CHAPTER FIVE
While winter at the palace was beautiful in its own right, it was
spring that had to be Rin's favorite time of year. She took a particular interest in watching the world renew itself. The Lady of the West had been true to her word. Her ladies did inform her of her pending biological changes. And, when that faithful morning did arrive and Rin found herself saturated in her own blood, she was not shocked but more filled with pride. She was finally becoming a woman. With her new found knowledge, Rin made every effort to be more 'lady like' but she never lost her ability to laugh and be rough and tumble when she felt the urge.
Since Sesshomaru never knew Rin's true birthday, it was decided that it would be celebrated on the first day of spring. Rin was pleasantly surprised when the entire court gave a banquet in her honor (at Sesshomaru's prompting of course!). Rin's feminine features were beginning to make themselves more prominent. Her curves were becoming more noticeable and the plump features of her face were beginning to find angles. More young male youkai of the court started to pay attention to her. And, while no one would dare to mention for fear of their lives, Rin was turning into quite a beauty. It was becoming increasingly difficult even for Sesshomaru to keep his eyes off of his ward.
While Sesshomaru busied himself with affairs of state and his pending trip, Rin busied herself with her studies. In addition to writing, speech, music and history, Sesshomaru insisted that Rin be taught the basics of self defense.
While there would be an entire castle to come to her defense if the need presented itself, he still wanted Rin to know how to defend herself. Many evenings he would find the girl diligently practicing her stances and defense moves in the gardens of the inner court. Sesshomaru was not quite sure exactly which he enjoyed more; her tireless devotion to the art or just how lovely her body filled out that practice ghee.
Spring was in the middle of its second month when a courier finally arrived with a letter. His mother would be coming at the end of the month.
Sesshomaru wrinkled his brow as he rolled up the scroll. Time was running out and he had yet to tell Rin of his impending plans. While he knew her input had little bearing on the matter, he still felt that she was entitled to know what was going on bearing in mind that the trip was being made for her sake. He had dawdled enough. He would find her this evening and tell
her of his forthcoming trip.
Sesshomaru sent word through Jaken that he wanted to see Rin directly after dinner. The toad dutifully went to Rin's rooms shortly before the evening meal with the message. Rin had changed for dinner and was relaxing a bit when Jaken came in.
"Lord Sesshomaru wants you to come to his study after dinner Rin."
Rin was ecstatic that her lord wished to speak to her but she was a bit apprehensive.
"My martial arts training is after dinner." she said with some hesitancy. "Let the teacher wait!" Jaken squawked with no small amount of annoyance. "Sesshomaru desires your presence, that takes priority!"
"Yes Master Jaken." Rin responded quietly. Jaken softened his tone a bit and approached the girl placing his hand on her shoulder. "I'll inform your teachers that you will be late."
Rin smiled brightly. "Thank you Master Jaken! The toad demon huffed a bit before giving a small smile as he left Rin's quarters.
Dinner went on as usual without incident. Although Rin had noticed that Sesshomaru seemed to continue looking at her through out. It seemed that each time she took a small look at him, he was in turn looking at her. Rin was both happy and nervous at the same time as she flushed pink with each gaze turned in her direction.
Sesshomaru did not rise from his place until he was sure that Rin had finished eating. He knew that the girl would no doubt immediately come to him if he had left before she had finished and he wanted to know that she had indeed had her fill.
Rin excused herself shortly after Sesshomaru's departure from the hall but she did not go directly to his study.
Instead, she returned to her rooms and changed into her practice ghee. While she may have had no idea what Sesshomaru may have wanted from her, she did know that she had lessons that would immediately follow. And her teacher was not fond of tardiness.
A gentle knock came to the door of Sesshomaru's study followed by the familiar baritone voice allowing entry. Sesshomaru was facing his entrance to the inner gardens and had not noticed Rin's attire until he turned to address her. The look on his face must have been priceless as Rin had to struggle not to giggle at his raised eyebrow. Sesshomaru stared for some time making Rin just the slightest bit uncomfortable. "I have training to go to my lord. My teacher gets very irate when I am tardy." She said weakly.
A ghost of a smile crossed the demon lords face. "I'm pleased to see you so focused on your studies." Sesshomaru then extended his hand as he stepped through the garden entrance. "Come."
It had been some time since Rin and Sesshomaru had stood so close to one another and longer still since Sesshomaru had ever offered his hand to her for any reason. Rin smiled brightly as she entwined her fingers with his and stepped into the garden. She was hoping that the demon lord would not hear her pounding heartbeat as she walked with him. Neither spoke but it was evident that Sesshomaru had a destination in mind. They soon found themselves at the stables where Ah-Un stood saddled and waiting.
