Chapter Text
No matter how many suitors she has, Rin never chooses one. Although, Kaede have noticed for a long time now that something in her changed. Rin is almost a grown-up woman now, at the age of 17, and she would have been married until now, but without reason, she refuses every man who tried to court her or proposed her until now. Kaede has her suspicions, but she doesn't want to think way too far. Rin may be in great danger if she feels what Kaede thinks, not only for her heart but with the demons and humans around too.
Today, Rin didn't speak too much. She finished her chores early and now she is sitting under her favourite sakura tree. This tree is big, strong, but refreshing at the same time. Rin always finds comfort sitting under him. She feels safe here. This tree reminds her of her master, Lord Sesshomaru, the demon with whom she used to travel when she was 8. Those times have fallen and Rin is living in the human village, raised by Kaede since she was 9. Sesshomaru comes to visit her sometimes, but his visits are always short and rare. He brings her new kimonos or small gifts, he asks her how is she, if she has everything she needs, if she feels safe and is treated with respect, but after all the confirmations he leaves just like he came.
Rin wishes he would stay more. Forever. She will never say this to him, though. Lord Sesshomaru is the greatest person she knows. He is strong, royal, wealthy and is respected and feared by everyone. Rin is only a human girl. Everyone would think that she should be afraid of him, but she is not. He has her complete trust. He could tell her that she has to put herself in front of a sword and she would because she knows he would save her somehow. He always does. Sighing, Rin is leaving the tree with a heavy heart and goes back to the Kaede's hut. She wouldn't leave this place so nostalgic if she'd know the surprise she'll face once arrived there.
He looks majestically as always. His long hair is shining in the sun. His golden eyes are reflecting a whole constellation of stars. His soft momoko is long and looks fluffier than ever. Rin thinks of a little girl, with pointy ears, holding it, playing with it while laughing cheerfully. Oh, no! Why did she think of lord Sesshomaru having a half-human little girl on his momoko? She needs to clear her mind. She cannot even dare to think about her lord in this way. He needs someone like him. Someone royale, and strong and beautiful because Sesshomaru-sama is the most beautiful living creature Rin has ever seen. But this is something she will keep for herself, like she needs to keep the feeling of wrapping herself around him, holding him tight and never letting him go.
" Sesshomaru-sama! Jaken-sama! I am so happy to see you!"
" Sesshomaru is here for a while, little girl! You would have stayed more with him if you wouldn't wander around so much."
Rin is mad right now. She hates when Kaede is calling her 'little girl' in front of Sesshomaru. She is not little. Sango gave birth when she was around her age. She is not a child anymore, but a young woman and the large numbers of suitors confirm this. But Kaede will always consider her, Kagome and Sango little girls. Just like Sesshomaru-sama, probably. He is looking at her right now with intense eyes. Rin feels like she is having a flame into her belly when he is watching her that way.
" Rin. Are you fine?"
" Yes, Sesshomaru-sama, just fine. I wanted to be alone for a moment"
" It's probably because of the suitors. They never leave her alone. They are here or with flowers, or with kimonos, or with a chicken or a bag of vegetables. I feel like this place has become a market."
Sesshomaru's expression changed a little bit hearing this.
" Suitors?"
" Yes, plenty of them. She had almost every boy in this village asking for her hand, but for a reason known only by her, she refused them all. "
" Suitors?"
" We should let you two talk. Little guy, come with me."
" My name is Jaken, you old lady, and I listen orders only from my master."
" Jaken."
" Yes, Sesshomaru-sama?"
" Get lost."
Kaede grins. Jaken has nothing to do but leave. They are alone now. This is the thing Rin wanted and feared the most in the same time. It's harder and harder being alone with lord Sesshomaru for a while.
" How many, Rin?"
" Hm?"
" How many suitors did you have?"
" Oh...I don't know. There were a few."
" Kaede said that almost all the boys in this village asked for your hand. This doesn't seem like a 'few' to me."
He is right.
" Well, I wasn't paying attention to them. I don't know for sure. But they came, it's right. They always bring me gifts. Just like Kaede said, sometimes they bring something to eat, other times they only come with the proposal..."
" Do you like their gifts?"
" I don't know. I always give them to Kagome or Sango. Sango needs all the food having 3 kids to raise. The twins and little Hisui are so cute!"
Sesshomaru is looking intensely at Rin. He can feel that she wants to start a family. But why does she refuses everyone?
" Do you want to start a family, Rin?"
