Chapter 8: Masquerade

Rin gazed on as Sesshomaru walked off. His words echoed through her head, "I believe it will make this between us easier." She still wasn't able to comprehend what he meant.

Looking up at the clock it showed it was eight in the morning. She had two hours until her first math class and decided she would use the time to start on the paper. Finishing her coffee, and grabbing her bag, she maneuvered over to the library. It usually didn't take her long to write a one-page report on anything, especially when she got to double-spacing. She knew she would spend a good half-hour reading and the rest of the time writing.

Arriving at the library she noticed a few students inside. Some were at the computers and some were looking at books. She joined the students at a clustered pod of computers and logged on. The building was large and monstrous, somewhat intimidating. She opened chrome and went to google scholar to start her research on dog-demons. So many articles popped up. The history about his ancestors dated back to 500 B.C. There were dog-demons in America and Wolf-demons, but she had never taken the time in the past to learn about them, but he was specific, that it would be the Japanese Dog-demon.

Seeing the photos of his ancient ancestors brought a smile to her lips. She thought the male dog demons were pretty handsome. They were all wearing specific haoris for that era. One particular photo caught her eye. It looked like Sesshomaru. She began wondering if this was one of his great ancestors? They had the same crescent moon on their foreheads and double, magenta stripes along their cheeks. She thought nothing of it and put it off to the back of her mind.

She clicked out of that article and moved on to the next about their fighting. It explained some of it revolved around dominance. They would fight to protect their land or to protect their mate. Full dog demons were known to use venom from their hands or fangs if another dog demon tried to claim their mate. In today's time they would protect what was theirs the same way. Mates were recognized by scent. She thought that was funny. What's the point of recognizing someone by scent without love? Denial of the mate would eventually lead them to insanity unless a procedure was performed by a monk or a miko that would remove the connection and sterilize the demon. Human/demon pairings always birthed half-demons. She giggled when she saw the pictures depicting the typical half demon. They had adorable, triangular fuzzy ears like Inuyasha.

As she wrapped up her notes, she began writing the paper. Time went by so fast that she realized she typed more than one paper. First bell to allow students to head off to another period or to roam campus went off. She knew that she needed to head to her first class with Professor Myoga. Printing out the papers she logged off the internet. Grabbing her papers and bag she ran back outside.

The heat from the sun was warming her pale skin and it brought a smile to her lips. She missed the Florida skies, sitting outside her home by the pool doing yoga. She also missed waking up to the smell of the salt water from the ocean. With a smile upon her face she huffed quickly to her class.

It was the following day when Rin headed over to the dojo to hand in her paperwork to Sesshomaru. As his back was turned, she eyed his long silver hair that he kept tied back in a ponytail and dangled just by his knees. He wore simple black loose pants and a matching tank-top. He wasn't entirely unpleasant to look at and she kicked herself for the slight blush that crossed her cheeks. She felt somewhat less apprehensive about him now, but her fingers still shook and a pit formed in her stomach as she approached him just outside the dojo. "Sensei?" she called out to him.

He turned on his heels with a soft expression on his face. He stood with hands behind his back, quiet, unspeaking.

When she came to stand before him she bowed. "Sensei, here's the paper you asked me to write," she handed over several sheets of paper to him. Her fingers shook lightly as she did.

His eyes visibly altered when their thumbs and index fingers connected as the sheets were passed. "I asked for one page," he said, skimming through the five pieces of paper. A slight smirk appeared on his lips. "You were very thorough."

Rin raised her hand to shield her eyes, "yeah, I kind of got carried away. I love writing. The history of your kind was fun to learn about." Her toes fidgeted against the ground and her stomach ached a bit.

Sesshomaru was still looking at what she had written when he said, "I'm sorry that I don't have the paper I promised you yet. I'll finish it and give it to you later today. I didn't see you in the dojo this morning?" His eyes flicked from the pages over to her.

"I… I told you I didn't feel comfortable coming back yet," she said quietly rubbing her stomach. "I went for a run on the path outside school instead and did some calisthenics over at the lookout."

He nodded pensively. "Will you be in class this afternoon?"

She shrugged her shoulders just as Dai came up from behind Sesshomaru, "hey Rin! I tried calling you this morning," he embraced her tightly and laced her lips with his own.

The kiss lit a fire in her belly. "Hey," she muttered against his lips, feeling warmth wrapped in his body.

Sesshomaru shifted uncomfortably from behind them, shuffling his feet.

"Everything okay?" Dai asked as he held Rin's hand and stood rather defensively between her and the dog-demon.

"Yeah, I was just handing in the paper I told you about. I… I'm going to be late to Master Bankotsu's class," her hand ran down Dai's back. "I should probably go."

"Yeah, I got to get to my class too," he gave her another quick peck on the lips and left heading in the opposite direction she had to go.

As soon as he did, the pit returned in her stomach as she gazed at the proud dog demon who had not left and if she wasn't mistaken, there was a slight red glow to his eyes. "Well… if I read right, you'll know how to find me."

Sesshomaru for his part stood there silently. "You know I don't need a one page paper to explain what I know about your kind."

"Okay," she took a step back. "I'm… I'm going to be late," she pointed at the building she needed to walk to.

"Human females, especially those in the United States, have not been allowed in combat, which is what makes your skills so exceptional. They are a proud race, known for their love, and compassion. There have been a few rather unpleasant areas in your history as well as that of my own. The human female is typically more chatty than a male child as a toddler and a child, also more emotional and hormonal. You thrive off social contact and enjoy beautifying yourself with makeup and beauty products. Although some females are beautiful on their own," he whispered, taking a step forward and his eyes made her flinch. "I don't understand this fear you possess."

"I'm not afraid of anything," she knew that was a lie as soon as it came from her lips, but his advances had her backing up.

"Oi… if it isn't the freshman girl?" Another voice sounded off from behind Sesshomaru's shoulder.

She pivoted lightly at the same time as Sesshomaru.

Takahiro had a paper in his hand that he shoved into Sesshomaru's freehand. "I need you to sign this."

