InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Huge Book of Fairy Tales...Sort of ❯ King Thrushbeard...Sort of: Part 5 ( Chapter 15 )

[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]

AN: You guys suck. I was all ready to start the next chapter to Snow White, then I started reading your reviews, loved them so much that I decided I should update this one instead. I just hope this part is as good as the last one apparently was. Oh, and I just put this new part up in my profile about this fic, it’s got summaries, info about future progress and links to the original stories if you want to check it out.

Aelita-Kresta- Thank you, I always love making people laugh. (…as long as they aren’t laughing at me that is.)

Kurimuson Chishio- Thank you. Really? I didn’t know that.

Cebonne- Ah gee, stop with the praise, you’re making me blush. (…I‘m not serious, don‘t stop.) Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I love it when I make people laugh at my stories, (instead of at myself.) And I actually wasn’t sure about making Inu no Taisho that sweet, but I’m glad I did now. And personally, I love Kagura, and I really love writing fics with her and I’m thinking about making a Sess/Kagu fic one of these days but I really love Sess and Rin together. Don’t know why, just do. And I do use a little bit of Kag when I write with Rin, I can’t, can’t, can’t, can’t STAND reading/writing stories where the heroine is a helpless idiot. (And I can’t see alpha dogs like Sess or Inuyasha falling for them.) And I have to admit, I really liked naming the calf after Inuyasha. Now Sess can call Inuyasha a fat cow and would be telling the truth!! (mwhahaha) Thanks again, and I really hope you like the rest of KT.
P.S- THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shinoryu - I know, Sess should be a little afraid. And I’m really sorry about that long wait, but if you blame anyone blame the computer. …and while your at it you can blame my brother for being a…I don’t know, a idiot.

Inuyasha Kagome 2gether- Thanks, and if your interested in reading the fairy tales I’ve based them off of, I’ve got the links on my profile. (Be warned, I used the tales I thought were really, really stupid, or the heroine a weak moron.)

Anime-lover-forever2007- …you know, I haven’t even considered that one. I don’t know why, I hate the Disney version and the original tale. (Well the Disney one wasn’t to bad, but the original was just really depressing, the girl loses her voice, goes though unbearable pain when she walks and dies in the end only to be turned into a bird. A bird! It was the author’s idea of her becoming a Christian or something like that.) You know it might be kinda cool if I switched things around so the guy is the mermaid and the girl is the princess he saves. Hmm, I’ll have to think about this.

media miner-

Orlando Lover- …you know I might have read that. That’s a rewritten version of the story to though, I have a link to the fairy tale if you’re interested on my profile page on ff.net. You know, now that I think of it, I don’t remember what I didn’t like about that story…oh right in the original, the prince and the girl didn’t know each other at all when they met, he saw all those lovely jewels falling from her mouth and ’fell in love’. (snort) I really, really hate the idea of falling in love at first sight. There’s no such thing, there’s something called ‘lust at first sight’ but not love. That’s my personal belief anyway. Thanks for reviewing.

adea neri- THANKKKKKKKKKK YOUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! (and I hope me updating so soon, makes yours.)

LostintheRain84- Thanks, I was rather proud of the ugly-old-fat-Kikyo idea myself. (Though it feels like all my other creative/original ideas fall a little short after that one.) And I’m really happy I made someone laugh at my fics. (I don’t understand how I’m doing that though, I’m such a boring goody-two-shoes in real life. Oh well.) Thanks again for reviewing. (And I hope you know you’re part of the reason I’m not updating Snow White yet. Don’t write such wonderful reviews that I want to slack off on my other fics! …I‘m kidding by the way.)

What Happened Last Time-
Sesshomaru and Rin left, Inuyasha tagging his father happily.
“I’m not even going to yell, because I know it will go right over your hard head.” Rin said, sounding calm. “but don’t think you’re getting out of working. I’ll find something else for you to do.”
Sesshomaru had a bad feeling this was the woman he should fear.

…Somewhere

“THAT FUCKING BASTRAD NAMED A COW AFTER ME?” Inuyasha roared in rage.
“…it’s actually a bull, Inuyasha.” Miroku pointed out meekly.


And now…King Thrushbeard…Sort of: Part 5 (wow! And to think this was only going to last 2 parts…)

Disclaimer- I don’t own Inuyasha, and if I was making any money from this fic, I would be wheeling around a brand new shopping cart, filled to the brim with trash.
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Day 2-

