Chapter Text
The cool water splashed across Belrin's face. She patted it with a soft towel. The little girl sighed as she caught her reflection in the water basin. Worldly dark eyes stared up at her, aging her beyond her twelve years. Today was her birthday – and yet the little girl felt as if she had already lived a lifetime. So much had happened in the last few weeks especially. So much had happened since they had come to this strange world. Finally, Belrin's thoughts could settle. Finally, the little girl could truly process what it meant.
However, it went much further back than that. Her entire life had been full of adversity. She had been born into a large family facing poverty. While she had been too young to understand, Belrin now realized that each day had been a struggle. They hadn't had much, but that hadn't stopped the bandits that had ravaged her village. The violence that they had inflicted still haunted her. It had crippled her – rendering her mute. By sheer chance – and a streak of cruelty – she had been spared during the slaughter of her family. Instead, they had forced her to witness their brutal murders—leaving her behind as a shadow.
It had taken her years – and her own death – to overcome the horror.
Her own death also haunted her – especially now that she knew that her killer remained at large.
The wolf-demon hadn't cared that his wolves had killed innocents that day. His callous indifference to the fate of the villagers had chilled her. The image of his imposing figure remained seared into her memory. Belrin had instantly tried to flee to Sesshomaru. She had believed that he would aid her.
She had been too late.
Belrin could still feel the first wolf crashing into her back, its claws puncturing deeply. She could still feel the sharp teeth lock around her throat. Belrin rubbed it, feeling the phantom scars of her final moments. It felt fresh in the aftermath of Zedar's manipulation. He had dug deep into her worst memories and left them there to fester as open wounds. He had strengthened their hold to turn them into traps that would weaken her.
Taking a deep breath, Belrin squared her shoulders. It was time that she acknowledged that past and face it. She had endured despite it – she had revived able to speak. Belrin had learned to love and trust. She wouldn't let this sorcerer take that away from her – not now or ever.
Instead, Belrin would own it. These had been the worst moments of her young life – and they had made her who she was today. As much as she wished her family back or that the wolves had never come, the little girl knew that those events brought her to now. She wouldn't trade her life now for an unknown possibility that could never be.
Since breaking Zedar's coercion, Belrin saw everything clearly – perhaps for the first time ever. Her feeling of obligation to Sesshomaru had altered in the aftermath of the old sorcerer's manipulation. Prior, she had accepted with an innocent gratitude that he had saved her life and that she could never repay that debt. After seeing their mutual nightmare, Belrin knew it couldn't be that simple. Never again would she be enthralled to that nagging feeling of inadequacy – Belrin realized that she owed her life to Sesshomaru, but he owed his life to her in a tangled reciprocity. They needed each other – if nothing else than to balance much of their opposite natures.
The little girl adjusted the obi at her waist, smoothing a hand over the silken material. Belrin gently stroked a hairbrush through her raven locks. She hummed softly, ruminating upon the past week. The days where she would be a bystander had ended. She had protected Sesshomaru. She had helped him to protect Kagome. No more would she be the simple girl that waited to be saved. Glancing in the water, Belrin stared once more into her eyes. There, she saw a fierce determination.
Belrin didn't know what was yet to come. This new world was dangerous, unpredictable and frightening. It also held such promise. Her gifts in sorcery had shown her that. It had terrified her at first---but now she wouldn't trade it for her previous vulnerability. It gave her a powerful representation of her inner strength.
The little girl placed her hand over her heart, drawing in her Will. The familiar tingling flooded her. As she focused, Belrin realized that she'd always possessed this power. It had nothing to do with her ability to manipulate the world around her with it. It had everything to do with the inner steel that had been forged deep within. As she unclenched her Will, Belrin let her confidence blossom. No mater what they faced, she'd be ready.
“There you are, dear,” Polgara said. “We're all waiting for you.”
“Good morning, Polgara-sama,” Belrin said, bowing low.
The pair walked hand in hand towards the center of camp. As they approached, one by one, everyone around the breakfast fire stood. Some wished her happy birthday, others smiled. They welcomed Belrin as the guest of honor.
At the center, stood three figures: Belgarath, Poledra and Sesshomaru.
