I'm sorry for the long wait, I'm trying to post and update more frequently ATM. I hope you like this update and I'll try to make more in the near future. I've been travelling a lot, working more and my personal life has been all over the place. But I'm trying to re-focus on my writing again. Anyway, please review and give me any requests for future chapters :)
It had been at least a few weeks now since Haru's sickness and Rin pushing herself to the point of weakening herself. She knew how stupid and reckless what she did was, given how she put her wellbeing at risk. But it was for a good cause, for the boy she loved. Not only did she use her energy to help protect and strengthen his immunity. But she watched over the temple using a barrier that would prevent any dangers from entering. She knew he would always have danger lingering over his shoulder, it was the burden of his gift. The reason why he kept his distance from others was a form of self defence, making sure he never got hurt by anyone. Meaning he was luckier than he knew to have her in his life, his own personal bodyguard whom would be loyal to him his whole life.
Yes, it had its downsides and it's better moments, most people would assume living with a cute girl would be a blessing but life wasn't that simple. The temple wasn't just Haru's home, it was also hers. The same way his grandfather had helped raise him here and teach him how to use his powers. Her own had brought her to the temple and protect the residents and the temple itself, just as their family had for generations. It seemed fate had brought them together. But that meant they shared one another's burdens which could truly weigh on their conscience. The guilt of putting each other through that aching in their hearts.
As hurt as she was that Haru didn't remember her, she understood. She had never shown him her face, having kept hidden as to prevent her identity being revealed. She had watched over him for years, but she had never actually spoken to him in person. But no girl liked to feel so invisible to someone they had loved for so long. But it had been for his own good, she hadn't been ready to speak to him yet, not until she was strong enough to protect him. She knew it took a long time but she was finally ready.
She was prepared to do anything to keep him safe, he was the love of her life after all. Without him her life would be empty, as if she could love someone the way she did Haru. She knew the fate of their future relationship and what child they would have in the future, but she didn't care. She was willing to risk it all for him, she dared anyone to lay a hand on Haru or their future child. She had become strong for their sake and she would fight for them no matter what. Even if she had to act as his shield and become weakened temporarily because of it. Both Makoto and herself had warned Haru to be careful after his sickness. Not wanting him to spiral into another relapse, making sure he took time out for occasional naps and taking time to eat. He may have been a priest but his body was still human and he was prone to damage.
Of course revealing her true nature to someone came with it's setbacks, she had been so good at hiding her identity until now. It was easy to hide her nature and remain invisible to humans, but every now and again some did find out. Mostly those few who like Haru were gifted with supernatural powers, most normal humans like Makoto who found out had their memory wiped as to remain a secret. Makoto was stunned that Rin was a tengu, having read about demons in books since she was a little girl. Aware that Haru could see supernatural things invisible to the human eye, her being one of the ungifted. But to meet one in real life, to know her childhood friend was living with a demon. Well, it was a lot for someone to take in, to accept.
Rin was by no means a bad person, it was clear she thought the world of Haru and had softened up to her over time. But to know she was a powerful demon, capable of overpowering their entire town if she so wished and more. Well, it was hard to picture, they were known for being pranksters and capable warriors. But she never knew demons could be so beautiful, those glowing red maroon eyes, her luminous skin and stunning body. She wasn't attracted to women herself, but even she could admit that Rin's beauty was nothing like that of a human woman. Hell, she was somewhat intimidated by it. But maybe Rin loving Haru wasn't a bad thing, she was the one person who could understand his powers better than anyone. She knew all about the things he could see. She would never judge him and would make sure he would remain safe from supernatural powers.
She had seen the fear in Makoto's eyes, how she looked pale and about to faint. Not just by Rin's power but about how truly monstrous she had appeared, the predatory look in her eyes as she restrained her anger. She could have run away and never come back, but she knew Makoto would never abandon Haruka like that. She was a brave girl to have returned to the den of a demon and accept her. But Makoto was a good girl and she was glad both she and Haruka had her as a friend and ally.