He flipped the paper over and laughed. "There's no space. I have something for you," he caught Rin's eyes.

"I insist," Takahiro mocked him. "My father is the President of Japan and gives a sizable donation to the school annually." The boy wore a pair of plain black slacks and a white button down shirt. His black hair was spiked on the top of his head. "Want to go on a date tonight?" He laid a side-long glance on Rin.

"No, I have a date, thank you," she muttered half turning to leave when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Glancing down, the hand had paired nails and rough skin. Something about it made her head spin and eyes water for a minute and for a brief second she was lost for words. Her mind flashed back, yellow sheets, a wire-framed bed, chains. She shook her head, forcing herself to be grounded.

"Hands off," Sesshomaru barked at the boy.

"If I'm not mistaken, the board has already had a long conversation with you about where your hands have been going," Takahiro goaded Sesshomaru as he tried to pull Rin back to his chests.

Her throat felt scratchy. Her mouth was dry. She cringed, then she felt the hand more forcefully ripped off her shoulder.

"I said, hands off." She turned to find Sesshomaru with a death grip on Takahiro's wrist. The dog-demon held it twisted, the pain causing Takahiro to drop to his knees, "and for this you want to be in my class? I will allow it. And the next opponent you'll face," he grit his teeth as he forced Takahiro to the ground, "will be her." He pointed boldly at Rin. "I do hope you have at least some technique," he threw Takahiro across the grass. The boy landed in a puddle that soaked his expensive white shirt in brown mud.

"My father will hear about this!" Takahiro stood up brushing off his pants and walked off.

Sesshomaru flicked the pen and paper at him chuckling, "worm."

Rin covered her mouth laughing to herself. "Thanks."

"I told you I am not all that bad," he motioned her with a crooked index finger to follow him into the dojo. She did nervously, not sure if she should until the smell of coffee and pumpkins hit her nose. He lifted the cup from his desk. "It may not be as warm now," he handed it to her.

"Again?" she found herself giggling in earnest. "Is this a peace offering?"

"Of sorts. And a hope that you will rejoin my class this afternoon," he sat on top of his desk and lifted a glass of water to his lips. "You are a skilled fighter. Why did you freeze back there?"

She swallowed hard as she tasted the warm coffee, "I didn't sleep well… after…"

He sighed, lowered the cup and rubbed his forehead, "you shouldn't let things like obnoxious men upset you so badly."

If only he knew.

"Did you read the part about dog-demons giving their word? A promise?"

"It stands for all time. Their pride prevents them from deception," she answered quickly.

"I gave my word to give you space and respect your privacy. I'm sorry again that my actions have caused you so much upset. My morning class is beginning soon. Master Bankotsu doesn't tolerate tardiness," he picked up a pad of paper and scribbled on it before handing it to Rin. "Would you like the chance to show that asshole what you're made of?"

A slow smile spread across her lips and she nodded.

"Come to class. I'll pair you against him. If you happen to give him a fat lip or kick him in some unsightly place that is forbidden, I won't report it. His father is powerful, but your parents also gave a sizable donation."

"They did? When?"

"This morning, my father told me," he rose off his desk. "That paper will exempt you from any recourse, but you should leave now, Rin."

She paused mid-sip. "You just said my name."

"Mmh," he seemed pensive. "Did I? Girl, go on." He urged her out of the dojo.

She ran out trying not to spill the latte all over herself as she made her way to her first class. Maybe he isn't so bad.

Later that afternoon Rin made the decision to attend class at the dojo, just hoping she was making the right decision. As she walked in the general direction of the building a female voice called, "Hey Rin!"

She turned to see that it was Kagome. Following her were Sango and Ayame. "Hey, Kagome, Sango and Ayame. What's up?" Rin asked cheerfully.

The girls came to stand before their American friend. "We were wondering if later this afternoon you would like to go do some shopping at the mall? We want to start finding dresses for the masquerade at the end of the month," Kagome said excitedly.

"Sure, I would love to join you guys. But I'm going to have to get a shower after my judo class," she informed them.

Sango was the one to reply, "that's no problem. We were also thinking of getting dinner at a restaurant in the mall afterward," Sango was beaming from eye to eye.

"Sounds like a plan. I'll catch you all later at the gates. Oh!" She took a piece of paper and a pen out of her designer bag and wrote down her number. "Here's my cell number." She handed the piece of paper to Kagome.

"Thank you. We'll see you later this evening. This is going to be exciting," Kagome jumped up like a giggly schoolgirl. Soon all three girls left.

She shifted her bag on her back as she walked to the dojo. The sky was covered in clouds as she jogged. Dai ran next to her holding her hand, "we spent too long making out," he laughed as he jogged next to her. They had met for lunch and then found a secluded pavilion to sit at. They talked while they ate their meal and then one thing led to the next and she was on his lap and their lips were interconnected until he got a phone-call from his brother asking where he was and why he was late for class.

"It's not my fault," she argued laughing.

"Yes, it is! Stop being so beautiful," Dai gave the palm of her hand a squeeze, "let me go in first. I'll tell him it's my fault."

They entered the dojo with a red sheen flushing on Rin's cheeks. Her ears even felt warm. She hadn't had many boyfriends back in Florida, but she really liked Dai. He was an amazing kisser and just generally sweet which she enjoyed. Sesshomaru was pacing around the class critiquing the students about their techniques as they stretched. He whirled around just as they entered, "you're late." His nostrils flared and Rin wondered why his eyes were red again.

"Sorry," Dai raised a hand up and scratched his back nervously. "We were uh…"

"Making out?" Sesshomaru shook his head. "I see you forgot about my sense of smell Dai, perhaps that's because you are a hanyou and a leopard demon at that. Pathetic." The dog demon humiliated the poor hanyou. "Warm up, then you owe me laps. I think fifty should do it. As for you Rin," a brief smile crossed his lips, "you will meet me after class to discuss your consequences."

