As Death Gives Life

Chapter 40 – The Cleansing of the West

A/N: Hello all! I am so happy! A Single Spark is back up and running. For everyone on AFF.net and Animespiral... I have updated ‘As Death’ on A.S.S. as well. Here’s the link to my fanfics there, just in case you feel more comfortable on a strictly Kagome/Sesshomaru site. http://kagsess.pixelled.com/fanficstories.php?aid=1141


~~~~****~~~~

“I’m coming with you, damn it!”

“No HELL you are not!” Inuyasha growled. He would give her anything, but this.... this he would not give.

“I can help! You know that I can!” Kat screamed in frustration.

“Damn woman! I said NO! NO! NO! You are not going! You will stay here with Isamu. He needs you and it will not be safe there. Think Kat. If something.... were to happen....” He couldn’t finish. “I can’t focus on the battle when I’m trying to keep your ass alive!”

Kat sighed. That was as close as she would get to having Inuyasha voice his true feelings about this. He was worried for her safety and would not be able to fight while concerned that she may be in danger. But GODS she didn’t want to see him off to fight this battle without her. What if... what if.... he never returns?

Tears glistened in her lovely peach eyes. She looked up to her brave mate and tried to put on a smile for his benefit even though she felt like sobbing uncontrollably. How would she go on without Inuyasha? He was everything to her. He loved her! He was the only one who ever really loved her. “I...,” she began, but her voice cracked and the tears began to fall.

Inuyasha pulled Kat into his arms and kissed her forehead before nuzzling her neck. He inhaled deeply, savoring her soothing scent. This was torture. He hated to be separated from her and Isamu. They meant more to him than anything, but he had to go. He owed it to Sesshomaru and Kagome, as well as his niece and his little nephew.... their future was at stake.

His brother called for his assistance only once before and during that time he had been pinned to the Goshinboku, unable to respond. This time, he would not let him down.

~~~~****~~~~

“Don’t even say it monk,” Sango warned.

“Say what my dearest Sango?” Miroku questioned.

“I’m going, and that’s final.” Sango tossed a few other items of clothing into the traveling bag.

“I just wish that you would see reason, my beautiful Sango. This will be no place for a mother.” He said while pointing to their sleeping children.

Sango turned to look at them as well. She then turned to her husband, who she loved more than anything. “Try to understand Miroku. They are the reason that I have to go. Kaede will watch the young ones and Masahito will be there to do most of the work. Miroku, their future is at stake here. What do you think it will be like here if the Western lands fall? I, for one, am not willing to risk my children’s future when I can do something to help.” Sango pulled out her uniform and slowly traced her hand over the worn leather. She still practiced regularly and she and Miroku had slain their fair share of demons in the area, but this was more. This was really dangerous. It had been a long time since danger like this nipped at her heels. It both excited and terrified her.

Miroku watched his wife with admiration and sadness. He wished with all his heart that she could turn her back on this, but that was selfish of him. He only wanted her safety, but one of the things he loved the most about Sango was her willingness to fight for what she believed in. With a heavy sigh he said, “Well my love, we should get some sleep, for tomorrow at first light we will be leaving for the West.”

~~~~****~~~~

Jiyuu lay beside his sweet and beautiful little mate and watched as she slept peacefully. Her face still looked as innocent and young as the day he drew her tantalizing blood into his mouth. He leaned into her neck and nuzzled his mark. She moaned softly and he smiled. A slight movement and a sexy shift revealed her swollen belly, and Jiyuu affectionately ran his clawed hand over it.

This was so hard.

Tomorrow he would be leading his men out to battle the oncoming army of the South. His promotion to General meant a great deal of stress had been placed on his shoulders. Everyone was depending on him to lead them to victory, and by the Gods he intended to do just that.... but.... but he may not come out of this alive.

This could be the last time that he ever lay here enjoying his lovely Rin. He may not ever see his unborn child. Would it be a strong male pup, or a delicate flower like his Rin? The thought that he may never know was a hard thing to bear.


~~~~****~~~~

Kagome sat in the garden looking up at her handsome prince. He stood tall, watching her face as if it would be the last time that he ever gazed upon her smile. It made her heart twist in fear. She loved him so much, and the thought of his death was a terrible burden on her soul.

She did not delusion herself into thinking that Sesshomaru would stay out of the battle or that he would head up the rear, as most human lords tended to do. No, her mate would lead his youkai and fight by their side. She could feel his excitement for the kill.

On the exterior he appeared serene, the epitome of calm, but his eyes betrayed him. Kagome could see the turmoil in his eyes. He feared for her and their children. These barbaric times held no compassion for women and children. If Sesshomaru lost his life, and the House of the Moon were to fall, the enemy would seek their deaths in order to insure their final victory. It was scary, to think that a whole army could be seeking your head, and the heads of your sweet children.

