Crossover Fan Fiction / InuYasha Fan Fiction ❯ The Journey to the City of Endless Night ❯ Chapter Forty-One ( Chapter 41 )

Chapter Forty-One

Kagome bent over, picking up her bag from the corner. She squealed and giggled when she felt Inuyasha's arms go around her waist and her feet lift off the floor. Kagome dropped the bag with a thud. He set her back down and Kagome leaned her head back onto his shoulder. She still wore his haori and Inuyasha slipped a callused hand inside, gently rubbing one of her breasts, his claw brushing against a nipple. She moaned softly, closing her eyes. Inuyasha whispered in her ear, “You know, that looks better on you than it does me.”

“Hentai. We have to get ready to go.” She turned in his arms, giving him a kiss. “Let's get dressed and packed.” Kagome laughed when she saw his lip stick out in a pout and his eyes become pleading. “Inuyasha, don't put on the puppy face. We have to go. There's a shard, remember?”

“Feh.” His tone sounded dejected. Inuyasha pulled her closer. He ran a hand over her hair, simply holding her. Inuyasha's nose nuzzled into her hair and a soft rumble escaped his throat. It made her think of the terrible ordeal they had both endured during the night. Inuyasha had looked so lost. She had been so frightened for him when he had snapped and tried to kill her. It hadn't been her hanyou, her dog boy. It had been someone else and she hadn't known what to do. After it had been over and she had woken to hear his sobs, her heart had ached. All she had wanted was for his hurt to go away. Kagome had been so frightened that she might lose Inuyasha to the despair that threatened to consume him. She took a deep breath against his bare shoulder, relishing in the feel of his solid body against hers. Inuyasha let go and sighed. He whispered,“Alright, wench. We better get packing.” He let his voice take on a throaty tone as he leaned closer to her ear, “You still owe me for the shoes.”

“I know, I know.” She kissed him on the nose. Kagome undid the strings to his haori and slid it off her shoulders. She handed it to him and Inuyasha stood, staring at her, as he clutched the red garment tightly in his clawed hands. Kagome felt a slight blush cross her cheeks before she grabbed fresh underwear and a bra, putting them on.

“Oi, wench.” Inuyasha shrugged into his undershirt and haori, tying the garment closed. She couldn't help but notice the blush painting his cheeks as well. As brash as he had been moments ago, the modest boyishness that crossed his features made her smile. He kept his eyes on hers, the golden depths swirling with desire. “You going to get into your dress or do you intend on walking around in those white things of yours all day?” His mouth upturned in a sly smile.

Kagome blushed before she picked up the gray travel dress. She stepped into it, pulling it up and slipped her arms into the sleeves. “There, the show is over, dog boy.” She started to tie the strings when Inuyasha slapped her fingers away and he tied the bodice shut with his clawed fingers. He tied it slowly, his eyes looking down at her as his hands worked. She couldn't see his expression as his bangs hid his eyes from her. His hands lingered a moment over the strings he had just knotted closed before dropping to his sides. One hand went to her chin, upturning her face towards his.

Inuyasha leaned in, kissing her. Her mouth opened in surprise and Inuyasha pushed his tongue in, tangling it with her own. When he broke it off, he rested his forehead on hers. “Remember, you still owe me, wench. I'll be collecting on it later.” He took her hand into his, intertwining their fingers. Inuyasha kissed her again before moving to her throat, gently lapping at her mark.

Kagome closed her eyes and tilted her head back providing him with more access. She panted, “We have to go.”

Inuyasha's lips pouted against her jawline and he lifted his head up. He drooped his ears and made his eyes beg. He let go of her hand and turned to pick up Tetsusaiga from the wall. Inuyasha slipped it back at his waist, making sure that it was secure. When he looked back at her, Kagome felt anguish at his gaze. His gold eyes were fixed on her throat and had filled with a piercing despair. He turned away, his shoulders slumped and Kagome stepped closer to him, taking a hand into hers. He said, his voice sullen, “Let's go, Kagome.”

Kagome nodded. She said, “Just one more minute, okay?” She squeezed his hand gently, trying to reassure him. She knew that Inuyasha still struggled to forgive himself for what had happened and she wasn't about to let him sink further into melancholy. It had been awful enough to wake to hear his agonized cries and his despondent voice beg for death. She flashed him a demure smile and pulled the yellow scarf that Sesshomaru had given her at the dance. Kagome tied it around her throat. “There. Good thing I forgot to give this back to your brother.”

Inuyasha looked towards her, scuffing his foot onto the floor. He sighed, taking her hand into his own. He gave her a small, timid smile. Leaning in, Inuyasha was about to kiss her when a soft knock came to the door. He pulled away, blushing. Inuyasha crossed the room and opened the door, finding Shippo on the other side. “Oi, what you doing here, brat? Aren't you supposed to be with Sango and Miroku?”

Shippo smiled brightly. “I just woke up. That tonic that Lady Polgara gave me really worked. I haven't slept better in ages.” He ran past Inuyasha and flew into Kagome's arms, giving her a big hug. “I was told to come get you two so we can go.”

Kagome saw Inuyasha clench his hand into a fist, advancing on the kit. “Bad timing, whelp.”

Shippo crawled up into her arms, hugging her around her tender throat. Kagome let a sharp hiss escape from the pain of the tiny fox child clutching around her neck. She gently eased him away from her but not without noticing the defeated look in Inuyasha's eyes as his shoulders slumped and his ears flattened. She said, “It's okay, Shippo. We're on our way. We were just making sure everything was all packed when you came.” She flashed a smile in Inuyasha's direction, trying to reassure him.

Shippo asked, “Are you alright, Kagome?”

“I'm fine, Shippo. We should probably get going since everyone is waiting for us, don't you think?” She held the small kit against her chest, hugging him.

“Why are you wearing that scarf?” Shippo's green eyes looked up towards her with curiosity. “I thought that Inuyasha would want---”

Inuyasha yanked Shippo from Kagome's arms. He held him by the tail in front of his face. “Shut it, runt. It's none of your business why Kagome wears anything she's wearing. Keep your nose out of it.” He set the child roughly on his bottom before turning away, crossing his arms. Kagome knew he was putting on a brave face and hiding his inner anguish behind a gruff tone.

Shippo stood, rubbing his rear. “That hurt. Did you have to be so mean?”

Inuyasha didn't turn to strike him. He stood, looking down at the floor, ears pinned to his head and his shoulders down. His voice became surly as he said, “Well, are we going to go or are we moving in? Let's get a move on, wench. We don't have all day. I'm not going to wait for the shard to come to us.”