The question is taking Rin by surprise. She wants to. She wants it from all of her heart....but the person with whom she wants that family is untouchable for a simple girl like her. She bends her head and smiles gently.
" I just want to be happy, Sesshomaru-Sama."
Sesshomaru nods.
" I will come to visit you again soon, Rin. I hope you'll like the kimono that I bring. Pink suits you well."
Rin's cheeks are flushed. Sesshomaru just made her a compliment?
" I like everything that is from you, Sesshomaru-Sama. Well, except for that ribbon you gave me two months ago. Ups!"
" You disliked it? Why? What was wrong with her?"
" Well...don't get me wrong, Sesshomaru-Sama, the material was nice, but the ribbon's colour was so bright that anyone could see me from a mile. I don't like these bright colours. They don't define me."
" Why?"
" Well, they are bright and give me the feeling of confidence and power while I'm just...you know...Rin."
" Rin is a powerful and confident girl. It's very important for her to not forget this."
" I don't know about the power, Sesshomaru-Sama. Lady Kaede always tells me: 'Rin, you cannot carry a bucket of water without splashing half of it. You have the strength of a chicken with a wing' and these things...Sesshomaru-Sama....did you just smile?"
" This Kaede lady may be a little bit funny sometimes."
" Sesshomaru-Sama, you're more beautiful when you smile!"
" Huh?"
Now, Sesshomaru turned his head in a second to look at Rin. Rin remained speechless. What is she saying?!? She cannot say to Sesshomaru that he is beautiful. She may think that, yes, but say it? He will be so mad!!!
" Sesshomaru-Sama, I....hm...I..."
" Do you really think that, Rin?"
" I.....Aham."
" Thank you. You are...."
Rin's eyes widen and now it is Sesshomaru's turn to remain speechless.
" I have to go."
" Oh....yes. I hope to see you again soon, Sesshomaru-Sama! And Jaken-Sama too! Maybe you'll bring A-Un next time?"
" I don't know if it's proper for me to bring A-Un here. I'm afraid it will scare the villagers., They are already scared by me. I don't want to cause you troubles."
" Don't worry, Sesshomaru-Sama, I can handle everything on my own."
" And you just said you aren't strong...you don't know your strength, Rin."
Sesshomaru leaves the hut just when Kaede and Jaken seemed to have just returned, but Sesshomaru is not stupid. He knows these two were for a long time here and tried to listen to his and Rin's conversation.
" Jaken! You returned just in time. What a coincidence!"
" What can I say, Sesshomaru? 200 meters on a walk with him and he already had complaints. Be prepared! He has a whole list against me!"
" What are you saying, you old lady? You.."
Hearing Rin's chuckle makes Jaken go quiet.
" Rin! Are you fine here? Everything is good?"
" Yes, Jaken-Sama! I've missed you!"
"Oh, our journey is so quiet without you! Sesshomaru-Sama doesn't speak too much as you kn....Sesshomaru-Sama, I didn't want to say this!! Anyway, Kaede-baba told me about your suitors. I can't believe I will see you with a husband and kids someday, Rin!"
This phrase said by Jaken changes completely the atmosphere. Rin goes sadder in an instant, Sesshomaru gets stiff and Kaede is watching intensely both of them.
" Did I say something wrong? Don't be afraid of marriage, Rin. I bet you will be a good wife for the human boy that..."
" JAKEN!"
" Yes, Sesshomaru-Sama?"
" You talk too much. Let's go."
" Yes, Sesshomaru-Sama. Bye, Rin! Take care of yourself! And you, old lady..."
" It wasn't nice to see you too. You're annoying."
" Well, you are.."
" Jaken."
" I'm coming, Sesshomaru-Sama!"
" So..what did the two of you talk about?"
" Oh...nothing special in particular."
" He said something about your suitors?"
" Aham. He seemed a little bit disturbed by the idea of me having a husband or it was just my imagination, Kaede-Sama?"
" Climb down your clouds, girl! You're dreaming way too much! This will never happen. No, don't try to lie to me, Rin. Just accept the idea that you and Sesshomaru will never be together, at least not in the way you dream. He is a demon, a complete one. They don't have the type of partners that we do."
" But Sesshomaru-Sama and Inuyasha-Sama's father loved a human.."
" But, after all you have heard about Inu-no-Taisho, do you really think that Sesshomaru is even a little bit like him?"
" You don't know Sesshomaru-Sama, lady Kaede. He is not like you or others think. He is a good man, the best I know."
" You don't know many men, girl!"