She was trying so hard to be strong. She didn’t want him to worry about her when he had so much already on his shoulders. This was more than she ever bargained for. She was just a girl from the future who loved a demon from the past. Now she was facing a youkai war, and she was scared to death.

~~~~****~~~~

Sesshomaru sat atop Ah-Un, in full battle regalia. The excitement of the upcoming battle was thick in the air. His men were ready to defend with their lives and he felt confident that the enemy would fall. His children and Kagome were deep within the castle, safely tucked away... for now.

His mate was not one for hiding when she thought that she should be fighting, and unfortunately, Kebechet was equally stubborn. He had little doubt that they would attempt to join the fray, but he could not risk worrying over such things now. Besides, he had a plan to keep them in line.

The fog hung thickly over the moist green grass. The wind seemed to have stilled in eerie preparation for accepting the dead souls soon to be released. He urged the two-headed beast on, walking down the line, holding himself tall and erect. Pride and power oozed from his person. He glanced at his General, Jiyuu, who sat atop his own draconic beast, blasting out orders and preparing the soldiers.

He had the utmost confidence in Jiyuu. He had chosen well when he made the decision to advance him to High General. Jiyuu possessed a quick intelligence and powerful strength, and he would not fail his Lord.

A familiar scent came to him and Sesshomaru sighed deeply. Without turning he said, “Greetings... Inuyasha.”

Inuyasha stepped up arrogantly and said, “Keh. I just came out to tell you that me, Miroku and Sango will be staying here at the gates. We’ll defend the castle with our last breath. You ain’t got to worry about Kagome. I’ll protect her.”

“Hn.... Is that supposed to leave me feeling comforted?” he replied sarcastically.

“Whatever. Just keep your pompous ass alive so I ain’t got to take care of this shit-hole.” Inuyasha growled before stomping off.

Sesshomaru ignored his brother’s foul mouth in favor for something else that gained his immediate attention. Marching through his gates he found a battalion of youkai. All roosters, being led by their Lord, Buhito. Even from this distance Sesshomaru could see the eager smirk on the face of the bird. He, as well as his men, were decked out for battle. Sharp metal gaffs clinked with each step they took. Though the battalion was not a large one, the warriors from the North looked ready to lay waste to the enemy.

The tall proud inuyoukai inwardly sighed, keeping his stoic facade. He supposed he would be forced to accept the rooster’s aid, though it pained him to do so. He called readiness to his troops and awaited the battalion of fowl to step up.

Buhito bowed slightly to the high lord, Sesshomaru, then placed a wicked grin on his face. “Ohayou, Sesshomaru-sama! I have come to offer our most skilled warriors to your cause. I dare say, I am quite ready to spill some enemy blood.”

Sesshomaru regarded the bird for a moment. Yes it did appear the Northern Lord was ready for the battle ahead. “Hn... This Sesshomaru accepts your assistance as ally to the West. Have your men fall in line.” He then turned his head slightly and said, “General Jiyuu.”

Jiyuu heard his Lord call him and responded with a hard, “At your command, my Lord!”

Sesshomaru gave a curt nod toward the rooster. “Jiyuu, procure placement for the Northern warriors.”

Jiyuu’s fist hit firmly over his heart and he replied, “Hai! Sesshomaru-sama!”

Shippo made his way to Sesshomaru. He literally felt the bloodlust of the youkai soldiers seeping into his senses. It stirred his own inner beast, leaving his blood raging for the kill. This attack against the West would not go unpunished. The enemy would suffer for their transgressions and he was willing to lay down his life for those he loved.

Kagome, Kebechet, Sakuma, Rin and her unborn child. They were his family and he would do whatever it took to keep them safe. The years had been hard ones, for him. The loss of his parents at such a young age had left him virtually helpless in a harsh unforgiving world, but along came Kagome and Inuyasha, and his life would never be the same. They led him on a wild adventure that taught him many things. Loyalty, bravery, trust and love. He owed them much, and today was his day to prove that he could protect his family.

“Sesshomaru-sama! Ohayou. Are you ready to kick some Southern youkai butt?!” Shippo greeted the inu lord with a mischievous smirk.

Sesshomaru turned to regard the kitsune. Shippo stood before him dressed in an assassins combination of brown and black leather. His long auburn hair was tied low on his neck and the metal of his various weapons flashed in the early morning light. “Fox, you would do well to avoid picking up Kagome’s exasperating use of our language.”

Shippo laughed, ignoring the sharp retort, for he was used to such from Sesshomaru. “But you have to admit, my lord, it does fit this situation perfectly.” All he got in answer was the trademark “Hn.” Shippo grinned and bowed slightly. “Where would you have me, Sesshomaru-sama?”

Sesshomaru raised a dark, perfectly formed brow in answer. He was sure the fox was not going to like where he would assign him, but he had made this decision long before now and he refused to change it. “You will remain inside the castle, and guard the Lady Kagome, as well as my offspring, with your life.”

Shippo was certain his heart had fallen to his knees. He was anxious to do battle! His blood-beast yearned for the kill. It wanted to feel the blood of the enemy coat his hands. This was his chance to really battle alongside his fellow youkai and prove that he was a true warrior! “But....,” he began.

“Do not presume to question the orders of your superior, fox.” Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes and waited for the submission from his underling. The kitsune bowed, albeit reluctantly, and promptly did an about-face, thus taking his leave.

Shippo was very angry, but there was nothing he could do. Sesshomaru assigned him to baby-sitting, instead of fighting alongside the troops. It was a hard blow to his ego. He entered the castle and sought out his charges. They were all sitting in the tower room, watching as Sakuma chased his ball around the floor. All eyes immediately looked up, and Sakuma wasted no time in running to his side.

Kagome could sense that Shippo was very upset, but had no idea why. “Hi Shippo-chan. Is something wrong?” He looked at her then and growled roughly with narrowed eyes. For the first time Kagome was confronted with the anger of an adult Shippo. It was almost... frightening if she didn’t know he would never harm them.

She was well aware that Sesshomaru had spent a great deal of time training Shippo in the arts of espionage and combat. She had watched as the adult version of her little kitsune friend became a trained warrior, and she knew that Shippo had been used, successfully, on several missions for the West, but never before had she been witness to the more primal side of her fox friend. This was a Shippo that she was unfamiliar with and it concerned her.

Shippo stepped away from Sakuma and closer to Kebechet, who was also well aware of the tightly controlled rage within the fox. She felt no fear of him, though, for she knew that Shippo would never hurt her or her family. She stepped up and placed a gentle hand on his arm, and it all became clear to her.

With a caring, calm voice, Kebechet said, “Shippo-chan, please try to understand why Father Sesshomaru has requested this of you. It is truly an honor that he would ask such, for you above all others, have been given charge of the thing that he values most.”

Shippo looked at her then and felt a little of his fury melt away. Perhaps she was right? Perhaps Sesshomaru did not feel that he was incapable of holding his own in battle? He looked away from the clear blue eyes of the beautiful Kebechet and looked around the room. His piercing emerald eyes focused on Kagome, the closest thing to a mother he’s had since a pup. Her warm smile greeted him and he felt his heart swell with love for her. Sakuma stood by her side, watching him, clearly confused as to why his hero was acting so strangely. Then there was the lovely young Rin, sitting next to Kagome, and positively glowing with life. She was smiling brightly at him, and he felt a surge of protectiveness tear through his soul.

“Jaken,” Shippo called. When the imp stepped into the room he issued his orders. “You will stay here and guard the women and children. I will take up guard at the foot of the stairwell. If the enemy gets past me, you will be responsible for their lives.”

Jaken’s chest swelled with pride. He knew the value of these to his beloved master, and it was an honor that the skilled kitsune would trust his abilities enough to protect them if all else failed. “Hai, Shippo-sama! You can count on me!”

Kagome smiled once more at Shippo, now understanding why he was so angry. Apparently Sesshomaru refused to let him fight alongside the other warriors. She had to wonder how much of that order was based on his worry over them, or his worry over Shippo.

Kebechet appeared by her side with a grim expression on her fair face. “They are here.”

Kagome shivered at her daughters’ morose announcement. The next hours would determine the rest of their lives.

