anything… even apologising to his Rin.
"Rin, look at me…" He started in a soft voice that surprised even him. "Sara is too straightforward for her own good, I should've been more careful when I asked for a random nymph to assist Ayame. I will make sure that she doesn't repeat those harsh words again. Whatever she's told you, don't let it get to you. You are stronger than that." The god kissed the girl's left temple and as she let out a small smile, he couldn't think of anyone else to thank for making this girl in her arms as kind and understanding as she is. He tightened his hold on her and guided her to lean her head on his chest before he continued, "still, it's my fault for not going easy on you. I know this is too much for a human. I'm… sorry, Rin. Will you forgive this Sesshoumaru?"
"Is she your lover?" The question did not surprise him.
"No, Rin. But I've lived a long life..." He trailed.
Rin let out a giggle, and for the nth time, he was thankful at how cheerful she could be… at how easy it is to smile when she's near.
"If it's any consolation, I haven't been with her for decades."
Rin giggled again. This time, she has obviously reverted to her happy self and Sesshoumaru couldn't help but revert to his smirking self.
"That's why she was glaring at me. She probably thinks you were going to bed me, tee-hee-hee! Ne, Sesshoumaru, how old are you?"
Some unknown god must be being nice to him because she let go of her assumption as soon as she said the words. Now, to answer her inquiry, "819".
"…wow." Rin didn't know what to say to that. She can't say "Too old for me!" or "Do you date waaay younger women?" No, no, that'd be too stupid seeing that he's a god! She resigned to staring at her lap, and sometime along the awkward silence, she noticed that her chest was too exposed from her point-of-view. Maybe another change-of-topic, no matter how awkward again it is, might make the conversation going and their eyes not directed at her chest. After all, she has yet to ask Sesshoumaru when he will bring her back home.
"Ano, Sesshoumaru, do you think I can change clothes? This is too revealing for my taste. Are my real clothes in the washer or something? Hehehehe. I feel like I look like I'm begging to become a nymph, heheh."
The god just looked at her and kissed her forehead. "You look good in that attire. I picked it up myself."
Silence.
More silence.
Blush.
Change of topic, not good.
"Anooo… The truth is, I'm feeling conscious. I should be thankful I didn't wake up naked, ha ha, but I honestly do not have the body to flaunt with it. These jewelleries are also kinda… flashy, don't you think?"
"I have the wealth, so why not?" Now we're back to his infamous smirk.
"Well then, have you heard of bras, Sesshoumaru-sama. I figured there weren't one a few hundred years ago, but it's pretty common nowadays. Some women are ok not wearing it… I'm not one of those women. It's really… uncomfortable when I move." Rin pouted.
"No, I haven't heard of that." He answered stoically as he slides off the bed leaving the pouting girl.
Sesshoumaru started walking towards the door, which automatically opens as he nears, and Rin being used to his attitude by this time, knows that it's his way of asking her to follow. As the previous signs of sweetness drained down the gutter, Rin noted to herself that she would have to review proper manners to this god in the near future.
She put on the girl shoes at the food of the bed. Thankfully, it was as humble as her old flats, but elegant enough to match her dress which was threatening to open up and show more skin at every movement. She stood and walked stiffly, like walking the normal way would make her excuse-of-a-gown slide to the ground. She really didn't lie when she told Sesshoumaru that it was uncomfortable. The satin looked too delicate and it is more of lightly brushing her skin than making her feel that she's actually wearing it. She was seriously considering asking the god about her clothes again when she thought of the tactless nymph that belittled her earlier. There is no way that she would lose to such meanie! With new found determination, she accepted the fact that she's going to wear the gown for the rest of her stay here. She may not have a body to flaunt, but she can show how to carry herself properly!
As she passed by the life-sized mirror near the door, she was frozen in mid-stride. She felt the fabric of her dress to be too thin and revealing, but when she saw herself in the mirror, it didn't look disturbing at the slightest bit. It actually looked like fine pieces of expensive satin elegantly draped on her body. The long gown of peachy pink color was held in place at the back of her neck by stylish metal rings that matched her accessories. The flowing fabric then went to rest on her breasts until it draped on her waist, leaving her backless. The rest of the gown was fashionably wrapped on each other to give her a waterfall of a skirt. It made her look delicate and it definitely fell on the right places to give the illusion of curves. Sesshoumaru is not gay, is he? Lack of being conservative aside, the god has some taste for a guy who is alone all the time in a kingdom were the women residents are comfortable without clothing. The girl in her got excited and it didn't take long before she was twirling in front of the mirror and smiling at her dress at every angle.
