Rin // Relations

Rin's existence is yet another shining example of Sesshoumaru's arrogance—even though he clearly despises humans, he's not above disobeying himself if he feels intrigued to do so. Why Rin is allowed to travel amongst Sesshoumaru's party is never explored. Rin herself doesn't seem to know the reason, as she questions whether Sesshoumaru will come for her during her abduction in Volume 23. Whether or not Sesshoumaru knows the reason is also a mystery, and probably something that will remain a mystery for the remainder of the series.

Rin's adoration for Sesshoumaru is obvious—an adoration I'd go so far as to call genuine "love" (i.e. love in the filial sense). It's apparent to Rin that Sesshoumaru is "plenty strong" (Volume 21, Chapter 203) and could easily leave her behind if he so desired. She doesn't seem as concerned with that in recent issues, as Sesshoumaru has gone through varying stages of hell to get her back. Thus far, Sesshoumaru has rescued Rin—from Naraku—twice (Volume 23; Volume 27).

It's also important to note that Rin is amazingly obedient, proven in Volume 17, Chapter 163, when Sesshoumaru tells Rin, "don't move," and she stops mid-stride to obey his command. Though her antics are thrown in for added humor, it emphasizes the strength of her attachment. However, despite her obedience, Rin is known for throwing fits (i.e. protesting) when she's left behind.

With the exception of Sesshoumaru and his party, Rin has nothing. It would seem that she considers them her new "family," though this is only personal opinion.

Despite his role as Sesshoumaru's evil henchman, Jaken serves as Rin's "caretaker" and unofficial babysitter. Jaken feels burdened by Rin's presence, and often questions Sesshoumaru's reasonings behind bringing Rin along (for which he is promptly squashed and/or pummeled). Being the most talkative member of the party, Rin looks to Jaken for conversation, as well as protection—limited as it may be—when danger strikes.

Since Rin is always curious about Sesshoumaru's whereabouts, Jaken spends most of his time answering her questions, and sulking because Sesshoumaru left him behind. Rin is usually bored when she's left with Jaken, though it's hard to tell if it's because of Jaken, or because she simply wants to travel with Sesshoumaru.

Rin uses the mount as both a bed, and a means of transportation. Rather than travel long distances on foot, Rin is usually situated on top of the beast, quietly trotting along, or fast aleep on its back. When Rin isn't riding the beast, she's guiding it along by the reigns. If Jaken and Sesshoumaru leave, they usually leave the mount behind as, I assume, a means of protection.

Although the mount is easily three times Rin's size, there is never an instance when she feels threatened by its enormous stature; rather, she handles the beast with surprising skill. The mount is probably a pet of sorts to Rin, though such a claim is merely speculation.

Kagura and Rin interact very little. Any "connection" they have presents itself via Sesshoumaru's encounters with Kagura about Naraku, and the power he holds over Kagura's life. Rin acts as a spectator to Kagura and Sesshoumaru, making off-handed comments about their relationship, or wondering what will become of Kagura once she is left to her own resources.

Although Rin fears Kagura following her abduction (Volume 23, Chapters 219-220, 222-223), that fear is quickly washed away when Kagura repeatedly appears with no intention of bringing harm to any member of Sesshoumaru's party. In Volume 36, Rin attempts to save Kagura's life when they come upon her battered body in a river. In Volume 35, Rin makes the comment that Kagura "is probably in love with Sesshoumaru-sama" when she gives him the youki crystal—and many bouts of praise. When Rin tells Jaken he should except the youki crystal, she seems almost eager to aid Kagura in her quest for freedom (speculation only).

They may have had little to do with one another, but Rin never seems to hold any grudges against Kagura for her abduction, and seems generally concerned for her plight.