~~~~****~~~~

The baritone echo of the warning horn resounded through the still morning air. His golden eyes flashed and narrowed to mere slits. It was time. The enemy had arrived.

He issued the command to forward march and Jiyuu took over from there. Beside him, his General rode as the army of the West advanced toward the gates. They would take the fight to them, outside of the castle walls.

Inuyasha stood at the top of the great wall. Beside him stood Sango and Miroku. Both a little older than when they used to fight side by side for the Shikon shards, but age had only improved their skills. They watched, along with the dozens of soldiers strategically placed along the same wall, while the Western youkai army marched through the massive gates and out to meet the enemy.

The sounds of thousands of feet marching in unison surpassed all other sound. At the head of it all sat Sesshomaru atop Ah-Un with Jiyuu by his side. The red and white flags of the West flapped in the wind as the warriors headed out to do battle for their homeland.

With the last soldier, the massive gates were closed and secured. Inuyasha could feel his heart pounding in his chest, but he forced his body to remain calm. He was ready for this. Looking forward to it actually. It had been a long time since he had a real fight, and he was going to enjoy this.

“What are they doing, Inuyasha?” Sango asked. She could no longer see Sesshomaru, because they had moved far out now, but the horde of soldiers had stopped their forward march so she knew something was going on. Inuyasha grunted and said, “It looks like Sesshomaru is facing off against the one responsible for this mess.”

Sesshomaru narrowed his eyes as he took in those before him. The woman he recognized as the Lady Kiyori of the South. The late Fuskae’s mate. Beside her stood two kitsune males and one female, none of whom were in battle gear. The male closest to Kiyori stepped up with his mother at his side.

The rumble of the demons behind them silenced at once when the male shouted, “Sesshomaru! You have committed a grievous crime against our house! For the death of our father, Lord Fuskae, who was innocent of crimes that YOU convicted him of, we seek vengeance! Your iron rule of youkai will end today! Human lover! You continue to pollute these lands by allowing humans to live and propagate on your borders and the borders of your allies! For these crimes you will pay with your life!”

Sesshomaru gave a bored, uncaring look to the arrogant misled youth. It was obvious that his wretched mother had spent many years filling her children’s heads with false dribble. He only felt a pang of anger when called a ‘human lover’. It was an accusation that hit a bit too close to home. He snarled and made ready. His only response was to shout, “Time to DIE!”

The proclamation of his lord was the cue he had been waiting for. Jiyuu turned on his mount and shouted, “ATTACK!!!! LEAVE NO ENEMY ALIVE!!!!”

Ah-Un released a blast of lightening energy that the Southern ‘Lords and Ladies’ barely dodged. The awesome blue power of the dragons’ attack cut down dozens of unprepared soldiers behind them. Their screams were the beginning of chaos.

Sesshomaru unsheathed the Tokijin and slashed through three approaching youkai on his left just as his steed tore a portion of neck from another. Never pausing in the fluid motion, Sesshomaru reversed his swing and cut through the right. Cries of agony sang a sweet song in his ears and a feral grin graced his smooth face. Streaks of crimson life danced through the air as the killing perfection took down his prey.

“Poison Claw!” he shouted as he ripped through the chest of a snarling boar with his left. The call of death still hung heavy in the air when Sesshomaru shouted, “Dragon Strike!” A blinding blue light exploded from Tokijin and tore over the countryside. From the hardest rock to the most delicate blade of grass, the earth was demolished in its path. Dozens of the enemy were blown violently through the air. He paid the morbid scene no heed and instead lashed out with his Dakkasou to cut two idiot badgers down.