Kagome sighed. She was afraid that all the progress she had made with him earlier that morning might have been lost. She slung her backpack onto her shoulder, taking his hand into hers. “Okay. Let's go.” She smiled at him as he wordlessly took her bag from her, putting it onto his shoulder. Inuyasha gave her a small squeeze and Kagome felt in a small way encouraged.

As they exited into the morning air, Shippo ran ahead. He said, “They're here.”

Kagome leaned her head onto Inuyasha's shoulder, smiling. It would be nice to leave this inn behind and put what had happened within its walls in the past. He eased his arm around her waist as they made their way to the horses. Inuyasha stopped in front of hers before setting the bag onto the ground. Kagome reached up, placing a hand onto his cheek. Inuyasha placed his hand on hers and stared into her eyes. She noticed the fragility in the golden depths and it tugged at her. Kagome rose up on her tip toes, kissing him. She whispered, “You promised me, remember.”

Inuyasha nodded. “Oi, wench, not in front of everyone.” His voice was rough, trying to cover up the thick emotion.

Kagome gripped his hand into hers. “Can you hand me my bow and quiver? I think I might need it today.”

Inuyasha nodded, pulling both items from her belongings. He handed them to her and Kagome eased the strap of her quiver around her chest and the bow into one of the pack spots on the rump of her horse. Once both items were ready, Inuyasha hoisted her up onto her horse and held her waist as she steadied herself. “You let me know as soon as we get close to that shard, alright?”

“You got it, dog boy.” Kagome smiled wide at him, reaching down to rub an ear.

Inuyasha flicked it away from her touch. A tiny smile graced his face and Kagome felt that perhaps he'd recover from the brutal mind trick that Naraku had inflicted on him. It angered her that Inuyasha had been tormented so, but her priority was now to reverse the damage and heal his pain. It would do no good for her to become angry over it. She pulled her hand back, placing her hands on the reigns. He said softly, “I'm going to go talk to Sesshomaru a moment. He'll want Rin to ride with you.”

“Okay.” She watched as he walked away, her bag slung over his shoulder and he stopped to tether it to a pack horse. His shoulders weren't nearly as slumped and his ears weren't nearly as down. It was a good sign. After all, it had been awhile since they had had any leads on a shard. Perhaps a good fight would brighten his mood.

She was distracted from watching her hanyou when Shippo jumped up, sitting in front of her on the horse. Shippo asked, “Kagome, is Inuyasha alright?”

“He'll be fine.” Kagome smiled brightly at Shippo. “Don't you worry about him. Inuyasha's strong, remember?” She ruffled his hair. The kit didn't need to know what had happened to Inuyasha or the awful pain he was feeling because of it. If he hadn't heard what had happened, she wasn't going to tell him. “Shouldn't you be riding with Sango or Miroku?” She tried to look stern. “You know, Rin will ride with me.”

Shippo crossed his arms, pouting. She laughed as he reminded her so much of Inuyasha. “Aw, why does she always get to ride with you? Why can't I ride with you?”

Kagome shook her head. “Sesshomaru just wants to keep Rin safe, that's all. He can't do that if she's riding with him.”

Shippo snorted, glaring up at her. He said, “Feh.”

Kagome laughed. “You've been with Inuyasha for far too long.” She hugged him. “I promise to spend some time with you later, okay? We'll do anything you like.”

“Anything?” Shippo's green eyes became hopeful.

“Anything. Now go ride with someone else before Inuyasha gets back and has to put Rin up on my horse, okay?” Kagome smiled at him.

He smiled back. “Okay, Kagome. Do you still have any candy left?”

“You bet. Now shoo.” She patted him on the shoulder.

Shippo jumped down, running towards Sango. He jumped up, resting on a shoulder. Kagome watched him, shaking her head. She knew she had been neglecting the young kit since they had all been reunited but it seemed like so many events had happened so quickly that she hadn't had the time. She turned her eyes forward again, seeing the others preparing for the ride ahead. Polgara's gaze caught hers and the sorceress smiled in her direction.

The woman turned her horse, joining her. “How are you feeling, Kagome?”

“Better.” She glanced down at her horse's mane. “I wish I could say the same for Inuyasha.”

“It'll take time, dear. I'm sure you can bring him out of it.” The sorceress pulled her cloak tighter around her tall frame. “Before Rin gets here, can I ask you what is going on? Your two friends have mentioned shards. Does it have anything to do with that jewel?”

“Oh, that. Yes. I felt a Shikon shard on the move to the east of us. It's about a half day away and we're going to end up having to retrieve it one way or another.” Kagome sighed. “It's been awhile since we've heard anything about them after all.” She fingered the bottle at her neck. It puzzled her as to why the old man and sorceress hadn't pursued anything about the revelation in the grove about her era. Kagome was thankful for their backing off as she knew Inuyasha didn't need any extra pressures added. She knew that she would have to answer their questions soon, but hopefully not now.

“I see.” Polgara's expression was unreadable. Her penetrating gray eyes cast about the group. “It'll be a long ride today.” The sorceress seemed apprehensive before smiling wide at her. “I'm sure everything will work out in the end, dear. Don't worry so much.” She turned her horse. “I'm going to go speak with the Old Wolf a moment.”

Kagome nodded, a tentative smile on her lips. She saw Inuyasha standing by Sesshomaru's horse as the two brothers talked quietly. Sesshomaru stood stiff and unmoved as the two talked while Inuyasha paced and gestured wildly. He seemed full of pent up anxiety and energy. She shook her head. It amazed her sometimes that they could be considered brothers at all, the way they were so drastically different in personality. She saw Rin peek around Sesshomaru's elbow, awaiting her lord's order to go with Inuyasha. As she watched, Kagome wondered what exactly was passing between the two of them.

Ce'Nedra broke her concentration. The tiny queen said, “Good morning, Kagome. Is everything alright?”

“Good morning, Ce'Nedra. Yeah, I'm alright, just impatient to go, I guess.” Kagome looked over towards her.

The little red-head looked somber which made her look as if she was pouting. The little queen tensed up. “Those, those Grolims just make me so angry. They go after Garion and then Inuyasha and they just don't care who they hurt.” Her emerald eyes became like hard agates. “I'm sorry they did that to Inuyasha. It wasn't fair.”