"Okay," she said sheepishly. She gave Dai a reassuring squeeze on his bicep. His face was red and he was flushing. "That was rude," she muttered to him as they headed for the mats to stretch.

"Don't worry about it. Pure-blooded demons hate hanyous like me," the young man said with a shrug of his shoulders. "Especially ones like him. He hates his own brother, detests him," he kept his voice so low that Sesshomaru couldn't hear it.

"Really?" She glanced back at the proud dog-demon who continued his rounds. "Why?"

"He's not pureblooded. Someone like him would take the magic way out if he ever found out his mate was human," he bent over in the proper stretching form.

Rin followed doing her own, raising her hands into the sky, then low down to her ankles, then repeating the form. "I hope his mate is a pure-blood like him then." She eyed him curiously as she leaned down into a proper split.

"Everyone thought it would be Kagura, you know the wind-demoness?" He was stretching his legs in deep lunges.

"Sadly," she left out the part where the demoness had attacked her.

"Yeah they were together for six months. Sometimes it takes time to find the right one, so you date instead and three months in, she starts having sex with Naraku," they both bent over straightened legs. "Completely forgot that he was a dog demon and can smell that two miles away."

"I can also hear across the dojo!"

"Shit," Rin jumped, holding her heart, "when did you get here?"

"Please Dai, continue telling Miss Campbell all about my previous love-life."

"No… that's okay," Dai stood up. "I'll just start my laps now. I'll talk to you after class Rin," he was about to lean down and kiss her lips when he was stopped by a forceful clawed hand.

"Not appropriate in my dojo," Sesshomaru barked.

Rin sat there dazed thinking about what Dai had said and slightly in awe that he had experienced a pain like that. Sesshomaru hadn't left standing behind her. He leaned against the wall, with one heel propped up, "make sure to stretch well. He'll be no match for you."

"How do you know?" she spoke in hushed tones as she leaned over her left leg.

"His father paid for the best teachers, but he never showed any real talent. He paid off the judges in tournaments when Takahiro was a child," he snorted. "I did some research between classes. His nose hasn't healed from that palm to the face you gave him a few days ago."

She only chuckled in reply.

"Don't freeze this time." He kicked off the wall and started to the middle of the dojo. "Students, let's go," he gestured with a hand to follow toward the blue mats.

As Rin headed for the mats, Dai came up beside her. "Hey," he poked her side while Sesshomaru wasn't looking, "would you like to go out tonight?" He asked as he kissed her cheek and wrapped his arms around her small frame.

"I actually made plans with the girls to go shopping. I'm sorry," she said.

"It's all good. Maybe another day. Meet me after class?"

"Sure, that would be nice," she softly said.

Arriving at the mats Rin could feel brown eyes staring at her. Looking in her peripheral vision, she saw Takahiro glaring at her. She could tell he wasn't happy that the half-demon had his hands around her waist. She ignored his odd behavior and turned her attention back to the Sensei. She had to admit, he was very good-looking. The black tank-top he wore accentuated his abs and well defined pecs. His neck was thick and his head was held proud. The pants fit loosely around his waist, but hugged all the right places leaving very little to the imagination.

"We're going to switch things up a bit and you'll be paired off with someone else to start today," he announced. "I want you to work on your form and your defense patterns."

She already knew who she was going to be put up against. She knew she could take him down easily.

"First pairing will be Rin and Takahiro," Sesshomaru said with a smirk so large across his face it wrinkled his nose and brightened his eyes.

Taking a relaxing deep breath, Rin maneuvered over toward the end of the mat, and bowed before the loser as she stepped on to the mats. "Freshman girl, I want to make a bet with you. If I win, you'll have to come on a date with me after class lets out," Takahiro boasted.

"Umm… no, I don't take bets. I've told you before, I already have a date. So shut up and prepare to have your ass handed to you," Rin taunted him. Looking in her side view she could see another smirk upon Sesshomaru's lips. She could tell he was enthused with her response.

Sesshomaru stood between both of them, "I want to see you two perform an osoto-gari," he announced.

With a smile on her lips she whispered, "so easy." She got into the proper stance holding onto the front of Takahiro's red t-shirt. The osoto-gari technique was a controlled body slam in which the first person to throw the other won. She did a quick look up and down his body to find his weak leg was positioned behind him and his stance was off by an inch, enough for her to roll him to the left.

"Haha, a little tiny girl like you can't pull off that type of move. I don't even think you're capable of anything you American freak."

"I'm going to make you eat those words," Rin said.

"Any more talking, Takahiro, and you'll be doing laps after class. Did your father not teach you proper etiquette?" Sesshomaru held a hand between the two of them. "Ready?... Fight!"

She moved her hands very fast, grabbing the collar of Takahiro's shirt, and the hem of his sleeve, with a small step to the side ready to use it to attack with. Her support leg went to the side. She was ready to aim Takahiro's body weight over his one leg. She swung her attacking leg past Takahiro's body and brought her attacking leg back very strongly as she swept out of the boy's weak leg. Then she miraculously kept control of the fall. When he hit the mat he let out a few unpleasant words. "Stupid bitch."

After taking a few breaths she giggled, jumping as she turned away in triumph, "I told you I would make you eat those words."

"I want a rematch!" He rose off the ground.

"You lost fairly," Sesshomaru moved between them, "back to the line."

"I said I want a rematch!" Takahiro protested more loudly.

"And I said move back to the line. Fifty laps, now, for defiance," Sesshomaru pointed to the outside ring of the dojo. "It will be another fifty if you don't move. Now."

"Bitch," he hissed at Rin as he left the match.

"One hundred laps, Takahiro, do you want to test my patience?" He whirled around and called next, "Dai and Inuyasha. The same thing."

Sesshomaru's eyes were on her throughout class and on the pathetic hanyou that kept following her around and immediately after class wrapped his sinuous arms around her small waist and kissed her lips. Then his lips found her neck, the spot where his teeth belonged, not some orange haired little upstart, who was lightly pecking and nipping at the skin of her neck. Forcing himself to remain against the far wall as the students cleared the dojo was like lifting dead weights. He wanted to walk over and break the damn hanyou's face in two with a sledge hammer. His heart started racing and his mouth started watering at the thought of his own mouth there while she moaned beneath him, begging him to pleasure her. Sure his senses called for other demonesses to pleasure, but Rin's innocence called to him more. He couldn't wait to defile her.

