After the Mask (Secret of the cursed mask game sequel)

Part 10

I walk beside Rin as she rides Ah-Un, tired from the long walk. I can't help but yawn myself as I watch her eyes open with shock at every bump before drooping again. I brush my hair out of my face for what must be the tenth time that minute. It's really windy and it looks like it could rain any second.

I glance down at the fan looking tanto that is tucked safely into my obi. I still can't believe Sesshomaru got me something like this. On our way down from the mountains, walking a descent trail this time, he told me I needed something to protect myself with in case my powers weren't enough.

Fair enough, but did it have to be so luxurious looking? I feel guilty for Sesshomaru spending his money on me every time I look at it. Now that I think about it, he bought these clothes too, feeds me, trains me and gives me shelter. Man, I feel even worse now. I'm a freeloader, aren't I?

Sure, I teach and protect Rin, but compared with what I get in return... And I'd do anything for Rin, just for fun. Maybe he feels like he still owes me from when he got sick... No that's not it; he took care of me too. I sigh, unable to find an answer for getting indulged by Sesshomaru while I hardly do anything in return.

Sesshomaru then stops making us all halt. "Jaken, take Rin and Ah-Un back home. It's not far anymore." he orders.

"Yes m'lord. Have you decided to take that wild demon Keita up on his invitation?" Jaken questions. Sesshomaru nods in confirmation. Jaken takes the dragon's reigns and walks off. I smile softly back at Rin as she's deep in sleep, none the wiser of our parting.

Sesshomaru glances at me before leading the way. I feel a bit awkward with just the two of us. He's always so silent, while I do like to converse every now and again. But starting conversations with Sesshomaru and keeping him interested is a hard thing to do. I decide to ask him about Keita. "Sesshomaru, who is Keita exactly?"

He simply looks ahead as he answers, "He is the oldest son of the current lord of the South. His father is a respectful man, but Keita is always making trouble. The only reason I even talk to him is to keep good relations." he explains.

It sounds as if Sesshomaru doesn't feel much for this guy. "He's a demon too right?" He merely nods at this.

After walking some miles we reach a rather large castle a bit away from a town. Just in time as raindrops are released from the darkening sky. "It's huge." I comment wide-eyed.

"Pretentious." scoffs Sesshomaru, nearly rolling his eyes.

"Don't worry, I like your place better." I smile at him, making him hum.

Walking up to the gate, the soldiers bow and announce our arrival. Once led inside a happy looking Keito meets us. "Welcome my friend, I thought you would show up. And you brought your lady friend as well, splendid. Come, let's sit and have a drink. I'll get the cook started on a meal."

We sit at a low table as servant poor three cups. I stare at the clear liquid before looking in wonder as the two men down it in one go. "What's wrong Kaname?" Keita asks.

"I've never had alcohol before." I mutter in admission, feeling a bit embaressed.

He hums, nodding. "I see. Go make her some tea." he tells the servant.

"Thank you." I say in appreciation.

He smiles, "No problem sweetheart. No need to start on that now, don't want you to embarrass yourself." he chuckles. I smile wirily at that.

I try to listen on as they talk about business but I'm not really interested, so instead I settle with watching my surroundings. The room is large with sliding doors on all sides of us. It's a bit dark really. Sesshomaru's house is much more open as you can look outside from almost any room in the building. This room on the other hand is hidden deep inside the castle. I remember when we came in, there was a large hallway with a staircase winding perhaps all the way to the top. You must have a great view from up there.

I get snapped out of my thoughts as food is placed before me. It looks really nicely made up and my stomach growls at the sight of it. It's been a while since I ate like this. On the way we make do with whatever we find, but it's tasty though and fills the stomach.

Keita seems to be a pretty nice guy once you get to know him, he seems so carefree and has a good sense of humor. He makes a lot of jokes during dinner, some not going well with Sesshomaru though, but he bares it. As expected the food was delicious and I am really having fun before I finally put down my chopsticks. I can barely suppress a yawn as fatigue hits me.

"How is your father?" asks Sesshomaru rather sluggishly. He looks a bit tired as well.

Keita smirks grimly, "He's dead." Our eyes widen at this revelation. How could he say such a thing like that?

Sesshomaru narrows his eyes, "What do you mean he's dead?"

Keita wipes the crumbs from his meal from his mouth with his sleeve carelessly. "It's just as I said. It wasn't easy, but it seems his obstinate son finally surpassed him." he states before downing a cup of sake.

My mouth is agape. Is he saying what I think he's saying? Keita laughs, "Don't look so surprised Sesshomaru. Weak-minded people are weak leaders after all. But you aren't like that are you? No, not you. That's why I had to find a different way to pin you down. Cowardly, I know. But the pay is good."

This turned bad so quickly, it leaves my head spinning. Sesshomaru growls as he stands up abruptly, the table turning over by the force. "Traitor." he hisses as his legs struggle to stay steady.

Keita stands up as well, facing him. I struggle to get up, but find my way behind Sesshomaru somehow. "What will you do? There is enough sedative inside you to down a dozen horses. You won't be awake for long, so let me explain."

Sesshomaru pulls out Bakusaiga and goes to attack Keita, but due to his sluggishness he gets blown away by Keita's blast. He slides through the paper doors, coming to a halt a few feet beyond. I gasp and try to reach him but am stopped by a hand grabbing the scruff of my neck. My feet are dangling two feet from the ground. "Sorry sweetheart, I can't let you leave yet. There is someone who likes to get their hands on you as well."