Kagome nodded. She didn't want to become angry or let it show. She feared it might upset Inuyasha and he was already fragile as it was. She didn't want to chance making matters worse by raging, or worse, crying as she wanted to do. It had cut deep into her to see Inuyasha so battered and broken as he rested against Sesshomaru. Everything in her had wanted to scream and wail with him and yet she knew that would have only made matters worse. Kagome knew it hurt Inuyasha to see her cry. It was bad enough she had the bruises and small cuts from his claws on her throat to remind him of what had happened while the Grolims had been controlling him. She reached up, rubbing the scarf that she wore to cover them up. She winced slightly, the pressure making some of her bruises ache.

Ce'Nedra said, “I think I'm going to go check on Garion and make sure he's alright. I'll be back soon, alright?”

Sango looked over at them, Shippo one one shoulder, Kirara on the other. She let a small smile cross her features before turning her horse to join them. She said, “Shippo insisted we ride with you.”

Kagome shook her head. “That's just fine with me, Sango-chan. I like the company.”

She looked back towards Inuyasha again, noticing that Rin now held his hand. The two brothers still spoke and the longer Inuyasha stood waiting, the more he seemed to be agitated. She sighed, hoping that it wouldn't break down into a heated argument between them. She knew that things had been tense during the night, although she didn't know everything that had transpired. Sesshomaru's expression was becoming indifferent, an indication that he was becoming irritated. It made her wonder what they could possibly be discussing.

Sango followed her line of sight. “It seems some things don't change, huh?”

Kagome nodded. “It would seem so. As long as they don't start fighting I'm alright with it.”

Sango said, “That's a nice scarf you're wearing, Kagome.”

Shippo interrupted before Kagome could respond, “Inuyasha doesn't want anyone to talk about that scarf.” He looked up towards the slayer and then rested his green eyes on Kagome. They were serious and mildly confused. “I don't know why he wants her to wear it. It covers his mark up.”

Kagome blushed at the young kit's words. She noticed that Sango's eyebrow had arched. The slayer had seen the bruises on her neck and had probably suspected that Inuyasha had been the root cause of them. Kagome replied, her voice flustered, “It's no big deal. I thought it'd be nice to wear a nice scarf today, that's all. Why let it go to waste?”

Sango nodded her head, her brown eyes dubious as she glanced over towards her friend. She asked, “Where did you get it? I don't remember you having it before.”

Kagome blushed even further. She said, “Sesshomaru gave it to me, actually. I don't know what the big deal is. It's just a scarf.”

Sango's eyes went wide. “Sesshomaru gave it to you?” Kagome couldn't help but catch the hint of astonishment in her friend's voice.

She knew that both Miroku and Sango were still struggling to adjust to the presence of the stoic Demon Lord. At this point, and after the near two months it had taken them to travel this far, Kagome felt as safe with Sesshomaru as she did with Inuyasha. She knew it would take time for her friends to realize that underneath all of his stoic mannerisms and cold shell that he was actually quite compassionate and considerate. Kagome nodded, “Yeah. He did, at that dance, after I got attacked.”

Shippo's green eyes went wide and his mouth opened in surprise. He sputtered, “Inuyasha doesn't mind you wearing that scarf? It smells of Sesshomaru.”

Kagome shook her head. “No, he doesn't mind. Can we talk about something else?”

Sango sighed. “Alright, Kagome.” She looked forward, a small frown on her face. She seemed lost in thought as if something was bothering her.

“Something wrong, Sango-chan?” Kagome asked, worry evident in her voice.

Sango didn't answer at first before she looked over, giving a small smile. “No, just thinking about the battle coming up.”

“I understand. I'm nervous myself. It's been too long since we've had to gather a shard, hasn't it?” Kagome adjusted her quiver on her back. She glanced over towards Inuyasha again, noticing that he was making his way back towards her, Rin holding onto his hand. He looked pensive, his gold eyes cast up towards the sky as he walked. Inuyasha looked towards her and the strange mix of desire and melancholy churning in his eyes pulled at her. He was stopped by Garion and the two stood talking. Hopefully soon he'd place Rin with her in the saddle and they would make their way from this wretched inn, leaving these awful memories behind.

Inuyasha paced by his brother as the group prepared for the trek away from the inn. He felt pent up energy well up inside him at the prospect of hunting a shard and anxiety at the thought of putting his mate into danger. He crossed and uncrossed his arms several times as he looked up towards the sky. They would most likely come across who ever held this shard by nightfall and that would mean he would have to battle them. All he wanted to do was be with Kagome and not on a horse. The monk and then the kit had gotten in his way and he sighed. His brother's voice broke into his racing thoughts, “Half-breed, stop this incessant pacing.”

Inuyasha turned, glaring at him. He muttered to himself, “Stupid monk and stupid whelp.” He clenched his hands into fists, resuming his pacing. As much as he knew they had to track the shard, Inuyasha would have much preferred to spending the rest of the day alone with his mate. He had to make it up to her for what had happened during the night. Scuffing a clawed toe into the ground, he growled. “I'd like throttle the two of them.”

Sesshomaru's brow arched. A slight smirk tinged his lips. “So the monk did not keep his word to this Sesshomaru.” His soft voice held a hint of amusement.

Inuyasha stopped, waving his arms in his brother's face. “No shit. I could have told you what he would have done the moment you turned your back. He's a lecher! Just ask Sango. You can't trust him.” He crossed his arms, tilting his chin up in arrogance. “And they say I'm the gullible one in the family.”

Sesshomaru's smile became a tight line. “I suggest, half-breed, you keep such comments to yourself.”

“Feh. Make me.” As much as he wanted to make it up to Kagome for what he had done during the night, his blood was itching to fight. Inuyasha flattened his ears to his head, a hand on Tetsusaiga's hilt. It was mostly out of habit; he had no intention of drawing the great fang. He glared at his brother, narrowing his eyes menacingly. As quickly as his temper flared, it waned and Inuyasha dropped his hand to his side, ears drooped. He didn't need to take his anxiety and self-contempt out on Sesshomaru. Inuyasha muttered softly, “Forget it.”

Sesshomaru stood impassive, his gold eyes almost bored. He kept a grip on Rin's hand. The little girl kept her eyes on the ground and her head rested on Sesshomaru's elbow. His quiet voice remarked, “Do not dwell on what has happened, little brother. Did your mate not mention that a shard of that accursed jewel is near?”