" I don't want to. I'd rather live alone for the rest of my life than with a man that I don't love."
" You don't know how hard it is for a woman to be alone in these times, Rin."
" Well, then I will see. I need to go, Kaede-Sama! Sango is waiting for me. See you soon!"
" Ah, Rin! You don't know how much suffering will bring you a union with Sesshomaru. That man will only bring tears in your eyes."
Sesshomaru and Jaken arrived at the forest they camp. For a particular reason, Sesshomaru didn't want to go any further. Why? Jaken doesn't know. He never expects explanations from lord Sesshomaru, but he never asks for them either. He knows pretty well Sesshomaru to trust him and his decisions. If he have decided to stay here, they will stay here.
" Oh, Sesshomaru-Sama! Rin has become such a beautiful woman! The human man who will take her as a wife will be lucky indeed. Can you imagine the beautiful children that she'll have? Well, it will be necessary a handsome man too, but maybe Rin's genes will be enough to.."
" Jaken."
" Yes, Sesshomaru-Sama?"
" Stop talking."
" Sesshomaru-Sama, may I ask you a thing?"
" You already did, don't you?"
" No, not that....about Rin..you didn't seem very happy when we talked about her marriage. You don't seem very happy now too. Is there a...problem..?"
" This is not your concern, Jaken."
" I was thinking that maybe Rin is waiting for your approval, you know? To get married."
" I am not related to her in any way, she doesn't need my approval. We're strangers."
" Yes, it's true, Sesshomaru-Sama, but I was thinking that...maybe she doesn't marry because she is thinking that you don't want to? You know how much Rin is respecting and admiring you. If it wasn't Rin we're talking about, but another woman I would think that...haha, such a silly thing!"
" What?"
" What what, Sesshomaru-Sama?"
" What would you think if it were another woman?"
' Well, I....I'd think that maybe she has another type of feeling for you, Sesshomaru-Sama, but it's Rin, so she would never dare to..."
" Why? Why she would never dare?"
" Because, as much as I love Rin, Sesshomaru-Sama, you're a lord, you'll inherit your father's title, properties and fortune and place in the demonic hierarchy and Rin is just...well, Rin. Our pretty, but simple, normal human being Rin."
" Rin is more than that, Jaken."
" I beg your pardon, Sesshomaru-Sama?"
" What Rin has cannot be compared with any property or money."
Jaken's eyes widen with realisation.
" Sesshomaru-Sama, don't say that you..."
Visiting Sango was the same as usual. For a few months now, Sango keeps giving her hints that she should accept one of her suitors. Rin knows in the depth of her heart that she should take Sango's advice. Rin is 16 years old and she is very aware of the fact that if she doesn't marry in a few years, chances of her ending up alone are very high. Fumiko, who lives at the end of the village, is only 30 years old, but she is considered "old" by everyone in the village. No man court her, women avoid her and the old villagers are saying all the bad things they know or not about her. She lives alone in her hut and is always lonely. No one is there to help her in the winter when she carries arms of wood to heat her place, no one is there for her to talk to when she is sad or sick, she has no relatives or friends to keep her company. Women probably think that she would steal their husbands(they could think of the idea that if she is single that was her choice and she for sure doesn't want their stupid husbands, but it seems like they don't want to think), men are not near her because she is considered "temptation"(which Rin thinks is revolting because a single woman is not an available woman) and so on. All of these being said and known, Rin still doesn't want to accept any of her suitors. She wants only a man and she is very much aware that she wouldn't have him so she has decided that she will be the next Fumiko and live her life alone.
Rin almost bumps into Nozomi being lost in her thoughts.
" Rin-chan! I was looking for you! Someone is waiting for you at your house. It's very important!" Nozomi ends with a wink and she leaves leaving a confused Rin behind. Very important? She knows no one important.
Arriving at Kaede's hut, she sees the old lady outside, looking in her direction a little bit worried. Rin doesn't understand why until she notices an ashigaru that is standing in front of Kaede.
" Kaede-sama..."
" Rin...we have guests...He was looking for you."
Rin is confused. Why would an ashigaru look for her?
" It's an honour to meet you. I've come with a request from our shogun. I've already talked to the lady that takes care of you, but she wanted an answer from you. I don't know why, you will certainly wouldn't refuse."
" What is it that I wouldn't refuse?"
" Our beloved shogun wants to marry you. I am here to hear your confirmation and tell me when do you want to be married."
WHAT?
" I am sorry? What?"
