Author's Notes:
Woohoo! I got this updated for you in 3 weeks! I'm really to stick to a consistent schedule for you guys considering that this story could be up to 40 chapters 😳
I am advising an M warning for this chapter, there is mention of violence and death as well as steamy times ahead for our couple. This chapter also comes in at over 8,100 words so definitely be comfortable when you start reading. I'm thinking these chapters are going to get longer as I move the story forward. I have outlined the next several chapters to keep myself on pace with where this story is going.
Remember anything in italics is a flashback. Anything in italics and bolded is Rin and Sesshomaru talking through their mental link.
Onto the story!
Chapter 15
The Ragged Edge
Rin sat waiting for her guests.
Today she had invited Inuyasha, Kagome, and Shippo for lunch. Sesshomaru was currently with his father overseeing practice drills for part of their army.
It had been twelve weeks now since the Makami had moved to the western lands. She was now completely healed from her traumatic journey; her body had actually filled out more since coming here. She felt her figure become fuller somehow. She was quite embarrassed at first and tried hiding her body from Maiko, but Maiko was only kind.
…..
….
"There is nothing to be ashamed about, princess, you look amazing. I dare say your husband has noticed your physical… attributes as well." Maiko said with a wink.
Rin felt herself blush and turned away in the large tub, covering her large breasts.
She had noticed that Sesshomaru had been looking upon her differently, his gaze deep, and sometimes when she caught him off guard, she could see…..hunger in his eyes. He would turn away and simply push warmth into the link, not saying a word.
As Rin smoothed out her kimono, a small smile graced her face. Sesshomaru…her husband. True to his word, he had not made any attempts to push their intimacies forward without her consent. The young princess's face heated up at their nightly encounters. His touches so light upon her body, his lips pressing against her as if she was made of porcelain.
…..
….
Rin softly panted as Sesshomaru pressed his large frame closer to her trembling body. He had been massaging her leg for her when Rin finally had enough of his soft rubbing and grabbed him by his collar pulling him close. Her small mouth pressed against his warm lips. The next thing she knew, Sesshomaru had parted her thighs and had one arm around her waist and a hand cradling her head back. He gently nipped at her bottom lip before pushing his tongue into her mouth.
Rin pushed herself forward in her chair, wrapping her arms around her husband's neck, moaning. Their kisses were slow and languid, neither in a rush to push the other into unknown territory. Rin finally pulled away needing to breathe. Gathering herself, Rin cupped Sesshomaru's face, pressing their foreheads together.
When Rin opened her eyes to peer at her husband, she saw a flash of red, but it faded into amber.
"Are you ok?" Rin asked quietly.
"Hm." Sesshomaru answered, keeping his face blank.
"Your scent is pleasing to this Sesshomaru." Sesshomaru answered, pulling away and standing.
Rin straightened out her yukata.
'Sesshomaru…..I know that as Inu you have a strong sense of smell….can you smell when I'm…..aroused?' Rin pushed into their link.
It was with her daily lessons with Toga when she discovered that Inu can smell anything and everything. Even when their mates were fertile and…..aroused.
All Rin felt was warmth and the low hum.
'Yes….as I said your scent is pleasing to this Sesshomaru.'
'Are you…..still ok with us and our intimacies?'
Sesshomaru appeared at her side in an instant, grasping her hand, "Of course, my mate. I told you I would wait, and I meant it."
….
…..
Rin was snapped from her thoughts when she heard a knock at her door.
Maiko answered and soon Inuyasha, Kagome, and Shippo appeared.
Rin stood, running to hug Kagome and Shippo. She nodded at Inuyasha and Inuyasha simply stuffed his arms into his sleeves muttering "Keh."
Rin finally felt at peace with Inuyasha after she tried apologizing to her new brother a few weeks back.
…
….
Sesshomaru stood facing Rin as she spoke.
"Please Sesshomaru, I need to do this. It's the only way I'll feel better." Rin said with her hands clasped in front of her.
"Rin, as I've told you, it's not necessary. Inuyasha bears no ill will. He has moved on from the incident." Sesshomaru said, coming forward to cup her face.
"I know but Sesshomaru….I need to. You all may have moved past this, but I haven't. I know it wasn't me in control but I'm still responsible for hurting your brother. Please Sesshomaru…"
Sesshomaru leaned forward, pulling his little mate close, and gently sighed, "You're to kind, my mate…..Stay. I'll be back." Sesshomaru then kissed her forehead and left the room.
Rin nervously paced while waiting for her husband to return, chewing on her bottom lip. Everyone had told her Inuyasha was fine, but Rin couldn't let this go, not until she apologized.
It had been two weeks now since she started her training with Kimi, but she had made no progress so far. She couldn't form her barrier or bring forth the light like she did the day she attacked Inuyasha. It was during one of her training sessions when Kimi voiced what the possible problem was.
…
"Rin…I know you're scared, but I think you're blocking your own abilities," Kimi gently said.
Rin turned away quickly looking out the shoji door leading to their private garden.
"What are you scared of my dear?" Kimi quietly said, standing next to her.
Rin knew…..she was terrified of it.
Keeping her eyes downcast, the young princess said so softly that Inu demoness had to strain to hear, "I could kill you all Mother…..look at what I did to Inuyasha because I was scared. You're the only family I have now. I can'tlose any of you."
