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I looked up to his strikingly handsome face, meeting his stony gaze head-on. For a brief moment, was shocked and stunned by the transformation the years had wrought upon the once-young male I had known. Sesshomaru had grown into a man of undeniable presence and allure, his visage marked by twin stripes on each cheek, a distinctive trait of his lineage. These markings, which had once been a symbol of youth and potential, had now matured, reflecting the strength and wisdom he had amassed over the years. On his forehead, the cresent moon-shaped mark adorned his skin, signifying both his rank and his noble lineage within the House of the Moon. The mark glimmered faintly in the ambient light, a testament to his high standing within the clan.
His features were chiseled and refined, the sharp angles of his face accentuating his rugged handsomeness. His golden eyes, like pools of molten gold, held a depth that spoke of countless experiences and trials. A fine sheen of silver hair cascaded elegantly down his back, framing his face with an almost regal air.
As I gazed upon him, I couldn't help but feel a reaction deep within me. The emotions that had once been buried under layers of history and duty now resurfaced, like a quiet flame reignited. It was a complicated dance between the past and the present, between old friends and newfound strangers. Sesshomaru's expression, though stoic as ever, held a hint of intrigue, as if he too had been taken off guard.
As I studied him more closely, I discerned the subtle cracks in the mask he had so meticulously crafted around his heart. I delved into the depths concealed behind his eyes, glimpsing the well-guarded emotions he steadfastly refused to reveal. In that fleeting moment, I saw the complexity of his soul, the turmoil, and the vulnerability hidden beneath his stoic exterior.
But then, a sudden awareness of my own position and rank within the palace washed over me. I had chosen to obscure my true identity, and as such, I could not afford the luxury of familiarity. I averted my eyes and dipped my head, a gesture that stopped short of a full bow. His gaze narrowed at my response, and a small smile played on my lips as I realized that, despite my hidden identity, I still possessed the power to stir his emotions.
"This part of the palace is out of bounds," he again declared in an authoritative voice, his stance commanding and unwavering. Sesshomaru held himself with an air of regal confidence, a testament to his elevated rank among demons. The passage of time had molded him into a figure of formidable strength and independence, a man who relied on no one but himself.
The boy I had once known him to be remained hidden, concealed behind a veneer of icy composure. Yet, even though the years had transformed him into a formidable presence, the core of his identity was not lost. There was a lingering hint of the young male I had once known, a ghost of the past that still dwelled within the enigmatic depths of his character.
"You have grown well," I remarked, my voice carrying a trace of nostalgia as I recalled the image of the young boy who had once run around my feet so many years ago.
That particular memory was one I held dear, etched vividly in the canvas of my mind. It was a warm and idyllic day, with the cherry blossoms overhead casting a gentle, pink-hued shade. Toga, Sesshomaru, and I had gathered beneath the boughs of the cherry blossom tree, where the delicate petals fell like confetti, drifting lazily on the breeze. The fragrant scent of the flower blooms enveloped us, infusing the air with its sweet perfume.
Little Sesshomaru, a young boy at the time, was a bundle of boundless energy. His snow-white hair was neatly bound in a braid that I had carefully fashioned that very morning. During that period, I resided within the palace and had taken it upon myself to care for the small boy who had tragically lost his mother. In the midst of those fleeting moments, we had formed a bond that transcended the bounds of time and duty, a connection that I had cherished throughout the years.
On that particular day, we had chosen to dine amidst the blossoming beauty of the palace garden, where vibrant flowers adorned the landscape. My innate connection with nature allowed me to nurture and cultivate these gardens, and I often took the opportunity to share this knowledge with young Sesshomaru.
"Luna, Luna!" he called, his voice filled with excitement as he scampered toward me. In his small hand, he held a moonflower, its pearly white petals contrasting with the vivid colors of the other blooms. An innocent and expectant smile graced his beautiful face as he presented me with the delicate blossom. I admired the purity of the flower and gently passed it back to him.
"Would you like to place it in my hair?" I inquired, kneeling down beside the young boy. With delicate fingers, he threaded the moonflower into my hair, his touch gentle and tender as he playfully adorned me with the fragrant bloom. It was a moment of simple joy, etched in time, where the beauty of nature and the innocence of youth converged.
The name "Luna" held a special significance within the House of the Moon, serving as a term of endearment for a female mate. Young Sesshomaru had grasped onto this custom and affectionately used the name when addressing me. I found it endearing, a testament to the unique bond we shared, and I welcomed the term with a warm heart.
Seated back on my heels, I watched as he deftly braided my hair in intricate patterns, mimicking the techniques I had shown him just the week before. He was indeed a fast learner, his fingers working with precision and a focused determination that belied his tender age.
Toga leaned back against the trunk of an ancient tree, basking in the warmth of the sun as we enjoyed our peaceful day in the garden. He spoke with a knowing smile, his words carrying a hint of playful teasing. "My boy has taken quite a liking to you, my dear. Give it a few years, and he will be begging to take you as his mate."
I couldn't help but smile in response to his suggestion. It was true that within the breed of Inu, the concept of mates held deep significance. Mates were expected to protect, care for, and provide for one another, and it was not unusual for them to have significant age differences. In our world, age was not a determining factor when it came to choosing a mate.
But that memory was from a time long ago, and the world had evolved and changed dramatically since then.
Aware of the delicate balance I had to maintain due to my concealed identity, I broke the moment of connection by excusing myself. With a slight inclination of my head, I conveyed my respect to Sesshomaru and then turned to depart, my footsteps fading away as I left behind a slightly puzzled demon, his gaze lingering on the enigmatic figure that had momentarily stirred his emotions.
"I must take my leave," I spoke softly, my voice a gentle breeze as I stepped away from Sesshomaru, my gaze still respectfully averted. "There is much to prepare for the Changing of the Guard ceremony. I hope to see you again soon."
Without waiting for a response, I turned and walked away, my footsteps measured and graceful, carrying me back toward the grand entrance hall. The atmosphere lingered with unspoken words, a mixture of nostalgia and intrigue, as I left Sesshomaru behind, his enigmatic presence still resonating in my thoughts.
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