The demon lord was having an exceptionally pleasing time.

To his far left he caught sight of an enormous flash of yellow light. He instantly recognized the blast of Tetsusaiga. The scent of the Wind Scar drifted in the air around him. Sesshomaru also caught a brief glimpse of the demon slayers’, Hiraikotsu, as it cut through the belly of another boar, before returning to its mistress. The taiyoukai winced briefly when a sharp pain cut through his calve. He swiftly turned and decapitated the lizard who dared cut him. The lizards’ blood made a gushing show, splattering his back and turned face. Sesshomaru roared and licked the fluid from his lips with an evil grin.

He always loved a bloodbath.

With fluid grace, Sesshomaru rose to his feet atop the fighting dragon and prepared to dismount. In seconds he was airborne, turning a perfect arc high above the heads of his enemies. With a downward swing of his demonic blade he cut through two more Southern youkai. In the midst of his acrobatic maneuver, Sesshomaru caught sight of Lord Buhito. The bird had transformed in order to utilize his deadly beak. It was a grisly sight, to watch the rooster deal out death. The taiyoukai had to admit that Buhito was born to fight.

Jiyuu Leaped from the back of his gray dragon and lopped the head from a fool trying to stick him in the back. He growled and lashed out, shouting, “Saber Claw!” His long black claws grew five inches, giving the dark general six full inches of razor sharp weaponry. He sliced through the face and chest of a badger in front of him and spun to his right to cut down a fox. The roar of the battle raged in his ears until nothing could be heard except his pounding heartbeat. The smell of death and blood assaulted his senses, calling to his beast with tempting allure. Jiyuu grinned, flashing perfect white teeth and proudly displaying four sharp gleaming fangs. “Come to me you filthy bastards! Come and die beneath my claws!” He ran into the thick of the fight and lay waste to all he met.

Miroku was getting worried. He paused to use his staff to knock out a youkai that managed to breech the wall. He then turned back to study the wall at the far left; the only spot not heavily guarded. It was because of the mote, which made access more difficult, but it appeared that the enemy forces had acquired the allegiance of several otter youkai. Their fully transformed, sleek bodies, were gliding through the waters with a soldier perched on each of their back. “Inuyasha...,” he began, but his hanyou friend had already noticed the situation himself.

“I’m on it!” Inuyasha shouted before leaping off to go after the otters. Miroku then turned his full attention on the mass of writhing, slashing, clawing figures below. Blood and gore coated the grounds running rivers of red. Flashes of light signified the use of demonic energies as the vast number of fighting youkai unleashed their individual arsenals on those deemed as enemy. Sango swung to the side and gracefully captured the huge Hiraikotsu, as it returned to her dripping with thick red death. The monk silently sent up a prayer for all the newly freed souls. “May Buddha guide your way.”

“Houshi!” Sango shouted, causing Miroku to act. He looked down to see several youkai attempting to leap the distance to the top of the wall. “Be ready Sango! Here they come!” She smoothly attached her boomerang to its back-strap and then drew her katana. The blade sliced from its sheath and she stood ready.

The first youkai claw bit into the top edge of the massive wall a meter from Sango’s feet. She took off in a run and let her warrior instincts take over. She jumped and spun over, with her feet high in the air, just as she lashed out with her blade. The youkai screamed in pain when the sword cut its arm clean off. Sango landed on both feet in a low crouch and immediately spotted Miroku dealing with another. The monk easily disarmed the surprised demon and sent him hurling back to the ground below.

Sango turned to seek out the third, but saw no sign of it. She looked again and assumed it had retreated to try something else. She looked over the shouting, growling, hordes and was lost in the sea of bodies. From her vantagepoint she couldn’t make out friend from foe, not that the West was actually... friends. The youkai here were more like... acquaintances. They mostly tolerated them just because Sesshomaru ordered them to.

Sesshomaru was covered in blood and gore. It soaked his silk clothing, which was sticking to his lean form. His long white hair was dripping with it and he paused to wipe it from his eyes. All around him was carnage and death, but from what he could tell, the West was winning. He looked up and caught sight of his targets. The Southern Bitch who dared to send her spineless offspring against him. By her side were her two sons and younger daughter. Kiyori looked irritated with the delay as she perched high atop a rocky ledge overseeing the battle.

Her son stepped forward and seemed to look directly at him. Sesshomaru narrowed his golden eyes and a rumble worked its way through his chest. The fool stood untouched by the battle. Completely clean and useless. The grin that spread over the kitsune’s face when he found him caused the taiyoukai to stall his own attack. Something was going on. The fox was smiling as if he were about to defeat the West, but that was clearly not the case.

What came next was enough to send a slight bolt of uncertainty into the inuyoukai lord. A mass of new attackers flooded the plain in large numbers. They were creatures only heard tale of in the old legends of elder youkai. The OujouKawa... Death Fur.

They were short, perhaps less than four feet, but their insubstantial legs moved with indescribable speed. The creatures were covered in thick gray fur. Their arms looked barely long enough to grasp their weapons, which happened to be a rather short staff with semi-circular blades on each end. Their beady red eyes were located above incredibly huge mouths full of sharp teeth. They used their unusually flexible wrists to spin the staff with blinding speed, mowing down anything in their path.

Things had suddenly taken a turn for the worse.