Rin blushed, she knew this was a big move on her half but she couldn't risk it. She couldn't always be near Haru and the thought of him coming to harm scared the shit out of her. I mean, after him getting sick she hadn't left her post once. The tears she cried out of relief, she felt sick after. Yes she cried so hard she gave herself stomach ache, but she had been so worried about him. Yet Haru would not let her live it down, saying how her eyes were all red and swollen, which she was self conscious about. But he reassured it made him happy and praised her for being so honest about her emotions. But she wondered about how much it took for her to keep him safe.
She sat at that temple for days, pouring her power through her body like a battery. Hell, she doubted any demons would be trying anything for a while after that. But she couldn't take any risks. There were some demons who would get cocky and try something. Due to his immense spiritual power, there would be demons who would want to use him as food. Others who would try to seduce him and use their power for his own, bleeding him dry until it killed him. Not all demons were as good hearted as she was, not all demons respected that humans were living beings not just food. She and Haru had grown closer since their first meeting, she sensed the same romantic attraction towards her that she carried for him. But they had not moved on from their relationship aside from awkward flirting and genuine moments of affection and love.
I mean it was awkward for them both, puberty was a weird time for them and aside from sensing comfort whenever showing affection. They had never really been bold enough to attempt anything remotely sexual or suggest such a thing to one another. God knows she wanted to, and she could sense he wanted her too. But they were being patient with one another, testing the waters before they sensed mutual consent from one another to cross the border. She kissed him, but yes in the form of giving him energy. Every one had been filled with love and affection, venting her affections for him. But she hadn't yet kissed him, not to give him energy but solely for love. Though she sensed he knew how she felt, he was bad at showing it. Then again they were one another's firsts in many ways, they had no experience with another person before.
Though she acted cocky and confident, she was naïve and uneducated in some areas. Mental fantasies were very different from real life, watching your crush from afar and actually living with them was very different. Sometimes her mind went blank and she said the wrong thing. She tried to do her best helping with chores around the temple and his home life. Not trying to get in his way and be annoying to him, but she couldn't help but worry about him. She just had this instinct, telling her when something was wrong, that Haru could possibly be in danger. She knew he pushed himself, either due to being stubborn or lack of self-awareness. But he was getting better, thinking about how his actions would affect those around him.
Though nothing too complicated had happened in their life yet, she was painfully aware that such things may arise in the future. But she didn't want to think about that, what possible dangers herself and her loved ones may find themselves in. Instinct helped but it was not a clear prediction of what troubles may raise their ugly head and mess up their lives. She would chase away any threats that tried to ruin her peaceful life, showing she was a force to be reckoned with behind her pretty face. But there would always be times when she couldn't be around to protect him. Even Makoto with her medicine carried no spiritual power of her own which meant she would be endangered too. She couldn't let that happen, she needed to keep them safe. Her grandfather had taught her many spells and many lessons before his death. Ones she had treasured and perfected as she got older. She didn't doubt this would work, she dared any demon to try and harm him with this magic. "He better appreciate this, I can't always be doing such things" she mumbled. It would become a hassle for her.
Rin huffed, reaching out her hand swiftly so he could see her gift clearly. This was the first gift she had given him, but it was one he would always wear with him. He could hide it under his clothes and not have to worry about getting crap from spirits in the future. It couldn't scare off larger demons much, but the smaller entities that bothered him in his daily life and weakened him would back off. He could breathe easier and not have to rely on medicine so much. Trying to make his life easier. Once you left a talisman like this on your mate, other demons knew better than to attempt to steal that demons chosen partner. It was pretty much leaving marks on the human, like a dog scenting it's master. Every demon would be aware of the fact she had imprinted on him. She knew it was a bold move but this was the right choice, her grandfather would be proud of his son in law, and the happiness they would have in the future. If only he could be here to see it.
Haru blinked, his blue eyes filled with confusion. I mean it was very pretty but what exactly was it? In her hand, Rin was holding a beaded necklace, small black pearls head on a chain with a small black feather. He tentatively took the small gift in his hand gazing at it fondly. "Um… Rin, what is this?" he asked. He could feel the power flowing through it just from his touch. The vibrations were strong, but why would she give him something like this? Not that he wasn't grateful for it at all. But he didn't understand why he would need it. I mean, was it like a matching ring or something that couples wore? He had never really received gifts from a girl like this before.