“We’re just so glad you’re here Sesshomaru!” Perky Idiot number one squealed.
“Oh yes, we’ve never had anyone work for us who lived in the palace! The fashions must be fabulous there!” Perky Idiot number two prattled on.
“And your little cow is just so cute!” Perky Idiot number three gushed.
Sesshomaru stayed silent as he walked slightly behind them around the corners of their shop, thanking Kami his family couldn’t see him now.
“Anyway, what you’re going to do here is help women who come in pick the style, color, and design of their kimono’s. Since you have such great clothing, I’m assuming you have fabulous taste, correct?” Perky idiot number two asked, enviously looking at his clothing.
Sesshomaru nodded once, causing Perky Idiot’s one, two and three to squeal like school girls.
“Oh you’re going to be just perfect for this job! And the women will love that adorable little calf!” Perky idiot number three cooed to Inuyasha.
Perky Idiot number one pointed to a counter. “You’ll work there and help any woman who comes up. The fabric books are under it and the different styles are in the room we just went though. Inuyasha is welcome to wander around.”
Sesshomaru nodded again, and waited patiently behind the counter, keeping an eye on Inuyasha.
Finally a woman walked through the door and the Perky Idiots were suddenly very busy and the only one who could help her was Sesshomaru.
She hesitantly walked over, a bit scared by his cold look but reassured by the calf who stood next to him.
“Hello.” she said slowly, and he nodded in return, bending down to retrieve the fabric book.
She flipped though the pages, before finally settling on a bold blue with green leaves.
Sesshomaru raised a eyebrow. “You realize you would look like a giant blueberry, do you not?”
As the woman flushed red, Sesshomaru flipped though the book before he found the one he wanted.
“This one would work better. The red would compliment your fair complexion, and the purple flowers a bit of grace. A green obi would bring the piece together.”
The woman bit her lip, “Are you sure?”
He slowly blinked. “You would question this Sesshomaru?”
At her face quickly paling, he shut the book and pushed away from the counter, “Come, the kimono’s are in the next room.” he commanded and she followed quickly.

Later into the work day~

“You stupid woman, what are you thinking picking a fabric like that?” Sesshomaru demanded after a woman pointed out the ugly purple and orange fabric she wanted.
He sighed when she looked up sharply, “The orange vines twisting around your stomach would make you look fat, while the purple makes you look washed out. If you had picked out this cream and light blue piece you might have given me less reason to doubt humans’ intelligence.”
Her boyfriend snarled at him while she looked the fabric over. “I do like the little white flowers over it.” she mumbled.
Sesshomaru nodded. “As you should.” His eyes traveling over her form, frowning slightly. “A sleeve that went down to your knees would be best for this fabric. And perhaps a dark blue obi to draw attention.” he mused.
Her boyfriend tensed at the sight of Sess looking his girl over and slammed his hands down on the counter, leaning over to look him in the eyes. “Are you eyeing my woman?”
Sesshomaru looked at the angry man, fighting the urge to sigh, “No.”
The man looked at him suspiciously, “What are you saying? You callin’ my woman ugly?” he demanded.
Sess fought for patience, “No.”
“So then you were lookin’ at my woman!” the man roared and vaulted over the counter.
The woman screamed but Sess simply grabbed the man by the hair and flung him straight into the wall.
“The kimono’s are in the next room.” Sesshomaru said calmly, leading the way.

Later~ (After several more fights and insults)

“Hey man, you got a fine looking calf there.” A man commented as he waited for his wife.
Sesshomaru ignored him.
“I was wondering, how much do you want for it? My son’s coming home soon and that calf would be a delicious meal to welcome him home with.”
Sesshomaru’s response was to fling the man from the store by his throat.

Later~

“..he’s fired?” Rin asked in shock. “but how? You just told me how he made more money then you’ve ever gotten in a day.”
Yuka sniffed sadly. “I know, but he insults so many women before helping them and the men get so jealous. …and there are the damages from all his fights to consider. He wouldn’t work out in the long run.”
“And he had such fabulous style.” Eri added, brushing away a tear.
“Can I come visit Inuyasha?” Ayumi asked.
Rin sighed and looked over at Sesshomaru. Her eyes slowly narrowed and her teeth gritted when she saw a woman standing closer then needed to him.
“Maybe it’s just as well he got fired.” she muttered darkly.

…Somewhere~

“Sess has to work in a clothing store? HA! THAT’S FOR NAMING ME AFTER A COW YOU SICK BASTRAD!” Inuyasha roared in delight.
Miroku and Inu no Tashio sighed as Inuyasha continued to rant, “Can you believe that guy? Look at the way he’s bossing that poor cow around! How can you get any lower? Why I oughta-”
Miroku hit Inuyasha over the head with his staff, much to Inu no Taisho’s relief.