“Happy birthday, little sister,” the old sorcerer said. He pulled her into a tender hug, kissing her temple. As he pulled away, Belgarath winked. “Enjoy this one, Belrin. A few centuries from now and it'll be hard to remember that you have one.”
“One is here to remind you of the day you were whelped, Old Wolf,” Poledra remarked, her honey eyes amused. “One will do the same for Belrin.”
“As you wish, Poledra,” the old man said, a gentle smile on his face. “I recall we had this conversation many, many years ago.”
“We did. That is in the past. Today is Belrin's day.” Poledra stepped closer, taking Belrin into her arms. Her honey gaze locked with the little girl's, love swirling in their burnished depths. Poledra's fingers combed through her hair. The wolf-woman tucked some locks behind one of Belrin's ear. “One wishes you a happy birthday. May you have everything your heart desires, my Belrin.”
Belrin hugged Poledra, burying her face into her shoulder. She felt overwhelmed by all the attention. “Thank you, Poledra-sama.”
Sesshomaru stepped towards her, a soft expression softening his face. Warmth flickered in the depths of his gold eyes. He caressed her cheek, cupping her face in his calloused palm. The Demon Lord kissed her temple and nuzzled his nose into her hair. He took a deep breath. Sesshomaru whispered into her ear, “Happy birthday, Belrin.”
Belrin stood on her tiptoes, kissing Sesshomaru on the cheek. She tucked strands of silky silver hair behind a pointed ear. Her hand lingered on his face, her thumb brushing over his stripes. “Thank you, Sesshomaru-sama.”
The Demon Lord guided her to sit down next to him. She sat on a spread out blanket piled with cushions. It was a clear place of honor. Belrin glanced around, stunned by the sheer appreciation and attention shown her by the entire traveling party. Overwhelmed and embarrassed, Belrin tucked her face into Sesshomaru's shoulder, a small squeak emitting.
A soft amused chuckle rumbled from the Demon Lord's chest. His arm wound around her, holding her close. Belrin hugged him, taking a deep breath.
Belrin chastised, “It's not very nice to laugh at Belrin, Sesshomaru-sama. You shouldn't do that to her. She's noticed you tend to only laugh at her.”
Sesshomaru chuckled again, brushing his fingers through her hair. “It is never with malice, Belrin, this Sesshomaru assures you. It is in the joy you bring to his life. Besides, did you not want to hear me laugh more often?”
“Belrin did, but –”
Inuyasha interrupted, stating, “Are we going to open presents or what?”
“Inuyasha!” Kagome admonished.
Belrin glanced towards the half-demon. He fidgeted, his ears twitching with impatience. The little girl wondered if Inuyasha remembered who's birthday it was today. He crossed his arms and a surly expression twisted his lips into a pout. Belrin giggled softly, amused by his childish petulance.
Sesshomaru chuckled, too. His thought brushed her, “See, Belrin, you aren't the only person to make this Sesshomaru laugh.”
“Well, I guess I'll go first,” Silk said. He bowed low to Belrin, the gesture mocking yet playful. He offered her a small package wrapped in plain cloth. “I do hope that you'll find it useful.”
Belrin undid the strings and unfolded the cloth to reveal a small holstered knife. Her brows furrowed, unsure what to think of the strange gift. Why a knife? The little girl looked up and said politely, “Thank you, Kheldar-sama. Belrin appreciates it very much.”
A disapproving snort greeted her ears. Sesshomaru did not like this particular gift.
“Consider it insurance,” Silk said. “If she should ever need to defend herself and can't use her sorcery quickly or you're not there, she'll have this to fall back on.”
“I received my first knife at her age,” Velvet added. “She'll handle it well.” She looked at Belrin, making direct eye contact. “I know you're mature enough, dear Rin. Wear it in its holster at your ankle. It's less likely to be noticed or chafe as much there.”
“Thank you, Liselle-sama.”
“Very well,” Sesshomaru said, his tone resigned.
Velvet handed Belrin a small pouch. “I hope you will enjoy my gift. It's not nearly as practical.”
Belrin pulled the strings, revealing a delicate necklace. Silver and gold twisted into the shape of leaves. It seemed much shorter than her amulet. She handed it to Sesshomaru to examine.