The great dragon knelt down and Sesshomaru mounted first. His face held no expression as he helped Rin up to sit in front of him, but is eyes looked on her lovingly. Sesshomaru then grabbed the reigns as he pulled Rin close. They were airborne within minutes.
Rin was elated! It had been months since she had ridden on Ah-Un and Sesshomaru had not ridden with her since she was a child. When they were high enough in the sky, and far enough away from view, Rin dispensed with court formality. As Sesshomaru held her close, she extended her arms to the heavens, and began to sing the song she had made up for her lord long ago.
Deep in the mountains, deep in the forest
Deep in the winds, deep in my dreams
Lord Sesshomaru where are you?
Rin was about to continue when she thought she had heard an echo. Sesshomaru was singing with her!
Master Jaken is waiting for you too…
Sesshomaru's baritone sounded over Rin's soprano
I'm so glad you're near waiting as you do
Lady Rin how I love you.
Sesshomaru nuzzled his head to rest on Rin's shoulder. And while he may not have been able to see it, he could feel her smile and smell her tears of joy. Rin gently rested her hand on Sesshomaru's cheek and cuddled into him in return as he purred contentedly.
The last vestiges of twilight had passed and night had finally blanketed the sky. An amber moon was making itself comfortable among a blanket of stars. Silently, the great dragon landed on a grassy plateau some distance from the palace.
Sesshomaru dismounted first then gently lifted Rin to the ground. He took her hand again, and quietly led her to the edge of the plateau and, for a time they just stared at the moon. Sesshomaru was never one for words. Rin knew this. She knew he wanted to tell her something, she'd just have to wait for him to get it out. Sesshomaru lightly ran his thumb across the back of Rin's hand. He looked ahead before speaking.
"I will be leaving soon. My mother and I must travel further to the west."
Rin turned to face the tiayoukai not releasing his hand. "You owe me no explanation my lord. I have suspected that you were preparing for a trip for some time now."
Sesshomaru turned and stared at Rin intensely. He wondered how it was that in all of his court, this human could know him so well.
"I would ask to come with you, Rin continued, bowing her head slightly, "But it may be best for me to stay here." Sesshomaru released Rin's hand and stepped closer to her. "My mother's opinion on anything is not mine. Please remember that."
"This trip is being made for both of our benefit. I need to know what is happening to you. I need to know….that you're alright." Sesshomaru's voice trailed off as he sighed quietly. Sesshomaru tried starting again sighing audibly this time, incapable of forming his sentence. Rin smiled as she came closer slowly taking the demon lord's face in both of her hands.
"It's alright my lord." She began softly, Rin licked at her dry lips before continuing. She had never directly voiced her feelings before and was not sure how they would be received even now. But, for the good or the ill, she felt that they needed to be said. Sesshomaru needed to clearly understand her feelings regardless of the consequences. Rin squared her shoulders and took a deep breath.
" You are my world and I love you with my whole heart. I always have and I always will." Rin started to tremble. It was a great relief to have finally found the courage to speak her heart. "What ever the outcome of this trip, please remember that." Sesshomaru's eyes sparkled at her declaration. It made the true reason for this moment easier for him. He then nuzzled his face into Rin's palms.
Placing his hands over Rins, Sesshomaru slowly pulled them from his face to kiss her palms. Her words had brought a visible relief to him. Gods she is so beautiful! He thought. He desperately wanted to kiss her but decided against it. If I taste of her now, I will want more. This is not the time.. But soon beloved. Very soon.
Rin smiled still looking up into Sesshomaru's face. "How long must I be without you?"
Sesshomaru looked away from the girl's intense gaze. "I do not know."
Rin slowly let her hands drift down slowly to Sesshomaru's shoulders.
"It doesn't matter, she said smiling, I will be here when you return."
"Sesshomaru looked deeply into Rin's eyes surprised that she did not shy away as she normally would. He then placed his hand on the collar of her Ghee and started to fumble with the neckline..
"I have something I wish to give you …if you choose to accept it." Sesshomaru barely spoke above a whisper. Rin had yet to look away from the taiyoukai but now she wouldn't if she could. There was something different in Sesshomaru's eyes at this moment - it almost looked like fear.
Rin's looked questioningly as Sesshomaru continued.
"Do you know what it is to be marked Rin?"
Rin's eyes grew wide .
"Yes my lord I do. She said softly. "It is when a youkai male bites his intended marking her as taken. No other may touch her - she is his alone." Not taking his gaze from the girl, Sesshomaru continued fidgeting at the neckline of Rin's Ghee.
"Will you…. Will you accept my mark?" He said hesitantly, "I will understand …if it is not your wish." Sesshomaru looked away visibly uncomfortable as he waited for Rin's response.