Sesshoumaru saw her admiring the dress and felt pride for pleasing his soon-to-be queen. Rin, who was too happy to realize that she wasn't blushing at the closeness, hugged his arm and told him to lead the way. "Where are we going, Sesshoumaru?" she said.
"You're going to eat." was his answer.
"Okay, I'm starving!" She replied merrily.
During dinner, that was surprisingly ready the moment they arrived at the dining room, Sesshoumaru explained to Rin that it was prepared specifically for her because people down here are not required to eat. He promised to tour her around his kingdom the whole day tomorrow. For the meantime, she is to eat dinner and get a proper rest.
"What about my return?"
"We shall discuss it tomorrow."
"Ow-kay…" I hope my mom doesn't get mad at me tomorrow.
Thanks to the delicious meal, Rin's sadness and worries were completely forgotten. She had to keep her poise while eating because she remembers that she's wearing an indecent but very lady-like gown, she cannot just shove all the food into her mouth in an un-lady-like manner. The hunger from not eating lunch was finally taking its toll on her. She held the wine glass filled with juice and before she closes the distance of the glass to her lips, she had to admire how the glass was also decorated with cringles that match the elegance of the rest of the castle, silverware included. She hastily drank three-fourths of the cold juice out of thirst. That was a wrong move because she felt her body shiver with cold. A few seconds later, her nipples were hardening which made her feel more chilled. She tried to inconspicuously cover it with her forearms while eating the rest of her meal, acting like it's not affecting her or anything. She discreetly looked at Sesshoumaru, who had nothing in front of him but a glass of wine. He was silently watching her with amusement-filled eyes. Crap. Rin choked. Must be out of embarrassment and annoyance. She grabbed the juice again and drank the rest, poise forgotten. If he didn't tell her earlier that he's not required to eat, she'd definitely come up with the conclusion that he would eat her after dinner… like those well-fed victims in children's stories!
When bed time came, Rin wasn't hesitant to go back Sesshoumaru's comfortable bed. She may be too trusting, but she wants to believe that the god is fair and would not take advantage of her. She had this theory that he was just a loner seeking for a companion in his large palace. What made her hesitant was the fact that she had nothing to prepare herself to bed, but the god quickly remedied it by showing her to the equally large ensuite that has everything she needs. She was even surprised to see matching pair of pajamas inside, she was thankful it wasn't a night gown. It looked cute, just like how she wants it and it felt comfortable, too. She'd have to thank Sesshoumaru for everything before she leaves.
When she came back to the bedroom, Sesshoumaru was dressed in cotton pants and shirt, an all-white attire again. What puzzled her was when she saw him moving towards the door.
"Sesshoumaru, don't leave!"
The god looked at her over his shoulder. One fine eyebrow raised.
"Please stay… I don't want to be left alone."
"Rin, gods aren't required to eat, but we do need a few hours of sleep."
Rin, who was curling her fingers, couldn't look him in the eye. "I'm not asking you to watch me sleep."
"What is it then?" Hmm, interesting…
"What I'm saying is… I don't mind sleeping with you. The bed's huge and… and… this is your room…"
"And?" Having caught the troubled sound in her voice, he prodded for more answers.
"I want you to stay. I'm gonna get nervous if you leave me alone. You're the only one I know here."
"Wouldn't that be Ayame?" Ah, the separation anxiety must be starting. He thought. All he got in response was a shake of her head.
The two stood still for a moment - Rin's eyes pleading and Sesshoumaru's asking if she was sure on what she's requesting of him.
"Very well". The god walked towards his 'guest', who climbed up the bed, and soon joined her.
As soon as they were side by side, Rin leaned on Sesshoumaru and he stretched his arm to have her in his embrace. The two slept together for the first time, none of them voicing out that it was like a routine in the making.