Inuyasha snorted. '”Yeah, what of it?” He was trying to keep the upcoming battle from his mind. He really didn't want to place Kagome into any more danger and Inuyasha knew that the closer they got to who or what possessed the jewel fragment the more likely it would become unavoidable. Besides, he had other things he would rather be doing with his mate; he had a lot to atone for, after all, and Inuyasha wanted nothing more than to follow through on his plans. This jewel shard was just in the way.

“You intend to retrieve it.” It wasn't a question and Sesshomaru's eyes became piercing.

“Feh. Like I have a choice. Naraku already has plenty of shards and the more he has the more trouble he is. Relieving him of one more shard will do the world a lot of good.” Inuyasha interlocked his fingers and cracked his knuckles as he stretched. He resumed pacing, swinging his arms as he clenched and unclenched his hands into fists. Inuyasha threw his hands up in the air and muttered, “Besides, I'm bored. Didn't we go on this trip to see some demons, anyways? Well where are they?”

Sesshomaru's mouth drew into a tight line as his expression became indifferent. Inuyasha knew he was irritating his brother, but the energy building inside him was hard enough to contain. Sesshomaru gently pushed Rin in his direction. “If we are to find the possessor of this shard you best take Rin to your mate.” Rin looked up, her brown eyes pleading with his brother. Sesshomaru remained firm and said, “Go with Inuyasha. You are to ride with Kagome.” The little girl reluctantly let her lord's hand go, joining Inuyasha.

Inuyasha let Rin take his hand. He sighed. Glancing over his shoulder, he saw Kagome idly chatting with the little red-head. Even though she wore the yellow scarf around her neck, he could still see in his mind the awful bruises he had inflicted on her. Why hadn't he resisted enough not to hurt her? Inuyasha shuddered. He thought of the awful images that had plagued his mind. Inuyasha had felt as if he been first awoken from the tree and this time there hadn't been any sit command to stop him from killing. All Inuyasha had seen was the woman who had betrayed him and sealed him to a tree for fifty years.

He felt a slight twinge of guilt at wanting to kill Kikyo, as well. As he rested his eyes on Kagome, he couldn't see how he could have ever confused the two women. They were so different. Kagome's eyes always held acceptance and Kikyo's had always held mistrust. Inuyasha realized this as he thought about things. It amazed him that it had taken this long for him to comprehend this. Inuyasha still felt guilt for allowing Naraku to deceive him and Kikyo so expertly, yet it pierced deeper inside him that he had allowed these Grolims to use him to nearly kill his mate. He should have done something to stop it, to resist. He closed his eyes and tried to calm himself.

Sesshomaru brought him out of his dark thoughts. “I see Kagome has put my scarf to use.”

“Yeah.” He kept his eyes averted from his brother. Trying to hide his interior feelings, Inuyasha gruffly said, “I'm going to get Rin to Kagome so we can get going. That shard isn't going to come to us after all. I'm so sick of sitting around.”

Sesshomaru's reply was a snort before he mounted his horse carefully. As soon as he was adjusted, he looked down at Inuyasha. “Tell the monk that I will wish to speak with him at a later time.”

Inuyasha smirked up at Sesshomaru. “I already took care of him and Sango's going to doubly take care of him, but I'll tell Miroku none the less. That lecher needs some excitement once in awhile. Maybe it'll teach him not to listen at my door.” Turning, Inuyasha led Rin towards Kagome's horse. The little girl gripped his hand tight. She glanced over her shoulder, forlornly looking back towards Sesshomaru. Inuyasha sighed. “Oi, don't be sad, pup. You'll get to see him later.”

Rin had been oddly silent throughout their discussion. She kept her eyes cast down to the ground. A small frown was on her face as she followed Inuyasha through the horses. As anxious as Inuyasha was about the up coming confrontation, Rin seemed just as apprehensive if not more. He wondered what could be going on with the little girl. It was as if she was preparing inwardly for some type of event. She stumbled and Inuyasha gripped her around the waist, steadying her. “What's bothering you, Rin?”

Rin kept her eyes down. “Nothing, Inuyasha-sama.” Her voice lacked its normal cheer and Inuyasha worried that something was wrong with her. She looked up giving him a tiny smile.

Inuyasha furrowed his brows in concern. The little girl obviously was unwilling to talk about what ever was bothering her. Her distress at leaving Sesshomaru's side indicated to Inuyasha that she was anxious about something. Rin often looked saddened at having to leave his brother's side, but this morning seemed different, as if she was wound up just as much as he himself was. “Alright, pup. We'll get you to Kagome.” Looking up, his eyes connected with Kagome's and he felt guilt twist in his heart. It pained him to know how close he had come to killing her. Inuyasha tried to communicate to her with his eyes just how sorry he was. Her eyes were pained although a small smile crossed her lips.

Garion drew his attention. “Good morning, Inuyasha.” He looked tired but wary. His voice sounded worn out and weary.

Inuyasha nodded. “Feh.”

“I hear we're going to come across someone with one of those jewel shards soon.” The blond man smiled weakly.

“Yeah, that's what Kagome says.” He glanced towards her briefly but her back was turned as they were preparing to leave.

Garion drew his great blade from behind his shoulders. “Draw your sword.”

“Why?” He wondered what could be going through the mind of his friend. Were the Grolims doing something with his mind, too? He rested his hand on his hilt. Inuyasha hoped that it wasn't the case. His shoulders tensed and he felt Rin scramble behind him.

Garion laughed quietly. “It's nothing like that. I want to cross swords for good luck.”

Inuyasha shrugged. “I guess it couldn't hurt.” He pulled Tetsusaiga from its sheath, transforming the rusty blade into the massive fang. Inuyasha noticed that Garion's sword went from looking like an enormous ordinary sword to igniting with the blue fire. It was brilliant and flared around the great sword as if alive. As Garion's sword touched Tetsusaiga's blade, Inuyasha felt as if the hilt was burning his palm and he nearly dropped his sword. His eyes went wide as he noticed that the fur around the hilt tinged blue. The Wind Scar circling the blade flared and became a brilliant azure. Garion pulled his sword back and Inuyasha held up Tetsusaiga, looking at it. “Did you do that?”

Garion shook his head. “No. The Orb did. It seems to like you.” He smiled. “I guess that's a good thing.”

Inuyasha swung Tetsusaiga slightly, noticing that the flare of the Wind Scar changed. It flared almost blinding him with its brilliance and then the blade became a deep cerulean before it burst into a blue flame. It was as if Garion had used his great blade to light his sword as one would use a candle to light another. Inuyasha stared at it in wonder. The blue faded and it returned to its normal, polished silver before transforming back into its rusty blade. “I wonder what it did to the Wind Scar. It seemed a little different.” He sheathed the blade and took Rin's hand back into his own.