Rin beamed as she gently pulled his face to her. Looking into his eyes with so much love, she did not bother to mask her tears. "Yes". She said softly.
Sesshomaru moved one of his hands to hold her cheek. And, for the first time that she could ever recall, Sesshomaru smiled a true smile at her. One meant for her eyes alone. He was almost amused at how this small human female held so much power over him. She truly was his everything.
Sesshomaru gently pulled at the collar of Rin's ghee exposing her throat as she obligingly released her hold of his face and tilted her head for his better access. A low growl came from Sesshomaru's throat as he pulled Rin close and licked at her throat. He then scraped his fangs along her neckline. By the god's she tastes sweet! He thought.
Rin shuttered from the contact as she softly sighed into Sesshomaru's embrace. She was overjoyed! Her lord had chosen her and she was to wear the irrefutable proof of his love. Rin started to tremble in anticipation.
"Do not be afraid beloved." He breathed soothingly into the side of her neck, Rin smiled at the term of endearment and responded with a soft moan that almost rendered Sesshomaru incapable of controlling himself. His mother was right. He loved her and he wanted her to know it. He wanted her to have a constant reminder of that love in his absence.
Rin pulled even closer as she tugged at his haori exposing his throat as she started licking his neck. Sesshomaru almost came undone by the sensation. Did she intend to mark him as well? He wondered. If so, he would allow it. He would allow her anything.
For a time, they both seemed content to nuzzle into the neck of the other. But Sesshomaru knew that this could not continue. It would be too easy to do something dishonorable to both of them.
Sesshomaru suddenly stopped.
"Mine." he said through clenched teeth before sinking his fangs deep into Rin's neck. Rin began to tremble as she felt what could only be described as a shock of electricity flow through her. At that very moment, Rin seemed to be experiencing another "change". She let out a small growl of her own before instinctively taking her cue to do the same to Sesshomaru's neck.
"Forever" she said softly before sinking her teeth. Sesshomaru's breath hitched. He trembled slightly as he held her fiercely. Each clung to the other as both blood and youkai flowed between them.
It was Rin who released Sesshomaru's neck first. She licked at the blood that her wound had caused astonished with her own acceptance of such an act. She had tasted of her lord's blood for the first time and further surprised herself with how flavorful Sesshomaru's blood was.
As Sesshomaru released Rin's neck and went to lick the blood from the wound he had inflicted, he too felt surprise. He had expected for Rin to have given a "tentative" nibble not a true "mate mark".
His Rin had claimed him. Sesshomaru smiled into Rin's neck.
He belonged to her - no matter what.
And he would have it no other way.
"We need to return to the palace." Rin suggested. "In a moment." Sesshomaru said as he slowly released his hold on Rin. Both were still trembling. Sesshomaru did not bother to hide any pretense of his present emotional state. For the first time in his many years of life, he was absolutely happy. If he were of a different temperament, he would be jumping for joy right now.
Their commitment to each other had been sealed. As each adjusted the others collar, a quiet contentment seemed to pass between them. Neither spoke another word as they both headed to Ah-Un and the ride back to the palace . Sesshomaru sat humbled. Never had this sacred ritual been shared with a human, and absolutely never had the mark been given in turn by the female.
The Lady Of the West arrived three days later.
Palace life continued at its regular pace. There had been a banquet in The Lady's honor and much fanfare abut the up coming trip that she and her son were to make. Sesshomaru personally paid little attention to the fuss.
It became fairly apparent that The Lady was not accustomed to outdoor trips. She had brought ten of her elite guard, and ten "regular" servants for cooking and setting up her tents and rest area. Now this bodily expanse was far more than Sesshomaru had bargained for!
It was on the afternoon of the eve of their departure that Sesshomaru found himself discussing his mother's present travel arrangements with her. The flower gardens were in full bloom as he and his mother took the afternoon to stroll and talk.
"Mother, is all of this really necessary?" he inquired as they leisurely strolled the gardens.
The Lady Of The West casually grabbed hold of her son's arm and gestured widely. "All of what my son? Just because you are content to sleep in the dirt among the insects and the filth does not mean that you will find me as willing to do the same!" Sesshomaru just grimaced to himself. Neither youkai was paying any real attention to the direction of their stroll when they had chanced upon Rin and her martial arts teacher in an open courtyard.
Rin had advanced quickly with her use of the naginata and her teacher thought to take the opportunity to test her with other opponents.
Both youkai watched as she was about to engage herself with a rather large sparring partner.
Sesshomaru kept his normal stoic expression but was inwardly terrified for Rin. She was human after all and may not fair so well against demon strength. The Lady of the West however, had taken keen interest in the lesson. She watched grinning with fangs bared at the girl.