Rin heard Kimi take a deep breath and from the bottom of her vision, she saw Kimi's feet appear. She felt her chin being lifted and she looked into a pair of amber-colored eyes.
Kimi softly smiled and pulled her into a tight embrace, "Princess…..Makami….Rin….You're all the same person with such a kind heart…you need to let go of this fear. You need to forgive yourself. We're your family now and we will love and protect you with our lives."
Rin sniffled, holding tight to her new mother.
"Have you apologized to Inuyasha for what happened?" Kimi whispered.
"No…..I haven't had the courage to face him."
Kimi pulled away from Rin, gently wiping the fallen tears, "Then start there young one. I believe your fear is hindering you in moving forward. Speak to Inuyasha, see for yourself that he is fine."
…
Rin turned when the door opened. She looked up to see her husband walk in followed by Inuyasha.
"Princess, it's good to see you," Inuyasha said with his head tilted to the side, one of his puppy dog ears twitched.
"Inuyasha, thank you for coming. Please sit." Rin waved her hand towards the small table nearby.
Soon the Makami, hanyo and youkai were all seated. Sesshomaru as usual seating behind Rin.
Rin took a few shaky breaths, trying to calm her thumping heart. She looked at Inuyasha who had a faint smile on his face. She looked down at her knees, squeezing her eyes shut. She felt like she couldn't breathe.
'I can't do this….I can't do this…..'
' Rin….calm yourself….you can do this.' Sesshomaru pressed into their link. Rin was then comforted by warmth.
In her time of need, her mate was there for her. Surrounded by only warmth and love, Rin felt peace overtake her being and mind. Blinking back the tears, ' Thank you, my husband.'
'Hm.'
Centering herself on her husband's link, Rin finally looked up into Inuyasha's eyes.
Inuyasha….
He was gruff but Rin could tell he had a kind heart. Kagome only glowed when she spoke of her husband and Shippo….taking in an orphan fit. Who else would do such a thing?
Clearing her throat, Rin looked into the eyes of her brother and bowed, "My lord Inuyasha. I wish to deeply apologize for my behavior on the day when I arrived. My actions were uncalled for when all you did was try to help me. I can only hope you can forgive me."
Rin stayed bowed waiting until she heard Inuyasha cough and speak, "Hey…uh you don't need to bow to me. Get up."
Rin lifted herself from her bow positioned to see Inuyasha looking embarrassed.
'Why would he be embarrassed? I'm the one who hurt him.'
"Look, princess….I know it was an accident. I know you weren't well and in your right mind."
"Be that as it may, it was still uncalled for-" Rin started to say but was cut off.
"Hey!" Rin gasped at Inuyasha's proclamation. Behind her, she heard Sesshomaru growl.
Inuyasha cleared his throat, stuffing his arms into his sleeve, "Sorry…I just…..Look it's not the first time I've been thrown across the room and I doubt it will be the last. I know what you did and I forgave ya. So quit beating yourself up over it. I've moved on. Besides, I barely felt it. You're a tiny thing, you think you have the power to hurt someone like me? I'm built like my old man, solid. Nothing tearing me down." Inuyasha said with a smirk.
"Solid yet I was able to put my hand through your stomach little brother." Sesshomaru's silky voice said in the dead air after Inuyasha's little speech.
Rin gasped, looking between both brothers.
Inuyasha jumped up, barking out, "Oh yeah Sesshomaru? I still managed to cut your arm off with your weak ass attack!"
Both brothers glared at each other, the tension raising but was suddenly broken by Rin's laughter. Amber eyes fell onto the laughing princess, who was clutching her stomach.
Between her fits of laughter, all the brothers could make out was, "…Arm….stomach…..how…"
Inuyasha relaxed at seeing the princess laughing and sat back down. Finally calming herself down and wiping the tears from her eyes, Rin looked between her husband and Inuyasha.
"If you don't mind, I would like to hear both stories please." Rin politely asked.
"Fine, I'll tell ya. Sesshomaru never tells right. So, what happened was…." Inuyasha's voice faded out as Rin looked towards her husband.
'Thank you.'
'I did nothing.'Sesshomaru replied.
Rin pushed warmth into the ink and nodded, turning back to Inuyasha to hear the story.
Rin knew her husband was trying to break the tension and diverted the attention from herself to Inuyasha and provoked the little bout of words that just happened.
As Rin sat listening to Inuyasha, she couldn't help but realize that her feelings for her husband were growing each day. She still couldn't say the words but one day…..
It was only a matter of time…
…..
…..
"No Sesshomaru today?" Kagome asked as everyone sat down to eat.
"No, he's with lord Toga going over some practice drills today. Although he did comment that he would join us for dinner tonight." Rin answered.
"Oh, Rin I've heard the news that Naraku and a horde of demons have left your homeland! You must be very happy to know that your people are safe." Kagome said with a genuine smile. Inuyasha and young Shippo both nodded in agreement.
It was just earlier in the morning when she had awoken and Sesshomaru and Toga had delivered the good news.
…
…..
Rin had just finished brushing her hair when Sesshomaru pushed into their link. Maiko was busy going through her wardrobe with the seamstress. With the colder months approaching, Kimi and Izayoi told Rin to expect a visit from the seamstress.