Rin blushed, was he really making her explain all this? God she wanted to facepalm so badly, venting her frustration on how clueless he was. Couldn't he just be grateful and leave it be? She sighed and huffed if she treated it like a lesson it would be less embarrassing to explain. If she told him the truth he would understand and simply accept it. "It's one of my primary feathers, like a talisman. It will scare off those pests that try to absorb your energy and weaken you. It won't fully scare of any big guys but it will make your life easier. Take a lot off of me and Makoto's backs too" she mumbled sternly. This way, Makoto wouldn't have to take so much medicine to him. And she wouldn't have to divert so many negative parasites that clung to him. She was marking him so people would know he was under the protection of a tengu and wouldn't try anything funny. However, she would still need to give him energy in order to prevent him from becoming sick like that again. It was a talisman, a protective device, warding off trouble. It wouldn't restore his energy but it was more like a shield that would allow him to keep more energy than lose it.
It wasn't uncommon with many demons to make personal markings on their human mates as a form of protection. However, it was no casual matter, it was a strong form of dedication to this person. Usually with a marriage partner, showing your loyalty and dedication to this person. She didn't give people her feathers in a gift like this to just anyone. In her own way, she was marking him as her mate, her potential lover and soulmate. So other demons would pick up on her aura and stay away. Though she used a lot of her power, her true capabilities were kept restrained due to the fact she had no use for them, yet.
Haru's eyes softened, a genuine look of surprise and happiness gleaming in his eyes. She had taken part of herself and was giving it to him, so he would carry it with him always. So they were together even when they were apart. He smiled fondly, slowing fastening it around his neck. Stroking the feather with his finger with a fond smile. "It's kind of like a collar huh? Is this your way of claiming me?" he teased cheekily. There was the rumour that tengu were perverted, maybe this was one of her subtle hints showing through. But deep down he was happy, to know that Rin loved him so much she wanted to keep him safe with her entire being. However, her jealous and angry face could be rather sexy sometimes, but what made it better was how unaware of it she was. Though she did at times use her sexuality to her advantage, this gesture was not often. She was often at her most potent when she was unaware of her effect on him.
Rin turned the colour of her hair, her feathers ruffled with excitement. She felt her voice vanish in her throat before she could argue. She hadn't meant it that way, but now the thought was stuck in her mind. Just what was he doing to her? I mean Haru was a priest and a teenager, he had no lover and she never found dirty material in his home. Did that mean he kept all of his perverse thoughts inside his own mind? Or was he just messing with her? "I… Idiot…it's not like that" she protested obstinately. She had no perverse intentions when she made this. She had created it with love, hoping that this would bring them all peace of mind. She didn't know if he was being serious or not, and she didn't like it. Hell, if he didn't like it just say so instead of playing games. She wouldn't take it back but he was damn well going to keep it.
Haru smiled, god she was adorable when she was embarrassed. He knew it was cruel but he couldn't help himself. "Gomen, thank you Rin. I know you worried about me when I was sick. I'll treasure this gift" he replied gently ruffling her head. He remembered how scared Makoto was when she told him about Rin's demonic identity. About how Rin pushed herself for his sake. He wouldn't let himself make her feel like that again if he could help it. He wondered if it would need purifying at times in order to renew its energy release.
Rin softened, it was hard to stay mad at him when he made that face. God why did he have to be so charming? He was making her a strange woman. "You'd better, those things aren't easy to make. And don't make me worry like that again, It's not good for my mental health" she warned. He had no idea of the effect he had on her heart, how easy it was for him to sway her emotions and her rationality. How filled her heart and head was of him.
"Hai, but now I'll owe Rin a present now too" he called back. He had to give her something to show his thanks, so he could leave a mark on her too. It was only fair after all, that way they could match. Rin shivered, she didn't like the sound of that. I mean she was curious about what he had in mind, but after that collar comment, she didn't trust him to make something dirty as a joke. She frowned in displeasure but said nothing, not wanting to overthink the matter.
"That Haru, he's not changed since we were kids. He should know better than to tease you" Makoto sighed wearily. But she knew he wouldn't do something crude to her. He just wanted to get a rise out of Rin. She knew he wouldn't do something to upset her like that. In his own way, he just wanted to make something for Rin to show how much she meant to him. As thanks for what she had done for him all this time, I mean he had put her through a lot.
