Chapter 12

After the night Sesshomaru came by, Rin was kept super busy out and around the village.

Cooking lessons with Asa, checking all the pregnant women and sick children, delivering and searching for herbs in the cold, and the harsh snowy winter had Rin wishing there were more hours in the day. Occasionally, there were wonderful days were Sesshomaru would stop by and either Kaede or Kagome would carry her load, and often more than not, Rin and Sesshomaru would end up leaving the village to go on walks or check out the market.

In those days, Sesshomaru's bad attitude didn't reappear, in fact, he even seemed happy at the smallest things. It made all the difference to Rin and damn, was she grateful to spend quality time with her love.

But when the new year arrived, Sesshomaru stopped visiting often.

His reasoning was simple for not coming by and he explained it one day while they shopped for new dishes at the market.

"Kohaku is far too weak to monitor an area I just won domain over. I'll watch it myself until his health has returned."

With a her best pokerface on, Rin smiled and nodded, refusing to complain, knowing the fact that Kohaku's health was somewhat her fault. But when she noticed Sesshomaru absence as the weeks past, she began feeling lonesome.

The house was now intimately big, the rooms and hallway way too large and long for her liking. One early morning, Rin found herself getting lost on her way to the weaponry and almost died of shame when Kaede found her outside trying to make a knife from pine leaves. After cleaning the entire house one cold evening, she noticed Sesshomaru's preferred teacups growing dusty. Out of an act of both love and longing, Rin drank from them every morning and evening there on, pressing her lips where she watched him do it so often. And everyday, she made sure to wear kimonos she knew were some of his favorites in the hopes he'd return and compliment her, taking her away like he had just a month prior.

All this damn waiting. Why doesn't Kohaku just suck it up?

Rin practically bitchslapped the dough she was preparing when she turned around and noticed a little orange box out of place in Sango's kitchen.

Looks like those gift boxes my lord sends me…

She stared at it curiously and hesitantly reached for box, immediately recognizing the handwriting on a note attached to it.

My favorite, it read.

Rin's heart pounded in her chest and she quickly undid the bindings, finding a jar of cinnamon sticks. She blinked in confusion, scratching her head as she tilted the jar.

Favorite? What is Lord Sesshomaru talking about?

"Lady Rin, I've finished cutting all the apple, what els— oh wow Lady Rin!" Rin turned to face Yumi, jar close to her face. "Those sticks are exactly the color of your eyes! I've never seen anything so precise, my lady!"

Rin knotted her brows, looking at them once again. "Huh, you think so?"

"Yes! I must admit, you have the most beautiful brown eyes in this village, my lady. Only Papa and Komori's dark blue eyes rival yours," Yumi giggled.

Rin smiled and placed the jar down to take a stick out. "Let's use one of these for the pastries we're making Mama, okay?" she winked, earning a happy clap from the twin.


— — —

It wasn't until Sango also pointed out how perfectly the color of the cinnamon sticks matched the maiden's eyes and how it happened to be one of her favorite colors did Rin realize what the note was referring to.

All those months ago, I asked him if even had a favorite color, she blushed prettily as she gazed upon her small looking glass, and he basically lied to me then. But I know the truth! Rin giggled happily, kicking her feet around like a happy little child.


— — —

Presents like those started appearing more and more as the days went by. She was used to the regular gifts Jaken would deliver: hairpins, kimonos, makeup, but those never included notes.

For a cold night when I'm not there.

Rin had smirked when she first pulled out the soft, white fur blanket from the box, but didn't hesitate using it when a powerful hail storm came down just a few days later.

Stay healthy.

Herbs, an abundance of them, in different baskets along with an arrangement of seafood. Kaede had gasped in awe, pointing out how many of the herbs weren't even in season.

To match your soul.

A pair of beautiful, yellow adamant earrings. Rin wore them during a local wedding, flaring up the rumors again that she was probably royalty.

Asa says hello and sends kisses. Those will delivered apart from this.

Her heart almost leaped out of her chest reading it, and she ran to her dressing room, picking out an arrangement of greens and pinks to quickly change into should he be near.

That same evening, Sesshomaru arrived after she finished eating supper.

Rin jumped into his arms, enamored with his presence and beauty.

"My lord, thank you for delivering a new handkerchief. It was badly needed," she confessed between joyful laughter.