The necklace pooled into his palm. It looked so small. He dangled it from his clawed fingers, twisting it. The light glinted off it, making the colors shimmer between silver and gold. It took on an ethereal quality.
Sesshomaru handed it back, a small smile on his lips. He said privately, “It is adequate. This Seshomaru much prefers your amulet, Belrin.”
Aloud, Sesshomaru said, “This Sesshomaru approves of this much better.” He gestured to the fox kit. “Boy, present your gift next.”
Shippo approached, bowing low to Belrin. He stood, offering her a small yellow and green box. “Happy birthday, Belrin-sama. I hope you'll enjoy them as much as when we colored before.”
Belrin took the small box into her hands, opening the lid. It revealed the neat rows of the different vibrantly hued crayons. This gift meant much sacrifice to the fox kit. He treasured anything from Kagome – for that is certainly who gave them to him. The little girl contemplated not accepting, knowing she didn't want to deprive him of something like that. Looking into his face, Belrin found an eager and pleased expression. He wanted to share these with her.
“Thank you, Shippo-kun,” Belrin said, smiling wide at the little boy. “But what if we share them instead? Belrin wouldn't want to be selfish.”
The fox kit's eyes went wide and he bowed again, whispering, “Thank you, Belrin-sama.”
“Perhaps there is hope for the boy after all,” Sesshomaru commented, an amused lilt to his thought.
“Sesshomaru-sama!” Rin admonished, tucking the crayons into the growing pile. She dipped her head to hide her smile. No need to encourage the Demon Lord's teasing of the fox kit---no matter how much she enjoyed this more playful side of his.
The unassuming Rivan King approached next. He had a small wrapped package. “I remember how much I had to learn when I became a sorcerer – how much I still do. Grandfather says that the most important thing we can do is become educated. I hope this helps start that journey.”
Belrin unwrapped the package, revealing an elaborate illuminated text. It was a small book, easy to transport. She traced a finger over its title, reading aloud, “A Guide to Botany and Its Uses.”
“You seem to love flowers. I found it in Mal Zeth and knew it'd be useful.” Garion smiled wryly. “Of course Aunt Pol might make an even better resource on the subject.”
“Thank you, Belgarion-sama.”
The Demon Lord took the tome from her, paging through it. His brows furrowed, making his crescent moon crinkle. The little girl failed to suppress a giggle. Sesshomaru arched an eyebrow, handing the book back.
Sesshomaru snorted. His thought brushed her. “Is something amusing, Belrin? Surely you are not laughing at this Sesshomaru after protesting my doing the same.”
“No, Sesshomaru-sama,” Belrin said, giggling more. “Belrin would never do that. She knows better than to insult your dignity, as Jaken-sama always says she does.”
“Does she now?”
Sango slid a small rectangular package towards the little girl. “It seems appropriate to give you this now, Rin. Happy birthday.”
Belrin unwrapped it, finding an exquisitely painted flower screen. Delicate cherry tree branches etched across its cherry wood surface. Small birds dotted them, appearing about to launch into flight. Beautiful pink and white blossoms graced the branches. Belrin ran a finger over them, delighted by the sleek feel under her finger pads. It must have taken days, weeks or months to paint.
“This is too good for Belrin, Sango-sama,” Belrin said.
“Nonsense.” Sango smiled. “I can't think of anyone more suited for it, Rin-chan. You love flowers more than anyone I know.”
“The slayer speaks the truth. Nothing is too good for you, Belrin,” Sesshomaru's thought affirmed. “It is a gift worthy of your honor.”
“You think so?”
“This Sesshomaru knows so.” He picked the screen up, examining it. “You needn't be so modest, Belrin.”
“Modest? Belrin senses that you're teasing her again, Sesshomaru-sama.”
“Perhaps. Perhaps not.”
Aloud, Belrin said to Sango, “Belrin will cherish this gift always.”
“I'm glad, Rin-chan. I know this screen was made just for you,” Sango replied. “Happy birthday.”
“I couldn't agree more, little girl,” Beldin said.
The hunchbacked sorcerer approached next, empty handed. The normal sheen of grime coating his face had been scrubbed clean, revealing weathered pale skin. His scraggly silver hair flowed, combed straight. His steel grey beard lacked the normal twigs or remnants of food. Beldin had cleaned up – had he done so just for her birthday?
