InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ Puppy Love ❯ Puppy Love ( Chapter 2 )

[ X - Adult: No readers under 18. Contains Graphic Adult Themes/Extreme violence. ]

Chapter Two

Sita carried a breakfast tray in one hand, heading down the hall to Rin's quarters. Reaching the door, she gave it a sharp knock. "Rin sweetie, breakfast," she called.
Sesshoumaru's eyes sprang open as he heard Sita's voice come through the door. Grudgingly, he gently eased Rin off of him and into the impression his body had left in the mattress. He picked up his kimono and slid it on, before stalking over to the door and opening it as silently as possible. "Enter but be quiet," he said, ignoring the look on Sita's face, "she sleeps still and there is no reason to wake her.”
Sita frowned and entered, silently closing the door with a soft click. “I take it you completely overlooked my suggestion of letting her sleep,” Sita said softly, moving to place the food tray on the bedside table.
“Indeed I did,” the inuyoukai replied, sitting on the end of Rin's bed. “I thought I had made it clear last night that I had made my decision.”
“Yes, I can see that. Well if there’s one thing you surpass your father in, its stubbornness,” Sita replied glancing over to the sleeping Rin. Her face was a little flushed.
“If she falls ill, it'll be your fault. She looks to have the beginnings of a cold already.”
“I am willing to accept that. However I believe it more likely to be exhaustion. Chances are she will be asleep for a few more hours yet.”
“Well that works in your advantage; or did you conveniently forget that the three ladies will be arriving to spend winter in the castle as always; and I seriously doubt you'll be able to keep Rin from meeting them this time around,” Sita said a bit bitterly. Akemi was fine; and Nanako was rather tolerable, but Marako was rather unbearable and would not be likely to take it well if Rin was given a higher status than concubine.
“I am aware. Aside from Marako I doubt there will be much disturbance. And if Marako causes Rin any discomfort or harm, I will make it quite clear to her that such trouble will be more than her worth,” he replied, a glint appearing in his eyes. Marako was a strong-willed woman and that was what enticed the inuyoukai so much; but she was also spiteful and vindictive, and he had no place in heart for the likes of that. “I believe they have always sensed there was someone else on my mind these last few years. Once they meet Rin I've no doubt there will be commotion but I am confident that they will in time accept this.”
“True; but how will Rin take to them? And will you truly not touch them again? As a human Rin can only take so much,” Sita asked.
“This is true,” Sesshoumaru sighed. He knew it was the right thing to do but deep down he knew he was going to miss sharing their beds; at least for a little while. “I will be abstaining from all three of them from this moment on. They were each made well aware of what would happen should I find a life partner; they are bound by their agreement. And I don't know how Rin will take to them; although I suspect she and Akemi will become good friends.”
“Yes, Rin and Akemi will probably get along well… but I worry about Rin comparing herself to them. They are all very beautiful and each have great abilities. Nanako can create storms, Marako can control flame and Akemi is by far the greatest manipulator of plant life I have ever seen. Rin’s greatest joy in life is pleasing you, making you happy. It has been since you brought her back from the dead, and I have seen humans slip into a deadly depression over less.” She sighed. “I'm sorry my lord, I have grown very fond of Rin. I just hate to see her hurt; as would most of the other servants and local villages.”
Sita found herself staring at Rin. She was so young and had been through so much but her troubles were really only beginning.
“Also true. Although I often wonder what things may lay dormant in our Lady Rin. She possesses a strong intellect and cunning and a bravery I've not seen in years. Should she wish it I'm certain she can become powerful in her own right.” He smiled. “And should this affect her I intend to remind her that it is she and not the others that matter the most to me.”
“I know, my lord. So I take it Rin is in no way physically innocent anymore?” Sita asked in a teasing manner.
Sesshoumaru's cheeks took on a mild pink tinge, and he looked away for a moment. “No, she is not,” he confessed. A light went off in his head. “That reminds me. Sita, when you have a spare moment I would appreciate it if you brought me some-”
“- Of my special herb blends. Sesshoumaru, after over six hundred years of having concubines I would have thought you'd have known better,” she hissed, glaring at him. “The three ladies will be arriving by noon, which gives you about five hours to figure out how you’re going to introduce Rin to them and tell every one you've taken her as a life mate,” Sita said, leaving the room; grumbling under her breath and using several curses Sesshoumaru had not heard before in all his nine hundred years. Sita was more or less just upset she'd even thought he'd be any different from the other testosterone-blinded male in the vicinity.
Sesshoumaru sighed; he had thought that in all her years Sita would be aware that there are few that remain rational when indulging in physical pleasures, much less with their chosen partner. He sat down next to Rin and stroked her hair as she slept. “Rest, you will need your strength this day,” he whispered, knowing she couldn't hear him.
Seta hurried down the halls; slipping down the stone steps and into a small room where the walls were lined with pot plants. Moving to grab a pouch from a large wooden bowl and giving it a sniff, she moved; pouring the contents into one of the six clay bowls then moving to pick some more herbs from a glass jar in a cupboard in the back. “This should take the edge off, since this is for demon women,” she said, pouring half of the pouch’s contents from one bowl to another and adding a handful of the brown dried herbs from the jar; then she added some mint and tea leaves to it. Getting a fresh cloth pouch, she poured the mix into it then tied it off. “A cup or too of tea brewed from this should leave her body infertile for about a month,” Sita said, sniffing the bag; double-checking to see if it was the correct consistency before heading back up stairs; the pouch in pocket.

---Back in the bedroom---

Rin could feel herself waking up but really didn’t want to; groaning as her consciousness slowly returned to her. The first thing she noticed was the light streaming in from the window; far too bright to be sunrise which was when she was usually woken by a servant with breakfast. The next thing she noticed was that fact she was hungry.
Trying to move, she let out a hiss as she came to feel the pain in her lower body. It wasn’t too bad… easily overlooked and had just taken her by surprise. “Sesshoumaru-sama,” she called softly, once again trying to sit up and succeeding this time.
Sesshoumaru chuckled and gently tapped her shoulder. “I am behind you, Rin. Good morning.”
Rin turned her head to look at him. “Good morning Sesshoumaru-sama, sleep well?” Rin asked, smiling though her gaze dropped; a blush staining her cheeks as she remembered the events of the past day. “Kami-sama, it wasn’t a dream” Rin muttered to herself.
The inuyoukai smiled, hearing her. “No, I can assure you it wasn't, Rin. And I did sleep very well, thank you. You did as well, I trust?”
“Yes, Sesshoumaru-sama, very well” Rin said, before leaning in and kissing him on the cheek.
Sesshoumaru smiled and returned her kiss; drawing her lower lip into his mouth and tasting her. “I'm glad to hear it,” he said. He put a pillow behind her back and leaned her backwards onto it; kissing her passionately and then straightening up. “Sita has brought you breakfast, and she will return shortly with medicine for you. Once you have eaten there is something we must discuss, and we must do so before noon,” he said, smiling affectionately at her.