She will not pass this lesson." She hissed almost menacingly. Sesshomaru did not miss the malice laced in his mother's statement. "She may surprise you mother." he said flatly. "Feh!" huffed The Lady. They both stood in silence as the match began. "Kami, if you listen to my kind, please give my beloved strength" Sesshomaru thought.
Rin was too focused on her lesson to pay much attention to anything else. She inadvertently had ignored both taiyukai as her eyes focused totally on her opponent and her teachers voice.
"Begin!" Came the growled command.
Weapons were clashing almost instantly. Rin's sparring partner may have been larger, but Rin had speed on her side as she dodged every attack sent her way. Suddenly, her opponent lunged and Rin was down on the ground. For all intent the match appeared to be over. That is until Rin took advantage of an open spot the sent her partner to the ground with a mighty thud. She was on him in seconds, naginata poised at his throat. Sesshomaru inwardly smiled. The Lady of The West however, was exasperated. She stepped up to the instructor and let her displeasure be known.
"And what kind of test was that?" She all but roared. "Your man was clearly sloppy!" This was no challenge at all! Give me a moment, I wish to see a real challenge set up for the girl!" With that, The Lady was gone in a cloud of youkai.
All stood in silence waiting for Sesshomaru to speak but before he could so much as draw his next breath, his mother had returned flanked by two of her elite guard!
"Let us try this lesson again." she said with authority.
"Mother, this is not necessary." Sesshomaru stated with no small amount of irritation. "Yes it is!" Came the curt reply. "I wish to see what the girl is truly made of! It is not an unreasonable request - for a youkai." The Lady then turned a cold eye to Rin.
With the exception of one set of eyes, all looked to Sesshomaru. Rin however, looked to her teacher.
Rin's teacher was a demon that had seen many battles. He had taught many of Sesshomaru's soldiers the arts of war. And, while at first he was resentful of teaching the ningen anything, he found her to be a quick study and eager to learn. Her teacher said nothing, but the look in his eyes was clear - You can do this. Rin's eyes smiled back as she braced herself against her weapon and waited for Sesshomaru's final word.
Sesshomaru hated when his mother cornered him. If he said no, it would look as if he were weak in the face of his mother's insistence. If he agreed, he ran the risk of Rin getting seriously injured and he would not be able to stop his trip to see to her.
It was Rin who took the decision from him.
"I will do as your Honored Mother requests." She said softly. The Lady laughed none too pleasantly "I'll give you credit for your spirit girl!." The Lady cocked her head at Rin and smiled a sinister smile.
"Let us make this interesting," She purred. Whoever is able to draw first blood, gets her wish granted."
"Enough Mother!" came Sesshomaru's barked order. The Lady swung around to regard her son. "What's wrong Sesshomaru, Have you no stomach for an honorable bet?"
"I have plenty of stomach for an honorable bet mother."
"Then it is settled", Quipped The Lady. "Let us truly see what it is that your ward is made of." The Lady motioned for one of her guardsmen to engage Rin in combat.
Sesshomaru was livid. His mother had successfully backed him into a corner. He had no choice but to stand by and hope for the best.
A very youthful looking demon came to face Rin. Unlike her sparring partner, he was smaller and possibly lighter on his feet. Rin would have to be careful with this one. Both opponents bowed and took a stance. The guardsman moved with an almost alarming speed. Had he not sighed as if he were board, Rin would have never sensed the blow coming and the contest would have been over just that quick. This one was fast, but also over confident. "You are no match for me." he growled as he swung his weapon over head. "I go through this farce to appease Milady. You are a waste of my time."
With this insult, Rin got angry. She was battling for her honor, the honor of her teacher and, to a small degree she fought for the sake of her humanity. How dare this guard make light of her!
Sesshomaru was visibly tense. He did not want this for Rin. He did not wish for her to be insulted and humiliated. His mother had gone too far. But just as he was about to put a stop to the fight, he noticed Rin undergoing yet another "change". He had witnessed Rin's potential power before but it only seemed to rise up during moments of emotional stress or when someone she cared for was threatened.
He looked at Rin closely. For the first time that he could ever recall, Rin was angry - really angry. His mother may have noticed but he doubted it. She was more into the act of humiliation to take note.
Sesshomaru relaxed slightly. He had witnessed Rin's powers before and knew that they normally presented themselves when her emotions overtook her. At this moment her anger would be her greatest strength.
The guardsmen had not noticed Rin's change. He was busy enjoying himself "toying" with her. So far, he had given simple attacks and was defending himself with ease. Rin had begun to tire. The guardsman looked at her with distain.
"I will show you some kindness ningen', he growled, Because you are pleasant to the eye, I will leave your wound somewhere where it will not be easily seen." Having offered up his warning, the demon leapt into the air with his weapon, fully intending to send Rin crashing to the ground. However, Rin was faster. It was as if she had demonic speed as she spun around deflecting the intended blow.. The move visibly surprised the guard.