“So the dwarf is capable of bathing,” Sesshomaru's thought observed. “This Sesshomaru would prefer that he do so more often.”
“Sesshomaru-sama, that's not very nice,” the little girl admonished, giggling softly.
“I'm not much for buying things,” Beldin began. “Anyone can do that, don't y' know?”
The old dwarf sorcerer held his hands out towards her, his meaty palms together. He truly had no gift for her. Belrin's brows furrowed, confused. She didn't need a gift, but he meant to present her with one, right? What would he do?
“I prefer that they come from the heart---be a creation from myself to you, little sister.”
Belrin felt the tug as Beldin drew in his Will. As he released it, it sounded hushed. It brushed her like gossamer wings. The pull of his Will gathering echoed as if it had become an insular force. No use of sorcery had ever sounded like this before.
In the cent of his palms, a small lily sprouted, budding before her eyes. Green leaves curled up and out. A soft blue tinged the delicate blossom. From it, an ephemeral, clean and pure scent wafted up to her nose. It was the most exquisite flower Belrin had ever seen – and a moment earlier it hadn't existed at all.
“I don't have much, little sister,” Beldin said. “I only have this to offer. I chose the day lily because I know you best match it. You are as delicate and sweet as its fragrance and yet as tenacious as its ability to grow despite the odds. You, Belrin, shall have this flower forever – it will never fade. Nor will you.”
Tears welled up in Belrin's eyes as she accepted the flower into her outstretched palms. She lifted it to her nose, inhaling the clean scent deeply. “Thank you, Beldin-sama. Belrin can never repay you for this gift. She will always treasure it.”
Beldin smiled crookedly. “Twas my pleasure, me darlin'.”
He engulfed her in a giant hug. The hunchbacked sorcerer gently kissed her temple. He nuzzled an ear. “Being my sister is repayment enough, Belrin. I couldn't ever ask for more. Happy birthday.”
Belrin presented the flower to Sesshomaru for his inspection. The Demon Lord accepted it with a look of wonder etched across his face. He sniffed it deeply, his eyes going wide.
“It smells just like you, Belrin. How?” Sesshomaru asked in her mind.
“It does?” Belrin searched his face, finding the awe in his eyes. “Is that good?”
“Better than good.”
Aloud, Sesshomaru said, his voice thick with emotion, “You have honored Belrin with this gift. This Sesshomaru is astonished by your talents. He is proud that you are her brother.”
“No need t' thank me, pretty boy. She deserves it and more,” Beldin replied.
Miroku approached next, a small pouch in his cursed hand. “I, too, do not have much. I pray that my gift will be acceptable.”
Belrin took the black velvet pouch. The clatter of beads greeted her ears. The little girl pulled the silk draw string, revealing a string of blue prayer beads.
“I thought you might want something that can help you with your sorcery, Rin. I find my meditation grows exponentially when I have beads to focus my attention upon,” Miroku explained.
Belrin pulled the string of beads out, letting them coil in her palm. They had a weight to them, grounding her with their substance. They would help her use her Will – especially in her lessons. She looked up from their azure beauty, finding Miroku's gently smile. The little girl returned it, pleased with his gift to her.
“Thank you, Miroku-sama. Belrin can use these to focus her Will all the better.”
Belrin turned towards Sesshomaru, letting him inspect the monk's offering. The Demon Lord picked up the string between his clawed thumb and finger, allowing the beads to dangle. He huffed quietly, an approving glint in his eyes.
“These have been blessed and purified by you, have they not, monk?” Sesshomaru asked, an eyebrow arched. He coiled the beads back into the drawstring purse.
“Yes, Sesshomaru-sama,” Miroku said, a humble expression crossing his face. “I am not surprised that one as astute as yourself would notice such a detail.”
“This Sesshomaru is pleased. If it should help Belrin, I shall be in your debt.”
“No debt to repay but mine for the other night,” Miroku replied. He folded his hands in front of himself and bowed to Belrin. “Happy birthday, Rin. May the Buddha's blessing be upon you.”