“Wind Scar!” Inuyasha shouted as he sent a blast from Tetsusaiga barreling toward the weasels... no... otters. Yeah, “Damn Otters!” he shouted. Already several youkai had breached the wall. He cut down two but they were scattered and he couldn’t get them all. Behind him a soldier positioned on the wall shot an arrow toward one trespasser and the enemy hit the ground hard from the impact. Inuyasha was pulled away from the image when he was attacked by yet another fucking otter raising up and gnashing a mouth full of sharp teeth. “Fuck YOU, Fish breath!” Inuyasha roared, as he leapt up to strike the rodent across the throat. It screamed in agony and crashed back into the mote with a violent splash. “Where in Hell are these freaks coming from?!”

Miroku watched as Inuyasha took down yet another monstrously huge otter, before turning back to the situation at hand. He struck out, and slashed through a lizard youkai that had scaled the wall with its sticky feet. It fell with a cry of pain and the monk sent up a prayer for its soul.

In one glance Miroku found the battle on the plain taking a frightening turn. It appeared that there was a new type of enemy devastating the Western warriors. The strange fur creatures moved with phenomenal speed and their spinning weapons left carnage behind them. The screams of pain and death were almost too much to take. The advancing enemy was a terrifying sight as they cut down their victims. Miroku muttered, “I pray that Buddha sends us a miracle soon, for we are surely in need.”

Sango heard Miroku’s last prayer to his Buddha, and as soon as she ran the rat youkai that she was fighting through with her sword, she turned to see why he sounded so shaky. On the battlefield there were creatures slaughtering everything in their path. “Dear Kami.... Miroku, wh... what are they?”

“I do not know, my love, but this does not bode well for the Western soldiers. Be on your guard, Sango, for we may be forced to abandon our posts.” Miroku did not even want to think of what would happen to them, or their friends, if those creatures reached the wall.

~~~~****~~~~

“Will you help them?” Thoth asked.

Anubis inhaled deeply and released the breath with slow, and severe, thought. “I will not interfere. This is all predestined. The Fates have woven this event into the fabric of life. The outcome has been decided.”

“The Fates?” Thoth asked.

“Yes. I have seen it in the spirit world. Though I would like nothing more than to spare the two females I love this terror, I will not. There are specific actions that will bring about a reaction, which is ripe to be born.” Anubis looked away from the bloody image in the mirror and focused his blue gaze on Thoth with a grin. “Never fear my friend, for all is not lost.”

~~~~****~~~~

The walls shook around them, sending loose mortar and grit falling on their heads. Kagome protected Sakuma’s body as he knelt between her legs. The force of the Wind Scar could be felt eating up the earth time and time again. She shook the debris from her hair and looked around to make sure everyone was alright.

Rin looked shaken, but more worried for her unborn pup than anything else. The young woman caressed her swollen stomach with a slow circular motion. She nodded to Kagome and the miko gave her a small smile. She turned to Jaken and found the kappa brushing the dust from his clothing and muttering under his breath. “Jaken, call down to Shippo and see if he is okay,” Kagome said as she brushed the dirt from her sons’ back.

Jaken opened the door as the Lady Kagome instructed, but as soon as he did he could hear the sounds of swordplay below. The kitsune called upon his magic and a blast was heard. Jaken listened intently while shivering in his old bones. He hoped the fox had vanquished the enemy. When the strike of metal on metal announced the continuation of the battle, Jaken gulped and promptly shut the door. “My Lady, might I suggest that you and the others take cover behind the table there?”

Kagome felt a bolt of fear creep steadily up her spine. She glanced around at her family and motioned for them to do as Jaken said. Quickly, she grabbed her dagger and bow, then followed behind them. Jaken stood shaking with fear, but bravely in place, while holding the Staff of Two Heads erect in front of him. Kagome had to admire the loyal imp. He would do everything he could to keep them safe even though he was scared to death.

She positioned her bow on her back, and readied her blade. It was too close in here for Kagome to chance a shot with her arrow. Besides, she could easily purify Jaken in the process. She wouldn’t chance it. She smiled down at Sakuma and said, “Be brave my son.”

The door burst open and several large bear youkai pushed through the entrance. Jaken promptly shouted “Feel the wrath of The Staff of Two Heads!” A wall of flame hit the first three hard, and two were burned badly. The sickening smell of singed hair and scorched flesh assaulted their nose while the sounds of snarling pain pierced their ears.

The third, less injured bear, roared his fury and slashed Jaken in half with his sword. The screams of Rin and Sakuma joined the shouting and growling from the badly burned kuma-youkai. Combined, it was almost maddening. Kagome tried to focus on the enemy, and figuring a way to stop them. She found her source and called forth her power. She blasted two of the wounded youkai with a shower of white-hot purification. They disintegrated without making a sound. The third thought to take advantage of the situation, attempting to catch her off guard, but Kebechet cut him down with a whip of her own God-like power.

They kept coming, and the two women kept hitting them with all they had. The castle continued to shake from the power of Tetsusaiga, making it hard to see. Kagome tried to blink the dust from her eyes and strike an enemy, but missed. The miko quickly re-grouped, lashing out with her dagger, and the resulting gash in the rat youkai’s stomach burned with her power. He screamed in agony and Kebechet swiftly ended his life. They both turned to the door, ready to attack the next intruder.