While his mind was lost in sensuous thoughts and imagining the smell of Japanese Cherry Blossoms mixing with his own musky smell and forming into something he would run his tongue across, he was brought out of the thoughts by a blood-curdling yell and then somehow Rin was straddling Takahiro. The sounds of bones crunching and the scent of blood boiling sent him dashing across the dojo to catch the wrist that she had been using to pummel his face over and over before she could land another blow.

She struggled against his grasp as he yanked her off Takahiro. The boy was covered in his own blood, nearly choking on it as it gushed from his nose. Thick rivers fled from his nostrils. "What the hell happened?" He hated relinquishing Rin to Dai's waiting arms. He was going to kick himself for that later, but as the Sensei, it was his prerogative to care for the wounded and this was the wrong student for her to lose control on.

Dai's arm circled Rin's waist. "Her hand is swelling. Sensei, do you have ice?"

"In my office, go," he motioned with his head to the back of the dojo.

"Come on, Rin. What the hell? Are you part Amazon Woman or something?"

She was deathly quiet, leading Sesshomaru to become worried. The rotten smell was returning to her skin. He shook himself free of the voice in his head telling him to let Takahiro bleed to death as he quickly tore the boy's shirt to staunch the flow. He helped him up and leaned the boy over and then said to the onlookers, "what happened?"

"He grabbed her butt," Roku answered, "and she slammed him on the mats, then lost it."

"I," Takahiro coughed, "did not! They're lying."

Inuyasha laughed, "serve you right, idiot. I saw it too."

"She'll pay for this!" Takahiro snarled as he forced himself off the ground.

"Inuyasha, take him to the nurse," he rose, wiping the blood off his hand onto his shirt. He had someone else to look at. Dai was leaning over Rin who sat in a chair in front of his desk in his office. He held a bag of ice over her swelling wrist. "You leave," he motioned with an upraised thumb over his shoulder. "Now."

"You'll be okay?" Dai touched her head and kissed her mouth. "You're sure."

"Yeah," her body shook from the adrenaline.

When the door to his office shut, Sesshomaru leaned against his desk, "what the hell was that? I said kick him in the groin or punch him in the face once, not break his nose so badly he'll need plastic surgery to fix it! Do you know how much trouble you will be in for this? You could be expelled!"

It was her flinching that brought him out of his fury. He forced his mind to calm and the fire in his heart to subside. She wasn't talking to him. Her eyes were downcast and her knuckles were bleeding. He wouldn't have been surprised if she had fractured her wrist.

"Let me see the hand," he knelt down in front of her. As soon as his hands touched her she jolted again, moving it away. "Rin?" She was a mess, her eyes were distant and her breathing staggered. Her ponytail was half falling out, leaving her hair mousy and tangled. He really, really wanted to comb it with his claws. Not now, not now, not now, he told himself. "Rin!" He clapped his palms together in front of her eyes.

She closed them and nearly bolted out of the chair, "what?"

"The hand," he held out his own hand for hers.

"It's fine," she muttered. "I need to go."

"Not before filing another incident report. You'll be a professional at this by the time the week is over."

"Sorry," she whimpered, still cradling her arm.

"The hand," he commanded her again. The scent of her blood was driving him up the wall. He examined her wrist carefully, squeezing lightly at the wrist, and had her hissing in pain. The skin on her knuckles had torn from the impact against Takahiro's nose, but he was relatively sure it wasn't broken. "You know I could fix this."

"It's okay," she exhaled. "I…" her body wavered to the right as her eyes slowly rolled into the back of her head.

He caught her and gave her a light shake, "you need to eat something. Adrenaline crash."

"I don't know if I can stand up," she said.

"Will you allow me to help you to your dorm?"

"Yeah," she allowed him to lift her up under the arms and support her around the waist. Her teeth started chattering and her heart began to race, her breathing became rapid as she tried to catch her breath. Tears came from her eyes as she leaned against his chest.

"Do you have anxiety?" He asked kindly, as they made it out of the dojo.

"Sometimes," she said quietly. "I can't breathe. Sesshomaru," she choked, gripping his shoulder. "I can't," she coughed, sputtering with more tears coming from her eyes. Her heart was beating much faster than it should for someone who wasn't really moving.

"Okay," he lifted her from under the legs and flew into the air, flying her to her dorm. He zoomed past students that didn't notice he was there then landed outside the door.

He rapped on the door for Koharu to answer it. "Is she okay?"

"She will be," he hefted her into the room and set her down on the bed, "do you have medicine for the panic attack?"

She shook her head.

"Should I call your boyfriend?"

She shook her head vehemently again, gripping his wrist. He touched her forehead slowly, smoothing her hair from her eyes, "it's just a panic attack. Nothing more," he smoothed the hair away from her cheek. It sent chills down his spine being in such close contact with her.

"Should I do something?" Koharu inquired.

He removed some money from his pocket, "go buy her some food from the cafeteria and something sweet," he sat down next to her on the bed and began rubbing her back. "What is it that haunts you so badly?"

"Nothing," she cried, covering her face. "It hurts," she held her chest. "I'm going to die."

"Breathe," his lips dipped near her ear to be sure she heard him, "breathe," he resumed rubbing circles around her back, "in… good and out," he gazed on as her chest rose and fell with his directions. "Again, in," her heartbeat began to decelerate, "and out. In," he said quietly, "and out."

When she finally stopped crying and her heartbeat stabilized, Koharu returned long enough to drop off a tray of food and then run back out the door with an embarrassed grin on her face. He opened the juice-box first and held the straw up to her lips, "drink."

She complied, "sorry you had to see me like this." She flexed the injured wrist flinching in pain. Some-how, he had come to lay down next to her with her back against his chest, their breathing synchronized. He dared not move for fear that the panic would come again.