'Rin, I am on my way with my father.'
Rin pushed warmth into their link as a signal that she was ready whenever they were. Over the past few days, Sesshomaru had been teaching Rin how to push her emotions through their link. If she was happy, content, or even if she wanted to signal she was hungry, she now knew how to distinguish each emotion as a mental wave to her husband.
Rin stood by waiting as the shoji door slid open and both youkai walked in.
Toga bowed, "Princess, I bring excellent news about your homeland."
Rin's eyebrows drew down in confusion. In all her haste of traveling to the western lands, becoming ill, and then being incapacitate for almost a month, she realized her family and homeland barely crossed her mind. She hoped her brothers were doing well without her and keeping up in their studies.
"What news do you bring my lord?"
Toga looked between Rin and Sesshomaru and with a broad smile, "It would appear that Naraku has left your lands. My army will be staying for a few additional months to ensure that your people are on the path to recovery."
Rin's face lit up in happiness, "He's left?!"
Maiko gasped from her position, one of Rin's kimonos falling from her fingers.
Sesshomaru stepped forward brushing his knuckles against her smiling face, "Yes, your family and people are safe now."
A strangled sob escaped the young princess's lips and she fell to her knees. Sesshomaru was quickly by her side, pulling her towards his chest.
"My people…now they have a chance to heal." Rin softly cried, clinging to Sesshomaru.
"Yes, King Ishida and his people are already seeing new homes being built. My men are helping to reinforce the borders on your lands as well. Our plan worked as we thought." Toga gently said, kneeling in front of the young Makami.
Sniffling, Rin asked, "Where is Naraku now?"
Sesshomaru rubbed Rin's back, "Unfortunately we do not know where he went."
"If he's left then isn't that good? We don't have to worry about him, right?" Rin asked, looking between both youkai.
"Not necessarily. It's good he's left but where did he go? We know he has a castle somewhere, but we've only heard whispers of where it is and that it's being guarded by some sort of sacred barrier. For Naraku to just leave without a fight is a bit….discerning to us."
Rin looked at Sesshomaru, 'Naraku wouldn't just leave quietly, would he?'
'No.'
"Princess, you are safe with us. Naraku has no way to ever get into our castle and now your family is safe. I, along with the other rulers of the lands, will continue looking for him."
Rin nodded, hoping Naraku would finally be dealt with once and all.
…
….
The door opened again when another knock was heard. Maiko answered to find the head chef along with two other servants with several carts of food. The next few minutes went by in a fury as food and plates were laid for everyone. The head chef spoke explaining what all the dishes were.
Rin sat in happiness seeing all the food. Now that it had been several months since her move, her appetite was completely back to normal. Rin was a bit concerned about how much hungrier she was now. She had voiced her concern to Kaede on one of her checkups. The old miko smiled and merely said, "Ye body is still adjusting to its surroundings and ye changing body, tis normal."
Once everyone's plate was full, they all looked towards each other and happily said, "Itadakimasu!"
The next hour went by joyfully for the young princess happily conversing with her family.
~oOo~
Rin followed behind Sesshomaru as he led the way to the training grounds, the princess was very excited today. Rin was finally going to spend time with the demon slayers. After meeting them two weeks ago, she had been trying to request time with them, but Sesshomaru had advised her that due to the war, most of their time was filled helping villages who lacked demon slayers. Sango, Kohaku, and Miroku now went from village to village fighting and exorcising demons. Last night as Rin had prepared for bed, Sango had come to her chambers advising that they would be free the next day if she wished to see their skills and get to know them.
Sesshomaru slowed his steps and slid open a large shoji door. Sesshomaru ushered Rin inside first. The young princess gasped upon entering.
The training room was huge! There were five additional rooms to the right of the main training area. Across the walls were various weapons including katanas, staffs, small daggers, and masks. Rin looked to see Sango and Kohaku fighting each other.
Sango landed a solid blow to Kohaku's back to which he quickly recovered by rolling away and springing up, jumping over his sister. Their sparring went on for a few more minutes, finally coming to an end when Kohaku pointed a small dagger at his sister's throat and Sango with her katana mere inches from her brother's stomach.
Both siblings pulled away and then bowed to the princess, each catching their breaths.
"That was amazing! You both move so quickly!" Rin exclaimed.
"Many years of practice princess," Sango said smiling.
Sango gestured to a low table nearby and Rin sat across from the siblings. Sesshomaru sat a few feet back behind her as always. A servant appeared with a small tray of refreshments and tea. After short pleasantries were exchanged, and time for the siblings to catch their breaths, Rin asked, "May I ask how you both came to live at the castle?"
Sango sadly smiled, looking at Kohaku, the young man nodded.
"Naraku killed our family and left us for dead."
Rin pulled back in horror, her hands flying to her mouth.
"Oh my gods, I'm so sorry. I shouldn't have asked, please forgive me."
"Thank you, princess and it's quite alright. You did not know and it's understandable to ask considering the palace consists only of Inu." Sango said.
The woman dressed in her demon slayer outfit shifted and began their tale, "It was a few years ago, a village called for a demon slayers. They said they have very powerful demons that kept coming back each night, my father deemed only the best of us were needed for the job. Our father also figured it would be a good time for new demon slayers in training to witness firsthand battle. So, half of our village left to go on the mission. Once there we waited for the demon to appear. Come nightfall it finally appeared but something didn't seem right. We battled for half the night, but the demon never appeared to weaken."