Day 3-

“Alright Sesshomaru, this is Totosai, the village’s elder. During the day, many people come asking for his advice, but he’s getting a little hard of hearing.”
“What was that missy?” Totosai demanded.
“I said you know a bard of healing.” Rin replied, her voice raised.
Not having any idea what she talking about, he nodded solemnly and went back to staring blankly.
“But since not everyone wants their problems shouted like that, you’re going to write their questions down for Totosai. I have to get going, I’m playing for a villagers wedding today. Have a good day Inuyasha.” she cooed and the calf mooed happily, before grinning quickly at Sesshomaru and walking away.
He glared at the old man before settling down beside him, paper and pens on the opposite side of Inuyasha after he tried eating them.
The day passed slowly, with villager after villager stepping into the hut to ask Totosai if they should plant early this year, or marry their daughter off to this farmer, or where their missing ball went. It was driving Sesshomaru insane.
Finally the long line dwindled down until there was only one young man left. He had black hair tied up into a ponytail, plain brown eyes, and a strange white monkey traveled on his shoulder.
He bowed low in front of Totosai, “My lord. I humbly come to you asking your advice on a…troubling problem. You see, I…my lord?” the man asked when Totosai’s head rolled to the side and he started snoring.
He bowed his head. “I see. I will return later.” he turned to go.
“Stop.” Sesshomaru commanded. “I will listen.” Why not? He was bored as hell.
The man looked at him suspiciously, “You can do that?”
Sesshomaru nodded once.
The young man settled down in front of him with a sigh. “You see, I’m in love with a beautiful, wonderful, sweet woman named Tsuyu. And I’m positive she’s falling in love with me. But then he came into town.” the man hissed furiously. “That..that…bastard who’s trying to take Tsuyu from me! Tell me, what should I do?”
Sesshomaru mentally rolled his eyes as he started to prepare Inuyasha’s milk when the calf began begging. “Kill him.”
The young man froze. “What?”
“Kill him. If she is your woman then you can’t stand for any threats to her.” he said, amazed the stupid human hadn’t realized that before.
The man though about it, before nodding. “Yes, if that is what I must do to make sure Tsuyu is mine, it will be done!” he cried out before running though the door.
Sesshomaru mentally patted his shoulder as Inuyasha started sucking on his bottle. See? This job wasn’t too hard.

Later~

Rin blinked as she saw a excited crowd outside Totosai’s hut.
She stopped at the end and looked at a villager who was straining to see, “What’s going on?” she asked.
The man looked briefly over at her. “Nobunaga has challenged Muso to a duel over Tsuyu!”
Rin gasped. Nobunaga couldn’t fight his way out of a wet paper bag, how could he fight against someone like Muso?
She fought her way into the crowd, pushing and elbowing people aside until she finally got to the front where she saw a smirking Muso and a shaking Nobunaga.
She broke free of the crowd to run towards Nobunga’s side, “Nobunga! What the hell do you think you’re doing?” She demanded.
“Keeping what’s mine.” he said shakily.
Rin snorted, “Don’t be a fool! If you go through with this, we’ll be picking you up in little pieces off the ground.”
“But he wants Tsuyu!” he protested.
“And if she leaves you, then she never was yours to begin with.” Rin countered. “Just get out of this while you still can. You know you can’t win against Muso. And if Tsuyu really does love you, you‘ll be leaving her alone your whole life.” she said softly and stepped back when Tsuyu broke through of the crowd.
“Nobunaga! Don’t fight, please don’t fight!” She begged and threw herself at him. “I couldn’t bare it if you were hurt or killed. I promise I’ll never leave you for anyone! Not even if the Lord of the Western lands came and asked for my hand!” she promised.
Nobunaga softened and smiled down at her. “Alright Tsuyu. For you, I won’t fight.” he said and threw his sword down as Tsuyu wrapped herself even tighter around him and started crying.
“That’s it? You pick this little worm over me? I would have treated you like a queen- no like a goddess and you chose him?” Muso screamed in outrage.
He turned his burning eyes to Rin. “You! It’s your fault you little bitch, if you hadn’t stepped in the middle of things. Tsuyu would be mine!” he roared and started running towards her, holding his sword straight at Rin’s heart.
He cried out when his sword clanged against another, and Rin gasped when she realized Sesshomaru had put himself in front of her.
Muso cried out in rage and drew his sword out to attack again. Sesshomaru coolly blocked it with his own, and before he knew it, Muso was on the ground under Sesshomaru’s feet with his sword laying softly at the base of his throat.
“You dare attack a person under this Sesshomaru’s protection?” he asked coldly.
Muso shook his head rapidly. “Of course not, I wasn’t going to touch her.”
Sesshomaru’s eyes narrowed. “Liar.” he hissed, pressing his sword harder into his neck.
“Sesshomaru.” Rin said softly, laying a hand on his arm. “Just let him go. I’m alright.” she waited as he kicked Muso in the ribs before sliding his sword back in its sheathe. He grabbed Rin’s arm and led her away, barking a sharp, “Come!” to get Inuyasha trotting along behind them.

Day 4-

“I can’t believe Totosai would tell Nobunaga to try and kill Muso! He’s never had such bad judgment before. Never mind, he’s probably getting to old for the job.”
Sesshomaru stayed silent as he, Rin, and Inuyasha walked the path to the village, deciding it was best not to tell her who had given the stupid human that advice.
“Are you sure you want to follow me around today Sess? You and Inuyasha can stay at the cottage if you want to. I‘ll be fine.” Rin said, trying to sound tough.
Sesshomaru looked over at her, deciding she must still be shaky after last night‘s incident, “This Sesshomaru knows what he wants,” he said regally.
Rin snorted, “This Rin thinks you Sesshomaru should stop talking in third person before you drive her insane.”
He hid a small grin by turning his head. Strange, a few days ago he would have though she was irritating. But now…it was different.
They reached the village has the people were doing their morning duties or hurrying off to work. Rin stopped in front of a small fountain, and placed a pot in front of her as Sesshomaru subtly checked the area out, making sure Muso wasn’t here. He made sure he had given the man at least two broken ribs but you could never be to careful when it came to maniacs like him.
He sat cross legged against the fountain, Inuyasha sitting close to him while Rin started to play.
When he wasn’t scanning the area, he was staring straight at her. He was still amazed she could look so beautiful when she was doing something as simple as playing a fiddle.
By now several people had stopped to listen to her, or to put a few coins in her pot before continuing on their way.
“Hey mister!” A child said, coming up to him with several more kids at his back. “is your mom making you stand here too?”
“No.” he said shortly.
“Oh.” the boy scrunched up in face in though before brightening. “Hey, do you know any good stories?”“Yeah! Do you know any with fighting?” another boy asked when Sesshomaru was about to refuse.
He paused. “Yes.”
The children gasped in excitement, “Tell us, please?” one of the little girls begged.
Sesshomaru thought for a minute of a good one. “Alright. There once was a evil demon named Ryukotsusei who threatened the Western Lands. The ruler there, Lord Inu no Taisho was quick to defend his country-”