"You first have to strike me lord." She said through clenched teeth. Rin's eyes now had a distinctly 'feral' look to them as she took the lead in the match. She now possessed both demonic strength and speed as she whirled around striking at her opponent causing him to loose hold of his weapon.
The guardsman stood in shock. Unsure weather to proceeded, he looked to the Lady of The West. "Why do you look at me? She hissed, "Finish her!"
The guard slowly turned his attentions once again to Rin.
"Does my weapon bother you?" she said with an almost seductive growl, "I will be rid of it then." Rin casually tossed the naginata to the side and took a defensive stance.
It was only now that both the guard and The Lady, took notice to Rin's changed appearance. Clawed hands held their stance. Golden eyes looked upon their opponent as a smile with fangs met them both. Rin then made a 'beckoning' motion with both of her hands. The guard, angered by her audacity, blindly lunged forward and grabbed Rin by her waist pinning one of her hands beneath his grip. "Break free wench!" the guard shouted. "I do not need to." Rin hissed. And, with her free hand, she swiped her claws across the demon's face. Shocked again, the guard howled in pain as he released her.
Rin backed away from her opponent and looked to The Lady.
"First blood is mine." She said as she panted for breath and struggled to compose herself.
The Lady of the West had been beaten.
Her guard was on his knees holding a badly bleeding facial wound as Rin reverted back to a more 'human' appearance. Rin then turned to her opponent. "You fought well, I thank you for sparring with me." She then turned to her teacher. There was no need to speak - his pride in his pupil was evident. Rin gave a small smile and bowed. Rin then turned to face Sesshomaru and his mother.
"Thank you for a challenging match Honored Mother." Rin bowed and was about to leave when The Lady spoke. "You won. What is your wish?" Rin stopped and regarded the taiyoukai. "My wish has been granted Honored Mother - I survived." The Lady of The West was not about to be further embarrassed. "You know what I refer to girl, tell me what you want!" came the shouted response.
Rin sighed audibly before looking to Sesshomaru. His face gave no indication of emotion. "Very well," Rin said evenly. "The members of your elite guard that you have here, now belong to me."
"WHAT??" Roared The Lady totally exasperated.
"And because I know that they will not serve a ningen, Rin continued, and I belong to your son, they are his to command." Rin then bowed to both taiyoukai. "Now, if you both will excuse me, I must clean up before my lessons with Master Jaken. Rin then took her leave.
Dumbfounded and out done, The Lady had no choice but to acquiesce. She had to honor her bet. It took everything in Sesshomaru's power not to laugh outright.
That evening, The Lady of The West sent out several couriers. She was first in need of new guardsmen and she had the matter of a small human to take car of. She growled to herself as she relived the humiliation of the afternoon.
That little bitch! By the hounds of hell I WILL have her out of this palace before our return! The Lady smiled a sinister smile to herself. I WILL see you dead Rin!
CHAPTER 6
Sesshomaru had decided that he and his mother would leave after breakfast. He did this only to be with Rin for just a bit longer. The day had began with such unnatural beauty that Sesshomaru struggled with staying focused on the task at hand. The Lady had sent her entourage ahead claiming that she wished to have some "private time" with her son. Sesshomaru suspected that she was truly interested in the "change" that she had finally witnessed the afternoon before.
To Sesshomaru's surprise, Rin was absent at breakfast. Sesshomaru was a bit annoyed. She was the whole reason for the delay in departure. The Lady also noticed her absence.
"Is she too good to come to breakfast now?" She quipped sarcastically as she sipped her tea. "I will see what kept her after the meal mother." Came the dry reply. The Lady just rolled her eyes. Sesshomaru dutifully sat until his mother had finished her meal before rising. "I will meet you at the great staircase once I've seen to Rin." Sesshomaru then turned on his heels.
Once at Rin's rooms, Sesshomaru did not bother to knock before entering. He found her sitting quietly at her table. The doors had been opened, and she was looking onto the gardens of the inner court. Her breakfast sat on the table untouched.
Sesshomaru quietly came to the table and took a seat. Rin slowly regarded the taiyoukai, eyes filled with unshed tears. "I was trying to be strong." She started quietly, "If I came to breakfast, I was fearful of making a scene. I thought it best to stay here." Sesshomaru took Rin's hand and pulled her to stand. Rin faced him and looked up into his eyes. Sesshomaru's face was as stoic as ever, but his eyes shone with so much love that Rin blinked away her tears.