Rin looked up at him curiously “Medicine?” Rin asked, confused. She wasn’t sick; at least she didn’t think so. She felt fine.
Sesshoumaru blushed slightly; thankful he'd heard the telltale sound of Sita opening the door, still muttering. “As you recall I allowed my seed to enter you... you are not yet ready for childbirth. The medicine will render you infertile for a short time, as well as nullifying impregnation. It is a precaution.”
Rin nodded smiling up at him. He was so cute when he got all embarrassed.
The sound of the door opening caught her attention. Sitting up, she grabbed one of the blankets; wrapping it around herself as Sita entered “Oh, you’re awake. Good, I’ve got some special tea for you. It'll keep you from getting pregnant. No matter how grown up mentally you may be Rin, you'd probably die in childbirth,” Sita said bluntly, still a little miffed.
Moving to the breakfast tray she dropped the pouch into the clay teapot and putting the lid on. “Let that sit for a bit, then drink every drop,” she said simply shaking the pot softly to mix it before setting it down again.
Sesshoumaru smiled at Sita. “Thank you,” he said, mildly annoyed she was being so blunt but knew he deserved it. Sita gave a curt bow before leaving.
“Wow, she's really mad,” Rin said getting off the bed, picking up her kimono and slipping it on and looking over the tray. Just some rice, fruit and a pork bun. “So what did you need to tell me Sesshoumaru-sama?” Rin said before taking a bite of the bun.
Sesshoumaru sat down. “You recall that once a year I have three guests that visit the castle? I have always prevented them from meeting you... however, given last night's events I believe this year it will be a necessity for you to meet them. Also,” he said, feeling slightly guilty that this news was so last-minute, “said guests are arriving today. In five hours or so to be precise.”
“Marako the fiery fox, Nanako the graceful bat and Akemi the sweet sprite am I correct?” Rin asked , taking another bite of her bun. She had heard more than enough rumors about the three.
Sesshoumaru blinked, surprised; then he started to laugh. “As I have said before, you possess an intellect like no other. That is correct,” he said, amused. He shook the teapot gently and poured some of the sweet-smelling brew into a clay cup. “Once you have eaten and drunk we will prepare for their arrival,” he said fondly.
Rin finished the bun taking the drink and sculling it in a few quick gulps. “I'd have to be deaf not to know about them, they’re the main rumor topic. So why do I have to meet your concubines anyway?” Rin asked. She’d really rather not meet them. From what she'd heard they were all beauties beyond compare; and the thought of them judging her and looking down on her didn’t seem pleasant in the least.
The inuyoukai sighed. “Because there is one condition that none but I and my three concubines are aware of, and this is also what I must discuss with you.” He looked out of the window at the forest for a moment, then turned back to look Rin in the eye as she helped herself to more of Sita's tea.
“The condition is as follows... although they will still retain honor in my house, they will cease to be my concubines should I select a mate; a life partner. That is why I wish for you to meet them.”
Rin looked up at him confused, the bowl of rice in her hands. “What do you mean?” she asked, taking a few bites. She was really hungry; having not eaten much at dinner since she had gotten herself all depressed over silly little things.
Sesshoumaru smiled; although inside he felt a little awkward. It felt odd to be saying this. “I wish for you to meet them Rin, as I...” He took a breath. The chance of rejection was making him nervous. “I want you to be my mate,” he said, pink rising in his cheeks again.
Rin blinked, forgetting the chopsticks full of food half way to her mouth. “You want me to be your mate? As in a life partner?” she asked in disbelief before looking down and realizing she still had food in front of her. She ate the mouthful she was holding then putting the rest down.
Sesshoumaru nodded, fighting a strange urge to rub the back of his neck. “That is correct. I care for you greatly and wish to always be by your side; and to have you by mine.” He sat there, his blood pounding in his ears as he wondered what her answer would be.
She looked at him for a moment “Oh Kami-sama you’re serious,” Rin said looking at the floor. “If I said yes would you be free to seek another after my death?” Rin asked.
Sesshoumaru sighed; he had been dreading this question. “That depends on the nature of our mating. Of course, there are ways you can attain long life and even immortality should you choose to seek them. And yes, I am serious,” he said, looking at her with what he hoped was a calm expression.
“Nature of our mating?” Rin repeated, suddenly unsure of where this was going.
Sesshoumaru sighed again; yet another topic he'd been hoping to avoid for the time being. “In order for us to be mated we must be marked.” Seeing the look of confusion on her face, he took a deep breath and continued. “There are four marks; three of which are intended for mated pairs. The first mark is the courting mark. It will only stay on your body for as long as you are betrothed. If it is replaced with one of the other marks or if the engagement is called off it will disappear. It marks you as spoken for and will prevent others from courting you.” He counted the marks off on his fingers as he continued. “The first mark is known as the Slave mark. Whoever bears this is subject to his or her mate’s will. If they fail to follow their mate's wishes, they will suffer emotional pain until they do. It’s used mostly in matings based on a strong master and slave relationship. Although this is irrelevant as I have no intention of using it.”
He flexed his fingers and continued. “The second mark is called the Life mark. The one marked with this cannot father children if they are male and cannot be impregnated if female, by anyone but their mate. Should their mate perish, the mark will remain and from that point onwards the widowed will be unable to have children.” He sighed; his father had chosen this mark for himself when he had mated himself to Inuyasha's mother. “The final mark is called the Future mark; and is nearly identical to the Life mark. The difference between the two however, is that the Life mark is eternal. Should one partner die, the Future mark will be broken; allowing the one marked with it to conceive children with another, but will be forever marked as widowed.”
“I see” Rin said, taking in the new information. “Then of course I'll be your mate, but I don’t the problem from using the slave mark, it doesn’t seem that different from how I feel now,” Rin said.
Sesshoumaru was shocked by this. “You... you feel as if... you mean to say that you already feel like that?” He turned away, surprise and frustration welling up within him. Where had he started this? At which point did he make her feel as if she was his property?
Rin looked up at him in confusion. “Sesshoumaru-sama, did I say something wrong?”
Sesshoumaru turned back to face her, a look of shock and self-loathing on his face. “What did I do to make you feel that way Rin? What did I do that made you feel like my servant and not my companion?”
He turned around so that Rin wouldn't see his face morph into an expression of rage. The woman he loved saying she wouldn't mind the Slave mark because she already felt they were in place? He was utterly furious with himself.
“Sesshoumaru-sama you didn’t do anything to make me feel that way; and that’s what confuses me. From the day I took my first breath for the second time all I've ever wanted was to make you happy and be of use to you and every time it seemed like I wasn’t I felt so useless… it hurt knowing I was burdening you. The worst was when I found out Naraku had gotten away ‘cause you had come to save me. I try my best to be useful to you and when it seems I've failed it hurts. You said that’s what it felt like to have the lave to feel emotional pain if you go against their wishes, that’s how I've always felt and it only got worse when we came here in the castle. All I did was get in the way and cause trouble like when we first arrived you ended up killing several servants that tried to kill me when I had gotten lost… it seemed all I did was get into trouble and cause upset, I mean even now that everyone knows me… Ahun and I were practicing the blue jolt and ended up spooking a merchant caravan into going off the road the food deliveries were a day late because of me and that had all the servants in a panic. It just seems like everything I do just messes things up.”