Ce'Nedra approached next, her hands clutching a small box. A wry smile crossed her face. In a nervous gesture, the Rivan Queen sucked on a lock of copper hair. “My gift doesn't seem as profound now. But every girl needs something to make their hair pretty. Here.”
Belrin accepted the offered box. She opened it, revealing a pair of butterfly combs. The wings on them lifted up as if in flight. The detail etched across them gave life to them. Various gemstones enhanced its pewter surface, sparkling in the sun. Their craftsmanship seemed too much for Belrin.
“Thank you, Ce'Nedra-sama, they're beautiful,” Belrin said, smiling wide at the Rivan Queen.
“Here, let me put them in,” Ce'Nedra picked up a comb. She ran her fingers through her hair, gently sliding one comb in. The Rivan Queen did the same with the other one before kissing Belrin on the temple. “There. Now you look even prettier. They suit you.”
Sesshomaru nodded his approval. He said privately, “They reveal your beautiful face, Belrin.”
Belrin patted the wings of a comb, glancing up at him. She said, “You think so? Belrin thought you liked her hair loose---like yours, Sesshomaru-sama.”
“Sometimes. Sometimes not.”
Kagome smiled, approaching next. “My gift should go well with those, Rin-chan.”
The miko handed her another box. Belrin opened it, finding a beautiful sapphire bracelet. She remembered seeing Kagome pick it out at that store---the one where that dreadful boy had cornered her. She lifted it out, watching the sunlight glint off of the stones.
“Thank you, Kagome-sama.” Belrin bowed her head to Kagome. “It is beautiful.”
“What, no thank you for this Sesshomaru? You disappoint, Belrin,” Sesshomaru teased. “The gift is from both of us, after all.”
Belrin giggled softly. “Belrin thanks you, too, Sesshomaru-sama. She knows you picked it out. She watched.”
“Is that so? How mischievous of you. You shouldn't peek at gifts.”
Belrin laughed again, glad that the other part of their shopping experience had been forgotten.
“I thought it might compliment your beautiful necklace, Rin-chan.” The miko put it on, latching it closed. “I was right! Blue suits you, you know.”
Belrin smiled, hugging her. “Belrin has noticed that, too. It will go well with her amulet.”
“Blue does indeed suit you, sister,” Polgara said. Over her arms draped blue fabric. “I think those of us who serve our Master find it to be our favorite over time. I thought you might like to have a couple new outfits. One you can save for our next adventure in a royal court. The other you might do well with on the road to the Karandese mountains.”
Belrin accepted them, examining their craftsmanship. One was a plain brown made of heavy wool---meant for heavy travel and bitter conditions. The other in blue awed the little girl. She much preferred her yukata to the fancy gowns of this world. As she unfurled the garment, Belrin gasped. Polgara had sewn an exquisite yukata – much finer than even the ones Sesshomaru had commissioned.
“I borrowed one of your other outfits to make this,” Polgara said. A wry smile crossed her lips. “I'll admit it took me several attempts. I had help from Sesshomaru that I found invaluable. You will be the envy of everyone at any royal court.”
Rich blue silk made the yukata. The color shimmered under the sunlight. Pristine white lilies swept across it, giving it a graceful touch. The silver obi completed the outfit, making a striking statement. Belrin knew that she would never wear anything finer.
Belrin looked up, tears welling in her eyes. She looked at Polgara and then Sesshomaru. “You helped with this, Sesshomaru-sama?”
“Of course this Sesshomaru did. You, Belrin, deserve it,” Sesshomaru answered. “This Sesshomaru hopes that you will wear it to many events in the years to come.”
Polgara beamed at Belrin. “I suspect that you may cause a fashion trend with this, my dear. As they say, imitation is the best form of flattery.”
Belrin folded it carefully, not wanting to damage it. She said, her voice thick with emotion, “Thank you, Polgara-sama, Sesshomaru-sama. Belrin will treasure it always.”
Inuyasha and Durnik approached next, carrying a bulky bundle between them. Both wore proud smiles as they unveiled their gift. A large, rich blanket spread before her. It comprised of thick brown fur peppered with grey. The craftsmanship spoke to the care with which it was made. Belrin caressed it, the softness swallowing her fingers.