Sesshomaru didn't say anything at first, his soft gaze fixed upon her pink lips. "Asa didn't want you ruining any sleeves. She asked it be an emergency delivery."

"Well, I'm glad for it since I get to be with you," Rin whispered.

The dog demon said nothing else, dragging her into the darkness of night and losing each other in urgent and loving kisses.


— — —

"I assume Kohaku still hasn't progressed greatly, huh."

They stood by the main door, prolonging the moment as much as they could.

Sesshomaru shook his head. "It seems that these in past weeks, Kohaku began his perimeter checks in the South. Unfortunately, the area is too unstable for a weakling to cover it alone. I don't trust his state of health just yet," he admitted.

Rin frowned, lowering her eyes. "I understand that, milord. My hope and prayer is that he gets better so that we may resume our regular schedule once more."

"Hmm," Sesshomaru reached over, embracing her softly. She closed her eyes, enjoying the feel of the silk garments he wore. "Have you been enjoying the gifts, Rin?"

"Ah, very much so! They're all so wonderful and thoughtful. And your calligraphy is quite impressive milord," Rin complimented.

He appeared pleased at the comment as he stepped back. "Should you require anything else, don't be afraid to ask for it. I will summon it for you immediately."

Rin nodded, holding onto the handle of the main door again. "Everything's okay for now."

Sesshomaru nodded, taking in the sight of her before walking into the night.


— — —

"Thanks for helping out with the kids, Rin. You know Kagome and I appreciate you alot," Inuyasha said, reaching out for her as she encountered a root.

Rin held unto his grip and he led her into a worn out path in the forest.

"Well, you're lucky this morning I was only cleaning my hut. Either way, I might have to clean it again since the kids made such a mess," Rin winced.

The half-demon snickered, nudging her lightly. "You call that castle a 'hut'? Geez, can't imagine the mess they've made with all the space," he chuckled.

Rin mock-groaned, smiling at him. She enjoyed spending time with Inuyasha, something she did often when he waited for Kagome by the well and then again after Kagome began popping out children. They had bonded over the years in their solitude, both of them waiting for the people they loved the most.

Nowadays though, it seemed like she got less time with him, and since they had a few to spare while the kids took a nap, Inuyasha suggested a walk.

"So Sesshomaru came over last night," Inuyasha inquired.

"Yes," Rin confirmed, sliding her arms into her sleeves.

"And you two are a couple now."

"Yes."

"Aren't you…" Inuyasha stopped, halting Rin in the process. She raised a questioning brow. "Aren't you worried Rin?"

"About?" she held her breath, anticipating his next words.

"Messing around demons isn't perceived as a good thing, Rin," he said sternly, "you know firsthand the rejection that comes being around them. And even that being said, shit I hate to admit, but Sesshomaru ain't just another demon. He's looked as the demon by a few," he rolled his eyes.

Rin frowned a little. "I know that."

"I don't think you know the gravity of it," he stared at her. She shrugged, walking again.

"It's just something I've come to terms with, Lord Inuyasha. There's not much I can do about his status or mine."

"You could always find a human boyfriend, ya know," he suggested.

Rin rolled her eyes. "I think I'll pass."

"Oh come on," Inuyasha walked around a few roots, "there's plenty of guys here that you like. That farmer with the face scar? He's badass!"

"He's engaged, Lord Inuyasha."

"W-well there's also that one widower who—"

"He's pretty old," Rin crinkled her nose.

"Sesshomaru's old too," he shot back.

"Not in appearance!"

Inuyasha chuckled lightly as the walked past a few remote huts, entering the village. "You know, a few guys that went off to fight in the North are looking for a wife. Pretty sure they'll come running to you."

"Eh," Rin shrugged, "I'll just say no. Lord Sesshomaru is the only one in my heart."

Inuyasha sighed. "Kinda stubborn, kid."

Rin took it in stride as they approached her home, finding the kids still sleeping. Inuyasha gathered his two children in his arms, quietly thanking Rin again before heading outside.

"Oi, before I go, you might have a visitor tonight," he crinkled his nose. Rin silently clapped, pointing back to the inside of her home.

"Guess I have to start cleaning now!"

Inuyasha smirked.


—- — —

The visitor was no other than Kohaku.

He had actually arrived at the village in the morning, preferring to spend time with his sister and kin.

It took Rin all her might not to jump into his arms like she was used to, and instead clung unto him as he soothed her trembling form.

