The only requirement for the announcement was wearing Sesshoumaru's crest. Kagome expected a pin for her hair or something sewed into her clothing.
She was also expecting red.
So, when her mother showed up carrying a bundle of violet silk, Kagome looked between her and Sesshoumaru in confusion.
"It is to represent our union," Sesshoumaru supplied, removing the top layer for himself.
"But this was supposed to be about your return," she said.
"It is meant as a celebration," he contradicted. "They will be more interested in the mysterious woman who has captured the prince's heart than his supposed return from battle. Again." He left the room, her mother silencing any more protests with a soft smile before helping her into the complicated outfit.
"This seems like a lot," Kagome said, unable to sit down once she'd finished.
"I'm sure Sesshoumaru will help you out of it after, dear."
"Mama!"
Emiko chuckled, pulling Kagome's hair over her shoulders but leaving it loose. "Am I wrong?"
She flushed but kept her head straight, managing to meet her mother's gaze in the mirror. "Probably not."
Emiko clicked her tongue. "And you thought to contradict your mother? What a shameful daughter you are." Kagome snorted before they dissolved into laughter, Emiko holding her up to keep the silk from wrinkling.
"It's wonderful to see you happy."
Kagome turned, clasping their hands together. "I was happy before, Mama."
"Not like this. You were content, but not happy. There's a difference." Dark eyes filled with tears, and they reached for each other simultaneously, shoulders shaking but smiles wide.
Emiko eventually pulled back, wiping her face. "I'm glad I'm not the one in that dress," she said, fixing Kagome's collar. "I'd be a blubbering mess."
Kagome let out a warbled chuckle, then pointed to her hair. "Ready for the last part?"
Emiko shook her head, then motioned to the doorway, Sesshoumaru looking devastating in his formalwear, a sprig of rose blossoms held between his claws.