“How –” Belrin asked, stunned that they had found something so expensive in Mal Zeth. “It must cost far too much for Belrin to accept.”
“Nonsense,” Inuyasha said, snorting. His chest puffed up and he stood taller. His ears twitched. “It didn't cost nothing. I am the one that took the bear down. Your blanket didn't come from one of those fancy ass stores.”
“And I tanned it and finished it,” Durnik said, a gentle smile crossing his plain face. “We know you'll need it in the mountains.”
Belrin gasped, her hand stopping mid-stroke. “You made this for Belrin?”
“Sure did, pup. Nothing but the best for you. I didn't need any stupid shit from a store,” Inuyasha said, crossing his arms. “It's the best gift I could come up with – and it's useful, too.”
“Thank you, Inuyasha-sama, Durnik-sama,” Belrin said, petting the new blanket. “Belrin will be honored to use it.”
“You've outdone yourself, little brother,” Sesshomaru said. “This certainly will be useful and it is beautiful, too. You honor Belrin.”
Inuyasha rubbed the back of his neck, a deep blush coloring his cheeks. He muttered, “You've gone soft, jackass.”
Kagome leaned over, whispering, “Let it lie, Sesshomaru. Trust me.”
Sesshomaru snorted, an amused smile ghosting his lips. “As you wish, little sister.”
The wolf-woman knelt down next to Belrin, hugging her. She said, “One finds this gift giving unnecessary, but if it is a custom, I will do so. You, Belrin dear, are worth celebrating.”
The flutter of wings filled the air. One sparrow landed on Belrin's shoulder. Then another. Larks, hummingbirds, doves, chickadees and many other song birds followed. They surrounded the little girl. They all regarded her with their beady eyes. As if on cue, the birds burst into a trilling song.
Belrin's eyes misted and she bit her lip, trying not to cry. All these people loved her so much – and now nature itself came to honor her. She said, her voice wavering, “Thank you, Poledra-sama. Belrin couldn't ever ask for more.”
The sparrow on her shoulder chirped, “We knew we had to come and celebrate your birthday, Belrin. You deserve it. Poledra told us. And we had to bring a gift.”
A pair of doves flew near, bearing the weight of a flower crown. It had a beautiful purple rose at its center. Rich ivy and white lilies surrounded it. The crown looked amazing. This gift Belrin couldn't accept for herself. It belonged to another.
“Please, give it to your companion,” the sparrow said. “We know you enjoy making these for him. Poledra helped create it.”
“Belrin would be honored.” She accepted the delicate crown. The little girl turned, smiling at Sesshomaru. “This is for you, Sesshomaru-sama. The birds want you to wear it.”
The Demon Lord bowed his head, letting her place it atop his hair. The purple blossom obscured his crescent moon---making it seem like a full moon had risen on his forehead. The white lilies made his silver hair appear pearly. This adornment only enhanced Sesshomaru's ephemeral beauty.
“Thank you, Belrin,” Sesshomaru thought. “You honor this Sesshomaru.”
The birds flitted around him, trilling their approval. They brushed their wings against Belrin and Sesshomaru's cheeks. The ticklish feathers made Belrin giggle. The song birds spiraled upwards, leaving only the echo of their song in their wake.
“Happy birthday, Belrin! We hope to fly with you next year!” The sparrows called.
Poledra embraced Belrin. “Soon, one will teach you how if you want. Happy birthday, my dear Belrin.”
Belgarath approached, a soft smile gracing his lips. It made his weathered face kind and open. He offered his hand to her. “Please stand, little sister.”
Belrin stood, wavering a moment as her legs tingled back to life. They had fallen asleep from sitting so long. Sesshomaru's firm hand supported her at the small of her back. She thought, “Thank you, Sesshomaru-sama.”
“You're welcome.”
“Long, long ago, I was once known as a boy named Garath. Much like you, I had to earn my true identity and my true place as Belgarath, First Disciple of Aldur,” Belgarath began. “You, little sister, have earned the right to be known to all no longer as simply Rin but as Belrin. Bel, to my Master, means beloved. You are beloved by all gathered here and those not able to join us.”
Belrin wiped a tear from an eye, biting her lip so not to cry. She did not know how she'd ever live up to what her new name implied---but she knew she'd never be alone---never again. The little girl left abandoned by her family's slaughter now had a new family.