Sango stopped then, pausing in her story. Rin watched the woman as she appeared to compose herself.
Feeling terrible for bringing up painful memories, Rin gently said, "I'm sorry, you do not have to go on if you do not wish for it. I understand."
"No, I want you to know," Sango answered.
"Sister, I can tell her," Kohaku said.
Kohaku then started speaking, "As Sango said, we were fighting half the night. We were all exhausted. We finally thought we had the demon pinned down when it charged at us. We realized then this wasn't an ordinary demon. It was already dead. No matter how many times we struck it down, it got back up."
"But why?" Rin asked in confusion.
"To make us weak, make us tired. We used up almost all our potions trying to take down the demon. Come sunrise, we had nothing left."
The room grew quiet then. Rin could feel the tension coming from the siblings.
'Sesshomaru?'
'This next part will not be easy to hear my mate…..prepare yourself.'
Sango spoke after visibly swallowing, "We were beyond exhausted when the sun rose. The puppet master of the demon knew and then….he started killing us."
Rin clenched her hands into her kimono, fighting back the urge to throw up.
"The demon struck us down one by one. Our father tried to get us out, but the demon pinned him down and made him watch as he murdered everyone he knew. Kohaku was stabbed through the stomach, and I was…."
Sango stopped, her eyes closing at the painful memory. Rin watched as Kohaku grabbed his sister's hand, giving her encouragement.
Sango cleared her throat and lifted her head in determination. With tears in her eyes, the demon slayer spoke, "The demon then used Kohaku's weapon on me, piercing me in the back. I fell on top of Kohaku and I thought this was it. I barely had the strength to look up when I heard my father screaming. The demon tore my father in half and then just dusted away. My father's body laid before me. There was nothing I could do."
When Sango had finished speaking, she felt herself being enveloped in a tight hug. Sango had spoken the last part with her eyes closed, reliving the memory and never heard the princess get up from her seat. Opening her eyes, she found herself staring at Sesshomaru who only tilted his head.
Rin then pulled back from their hug, "I'm so sorry Sango. I'm sorry Kohaku. I'm so sorry for the pain that horrible demon put you through."
Both siblings smiled at the princess bowing. Rin stayed seated and held onto Sango's hand, nodding at the demon slayer to continue.
With the princess's comforting presence next to her, Sango felt warmth fill her being. Feeling at peace after reliving the harrowing events of her past confused the demon slayer. Looking at the hand of the princess, Sango couldn't help but wonder if the warmth was coming from the young princess. Chalking it up to her imagination, Sango continued her story.
"Kohaku and I both laid there with the broken figure of our father before us and then we heard someone laughing. A figure appeared wearing a baboon pelt. I knew then that the puppet master was him. He had been controlling the dead demon. I asked how he could do this to us. That we had done nothing to him. That bastard just laughed as we lay dying. Then he answered my question. I'll never forget how smug he looked when he answered me. His eyes were nothing but cold." Sango said.
Usually, Sango felt nothing but pure rage at this part of the story but now….she felt the same feeling of warmth and peace. Sango squeezed the young princess's hand.
"Why did he do it?" Rin quietly asked.
"Because we were in his way. Our village was in his way on his next conquest. With all of us away, he knew our village would be defenseless, so he burned our village down trapping everyone inside. Everyone died, including the young children and the old."
Rin gasped.
"Naraku then had his minions bury all of us. Somehow Kohaku and I both lived. I managed to dig ourselves out."
"How did you find help?" Rin asked in astonishment.
"Miroku, " Sango said in a fond smile.
"You mean Toga's courier?"
"Yes, he has Buddhist powers. He was traveling nearby when he sensed the grief and sorrow. He was doing prayer rites when I dug myself out. We were fortunate that on that day a small patrol team happened to be with Miroku. They brought us back here. Kaede attended to our wounds. Kaede said I was strong and would be fine but Kohaku…."
Rin looked at Kohaku who only smiled. The young man now speaking, "I was younger, and my injuries were extensive. I was bedridden for a month, in and out of consciousness. It was because of Kaede and Izayoi that I sit before you now. They attended to me every day, never giving up."
"I helped as well," A new voice called out.
Everyone turned to see Miroku with a small fire demon cat sitting on his shoulder entering the training room. Rin stood and moved back to her seat to allow Miroku to sit by Sango. Instead of usually sitting in front of Sesshomaru, Rin sat right next to her husband, needing to feel his presence. Sesshomaru pushed warmth into their link, seeming to understand that she needed comfort.
"Brother did help as well," Kohaku added with a smile.
"Once we are both on our feet, Lord Toga comes to visit us. He offered us a place in the palace in exchange that our services were at his disposal whenever he needed us. If not, then he offered a few different options of where we could move to. At the time, I was only interested in avenging our fallen friends and father and asked Lord Toga if he knew who Naraku was. I told Lord Toga I would pledge all my services to him from now until the day if he would help me track down Naraku. To my surprise, Lord Toga agreed to my request. We have been here ever since."
Silence filled the room after the tale of the demon slayers came to an end. It was at the moment the small fire demon cat jumped from Miroku's shoulder to the floor and trotted over to Rin. The small cat purred and jumped in Rin's lap, looking at her.