"He's such an idiot" Rin mumbled, I mean receiving a gift from Haru made her heart flutter like a bird. But not knowing what it could be and him making such assumptions, she didn't know how to take it. She would love whatever gift Haruka picked out for her, wearing it with pride. But it was his ability to keep it so mysterious that made her worry, teasing her with anticipation and worry of what he had in store for her. But venting to Makoto about it did help her stresses ease on the matter.
"I'm sure he is just as flustered Rin. I mean you gave him such a serious present, you gave him a literal part of yourself. A talisman of one of your feathers. To protect him always, I'm sure Haru has no idea of how precious it is" Makoto explained. Haru was still very awkward, I mean Rin had so boldly confessed her love, revealed her demonic identity and moved in all at the same time. He tended to avoid girls at school and focused on his training, love had just never happened to him. Now a demon girl was living under his roof and now was such a big part of his life. Showing her sincere love and dedication towards him so openly. Not many boys his age could compare to such a thing.
Rin had vented her very essence, aura and energy into the gift, this went beyond chocolates, stuffed toys and the like. It was a very suitable gift and would help him on his way as a priest in the future. Makoto laughed nervously, she wished she had the courage of Rin when it came to her own love life. She could never be able to muster the ability to try such a thing when it came to Sousuke. "I wish I was as bold as you, to be able to give such an important thing to the person I like" she confessed.
Rin averted her gaze sighing heavily, she felt bad that she might be showing Makoto up. As far as she knew she hadn't made any new progress with her crush. But did she appear brave or stuck up to her, but what she did know was that Makoto was jealous but didn't seem angry. Did this mean she did admire her or something? Another fangirl whom adored her, god was she becoming a deity to them or something? She really hoped not.
"Sorry, did I say something odd?" Makoto apologized. Did that seem rude to say? She didn't mean anything mean by it. She was envious of how a demon could do something so amazing. Humans did have such an ability. I mean they could exchange thoughtful presents to people they cared about, but to create a magical object like that for their partner, such a feat was impossible to them.
"No… it's not that… it's just saying it out loud…." It sounded even more embarrassing than it had been. Remembering her heart racing in her chest, time had stopped. Praying he accepted it and didn't make fun of her. How much effort she had put into making it. Putting off for days when to give it to him due to the fact she panicked non stop about whether it was a good idea or if he would even accept it.
Haru watched the girls from afar, a look of concern on his face. The black beads shining in the light as he sat in his room. He had noticed Makoto enter and sitting with Rin like they often did alone. He knew Makoto was weak to influence but didn't have trouble with demons as he did. However, though he knew it was selfish he hoped she didn't ask for one too. She was safe on the temple grounds and never truly suffered from demonic influence as he did. This gift was a part of Rin, he didn't want to share her. He wanted this piece all to himself and Makoto sharing it too, he didn't want that. He wanted to be the only person.
Rin rested on the temple roof, gazing at the clouds roll by like wisps of smoke in an ocean of endless blue. Many times she had sat here as a girl, thinking about Haru and how she would one day tell him how she felt. Oh how things had changed since then. Things had certainly become more complicated since she was a child. She never thought she would be in this situation as his roommate, partner in crime and love interest. I mean they could be lovers, but aside from occasional flirting and tender moments, they didn't really act much like a couple. He didn't see the kissing as more than a bother and energy exchange. He teased her yes but never really called her his girlfriend or lover. The only reason he tolerated her perhaps was that she lived here too. She sighed heavily if she was to become Haru's bride someday things would have to change. But she doubted such a thing would ever happen at this rate, so she could only be patient.
"Oi, Rin. Are you sleeping?" Haru called. He knew this would be where she was hiding, I mean she used to when they were kids right? So he had a feeling this was where she would be when she wanted to be alone. He wondered if her grandpa's ashes were hidden in this temple somewhere too, it would make sense given every generation in her family had protected it. So to have relatives memorials inside would have been a normal thing to do. But he felt asking her would be too impersonal and insensitive, so he could only assume.