This one chose her.
“Thank you, Belgarath-sama.”
“I'm not finished, little sister. You'll find that I can be a bit verbose. It'll stop being irritating sometime around your 2000th or 3000th birthday,” the old man said, winking.
“Not likely, Old Wolf,” Polgara chimed.
“Not now, Pol,” Belgarath chastised. “Again, back in that village of Gara, my people had a custom of blessing our first born. You are my sister, not my daughter, but it is fitting that I bless you on your first birthday as Belrin. Our Master commanded it of me – and I will not disobey.”
“Belrin would be honored to receive this blessing.”
“Bow your head, little sister.”
Belrin did as told, a feeling of solemnity settling over her.
“I, Belgarath, First Disciple of Aldur, bless you, Belrin. May you serve our Master faithfully for the remainder of your days,” the old sorcerer said, his voice booming.
The weight of Belgarath's hand rested upon Belrin's head in benediction. At his touch, the little girl felt a jolt of power shoot through her. In that moment, her Will increased a hundredfold. Belrin gasped as it filled her. At her throat, Belrin's amulet grew warm. It became the focal point for her power.
Belgarath's hand lifted away. Belrin opened her eyes, staring up at her big brother in wonder. She saw awe etch its way across his face. He had unshed tears in his eyes.
“You truly are one of us now,” Belgarath whispered.
“Her hair – it's streaked with silver now – her eyes, they have have silver specks,” Inuyasha whispered. “How –”
Belrin startled at that. She pulled her hair before her face, finding the raven locks streaked with silver throughout. Their gleam matched the exact shade of Sesshomaru's hair – and Polgara's single frost lock. She mused that Polgara must have gained hers the same way. The silver glinted in the sunlight, making the color incandescent. Somehow, the black surrounding it seemed more like onyx than raven's wings. It mesmerized her. Belrin would never be ordinary again.
“Everyone, I present to you Belrin, Disciple of Aldur,” Belgarath said, his voice full of authority.
“Belrin,” Sesshomaru's awed thought brushed her.
The little girl looked up into Sesshomaru's astonished face. Reverence flooded his golden eyes. He lowered them and bowed low to her, the gesture graceful. In the movement, Sesshomaru's hair cascaded in a silver curtain. Belrin gasped, overwhelmed by his display of humility. The Demon Lord had never bowed before anyone as long as she had known him.
“Sesshomaru-sama?” the little girl asked, stunned.
The Demon Lord raised himself to his full height. He tucked her hair behind her ear. “You need never call this Sesshomaru that again, Belrin, Disciple of Aldur. You are my equal.”
“You honor Belrin – Sesshomaru,” Belrin replied. She bowed low in return, her eyes cast down in respect.
Aloud, the Demon Lord said, “There is but one more gift – one this Sesshomaru should have given to you awhile ago. Durnik, please bring it out now.”
The smith walked towards them, leading a beautiful silver mare. The horse nickered, her shock of white hair billowing around her gentle face.
Durnik stopped, offering Belrin an apple. “Here. Get to know her. She'll take good care of you if you take good care of her.”
The weight of the apple settled into Belrin's palm. She stepped closer, shocked. Never had she expected Sesshomaru to gift her a mount of her own. She had half expected to plead with someone like Poledra to persuade the Demon Lord.
Belrin offered the fruit. Velvet lips nibbled her hand as the mare crunched the apple. Soft brown eyes met hers, a gentle trust in them. Belrin raised a hand to pat her nose, hesitation in the gesture. She couldn't believe that she could keep this horse.
The mare nudged Belrin's shoulder, snorting. The little girl laughed, throwing her arms around the animal's neck.
“You're welcome, Belrin,” Sesshomaru said.
Belrin turned from her horse, hugging the Demon Lord tight. “Thank you, Sesshomaru-s –. Belrin loves her. You saved the best gift for last.”
“It is not easy for this Sesshomaru.” The Demon Lord's fingers carded through her hair. He kissed her temple. “I only want what's best for you. Happy birthday, Belrin. May it be everything you ever wanted.”
Belrin kissed his cheek. “It is – because of you, Sesshomaru.”