" The boy said that THE SHOGUN wants to marry you, Rin... I don't know why, though, when his palace is full of beautiful ladies."
" Our beloved shogun is so generous! He saw this poor girl at the market once, passing by, and noticed that even if she is just a peasant she has some refined features and she could be a lovely lady if educated. Also, he wants to give her a better life, so,.."
" No."
" Excuse me?"
" You will be the one who will excuse me and who will apologize to your shogun for me, but I politely decline his offer. I am not intending to get married. I will live my life alone. Yes, I know what kind of life I will have, but I am not afraid. Please, excuse me, but I cannot marry him."
The ashigaru starts yelling. " You will regret this! No one is refusing anything to our shogun, especially a peasant!"
" This peasant will be the first, it seems so because I will not marry him. I will be living alone my whole life. That's my choice, please respect it!"
" You think that...just wait! In a few days, we will be at the castle, married!"
The ashigaru leaves. Rin is still with her head bowed when Kaede approaches her.
" Are you crazy, girl? In what kind of problem did you put yourself into? Do you know the shogun? The castle is full of women because he has a different one every night. He sees only fun in women and treats them poorly. When he will know that you refused his offer.."
" I am sorry, Kaede-sama, but I cannot marry him!"
" I know that and I wouldn't force you to. I'd rather see you all alone your whole life than with that man, but you should have said it in another way. Rin, you could have said that you have already decided to marry someone and then,."
" And then he would have killed that man! I've heard what happened one month ago. He wanted to have Afuru and when she told him that she loves someone, the boy was found killed after two days. She is still in pain. I couldn't do that to someone in here, Kaede-sama! I may not love humans, but I will never do something that could harm them."
" But...you can be the one who will be found killed, Rin..or even worse..."
" I will accept everything that he plans as revenge, but I will never marry him. No torture can be compared with being with a man that you don't love every night for the rest of your life.
Kaed understands what Rin says. That's the reason she never married herself. She couldn't be with the person she has loved her whole life too.
' Ai....'
The news spread fast. The next day, Kagome, Inuyasha, Sango and Miroku were at Rin's hut.
" Rin-chan! Rin-chan, are you there?"
" Kagome-sama! Sango-sama! Miroku-sama, Inuyasha-sama...it's so nice to see you all, but I think you are here for other reasons, right?"
" We heard what happened. Rin, I don't think it was wise to refuse the shogun. I don't know much about humans' ranks and all, but I've heard he is the human version of Naraku. The man isn't restraining himself when it's about to end someone's life for the littlest bullshit."
" Inuyasha, what have I told you about talking shit? I mean.."
" Rin-chan, I understand that you have already taken a choice, but refusing the shogun...you play a dangerous game."
" I know, Miroku-sama, but the most dangerous game would have been living with that horrible man every day of my life. I couldn't bear that!"
" You could have said that you are already..."
" She couldn't. He would have killed that poor guy. Now, I'm afraid it's too late for that. Rin can or marry with the shogun, or finding a suitor much more powerful than him."
Inuyasha seems to think hard " Hmm.. who is more powerful than the shogun here?"
An imposing presence is making his appearance.
" Sesshomaru-sama!"
" Yuck! No, not him!"
" Inuyasha" grunts Kagome" He IS HERE!'
" Aaaaargh! Why are you here?"
Sesshomaru completely ignores Inuyasha and keeps looking at Rin who, Kagome notices, has just blushed.
" What is this fuss, Rin? Who is the shogun and what does he want from you?"
" Hmmm..Sesshomaru-ama, him..he.."
" He wants to marry her, Sesshomaru" interferes Sango " He is the most powerful in our village and no one can stand him. If someone does, death is the easiest sentence he could ask for. He has the whole power into his hands."
" Hmmm..and he wants to marry you? Why?"
" I know... I am just a peasant girl. I am surprised too. Maybe..he thinks that being a peasant, I will be an easy one to deal with. Someone who wouldn't raise him any trouble."
" It seems like you have already risen a trouble for him, Rin." Rin cannot stop her blush hearing the pride in Sesshomaru's voice. She smiles. Jaken is looking worried at them.
" Do you think he will make you troubles?"
" I don't know, Sesshomaru-sama...I think so, but I will be fine."
" Rin...you will not be fine if that murderer has something against you." Sesshomaru is looking at Inuyasha now who is speaking." If he wants you...you are in great danger."
" I will be staying here!"
" WHAT?!?"