"This Sesshomaru could never leave without looking upon you first." he said lovingly. Rin smiled broadly now. "And this Rin is happy to know that." Rin then raised her hands to rest on Sesshomaru's shoulders. Sesshomaru mirrored the movement but went further to rest one of his hands upon the space in her neck that he had marked. Rin then reached for the place at Sesshomaru's neck that she had marked.
"Mine." She said softly as she caressed Sesshomaru's neck.
"Forever." Sesshomaru whispered in turn. He then released his hold and took a step back.
"I will remember you when I look to the heavens and see the stars." Rin said, as he was about to leave.
"And I will see you in every patch of flowers I come to." Sesshomaru said quietly. As Sesshomaru left, he committed Rin's bright smile to memory hoping that he would be able to see it again.
They had traveled almost one hundred miles in that one day before it was decided that it was time to make camp. The Lady had given specific instruction to her entourage as to where she felt would be an acceptable stopping places. They had to travel at least one hundred miles unless a suitable place could not be found. She and Sesshomaru had but to fly and see the campsite to know when to land.
In the interest of speed, Sesshomaru and his mother took on their "true" youkai forms for travel.
Had a human taken a moment to look to the sky, and if his vision was clear enough, they would have seen the pair as they went past.
Sesshomaru did not realize exactly how much he disliked the power of flight before this trip. While he did enjoy his solitude when he traveled through the forest, it was the life that surrounded him in the forest below that he found himself missing.
A glade by a river had been found and The Lady was well pleased with the decision of her fellows to stop here. Sesshomaru however, was visibly irritated. His mother's group was too noisy. Too fussy. He was unaccustomed to all of the pomp.
Sesshomaru found a tree well away from the confusion, and settled down for the evening. He had left Jaken to attend to the affairs of the palace, and Ah-Un was left if Rin should be in need of transportation.
He lit no fire, and gave himself no comfort. These were things he would do for Rin. If he were not able to see her sleeping form from across the firelight, there was no point to building a fire. No point to comfort. No point to be reminded that he was ultimately - alone. They were gone for what felt like barely a day, and he already found himself missing her horribly. He longed for her smile and yearned for her touch. He decided it was best to sit in darkness rather than allow his mother to see his present state of weakness. After some time had passed, The Lady had found him.
"Come and join me by the fire." She said almost lovingly.
"I am quite fine here mother." Came the short reply. Sesshomaru had his eyes closed. He didn't bother to look in his mother's direction.
The Lady regarded her son for a moment before placing both hands on her hips and giving a huff. "Do not tell me that you are still annoyed by my livening up Rin's sparring match!"
"Sesshomaru opened his eyes slightly looking at his mother through his lashes. "She could have been seriously injured mother." He said coldly.
"But she was not." The Lady pointed out, Curse her resilience!." she further mumbled. And I did honor my wager. You now have ten of my best guards now!" The Lady folded her arms before catching her mistake. "Oh wait. You have eight of my guards now! Lest I forget your infernal temper in dispatching two good men!
~~~~~ Flash Back ~~~~~~
Once Rin had was out of listening range, Sesshomaru then turned to his mother enraged. "Thank the gods that nothing happened to her or I may not be held responsible for my actions!" He growled, fangs bared.
The Lady knew she had gone too far. She cowered slightly in an effort to appease her son. "The girl is fine son. Let me see to my guard's wounds and tell my men of their change in command."
"As you wish." Came the cold reply. And with that, The Lady was gone with her two guardsmen in a large display of youkai smoke.
The Lady had her men assemble in the gardens of the inner court next to her rooms to break the news.
"You all are my elite guard, but I am not happy!" The Lady barked out angrily. She then turned a hard look to the beaten guard. "One of you failed both your Lady and all youkaikind in one fell swoop!" The guard bowed his head in shame.
"One of your brethren, allowed himself to be beaten… in fair combat - by a ningen .. A ningen girl no less! And, as a result of your brother's carelessness, you all belong to Lord Sesshomaru now."
Unknown to The Lady, Sesshomaru was not far behind her when she gathered her men. He was still quite angry but was not about to let his emotions be seen by anyone - not even his mother. He arrived in time enough to "clarify" exactly who belonged to whom.
"My mother has you all misinformed." He announced with unusual calm, "You do not belong to me, you belong to Rin. My mother lost a fair bet with Rin, and you now serve her."
Every guard looked to The Lady who hung her head in shame. "Its true." She said quietly. "But she release them to you my son!" She quickly interjected. "No!" Sesshomaru said firmly. "Your wager was with her not me. You owe Rin - not me." There was the slightest sound of grumbling among the men.
Sesshomaru turned a surprised eye on the guards. "Is there a problem?" He asked quietly.
It was the second guard that had initially accompanied The Lady that spoke first. "My lord, I mean you no offense, but I refuse to serve the ningen wench. There is no honor in it."