30 minutes later of detailed blood, guts and gore~

“-and the mighty Inu no Taisho sliced the creature’s tail off, spreading blood all over the mountain side. Ryukotsuei’s arm was hanging on by mere inches when the dog lord reached up and bit it off with his teeth.” Sesshomaru explained, getting into the story.
“And then with a roar, the lord speared the evil creature with his sword, stringing all his internal organs together and-”
“What are you telling our children!” a cornered mother yelled, covering her son’s ears and yanking him away.
The other parents glared at him as they led their protesting children away and the young men begged him to continue.
“Sesshomaru! What were you telling those children?” Rin demanded.
He hid his confusion behind his usual ice mask. “They asked me to tell them a story.”
“Not a story where the only thing that was going on was fighting!” Rin yelled.
“That is a very good story about how my father beat a enemy to the Western Lands. You humans would do well to study from his example.” Sesshomaru declared.
Rin pulled her hair and screamed under her breath in frustration. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply. “Come on, let’s just go. I’m not getting any more business today.” she glared at him before whirling around and stalking away.
Sesshomaru shared a look with Inuyasha who was just as confused as he was.

Day 5-

“Sesshomaru, this is our village’s matchmaker Kaede. Lately her arthritis has made it difficult for her to write, so you’ll be doing her paperwork for her. I’ll see you later.” Rin said before rushing out of the house.
Kaede looked at him, “I have two clients coming in soon, a flea couple who aren’t sure they should be together. But I have to help a woman go though labor today, so ye may have to deal with them on your own. Just keep them talking until I get back.” Kaede ordered before leaving.
Sesshomaru sat down, Inuyasha curled up under his chair and was about to look though her papers before two tiny voices reached his ears.
“-I said I don’t wanna go!” a man cried.
“Too bad! I said you’re going, and that’s final!” a woman ordered and the man’s crying increased.
Two little figures jumped up on the desk, one was a female flea demon literally dragging a male flea demon.
“Shoga!” the male demon begged. “Don’t make me do this.”
“You promised Myoga! You promised you would marry me and you haven’t done it yet!” the female screeched.
“You can’t hold me accountable for that! You were controlling those warriors to kill me if I didn’t agree!” Myoga protested.
Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes at the male. “Myoga?”
Myoga cried in relief and bowed low at Sesshomaru. “My lord! Oh thank Kami you’re here! Please, please Lord Sesshomaru, tell Shoga I’m not meant to become her husband.”
Sesshomaru raised a eyebrow, enjoying his suffering. “Tell me Myoga, do you remember a incident where I asked you to do something for me but you ran away instead?”
Myoga touched his forehead to the table, “Please have pity on me! I was too scared to bring you that sword in the middle of a battle!”
Sesshomaru nodded. “I see.” he turned to Shoga “You have my blessings.”
Shoga screamed in joy before hugging Myoga to her and running off, while Myoga yelled, “Why my lord, why?”
Sesshomaru allowed himself a quick smile before pouring himself tea.

Later~

“You know, Kaede told me something when I came to meet you today.” Rin said causally as she set the food on the table.
Sesshomaru looked up from Inuyasha and glanced at her, “Yes?”
“Yes, according to her you told two fleas they should get married and the groom ran away from the altar!”
Sesshomaru shrugged, “What a shame.”
“So Kaede has fired you as well.” Rin said tightly. She grinned suddenly. “But don’t worry Sesshomaru, I have a job for you that doesn’t need a boss.”
Inuyasha whimpered and hid his face behind Sesshomaru’s leg when she started to cackle evilly.