“I don't know. It didn't tell me what it was doing, it just did it.” Garion clapped Inuyasha on the shoulder. “I think what ever it did will come in handy, that's for sure.”

“Feh.” Inuyasha returned the smile. “I have to get this one to Kagome so we can get a move on.”

“Alright.” He carefully slid his massive sword back into its position on his back. “Grandfather said we have to be at an important place by sundown.” The young king launched himself into the saddle. “It'd be best to get a move on.”

“I heard.” Inuyasha looked down at Rin. “Well, are you ready, pup?”

Rin stiffened against him, looking up. Her eyes were wide. “Ready for what, Inuyasha-sama?” It seemed that the question had brought the little girl out of her stupor.

“To go ride with Kagome.” He glanced over towards his brother, noticing the slight frown on Sesshomaru's face. Inuyasha wondered what could possibly be bothering both the little girl and his brother. “What did you think?”

Rin shook her head. “It's nothing, Inuyasha-sama.”

Inuyasha shrugged in the direction of his brother. He didn't know what was bothering the little girl and the way Sesshomaru's gold eyes filled with vast confusion as they locked on the tiny girl unnerved him. Just what was going on between the two of them? It was obvious that both were apprehensive about something. Did it have anything to do with the strange noises only Rin could hear? He felt Rin tug on his hand and she whispered, “We have to go, Inuyasha-sama.”

Inuyasha trudged the rest of the way towards Kagome's horse, a small frown on his face. Rin was behaving oddly and it upset him. When he reached Kagome's horse, he hoisted Rin up under her arms towards his mate. Once Kagome had her steadied in the saddle with her, she smiled down at him. “What did Garion do to your sword?”

“Nothing. He said that Orb of theirs did it.” He felt his ears wilt and he sighed. Looking up, Inuyasha noticed the small frown on Kagome's lips. He felt dejected for causing it. Crossing his arms, he huffed. “Oi, wench, we have to get going.”

She smiled at him. “Well, get on your horse. You're the last one. You're the hold-up, dog boy.”

Inuyasha flattened his ears to his head. He smirked. “Feh.” Inuyasha leapt up into the saddle of his horse and followed the rest of the group out onto the road away from the inn. He was thankful to leave the wretched place behind him. The sooner it was left behind and the sooner they found who ever possessed the shard the better. He kicked his horse into a gallop, intending to take the lead for a change. Inuyasha fully intended upon being one of the first to engage in battle with who ever had the shard.

Glancing from the corner of his eye, he saw Sesshomaru join him. As the threat was certainly going to be in front of them, it seemed fine for the two of them to lead together. He felt a small smile cross his features. Inuyasha kicked his heels into his horse's side again, forcing the animal to gallop faster. It seemed to be the pace the rest of the group would follow. If Garion was right, what ever appointment they had to meet at sundown would require hard riding. It felt good to have the wind in his hair, although Inuyasha knew he could out run this horse quite easily.

The thundering of horse hooves filled Inuyasha's ears as they traversed the straight road ahead. The usual idle chatter as they rode was gone and he relished in the silence as the animal beneath him moved. He hated having to rely on the horse to transport him, but it felt better than being cooped up in the inn. Inuyasha challenged his brother to a race a few times, surprised when Sesshomaru took the bait. They both drove their horses harder, trying to reach some unseen goal first. A few times he won while others his brother managed to pass him up. It would pass the time while they traveled ever closer to whoever possessed the shard of the Shikon Jewel. It also kept his mind off of the troubling nightmares from the night.

The old man called a halt to the grueling pace in the late afternoon. He held up his hand and joined the two brothers in the front of the group. Inuyasha huffed, disappointed at having to stop. The old sorcerer said, “We have only a little ways more to go for today. Sundown approaches. We're also getting close to the Karandese border and that means we'll all have to be just a little more alert.” A hush fell over the group as they listened to the old man. “We're going to rest here for a short half an hour. Then we'll continue on our way.”

Inuyasha shrugged, jumping down from his horse. The melancholy he had felt in the morning had faded and all that remained now was a tightly restrained energy that rushed through his blood. He rushed to Kagome's side, helping Rin from her horse and then Kagome. Once his mate was on the ground, he took her hand into his and they made their way a little away from the horses. Kagome leaned in and whispered, “That shard is a half an hour away. It's coming this way.”

Inuyasha twitched his ears, apprehension filling his already wound up frame. “You sure?”
“Yes. It's coming our way fast.” She shivered next to him. “That aura from the grove is back. Can't you feel it?”

Inuyasha snorted. He nodded. “Yeah. I can.” He sniffed the air, smelling an unfamiliar creature's scent. It had to be the one from the grove for the scent was the same. The smell of human blood and fire reached his nose. He couldn't have guessed what it could be that emitted such a foul stench. Inuyasha slipped his arm around Kagome, pulling her close, his other hand on the hilt of Tetsusaiga. “Well if it has the shard it'll be lacking it soon enough.”

Sesshomaru joined them, Rin holding his hand again. She looked tense and her eyes were wide as she looked around the small clearing they had arrived in. His brother asked quietly, “Miko, is that shard near?”

Kagome nodded. “Yes. It's coming towards us now, actually. All day we were drawing near it and now its making its way here. I don't think it'll be much longer the way its rapidly coming.” She adjusted her quiver on her back, her bow clutched in a fist.

Sesshomaru looked towards him, curiosity in his eyes. “Inuyasha, draw Tetsusaiga.”

Inuyasha pulled the blade from its sheath at his hip. He transformed the blade into the fang, noting the blue tinge covering the blade. He noticed that the Wind Scar twirled with a faint touch of blue as well. “Guess what ever Garion did to it is still there. Wonder what it did to the Wind Scar.”

Sesshomaru pursed his lips. “And all you did was cross blades with the Godslayer?”

Inuyasha nodded. “Nearly burned my hand off when he touched that blade of his with Tetsusaiga's.” He swung it experimentally. Again the blade erupted into blue fire similar to that of the Godslayer. “What ever he did, it seems that Tetsusaiga gained something from it. Wonder how it'll work in battle.”

A great bellow could be heard that rang in Inuyasha's ears. He tensed up, thrusting Kagome behind him. Sesshomaru did the same with Rin. Kagome said, “I think you're about to find out, Inuyasha. Look!” She pointed past his cheek with a shaky finger.