"Kami, I can't believe you're doing better," Rin wept happily. Kohaku nodded, loosening his grip a bit.

"It's thanks to Lord Sesshomaru for letting me rest at home this time. I can't combat just yet, but," he laughed a bit, "I'm up for some traveling."

Rin rolled her eyes, retrieving some warm tea for him once he let her go. "So tell me," she said handling the cup over, "about how the recovery has been."

"Eh, not too shabby. My beloved has been taking care of me very patiently and I was able to explore the Southern lands Lord Sesshomaru gained."

"Are they impressive?" Rin asked, settling into a mat after he sat down.

Kohaku nodded eagerly. "Quite the beauty. He says he doesn't see anything he likes in them, but there's mountains and plains and minerals. My beloved always claimed there was so much to see in the South other than her," they laughed, "but I guess I didn't believe her until I saw it myself."

"But your health? Lord Sesshomaru said you were still too weak to resume patrol."

Kohaku laughed awkwardly. "Hehe, yeah, well, you see," Rin scooted closely, "it's less to do with doing the perimeter checks and more to do with not wanting to stray off too far."

Rin's brow knitted. "But you're here. In the West, where it's pretty far from your home."

"I know, I know. But I came with a purpose," he said, reaching into the folds of his kosode. He pulled out a scroll and handed it to her. "Open it," he demanded.

Rin did as told, reading heading out loud. "'You are cordially invited to celebrate the union of Kohaku, the world-renowned demon slayer, and Takako, youngest daughter of the Yoshida clan on the 15th of February, midday.'", her eyes widened and she gasped, looking up to catch Kohaku's giddy self. "You don't want to leave cause you're getting married!?" she exclaimed.

"Hehe, hell yeah I am," he winked.

Rin laughed, clutching the scroll to her chest. "Oh dearest friend, how glad I am for you! The only problem I see is the date is approaching quickly and you're still not 100%!"

Kohaku sipped his tea a bit. "That's why Lord Sesshomaru hasn't made me do anything crazy lately. Usually, he wouldn't care if I was completely fucked up, but now he's letting me rest a bunch. I think it's because he's a wanderer at heart."

"Hmm," Rin smiled, "perhaps so. So tell me, how did you propose?"

"Well," he grinned, "Takako has been changing my bandages every so often when in fact, I don't need to get bandaged anymore. I started assuming it was because she wanted to run her hands all over me," he chuckled.

Rin snorted, rolling her eyes. "You're not that impressive, Kohaku."

"Hmph! Maybe not to you, but to others I am! But back to my story. Once my assumption began, I started playing sick so she faithfully remained at my side. Lord Yoshida was totally okay with it and I used it to my advantage one day to ask for Takako to come one night. She was so worried that she kept pressing her hands on my face and started undoing the bandages on my abdomen that night. She feared I might have caught an infection."

Rin rolled her eyes again. "Why do I have a feeling you did something you shouldn't have?"

"Hey, hey now," Kohaku chugged the last of his tea, "none of that 'till marriage, okay kid? Anyways, I said some sappy stuff to her, kinda like, 'I wish to have these hands on me forever' and 'what I would give to take a look at you the way you're looking at me.' I didn't expect a response, just some things I wanted to say since damn, I love her. My beloved laughed it off, but the following night, she surprised me by kissing me. God, that's when I knew I needed to marry her."

"Just by a kiss? You knew?" She thought of all the sweet kisses she's been enjoying for the past couple months, wishing one would indicate something that monumental.

"Yeah. We're getting married in a month because I don't know how long I'll live. I'm trying to grow old with her," Kohaku laughed again.

Grow together, huh.

"Must be nice, dear friend," Rin smiled bitterly.


— — —

Since there were many rooms in her home, Rin arranged one for Kohaku to rest in. He was very content, almost immediately falling asleep after Rin made him do strength exercises for his legs and arms.

While clearing the table, she noticed a small note next to the formal invitation. Rin picked it up with one hand, juggling cups and plates in the other.

An evening for you and I.

Rin looked up, scanning her eyes around the main room. Is he here? She quietly placed the dirty utensils in a water basin, peeking out her window.

Nothing out there. The beauty walked into her room, finding Sesshomaru casually sitting against a wall near the candles.

"My lord," Rin let out a gleeful sigh, "what's the meaning of the note this time? There is no present."

"Is my presence not enough, Rin?" he asked, though not condescendingly.