"What happened?" He stroked the hair next to her ear. He wanted to kiss her neck so badly.

"I…" she swallowed. "Um…" her eyes closed again causing his concern to rise.

"You need to eat," he pulled the tray closer to her and pulled her upright, her back still against his chest. It shocked even him when she leaned back against him, arching her neck to the side in the most inviting way. He hoped she didn't feel what was going on in his pants.

"He grabbed my ass."

"And for that you shattered his nose?"

"I did?"

"I'm fairly certain he will need corrective surgery," he said with a chuckle. "What am I going to do with you? Do you know how much trouble you are going to get into?"

She fell forward with her hands over her eyes and started crying again. "I'm sorry," she sobbed. "I didn't mean to!"

He went back to rubbing her back, feeling the need to calm her inner turmoil. "You'll need to visit my father's office later today to fill out an incident report, when you feel up to it." He decided it was time to leave before he ended up in the hot seat for being too close to her again, but she did smell wonderful, even when she was distressed.

She grabbed at his wrist and shook her head, "stay for a little bit?" It was so pathetic hearing it come from her.

"Okay… as long as I'm not accused of sexual misconduct again."

"You were being a creepy stalker," she picked up some rice with her good hand.

"And what am I being now?" he whispered lowly against her ear, taking out her ponytail holder, he ran his claws through the strands and righted the messy tail.

"A friend?" her tone was unsure.

"I'd like to be friends," he smirked behind her ears. "Finish eating. My father will come looking for me soon."

"What's going to happen to me?"

"I expect a warning, but I have cameras in the dojo. Part of your enrollment package is consent to be filmed. I use it for the school montage for the end of the year tournament in Osaka. You should consider competing. You're very skilled."

"Maybe," she muttered over her melon slices.

"Takahiro is a leech," he leaned back, supporting his weight on one hand. "When the video implicates him, I'll simply threaten to release it on the school-website. His father will most likely back off and you'll be free to continue attending classes and not have to worry about suspension. His father is overly concerned with his image because next year is an election year. He tries to spin being the perfect family despite his son's obvious issues. Whatever this is Rin, I know you don't want me to pry, but would you consider seeing Lady Kikyo the school counselor?"

"I'm not crazy," her head shot up. "It's nothing. Why does anxiety have to be something?"

"I didn't say it was. I said perhaps if there is something causing this, there are people here to speak to. You cannot just pummel the other students in my dojo, even if they grab your backside."

"So now I'm to blame?"

"I didn't say that," he tried to backtrack quickly.

"It's so typical, blame the victim."

"I wasn't blaming you."

"So because I have a panic attack I'm crazy? Is that it?"

"You're putting words in my mouth."

"Just leave," she elbowed him in the stomach.

"I thought you wanted me to stay?"

"You're just like everyone else, you know that? A pompous, arrogant asshole! No wonder Kagura cheated on you! Get out!"

"You still owe me for being late."

"Whatever," she groaned, flexing her wrist again.

"Meet me at the coffee shop in the morning to discuss it," he said in a vain attempt to maintain some of his shattered pride. He rose quickly, already regretting being there when he found his father on the other side of the door.

"Sesshomaru?" His father said as he closed the door behind him with a knowing look on his face.

"Father," he said quietly as he trailed behind the elder demon with his hands in his pockets. Now it was time to put the fire out before it turned into an inferno.

Inside Toga's office was a man who looked to be in his mid 40's. His hair was salt and pepper and he had white skin and brown eyes. He was wearing an expensive suit most likely from the upper side of Tokyo where only the wealthiest families shopped. He gave both dog-demons a scalding look. "Mr. Toga, we have a serious issue that we have to talk about," he pressed in a scolding tone.

The two pure-blooded demons each took a seat across from the President of Japan, "I'm very well aware of what the issue is, Mr. Endo. Your son, Takahiro, grabbed a female student inappropriately. I could suspend or expel your son from campus for that. But I won't, I think the best thing for him is in-school suspension," he announced.

"That's absurd. Takahiro has to have reconstructive surgery to fix his nose. The girl who did this to him will pay. I want her to be expelled immediately! I will sue her and her family for this," he shouted loudly.

"Mmh, the girl's family could also sue your son for sexual misconduct. We have video evidence of him grabbing her butt," Toga had already seen the video. Inuyasha had shown it to him after the idiot Endo boy had been dropped off literally at the nurse's desk. "How would that look on your part with the re-election next year? The media would be all over you and your son. So I would rethink suing the girl."

"Video evidence isn't enough to prove my son grabbed the girl. I could say it was consensual," President Endo argued with his arms folded across his chest.

Sesshomaru burst out laughing covering his eyes, "seriously? You're going to say it was consensual when the video shows her slamming him and then pummeling his nose? All my students witnessed it. So watch what you say." It would feel marvelous to slaughter the idiot father for trying to justify his son's actions. He would have done it himself, but he had his own agenda to tend to. "Your son is banned from my class and dojo from here on out. If I catch him stepping one foot inside I'll get him for trespassing!"

"You can't do that! You gave permission that my son could change classes. My son is great at judo."

"I beg to differ. Your son got knocked off his feet in a matter of seconds by a girl half his size. I can show you the video! I could put the video up of what he did to the girl on the school website. Just think what would happen if everyone saw the video. It wouldn't look good on your part. You'll lose so many votes in the next election," Sesshomaru stretched to his full height. "That would be such a shame."

"I can't believe what I am hearing. This is absurd and uncalled for. Well, you won't be getting another donation from me ever again," he got up from the chair and the president stormed out of Toga's office.

After a few seconds Sesshomaru heard the outside door close and said, "what a complete ass that man is, father. I wished you would have expelled that bastard. If he ever touches her again…"

"You'll what? I thought you hated her?"

"I do," he flopped back into the chair. "I was just concerned for her as her sensei."