What stood before them was a massive beast. It towered over them and giant arms sprouted from its gigantic shoulders. Each of the multiple arms produced enormous hands fitted with claws. As he looked up, Inuyasha saw the hideous face of the beast before him. It had six immense eyes with green fire in them. It raised its muzzle to the sky, thundering in a language he couldn't comprehend. Leveling Tetsusaiga in front of him, Inuyasha steadied himself to prepare for battle. The monster before them looked down, evil in his face. The beast said, “Hast the half-demon I have been told about come to challenge me? Naraku hast informed me of an insolent puppy who dare challenge me in battle. I shall take thy head as proof that your demise has been met. Thou darest to face me, half-breed?”

Inuyasha scoffed at him. He said, “I hear you have a sacred jewel shard. You must have gotten that from Naraku.”

Garion joined them, holding aloft his giant blade. It ran with fire and as he approached closer, Inuyasha noticed that Tetsusaiga's blade blazed to match it. He said, “This is what we've been waiting for all day. That's a demon.”

Inuyasha looked from the young king to the demon before him. So this is why they had thought of him and his brother as being so strange. If all the demons were like this one, it was no surprise. The demon snarled in a hideous language. It said, “The other shards you and your wench possess, young half-breed, shall be mine. You are unable to defeat me. I will take your head with me as proof to the King of Hell himself.”

“That's what you think!” Inuyasha unleashed the Wind Scar, watching as it coursed towards his target. It struck full on, ripping a dozen arms off the massive demon in front of them. They landed on the ground with a crash and twitched. The demon howled in pain and fury. Inuyasha snarled, “Take my head if you can!”

Sesshomaru stood not far away, guarding Rin and Kagome. Tokijin was out as he brandished it to attack. He leapt high into the air, blurring before Inuyasha's vision as he stabbed the blade into one of the giant eyes. He turned slicing the air again, the aura of his blade smiting the demon. Inuyasha waited to make his next attack, noticing that his sword flared again, the Wind Scar shifting.

The blade became cerulean again and as Sesshomaru pulled back into safety, Inuyasha slammed Tetsusaiga into the ground again. This time the track of the Wind Scar was a dazzling sapphire and as it connected with the demon before them it set the beast on fire. It surrounded the massive demon in front of them with a blue nimbus that flared and threatened to consume the beast. Inuyasha stared at his sword in wonder. A howl of agony erupted from the demon and it writhed in pain. It thundered in its hideous language an incomprehensible curse.

As the fire flickered out around the demon, Inuyasha noticed that Garion held his massive sword at a low point. He lifted it above his head, causing the blade to blaze even brighter. It nearly blinded Inuyasha with its radiance. It kept the demon stunned briefly. The massive monster clutched his multitude of arms around its head, flinching away. It howled in fear from the power of Garion's blade. Garion advanced, the blade of the Rivan King raised above his head. He slammed it into the flesh of the demon, burning it. The beast howled in agonized fury. Garion quickly ran back to Inuyasha's side, holding the sword aloft again. Garion barked, “Now!”

Inuyasha took this opportunity to send another Wind Scar towards the demon, this time without the blue fire. It connected, slicing more arms off. The demon seemed to be tougher than they had thought. He looked over his shoulder, “Kagome, where is the shard?”

Kagome stood, her bow ready and notched with an arrow. She said, “It's in the throat! Aim there.”

Sesshomaru ran around the cumbersome beast, slicing Tokijin into its back to further stun it. Just as he pulled the blade from the beast it tottered before charging forward. Rin's scream could be heard as it reached out to grip her in one of its massive clawed hands. If the demon should clutch her, it would instantly kill the child. Sesshomaru rapidly charged past the demon, outracing it as he tried to save the girl. As he neared, suddenly Rin cried out, “Sesshomaru-sama!” She disappeared suddenly before everyone's eyes and Sesshomaru faltered, searching with desperate eyes. It was long enough for the demon behind him to grip him instead in its giant clawed hand, squeezing the Demon Lord's body. A sick crack could be heard and Inuyasha was certain that something had broken in his brother's body. Inuyasha looked up, noticing the dazed look in Sesshomaru's eyes. He hung limply in the grasp of the massive beast. Sesshomaru's head fell forward, his eyes closed. Tokijin fell harmlessly from his grip, landing to stick into the ground blade point first.

Inuyasha growled. He shouted to the giant demon, “Your target is me! I'm the one with the jewel shards, not him!”

The demon turned, his eyes like green fire as it stared. It contemptuously threw Sesshomaru's body to the ground and a sick crack could be heard as Sesshomaru connected with a tree. It thundered, “Thy words are true, young half-breed. I shall take your jewel shards from you and bed your human whore. She shall birth on to this earth a fearsome monster that shall have dominion over all.” He flashed his two foot long fangs in the wanning sunlight.

“You fucking bastard! You will not touch my mate!” Inuyasha charged, noticing the blue fire renewed around his blade. He snarled as he smashed it into the ground, the sapphire streaks rushing towards its target. It hit full force, erupting around the demon. The demon writhed in agony and twisted its many arms as some new ones sprouted from its massive shoulders. Inuyasha launched another Wind Scar. “This one is for my brother!” It crashed, cutting off a few more limbs.

A hissing sound could be heard as Sango shouted with the effort of throwing her weapon. It connected with the demon square in the chest, tearing a hole into it. The demon clutched one hand to the gaping wound, black blood spilling onto the ground. Sango caught her giant weapon, leveling it on her shoulder. She rode high in the sky on Kirara. She shouted, “Inuyasha, where is Rin?” She tossed it again, lopping off a few more arms.

“We don't know.” Inuyasha looked around, trying to find his brother or the little girl anywhere. His first priority was to destroy the beast before him and he had to do it fast. At any time it might go after another. It had to fall and soon. He brandished Tetsusaiga for another blow. It seemed the jewel shard gave the demon the power to regenerate and he had to find a way to strike it down.

Kagome drew her bow back, releasing her arrow. It struck the target and this time the demon howled louder than it had when even the enhanced Wind Scar hit it. The demon seemed to shimmer and fade before solidifying again. She notched another arrow, shooting it through the massive shoulders. It was apparent to Inuyasha she was trying to hit the throat on the giant beast. A gaping hole appeared in its shoulder, as the pink light from Kagome's arrow fanned. Black blood pooled at the demon's feet and it howled in pain.

Miroku joined him at his side. “Inuyasha, where is Sesshomaru?”