Sesshoumaru shook his head. “Rin I have never cared what mistakes you have made. Mistakes are made so you can learn from them and not repeat them and you are doing well. And do you know why I came to save you? If you meant so little to me surely I would have left you to your fate. But I came for you because I value you much higher than that. I savour your very presence; surely last night's event must have shown that. You do make me happy; you make me deliriously happy. If you feel that is all you wish to do then you have fulfilled yourself and are not bound nor obligated to do anything more.” He reached out and held her hand. “I have saved your life before and in return you have shared mine. All I want is to spend it with you. Which is why I wish to be marked with Life. If we are to be mated then we shall be mated as equals; because you have proved yourself to be deserving of it many times over,” he said, squeezing her hand gently.
Rin pulled way, tears in her eyes and shaking “Sesshoumaru-sama I... I...” She shook her head violently. “I can’t do that!!” Rin said before running out the door.
“Wait, Rin!” Sesshoumaru raised his hand to stop her but he wasn't fast enough. He sat there for a moment, stunned. “What on earth just happened?” he muttered, not understanding. His face burning, he decided. He got up and walked out of the door; looking around the corridor he could see that there was nobody nearby, and he broke into a run; following the trail Rin's scent had made.
Rin slipped down one of the small stone spiral stairways the servants used; her sight blinded by her tears. Almost slipping several times, she reached the kitchens. Servants were moving about with their tasks. She tried to just walk out unnoticed but as always a certain bat was quick to spot her.
“Rin, what’s wrong? Why are you crying?” Shugi asked. Damn, what did Sesshoumaru do to her?? he thought bitterly. He had heard his lord in Rin’s bedroom clearly the previous night; he hadn’t told anyone, who'd believe him? He loved Rin; it wasn’t fair that Sesshoumaru got her when he could have any woman in the country and already had three concubines at his disposal. So why did he want a human girl? No matter how cute and sweet she was…
“It’s nothing, now I really must be going,” Rin said, trying to sidestep the bat.
Sesshoumaru dropped down the stairs to the kitchen and spotted Rin near the servant's entrance, blocked by a particular bat demon. He wanted to talk to Rin; wanted to know what was bothering her, what had upset her so badly. He sighed, deciding to let Rin to own devices and follow her. He disliked having to use such a tactic on her, but he doubted she would tell him.
“You,” he said, pointing at the demon and speaking in his more usual, regal tone. “Lady Rin is trying to go outside. You are blocking her. Get out of her way,” he said, allowing a slight growl to come into his voice; he did not trust this child.
Shugi looked up at him his silver eyes forced not to narrow into a glare. “I was simply asking her why she was crying, since when has that been a crime?” Shugi asked him defiantly. He was more then a little mad; Rin was in tears running way from her home and it was all happening after he has heard Sesshoumaru in her bedroom doing - gah don’t go there, he thought viciously to himself before stepping aside out of Rin’s way; who was now looking at him in disbelief and glancing between the two before taking off.
God, I hope Sesshoumaru doesn’t kill him, she thought. She would have stuck around to make sure he didn’t; but she just couldn’t do that. She needed a moment to get her thoughts straight.
Back in the kitchens, the inuyoukai glared at the bold bat demon. “That's not a crime. Barring her passage is debatable. And should you hinder her in any way again I will make sure your father is made aware of what you do in your spare time,” he said dangerously, sending the young demon the memory of Sita warning Sesshoumaru of the young demon's frequent trips to Rin's bedroom door. “You have work to do if memory serves; now get out of my sight.”
Shugi couldn’t stop the glare that came to him. Turning on his heel with a sharp squeak that was sure to hurt the dog demon’s ears - it sure hurt his; he walked off to continue his duties.

**Meanwhile, outside…**

Rin made it to Ahun’s stables; the dragon snoozing on the straw bedding but waking instantly as she entered the stall. The sight of her tears quickly had him alert and on edge.
“Hey Ahun, calm down, I'm fine,” she barely managed to say before she broke back into sobs. Ahun moved closer, nuzzling her gently.
“*sniff* I'm sorry Ahun... things *hic* are just getting so out of hand… Oh Kami-sama, what am I going to do? Sesshoumaru wants me to be his mate and that fantastic but he... he wants me to mark him with Life…”
She sat down; Ahun lay curled up to her. “But I can’t do that… all my life all I wanted to do was make him happy and do as he wishes me but I can’t do that… if I did it... it’d… dammit, it’d take everything from him! I don’t think he’s thinking clearly, I'm human and I will die eventually; far sooner then he ever will… he never thought he'd fall in love with me, it just happened… he's happy now, but if I mark him with Life I'd be taking away any chance for him to fall in love again, to have the second chance like my mom did with my stepfather… I've known Sesshoumaru for no more than seven years and in that short time he fallen in love with me! How can he want me to take away any chance of him feeling like this again after my death, of falling in love and having a child? I simply can’t do it… I guess some find the Life mark romantic and such but it seams emotionally barbaric to me…” Rin said hugging Un as he nuzzled up to her.
Sesshoumaru perched on top of the stable roof, intently listening to Rin talking to the young dragon. So that was it. Didn't she realise? He wouldn't ever love anyone else as much as he loved her; and if she were to become a sage or something else arcane she would age at the same rate he did. He wouldn't need the second chance if he had his way; and if he didn't he wouldn't want the second chance at all.
He sighed. He had to tell her this; that he knew what it meant and he didn't care; he just wanted to be with her. Steeling himself, he stepped off the roof and walked into the stable.
Ah looked up at the demon as he entered, giving a nudge to Rin. She looked up, turning around to see Sesshoumaru there.
“Sesshoumaru-sama, I…” She trailed off and looked back down at the ground. He must have heard me, she thought to herself.
“Rin,” he said, speaking softly and staying where he was. “I overheard you talking to Ah-un. Truth be told, I was eavesdropping. And I want you to know this. I know what the Life mark entails. And I do not care. I will not fall in love again, I promise you that. I don't want a second chance. I would rather spend the one lifetime with you then live out my own without. As I said, if you were to become powerful, and you have all you need to do so, it wouldn't matter anyway because then we would be able to face eternity together.” He came in closer and sat in front of her, brushing a tear away with one long finger. “I love you. I don't care what sacrifices I need to make to be with you. They don't matter to me. You do.”
Rin shook her head. “Dammit Sesshoumaru, listen to your self! How can you say stuff like that? Ten years ago if someone told you you'd fall in love with a human you'd have never believed it… you can’t tell how you'll feel ten, twenty or even a hundred years from now. You can’t say you'll never fall in love again after I die because you can’t control your emotions no matter how hard you try. That’s the whole point of falling in love. I'll do anything you ask of me, happily; anything but give you the life mark. I just can’t do it.”