"Uh-huh," Toga covered his smile with his hand, "an in-school suspension would be better for him. I think he will be cleaning the toilets in the boys dormitory for a week. See how the other side lives for once in his privileged life. But we have another matter of discussion to talk about," Toga said.

"And that is?" Sesshomaru asked.

"Why were you in Rin's room? I thought you were told to keep your distance?" Toga questioned his eldest son.

"I wanted to make sure Rin was okay. She is my student after all. I could tell she wasn't herself and was incoherent after the incident. I told her to come here to write the complaint again," his ears and nose picked up that she had just walked inside the building.

"You are turning out like me, my son. I just hope you make the right decision in the next few weeks."

"We'll see how my heart chooses." He had made his choice, it was just a matter of time and he would be free.

Rin arrived at the main office and walked past a man who was very pissed off. He nearly collided with her on the way out. She had to jump out of the way, they both eyed each other for a few seconds, and Rin felt her heart skip a beat. The man she stared at for only a second flashed back in her memory from the movie set from two years ago. She shook her head to clear the memory of the past and headed for Toga's office. She could feel the man's eyes on her back. It made her skin crawl.

Standing before the office door she was going to knock when she heard, "come on in, Miss Rin!"

Opening up the door, Rin found Toga and also Sesshomaru standing by the window. "Good afternoon, headmaster Toga and sensei," she said. She did her best to pin Sesshomaru with the dirtiest look possible for what had happened in her room moments ago. She didn't understand why she had let him stay, or asked him either. He felt comforting and warm in those moments.

"How are you feeling? I heard what happened and I must apologize for what occurred," Toga said.

Rin came to stand before them. "I'm still a bit shook up, but I'll heal," she winced when she stretched her wrist out. She had wrapped it herself. Her knuckles had finally crusted over in scabs.

"That looks pretty terrible," Toga touched her wrist. "Did you see the nurse?"

"No… um he looked at it," she motioned at Sesshomaru, "and it's been broken before. It didn't feel like this. I must apologize, headmaster Toga. I didn't intend to hurt the creep. It caught me off guard and I guess I spaced out. How bad did I hurt him?"

"He'll need reconstructive surgery to fix the damage to his nose. His father planned on suing you."

Her eyes dilated like saucers.

"But," he held up a finger. "I told him your family would end up suing him in return for the assault," he said.

"How's your wrist?" Sesshomaru asked softly.

"Umm, it still kind of hurts, but I'll heal," she lightly held her wrist feeling a sting going through it. "I have a feeling I'll have to face a punishment? I'll take whatever I have to do," she announced.

"Yes, you will have to serve a punishment and it won't be that severe. You'll be required to help not only set up for the masquerade at the end of the month, but also clean up afterward. It will be held in the cafeteria. We'll need you to come early in the morning on the day of the party. I'd say about 5:30. You'll be required to sweep, mop and set up the tables," Toga announced.

The punishment was a cakewalk for Rin. She was used to helping her mother and the maids back home set up for parties. Her mother never wanted her to be spoiled. She always had chores growing up.

"If my memory serves me Rin, aren't you supposed to meet up with the girls to do some shopping?" Sesshomaru reminded her.

"Yes, would it be okay if I write my statement later, and bring it to you first thing tomorrow?" she asked Toga. "I'm kind of tired and it would be nice to do something fun."

"That will be no problem. Just enjoy your evening out. Here take this with you and fill it out when you can," Toga handed her the sheet from his desk, "and hopefully this will be the last one for a while."

"Thank you, you both have a good evening," she said, getting to her feet. Waving goodbye to them as she walked out of the office.

The girls found several dresses to try on. Rin found one in particular that she loved. It was a high-low dress in a navy-blue shade. At some point she texted Dai and he said he loved it. When she put it on, the short sleeves ended below the shoulders with a V-neck cut. It fit like a glove on her frame. The silk dress looked like liquid on her or it would if she could get it zipped. As she reached behind her, her wrist pinched, making it more difficult to close the dress. The bottom of the dress almost hit the floor, while the front of the dress ended at her knees. Before walking outside to show the girls, she looked at the price. The money would be no problem for her. Lifting the tag, the price was very reasonable of ¥10,807.38. "$99.00 is not bad at all."

"Rin, let's see the dress!" Kagome called out.

"Any chance someone can help me close it? I hurt my wrist earlier," she shrugged at her reflection.

"Hurt your wrist? Is that what you call beating that crap out of Takahiro?" Sango knocked on the door and joined her inside. She zipped the dress up, "last year he grabbed my ass. I nearly broke his right arm. That boy has no respect for anyone. Miroku might be a lech, but he never grabs the same ass twice."

That made Rin laugh.

"Koharu said Sesshomaru was in your room and you two looked very comfortable?" Sango turned her around. "This looks gorgeous on you! I can't wait for everyone to see."

"He was just helping me calm down," she argued, blushing a furious shade of red.

"Sure," Sango giggled as the door opened.

All the girl's mouths dropped. "Rin wow! The dress looks amazing on you. The color suits your skin tone so well," Koharu expressed. All the other girls agreed. "Are you feeling better? I heard what happened from Kohaku."

"Is everyone talking about it?" Rin rolled her eyes and went back into the dressing room. "I can't unzip this damn dress!"

"I'll help," Koharu came in this time and helped her undo the dress. "You didn't look good when he brought you to the room."

"I'm okay now. I just don't like getting my ass grabbed by someone like that," Rin stepped out of the dress and put her clothes back on. "Thank you girls. I'm going to buy it. Now to find a mask and heels to go with it."

"I suggest black heels Rin. There's a store not too far from here that sells really nice shoes and accessories. They always have masks in store when it comes to the school's parties," Kagome announced leading the way.

Rin was having a fun day out with the girls. Back home no girl in school wanted to hang with her and do anything, she was usually too quiet and distracted by her writing. Here she felt welcomed and was happy to be involved with fun activities. After purchasing the dress the girls headed back out to do more shopping and soon have dinner.