Day 6-

Sesshomaru sat on the spread out blanket, scanning the area before settling his gaze on the pottery in front of him. He still didn’t know how he missed the scent of clay on Rin’s hands if she really made all these during breaks from playing her fiddle like she said.
Inuyasha pressed closer to him, unsettled by all the strange people starting to fill the marketplace. Sesshomaru had already sold five pots, all the woman flocking to him. Some had even paid him without taking any of his wares.
Sesshomaru searched out Rin again, who was in the entrance of the market, playing her fiddle. She had already drawn a crowd and he searched their faces to make sure Muso wasn’t among them.
“Hey there handsome.” a sultry voice said.
Sesshomaru looked up to see a woman staring at him, licking her lips and her purple eyes eagerly looking him over.
“I here you’re looking for work. I have a job if your interested.” she purred suggestfully.
“He isn’t.” Rin said flatly as she came up behind her.
The woman turned around to glare at her. “Oh? Does he allow you to speak for him?” she ask scathingly.
“When she says what I’m thinking.” Sesshomaru replied.
The woman send her glare on him before turning her nose up and walking away.
Rin resisted the urge to stick her foot out so the woman tripped then she walked by.
“So, how’s business doing?” Rin asked brightly, her smile a little to wide.
Sesshomaru nodded once. “It’s doing well.”
He glanced over to see that woman whispering in a mans ear and narrowed his eyes a bit.
“Rin? Why don’t you go back? I can handle things here.” he suggested, wanting her out of the way for whatever was about to happen.
She looked at him, but slowly nodded and made her way back to the entrance.
Sesshomaru’s attention was immediately drawn to the fight that was breaking out near his stand. He recognized one of the fighters from as the man that woman whispered to and he stood up, his hand on his sword as the fight continued down to him. When the two fighters were right in front of them they stopped fighting each other and sprang towards him, each holding a knife in their hands.
He quickly slashed his energy whip across the attackers hands, making them drop the knifes and stepped back so they landed hard on the ground, shattering all the pottery he had left.
He looked down at them coldly, “I’ll give you until I draw my sword to escape.” he said and drew his sword out of its sheath and in a lighting fast movement.
The two men looked at each other before yelping and running away as fast as their legs could carry them.
“Why am I not surprised you managed to get into another fight? If I didn’t know better, I’d say you enjoy them.” Rin remarked as she stepped over the broken shards and looked at him. “Do you?”
He chose to ignore her as he slid his sword back in its proper place.
“Hey, I saw what happened. That Ruri is a real bitch isn’t she?” a cheerful voice asked.
They looked behind them to see a pretty red headed wolf demon looking around. She looked startled to see them staring at her, but relaxed into a grin.
“Oh I’m sorry, my name is Ayame! I’m sorry about what happened, Ruri gets a little pissed when she doesn’t get what she wants.” Ayame explained. “But anyway, I’ve heard that you’re looking for a job! And I so happen to need a person for my line of work.”
“What are you?” Rin asked.
“An artist! Well a struggling artist anyway. There’s a art contest tomorrow, and I know if you let me paint him I’ll win and be discovered! Please sir, won’t you model for me?” Ayame asked Sesshomaru, her lip poking out slightly.
Rin looked over at him, “She seems nice. And there’s not a lot of trouble you can get into sitting still, right?”

Day 7-

“Alright, that looks great Lord Sesshomaru!” Ayame said eagerly. “Just lay back a little more and, oh what the hell, let’s have Inuyasha get in there!”
Inuyasha perked up at the sound of his name and happily walked over to Sesshomaru.
“Just let him lay down beside you and put his head in your lap…oh please? Great! That looks wonderful! Ok now comes the hard part, I need you to sit as still as possible, ok? Ok!” Ayame said and sat down behind her easel and paper.
Sesshomaru wondered how he let himself get talked into these things. He was laying against a tree on a hill, the mountains a back drop while pretty fresh flowers totally surrounded him, while Inuyasha was resting his head in his lap.
It made him sick.

Later~

“Alright! It’s all done! Oh, it looks so beautiful!” Ayame exclaimed. She smiled over at him as he got up and stretched. “I don’t suppose you can wait until the unveiling tonight to see it can you? There’s just a few things I’d like to touch up on before I show it to the world. And I want to see if I can get copies printed before tonight so I can sell them.”
Sesshomaru gave his customary nod before turning and walking away with Inuyasha, leaving Ayame to her giggles and sighs.

Even later~

“Oh I can’t wait to see the painting! I hope Ayame managed to get copies printed, I really want to buy one.” Rin said excitedly as they made their way to the center of the village where the art contest was being held, somehow managing to keep Inuyasha at home without him trying to break down the doors to get to his ’father’.
Sesshomaru gently took her arm when she would have tripped over a stone and let it stay there.
Rin took a deep breath and titled her head back to look at the stars, smiling. She had her doubts at first but maybe this was going to work. She couldn’t believe what had happened in the course of a week, already he was smiling a little at rare moments, and he touched her willingly at least once a day now. Oh, he would be mad once he found out she lied to him, but she was sure she could make him listen to her and realize she really did love him.
…or at least she was pretty sure she could.
“There’s Ayame, she seems pretty happy. Do you think that means she won?” Rin asked, tugging on his arm a bit. “Ayame!” she called out.
Ayame looked up and grinned as she rushed up to them, “Hey guys! You’ll never believe what happened! I won the contest!”
Rin shrieked and reach out to hug her. “That’s wonderful Ayame! Now where’s Sess’s painting I really want to see it.”
Ayame shifted her eyes away from them, “Um, you might not want to see it.”
Rin frowned. “Why not? It can’t look bad if you won.”
“Yeah, about that, you see…this was a art contest with a theme. And, well, um, oh Kami.” she took a deep breath. “…there had to be a woman in the painting.”
They froze. “You didn’t.” Sesshomaru said threateningly.
“It’s that not that bad, no one knows it was based on you.” Ayame said desperately, trying to think of something to say that would keep her from being killed.
Sesshomaru snarled at her before walking over to where everyone was gathered around.
“It’s beautiful isn’t it?”
“Yes, the cow is a nice touch.”
“Where did she find such a lovely woman?” Sesshomaru heard the people say as he stared at the painting in horror.
There on the painted surface, was Sesshomaru wearing a kimono, breasts, and a innocent looking calf on his lap.