Oddly enough, all was still. Besides the echoing sounds of youkai weapons in the far distance, everything was suddenly very quite. The only sounds came from a sobbing Rin and Kagome’s frightened young pup. “Come on everyone. We have to get out of here. Now that they have found us we are no longer safe here,” Kagome urged. “Where is safe, mother?” Sakuma asked in a small shaky voice. Kagome sighed and placed her hand on his round cheek in comfort. “I’m not sure, my son, but this sure isn’t the place.”

She covered Sakuma’s eyes as they ran passed poor Jaken. Kagome was scared out of her wits to climb down the stairwell. She was not afraid of the enemy. No, Kagome was terrified that something horrible had happened to Shippo. She pushed the others behind her and started their decent. She stopped close to the last turn and sent a look to Kebechet. “Keep your brother here for a moment.” Kebechet understood exactly what her mother feared and pulled Sakuma close to her body.

Kagome stepped slowly around the stone spiral staircase, taking each downward step with a silent prayer. ‘Please Kami, please don’t let him be dead.’ When she took the last step and touched the floor, she began to have a little more hope, because she didn’t see any sign of him. Littered about the floor were numerous dead youkai, many of whom still had Shippo's silver daggers buried in them, but none of them were him. She stepped over two of the bodies, hoping with all her might that none of them were still alive. When she got closer to the corner wall she spotted the toe of a familiar black boot.

“Kami! Shippo!” Kagome breathed in a panic. She ran to his side and dropped to her knees. Kagome reached for his neck and placed her fingertips over his pulse point. She breathed a deep sigh of relief when she found it. It was weak, but thankfully, there. She looked downward, to search for injury, but stopped before she even got started. All around his neck, the skin was damaged, bruised, and red. Someone had tried to strangle him to death!


Kagome bent low and placed her cheek next to his mouth and nose, to feel for his breathing. From so close she could hear a raspy sound, probably from where his windpipe was damaged. The strength of his breath was not normal, but his lungs were still taking in and releasing air. She was pretty sure that he would be fine, given some time to heal and rest. His youkai body should repair the damage within a couple of days.

The problem at the moment was that they could not stand around out here in the open. She had to think of a place to hide and she needed to bring Shippo as well. She couldn’t just leave him there. He wouldn’t be safe. So she tried to think of somewhere they would all be safe until something else could be arranged.

She jumped up when she remembered a small storage room just inside the laundry area. There was a cut-through corridor they could use and be there in no time. Kagome ran back up to where she left the children and grabbed Sakuma’s hand. She motioned for them to be quiet, but follow. They scurried back down to Shippo and Kagome quietly assured them that he was unconscious but going to be okay. She whispered her plan to Kebechet and Rin.

Kebechet grabbed one hand and Kagome grabbed the other and both of them pulled. Kebechet’s strength was much greater than her mother’s, but even Kagome found it easier to lift a heavy load than the average female ningen. Shippo made no movement at all as the two of them dragged him away.

Once inside the laundry hall, Kagome slid the door to the small room open, and Rin ran ahead to move a few things out of the way. They pulled Shippo in and quickly slid the door closed. They had barely got settled when Rin suddenly cried out as if in pain. Kagome turned to her with horror in her eyes and sharply whispered with concern, “Rin! What is the matter? Are you going into labor?!” She hoped and prayed that this ordeal had not cost Rin her baby, because it was too soon for it to be born and live.

Rin leaned forward, whimpering pitifully, but instead of grabbing her stomach as Kagome expected her to do, the young woman grabbed her neck. Kagome’s brow furrowed in confusion and she grabbed Rin’s free hand, patting it gently. “Please Rin, you have to tell us what’s wrong with you.”

“Jiyuu....,” she groaned with morbid despair. Streams of hot tears poured down her smooth cheeks.

“Dear God...,” Kagome said, and squeezed Rin’s hand in a comforting gesture. “Is he... is...” She could not bring herself to ask. Rin looked as if she were in terrible suffering emotionally. It tore her heart apart, thinking that the handsome young inu could be dead. He and Rin were so in love, and they had a new baby on the way.

“I... don’t know! I can’t tell, Kagome. I can’t tell if he’s dead... or just badly wounded!” Rin wailed before grasping her head between her arms and sobbing.

Kebechet watched Rin suffer from the bond of the mating mark. It gave her and Jiyuu a connection, which could be affected by any extreme emotion or sensation, such as elation or extreme pain. It also alerted the surviving mate of the others death. If Jiyuu were still alive, he must be very badly injured for the mark to feel so close to deathlike.

The princess felt as if a weight of stone had been placed upon her chest. Rin loved Jiyuu so very much! They were so good together and he loved Rin deeply. It was so unfair!

An idea formed in Kebechet’s head. If she could get to Jiyuu, she could try to help him. Maybe she could even heal the wound somewhat, giving him a chance to live! She had tried healing before, and found that she did inherit some of her mother’s miko abilities. Once, she tested them on her brother, when he fell and cut his shin. It didn’t heal completely, but it stopped most of the bleeding. She had to try! For Rin, for Jiyuu, and for their unborn child, she had to try!

Before Kagome could stop her, Kebechet was on her feet and running. She slipped out the door swiftly, as her mother reached out to try and stop her. “I have to go mother! Trust me!” She called behind her, but never looked back. She knew her mother would still try to stop her so she just ran.

Kagome fell to her knees and cried. Her only daughter was running out into the middle of a war! She couldn’t leave her helpless son, Shippo and Rin to go after her! Sakuma then knelt beside her and wrapped his tiny arms around her shoulder. In a soft voice her whispered, “Do not worry mother. Father will watch over her.” Kagome tried to hide her tears, not wishing to cause more stress to her son. His sweet confidence in his great father was heartwarming, but did little to ease Kagome’s fear for Kebechet.

