Rin froze with instant surprise.

"Y-you're," she stammered. The demoness responded to these stutters with an arched brow, at which Rin paused for a moment. "... Lady mother." And she shut up again.

"Ho? What would a human know about me?" Inukimi wondered. "I have caused no scandals. I think I shall hear the rumors later, from start to finish." Then striding on velvet feet, making no sound as she walked. She stood before Rin, looking down her fine nose, as she was a head taller. "The scent has gone stale," she said, "but I am certain of it—I can smell Sesshomaru on you."