" I said that I will stay here. I've sensed something dangerous since yesterday so I've stayed around. I will not leave this place until I know you are safe, Rin. Trust me! That man will not put a finger on you. If he tries..." Sesshomaru clenches his fist.
Kagome and the others are looking weirdly at him. If Sesshomaru would stay in front of them having suddenly another head that wouldn't be as weird as his attitude. He never talks that much! Also, the way he acts around Rin, the way he protects her.. reminds Kagome so much of Inuyasha when she is in danger. Maybe Seshsomaru had changed his opinion about humans even more than he would have ever imagined to. Knowing that Rin is fully protected now, the gang is going.
" Oi, Inuyasha..."
" What?"
" Do you think that...have you ever heard something about Seshsomaru having a lover or having particular feelings for someone?"
" Hahahaha! Are you trying to be funny, Kagome? That man loves only one person: himself! Also, who could stand him? I don't and I am his brother."
" You know perfectly well that's not true, Inuyasha, you care for him. And he cares for you....in a unique way...and has also a unique way of showing it, but.."
" Arrrgh! Only the idea of him feeling affection for me makes my skin tingles. Imagine having a family dinner..." but Inuyasha's voice softens after he says this "...this would be....well...HORRIBLE! Grrrh! Also, what's with this empathy for Sesshomaru?"
" Well, I think that we will have him around!"
" What? What are you saying? Why?"
" I cannot tell you why, I don't know for sure yet, but I think he may feel something for..."
" For....?"
" Rin."
" WHAT?!? Kagome....have you hit your head or something? Do you have a fever? Do you know that my brother hates humans, right?"
" Does he? What's his attitude towards us? Me, Sango, Miroku...Sango just called him by his name and he didn't say anything. Miroku greets him and he nods. I called him 'brother-in law' when I want to make fun of him and he just grunts. A demon who hates humans wouldn't act like that. Think about it! You have a brain, idiot, use it!"
" Well...it is a little bit weird, but...no, he wouldn't take a human girl as his wife. He would lose everything if he does that, so..I think my version with you hitting your head this morning it's more plausible, Kagome. Let's go!"
" Hitting. My. Head. no?"
Inuyasha turns around seeing Kagome standing and looking furiously at him. He knows that look. He is horrified.
" Kagome, don't.."
" Let's see who'll have his head hit, Inuyasha!
" Kagome..Kagome, come on, we're married!"
" Yes, we are and you just made your wife very angry, Inuyasha! O-SA-WA-RI!!!"
"KAGOMMEEEE!"
Rin is probably the only person who doesn't ask herself why did lord Sesshomaru say that he will stay and guard her. She puts all her trust in him and she knows he will never do something that will harm her. Seeing him on their roof gives Rin a sensation of peace. She feels like she will be safe her whole life having lord Sesshomaru watching over her. She also knows that this will not be possible, because he will take a mate after all and have little demons as heirs to guard, but she enjoys these moments and makes sure that they will be always a precious memory. Sesshomaru suddenly enters.
" Rin. I have to go for some moments. Please, stay inside the hut. Do not get out no matter what. It's not safe."
" Fine, Lord Sesshomaru!"
Sesshomaru gets out of the hut and calls Jaken. " Jaken, do not get away from this place. I have to follow the demon that was here earlier. I think I know who it is. Take care of Rin. I'll be back soon."
" Yes, Lord Sesshomaru, don't worry! Rin will be perfectly fine."
Rin is sitting patiently in the hut, waiting for her lord to come back. He always does. Kaede has fallen asleep for a while now. A whisper is making Rin getting out of the hut.
" What is it?"
" Rin-chan, I am sorry to disturb you at this hour. Do you know Ayumi, Hajime's wife? She will give birth soon! She is in so much pain! Hajime is so scared! He doesn't know what to do! It's so late! Please, come with me and help her! She can die!"
Rin is looking carefully at Genji's expression. He seems genuinely scared.
" Ok. Let me announce lady Kaede and we will go."
" It's already late! Please, we must hurry!"
" Good. Jaken-sama!"
" Yes, Rin, I am here, I wasn't asleep, please don't tell Lord Sesshomaru!"
" Jaken-sama, come with us! One of the girls in the village needs my help. I must help her!"
" Rin, I don't think is a good idea...Lord Sesshomaru told you to stay here.."
" But Lord Sesshomaru has always came for me when I needed to. Now my help is needed. Do you want to come? You can stay here if you don't, I will not be mad."
" Maybe you won't, but Lord Sesshomaru will! I am coming!"