Rin pursed her lips, walking to kneel beside him. "I didn't think you'd come tonight as well."

"And yet, I'm here," he said. The dim lighting made him look even more beautiful, more unhuman as it reflected his silver mane and golden stare.

She wanted to lean in and kiss him, but didn't want to break the spell he had on her. "So what's the evening referring to then? Come on, don't shy from me, my lord."

Sesshomaru snorted. "You'll know when it comes, Rin."

"Hmm, so you really aren't telling me, eh?" she crossed her arms, "I guess we'll just have to visit Lady Asa soon so I can place an order for my outfit."

"Tomorrow."

Rin raised her brows. "Wow. So the evening is approaching soon, huh?"

He shrugged, turning gaze outside. "Something like that. Rest."

It took everything in her not to keep pressing on the matter, and she stood up, quickly went and changed in her dressing room, only to return to her room and continue to find the dog demon there. Rin again walked towards him, kneeling in his presence.

"Will you be spending the night here, my lord?"

"Yes. I'll sleep in this room with you, else Kohaku gains a heart attack when he awakens."

Rin giggled a bit, watching Sesshomaru stand and hold out his hands to her to place her on her feet. He tilted his head down to hers, taking in her scent. Rin shivered slightly.

"Sleep well, my Rin," he whispered, placing a kiss on her cheek. She nearly melted, but nodded, making her way to her futon and laying down.


— —- —

Morning arrived and Rin prepared breakfast for herself, Kaede and Kohaku while Sesshomaru sat at the head of the table, not participating in much conversation.

Kaede had taken a look at the demon slayer as soon as he had awakened, pleased with his recovery and encouraging him to continue to exercise his arms and legs. Kohaku only let out a boyish laugh, telling her about how Rin tortured him before he knocked out the night before.

Neither Rin nor Sesshomaru seemed impressed.

"I assume you three have plans for today?" Kaede asked.

Rin sipped her broth happily. "Yes, my lady. We're off to see the seamstress, Lady Asa."

Kohaku shot a glance at Sesshomaru. "Am I tagging along too, my lord?"

"Yes," Sesshomaru responded dryly. Rin leaned over to refill his cup.

"It's always so much fun visiting Lady Asa. She wonderful and very hospitable. Since I'll be close to the market, would you like me to bring you something, my lady?"

Kaede pondered a bit. "Perhaps a new hakama would be nice," she answered shyly.

"Consider it done," the beauty winked. Kaede smiled lovingly at her.

Sesshomaru cleared his throat some, earning Rin's undivided attention. "We should head out now. The sooner you get your requests in, the faster Asa can complete them."

She nodded, standing up at the same time Kohaku did and cleared their dishes from the table. Kohaku hung around the old priestess, still spilling details of his beloved and their upcoming marriage. It warmed Rin's heart to hear the two so happy and at peace, after all the turmoil their lives had been at one point.

Rin causally made her way to Sesshomaru, waved Kaede goodbye, and headed out where she found Kirara ready for the trip as well.

"You'd think Kohaku is as healthy as he laughs, but can't stand an hour in the winter winds of the South," Sesshomaru muttered.

"He's human, my lord. Weak, as you say," Rin spoke as she nuzzled Kirara's mane.

Sesshomaru looked a bit annoyed, eyeing Kohaku when he finally exited Rin's home. "Shall we, Lord Sesshomaru?" he questioned.

The dog demon let his actions respond for himself as he snatched the beauty into his arms and jumped into the skies.


— — —

"Oh Kohaku! I can't believe you're getting married!" Asa clapped happily.

There was a time Rin asked herself if Kohaku knew Asa because knowing her son doesn't mean he knows her, but alas, as soon as they landed and Asa finished hugging Rin, she basically snuggled into his arms joyfully, asking him why he hadn't visited in so long and scolding him for making the Northern trip. Kohaku had only shrugged it off playfully, instead telling her about his upcoming marriage.

And that's when Asa lost it.

She pulled him with all her strength onto the platform in her home, immediately whipping out her measuring tape from thin air, insisting on making his wedding attire. Fabrics of black and dark blue were pulled out haphazardly, already being cut while the rest of her audience stared in quiet adoration.

"You know, I've been so busy lately with work, but whenever a close comrade of mine is celebrating something so grande, I tend to push all my work to the side for them!"