The next morning, Rin woke up to find Sesshoumaru watching her sleep. He was still on his side of the bed, but he had himself distanced from her, which was explained by a single look on his – she couldn't think of any other word - costume. He is wearing black this time and he had what looked like a detail-heavy armor with gray spikes. His arm guards had spikes, too, and she was thankful for the space between them, although she is already missing the warmth from him last night. She smiled at him as she memorizes what he looks like in a ponytail. He looked good in black, it was another striking contrast to his silver-white hair mixing with the…
"…sunlight?" She looked at her surrounding again. Yep, I'm still in the same room.
"I'm afraid those are not real. The glass windows are provided by some god I know and I had it reflect the daylight from your hometown. Do you like it?" I only used it because you're here.
"Yeah, it feels good to be woken up by the sun. But next time, I'd rather get used to how dark it is in here."
"Next time." It wasn't a question and there was a ghost of a smile on his lips.
Now why did I say that? It made her blush and completely awake.
After a few minutes of stretching, Rin slid off the bed, intending on looking at the balcony. True to Sesshoumaru's word, the outside was as black as night. She glanced again at the sunrays coming off the tall windows and she had to laugh at what she saw.
"So what happens now?"
Rin concluded that Sesshoumaru's ball of light was as good as teleportation. They were outside his castle grounds before she can comprehend what was happening. They seem to be in the same location where they landed yesterday, but because they were facing the area where they came from, she was noticing the odd river for the first time.
It was the River of the Dead, the River Styx in mythology, in front of her eyes; she couldn't believe what she was seeing! It looked endless, but according to Sesshoumaru, another mass of land lay on the other side where dead souls are to wander until they were fetched by the imp god he once saved and at present is loyally serving him named Jaken. She looked at the waters again, if you could call it that. She could tell that it was deep, but it was not exactly because it was clear or empty. The body was composed of bluish light swirling and splashing on the sides like real waves. She tried to get a closer look to make sure that those are really faded images of people; meanwhile the god beside her was explaining to her that it is where the souls are to sleep until they are summoned for resurrection. Although some stays there in the deepest part for good, and his reason was because they are the ones meant to be punished for eternity.
"That's it? You're just leaving them there to sleep?" Rin wondered.
"I can call them whenever I want, and when I do, they became conscious of their existence despite being helpless."
"How are they helpless?"
"They rise as hooded figures with no flesh inside. I can make them do whatever I want and they can feel it, but they cannot move against it. It is only I who has total control over them. You could say they are my army here; I could also hurt them again and again if I feel like it, but since it's been peaceful here for centuries, they are more like my servants now. In fact, they are the ones that prepared your dinner and breakfast, in case you're wondering."
"Huwaaaaaaah!" Rin was paling second by second. "Are you sure you weren't poisoning me since I came here?"
Smirk.
"Those food I ate aren't going to bind me here, aren't it?"
The god only barked a laugh. "No." I will bind you here.
"You sure?"
"Yes."
As if she weren't freaked enough, a number of souls rose from the river. They started as blurry waves going upwards and then when they touched the ground, they became more solid-looking, only to be covered quickly by smokes of black that would soon mould into large hoods. Rin thought Sesshoumaru finally ordered them to eat her alive, when he pointed towards a distance.
"Jaken."
The small god clad in brown robes looked like an imp indeed. He was riding a beautiful boat with several souls as passengers. Instead of a paddle, he was carrying a scary-looking staff that was too tall and too big for his height. It had two heads twisting to each other on the top end. He seems to use it to navigate the boat, although Rin can't help but notice that the heads seem to have their own minds because it kept moving and their eyes kept looking on their direction. She hoped those heads doesn't get near her.
It wasn't long before Jaken was off the boat. He only stopped to bow down in front of Sesshoumaru and then with the assistance of the hooded figures, he led the souls inside the castle, to the throne room for judgement.
"I'm just relieved they ignored me." Was all Rin could say before they walked on a leisurely pace to head to the same room.
Knowing she'd be seeing the two-headed dragon again, Rin chatted with Sesshoumaru to distract herself.
"Um, Sesshoumaru, I know we're in a sort of different dimension, but can I ask why there are stars when there's no sun?"