Sango smiled, "That is Kirara. She has been a faithful companion to my family for years. On the day Naraku burned our village, she had been away. A week after I was better, I went back to the ruins of my village and found her. To know that at least one creature made it out alive from our village gave me some hope."
Rin smiled at the small creature in her lap and gently scratched her head.
"Thank you both for sharing. I know that I said I'm sorry, but I truly mean it. I knew Naraku was evil but to do what he did to you both and your entire village….it's despicable. I'm happy to hear that you find a home here with the Inu family."
"We as well princess," Sango answered.
The chatter soon turned light with Miroku's playfully joking.
"Princess, would you like to see Hiraikotsu?" Sango asked.
"Hiraikotsu?"
"Oh yes, my sister has been using Hiraikotsu for years!" Kohaku said with his eyes bright.
Sango then stood and grabbed a large weapon shaped like a boomerang, hoisting it up like nothing. Kohaku ran to the third training room and opened the shoji door to a large open field.
Everyone moved to the side to watch as Sango then flung the large weapon across the open field. Rin watched in amazement as Hiraikotsu glided through the air like nothing and was gracefully caught by Sango.
Sango then stepped forward, "Would you like to see it?"
Rin looked towards Sesshomaru, 'Go on.'
Rin ran forward and tested the weight of the large weapon, "Oh! It's heavy but you make it appear as if it weighs nothing!"
"As I said earlier princess, practice," Sango said with a chuckle.
"Do you have training in defending yourself, princess?" Kohaku asked.
"Oh no, King Ishida said it wasn't proper for a princess," Rin said, shrugging her shoulders. Rin continued studying Hiraikotsu.
"If you would like, when I'm here I can teach you some combat moves? I mean if it's ok with Lord Sesshomaru." Sango offered.
"Really? You wouldn't mind?" Rin asked in excitement.
Rin had always wanted to learn some self-defense. She was fascinated to watch her homeland's army practice. She even got Akashi to teach her some moves but once their father found out, he made sure Rin was always with her tutors. He also forbade any of his men to teach her anything related to fighting.
Rin turned to Sesshomaru with hope in her eyes.
"Is this something you would like?" Sesshomaru asked.
"You wouldn't mind?"
"No, I am your protector but, in the event, should something happen, it would be wise for you to know how to defend yourself. Although you must be able to keep to your schedule of training with mother and daily lessons with my father." Sesshomaru answered.
"Of course, my lord! I'll check with mother and Lord Toga to make sure it's ok!" Rin said beaming in happiness.
Rin turned back to Sango and hugged the demon slayer in happiness.
…
…..
As Rin waited for Sesshomaru to go to bed that evening, Rin realized how evil Naraku truly was. Sesshomaru soon joined her in their futon, holding his arms open for her. She scooted closer, laying her head on his chest, listening to his heart thump in his chest.
After a few moments of silence, Rin softly said, "Sesshomaru?"
"Hm?"
"Naraku needs to be stopped once and all."
"Yes, my mate. My father and I will not stop until he is dead and gone from this world."
"Good," Rin answered.
The princess fell into a deep sleep listening to the sound of her husband's heart, thankful her mate was strong and would not stop fighting for her.
~oOo~
A Few Days Later….
Rin sat waiting for her husband, reading from the book containing the image of her mother. Each night the young Makami would reread the entire page of who her mother was, burning the drawing of the Ame-No-Uzumi into her memory.
"I hope you're well Mother…." Rin quietly whispered.
Rin gently traced the outline of her mother's beautiful face, hoping that one day she would see her. Rin quickly shut the book when she heard the shoji door slide open. She looked at herself, smoothing out her sleeping yukata.
"It is late, you did not need to wait for me," Sesshomaru said, looking at her from the door.
"I do not mind, besides I wish to hear of your day," Rin said smiling.
Sesshomaru moved over to his side of their chambers, removing his outer robes, speaking of his day. Rin watched in attention as his broad back came into view. She took a deep breath calming herself.
Over the course of them sharing their room, Sesshomaru always granted her privacy whenever she changed, so she reciprocated. Lately through, she found herself peeking at his naked form. She had yet to see him completely nude, just his bare back. He would go into their private bathing chamber to change out of his hakama.
Watching his body move now….he was perfect. Not one single blemish or mark was upon his body. He back rippled as he moved his arms. When touching him during their kissing, Rin could tell he was built solid, the plains of his body nothing but hard muscle.
Rin was very caught off guard when Sesshomaru suddenly turned and faced her, his muscular chest coming into view. The young princess coughed and quickly looked away, brushing away imaginary dust from her sleeve.
"I'll return," Sesshomaru advised, moving into their private bathing chamber.
If he noticed, he didn't say anything. A moment later he reappeared dressed in his sleeping yukata and took his position next to her in their futon.
"Did you like what you saw?" Sesshomaru asked with an amused look on his face.
Rin blushed and ducked her head, "Maybe…."
"The hour is late, let us sleep," Sesshomaru said, going to lay down.
"Wait…"
Sesshomaru stopped, looking towards Rin.
'You can do this Rin, he's your husband.'
Closing her eyes, Rin let out a slow breath. Opening her eyes, she found her husband merely studying her.