"I see." Sesshomaru continued calmly. Sesshomaru then turned his gaze to the guard that was beaten. "And you, I gather you would not wish to serve the one who scarred your face so badly - even in an honorable match?"
"No Milord." Came the emphatic reply. "All I wish for right now it to do to her face what she has done to mine!" He said with a snarl.
At this point The Lady of The West just cast her eyes to the ground. She knew these men just signed their death warrant, they were just too fool to know it yet.
Sesshomaru then beckoned the men forward. "Stand beside me." he continued. "Now. Are there any more among you with any objections?" The other men stood silent.
In truth, The Lady was a very cruel mistress. While it was true that they did live well, The Lady lived to torment them. Surly serving a ningen mistress stood to be an improvement. The two guards that objected to the new arrangements had been The Lady's chosen favorites. It was understandable that their loyalty would remain with her.
These two same guards that had objected to serving Rin missed the drastic change in Sesshomaru's countenance. They had assumed that Sesshomaru would allow them to remain with their mistress so they did not pay attention. His eyes had turned red and his claws had lengthened. The taiyoukai's rage was clear only to those who faced him.
"It would seem that a lesson in 'honor' is in order here." He said with a low growl.
Without warning, Sesshomaru spun around and with one well placed claw, slit across the midsection of both men exposing their entrails. Both demons screamed as blood gushed out of them while they fought to hold their intestines from spilling out. The garden immediately became a bloody mess.
Sesshomaru casually faced the remaining guards and continued speaking above the screaming. "Honor involves giving your word then keeping it." Sesshomaru then pulled out Tenseiga and sliced through the demons again, healing them almost immediately. Both guards gasped for breath as they looked upon the combined sight of healed wounds and their spilled blood grateful for life.
Unfortunately for them, Sesshomaru had not finished his lecture.
Sesshomaru continued.
"Honor means that once your word is given, you follow through no matter what the end result for you may be." Sesshomaru spun around again. This time he used two claws to open the demons up. Both doubled over again in shock and pain as their blood once more splayed around them. Sesshomaru turned back to the eight guards facing him. All were in various stages of shock, but no one said a word.
Again, Tenseiga was wielded granting life anew to the two guards.
"So tell me, what you have learned this day?" Sesshomaru concluded.
"Death before dishonor!" chorused the eight guards.
"Good." said Sesshomaru. " This lesson is at its conclusion."
Sesshomaru then turned to leave the group, appearing as if to have forgotten about the two guards. They straightened themselves as he passed them and bowed.
"Thank you for sparing our lives Milord." Said one. "Yes my lord, thank you." Echoed the other. Neither had noticed Sesshomaru's claws glowing green.
"Ah yes!" Sesshomaru said smiling, I'd almost forgotten about you two!" Sesshomaru then took a moment to regard both men. Again, his facial features changed dramatically almost instantly.
"Lady Rin is not a wench!" he said as he bared his fangs.
Before either guard could pass comment, Sesshomaru took a step closer to the pair, sending the claws of both hands past muscle, sinew and bone into the chest of each guard, ripping their still beating hearts out from them.
His claws continued to glow green as his poisons reduced the organs in his hands to dust. As the two guards gurgled out what may have been an apology before dying, he then turned a cold eye to his mother.
"Clean up your mess!" Sesshomaru hissed before leaving.
No one dared to speak.
Everyone in Sesshomaru's court knew… If you ever saw the Lord smiling, it meant that someone was about to die. This lesson had only to be taught once.
~~~~ End of Flash Back ~~~
Sesshomaru then turned to look directly at his mother. "I was not going to leave anyone behind that I thought may be a threat to Rin's life mother.
The Lady came closer to her son in an effort to change the subject of conversation.
"Tell me truthfully son. Exactly what is Rin to you?" Sesshomaru closed his eyes and looked away from his mother.
'What she is, is none of your concern. Right now, you would do well in focusing on this trip. You know more about our destination than I do and I do not feel comfortable with that fact. You are my mother and I have tried to show you every possible respect. But make no mistake mother, if this is some sort of elaborate scheme to be rid of Rin, I will not hesitate to kill you."
The Lady knew her son was not one to lie as she quietly quirked an eye at him. "Does she really mean that much to you?" Sesshomaru did not answer. The Lady folded her arms and inhaled sharply. Sesshomaru was clearly not going to take this subject any further. She instead decided upon a change of subject of conversation.
After a moment of silence, she sighed softly, and began to speak. "I have met the Oracle only once. She said that I would see her a total of three times in my life. This will be my second time coming to her." The Lady unfolded her hands and came close to where Sesshomaru sat.