“I can say it because that's how I feel, Rin. Look into my eyes and tell me if you see doubt there.” He stared into her brown eyes, still silently shedding tears. “I wouldn't ask such a thing of you if I wasn't certain, Rin. I have lived for hundreds of years already. I have felt love come and go, and never has it been as strong as it is now. I will not live one day longer than you, that I promise you.”
“Ever think I didn’t want such promises? Ever think that saying such things could hurt far worse then anything? …because that’s what's happening,” Rin said, tears falling.
Sesshoumaru reached out and embraced her; holding her tightly and letting her sob into his chest. Ahun gave him an odd look. “Then I won't. If that's what you want then I won't say such things. But I love you; enough to risk my life for yours, enough to give my life for yours, and enough to do everything in my power to see that you're happy. I want to be yours, that is all. If it means that much to you I will reconsider my choice on the Life mark, but please do not think of me and what I may feel in the future. My mind is made up; I will love you and only you for as long as I live,” he said, pressing his lips against her forehead.
Rin smiled, snuggling up to him. “Thank you Sesshoumaru, I promise it'll be the only thing I'll deny you,” Rin said, giggling at Ahun; who were now staring at each other in disbelief.
Sesshoumaru kissed her cheeks; using the kisses to wipe away her tears. “One can only hope,” he said, smiling at her.
Rin giggled but then stopped. “Oh no… Sesshoumaru-sama, what time is it?” Rin asked.
“It's only been thirty minutes or so since you began your breakfast, we have plenty of time. In any case we shouldn't waste any of it.” He stood up and offered her a hand to help her up. “Come, let us prepare ourselves.”
Rin took his hand and followed him, leaving a very confused Ahun in their wake. “So what must we do first?” Rin asked, her cheerier disposition back in place.
“There isn't much to do. We simply bathe and dress well. In your case you will need a token of some description; or we could simply mark each other with the courting mark. Aside from that the rest has already been taken care of.”
Rin nodded. “How does the whole marking thing work? It’s more than simply biting someone… I'm guessing it has something to do with youkai, but if that’s the case how is a human supposed to mark a demon?” Rin asked.
Sesshoumaru smiled at her. “They don't require much. All it takes to mark someone is a bite that draws blood and a simple transfer of energy; that is more to suffice. As you're human all you have to do is bite me; I can do the energy transfer for you.”
“Wait, I have to bite you hard enough to draw blood?” Rin asked, looking up at him with her eyes wide.
Sesshoumaru nodded. “In order to form a base for the mark, yes. The shape of your teeth are unique, and the marks they will leave are too. That is as bad as it gets, I assure you.”
“I see… and I have to do it twice right? One for the courting mark and again to place the Future mark… and you'd have to do the same to me right?” Rin asked, a little nervous.
“Yes, but there's no need to place the Future mark right away. Traditionally the courting mark is worn for a period of one week; after that the couple can mark each other with one of the three mating marks at any time. It's actually dangerous to attempt to before the time is up. So yes we will need to repeat the process, but not straight away,” he replied.
“I'm okay with you marking me; I've been ripped apart by wolves so a couple of bites on the neck seem pale in comparison… but I really wish I had sharper teeth right now,” Rin said, running her tongue over her teeth. They were pretty much blunt with some rough edges.
“The marks don't have to be on the neck,” Sesshoumaru said. “They can be placed anywhere-” As he realised what he said he was torn between slapping his forehead and grinning evilly. “Which means if you prefer to keep it hidden unless necessary to show it, it can be placed anywhere, for example on the arm or stomach.”
“But isn’t the neck the traditional place? And why would I want to hide it?” Rin asked, subconsciously touching her neck.
“I wouldn't say the neck is the traditional place,” Sesshoumaru replied. “However it is the most preferred. And to answer your other question,” he smiled and leaned in, whispering into her ear, “you may not have a choice but to hide it, depending on its location...”
Rin shivered. “Let’s just stick to the neck, okay?” she said, not liking the sound of that suggestion. “Unless you’d rather have it in a different place,” she added, blushing; thoughts of just where he'd put it running through her mind.
“To be honest, I would prefer to place it,” he lightly trailed his fingers down the side of her neck, “here.” His fingertips rested a couple of inches below her collarbone, just above the heart and barely touching the ridge of her breast. “Hidden for the most part and not an embarrassment to reveal. Does this suit you?”
Rin placed her hand over his. “It suits me just fine Sesshoumaru-sama… I want to mark you here.” She placed her fingertips on the bottom of his neck where it met the shoulder. “I found myself paying a little more attention to this spot on your neck for some reason, so it seems like a good place for the mark. Is it okay?” Rin said, looking up at him.
In answer the inuyoukai wrapped his arms around her and kissed her. “That is fine, Rin,” he said, smiling. “Now, we really should go and ready ourselves for the arrival of our guests,” he said, although deep down he decided he'd rather stay there holding her.
“Hai Sesshoumaru-sama, but I think it’d be best to get the marking done first,” Rin said, offhandedly smiling.
“Then I would suggest we retire to my quarters for the time being. Although simple, marking is regarded as an act of great intimacy; and we'd be likely to send the castle into an uproar were we found elsewhere,” he said, smiling wryly.
Rin nodded giggling. “Well, let’s go then,” she said, taking off into the castle. Laughing, she entered the kitchen; taking the same route she had used to get out.
Sesshoumaru nodded to Ahun and followed her, noting the bat demon furiously peeling potatoes; totally oblivious to them as he passed through the kitchen. He caught up to Rin waiting for him outside the heavy double doors that led to his own personal quarters; a small library, the contents of which had been his father's, a luxurious foreign bathroom and a large bedroom.
“The door's enchanted to allow only me,” he explained. “Once you're marked it will open for you too.” He passed one hand across the lacquered wood and they silently swung inwards. “After you,” he said, smiling.
Rin nodded; entering the room and looking around. This had been the first time in there it made hers look tiny. “I didn’t know you had a library?” Rin said simply.
“To be fair, it's technically my father's. All of the books are from his own library and many are written by him. He left them all to me when he died,” he said. “This is where all records of my land are kept, as well as my personal collections and several of Jaken's spellbooks. You know what they say, knowledge is the purest form of power,” he said offhandedly.
“I see… wow… and spellbooks huh? I like the sound of that,” Rin said with a smirk. “So what now?” she asked, looking at him once again.
“Well, who goes first?” he asked, walking through a doorway and sitting on a large, white bed.
Rin followed. “Umm… you mark me first?” she suggested, sitting on the bed next to him.
“If that's what you wish,” Sesshoumaru replied, indicating she should sit down in the centre of the bed. “You can be marked while sitting, standing or lying down. I personally believe it to be easier if they aren't standing,” he said.
Rin moved to lay down in the center of the bed; loosening the collar of her kimono and waiting for Sesshoumaru to do the rest.
“All you need to do is allow my energy to enter you,” he said. “Do not resist it; and try to imagine it merging with your own energy and becoming part of you. Then it will be your turn to mark me,” Sesshoumaru said as he gently slipped his hands into the front of her kimono. He cupped both of her breasts for a moment and then opened her kimono, exposing them and her flat stomach.