"I know we've only been kissing…..I…uh….just bear with me." Rin quietly said, staring into Sesshomaru's eyes.
"Hm?" Sesshomaru asked, turning to fully face her now.
Feeling beyond embarrassed and shy, Rin sat up and hiked her sleeping yukata up to her thighs, carefully moving onto her knees and straddled Sesshomaru. With her face completely red, she lowered herself until her warm center pressed upon his clothed groin. She placed her small hands on his shoulders, gently squeezing.
"I remember from our bonding night…..me being like this on you…. It felt….good." Rin whispered.
Sesshomaru's arms stayed by his side, his body still under her. His stoic face remained in place.
Over the past few months, Rin had started to notice the little cues from her husband. He was not expressive as she was, but it was how he moved. One time, she had tripped over something in the hall, and he was by her side in an instant catching her. He didn't say anything at all, but she could see his emotion in his eyes and how he held her.
It was the slight crease between his brows, the way the bridge of nose moved slightly. His large, clawed hands that could murder within an instant were nothing but soft touches to her. As Rin spent more time with her husband, her mate, she came to understand how he communicated.
Rin supposed that Sesshomaru would never be truly expressive in the sense of how others were but if she could fully understand Sesshomaru's mannerisms and facial expressions, then that was enough for now. She knew how much he loved her. She came to understand how long he had been waiting for her.
Toga had slipped a vital piece of information out while Rin was asking about Sesshomaru's age a few days prior during one of her lessons.
…..
….
"You see princess, the Inu clan can live to a very old age." Toga said, pacing the room.
Rin sat with her parchment paper and writing quill in her hand.
"Lord Toga, how old is Sesshomaru?" Rin asked.
"Old enough," Toga said with a chuckle.
"Well, I figured that my lord but how old?" Rin pressed.
"Wait, don't tell me. I want to guess!" Rin said, bouncing in her seat.
"By all means, princess," Toga said, waving his arm for her to continue.
Rin had tried on several occasions to get Sesshomaru to tell her his age, but he would never say. His response, "It matters not, age is a number."
"Hm well, according to you Amaterasu visited you when Sesshomaru was born but she knew who you were at least 100 years before you were born. The king and queen who raised me were not born until 1,000 years later…." Rin sat thought in deep though trying to do the math.
"Sesshomaru would have to be around 500 years old?" Rin asked.
It would make sense. Izayoi mentioned that Inuyasha was over 200 years old when they met. Kimi once mentioned it was only Sesshomaru in the castle for 300 years before Inuyasha was born.
"More or less around that age, " Toga answered smiling.
Rin smiled in triumph until a thought entered her mind, "My lord….if Sesshomaru is 500 years old how long has he known about me?"
Toga had started pacing again but stopped in his tracks at her question. The demon beast king slowly turned and looked at her with a look of….sadness.
"He hasn't known about me his…..whole life has he?" Rin shakily asked. Her eyes started burning from her tears that were threatening to fall. She quickly sealed off her mind from Sesshomaru so he would not be alerted.
"My lord?..."
Toga looked away.
"Then that would mean….oh god…." Rin gasped.
Toga's silence was enough for Rin to know.
Rin stood from her seat in shock, stepping back.
"Oh god…..he's been waiting for me this whole time?" Rin whimpered out, her hand flying to her mouth.
Kimi suddenly burst into the room, looking between Rin and Toga. Rin looked between both youkai knowing that Toga called Kimi to calm her down.
"Mother…has Sesshomaru been waiting for me his whole life?" Rin sobbed out.
Kimi sighed and quickly walked to Rin, bringing her into a tight embrace.
"Rin, there is no need to cry….We're not sure how but we think Sesshomaru has known. We never told him until one day he returned to the castle out of the blue. When he returned, we told him of you, and he didn't seem surprised."
"When he returned?" Rin whispered.
"You see, Sesshomaru never preferred living here. He's more of a free spirit. He liked roaming the countryside and lands. We never stopped him, we figured it was something he had to do. We knew one day he would return. So, we decided to not speak of you until he returned. As I said, one day he just returned without a word and started taking part of Toga's army and meetings. Once we were certain he was staying for good, we finally told him about his mate. He simply nodded and told us to let him know when it was time for him to meet you."
Rin listened as Kimi sat her down, she took a cloth from inside her kimono and wiped away the few tears that were running down her face.
To think that her husband had been waiting 500 years for her.
Rin could only imagine the anguish Sesshomaru must have felt when he found out what Naraku had done to her.
That his long-awaited mate finally arrives to be his only to be traumatized by the enemy and now terrified of his touch?
Rin's small hand clutched at her chest, her husband's name quietly falling from her lips.
Kimi and Toga continued to explain that Sesshomaru was strong and patient, but Rin could only think of the loneliness her husband must have felt waiting for her. Rin nodded at Kimi and Toga's words, vowing that she would find some way to let Sesshomaru know she was trying. She would find a way to let Sesshomaru know that he mattered to her, and she wanted to be his mate.
…..
…
"This is what you want?" Sesshomaru asked, he still had not moved once she straddled him.
"Yes," Rin answered, leaning forward softly brushing her lips against his.
Their kisses started slow and soft, Sesshomaru allowing Rin to control their movements. After a few minutes, Rin pulled back and gently grasped Sesshomaru's hands, placing them on her hips.