"Those are not stars, just scattered light produced by my power. Everything here in controlled by me, including the lights and the electricity." Rin nodded in understanding. "If I die by accident, everything here will perish."
"Woah… You have some serious responsibilities here, no?"
"Ah, but compared to someone I know, I know that although strict, I am doing a good job at ruling my kingdom. It gives me the opportunity to slack whenever I want, knowing that my realm would not be left unmanaged."
"Ehhh, you lazy boss." Rin joked with a grin. "That's why you were slacking at the woods, huh?"
"Ah."
"I admit your kingdom is worth every praise, but it is kinda making me sad that there's no trees and stuff in here. It makes me think of how you must feel, having to go up just to see greenery."
"There is no nature down here, but there is a tree."
"Ah, yes, there is a nymph here, I remember." She replied bitterly.
"His name is Bokusenou. He's a powerful tree and the only one that can survive here. The nymph you've met is one of his daughters." He continued nonchalantly. "After judging today's batch of souls, I will take you there to meet him."
"Errr, I don't like the idea of meeting those women, Sesshoumaru."
To this, he only smiled, making her sigh.
"Okay, I guess, I could go there for Bokusenou. I'm curious on what he's like."
A whimper interrupted their conversation and Rin saw that they were already in the open gates, with Ah-Un inside the walls this time. He was whimpering as if asking his master permission to go near them.
And his mouths were covered now. This made her realize that he wasn't as scary as before, but it also bothered her for some reason.
"Awww…" She was slowly nearing Ah-Un on her own. "Sesshoumaru, why are his mouths sealed?"
"If the circumstances call for it, he can remove it on his own. For now, it stays there as his punishment for making you faint yesterday."
Rin lifted her hands to tap Ah-Un and the now shy dragon was happy to have the lady touch him. "Poor thing. Sesshoumaru-sama doesn't mean it." Then to Sesshoumaru's amusement, Rin unlocked the coverings on his mouth. The heads embraced the giggling girl by trapping her in between their necks and they've become friends instantly. "Sesshoumaru, I like them now!" she said, referring to the heads.
"Ah-Un!" The god called to the happy creature. He leaned down and to Rin's shock, she was hoisted up by Sesshoumaru. He embraced her like before, only to jump and have them resting on the dragon's back.
"Weeeee! This is so cool!"
"Walk us back to the palace, Ah-Un." Sesshoumaru ordered and the group went on their walk, with the girl giggling non-stop.
At the throne room, Rin was suspicious that there was an extra seat, but she brushed it off when Sesshoumaru told her it was for her. Jaken had already aligned the souls at the middle and the hooded figures were on standby on each sides of the room. Rin found it annoyingly funny that Jaken was talkative and yet with one "shut up" from his lord, he zips his mouth and become mute.
The morning hours flew past with Sesshoumaru attending to the souls and Rin being the attentive audience. She was really entranced by the way he rules and she would ask questions like "why can't he just let the hooded figures resurrect like the others?" To which he would answer that "their punishment is to be forbidden from having another chance at life and enjoying the earth".
"Good souls are meant to be reincarnated. It is a tiring cycle, but it is the only option for them because their mortal bodies die easily. That is why they should value their brief existence." That is what Sesshoumaru would usually say and Rin wonders, "How will I be judged when I die…" but Sesshoumaru choose not to answer.
"Ne, Sesshoumaru-sama," She seems to enjoy calling him that from time to time, although she is not obligated to. "You're not this talkative when we first met. Is it because we're in your comfort zone?"
"Hm." He replied, teasingly contradicting her observation.
Once the judging of the souls were all done, Sesshoumaru ordered Jaken to leave them alone. He knew there is an inevitable confrontation between Rin and him and he decided that now is the best time to inform her of his true intentions.
Rin, who was watching him to be deep in thought while staring at the closed doors for a few minutes now, wasn't surprised when he finally brought up a pressing issue.
"Rin, you should forgive Ayame. She means no harm." He said as his starting point.
"I know that. But it doesn't take away the feeling of upset." Both of them were surprised by her bold response. It seems like a day in his kingdom has already awakened another side of her.
"You're only going to upset yourself more by hating someone for something that is irreversible."