" When I had seen her last, I was told that the House of the West was to receive a great power." The Lady's voice became suddenly very serious. "OUR house was to be the catalyst to a great change." Her voice had lifted with pride when she spoke the last sentence. "But… The Lady paused and her voice came softly, "All would be set in motion, by a human." She knew she had Sesshomaru's interest even if he mad no indication of it.
"When we come close enough to her dwelling, she will lead us there. I can tell you no more than this because even I do not know."
The Lady had seen that the conversation was at its conclusion and was about to leave when she stopped suddenly. "I have one final question son." Sesshomaru turned his head in her direction. "When I witnessed your ward spar with my guard, I saw something different about her. Was this the 'change' you were speaking of when I had first come to dinner?"
"Yes mother." he said quietly. "It was my hope that you may have been able to sense something that I may have missed. But by your own admission, you saw nothing." The Lady gave a small nod and headed back to the campsite.
she had much to think about.
I have known this prophecy for centuries now. With humanity almost at our doorstep, I thought that the necessary 'human' would be among the many war lords that surround our lands. The Lady had reached her tents to find a table and chair waiting for her. She called for some tea, and continued her musings.
For the briefest of moments, Rin was not human! She wielded youkai as if it were her birthright! Suddenly, a great fear gripped The Lady as the realization began to dawn on her. What if the catalyst for greatness turned out to be Rin? "No! I will not allow it! She growled to herself. Rin will not have my home! She will not have my title! And, she will definitely not have my son!
The Lady purred to herself as a most sinister smirk slowly crawled across her face. "So you will kill me If I try to be rid of your precious Rin eh my son? I doubt that you will have the chance! If all goes as planned, my assassins will have her dead in a matter of days!" The Lady of The West then smiled into her tea. "Within days my son!"
A youkai is not an immortal being. They are born, a fortunate few grow old, and the blessed die peacefully. Time passes differently. The time span of a day to a human, is barely an instant passed to a youkai. A week, may be conceived as a day. And, a month may be conceived as a week.
Within Rin's concept of time, it had been almost six months since Sesshomaru's departure. Autumn was at its end as winter started making her presence known. There were still vestiges of reds and browns to be seen along the forest floor and a few green leafy bushes continued their doomed fight to stay vibrant.
Rin had begun a 'ritual' of a sort. Early every evening, she would stand by the great staircase to watch the sunset. She had long known that it was Sesshomaru's favorite part of the day. She would watch the sunset, as she knew her lord would be watching it. With this simple act, she felt 'connected' to him somehow. Because she had no doubt that where ever he may be, he would be watching as she was.
Rin had company this particular evening as Jaken had taken a moment to watch with her. While the little kappa did enjoy reveling in the fact that the house of the west was left to his care, he too found himself missing his lord's presence. Being with Rin occasionally helped to soothe his concerns for a while.
Jaken normally would stand silently with her. Remembering that she would obviously be thinking of Sesshomaru, he chose not to interrupt her thoughts. Tonight however, he was in a most talkative mood. Droning on about the daily duties and various minor squabbles between servants. Rin listened attentively and occasionally offered up suggestions to some of the dilemma's Jaken faced. Jaken was mildly surprised at Rin's budding leadership abilities. "You really are becoming quite the clever human!" He remarked with exaggerated sarcasm. Rin laughed heartily before they both fell silent again.
Jaken had a moment of sympathy for Rin as he saw the sadness reflected in her eyes this evening. He came close to where she was standing and lightly touched the sleeve of her kimono. "He will be home soon." He said warmly.
Rin took her gaze from the sky to look at the little kappa. His face, an obvious blanket of concern.
"I know." She said smiling. "But what concerns me is the nature of his trip." Jaken 'harrumphed' just slightly annoyed "He goes to see to your benefit! He squawked. Rin rested her hand lovingly on Jaken's shoulder silencing any further remarks.
"I know, I just wish I could be rid of the feeling of dread that I've been having the last few nights. Something terrible is about to happen - I can feel it." Jaken laughed heartily. "There is an entire palace that will come to your defense should there be any trouble! You have nothing to worry about 'Lady Rin'. Jaken smiled with confidence as he purposely accentuated his last two words.
Rin smiled warmly. "I am well aware of that my friend. Its just that…." Rin's voice trailed off. "Just that what?" Jaken piped in with obvious annoyance. Rin sighed heavily. "This time, I think it will be me fighting for the palace. Rin then turned to view the last vestiges of sunlight. " I pray that I will be strong enough." Jaken sucked his teeth and hissed. "You think entirely too much!" The toad demon turned on his heels to walk away.
"Well? He screeched, Are you coming to dinner or not?" "Coming Master Jaken! Rin said half chuckling.
Little did either know, that were they to have looked just to the east, they would have seen campfires. The plan of the Lady of the West was about to be made plain.