He lay down at an angle, his left hand idly tracing around her stomach. “This will most likely hurt, though it won't for long,” he said, kissing her throat. “Are you ready?”
Rin giggled as his hands wandered over her body. “Yes; like I said, this is nothing compared to what I've been through,” Rin said, smiling up at him.
Sesshoumaru smiled. He lightly blew on her throat and kissed it; and began kissing and licking his way down across her collarbone and to the center of her sternum. He playfully licked her breast and nipple for a few moments, then moved up to the spot just above it where he intended to mark her; kissing and gently teasing her with her teeth. He lapped his tongue over the spot repeatedly until it was wet and shining with his saliva; and then he placed his teeth against it and bit into her. He felt his fangs pierce her soft skin and he heard her gasp; as the sweet metallic tang of blood entered his mouth.
Rin relaxed as he once again kissed and teased her body before stopping on the spot gasping as the sharp fangs pierced her skin; the sharp pain shooting through her. She grit her teeth against it, trying to relax.
Sesshoumaru closed his eyes, feeling his youkai energy uncoil within him. He imagined it flowing from every part of his being and gently seeping into Rin into the wounds he made; leaving his body through his teeth and entering hers. He didn't force it into her, but instead allowed it to flow into her slowly. As his energy mixed with hers and the taste of blood filled his mouth, he became less aware of his surroundings and more and more aware of Rin. He could see little but the pale pink of her skin; but it was as if he could feel everything she did. A cold burn quietly blazed just below the left side of his collarbone, painful and yet somehow exhilarating; and his heart beat strangely; as if every beat had an echo.
Gradually, the feeling lessened and lessened. The burning sensation in his chest faded away. Sesshoumaru moved himself upwards to look down at the marks he'd left. A small ring of triangular punctures oozed blood; the bottom half of the ring on the top of her left breast. As he watched, the wounds closed right in front of him; tiny tendrils of smoke escaping as they were healed by Sesshoumaru's youkai energy; now Rin's. Her skin was unblemished now; as if he had never bitten her. To complete the marking, he tenderly kissed the spot where the center of his bite marks had been. Slowly, a red shape formed; hazy at first but becoming more and more defined. It was a crescent moon identical to the one on his forehead; only a brilliant bright pink like a birthmark.
Rin was breathing hard. The pain was gone; replaced with a warm, slight burning sensation where he had bitten her; the feeling completely fading not long after Sesshoumaru had kissed the spot he had bitten.
Reaching up to touch the spot he had bitten, Rin was surprised to find there was no wound but a crescent moon marking, just like the one on Sesshoumaru’s forehead. It was sensitive and tingled under her touch “Sesshoumaru-sama?”
The inuyoukai blinked a few times; the act of permanently transferring part of his energy to Rin had left him rather light-headed. “Yes, Rin?”
“I… oh uh, nothing. I guess it’s my turn,” Rin said, sitting up, staring at the mark. “Well, it’s my favorite color at least,” she said with a giggle.
He sat down on the bed, loosening the front of his kimono and slipping it down. Naked from the waist up, Sesshoumaru closed his eyes and tilted his head to the side. “All you need do once your teeth are in place is to will your own energy, your spirit; to enter and merge with mine. Do not force it; let it do so slowly.”
Rin nodded, moving to sit in his lap and gripping his shoulders. “Okay, so I just bite until I draw blood before imagining our energy merging, but don’t force it right?” she said, looking up at him. Here goes nothing, she thought to herself; leaning in and kissing the spot once then placing her teeth over it and putting as much force into the bite as she could. She was surprised; the skin gave way easily enough and the strong taste of his demonic blood entered her mouth; seeping from the shallow indents her human teeth had left.
Sesshoumaru shivered as she kissed him and bit into his flesh; her teeth surprisingly sharper than he'd expected and piercing his skin easily. He heard a soft moan escape Rin's lips; probably caused by the taste of his blood. Ignoring the pain, he sighed and kissed her hair, feeling the heat from her breath mix with the warmth of his blood.
Rin could feel his youkai energy against her aura, drawing her to him. She did as he had told her, concentrating on an image of the two merging; letting Sesshoumaru’s energy control the pace and amount that passed between the two.
Feeling Rin's aura reach out to him, he reached out with his own and pulled it to him gently, guiding it into the oozing wounds Rin had inflicted on him. The cold burning returned; only now it was situated where Rin's teeth were; and his heartbeat again took on an echo - he realised it wasn't an echo but Rin's own heart beating.
Rin could hear her heart beating. At first it had been an echo but the two sounds got closer and closer to one another; becoming one. The sounds seemed to merge but at the same time she could tell they were two separate sounds, no matter how close together they beated.
Soon the sound faded and she found herself pulling away; watching as the wound healed in an instant. Giving it a soft kiss she pulled away and was surprised to see the mark had taken shape as a sakura blossom.
Sesshoumaru smiled as he felt Rin kiss where she'd bitten him. The burning faded away again; and reaching up to touch the mark he felt several round shapes; definetly not a crescent moon like he had been expecting. “Rin?” he asked. “What shape has my mark taken?”
“A sakura blossom… what shape was it supposed to take?” Rin asked, staring at the mark and still sitting in Sesshoumaru-samas lap.
“I expected it to take the same mark that you now bear; as you are a human.” He frowned. “It does not cause me concern, although it is still a puzzle...” He hugged her; her warm weight in his lap reminding him of what they'd gotten up to not a full day ago. “If we are finished in here we should prepare ourselves,” he said, kissing her.
“How does me being human affect the marks’ shape?” Rin asked confused, shifting a bit in his lap.
Sesshoumaru twitched; she had accidentally rubbed herself against his dormant length when she had moved, sending a small spark through him. “As the marking ritual is intended for demons, it makes extensive use of our youkai energy. When marking a human, although they too have spirit energy they have no youkai energy of their own. When I marked you some of my youkai energy became yours; which means my mark should have taken the shape of its original owner.” He paused, thinking for a second. “Instead however it took on a unique shape; and yet you are human. Perhaps you truly do have a great potential and your spirit is a sign of that; or perhaps my youkai unlocked or triggered something within you. He shrugged, smiling. “In any case, we are marked now. We are betrothed.”
Rin nodded, snuggling up to him and shifting quite a bit to do so. “Sakura blossoms are my favorite flower; same as my mother and brothers. I'm glad it’s taken that shape, whatever the reason. You’re not put off by the shape the mark has taken are you?” she asked. I really hope not…
He shook his head, his length beginning to become aroused by the near-constant movement. “It does not bother me in the slightest,” he said, wrapping his arms around her. “Truth be known I'm rather pleased it's taken a form that is familiar of you.”
Rin flung her arms around his shoulders, hugging him tight. “Oh Sesshoumaru, I'm glad you like it,” Rin said, giving him a kiss on the cheek, right on one of his markings.