Rin opened her mouth for a bitter retort, but the god beat her to it, "You know that, as well."
"Hmph." Was all the girl could say before settling in with her cute pout.
"All living being – whether they be god, human, nymph or other magical creatures – need to decide what is important to them the most. Once they've found out what it is, they develop the will to protect it. And when protecting it, there will come a time when they will have to do something against their will to keep what's important to them safe."
"What's important to you, Sesshoumaru?"
"You."
Rin was stunned. She didn't think he'd actually say something like that when she blurted the question.
"What about this kingdom you rule?"
"A kingdom with no life would have to be second in place."
She didn't know what to say anymore. She was always rendered speechless. At least, she managed to evade the topic.
"Ayame is not a human being." Or maybe not. "No matter how much her kind likes you, they must've vowed to protect each other first and foremost. It is understandable why they keep some things to themselves. Even you keep things to yourself. Even your mother is not any different."
Keeping her pout in place was the only thing she could do. He is right, of course, it was just upsetting to be kept in the dark by your friends and a teenager like her is entitled to reach a boiling point or two. But why was her mom chosen to be an example, of all people?
"Okaachan…"
"Is worse than Ayame, or rather, better at keeping secrets."
"You know her? And you didn't tell me?"
"Meeting each other is probably the most memory we have shared. To put it simply, we're not exactly on good terms."
"H-How?"
"I am not the right person to explain this to you." Then with pleading eyes and a touch from his hand, he continued, "Please, let us not rush things, Rin." Deep inside, he knew he was already contradicting himself for he was the one who was so eager to take away his future queen from her parent. "In time, you will meet someone who can explain all these things to you."
"How can I trust you when you're being secretive? How are you any different then?"
"I only said I am not the right person to answer you, but I did not say that I will keep it from you. I'm not going to keep you in the dark," figuratively, of course, "this one will make sure that you will have the respect that you deserve from now on."
With genuine concern shown in his piercing eyes, she couldn't accuse him of deceiving her anymore. He could be a god of illusion for all she knew.
"What's there to talk about, then? How do I explain to my mom why I've been here all this time?"
"You won't have to… You'll be staying here… as my queen." He said in a whisper.
"Do you KNOW what you're saying?" She didn't know if she should be flattered or alarmed! Her wishes are being granted the wrong way! "I'd have to be dead to stay here for good! Sesshoumaru, I was only staying by your side because I thought you were lonely."
Hurt filled his eyes and she immediately regretted saying those words.
"I am lonely." He said in a voice so low, like it was the truth that he couldn't let out. "But everything will be fine now because of your presence. I will make you my queen, Rin… The Lady of my realm, of the Underworld." He said with finality.
Is that his sick way of proposing so soon? "You sound like I have no say." She said, jokingly.
"That's because you don't." He said, firmly.
She had to have courage with her words, she told herself. Now is the time to be frank, if that's the last thing she could manage. "Sesshoumaru, you can't take me away from my life. I have a home in the Upper Earth. What about school? I'm only 16, remember? How am I going to handle all of this?"
"That is why I've been introducing you to the ways here, and judging from today's events, you were faring quite well. Also, we have plenty of time ahead of us."
"I'm mortal." This is my last card, right?
"…."
"Sesshoumaru!"
"I can teach you on my own, Rin. I have knowledge way beyond a person's lifespan. If you think you should really go to school, you, as my queen, will be allowed to do as you wish. I am not so selfish as to trap you here."
"So you're saying, we will only give us a shot, but I could still live my life? Well, that's reasonable." She tried to downplay things; she hoped it's what it seems. It sounds logical that way.
But he was thinking otherwise. "No. You can leave my realm whenever you want, but you are to return here as this will be your new home." He said with finality.
Rin could only sigh. Save for the fact that she is forced to stay here, everything that he has said was within reason. Truthfully, she wasn't opposed to the idea as much as she tries to argue… and that's what truly bothers her. She felt like she was only clearing up things for argument's sake, or maybe, for her family's sake. Maybe he's a god of mind control now? As demanding as it sounds, she knew it was his sweet way of saying that he can't be without her from this point onwards, and she'd have to be stupid to deny that she feels the same. Deep down, on the very core of her being, on every vein pulsing and running through her body, both of them know that there is already a strong bond forming between her and this place. It must have something to do with her feelings for Sesshoumaru because there is no denying that there is a force making itself known and connecting the two of them ever since they first bumped into each other at the busy streets of the Upper Earth.