Rin blinked, sitting up hastily to see Haru standing at the temple entrance. I mean there was nothing to stop him it was on his property. She just wondered that he didn't have better things to do now that he was wearing her talisman. "I thought you would be off having some freedom with my trinket" she replied bluntly. Now he could roam freely without her having to watch over his shoulder all the time, he could breathe easier from demonic parasites when he was at school too. he could have semi normal life again.
Haru sighed, he knew she was going to be mad after his teasing. But then again it was just his way of showing he cared about her. But then didn't guys tease cute girls all the time in hopes of getting their attention? Childish he knew. Rin was a very alluring woman, even if she was a demon. Her sharp cheekbones, her glowing reddish maroon eyes, her figure and her smile. She was the first girl to fluster him in such a way and turn his life upside down. How quiet his life had been before she came into it. Though she wore a beautiful Kimono, she kept herself plain. Never really overdressing, wearing makeup or even attempting anything feminine at all. Which was a shame as some garments would suit her well. "Would you quit sulking and come down here. I want to give you something" he sighed. He had never given a present to a girl before, not even Makoto. They were friends and birthday presents were another matter entirely after all.
Rin hesitated, sensing the frustration and hope in his tone. She didn't often see him so flustered so it had to be important. She relented and climbed down from the roof, landing effortlessly. She then looked up at him impatiently, warning him not to tease her again "You have something for me?" she asked. If she sensed any kind of mischief or manipulation on his end she would be really angry at him. She didn't like to be made fun of on a habitual basis, it was not appealing to her at all.
Haru blushed, that look in her eyes only made him more nervous. Like a predator staring down at how pathetic its prey looked, now he knew how embarrassed she felt about that necklace. But he couldn't back out now, it was too late for that. "Close your eyes" he asked bravely. He wanted it to be a surprise, I mean if she saw it then she would ruin it. He wanted her to be excited and surprised, that cute look she always wore. He understood her worry but he had no ulterior motives, solely to give her a gift.
Rin peered at him suspiciously, hoping he wouldn't doodle on her face or something childish like that. If he did so, he would have the wrath of a demon vented towards him and he should be wary of her rage. However, she relented and closed her eyes as he asked of her. She heard him approach and gripped her hands into balled fists, willing herself to keep her eyes closed and trust him. Hoping he would not play some silly prank on her, that he was better than such things. She then felt the sensation of him running his hand through her hair, was he going to kiss her? Is that why he asked her to close her eyes? Was he trying to apologize in his own way?
"It matches" Haru said abruptly, snapping her train of thought. He knew it would look lovely on Rin and if she grew out her hair, it would look even better. Rin opened her eyes in confusion, what was he on about? She touched the side of her head to feel a hair clip placed there. She stared into one of the temple windows and gasped, it was so lovely. It was a simple black slide with a red translucent camelia printed with more oriental flowers. "I bought it for you, I know your bangs get in the way a lot and it matches your kimono" he explained. Maybe now the clip would make it easier for her to see when flying, and if her hair got longer she could style it back.
Rin didn't know what to say, this was the first present she had ever received from him. But then her talisman was the same for him, meaning they had both been as bashful about giving their gifts to one another. She felt a sense of relief knowing her crush was just as bashful as she. She felt a sense of pride and yet awkwardness come over her, bowing her head as she tried to focus her emotions. She was such a fool but so was he, but he made her so happy inside. Like she was in a dream, never wanting to wake up. She would hold this gift close to her heart always, protect it with her life.
She shyly approached him, her eyes still fixed to the floor. If she looked at him she would only make an ass of herself. She looked like a fool right now but she didn't much care. She tentatively reached out her shaking hands to grasp his robes for support, leaning towards his cheek to kiss him bravely. This blunt, awkward, honest and gentle priest was someone she had loved all her life. She doubted she would ever stop, but that was fate. You could not choose whom you fell for, the heart wanted what it wanted.
Haru blushed as he felt her lips touch his cheek. Though she had kissed him before it was generally for energy and usually on the lips. In this moment it felt more personal, knowing they were connected through two items. Her feather and his flowers, a small piece of themselves they would carry with them forever. "Idiot... but thank you" she mumbled nervously, she would never take this off, no matter what.