Her mate was fighting, and there was no telling where he was. She had been forced to suppress the surge of excitement pulsing from her mating mark since the battle had begun. It was a little unnerving to feel how much her mate was enjoying himself in battle. Kagome just hoped that where ever Sesshomaru was, that he would see Kebechet and keep her safe.

Kebechet ran. Long billowing waves of delicate white linen flowed out behind her to mix and mingle with the high-set ponytail of long pearly-white hair. Her soft lovely features were set in concern and concentration as she made her way out of the castle and into the courtyard. The sounds of the ongoing battle were much clearer now and she felt a fresh stab of fear. She knew this was a stupid thing to do, but she just could not sit by and let Jiyuu die when she could possibly save him.

At the gate she spotted about a dozen Western soldiers shooting arrows and fighting against the enemy trying to breach the wall. To her left there were small groups of youkai in the far courtyard and gardens, battling fiercely. Apparently the wall was only keeping the masses from breaking in.

She quickly decided to try for a less populated area, and maybe none of her father’s men would see her and try to stop her. Spotting a short stretch that began just before the mote she took off for it. Her slender body sliced through the wind as her long legs raced to save her friend. Kebechet was within distance of the wall and readied herself to make the jump. It was high, but she knew she could make it. With a push of strength, she was airborne.

The breath was nearly knocked from her body when something slammed into her! She fell hard, on whomever it was that attacked her, but their strong arms still held her tight. A moment of panic set in just before a very familiar voice yelled, “You stupid kid! What the hell do you think you’re doing?! Where the fuck is Kagome?”

“Uncle Inyasha!” Kebechet cried, while trying to push up and away. He sat up, but refused to release her. She shook her shoulders in frustration, but he wouldn’t budge. “Please! You have to let me go! I have to find Jiyuu, he’s been gravely injured!”

“Jiyuu?! Where’s your mother?” Inuyasha growled.

“Mother is fine. She’s with Rin, Sakuma, and Shippo,” Kebechet replied in a hurry. Inuyasha growled again, now wondering what the hell Shippo was thinking by letting Kebechet run out here to get herself killed. He stood up and pulled her up as well. He was about to ask about Shippo’s idiocy, when his niece audibly gasped.

When she stood up Kebechet could see everything. The war was made very, very real. The plains below were literally covered in the bodies of wounded and corpses. The living were fighting with the rage of any bloodthirsty youkai warrior. There were also odd creatures hacking down soldiers, youkai, of her father’s army. Youkai that she saw and knew and that had family and friends. The pain and hard driving force of death slammed into her like a solid thing. She buckled over and cried out. It was worse than horrible!

After she fell to her knees, Inuyasha grabbed the girl and wrapped his arm around her protectively. She acted like something had stabbed her in the belly, but he could see nothing there. She was shaking uncontrollably and her skin was growing hot to the touch. An unnatural wind picked up and tossed his silver hair about. Suddenly Kebechet threw her head back and screamed.

Inuyasha began to panic. He had no idea what was wrong with her. He looked over toward Miroku, who had just ran up beside them. “Miroku! Something’s wrong!” Miroku reached out to touch the girls’ forehead, but flinched and snatched his hand back. “She’s burning up!” Miroku said with obvious worry.

The monk turned back to look at her and creased his brow in wonder. Streams of tears trailed down her lovely, upturned face, and Miroku had to admit that she was the most beautiful thing that he had ever seen. She looked unreal in her ethereal splendor.

Beautiful... but deadly.

Her face abruptly began to change. The smooth skin of the demi-goddess, Kebechet, suddenly developed an oddly raised texture. Her gently closed eyelids, sporting long dark lashes, instantly flew wide open. Miroku gasped in shock when he found that her normally crystal blue eyes had changed to a bright red, which oddly matched the unusual curvy marking over her left eye. A wave of power pulsed from her body and it felt as if it had touched his very soul. “Inuyasha! She’s changing! Changing into her true form!”

Inuyasha cursed and let her go to step quickly away. He grabbed Miroku and pulled him back as well. “Damn if this isn’t the worst fucking timing for this shit!” He snarled, but the monk could hear the worry underlying the hanyou’s frustration.

Sango had lost count of how many times she had caught her Hiraikotsu. When the huge bone weapon came back this time her arm shook from the strain to stop its path. As much as she hated to admit it, her age was catching up with her. The battle had been raging for hours, and her mortal body was wearing down fast.

The sound of a female screaming alarmed her, and the taijiya turned to the source. Her heart stilled at the sight of Kebechet kneeling near Inuyasha and Miroku. Even from where she stood she could see the changes taking place. Kebechet’s eyes were burning red while her hair and clothing danced around her. A snarling Kirara took up Sango’s position when she ran to Miroku with worry etched over her face.

Sesshomaru slashed and ducked the swing of a huge ax, before turning completely around and slicing the demons head from his shoulders. He was almost there now. He could nearly taste the blood of Kiyori and her brood. They would pay dearly for this day. He would send these fools straight to hell!

The taiyoukai fought on, ignoring the new gaping wound in his back, paying no attention to the gash in his upper thigh, while somewhat angered about the cut on his cheek. The screams of his soldiers and their enemy had temporarily deafened him, but he paid this no heed. For the third time he was charged by one of the cursed OujouKawa, spinning its deadly blades, seeking his life. Though these creatures were fast, they were no match for Sesshomaru’s superior speed, and he dodged the beast while maneuvering into position to kill it. Suddenly he was hit with a powerful sensation; a wave of immense power pulsed against his flesh. Power that was very... familiar.

