It wasn't odd to see Rin in the garden among Kagomes company. For some time it had not seemed out of place that Sesshomaru would come get his young ward.
What was noticed however was the items they suddenly seemed to be in possession of, better food items.
"How you gettin' extra stuff to share?" Koga questioned Sesshomaru as he offered him a small bag of rice with dried fish.
"Are you complaining?" He countered.
"No. Just, whatever it is you're doing…watch yourself alright?"
"Worry about yourself and yours." His words weren't unkind as he turned to leave. He had a full day of work ahead and aimed to get it done in order to take Rin home.
Being naturally strong Sesshomaru had the task of stripping metal from old carts and tools to be melted down and reused. It was mindless work that he could accomplish quickly.
On occasion he would come across an old rusty sword with a dull or broken edge that would remind him of days gone by.
Taking the worn hilt in his hand gave him a thrill of excitement as he recalled his days of being an adept swordsman.
Before anyone could see he would break the metal down at the hilt and toss it into the pile before tossing the trash away.
Grabbing the barrel he sealed it and flung it over his shoulder to carry it towards the blacksmith, Totosai.
The elderly blacksmith jolted awake when Sesshomaru tossed down the barrel loudly.
"What?" Looking up he huffed. "Sesshomaru, what are you trying to kill me?"
"If I wanted to kill you Totosai, I would use my claws." He replied.
"Ah, get out of my sight you impetuous pup." Shooing him away with one hand Sesshomaru smirked. Placing a bag down from his kimono he placed it out of sight. "What's this?"
"Nothing." As Totosai opened the bag and sniffed it he glanced up at Sesshomaru.
"Well, thanks for nothing." He replied.
"Any time." Musing to himself Sesshomaru went back to work.
"Lady Kagome the dragons are doing so well. I hope that soon I can bring them here to show you." Rin gushed. "I cannot thank you enough for your hospitality."
"It is no problem Rin." Suddenly getting an idea Kagome smirked. "Why can't you bring me to go see them?"
"You want to see where we live?" Rin laughed out thinking she was joking.
"To see the dragons, yes." Kagome said standing. Feeling Shippos claws dig into her harder she looked to him. "What is it Shippo?"
"I don't think that is a good idea Kagome. What if you get caught?" He asked timidly.
"I'll think of something to say. I always do." She replied. "Besides I was never told that I could not go into the servants quarters."
"Well no, but, it is kind of common sense." Shippo countered.
"Listen Shippo, you can stay here if you want but I am going with Rin." Prying him off of her she patted his head. "We won't be long. Lead the way."
"Um, alright my lady." The little neko said clearly nervous.
As Sesshomaru brought the last of the days scrap metal to Totosai he saw Sango beelining for him. Setting his resolve he felt his stomach churn.
"Word has it there are rumors of a possible threat within the household." She said weaving her lie. "You're coming with me."
Not saying a word as she bound him she grasped the chain leading him to her spiders den.
"Oh no!" Rin exclaimed as she saw Sango leading Sesshomaru into the bowels of the keep.
"Stay here." Kagome ordered. Walking towards them fluidly she stood in front of them.
"Lady Kagome…" Sango began only to be interrupted.
"Where are you taking Sesshomaru?" She demanded.
"That is none of your concern my lady."
"It is my concern. I am a Higurashi therefore he is, technically, mine." Kagome retorted.
"Questioning."
"About?"
"Recent rumors of a possible rebellion."
"Sango, we have known each other a long time. I know when you are lying. I don't know what it is you plan on doing with Sesshomaru but I am putting a stop to it. Release him to my custody." Kagome said.
"Lady Kagome…"
"Now Sango." She ordered. Visibly upset Sango unhooked the chain from his waist and unbound his wrists.
"Anything else, my lady?" She questioned tersely.
"No. Come along Sesshomaru." Kagome motioned for him to follow her.
"Yes my lady." Keeping his eyes to the ground he followed behind her with his shoulder squared.
Watching them go off Sango crossed her arms in front of her chest and narrowed her eyes.
Breathing relief visibly as they approached, Rin smiled at them both. Leading Kagome towards the quarters where the demons lived Kagome had never actually been on this side of the compound.
Feeling out of place she looked back at Sesshomaru who seemed shaken. Taking a few steps back to meet his stride she took him in.
"Hey, are you alright? Sango didn't hurt you, did she?" Kagome asked concerned. Glancing at her he only shook his head once.
"This is our home." Rin said happily. Suddenly registering the direction they had gone in Sesshomaru grasped Kagomes wrist as she made to follow Rin into the hut.
His touch felt warm and sent tingles up her arm. Quickly she looked at him meeting his golden orbs. Her heart pounded as he only stared at her holding onto her.
"Sesshomaru?" She breathed out. Suddenly coming to himself he let her go and took a step back.
"My lady, it would not be proper for you to enter into our quarters." Sesshomaru said.
"Oh, not you too." She sighed out placing her hands against her hips. "I want to see the baby dragon. Now, if you will excuse me."
Watching her walk in to his home he couldn't help but smirk.
"Defiant brat." Deciding it best to stay outside while Kagome was indoors he kept watch.