"I know you've felt it, too. You're not very hard to read, Rin."
With her voice slowly expressing defeat, she tried another argument. "We can't rely on chemistry alone. We have to make sure we can stand each other, before I even consider accepting your offer to become your queen."
"Gods are different, Rin. We live for a long time, unless we force death upon us, eternal life is even possible. That makes our feelings stronger and our decision-making firmer. We don't get carried away and just blame it on hormones."
Seeing that she's already losing, unless she knows a way to leave this realm on her own, Rin decided to just go with the flow for a little longer. After all, despite the harsh realities that she's discovered since her appearance here, Sesshoumaru has shown her nothing but kindness and warmth. And because she's still upset over Ayame, especially that Sara, she can't really ask anyone else for help, although it was already clear the Ayame could do nothing, anyway. Might as well stay calm and positive… See what more Sesshoumaru has to offer. Surely, being a queen to my own kingdom with a caring ruler like him can't be that bad… What's important is she's safe, her kaachan and her obaachan would be relieved.
For the meantime, she could fill this empty palace with some warmth of her own. Unconsciously, she was smiling.
"Hm, obviously… I'm being held captive," with his pointy glare, she waved her hands and let out a shaky laugh, "hehehehe, I'm not mad, ok? So don't be. Anyway, we both know I can't fight you or get out of here on my own, so… Can I propose a deal?"
"I'm listening, my queen."
"Hehehehe." She scratched the back of her head. "If I promise to behave and give your kingdom a chance, will you tell my mother that I'm safe here? It's only fair, isn't it?"
"You are more than safe in this place, Rin. And there is no need for that. By now, someone must have already informed your mother of your whereabouts. She'd be mad, like all mothers are likely to be, but she will not doubt your safety."
Sweat was forming on her forehead. Indeed, her mother would be erupting like a volcano once she found out.
"…I guess we have a deal now?"
"Mm, Deal." The god of the Underworld moved to stand up.
"Sesshoumaru," the girl said with a commanding tone, "since I'm giving you a chance, I'd like you to know that I'm not to follow you like a servant." Sesshoumaru's eyes widened a fraction before narrowing and grinning evilly. "You are to inform me properly and then to wait for me, if you want me to come with you." Rin stated, remembering her note to self to force some manners on him.
"You learn quick." He was referring to her authoritative tone. He stretched a hand and paused in exaggeration before saying, "After you, my queen".
Rin smiled a victorious grin. She jumped from her tall seat and walked ahead of Sesshoumaru, chin up. She haven't reached very far from the double doors when it hit her, "Where are we going, exactly?"
There was nothing else that could make Rin gloomier at the moment. A few distances from the back of Sesshoumaru's castle was Bokusenou, the gigantic tree… and nothing else. The tree may radiate power and the hundreds of nymphs lounging on it may give off light when touching their creator, but its surrounding area was as bare as the front of the castle. Even with the tall walls that she could view from afar, she could tell that it's just a stretch of land and emptiness beyond it. She didn't mind the night sky, but the lack of plants springing to life made her have second thoughts on if she could really live in such place. Of course, they would need the sun to grow. It must feel lacking to live without nature. Now she understood why Sesshoumaru's eyes were showing so much appreciation for it yesterday.
"Why would such beauty look so miserable in front of me?" The old tree, whose face was carved in the middle of its trunk, asked sweetly. She was still getting the wrong feeling towards the nymphs, especially now that there are more of them openly looking at her, but Bokusenou appeared to be a nice and respectable being, like an elderly man with overflowing knowledge.
"I'm sorry… I was just heartbroken that there were no plants and flowers in here. It must be lonely to be all alone." She looked at Sesshoumaru and he was quiet, as if silently agreeing with her.
"Ha ha ha! My, it's been so long since I moved here, my lady. I hardly notice loneliness at all. Besides, I have my daughters with me. They may be cunning, but they provide good entertainment."
"Moved here?"
