Summary: Kagome made a promise to herself in 'Gifts for all' and brings back something special, just for Rin.
AN: LJ Dokuga-Contest, Seven Treasures Challenge – Coral
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~ooO Coral: Something for Rin Ooo~
Kagome had not forgotten her vow to herself. The next time she returned to the future, to replenish her supplies, she visited the local craft markets looking for a suitable trinket for Rin. She found something designed and created by a local artisan. It was a bit pricey but more than worth it. Happily Kagome passed over the required amount of yen and tucked the narrow box into her handbag.
Thankfully Okaa-san had already purchased the bulk of her supplies (she always needed the same things when she came back) so she had some time to spend with her family, getting them caught up on the basics of what had happened.
When it was time to leave she slipped her backpack on, accepted the bento boxes from her mother, and hurried out to the well-house. One trip through time, and ten minutes later she was on her way to Edo village where the others were waiting for her. She couldn't wait to see Rin again!
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"Is that for me?"
Kagome stifled the urge to squee and hug the stuffing out of Rin. She was sooo cute! The miko coughed softly and tried to compose herself. "Yes Rin-chan."
She watched the little girl pull the ten inch strand of 4mm red coral beads separated by tiny metallic yellow glass seed beads. In the centre of the beads were three inch long lengths of irregular polished coral that mimicked a pendant. The string of coral beads ended in lengths of gold plated chain and a hook-clasp that allowed the necklace to be worn by a child and a woman. It had cost a bit from her savings but it was well worth the smile on Rin's face.
Kagome doubted if the poor child had ever received impractical gifts, useless trinkets, the kinds showered on Kagome by her family and friends in the future. Life in the Feudal Era was hard and short. Most peasant families could never afford jewellery made from precious stones. And while Sesshoumaru could afford a gift she doubted if he ever would. He was more of Rin's protector and caretaker and not the sort to indulge her. Oh as much as he'd deny it, Kagome knew he cared for Rin but he knew nothing of what human females, let alone a little girl, would want.
"Miko."
Kagome gritted her teeth and turned to the daiyoukai. "Yes, Sesshoumaru-sama?"
He glared at her with a suspicious expression. "Why have you given Rin such an expensive trinket? Where did you procure such an item?"
Kagome was taken aback by the questions. Then she saw his point. Coral was not so expensive in the future but in the past it came from Africa and the Mediterranean via India. It was a rarity in Feudal Era Japan. So she bowed her head and did not take offence at his words.
"I bought the necklace in my homeland, Sesshoumaru-sama." She lifted her chin to meet his eyes. "Coral is not so expensive where I come from." She looked at Rin and smiled softly. "It is a gift for her." She turned back to the daiyoukai with challenging eyes. "I meant no offence and ask for no payment. It is a gift."
He studied her intently. "It is a costly gift." He paused glancing at Rin. The little girl said nothing but everyone could see the plea in her eyes. "I will allow it." Rin's eyes brightened. He turned to Kagome. "Is there a particular reason you chose coral?" he asked.
Kagome helped Rin put away the necklace in its velvet lined box as she answered. "Coral is said to ward off evil spirits and act as a protective charm, particularly for children. Some spiritualists say coral can be used to connect with the natural world since it is the perfect example of animal and plant life living in harmony." She touched the little girl's cheek. "It is the perfect gift for one such as Rin who loves nature."
Sesshoumaru was silent as he absorbed Kagome's explanation. "You are correct," he admitted finally.
Kagome did not do anything crass like crow or punch her fist in the air. She merely smiled demurely at the daiyoukai and guided Rin towards the campfire. It was almost time for supper and Rin was quite knowledgeable about preparing campfire meals; a necessity when travelling with youkai who had very different diets and preferences from ningens.
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The End.
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