"Oh? What type of garments have you been working on, Lady Asa?" Rin chirped.

"Just a couple of kimonos for the upcoming gathering. Many demons have visited my home with great expectations," she replied, undoing Kohaku's kosode, "so they've kept me pretty busy. It's a shame you haven't visited lately for our cooking lessons. You still have much to learn," she said arching a brow.

"Oh," Rin said absentmindedly, "yeah, cooking lessons—hey my lady, tell me more about that gathering event."

"Well, every year demons from all over our great island meet up and have a—spread your arms more, child—feast. It's highly politicized and critical to attend. Oh! Beautiful," Asa flashed her pearly white teeth at Rin, "could you come here to the platform as well? I'd love to prepare a few outfits for you."

Rin mentally jumped up and down while walking toward Asa and Kohaku, the latter already re-robing himself.

"Any colors in mind, my sweet Rin?" the petite demon cooed.

"Red," Sesshomaru responded from afar.

"I wasn't talking to you," Asa barked.

Rin scratched her head a bit. "Well, uh, I wouldn't mind red, you know…"

Asa sighed in contempt as she pulled out her tape.

Already an expert in everything Rin, the dog demon only needed to recheck a few areas before she dismissed her, making her pick out from the arrangement of reds she had in store. Rin quickly glanced up at Sesshomaru, picking a color that exactly matched the design on his kosode, earning an approving nod from Asa.

"I will make you the most precious ruby of the night," she promised. Rin bowed in appreciation, adding she also needed a hakama, and headed back to her seat next to her lord, who looked like he smelled something foul.

"Is everything alright, Lord Sesshomaru?" Kohaku asked worriedly.

Instead of responding, the dog demon snapped his head in direction of the petite one walking around. "Asa," he said sternly, "there were snakes in this hut."

Is that a question or statement?

"Yes," Asa replied without turning to him, "there were."

"And you invite them so freely into your home?"

Rin's nervous eyes darted to Kohaku's. That tone doesn't sound pleasant at all.

"Business is business."

"It's the same low-lifes that plagued the villagers when you were younger, isn't it, Asa?"

Oh, milord must be referring to the demon clients Lady Asa had that caused her original home to be burned down, Rin frowned.

She looked at her, her petite frame overwhelmed with loads of fabric in her indigo-striped hands. Asa settled them down gently and ran a hand through her bob cut hair, deciding to start off with a minty green one.

"Asa, you—"

"Don't remind me, Lord Sesshomaru," she spat, causing both humans to flinch. They've never heard her angry. Ever. "I know what I'm doing. Business is business. I work and enjoy it. Value it. Do not lay a hand on them," Asa snarled. Her eyes held a light red to them and she turned back to the fabric in her hands.

Rin slowly looked up to peek Sesshomaru's face, finding him pooling with bitterness.

While the awkward silence lingered, Kohaku hesitantly coughed, eyeing the teapot in front of Rin, and she eagerly poured him a drink.

"Kami knows green tea calms the man," he chuckled nervously, Rin joining him just as awkwardly. "Since Lady Asa said the gathering was all political, I imagine they serve tea by the barrels."

"I assume demons would prefer to drink sake over tea any day though," Rin said, refilling her cup, "since their strong bodies can handle it."

"Oh! And imagine the food. Crab cakes, rice with mushrooms—say, Lady Asa, what's your favorite dish at the gathering?" Kohaku boldly asked.

She sighed heavily but gave him a genuine smile. "There's a dessert table with these little cold spheres that melt in your mouth. It's a wonderful experience I wish I could take home, but the spheres also melt in your hands."

Cinnamon eyes widened. "Like snow, my lady?"

"Yes," Asa replied, working her spindle, "but colorful and delicious."

"Have you ever tasted it too, Lord Sesshomaru?" the curious Rin asked.

As soon as he frowned, Rin knew the answer. He doesn't eat human food. Shit sucks, I only digest tea, specifically the one you pour—

"I haven't been to those immoral and foolish events in years."

Oh. Well…

"And yet, I'm still making you a new kosode specifically for it," Asa added.

"Don't waste your time," he scoffed.

"Um, what else happens at the gatherings?" Kohaku asked.

The petite demon stood, smoothing her kimono before handing Rin a red hakama. "We dine and socialize the entire evening, drink and dance. Laugh. Fight," she giggled, releasing the tension in the room.