“I don't know. I'm trying to kill this thing. That monster threw him over there somewhere.” Inuyasha tilted his head to the left indicating the small grove of trees off the road. He was worried about both Rin and Sesshomaru but first he had to eliminate the threat before them. If he didn't, there'd be no way to stop the beast. Then he could turn his attention them.

Miroku nodded. “And the little girl?”

“She disappeared into the thin air.” Inuyasha looked around, noticing that Garion had left at some point and that the sorcerers weren't involved in the fight at all. He was peeved at this. After all, they knew these monsters' weaknesses. He raised Tetsusaiga, resting it on his shoulder. The demon before them raged, lifting its massive muzzle to the sky. It howled. A host of imps surrounded the beast, called forth from out of nowhere. Inuyasha snorted. They were varying sizes and shapes. Some were red while others green and still others were shades of ruddy orange. They were smaller than the main demon, about the size of horses. Each had multiple arms with clawed hands. Inuyasha muttered, “Great. Just what we need. More demons.”

Miroku shouted, “Kagome, do any of the other demons have jewel shards?”

Kagome shook her head. “No!” She let another arrow fly, piercing one eye. The demon clutched several hands to it, writhing in pain. It screamed before bellowing something in its hideous language. She glared at him and shouted, “That was for calling me that awful name, you pig!” Inuyasha shook his head, sighing. Some things would never change about his Kagome.

“Good.” Miroku charged to the other side of the demon, drawing the imps towards him. It worked. The hideous beasts with multiple arms and fangs all converged around him, scrambling to devour him. Inuyasha watched as he stopped, a small smirk on the monk's face. Miroku ripped the beads off his hand, drawing the imps into his Wind Tunnel. Just as the last imp disappeared into its depth, he sealed his hand away from the poisonous insects that threatened to fly in.

Sango flew over head on Kirara. She tossed hiraikotsu into the air, slaying the poison insects of Naraku. She shouted, “I can't find Sesshomaru or Rin. Is everyone else alright?”

Inuyasha looked up. He nodded, “Yeah.” Inuyasha glanced over towards Kagome. He had an idea. This demon didn't have an aura he could readily use so he'd have to make use of another method. “Kagome! I'm going to charge towards him. I want you to shoot at my back.”

She looked puzzled before nodding. “Okay, Inuyasha.” She notched another arrow, steadying herself.

Inuyasha smirked slightly. If this demon wouldn't fall to his Wind Scar or even the strange effect that Garion's sword had on Tetsusaiga, perhaps it would to his Backlash Wave. He launched himself up into the air, Tetsusaiga above his head as he jumped. Inuyasha sailed through the air at the demon's throat, dodging the arms of the monster. He heard Kagome's arrow hiss through the air and he waited until it nearly hit him before dodging and unleashing Tetsusaiga's power alongside that of her sacred arrow. His Backlash Wave erupted, spiraling towards the demon. It flickered blue and blended with the pink of Kagome's arrow, melding the two into a deep violet before slicing the demon directly in half. The jewel shard sprung forth and Inuyasha clutched the shard in his fist, twisting from the remaining hands waiting to grab him. The demon howled and shrunk down to the size of an imp. It looked to be about the size of Jaken. Then an orange smoke enveloped it and it disappeared. Inuyasha slumped to the ground, panting.

As Inuyasha looked up, he saw Sesshomaru stumble from the grove of trees. It was obvious that his right leg was broken, an injury earned from the intense grip of the demon Inuyasha had just defeated. His eyes were blood red and he sniffed frantically. It was apparent to Inuyasha that he was looking for Rin. Sesshomaru dragged his near useless leg behind him, determined to keep going. Blood gushed from his thigh, coating his white hakama until they appeared to be black. A trail could be seen from the grove. He pushed himself ahead further and Inuyasha rushed to his side, grabbing him around the waist. His brother snarled, looking down at him with feral eyes. He whispered, “Rin.”

Inuyasha said, “We'll find her. Go slow. Your leg is smashed.” He eased Sesshomaru's arm around his shoulders.

Sesshomaru leaned against his frame, determined to continue. He dragged himself past the scorched spot where the demon had been a moment before. Sesshomaru raised his nose again, trying to pick up on any scent that would give him Rin's location. Inuyasha followed suit, trying to pinpoint Rin's scent anywhere. Sesshomaru hissed, “Rin.”

Inuyasha said, “Yeah, I know. We're going to find her. You nearly got yourself killed out there, asshole. You think you're invincible but you're not.”

Kagome tossed her bow to the ground, “Sesshomaru!” She went to his other side, holding him up with her own weight. “We have to tend to your wound.”

Sesshomaru weakly growled. Inuyasha noticed as he adjusted Sesshomaru's lithe form against him that the demon's crushing grip had also snapped a few ribs. His brother's weak voice whispered, “Rin.”

Kagome said, “Rin? Where is she? Inuyasha go find Rin. He can't make it much further with this blood loss. I don't care if he's a Demon Lord. He's losing blood and lots of it fast. That bone looks like it cut into one of his arteries when it snapped. Go!”

Inuyasha nodded, helping Kagome adjust to the heavy weight of his brother. She attempted to get him to sit but he refused. Sesshomaru pushed her away with his hand, hauling his broken leg behind him as he continued. Inuyasha noticed that blood trickled out of one corner of Sesshomaru's mouth and his red eyes flashed gold before becoming fazed. “Miroku! Hold him up!”

Miroku nodded. He took the side that Inuyasha had, throwing Sesshomaru's arm around his shoulders. He said, “Sesshomaru-sama, you must sit. You're too weak to keep going this way. You'll never make it far enough to find Rin if you bleed to death.”

Shippo emerged from his hiding place around the trees. He said, “Is Sesshomaru-sama going to be alright?” It had been the first time the kit had expressed anything besides fear where it concerned his brother. He jumped up onto Kagome's shoulder, looking into the Demon Lord's face.

Inuyasha saw a brief flicker of recognition in Sesshomaru's eyes. His eyes flashed red again and in their depths anger boiled. Sesshomaru dragged both Miroku and Kagome behind him, too stubborn to quit until he located Rin. Inuyasha bolted, sniffing everywhere for Rin. If he didn't find her soon, Sesshomaru could very well drive himself to death trying to find the lost child.

Sango shouted from above, “She's down here, Inuyasha!”