…Somewhere~

Inuyasha slowly stepped out of the room where his father and Miroku were in, staring speechlessly at the screen.
He crocked his finger at a servant standing in the hall and waited until he came over. “Listen to me carefully, there’s a certain painting I want you to get for me at all costs…”

Later~ (After Rin convinces Sesshomaru not to kill Ayame)

“It really wasn’t that bad Sess, you made a very beautiful woman.” Rin said soothingly as Sesshomaru stalked back to the house.
“Not helping.” he said tightly.
“No one knows it was you.” she offered as she struggled to keep up with his long strides.
“I know it was me. I’ll have to kill someone or at least beat them up so I don’t feel so violated.” he muttered under his breath.
“Oh well, there’s several criminals the police want, maybe you can go and collect them?” Rin asked.
Sesshomaru stopped and thought about it. “That could work.”
Day 8-

Sesshomaru entered the police station, barely able to cover his murderous glee at the thought of beating someone up.
He made his way to the desk where a lone officer was sitting. “I’ve heard you have need of a bounty hunter. Is that true?” he asked softly.
The officer looked up, startled. “Yes, it’s true. Are you one?”
“I can be.”
The officer shrugged and handed him a file, glad to get it off his desk. “He’s a demon named Juromaru. He’s been eating the intestines of his victims, but we haven’t been able to catch him. We need you to bring him in alive.”
Sesshomaru nodded once before walking out without another word.

Later~

The officer looked up as he saw Sesshomaru enter, dragging a unconscious demon behind him, and some kind of scorpion thing over his shoulder.
He threw them both on the ground and the officers eyes widened when he saw how badly beat up they were.
“Do you have anyone else?” Sesshomaru asked after the officer handed him his money.

Elsewhere~

“Hey you guys hear about that new bounty hunter? He kicked Juromaru’s ass without breaking a sweat! I have a informant that says he’s taken on every single case he can!” the man told his friend.
His eye’s widened, “Oh shit…you don’t think he’s coming for us do you think?”
His friend grimly nodded. “I heard he took every single head, he’s going to find us sooner or later. He’s a demon, there’s no way we can go against him.”
His friend sighed, “Do we have to do it?”

Even later~

Sesshomaru walked in, trailing another 80-broken-boned criminal behind him, eyes narrowing as he saw all the criminals he had left to catch standing in the lobby waiting to be put in a cell.
He dropped the body he was dragging, and glared at the officer sitting at the desk.
“What is the meaning of this?” he demanded.
The cop swallowed nervously. “Well, you see sir, all the wanted criminals have turned themselves in…we really don’t need you anymore. But thanks for finding the ones you did.” he offered as he handed him the money for the murderer he just brought in.
Sesshomaru snarled at the group of criminals standing around, feeling a little better when they fell on their knees and whimpered for mercy.

Day 9-

“Rin, you’ve made me do many jobs while I’ve been with you. But this is the most outrageous one yet. You couldn‘t pay me enough to do it.” Sesshomaru said calmly.
Rin sent him her best puppy-dog eyes, “Oh please Sess? It’s just one day. And it won’t be that bad, they really are well behaved.”
He glared at the two standing innocently in front of them, “Even those two?”
“Of course, you know they’re sorry for what they did.”
“They were after I threw them into the pond.” he mumbled.
“And they love Inuyasha, don’t you want him to be happy?” Rin asked.
He mentally sighed, “Very well. I will…” he grimaced, “baby-sit.”
Rin grinned and threw her arms around him. “Thank you!” she let him go and started walking away, “I’ll see you later!”
He nodded and narrowed his eyes he saw Hojo running to catch up to her. “Rin!” he called out.
Rin stopped and smiled at him. “Hojo!”
Sesshomaru stopped glaring when he felt a gentle tug at his sleeve and looked down. “Mr. Sesshomaru? You look really scary right now.” the little girl said softly.
He opened his mouth to say something but froze when something crossed his mind, thinking deeply as he stared at the children we was watching over.
“Children” he purred. “How would you like to play a game?”