"It sounds so interesting! And these occur every year? Lord Sesshomaru has never mentioned them before," Rin tilted her head towards him.

Sesshomaru closed his eyes, hand to temple. "There's no need for a demon such as myself to indulge in such things."

"Oh really now," Rin nudged, "my lord, I think it would be wonderful for you to start going again! Say, were they so bad when you last visited?"

"And so many years have passed, Lord Sesshomaru," Asa added, "I invite you yearly and you know we miss the head of the party."

He remained unmoved, visibly annoyed with them.

Kohaku seemed eager to find out more about the gatherings. He turned to Asa and asked, "When was the last time Lord Sesshomaru attended?"

Asa shifted her weight uncomfortably, interlocking her hands. "When his father was still alive."

Kohaku let out a loud whistle. Rin raised her brows, surprised. Damn, it's been that long huh.

"So you see, it's been eons since then, and I ask every single year for his company," Asa dramatically sighed.

"That's all you've been talking about lately. Nothing else interests you," Sesshomaru said annoyed.

Ah ha! So this is why he was so moody weeks ago!

"I repeat it with good intentions, Lord Sesshomaru," Asa smiled, "it'll be good for you to see the powerful faces of those who roam freely after Naraku's death. Even those that I once thought had died have now reappeared."

"Whoa," Kohaku gasped, "that's…worrisome." He turned to Sesshomaru, the latter already looking back at him. "Lord Sesshomaru, think of all the planning we could do if we know exactly where certain demons reside. It would help Dan and me greatly in doing the perimeter—"

"No."

Rin shook her head at him. "Lord Sesshomaru, you could gain so much! I ask you to go for all of us!"

His golden glare bore malevolently into hers.

"Oh dearest Rin, if you'd like to come, I'll bring you with! You can finally wear that lavender kimono I've been working on!" Asa squealed. Rin clapped happily, nodding her head rapidly.

"Oh yes, yes! I'll love to—"

"You will not be going with her, Rin," Sesshomaru warned. The two women stopped mid-celebration.

"Then accompany me, my lord," Rin said carefully. She could see Kohaku tensing up, sending her a "are you out of your fucking mind" look.

"I do not follow human orders. If anyone is accompanying anyone, it will be you to me. I will not be your plus one at the gathering. It'll be you coming with me," he huffed, appearing satisfied afterward.

Asa and Rin exchanged a funny look while Kohaku slowly grinned. It was as if the three were sharing the same thought.

I just got Lord Sesshomaru to go to the gathering.

"Well, that settles it then," Asa nodded, "I'll make you a new obi to make Rin's lavender kimono so the two of you can match."

Sesshomaru shot her another annoyed look. "When was my attendance decided?"

"When you said it yourself," Rin declared, falling into joyful laughter.


— — —

The weeks passed quickly.

During this time, for some strange reason, Kaede began asking Rin to stop doing chores around the village, claiming the extra hands weren't as needed. She pouted and complained about being idle in the beginning, practically begging the priestess for work, but each time, she got rejected.

Of course, after a while, Rin wondered if it was even such a bad thing because as soon as Sesshomaru would stop by, they would take long walks in the forest or go to Asa's.

At the market one day, Rin was scanning the booths, trying to pick out a gift for Kohaku and his beloved. She walked among the gold jewelry, all types of fabrics, and household items, ending up in a bundle of disappointment.

Sesshomaru, who usually stood back while she shopped, appeared at her side (scaring the vendor) and suggested her to pick something simple since that was what Kohaku was.

Rin shook her head. "I know exactly what I want to gift, I just can't find it," she huffed, looking about.

"Tell me," he demanded.

"They're herbs. But probably won't be available because of the season," Rin sighed bitterly.

Sesshomaru tilted his head some and started walking almost all the way down the line of vendors. Rin followed closely behind.

Did he find them? Rin pondered, eyeing out the vendors and clients alike. They stop in front of a female vendor who looked both nervous and enamored by Sesshomaru's presence.

"C-Can I help you find s-s-something, great demon l-lord?" she stuttered.

Rin stepped forward, a pleasant smile on her face. "Good afternoon, my good woman. I was wondering if you sold herbs."

She nodded, carefully pulling up a few bottles into view. Rin picked up a few bottles, examining the herbs inside until she came across the ones she was looking. The beauty handed over a few gold coins to the now-confused woman, thanking her as they walked away from the booth.

