Ch13- Party of 2

"...answer... So that's why I'm in this kimono! This isn't something that can be done on a whim Sesshomaru! Th-"

"I can assure you that I thought about it before you left us and you know that. This is not the first time I asked you for an answer"

"have you kept track of all the centuries we haven't seen each other? This is our first day in each others' presence in one hell of a long time!"

"I suppose since you finally used the word "our" that I will give you the time you need to adjust. However, there will still be a gathering this evening"

"why?"

"That stupid toddler has been hiding you from me by using his powers to shield your scent, aura and shrine. Allow me this night to throw it in his face"

"... Very well. But I think this should be done in a period-correct fashion. If you want to give him a show then go all out. You may have this one night if and only if I may organize it" Kagome looks up at Sesshomaru with pleading eyes. "pleeeaaase?"

"Plan to your heart's desire my dear miko. Just promise that I will be your escort for this...masquerade"

"done!" after a few seconds she looks up at Sesshomaru skeptically as he tries to hide a small laugh behind his hand "what?"

"You just seem so determined and excited. Are you sure you won't reconsider?"

"Not now Sesshy. I'm going to test you thoroughly before I make a decision"

"test to your heart's content Kagome, but know this, no matter what you do, you will never find anything wrong with me"

"strong words for someone about to go through hell"

"such a loud bark for someone with no bite"

"don't start whimpering later if you can't stand the heat"

"I can assure you that this Sesshomaru relishes a good challenge. Give me your best shot miko"

"I plan on it!"

The taiyoukai sighs. "In all of these years you have not changed. I hope you strongly consider my proposal. Now I have paperwork to do, you have access to anything you need" he gets up and leaves the room. As he exits what appears to be a black ball of fur tackles Kagome to the floor.

"Okaa-San! I missed you so much! Did you see your room yet? I picked everything out! Did you see your garden? I've been taking good care of it since you left!"

"My goodness Rin! Slow down and breathe!" Kagome laughs as she pulls them up off the floor "you've certainly grown some haven't you?"

Rin's hair is now up in ponytails, still reaching her waist and she now reaches Kagome's shoulders in height "I've been waiting a long time for you Okaa-San!"

"I know, I'm sorry I took so long, but it is wonderful to see you again... I guess I can't call you my little girl any more now that you're all grown up"

"I'll always be your little girl Okaa-San!"

"Well let's plan the best party of the year Rin!"

"Yay!" Rin jumps up and down excitedly "I'll get everyone to help! You start thinking Okaa-San!" the not-so-small girl runs off.

A short while later most of the staff is assembled in the grand hall. "First off, thank you all for volunteering. Second... Who's ready to make the best party ever!"

"WE ARE!" they all cheer.

"Then let's get to work!" the room is then flooded with furious activity.

Some odd hours later Kagome walks into Sesshomaru's study with Rin jumping around behind her. "Oh Sesshy!" she smiles.

"... Can I help you miko?" Sesshomaru looks at her skeptically.

"It's time to go get dressed! Rin and I already picked out your outfit so all you need to do is get dressed and make sure you're outside to greet everyone"

"do not forget what you promised, Kagome"

"if you dress for me then I'll dress for you..."

"Hm... You will also have a crescent moon somewhere on your person. I want everyone to know who is courting you"

"Don't worry Tou-San! I took care of that for you! Okaa-San is going to look so pretty!"

"Well then, I look forward to this...?"

"It's a masquerade!" Rin exclaims excitedly.

"Go get ready Rin"

"yes Tou-San!" the child runs off down the hall.

"A masquerade, Kagome?"

"The mask I have offsets yours and they both have crescent moons on them. Rin took care of the guest list. They'll start arriving in half an hour. Rin will be escorting then to the great hall but being the Lord; you must be there to welcome them"

"of course. You will join me when you are ready." Kagome notices that at one point during all of this Sesshomaru lead her to her room. "And Kagome..." he whispers in her ear. "Don't keep me waiting"