"It's ok to touch me, I want you to."
Rin then placed her arms around his neck hugging him tight and slowly rocked herself against his hard member. Sesshomaru slowly rubbed her hips, his breath quickening in her ear.
Their movements were slow at first, Rin could tell Sesshomaru was holding back, not wanting to frighten her. Rin then pressed their foreheads together. She spread her thighs wider to get more friction.
"Like this?" Rin asked in a timid voice.
Sesshomaru grasped her hips tighter, tucking her center closer, and helped her move, dragging her damp center across his stiffening member.
"Oh!" Rin gasped as she felt a jolt of pleasure. She gripped his shoulders tight, "Again." She softly pleaded.
Rin could feel her husband's member, he was quite large. She hoped when it came time to finally consummate their marriage he would fit.
Sesshomaru dragged her hips a few more times until Rin caught on to the rhythm. His grip lessened and he started peppering kisses on her face down to her neck gently sucking at her pulse point. Rin softly moaned, thrusting her hips.
Having never done this before, Rin experimentally rolled her hips and deeply moaned at the intense friction it caused. Feeling the tingling sensation start to build, Rin continued rolling her hips. Sesshomaru moaned under her, his hands cupping her bottom pushing her back and forth in quick movements.
Rin cried out at the increasing throbbing between her thighs. She started rubbing herself against him, her movements becoming frenzied and erratic. She bared more of her weight onto her knees trying to find release. She could feel Sesshomaru occasionally thrust up into her movements.
"Sesshomaru!" Rin gasped out, throwing her head back in pleasure.
Sesshomaru gently tugged her yukata from her shoulder and bit into her mating mark.
With the mix of pain and pleasure coursing through her body, Sesshomaru wrapped his arms around her waist and pressed her fully down on his stiff member. At her husband's movements, Rin's eyes squeezed shut, all breath leaving her body as she orgasmed in Sesshomaru's lap. Her small hands fisted his yukata, her thighs clenching, and toes curling. Her release lasted another moment until Sesshomaru's grip softened. She felt his fangs leave her neck, lapping at any blood that spilled. When his tongue stopped moving, Rin slumped forward into his chest.
Overcoming her bashfulness, Rin looked into Sesshomaru's eyes.
There was only softness in his amber gaze. Warmth and love flooded their mental link. Rin leaned forward and softly kissed her husband, her hand cupping his warm cheek. Sesshomaru gently rolled them, so she was laying on her side and tucked her in.
Neither spoke, sleep causing the young princess's eyes to droop. Within a few moments, she was fast asleep feeling content in her husband's arms.
…..
…
Sesshomaru growled once Rin fell asleep, he pulled away from her soft yielding body and rubbed himself through his hakama. He helped his mate find her sexual release and she was so beautiful when she did. Her body tightened and arched for him. His name fell from her lips in a sweet melodic tone.
However, he did not find release with her. He could not allow himself to. His inner beast was pushing to be released each day now. It was becoming more….difficult to contain the urge to not just rut his little mate each day.
He had purposefully come late to their chambers tonight in the hopes she would be asleep. Then her arousal hit his senses as he undressed for the night which is why he moved to their private bathing chambers. Once alone, he closed his eyes concentrating on everything else but the sweet smell of his mate's arousal filling his senses. Taking a deep breath and pushing down his desire for his mate, he returned in the hopes that she was merely waiting for him to embrace her and then go to sleep.
When he asked his question if she liked what she saw, he did so only in a teasing manner expecting she would turn away and say nothing. Be it to his surprise that she answered.
His statement of going to sleep was his only salvation of hoping she would simply nod in agreement. The next thing he knew she was straddling him, pressing her soft quim to his cock wanting more.
He wasn't expecting that she would be wanting intimacy. During the past few months, Sesshomaru had made sure that all their intimacies were kept outside of their futon lest he be tempted to want more.
Hopefor more…
As she rode him, seeking pleasure, he had to keep himself in control. He only touched her when he needed to. He couldn't risk fully embracing her otherwise his inner beast would bleed through and take her without her being fully ready.
With his cock fully hard, Sesshomaru released himself from his confines and started pumping himself. His eyes turning red and his breathing ragged, he took in her shapely hips and the outline of her full breasts. He moved to his knees, stroking himself. By this point, he had scooted away from their futon, he had to put some distance between them. Any closer and….He took a deep inhale, smelling her arousal and release still lingering. Replaying her soft sounds of when she came, Sesshomaru bit his lip to hide his moan as he finally released, his cock pulsing in his hand.
Rin continued sleeping as Sesshomaru's release subsided, his breathing even out. His eyes stayed red for the rest of the night as he merely sat by their futon.
Sesshomaru vowed he would maintain control of himself.
There was no other option at this point.
~oOo~
Rin woke up to Sesshomaru next to her kneeling by their futon.
"Good morning Sesshomaru!" Rin said, rubbing the sleep from her eyes.
"Mate." Sesshomaru said his usual stoic mask in place.
"What are your plans for today my dear husband?" Rin asked, now sitting up.
The young princess felt a light blush spread across her face at the memories from last night.
'Do you regret it?'
Rin's head snapped up to Sesshomaru's eyes, 'No! I'm happy with what we did last night. You've been nothing but gentle and understanding with me for the past few months. I felt ready for more.'