"Back then when my father was the ruler, there were no walls between the Upper and the Lower Earth." Sesshoumaru supplied. "He was quite powerful, he could rule both. When he was about to die, he divided it into two worlds and I was given the responsibility of ruling this one. It was when Bokusenou descended to be a part of this realm. He had a twin tree which was left in the Upper Earth."
Rin was frowning with her eyebrows knit together.
"That was a good summary, Sesshoumaru-sama." Bokusenou said with understanding in his eyes, and then he looked at the girl feeling sympathy for him. "But I believe there is no need to talk about distant memories from our past. I am honored to be the guardian of my lord's kingdom. In fact, I have never been happier than today."
"Happy?" She asked.
"Ah, because before this day, my lord was the loner in his own kingdom. Today, though, he seemed to have found someone to keep him company for good."
"Ooooooh, look she's blushing!" It was the nymphs who noticed it and thanks to them, Rin blushed even harder.
To save her from embarrassment, Sesshoumaru took her hand and led her to sit beside him in one of Bokusenou's large roots. The women saw the protective gesture and cut their whispers.
Only one did not know how to read the signs for her own good.
"Sesshoumaru-sama, why must you introduce this unworthy girl to my father? I find it disrespectful, if I'm allowed to say so." It was Sara. She was glaring and Rin was returning the favor.
The god closed his eyes for a moment, as if giving himself time to rest. "No, you are not allowed to say so. I thought I already warned you, Sara. Be gone now or else I will give you a slow, painful death in front of your father and sisters."
The nymph couldn't believe her lord was serious. She slowly took a step back before ascending and disappearing in Bokusenou's thick branches. Not all nymphs were visible to Rin's eyes, but she could only assume that there were more of them in hiding because the laughter which started grew tenfold.
When Sesshoumaru opened his eyes, there was a small girl in place of Sara.
"Hi, my name's Aika. Sorry about my sister, not all of us are rude here. We're glad to have you in our kingdom."
Rin took the offered hand and shook it. The size wasn't very far from hers. The nymph looked very young and innocent, too.
Aika smiled, noticing the similarity of their hands. In fact, it was not only their hands that were similar, she had long dark hair, as well, and dark round eyes that were pointed towards the edges. She looked like a younger version of Rin and somehow, it pleased her. "I'm thirteen years old. I'm the youngest one around here." Then as if stating the obvious, she said, "we're alike!" and the two girls laughed like schoolgirls who just found a friend at the first day of classes.
The laughter shared by the two made Rin feel a lot better. She almost thought she was the most innocent and naïve-looking person in this place! The cheerful aura of the nymph also reminded her of her old friends at the forest. She felt a lot better now, not to mention, forgiving, knowing that there are still some of those creatures here that she has come to love so easily, although seeing them in their larger forms would still take some adjusting.
Sometime during her constant giggling, Sesshoumaru, who was still sitting close to her, lifted her to his lap and stole a kiss on the sensitive part of her neck. Rin was shocked to the point of having pleasurable goosebumps as she has never been touched in such a way before. She felt a moan coming and her mind started to panic, but then she remembered she was talking to Aika, in front of all these nymphs, and she couldn't possibly act all immature and stupid and demand the god why he was harassing her in such a way where she could not show anger and fight back. She continued her chat with Aika and wished to the heavens that the unseen nymphs above weren't talking about her blush. Thankfully, nobody teased her about it and her ragged breathing soon went back to normal. She wholeheartedly continued chatting merrily and Sesshoumaru settled to lightly resting the palms of his hands on her waist.
Her bonding moment with the nymphs went on for a while. Sesshoumaru was now, thankfully, too far to perform any surprise attacks and was appearing to be contented by silently watching her from his seat. When it was time to go, the god only gave a nod to the tree and walked away. Rin was too elated to notice that he was back to his stoic-follow-me self again and just skipped her way to catch up with him. When they were almost inside the castle, Rin remembered that she forgot to say 'thank you' for cheering her up.
"Wait, Sesshoumaru!"
"Hn?"
"I forgot to say something. Wait for me here please!" Before he could ask what it was, she was running towards the tree again, her long skirt hiked up to avoid tripping.