Later~

“No Satoru, you never stick your elbows out like that when you hold a sword. It’s more like this.” Sesshomaru corrected quickly and the little boy nodded fiercely before going back to his strokes.
“And Hitomi, you need to thrust it with more force. Like this.” Sesshomaru showed her before turning to see the two sister’s progress.
“How are the weapons coming along?” he asked the eldest.
Serina wiped the sweat off her forehead as she looked up from the dirt bomb she was making. “We’re almost done making the dirt bombs sir, and Suzuna is practically done with the goggles. We’ll start the other weapons next.”
Sesshomaru nodded, “Very good, Koume, how’s the plan coming?”
The little girl chewed her lips as she studied the map in front of her, “I think if we manage to get the target to this point, Taromaru and Suekichi can led him into the trap.”
“Good work, how is that covering going boys?” Sess questioned the two friends who were covering leaves and sticks over the ditch they found. The nodded in confirmation and went back to their work.
“Sir!” A voice above him called out and Sesshomaru looked up to see Soten and her pet Koryu hovering above his head. “we’ve located the target! He should be here very soon. I believe we should send the bait out now so they can meet them half way.”
Sesshomaru nodded, “Excellent work. Hitomi and Satoru! It’s time to do your job now.”
They stopped practicing their strokes and nodded. “Right!”
“Remember to look as innocent as possible. The success of our mission if depending on you right now.” Sesshomaru said solemnly.
They nodded again. “We understand.” Hitomi replied and they ran off, looking for the target.
“And don’t forget to tuck your chin in closer to your body when you roll out Satoru!” Sesshomaru called out before turning to face his troops. “Everyone! It’s time, get in positions!” he ordered.
The children grabbed what they need and hid behind bushes, in trees, or behind their trunks as they waited for their prey.
They heard their target coming down the road, totally vulnerable and clueless to what was about to happen to him. The two children with him giggled and pulled him along, shouting they wanted to show him something.
“Now, now, don’t push, I’m coming.” the man said laughingly, touched these two children thought so highly of him they would be this eager to share this with him.
Sesshomaru’s army tensed as their victim cam closer. Finally the fool stopped right where they wanted him.
“Fire!” Sesshomaru cried out and the children attacked.
“What the…?” their target yelled helplessly as Hitomi and Satoru rolled away (with Satoru tucking his chin correctly against his chest, Sesshomaru noted proudly.) The troops threw dirt bombs, raising so much dust and dirt the target couldn’t see.
“Someone help!” the victim called out in the middle of the dust.
“Second attack!” Sesshomaru yelled and the children threw bags full of crushed berry juice and poison ivy. And according to the targets cries most of the bags hit.
“Third attack!” Sesshomaru yelled and watched as Taromaru and Suekicki jumped into the cloud, wearing the special goggles Saton enchanted so they could see.
“What! No! Stop pushing me! Ahh!” The prey screamed as the sound of cracking was heard and he fell straight down into the ditch.
The army waited breathlessly until the dust cleared, and one of the soldiers went forward to check the pit. She carefully looked down and send a thumbs up.
The army started cheering and Sesshomaru couldn’t help but smile proudly as they rushed to go view their handwork.
“Very good troops! I’m very proud of all of you.” Sesshomaru declared and the children’s faces lit up in joy.
“Thanks Mr. Sesshomaru! You sure come up with some fun games!” Koume said happily.
“Can we do this again tomorrow?” Taromaru asked eagerly.
“Yeah! I’ve got a really good plan to carry out!” Saton added.
Sesshomaru shook his head sadly. “No, not tomorrow. But maybe later.”
“Not if I have anything to say about it!” a stranger said as he stepped out of the woods. “I must say…did you say your name was Sesshomaru?” He asked.
Sesshomaru nodded, studying the young man, he had brown hair tired back in a pony tail and brown eyes. He bowed, “Forgive me for not introducing myself, My name is Takeda Kuransuke, I run the local dojo. I’m very impressed with what you did with these kids. I’ve never seen them this focused or united. Normally it’s hard enough just to keep them from fighting. I’d like you to lead a children’s program, if you’re interested, where you do things like you just did today. I’m convinced it would be very good for the children.” Takeda walked over to where their target was lying in the ditch and helped him out, paint covered and all. “And I’m very sure Mr. Hojo would love to help you.”
“Of course. Anything for the children.” he said dazedly. Suddenly he giggled. “Look! There’s two Sesshomaru’s!” he giggled again before sighing and passing out.
So what do you say Mr. Sesshomaru? Will you do it?”
“Yeah! Please Mr. Sesshomaru? I would do it if you were the teacher!” Taromaru promised.
“Say you will sir!” Serina begged.
“Please?” all the children said in unison
Sesshomaru looked down at Inuyasha who had finally come out of the woods now that the danger was over. Even he seemed to be pleading him to take the job.
Finally Sesshomaru sighed. “Yes, I will take the job.”
The children started to cheer and jump around him, saying how glad they were.
Sesshomaru glanced up at the sky. “You all better get home. It’s getting late.” Come, I’ll take you.” he commanded.
He nodded to Takeda. “Tomorrow then?”
Takeda nodded, smiling. “I’ll see you bright and early.”
Sesshomaru nodded once more before leading the children back to the village.