If only Rin and Jaken would have paid attention to Genji's expression when he heard that Jaken is coming they would've known something is not right...but they didn't.'
Sesshomaru didn't want to go and let Rin alone, but he needed to check if his senses are correct. Not that he would think that he was wrong, but seeing this woman again, after all these years, could mean only problems. Sesshomaru doesn't need enemies now. He already took a decision regarding Rin and wants to see if she agrees or not. Such powerful enemies are out of the discussion if he wants to have that type of connection with Rin.
" Sesshomaru! Long time no see!"
" Zero. What do you want?"
Here she is! He wasn't wrong. Zero, the woman who loved his father and became obsessed with the idea of having him, is standing right now in front of him, proud and tall as ever
. That could mean only one thing....Kirinmaru will make an appearance soon.
" This is not the way I've expected to be received by you, dear Sesshomaru. Tell me, how is your mother? Bitchy as always?"
" I don't know. I haven't seen her in a while."
" Aren't you a loving son or what?"
" Tell me what you want, Zero. I have to go and I'm wasting time with you."
" I'll be quick, then. I've heard a prophecy: it says that half-demons will be born and will kill my brother."
Sesshomaru can't stop moving a little bit his mouth. " I still don't see the reason for calling me here."
" Well, since you're the youngest demon I know and who doesn't have a mate yet, I've just thought....that maybe you've inherited this part from your father."
" My romantical life is nothing of your concern, Zero."
" It is if has something to do with my brother, especially if it's about his ending."
" If you think I will be with whoever you want to stop Kirinmaru from being killed, then you're wrong. I don't care what happens to him or you or anyone. I have my life and live it the way I want."
" Don't tell me you have fallen in love with that stupid peasant that you guard.."
Sesshomaru's sword is threatening Zero's throat.
" One more word and another brother will be killed."
" You can't be serious, Sesshomaru. You'll lose everything."
" Again, this is nothing of your concern."
" I swear, Sesshomaru! If you dare to marry that woman and have kids with her, I will haunt you and your whole family until I will make sure that none of you will be ever happy."
" Do as you want. I'll do the same."
With that, Sesshomaru leaves, more sure than ever that he wants to spend his life with Rin, but without knowing that a great danger is close to her!
Rin, Genji and Jaken are running to arrive in time at Ayumi. Rin is really worried about her. She has seen many women giving birth and, even if she knows it is a blessing, she also knows what kind of pain women suffer through it. Also, she knows how many women had lost the battle with their own life trying to bring another one to this world. If they aren't helped at the right time, they usually die. Rin wouldn't allow for another kid raising without his mom. She will help her.
Arriving near some trees that can be a perfect hide, Genji stops suddenly.
" Rin.."
" What is it, Genji? Why did you stop? We must hurry! Ayumi's life and her child's life may be in danger!"
But Genji's face only expresses pain and disgust for his own person.
" Please, forgive me if you can!"
" W-what?"
But Rin doesn't have time to finish the phrase or to make one more step because something is hitting her in her head and she faints.
" Rin! Rin!!"
" Why are screaming, you fool? Rin. where is Rin?"
" That's why I scream. Where is she? Jaken...where is Jaken?"
" I don't know, I have fallen asleep, I...." Kaede is really worried now " I don't know."
With a grunt, Sesshomaru does something that he usually doesn't: he is using his sniff. Being a dog demon is useful sometimes, even if he wouldn't admit it. Rin and Jaken aren't far, but what scares Sesshomaru is that he senses the smell of blood.
Jaken wakes up feeling a big pain in his head. Something hit him. He didn't have time to see who, but he fainted right before seeing a man approaching Rin with a stick in his hands. He didn't have time to use his powers because in the next second he fainted. He is so scared now! Rin's life may be in danger! His own life is in danger because when Lord Sesshomaru will find out...
" Jaken!"
" L...Lord Sesshomaru..."
" I've sniffer your blood. Where is she? Where is Rin? Jaken, I've asked you a question!"
" He took her! I am sorry, Lord Sesshomaru! I've tried to protect her, but I failed. He took her."
" Who took her?"
" A man dressed like he is in the army. He had a stick in his hands. I suppose he hit Rin to take her from here. I wanted to use my powers, but someone hit me too. I am so sorry, Lord Sesshomaru! Please, spare my life!"
Sesshomaru doesn't listen to Jaken anymore. He saw the ribbon that Rin had in her head on the ground. He takes it and clenches the fist. He grunts.