"Did our lady forget something?" The tree asked as soon as he saw the girl.
Rin never notices how much she has travelled when with Sesshoumaru, and so she didn't realize that she ran a long way to go back. It was when she has stopped in front of her destination that she felt the fatigue from all her running. Before answering the tree, she leaned on the closest part of it that she can reach, and that was in between its body and a thick raised root. She gently leaned her hand, to be followed by her forehead, to rest while the tree waited patiently. Until…
"My lady, you are tickling me! Ahahaha!" Bokusenou said with laughter.
"Ehhh?" Rin exclaimed with her eyes still closed. When she finally regained her breath and opened it, she became conscious that she had been panting heavily on Bokusenou. She made a small jump backwards in understanding.
"Heheh, sorry! I just came back to say thank you for cheering me up. I had fun in your company and even if Sesshoumaru never said a word, I know he did, too!"
"It was our pleasure, Rin-sama!" Aika voiced from above. And upon looking up, Rin was amused that she was hanging upside down like a monkey.
"I'm glad, Aika! Thank you, you guys! Bokusenou-sama! I hope I'm welcome to come back anytime!"
"Of course you are." One of the nymphs smiled at her.
"Just drop by whenever you feel like it." Another one said.
"Hn!" Maybe it was Sara?
Rin smiled a genuine smile and said her goodbyes. "Okaaay! BYE BYE!" She waved her hands high up and the nymphs, at least those she could make out from the tree, did the same.
She moved to jump about face, but before she could make a complete turn, she saw a tiny cringle of green sprouting in the midst of the dark shade of brown that was Bokusenou's body. She realized it was the same spot where she just leaned moments ago.
A light bulb formed in Rin's head! There is still hope!
With a smile spreading from ear to ear, Rin sang one final goodbye and excitedly ran back to the god waiting for her.
As she ran, she couldn't stop the onslaught of happy thoughts inside her head. After what she has discovered, she knew that she could find a way to make this place homier. Her feelings weren't just on Sesshoumaru alone; she was really growing an attachment to his kingdom. She had to give him credit for ruling it well.
A place without sugar-coating… A place where you can be your true self…
Without realizing, she was already thinking on how she can help in improving it in her own little ways. She felt like maintaining it in its organized state was the most natural thing to do.
She wanted to be in charge… and to be worthy of doing it.
As she reached Sesshoumaru, she stopped to look at the man who has brought her here directly in the eyes. An evil smile that none of those who knew her has ever seen before crept up her angelic face.
Sesshoumaru looked at her intently. Of course, being the king of this place himself, he wouldn't show his surprise and allow himself to be beaten by the girl before him. He slowly smiled a dangerous, wicked smile to match hers.
Rin was impressed he could keep his curiosity to himself. But as for her, her thoughts were focusing on one thing,
The Underworld… Maybe this is where I will bloom.
"Sorry to keep you waiting!" And then she was back to her old self, just like that.
If he was amazed at how quickly she could change, he didn't show it. Instead he questions her with a raise of a finely-shaped eyebrow.
"Tee-hee-hee! It's nothing, it's nothing!" Rin giggled and laced her fingers with Sesshoumaru's. She looked up at his tall figure and smiled her most innocent smile. "Let's go back inside, Sesshoumaru!"
Author's Notes:
Chapter 4 is way looonger than I imagined! I hope the length made up for the previous chapter's cliffy because my hands are all limp now. (x_x) This is when reviews are like Sesshoumaru's "I will kill you" but then saves you with fluff on top!
I really need my readers' opinion at this point because I do not want their relationship to look rushed. If you are familiar with the myth, then you should know that we are nearing an important part of this story. *cough mating cough*
Also, I'm doing my best to avoid the fairytale-ish path. If I didn't succeed, maybe an Underworld Fairytale would do? XD
Lastly, has anybody noticed that Jaken looks like a Tonberry from Final Fantasy? (He got me excited that I actually grabbed my materials to make a fanart of him, ohoho~!) That was the deciding factor for including him in the Underworld! Because honestly, he's not the least bit intimidating. Might as well make him cute! *forcefully hands him a plush knife*
Next chapter, we'll see how Kagome is faring with her daughter's abduction. :o
