Chapter 2

We reach a clearing in the forest. I motion for Rin to take a seat against a tree, while I do the same against the opposite tree. I sense that she is weary from her training and the last thing I would want, is to tire her some more.

I close my eyes, trying not to let anger speak for me.

"Sesshomaru-sama, I am sorry for going behind your back. I admit it." She said, bowing her head down shamefully.

I sigh.

"Why did you not tell me, Rin?" I asked wearily.

Was she so afraid of telling me? I have always been reasonable with her.

"You were gone so long. I felt like you were far away...distant from me and my life here at the village. I knew you were busy with other things. It's just that...I did not want to add to your burdens. I thought that if I could defend myself, then you will not have to waste time looking out for me. It seemed to be a good idea at the time..." She fumbled.

I see now. She did not take up this training because she wanted to be a demon slayer but only because she thought to help me, by being able to defend herself! She acted on my behalf - in other words, she was training for me. My heart melted at the thought and I was touched. It is so like my Rin to think of my welfare above her own.

I snapped out of my daze and turned my attention back towards her.

"Rin, although your consideration is appreciated, I assure you - you are not a burden to me. If I had thought it necessary you should learn to fight, I would have made arrangements a long time back." I said reassuringly.

She turns to me, giving me a grateful smile.

"I expect you to stop your training now." I finished, expecting her to comply.

Her face instantly lost the smile. What is it now?

"I did not think you were against my training, Sesshomaru-sama. Would you mind so much if I continued with it? It is a useful skill to have..." she said, trying to negotiate.

I was puzzled. Why would she wish to continue with her training, when she has me?

"Do you find my protection inadequate?" I counter, curiously.

She flushed in embarrassment.

"I did not mean that exactly. It's just that...well, why wouldn't you like me to learn how to fight?" She cleverly answered my question with a question.

Ordinarily, I would not like receiving an answer with a question but this is Rin. I am startled as to how she has learned to maneuver around me. But I am impressed at how sharp she is...

"I would rather you retained your fear of killing, Rin. Training does not only teach one how to fight but it alters one's personality as well. You have not killed as of yet, but once you do, you will see that what I say is true and by then, you will no longer be able to return to your innocence." I said, in an effort to explain my position.

I see that she is contemplating what I have said but I am growing slightly anxious because it is important for me, that Rin not learn to fight. So I hasten to drive the final nail on the coffin.

"There is also the small matter in the fact that I need you to lean on me." I said, uncomfortably.

She looked up to me in surprise.

"But why?" She questioned, shocked.

"Have you not figured it out yet? If you did not need me any longer, then I would not have a reason to be part of your life; and you would not have a reason to be part of mine." I said, bluntly.

She looked at me then with tears in her eyes. I try to escape her pity-filled eyes.

"Of course if you do not need me anymore Rin, you are free to do as you wish." I said, unwillingly.

She hurls herself at me, crying.

"Oh no, Sesshomaru-sama! I do need you, please don't leave me here! I won't train anymore. I only thought I should because it will help you but since you no longer deem it necessary, I will not do so because I...need you too." She admitted, nodding her head.

My heart instantly feels lighter.