The inuyoukai shuddered; Rin had kissed one of his youkai markings and his entire body trembled. His arousal was now full; and he hoped Rin wouldn't brush against him and realize it. He kissed her lips hungrily, wanting to alleviate some of the internal pressure she'd caused. “I love it,” he breathed. “Thank you Rin...”
“I'm glad you like it. And it looks really cute… like a sakura had landed on you,” Rin said, smiling and moving to get off; brushing his arousal as she did so.
Now kneeling on the bed, she looked at Sesshoumaru. Oh man, he's aroused… well of course, I kissed his markings, Rin thought, now blushing. “I'm sorry Sesshoumaru-sama…”
The inuyoukai exhaled, closing his eyes a little. “It's fine, Rin. Although I thought I had told you that my demon markings are extremely sensitive? And you were sitting in my lap as well. It seems I have very little control over myself,” he said, smiling a little.
Rin hung her head “I'm really sorry Sesshoumaru-sama, I should have been more careful…” She looked way for a second before speaking softly. “I'm still sore from last night but I could do what I did before Sita interrupted us…”
Sesshoumaru thought hard for a moment; weighing up his choices as his burning member throbbed and pulsed within his kimono. “Would you?” he asked, opening his eyes; his breathing was becoming a little faster and a strong pink tone had settled under his eyes. “If something is not done I will be like this for hours, and we haven't the time...”
Rin nodded; looking up at him and smiling before leaning up and kissing him on the lips and breaking away. “So how should we do this?”
Sesshoumaru bit his lip in an effort to make himself breath slower. “Perhaps it would be best if you...” He took a breath and rephrased himself. “Rin, could I ask for you to do as you wished? I'm afraid that my desire for you is quite overwhelming. If I were to try to help I would get... carried away...” he said, embarrassed but speaking quickly.
Rin looked up at him, concern shining in her eyes before taking a determined look. “Hai Sesshoumaru-sama,” she said, kissing down his neck as her hands went to untie the knot that held his pants closed. Stopping to suckle on the sakura marking as she got the tie undone and slipped them open; his member now free of its confines stood tall.
She wrapped her small hand around it and gave it a stroke as she moved on from sucking on the mark down his chest with sweet nips and kisses.
A low growl came from Sesshoumaru's throat as Rin wrapped her hand around him. Her hand felt hot around him and he could feel his length throbbing against her skin. He made himself lean back against the headboard of his bed, digging his claws into the sheets a little to make sure they stayed by his sides. “Rin...” he murmured, the heat in his cheeks worsening. “That feels wonderful...”
Rin had stopped at the growl, but with his words she continued with her ministrations; her hand setting an even pace, stroking from base to tip; nipping and suckling one nipple as one hand dropped to touch the markings on his hips. Her other hand gently gripped onto his shoulder.
His body trembled again; and he involuntarily bucked his hips. The sensation of Rin nipping and administering to his chest was addictive, but when she touched his markings it was as if his world froze around him for a split second.
Rin left his chest, kissing down to his navel before pulling away, still stroking. She stopped and leaned in to give the tip a teasing lick, tasting the precum before suckling on it, starting to stroke him again slowly, her hands stroking his hip marks randomly.
The inuyoukai exhaled slowly, fighting to keep control of himself. The tip of his length was wrapped in Rin's lips and she was gently suckling it and teasing it with her tongue while her hand moved up and down to stroke the rest of his arousal. He kept himself leaning back, and gave himself in to what Rin was doing; allowing himself to lean back and do nothing but enjoy her ministrations to him.
Rin took him into her mouth, sucking hard and driving her tongue into the slit at the top. One hand was still stroking his markings while the other came to cup his balls, giving them a soft squeeze.
Sesshoumaru bit his lip; drawing blood again as Rin's tongue pushed into the tiny slit in his tip and slid all over his most sensitive part while her hand continued to toy with the markings on his hip, sending a shudder through him every time. A soft sound escaped his lips when she applied gentle pressure to his balls with her free hand; and he bucked his hips a little and moved his legs apart slightly, the pleasure beginning to get stronger.
Rin went with the movement when he bucked; not choking too much, swallowing around him. She ran her tongue around the bulbous head, flicking across the tip and massaging his balls in the palm of her small hand gently before going back to the markings on his hips.
Sesshoumaru groaned. His tip was slippery with Rin's saliva due to her tongue circling around it as she suckled on it; her teeth occasionally touching the sides of it. She kept massaging his youkai markings and squeezing him; and Sesshoumaru drew in his breath sharply as he felt the inevitable pressure of his climax begin building inside Rin's mouth and spreading down. “R-Rin,” he said, his breath ragged. “I will reach my peak soon...” He had told her to warn her; remembering how she had coughed and gagged the night before when he had come into her mouth; however he soon lost all ability to think as the pleasure kept increasing and growing stronger.
Rin's first thought was to pull way and finish him off with her hands alone; but instead she drove her tongue back into the slit, picking up the pace of her stroking. Trying something new, she started to hum.
He gasped out loud. Rin had started humming as she continued to suckle on the head of his length; the vibrations making his body tremble and shiver uncontrollably as she kept stroking his markings and massaging him. The pressure built up until it nearly hurt. Sesshoumaru held it back for as long as he could but before long his self-control failed him; and with a cry he came in Rin's warm mouth; his seed spilling into her mouth and onto her tongue even as it kept lapping against him as if she was trying to suck out every drop of him.
Rin tried to swallow it and keep sucking, but the taste was just too much. She pulled away gasping, resisting the urge to spit out the rest of the vile-tasting seed and instead forcing herself to swallow it. Her head was hung, her long hair hiding the look of disgust. Getting him to orgasm is fun, but this stuff tastes just nasty, Rin thought to herself.
Sesshoumaru's breathing gradually returned to a more normal rate; his length shrinking back into its dormant state, a single drop of his semen still at its tip. He sighed in relief and retied his pants before wrapping his arms around Rin and pulling her onto him for a hug. “Thank you, Rin,” he said, nuzzling her.
Rin smiled “You’re welcome Sesshoumaru-sama. I found it rather fun anyway,” She said, snuggling into his embrace. “Even if I cant stand the taste.”
He held her, enjoying the feel of her weight on him. “I have been told the taste itself is rather pleasant; but the strength of it is overwhelming. Perhaps I will be able to find a way to lessen it,” he said, squeezing her a little tighter.
“My mother always told me, if it’s not broken don’t fix it. Don’t do anything to change yourself; not even the slightest. Anyway, I'd rather have you as you are naturally and put up with a bad taste,” Rin replied simply.
Sesshoumaru hugged her tighter; it was the answer he'd been hoping to hear. “As you wish, Rin,” he said, kissing her.
Rin kissed him back “I think we’d better get ready” she said, pulling away reluctantly.
“True,” Sesshoumaru replied, getting up and crossing to a large wardrobe. “By the way Rin. It is purely optional but if you wish I have some clothes for the occasion for you... they used to be my mothers, when she was younger; if you want them.”
Rin looked up at him in surprise before a smile came to her face. “Of course; it’d be an honor to wear them.”