He found it hard to ignore, knowing that something was effecting his daughter in such a way, but he managed to focus on the immediate threat before him. “Dakkasou!” He hissed, a second before spraying his opponent with acidic poison from his claws. The creature did not even have a chance to scream before it began melting away. The demon lord stopped his mad fight to reach the Southern filth that sullied his lands, and turned back toward the castle.

With his exceptional eyesight he spotted what he was searching for. Kebechet, standing atop the wall! Beside her stood Inuyasha, the monk and slayer. He was stunned at the sight that met him. She looked as if she were in pain. Sesshomaru was suddenly stricken with the hated feeling of fear. Something terrible was happing to his child!


Kebechet suddenly stood straight and reached her arms out and up toward the sky. A strange spiral of white began to circle her body from the ground at her feet. It wound its way up her body until she was completely cloaked from sight. The mass of thick turbulent fog encased her, as it grew larger.

In an instant the large expanse of swirling clouds seemed to implode revealing the true form of the young goddess.

A huge, magnificent white cobra stood in a threatened position, while flaring its brilliant hood. The crimson eyes glared down over the destruction below, and the transformed Kebechet was overwhelmed with the need to clean the corruption from her lands.

Sesshomaru stood in awe, as did every being around him. His daughter was spectacular. While he had to admit he felt a little regret that she had not taken the inu form of he and Anubis, he could not argue her splendor. It was unlike anything he had ever seen. The raised portion of her long shinning body stood three times his height while swaying in a deadly dance.

He could literally feel his flesh crawling from the static power snapping in the air. Something was about to happen. Something horrifying as much as it was amazing.

Kebechet opened her mouth, exposing a set of extremely long, lethal fangs... and hissed.

From her mouth came soft tendrils of white glowing fog. It moved slowly, with no need to rush in its deadly deed. The fog grew thicker, as all present stood frozen, watching the spectacle as if in a trance. The creeping wisps of white curled and wound their way through the lands. No one knew what to expect from this at all. Fear became the prominent scent amongst the blood and gore, as those who were foe to the West saw death in their eyes. The Fog of Purification covered everyone and everything, until nothing could be seen except a thick cloud of white.

Then the screaming began.

All around him he could sense the cold fingers of death, but simultaneously Sesshomaru felt soothed by the wispy tendrils of eerie white that wound their way around his blood covered body. The pain from his wounds seemed to dissolve with the ghostly touch, and the demon lord looked down in surprise. His demonic red eyes flashed to gold and he opened them wide when he found his blood soaked clothing once more a pristine white.

The last scream of agony echoed amidst the heavy, unnatural fog. Complete silence now dwarfed the slightest sound. Sesshomaru stood in place, wondering at the extent of his daughter’s wrath, until suddenly the sound of whistling wind began. With the new sound lapping against his sensitive ears, he noticed the creeping fog begin to retreat from whenst it came. Thinner and thinner, it withdrew until he could once more make out the forms of other youkai on the plains.

None were left alive, save the soldiers of the West. Even the Southern lords and ladies had fallen victim to deaths call, but no bodies littered the ground. With further inspection, he found that all his wounded men were standing whole and healed, while the dead were nowhere to be seen. All traces of blood, gore and death were gone, as if the cleansing hand of Kami had washed it all away.

Kebechet’s eyes rolled back into her head as her vipers mouth inhaled her purifying justice. Her long lithe tail slithered to and fro as she consumed the power of the Gods. When the last curl of righteousness was absorbed back safely inside her form, she was once more encapsulated in a cocoon of white twisting clouds.

In a flash of light, Kebechet stood once more in her human form.

~~~~****~~~~

A/N: Okay... After 8,653 words I’m ending this chapter. I hope that you are all pleased with the battle as well as the outcome! If you are wondering why I chose for Kebechet’s true form to be a snake, it is because that is the true form of the ancient Egyptian Goddess of freshness and purification, Kebechet, the daughter of Anubis. You can read more at http://www.thekeep.org/~kunoichi/kunoichi/themestream/anubis.html. Don’t forget to review and let me know what you think. I’m going to try to end the story with the next chapter, and tie up the loose ends. I just hope I can fit it all in! lol! You know how long-winded I am.

A/N 2: Just a heads up on one other thing that I’ve been working on.... You can findAnimal Attractions by LadiesInWaiting on AdultFanfiction.net, as well as FF.net and A Single Spark. This is a fun Kag/Sess alternate reality story written by KogasAngel and myself. Be sure to check it out for a sexy and snappy good time!

I also wanted to invite any of my lemon reader’s to visit The House of Lemons, a compilation of highly erotic, and sometimes freaky (You gotta love the darkness of SilentDeath), Inuyasha one-shots that are written by myself and SilentDeath. The pairings are random. Don’t worry, there are many Sess/Kag shots! But you’ll also find Inu/Kag, Mir/San, Anubis/Kagome/Sess, as well as others. Our pen name is TheHentaiHarlots and the one-shots are located on AdultFanfiction.net. Here is the link: http://www.adult-fanfiction.org/aff/story.php?no=544201670. If you can’t log on to that site for restriction reasons, you have my apology, but I can’t help you. If you can, you might want to go ahead and start that cold shower, because you are gonna need it! Haha!