His alarm went off at five o'clock. He had things to do, the first was meeting with his brother while going for a run and then doing some research. They met just outside the undergrad dorms. Inuyasha wore red pants and a white tank-top, while Sesshomaru wore all black again. He really did have other clothes to wear but these were the most comfortable for teaching in and he didn't do much fancy anything else. They hit their fists together as they met and began running. "Is anyone else awake?" Sesshomaru asked his little brother.

"No. You know undergrads," Inuyasha laughed as he kept up with his brother.

"Good," he said, searching around them just in case, "have you found anything?"

"Not yet. If that man is anything, it's careful."

"Dammit," Sesshomaru huffed. "I haven't either.

"We aren't on a timeline though, Sesshomaru. Patience, they'll screw up."

"It better be before something happens to her. He's showing too much of an interest in Rin."

"So you're going to take her then?"

"Why would I want children that look like you?" He pinched his brother's cat ears.

"Suit yourself," Inuyasha laughed. "You're right though. The last girl he showed this much interest in has been missing for two years."

A few hours later, he sat at the local coffee shop, reading the morning newspaper, while drinking a cup of hot tea. He had no idea why he had told Rin to meet him or what her punishment would be. So he waited for her to come in. She had missed warming up at the dojo again and he wondered if what had happened with Takahiro had set her off and she wouldn't come. She came in dressed in a plain yellow sundress with a white knitted top on. Her hair was tied back in a high bun. She waved at him shyly then went to order her own drink. She got a French vanilla latte and two dorayaki. She brought it over and sat down across from him at the booth. "Hi," she said. Her wrist was still wrapped.

"Does it still hurt?"

"I think it's sprained," she hissed, flexing her hand. "And my knuckles are so sore."

"You weren't at the dojo this morning."

"I was tired," she sipped her hot drink. She was happy to have something that wasn't pumpkin spice.

He nodded, avoiding asking after her emotions.

"So? What do I have to do? For being late? Isn't meeting at a coffee shop kind of overboard?"

He shrugged. It was and he didn't care. "I would have met you at the dojo, but you decided to shatter Takahiro's nose making more work for me."

She rolled her eyes. "I already said I was sorry. You don't have to rub it in."

"Fair enough," he drank more of his black tea. "Usually I make my students run laps, many of them, but I get the feeling you would enjoy that. Therefore, I think you will train extra with me."

"No," she shook her head firmly. "I'm fine sparring with other people, but…"

"Okay."

"But… if you want to help me get better at something, I could use help with math."

"I thought you were good at that?"

"In English," she sighed leaning against the back of the booth. "We got a bunch of word problems in Japanese and I spent four hours last night going through one. They're due in two hours." Her face fell against the table. When she looked up, he finally saw the black circles around her eyes.

He had a sudden urge to take her back to her bed and allow her to curl against him like she had done so briefly during the panic attack. "I can help you. So for a week, you will study math with me and… don't be late again. Did you bring it with you?"

"Yeah, it's in my bag," she yawned, pulling her book and notebook out. "I'm going to fail this class."

"At least it's not writing," he tried to assuage her nerves.

"Shit! I was so busy doing the stupid problem I forgot to write the poem for Izayoi!" She flopped on top of the table, nearly hitting him in the face with her hands.

He couldn't resist her swollen knuckles any longer. He reached a hand to hers and pulled her hand up to his lips, "may I?"

"Why?"

"To heal them."

Her skin prickled around his mouth.

"I… okay, just don't take it as an invitation to start stalking me again."

"Of course not," he laughed against her knuckles. He let his tongue dip into the gashes on her first knuckle, suckling lightly to get the scabs loose so his saliva could get into the injury. Her skin warmed in his mouth. He licked it firmly as he moved to the next knuckled flicking it in his tongue, then the next, and the next. She was nearly panting as he held her hand, her hand broke out in a sweat, and he felt himself get hard. He finished the knuckle over her pinky, "there." He held her hand just a minute longer. "It should heal faster now."

"Thanks," she whispered, passing him the book. "It's this page."

Two Weeks Later

Early in the morning, Rin helped the other students set up the decorations, flower arrangements, and streamers for the masquerade that was later in the evening. It was actually fun that she got to see the decorations before the other students. The colors that were strewn around the huge room were in black, gold, and silver. It looked a lot better than how her prom looked early in high school before she graduated. Her wrist was already starting to feel better and was less sore. She and Dai were supposed to meet after she finished decorating, but for some strange reason he wasn't returning her texts. She called him and left a quick message to call her back.

Later that afternoon, she made an appointment to have her hair, and nails done. The girls even tagged along as well. The stylist put her hair in a half-up/half-down, with many large curls. Her manicure and pedicure were all done in a clear coat, with a white tip.

Arriving back at the dormitories, Rin and Koharu walked inside and headed for the elevators. But a voice called out for her, "hey Rin, you have a package." She turned around to see it was the resident advisor Shippo of the freshman dorms.

She picked up the box. "Thank you, Shippo," she kindly said to the young fox demon. Looking at the large size package she saw it was from her parents. Inside her dorm she sat on her bed and opened it. It contained some girly hygiene items that she loved and some new clothes for the fall. At the very bottom was a jewelry bag from Tiffany's. Opening the first box was two dangle diamond earrings. The second box contained a thin diamond chain bracelet. She also found a note.

To our darling Rin,

We heard that you're having a masquerade dance and we wanted to send you something special. I know you don't like us spoiling you with jewelry, but we couldn't help it. These pieces of jewelry would look lovely with the dress you bought the other week. Take lots of pictures my darling and have an amazing time. Can't wait to see you this thanksgiving. We love and miss you every day and we are counting down the days when you fly back home. Keep smiling every day and don't let anything hold you back.

Love,

Mom and dad

Thankfully she hadn't put on her makeup yet or it would have been ruined by now. She realized she caught Koharu's attention, "Rin, is everything okay?" she asked, concerned. She took a seat next to her friend on the bed.

"Yes, I just got a few things from my parents. It's getting easier every day knowing I'm over 7,000 miles from home. Ahh, I'm going to be a wreck if I don't stop crying," she jokingly said.