" Rin. I'll find you."
When Rin opens her eyes, she finds herself surrounded by trees. She is in the forest. How did she get there? Oh, yes! Genji betrayed her. Rin wants to feel anger, but she can't. Judging by his last expression, he was probably threatened to trick her. He was so scared and sad.... She doesn't need to see who is the man whose voice can be heard the loudest. She has never heard his voice until now, but she is sure he is. A man is cutting the rope which tied her and takes her by her arm. Rin bites him. The man screams. A laugh is heard in the silence of the forest.
" Look who is dangerous! Do you usually bite, beautiful?"
" Please, don't call me like that."
" Oh, but you are so beautiful." the shogun is touching her cheek with his index finger. Rin couldn't feel more disgust. " I can see that you are a woman by now. I see it..everywhere."
Rin gulps. She is scared, but she doesn't want to show it. She knows what will happen. She heard stories of women who refused powerful men and happened the same. This is the easiest way to humiliate a woman and sentencing her to a life without any partner. No man would touch a woman who was already touched. The shogun is getting closer.
" Now, don't look like that. You'll like it, you'll see. Now, let your head down in front of me and maybe I will give you a husband from my men."
Rin stands taller than ever. The shogun is red by anger.
" You stupid girl! After I finish with you, my men will enjoy you. You'll see! You'll not be able to raise your head off the ground after that!"
' Sesshomaru-Sama, please, come!'
" Now, little girl...." the shogun is touching her kimono " come and make me happy!"
" SESSHOMARU-SAMA!"
Rin closes her eyes when she screams and she doesn't see how the shogun is thrown in the air by someone's fist. She hears, though, the clenches of a dozen of swords taken out and then she opens her eyes. Lord Sesshomaru is standing right next to her, proud, strong and beautiful.
" Sesshomaru-sama...forgive me..I didn't listen to you... I've tried to help.."
" Don't say one more word, Rin. Come."
Sesshomaru takes Rin into his arms and puts her at the highest of a tree. She is confused. She thought they will be gone from there, but her Lord Sesshomaru has returned to the ground after he made sure she is safe. He stays right in the middle of the shogun and his men. They are 12. He is 1, but Rin knows he can easily defeat them. She is peaceful.
An ashigaru attacks, but when Rin sees Sesshomaru's counterattack her heart is beating extremely fast. Sesshomaru took the arrow between his fingers and throws it back. He then punches right in his face a man, when another is hitting him in his back. For some reason, Sesshomaru doesn't use his demonic powers. What is he doing?!?
" You demon! Have you lost your powers? You think that we are so weak that we can't handle you?"
" I am sure of that. Using my demonic powers on you, worms, would be a waste. You've dared to touch Rin...You wanted to...YOU WANTED TO!"
This is the first time Rin hears Seshsomaru screaming at someone.
" I will destroy all of you with my bare hands. I will have this pleasure and enjoy having your filthy blood on my hands. You are the real demons here. And you will pay for thinking to touch MY RIN in that way!"
His Rin? What did he want to say with ' his Rin'?
" Don't be so surprised, Rin. Lord Sesshomaru's feelings for you have developed a lot. He is not the demon I've used to know."
" Jaken-sama! A-Un! What are you saying, Jaken-sama?"
" I will say no more. You and Lord Sesshomaru will talk after he finishes with those trashes. I will only tell you this, Rin: if you accept, your life will not be an easy one and you'll be facing challenges that you wouldn't have thought of in your life. Only with trust and love you'll face them. Do you understand?"
" I..I understand, Jaken-sama."
" Good. Now, let's watch how Lord Sesshomaru is kicking that fools asses."
In less than 5 minutes, the shogun and his men are on the ground. Sesshomaru takes Rin in his arms and go from there. Jaken and A-un are leaving too.
" Jaken! Go."
" Yes, Lord Sesshomaru. Rin.." with a bow, Jaken leaves.
Here they are: face to face, a few meters apart, looking straight into each others' eyes like they would look into their souls. Sesshomaru's eyes are angry but calm at the same time. Rin knows why. She tries to smile to calm him and he makes a shocked face, but then he calms down. Rin smiles for real now. She has this effect on him!
" Rin" Sesshomaru is getting closer ...and closer...and...