He smiled and opened the wardrobe. Sitting on the bottom shelf was a plain wooden box. He took it out and set it on the bed. “She used to tell me she wore these the day she was mated to my father,” he said, undoing the lock. “However as I was watching in secret I never believed her.”
He threw back the lid and gently held up the contents for Rin to see. It was a beautiful white silk kimono; with detailed embroidery of a flower-covered vine spreading across the right side. On the left in place of the vine was a long, reptilian tail which curled around to the back and bloomed into a large, ferocious-looking dragon that was intertwined with the flowers as if they were in the middle of a heated battle. Water lashed beneath the dragon's feet in a storm; the roots of the vine reaching deeply into it. The white of the silk could barely be seen beneath the wondrous designs. “I've only seen her wear this once,” Sesshoumaru said, smiling fondly at Rin's stunned expression. “I would be honored if you wore this for me.”
Rin stared at the kimono. It was amazing. The pattern detailed perfectly; from ripples in the water to each individual scale on the dragon. “Sesshoumaru-sama, it’s beautiful. The honor is all mine,” Rin said, gently taking it from her lord.
Sesshoumaru smiled, and gently ran his fingers through her hair. “And there is no doubt in my mind that it will suit you,” he said. He turned back to the wardrobe, pulling out a spare armor piece; identical to the one he'd left in Rin's room. “Jaken will also be accompanying us; he will also be the first we must show our marks to as he is the only one able to declare them legitimate. Does this concern you?”
“No, it doesn’t concern me… though Jaken's going to really pop a vein when he finds out about this… wait, forget Jaken… Shugi and Kohaku are really going to lose it,” Rin said.
“That's very likely. However, it would be best if we didn't worry, about them at the present moment,” Sesshoumaru said, pulling a kimono very similar to his own, but decorated with blue instead of red out of the closet and turning his back on Rin. “We should first get ready, and then find Jaken,” he said, dropping the kimono he was wearing, leaving him totally naked for a moment.
Rin followed suit; dropping her kimono moving to put the other on… but she couldn’t help glancing back at him; his long silvery hair cascading down his back. Blushing she turned back, slipping the kimono on.
Sesshoumaru bent over to pick up something that he had been storing in the kimono, his hair slipping off his back and onto the floor. He straightened up and slipped into the new pants and the blue kimono; tying it with the sash and picking up the armor plate with his left hand. “I'm surprised to see you taking all of this in so easily, Rin. You truly are a marvel at times.”
“That or I'm just in shell shock and this is all going to catch up with me,” Rin said joking, looking back at him. Now wearing the kimono, it hugged her figure nicely; the color of the cloth contrasting with the her dark hair and tanned skin.
Sesshoumaru smiled at her. In the kimono she looked older, taller somehow... as if she wasn't a human but a youkai just like everyone else. “You look beautiful in it,” he said truthfully.
Rin smiled brightly, spinning around. “Thank you m'lord,” Rin said happily as she stopped, looking at the kimono on her body and smiling.
Sesshoumaru fastened the armor plate and turned around, smiling. “Well then. I would imagine that we still have four hours or so until their arrival; shall we go find Jaken? I imagine he would be in his study at present.”
“Hai” Rin said as she headed out the door and down the hall.
Sesshoumaru smiled, taking Tensaiga and Tokigen from their place on the wall and tying their scabbards to his waist before walking after her, carefully closing the door behind him. Jaken's study was near the top of one of the castle's three towers; Rin's room being in another and his father's sanctuary in the third. The third tower was off-limits to everyone except the lord himself; and he would be heading there with his future mate a little later, with Jaken in tow. But first they had to find the imp and wait for their guests. He walked after her, following her down the hall with a faint smile on his face. She truly did look beautiful in that kimono.
Rin took the steps two at a time, gripping the kimono to keep it off the floor and out of the way of her steps. She reached the top panting, despite the fact that the figure-hugging cut of the kimono didn’t constrict her breathing like some of her kimonos did.
Catching her breath, she took off down the hall; reaching the large wooden doors of the study.
Jaken looked up from the scroll he was reading at the sound of the large doors swinging open. “Have the guests arrived already, milord?” he asked, thinking it was Sesshoumaru who had entered. When the only sound he heard was a happy giggle, he sighed and stood up. “Rin? What is it I can -” His words died in his mouth as he saw Rin wearing an intricate white kimono bearing flowers and a leviathan dragon; he recognised the designs from one of his many books - a family crest, belonging to that of Sesshoumaru's late mother. “R-Rin?” he asked, stammering a little in his surprise. “Why is it you are wearing that? Does milord Sesshoumaru know that you are?”
Rin giggled, walking up to him. “Well he should, considering he asked me to wear it. Isn’t it pretty? It’s really smooth… I thought it was silk, but it’s almost too smooth to be… even the embroidery is smoooth and it’s really tight but it doesn’t seem to constrict my breathing or movements… I ran up the stairs in it with no problem, which would have been suicide in some of my kimonos... oh sorry, yeah, Sesshoumaru-sama knows,” Rin said, rubbing the back of her head. She really talked too much at times.
“That's good but you didn't answer my other question? Why is it you are wearing it?”
Rin giggled. “Like I said; because Sesshoumaru-sama asked me to. That, and it’s really pretty,” she said matter-of-factly.
Jaken gave her a look; there was definitely something she was not telling him. And why would Sesshoumaru-sama ask her to wear such an item? True there was no real problem, but it was odd; for him to suddenly ask right out of the blue...
Sesshoumaru entered the study; gently shutting the door behind him. “Good morning, Jaken. I trust the preparations for our guests have been made?”
Jaken nodded. “Aye, milord. The kitchen staff are preparing the welcoming feast and their rooms have been prepared.” He wanted to add “if they plan to use them,” but instead said something different. “Forgive me if I am intruding, but may I ask why Rin is wearing your mother's ceremonial kimono?”
Sesshoumaru shrugged his shoulders, smiling faintly. “Aside from my asking her to? Why not ask her?”
Rin looked from Sesshoumaru-sama and back to Jaken, then took a deep breath. “I'm wearing the kimono because I'll be meeting with Marako, Nanako and Akemi to announce the fact that Sesshoumaru-sama and I are to become mates. I already have the courting mark, as does Sesshoumaru-sama,” Rin said simply, with an even tone.
Jaken's jaw fell open; the Staff of Skulls falling out of his hand and clattering to the floor. “You... you're... milord, is this true??” he asked, turning to face Sesshoumaru in his shock.
Sesshoumaru sank into a crouch and pulled his kimono back a little; revealing the sakura-shaped mark. “It is indeed, Jaken. I have chosen to take Rin as my mate and she has accepted.”