Inuyasha looked up towards the slayer on Kirara's back. He sniffed, picking up on the scent in the direction she pointed. He came across the little girl clutching the she-wolf around the neck. The wolf's tongue lolled out in quiet laughter and her gold eyes were filled with a strange satisfaction. Rin looked exhausted and frightened. Inuyasha approached slowly, glaring at the wolf. He whispered, “Rin, Sesshomaru is worried about you.”

Rin opened her tired eyes. The brown depths looked exhausted and drained. She whispered, “Sesshomaru-sama.”

“Yes. He's looking for you. Let me take you to him.”

Sango and Kirara landed. She looked grim as she stood by the fire cat. She looked over towards Inuyasha. “Any sign of the others coming this way?”

Inuyasha snorted. “If my brother's half as stubborn as I think he is, he'll drag himself here even if it kills him.”

Another wolf padded out near the she-wolf and a snowy white owl landed. They shimmered and the old sorcerer and his daughter stood. Belgarath said, “You managed to defeat that demon.”

“Yeah. And if I don't get this little girl back to Sesshomaru he's going to bleed out and be the other demon to die today.” Inuyasha knelt down on the ground. “What were you guys doing that whole time? I'd like to know why I had to fight that thing without your help.”

“We needed to protect the others. That demon wasn't the only threat around. Grolims are also crawling around the area. They were trying to attack minds and we had to prevent that. We're sorry it left you with the demon.” Polgara sighed. “I must say I've never seen anyone capable of defeating a demon without the aid of a God. What was that last attack?”

“My Backlash Wave. It sure tore that thing to shreds. I took its shard and it turned into an imp.” Inuyasha watched as Rin walked towards him on wobbly legs. Sweat touched her brow. “Oi, pup, why are you so tired?”

Polgara's lips were touched with a small smile. “She translocated herself out of danger. It's expected that she'd be exhausted. We were also protecting her. The Grolims were sent after her after all.”

Inuyasha felt Rin crash against his chest, her tiny arms going around his back. She sobbed quietly. “Sesshomaru-sama.” It was all she could muster to ask for him to take her to his brother.

Inuyasha stared at the woman before him. “Translocated? What are you talking about? The girl disappeared into the thin air back there.”

“She willed herself here. When she screamed for your brother, and because she's unable to focus her will just yet, Rin brought herself here. She was trying to will your brother out of the way of that demon. Instead, she sent herself here.” Belgarath dusted off his worn tunic. “This changes things.”

“Father, we have to take care of the wounded before we do anything. You said Sesshomaru is hurt?” Polgara pulled her cloak tightly around herself.

“Yeah. His right leg is busted. Kagome said the bone cut one of his arteries. He's trying to claw his way to the little girl.” Inuyasha sighed as he rubbed the tired little girl's back. What did they mean Rin had translocated herself. He sighed. This would complicate things. Looking over his shoulder, he saw Sesshomaru drag his battered body towards the clearing. As soon as he saw Rin, his red eyes flickered back to gold and he collapsed in the dirt, unconscious. Inuyasha shook his head. His brother had wasted every ounce of his energy just to reassure himself that the little girl was alright.

Rin lifted her head off his shoulder as she saw her lord. She ran from Inuyasha towards Sesshomaru. Rin sobbed and cried out, “Sesshomaru-sama! Don't leave me. Be okay!” She placed her hand onto his, squeezing it gently.

Miroku and Kagome stood behind him, looking haggard. Kagome said, “We tried to get him to stop but he refused.” She sighed.

Shippo nodded on Kagome's shoulder. “All he kept saying was Rin's name.”

Polgara knelt down by him. “He's lost a lot of blood. I'm going to tend to him. I'll need something for splints and something to curb his bleeding. Quickly. He's already lost too much blood.” She clucked her tongue, dispersing the group in front of her with efficiency. Polgara, with Kagome's help, lifted the massive weight of the Demon Lord, rolling him onto his back.

Garion approached from the now lengthening shadows. He looked worn and tired. Inuyasha glared at him. “Good timing running out in the middle of the fight like that.”

Garion shook his head. “Sorry, Inuyasha. I had to stop some Grolims. They were after Rin. If you hadn't noticed we had our own battle going on.”

Inuyasha glanced around the clearing, noticing the bodies scattered about. Apparently he hadn't lied when he had said they had their own fight. Various members of the traveling party dragged their tired or injured bodies towards where Polgara knelt tending to Sesshomaru. The giant man with the red beard wiped his blood stained sword on the ground. “I'm getting real fed up with this, Belgarath. I like a fight just as much as the next man, but really.”

Durnik joined Polgara's side, giving her a black bag. “Here you go, Pol.” He sat down by his mate, helping her cut away Sesshomaru's blood spattered hakama from his thigh. He tugged on the dented armor. “Pol, he's broken at least six ribs.” He looked over the plate. “I can fix this for him, make it even stronger.”

Hettar emerged from the woods, his face grim. He sheathed his rapier before sitting down. “I am beginning to despise Grolims as much as I do Murgos.”

Zakath laughed weakly as he sat not far away. “You hate them? What about me? I'm stuck having to fight with them over religion. They just won't give up. Torak's dead and they're scrambling to remain relevant.” He wiped his face clean of sweat.

“Methinks that the Grolims most enjoy a good fight.” A soft chuckle could be heard as the knight emerged. “I most enjoyed myself. The thrill of battle fills mine ears and cheers my blood.” He sat down, polishing blood off the front of his armor.

Silk snorted not far away. “Mandorallen, you know what, you make me sick. Absolutely sick. Did you not notice there was a demon over there? It could have eaten all of us. Trust a Mimbrate Arend to think it's fun to be in a big battle where one can become your opponents dinner.” He groaned, touching some tender ribs. “They could have left a few of those filthy Karands behind, though.”

Inuyasha sighed. It appeared he hadn't been the only one to have a fight, after all. He looked back towards Garion, asking “Rin? Why? I don't understand. Why were the Grolims after her? She's just a little girl.” Inuyasha sighed. This was all too much.

“We'll talk after your brother's wounds are tended to. There is a lot to discuss.” Polgara said. “Everything will be alright. All that was supposed to happen did.”

Inuyasha snorted. He placed Tetsusaiga back to his hip before crouching next to his brother and then sighed. He rested his hand on his brother's shoulder, gently squeezing it. Inuyasha whispered, “You better not die on me, bastard. I'll use that sword of yours to bring you back if you do just so I can beat the shit out of you, you hear me, Sesshomaru? I mean it, jackass. Don't fucking die.”