"Aww, but you'll be seeing them soon, right?"

"Yes, around thanksgiving, I fly out that Monday. But anyways, we should finish getting ready. The boys said they were picking us up in an hour."

Sesshomaru and Toga headed out to meet with the counsel so he could finalize his decision about Rin. He already knew he was making the right choice for himself. "Sesshomaru, are you sure you're making the right decision?" Toga asked.

Sesshomaru didn't tell his father what his decision was, but he knew when he woke up that morning. "Yes father, I know I'm making the best decision for myself and my future. I know there's no turning back now. Let's get this over with, we do have a dance to monitor."

"Of course, Sesshomaru, remember I'll support whatever choice you make," Toga announced.

Both eyeing each other, Toga knocked on the door, "come on in Toga and Sesshomaru."

The dance was in full swing. Rin was enjoying dancing with Dai, even though he was acting normal, they'd barely spoken that day. She could tell something was off with him. It was his and Roku's twentieth birthday and she remembered to wish them both a happy birthday early that day. Though they were grateful for it, Dai was quiet, and distant. After the jamming song ended, they both stepped off to the side to catch their breath. They got a drink of fruit punch and stepped off to the side next to a group of three girls. They all had black hair and were wearing matching white dresses with black and white masks. Dai's eyes seemed almost glued to one of them.

Rin lightly tapped Dai on the shoulder, "do you want to dance with her?" Even though deep inside she had a feeling there was more and Dai liked the girl. That thought stung a little.

"Do you mind? It will only be a few minutes," he said, barely waiting for her response.

She lightly nodded her head "sure," and watched him walk up to the girl with long black curly hair who was named Ayumi. She watched Dai tap on the girl's shoulder who was shocked to see him. Even though the music was loud she could see him asking her to dance. Dai and Ayumi take each other's hands, just as a slow song comes on. They both headed for the dance floor and danced intimately wrapped in each other's arms. She hadn't yet had a slow dance with him and had to slap her face to keep from tearing up. When the one slow dance ended another began and Dai was still dancing with Ayumi, and Rin started to feel sad. They leaned into each other and suddenly started kissing. She was about to run out of the dance when her heart skipped a beat and she felt like she was going to cry when suddenly she heard, "may I have this dance?" a male voice asked.

Turning in the direction of the voice, she saw a very tall man with long silver hair braided down his back. He wore a black mask over his golden eyes. His skin was paler than hers. He wore a navy blue button up shirt with a black blazer over it, along with matching black dress pants and black dress shoes.

Coming out of her thoughts, she noticed he was holding out a clawed hand. She could tell he was a demon and was unsure who he was. He had a very handsome build. Hesitating for a second she said, "sure." Why not? Dai was enjoying himself with someone else.

She set her hand in his and they walked onto the dance floor. A third slow song came on and they both started slowly dancing to the music. Her hands were wrapped around his shoulder while his hands were at her waist. "Who are you?" she asked curiously. His face was obscured by a black mask that covered the upper half of his face. There were no markings to speak of to use to identify the stranger.

"I cannot tell you, but you'll find out when the time comes later," he said and pulled her closer to his chest.

"Have we ever met?" She was trying to remember all the demons on campus that had his hair, eye color, and skin tone, but there were too many, and she was too lost in the slow-song to think straight.

"You have. I think I know what your next question will be, and yes I know exactly who you are. I have one thing to say," he said looking down at her.

"What's that?" she asked, mesmerized by the mouth that was inching closer to hers.

"You look absolutely beautiful this evening."

Without warning her chin was lifted up to the mysterious man's lips. He suddenly leaned in and placed his lips upon hers. Her heart skipped a beat once again. She had no idea who this guy was and he was suddenly kissing her! She didn't know what to do, but the warmth of his lips felt amazing. She breathed in his fire. She closed her eyes and leaned her lips against his. His arms grew tighter holding Rin more into his chest. She gripped the sleeves of his blazer, suddenly feeling warm and whole.

Breaking for air, they both opened their eyes, and gave each other a soft expression. The mysterious demon lifted his clawed hand and traced her plump soft lips.

"Who are you?" she asked, against his pointer finger.

Instead of saying who he was, he stuck his hand into his black blazer and pulled out a piece of paper. He placed it into her hand and kissed her lips one more time and then disappeared into the crowd of students.

Dai had somehow found himself next to her. "Rin," he softly said. She turned around to see him with a sad expression, "Rin, I'm… I'm sorry for what happened. I realized that… that," he couldn't get the words out.

"We're not meant to be together?" Her eyes were lost in the crowd. She wanted to look at the card in her hand.

"Yes, it's not because of your scent. It's because of my sight. Being a leopard demon, we see our future mates with our eyes. Unfortunately, my eyes didn't call for you. I was hoping they would. This morning at the dojo I caught sight of the girl that was meant to be mine," looking back, Ayumi was blushing from head to toe and talking with her girlfriends. "I think it would be best if we just remain friends, if you're okay with that?"

Closing her eyes she knew it would be best if they did remain friends. She felt a strong connection to the mysterious man, more than the connection she and Dai shared. Opening up her eyes she said, "of course." Embracing each other very quickly, Dai left to be with the girl that was meant to be his mate.

She had to avoid breaking into tears. Just because they weren't meant to be didn't mean the suddenness of it didn't hurt. Watching them leave together she remembered the piece of paper in her hand. She opened it to find a short letter.

If you want to know who I am, meet me at the dragon farm. I'll be waiting with one of the dragons.

Taking a deep breath Rin headed for the front doors to meet the mysterious demon who had kissed her. She was caught by the arm as she was about to leave by the headmaster, "I believe we agreed you would clean up?"

"But?"

"I did, didn't I?"

"Can it wait a few minutes? Or a half hour?"

"Time waits for no man or woman," he waved his hand in the air.

"Please?"

"We made an arrangement, Miss Campbell."

She sighed, returning to the dance alone half elated, and half sad that she would spend the rest of the night alone, until she finished cleaning.