Rin sat down next to Sesshoumaru. “Master Jaken, don’t you approve?” she asked, looking up at him with wide shimering eyes
Jaken took a step back. “I-It's not that I don't approve, it's just that I... that I...” He looked up at Sesshoumaru again. “I wasn't expecting this! Milord, are you quite sure about this? She's a hu-” He instantly shut up when he saw the look the inuyoukai was giving him. The look was saying hello, breakfast. “I'm, er, very happy for you of course,” he stammered. “Very happy, a wise decision milord Sesshou-”
Sesshoumaru raised one hand to indicate Jaken should stop. “Enough flattery, Jaken. We came to you so that you may authenticate our markings; as so to prevent rumors of illegitimacy.” Jaken nodded, picking up his staff. “Aye milord, I can do that. Now, hold still.”
He muttered a few things and lightly touched the Staff of Skulls to the sakura-shaped mark. Nothing happened. Jaken blinked and examined the staff, thouroughly confused. “What? I don't underst-” Suddenly the staff began to glow orange; Jaken dropping it in surprise. It remained upright however; and swiveled around so that the warped face of the old woman was facing Sesshoumaru; and split into a toothy smile.
Sesshoumaru frowned. “The old woman is smiling at me, Jaken.”
Jaken picked himself up and dusted his robes off, mildly annoyed with himself. “Then that means the mark is indeed genuine milord. The old woman represents new love and time among other things, so her smile means the mark is true. Were it a fake or made against your will it would have been the old man who would have responded.”
“If that was what was supposed to happen Master Jaken, why did you drop the staff in surprise?” Rin asked, confused.
“I was expecting an immediate reaction,” Jaken said, not happy to admit it. “And I know not why the staff was glowing, either... 'tis a strange sign indeed, I can only hope it was a favorable one.”
“Well, Sesshoumaru’s mark became a sakura blossom instead of a crescent moon like he had been expecting… weird things seem to be happening left right and center,” Rin said, loosening her kimono so she could bear her mark for inspection. Damn I'm glad he didn’t mark me in some of the other places he could have… or this would be more then a little unnerving, she thought to herself.
Jaken did his best not to stare too much as he lightly tapped the staff against the crescent-shaped mark. This time it responded instantly; the staff rotating in Jaken's hand so that the crone was facing Rin, smiling eerily. “That confirms it,” Jaken said, sighing. This was more drama than he cared for. “Your marks are both genuine. The Staff of Skulls is never wrong, I assure you. The two of you are bound to each other by the mark of courting, and woe to those who would seek to drive you apart.” He struck the base of the staff against the ground twice. The old woman burst into laughter; the staff making an odd buzzing noise. “Forgive the noise, milord; the staff is simply adding the evidence of the marking into the records,” he said over the din.
Rin clapped her hands over her ears, glaring at the staff. She had never liked the creepy thing; it looked plain scary and it hurt to be hit by it. Jaken had done that on many occasions when she was younger, purely for discipline; otherwise the imp wouldn’t have lived to tell the tale
The staff finally ceased the awful racket; the crone settling back into her usual place. Jaken clambered onto the desk and pulled down a large book bound in greenish leather. “See, milord?” he said, flipping it open at the last page. The words Taisho Sesshoumaru and Takahashi Rin had appeared near the bottom of the page, linked by a single golden line.
“Wow, how pretty… but how did it know both our names?” Rin asked, looking at the book as she started to retie her kimono.
“The staff is a powerful magical object. I don't know how it could have known your names but I do not question it nor doubt its accuracy,” he said, putting the book back on its shelf and jumping off the desk. “Milord Sesshoumaru, am I correct in assuming you wish for me to accompany you both when our three guests arrive?”
Sesshoumaru nodded. “You are. I think that our announcement will be met with much disbelief; I would ask of you to come with us as to provide proof.”
Jaken bowed, using the staff as a prop. “I am yours to command, milord Sesshoumaru.”
“Good. Thank you, Jaken.” The inuyoukai sighed and scratched his neck. “They will be arriving in several hours; shall we retire to the dining room to wait before we go to greet them?”
At that, Rin’s stomach gave a soft growl. “Oh yeah, I didn’t finish my breakfast,” Rin said, placing her hand over her stomach.
Sesshoumaru gently placed his hand on her shoulder. “Come, let us wait in the dining room until it is time to greet them. I will have one of the servants bring you a fresh pork bun to replace the one I interrupted,” he said, leading her out the door. Jaken hurriedly rolled up the scroll he'd been reading and threw it up onto its shelf before running after them; the staff waving above his head.
Rin nodded, choosing not to dwell on the reason of the interruption; sighing when she failed miserably. She hated denying her lord anything, but...
She shook her head. “Just don’t think about it,” she muttered to herself as they reached the dining room.
Sesshoumaru reclined in a nearby sofa, glad to be able to stretch out and relax a little. “Saten, would you please fetch Rin a pork bun from the kitchens?” he asked a nearby servant. The servant nodded and headed out of the room. Jaken sat down at the table; his eyes could barely be seen peering over the tabletop. Disgruntled he got up and placed several cushions on the chair and sat down again; now at the correct height. “We still have some time to wait, milord... another hour or so at the least. Might I invite you to a game?”
“Oh, I'll play you Jaken. Sita's been playing with me and I'm really good at it now,” Rin offered, bouncing in her seat a little.
“The game is Ninuki-Renju Gomoku,” Jaken said, waving the staff. A gridlike game board appeared on the table; accompanyied by two small piles of flat, smooth pebbles; one pile white and the other deepest black. “I will let you play as black if you wish; as black always moves first and you will have the advantage.”
“Yes Master Jaken,” Rin said, moving her seat a little closer to the table and placing one of her stones on the game board as Saten came in with a plate of pork buns. “Rin-chan, Mokochi just finished baking these, so I got a few,” he said, placing down the plate with four large pork buns on it.
Jaken smiled and placed a white pebble in the center of the board. “Your move, Rin.”
Rin took one of the buns, taking a bite and chewing it in thought before taking one of her stones.

---Later---

Jaken's jaw dropped. “But how... how could you....” Every stone on the board was black; Rin had won by a landslide.
Sesshoumaru got up and stretched a little. “I believe it is time we greet our guests, they should be arriving in the entrance hall any minute now. We will discuss your crushing defeat a little later, Jaken,” he said, a faint smile twisting his lips.
Rin giggled, hopping off her seat “Jaken you must have really been going easy on me! That was loads easier than when I play with Sita, and she goes easy on me all the time,” she said, stretching.
Determined to save at least a little dignity, Jaken waved the staff to dismiss the game board. Instead he swung too hard and struck it with the staff; showering himself with black and white stones. Annoyed, he tried again; successful this time. Sesshoumaru smiled, trying to hide his amusement. “Come, let us go meet them,” he said, opening the door and holding it open for his mate and his advisor.
Rin laughed at Jaken as he started grumbling as they walked out the door. “Thank you for letting me win, Master Jaken,” Rin said as they headed down the stairs to the entrance hall.
“You're very welcome,” the imp replied, crossing his fingers under his robe. How on earth did she manage to beat him so pitifully? He'd been playing the game for centuries....
They reached the gigantic double-doors that marked the main entrance to the inuyoukai's castle just as a servant opened a small door in one of them.
“It seems we're just in time,” Sesshoumaru said.