Rin forgot how to breathe. Is this happening? Lord Sesshomaru has his strong arms wrapped around her as his life would depend on this. On her! He is hugging her! Rin stays for a second with her hands raised like she doesn't know what to do with them, but then something inside her takes the lead and she touches his back. She has never done this. His body is warm. Rin wraps even tighter. She buries her nose in the crook of his neck. He smells nice, like dreams come true and home. She wants to stay like this forever, but Lord Sesshomaru is breaking away and looks at her.
" I was scared."
Rin wasn't prepared for this.
" I was thinking...I don't know what I could have done if something bad happened to you."
Rin feels Sesshomaru's fingers whipping something of her face. She realises that she has been crying.
" Rin....I've wanted to ask you something...besides shogun..forget about him for a moment if you can. Do you want to start a family here? With a human boy? *Have you grown accustomed to life in the village? No one is bullying you or anything? Did you make a kimono out of the cloth that I gave you the other day?" Rin nods " When you are troubled, or anxious, or sad, or any other time, feel free to call on me, Sesshomaru. I will come to you immediately. Even if we are far apart, if you call my name I will absolutely come flying to you. If you cannot speak, you can whistle. Whistle through your fingers, if you like. " Rin feels her eyes are filling again with tears. Her knees are starting to let her down and she feels her heart in her throat. Sesshomaru cannot.. "Distance is no object. Our hearts are tied together." Her tears are a river on her face now. She smiles with all her heart. But he does! " With the power of trust, there is nothing to fear. Simply having that feeling would be enough to fil your heart. That is why it is fine for things to remain as they are for now. We have plenty of time. You can examine your heart at your own pace. Until then, take care of yourself.."*
With that, Sesshomaru went without hearing Rin's answer, who has immediately fallen onto her knees, crying and laughing at the same time. Lord Sesshomaru loves her! He told her in his own way that he loves her! Can she be happier?
Kagome pressed the STOP button of her recorder and came out of the tree to take Rin into her loving arms.
2 months later...
" So... what was that?"
" Inuyasha, I think it was a PROPOSAL."
" Kurobozu? Sankon tessou!"
" IDIOT! What have you done?"
" Well, I am..I was destroying the kurobozu."
" Kurobozu, kurobozu...osawari! It wasn't a kurobozu, square-head. It was a PROPOSAL. That means marriage in English, a language I've used to learn in the modern era. That means he wants to marry her."
' MARRY HER? RIN? But...but....aaaaarrrghhh, he will destroy that sweet girl's life."
" Don't be like that, Inuyasha! I really think he loves her. If we know something about Sesshomaru, is that he never let anyone hurt Rin. He wouldn't do anything to harm her. Also, 2 months have passed and he still hasn't returned. He lets her decide on her own which is amazing. A few men let women decide for themselves in this era. Rin is wise. She learned her lesson. She will make the best decision for them both."
" So, if that was 2 months ago, why do you show me this today, Kagome?"
Kagome smiles. " I don't know. I feel something will happen."
PREVIEW OF CHAPTER 2
Rin is sure of her decision. She knows it. She wants this. So when she sees Lord Sesshomaru approaching her hut with Jaken and A-Un, she takes the ribbon out of her hair, letting it down. Jaken and Sesshomaru look shocked,
" Jaken-sama...can you let me talk with Sesshomaru-sama alone?"
" Yes, Rin......sama"
Rin makes small, but certain steps to Sesshomaru.
" I've thought. I am decided. I was from the first second, but you left and I couldn't tell you my decision."
" I wanted to let you time to think, Rin. After what had happened, it wasn't the right time. You were in shock."
" I know your intentions.... but what I feel is not for 2 months. I've refused all of my suitors with a reason. I've wanted to spend all my life alone because I knew that...that I couldn't be with the only man I've ever loved. That's you, Sesshomaru. It was always you."
Sesshomaru takes Rin into his own. He takes to his mouth and kisses it. Rin blushes.
" Are you sure? Life with me is not easy."
" I know that. I'd rather spend a difficult, but full of love life beside you, Lord Sesshomaru, then an easy one, with no danger, but no love."
Sesshomaru puts his hands on her waist. " Rin....only ' Sesshomaru' for you."
Rin cannot say what she wanted because Sesshomaru's soft lips are locking on her own. Their first kiss. Rin lets her eyes opened only for one second before closing them to look at the sakura tree where she has been so many times, thinking of the man that is now in her arms. The flowers are gone, but the cherries are full and red and Rin knows this is the symbol of her new life: the sakura tree, which blossoms so beautiful and fragile and then grows strong and full. She closes her eyes and gives her heart and trust completely to Sesshomaru, from this moment to the rest of her life!