Sesshomaru cupped Rin's face, the bridge of his nose slightly creasing.
Rin smiled inwardly knowing that she understood that his nose creasing meant he was relaxed and content.
"Do you feel well enough to go on a journey with my mother and I? We wish to take you somewhere." Sesshomaru asked.
"Of course! Where are we going?" Rin asked in excitement.
"Your servant is here," Sesshomaru said and then stood as Maiko knocked and entered.
Maiko sensing that something was being talked about, bowed before her lord and lady and waited.
"See that your mistress is dressed for cooler weather, she will be traveling via flight upon her dragon." Sesshomaru said with a head tilt.
"Yes, Lord Sesshomaru," Maiko said, moving to Rin's wardrobe to procure the adequate clothing for her travel.
Sesshomaru turned back to Rin, "I shall see you shortly."
….
….
Sesshomaru exited his chambers to find his father waiting for him.
"Sesshomaru, let us take a walk before you and your mate go on your journey."
Toga and Sesshomaru took a short walk until they reached the outer reaches of the courtyard of their estate.
"You and your mate are well?" Toga asked, turning to look at his son.
"Yes, Rin is well as you know." Sesshomaru answered.
"Hm…you misunderstand me. I mean how is your….physical relationship with your mate?"
Sesshomaru only glared.
"Son, you know that I mean not to pry but it's been three months since your mate has joined us. I am to assume that you and she have not consummated your union. Or am I incorrect?" Toga quietly said.
Sesshomaru sighed and paced a few moments before finally turning to look at his father.
"We have not."
Toga held back the grimace of his face, "Sesshomaru…..you are pushing your youkai into dangerous ground by not claiming Rin. You need to claim her."
"Father, I have it under control."
"Sesshomaru-" Toga started but was harshly cut off.
"I said I have it under control father!" Sesshomaru hissed, his eyes flashing red for a brief moment.
Both Inu males regard each other, nothing else being said.
Toga merely nodded, "Sesshomaru."
As Toga walked away, he prayed to the gods that Sesshomaru was right.
~oOo~
Rin stood waiting dressed in a thicker kimono and the red cloak that the Inu family had gifted her. When Sesshomaru had seen her, he nodded, and his eyes softened. Kimi smiled in mirth, "It's beautiful on you princess."
Sesshomaru was strapping the harness on her dragon A-Un. After a week of spending time with her dragon, Rin finally decided on a name. Once Sesshomaru tightened the reins, he turned and gently lifted Rin onto the dragon's large back. Kimi stood nearby waiting.
"Mother, are you taking a dragon as well?" Rin asked, getting comfortable.
"No, sweet child. I'll be traveling in my light form." Kimi said with a smile.
"Light form?"
Kimi only smiled and in a blink of an eye, Kimi was gone. Now only a bright ball of light hovered in her place. The ball of light dances around in front of Rin and then zipped out of the stable door.
"Was that.." Rin asked in shock.
"She tends to show off at times," Sesshomaru answered.
Soon A-Un trotted out the stable door and took to the sky.
'How long will it take us to get there?'
'At least an hour.'
Rin embraced the cooler weather, pulling her cloak closer to her body and closed her eyes to the shining sun.
Ame-No-Uzume came to her mind suddenly. Even though it was cooler out, Rin felt a brush of warm air touch her face. It didn't frighten her, only gave her peace. Rin looked around in curiosity.
'Is everything ok?'Sesshomaru pushed into their link.
'Yes, I thought…..I got the feeling that Ame…my mother is here…'
'No one has seen her in over a 1,000 years….it may be possible.'Sesshomaru answered.
Rin nodded and decided not to read too much into what she felt.
After an hour of flight, Rin felt Sesshomaru pull the reins tight on A-un, signaling the dragon the land. The green land becomes closer as they near the ground. Once on soft earth, Sesshomaru pulled Rin down. Rin looked up to Kimi waiting and gasped at the sight behind her mother.
"Come princess, it's time you met the Tree of Ages."
…..
…
…
Meanwhile in a different time in the Heavens…..
…
Amenominakanushi, Takamimusubi, and Kamimusubi watched the small trio from their perch in the forbidden part of Heaven that none dared enter.
"Do you think any of them know?" Amenominakanushi asked, turning to their fellow gods.
"Not so far…" Takamimusubi said.
"And the Makami's mother? Ame-No-Uzume?" Kaminusubi asked
"She is still in her induced sleep." Amenominakanushi said.
"And she'll stay there?" Kaminusubi asked, cocking their head to the side.
"She's been in her sleep for over 1,000 years, nothing will wake her. I've seen to it." Amenominskanushi said.
…
…..
Ame-No-Uzume lay sealed in her tomb not knowing what was going on with the outside world or what her daughter was going through….
Or so the Gods thought….
Ame-No-Uzume fingers twitched, her brow creasing as her only daughter's thoughts of her drifted through the Heavens….
~oOo~
Author's Notes:
Well, what did you guys think? As I mentioned Ame-No-Uzume would be coming back, it's just when she shows up...
Sesshomaru and Rin's intimacy will continue to develop. I also plan on explaining more about Sesshomaru and what he was doing while waiting for Rin.
The next update will be in January!
Thoughts? Comments? Concerns?
Thanks for reading!