Later~

Sesshomaru and Inuyasha waited while Rin finished her last song, feeling some strange emotion he rarely felt before.
If he was correct he could call it happiness.
“I’ve found a job.” he told her as she finished and started walking back to her cottage.
Rin brightened, “Really? Where?”
“The dojo had hired me. They requested me to work in a children’s program.”
Rin grinned, “Oh Sess that’s wonderful! See, I knew you would find something! And I can’t believe you’re that good with kids they would ask you do to that!”
Sesshomaru shrugged. “They are easily controllable.”
Rin rolled her eyes and playfully hit him. “Don’t give me that! I know you have a soft spot!”
Sesshomaru looked down at her with his ice mask but there wasn’t the menace she usually felt from it. “There are no such soft spots on this Sesshomaru’s body.”
“Ha! Yeah right, just watch, I bet you’re ticklish!” Rin challenged and tackled him, running her hands all over him trying to find a sensitive spot.
Sesshomaru looked at her as he laid on his back, wondering if she lost her mind. But he slowly grinned and quickly reversed their positions.
“This Sesshomaru thinks you Rin might have some soft spots.” he purred, scratching his claws delicately up her sides, smirking when she started laughing.
“I see this Sesshomaru was right.” He muttered, mercilessly tickling her.
“Sess! Come on, mercy!” Rin begged between laughter.
“Don’t you know anything about dog demons? We’re unstoppable when we find a weakness.” he informed her.
“Come on! Stop! This isn’t funny!” she pleaded.
“Then why are you laughing so hard?” Sesshomaru asked, not letting up.
“It’s going to get dark soon!” She argued and he sighed but stopped. He stood up and offered a hand to her.
She accepted and was shocked when he didn’t let go off it as he started pulling her to the cottage.
And he wondered if it was time to explore all her other soft spots.

…Somewhere~

Inuyasha shuddered as he watched the screen, “Kami, now Sesshomaru is training troops from childhood? This guy needs to get laid.” he commented.
Inu no Taisho hit him across the head, “Shut up! Look at him, he looks…happy.”
They watched in shocked silence as Sesshomaru commanded his army, smiling at times or looking down proudly at his soldiers.
“..I never realized Sesshomaru had such a soft spot for children.” Miroku remarked softly.
Inuyasha snorted. “Are you sure he just hasn’t listened to, too many war stories?”
The men started laughing when they realized who the target was.
“Kami, is Sess a cruel bastard! That poor guy, getting attacked like that out of nowhere!” Inuyasha chuckled.
Inu no Taisho smiled smugly. “He gets that from me.” he bragged.
They watched as Sesshomaru’s army attacked Hojo and send him down that pit, and were surprised as everyone else was when that man stepped out of the woods.
“…he’s offering him a job?” Inuyasha pouted. “Does that mean he don’t get to see Sess screw up everyday now?”
“Probably not, but we do get to watch Holo get his butt kicked by little kids!” Miroku pointed out, grinning.
Inuyasha grinned back, “Fair trade then.”
“Take the job Sess!” Inu no Taisho pleaded.
“Yeah, don’t disappoint those kids!” Miroku added.
“Take the job! Take the job! Take the job!” the three started chanting.
“YEAH!” they cheered when he accepted.
“This is almost worth being named after a cow if I get to watch Holo get beat up everyday!” Inuyasha said.
“Looks like you have a better chance of not dying Miroku! …at least not painfully.” Inu no Taisho added after a thought.
Miroku sighed. “I’ll take what I can get.”
Inuyasha groaned. “Oh, we missed a while part with Rin and…oh crap is she tickling him?” Inuyasha asked unbelieving.
“…she is.” Miroku said after a moment of watching.
“And look, he’s smiling! HE’S FUCKING SMILING!” Inu no Taisho roared happily. “I knew she would be good for him! I knew it!”
Inuyasha frowned slightly as he saw his counter part standing off slightly to the side after Sess flipped Rin over.
“Ahh, I wish they wouldn’t do that in front of him, he’s only a week old. He’s not nearly mature enough to watch his dad get a girlfriend.” Inuyasha pointed out.
“…I can think of a dozen things to say about that, but I’m in such a good mood I’m going to keep quiet.” Miroku muttered.
“Well I’m going to go, I need to see Izyoi to celebrate this. See you guys in the morning.” Inu no Taisho said cheerfully as he left the room in search of his wife.
Miroku grinned, “I think I’m going to find Sango because…well just because.” he smirked and shut the screen off, leaving Inuyasha in the room with dozen’s of Ramen bowls scattered around him.
Inuyasha growled in frustration, “Doesn’t anyone else care about the well being of that cow?” he asked the empty room.

------------------------------------------------------------ ---------------------------------------------

AN: And there you go! Next chapter expect more fluff, schemes plotting Hojo’s downfall and maybe even a lemon if I feel I can write a good one. Oh, and if anyone has a good plan to bring Hojo down, I’d be more then happy to hear it/them. But don’t expect it right away, I have to be strong and update Snow White next no matter how wonderful your reviews are, so please don’t tempt me. (…I’m kidding. Tempt me, I have to work on my self control) One more thing, sorry but this Takeda is not the same one who’s in love Sango. Sorry if I disappointed anyone with idea’s of future love triangles or whatever.