"Herbs for the couple?" Sesshomaru questioned as he helped her unto Ah-Un.

"Yes," Rin nodded eagerly, "I've always made it a habit outta gifting them to all the new married couples. Just something we humans enjoy," Rin smiled.

"For?"

Rin blushed, averting his gaze. "Fertility. Y-You know, s-since Kohaku says he wants to have a thousand kids like Master Miroku," she giggled, still looking down.

"Hmm," Sesshomaru began, gently nuzzling his face into her mane, "you are very considerate. He is blessed to have you in his life."

And I to have you.


— — —

Kohaku's wedding was beyond glorious. Rin had been on the verge of tears the entire ceremony, raining rice on the couple when they walked past them, and then jumping in line quickly once the reception was set up.

Sesshomaru appeared to be in a better mood than usual, even extending greetings after Inuyasha coughed 'hello.' There were many who stared at him when walked by, but most eyes were kept on Rin.

Asa had not lied when she said she'd make her a jewel. Oh no. The red kimono bore a beautiful lake of flames pooling from the skirt and into little smaller flicks at the top that were actual rubies. Her golden obi had threads of gold silk all around and her hair was held up by a couple of kanzashi Rin had from years ago.

She was so well put together that she knew she couldn't get mad at anyone for gawking too long.

"The tea is quite good, milord, would you like me to fetch you some?" she asked, taking a step in line. There were two more people ahead of them, so she could probably run back in time.

The dog demon shook his head and eyed the line shortening. "We're next."

Rin squealed, clutching his arm. "He's going to die when he sees his present," she laughed.

"Die?" Sesshomaru asked concerned, gesturing her to walk when the last person finally left.

"Lord Sesshomaru, Rin," Kohaku greeted, smiling from ear to ear, "allow me to formally introduce my beloved, my wife, Takako."

Rin bowed slightly in her presence. He picked good, she thought, taking in the soft features of her pretty face against the white-hooded veil.

"Princess Rin, what an absolute honor to finally meet the Lady of the West," Takako bowed as well.

Rin grinned shyly, turning toward Sesshomaru who already pulled out the bottle of herbs from his folds. She took it and presented it to the couple. "We pray to the gods you two become as fruitful as rabbits are come spring," she giggled, earning blushes from the couple.

"Thank you both so much, we'll," Kohaku winked, "empty this bad boy in no time." The two women groaned and he let out his boyish laugh, running his hand through his free hair. "Have you two been enjoying yourselves?"

Rin glanced up at Sesshomaru who still looked quite content. "Very much so! The food is delicious and the soft music is lovely."

"The atmosphere is crisp," Sesshomaru added, earning a happy nod from Kohaku.

"As it should be for a wedding. Please, my lord, let me know if I can assist with anything you need," he said. Sesshomaru only shook his head as he lightly placed his hand on Rin's back.

"Enjoy your month off, Kohaku."

The demon slayer bowed lowly at his words as the unmarried couple walked away, back into the crowd.

"Isn't Takako lovely?" Rin peeped.

"Didn't notice," Sesshomaru replied dryly.

Oh.

"Because among all these people, you look perfect tonight. An absolute rose, a ruby," he whispered.

Rin blushed, and quickly acting, she looked around before gently pulling him to the row of huts in the way back, immediately being devoured by hungry lips.

Kami, please grant me the wish of getting married to my lord, Rin thought as he pulled her higher into his arms, his lips departing for a second to look at her before going back in for me.


- — —

Several days after Kohaku's wedding, Rin was sewing in the main room when she heard a few horses outside her home.

Odd, who would visit me? She walked up to the door, sliding it slightly to catch a glimpse of a young, handsome man and his decked-out entourage. Horses were piled with what appeared to be gifts, and the stranger himself was clothed in robes Rin used to see whenever suitors came by.

A lord?

The man unmounted his horse and a golden pin attached to his elaborate neck caught the maiden's eye.

Oh no, not just a lord. Perhaps this could be the Emperor himself.

She closed the door quietly, huffing and puffing, rolling her eyes.

Damnit kami, I meant Lord Sesshomaru, not lord of these lands.


.oOo.

AN: Hope the length makes up for the wait! Lots that went down, but it all ties in together. And how happy are we for Kohaku? Ah, it's a feel-good moment for me.

Next chapter will include big questions being brought up! Rejection or acceptance? Hmm.