InuYasha Fan Fiction / Yu-Gi-Oh! Fan Fiction ❯ The return of Anubis ❯ The return of Anubis ( Chapter 12 )

A/N: I do not own Inuyasha, I do not own YuGiOh, I do not own Fairy Tail and I definitely do not own Tales of the Abyss.

Sorry for the extremely long update! I am so busy with this new job and school AND the other fic I am working on. I'll try to update as most I can every week. Anyhow, happy reading!

~X~

It was time.

Kagome had spent those last grueling days training with those maidens and with Ishtar and then came the day of the planet's alignment.

That sun was high above the clouds and literally everyone within Atem's kingdom were preparing for tonight's event.

Increased security would be placed at every gate, every corridor and every room within the palace and even more guards would be stationed at the city gates, checking and re-checking every person who decided to enter into the city. They couldn't take any chances with Anubis' revival right around the corner. In about six hours, the doors to the underworld would begin to open.

Atem's four dragons were on patrol that entire morning. Aria stood guard near the south entrance of the city, Kisara took the skies near the palace, covering the north side while both Freed and Asche were on the ground and guarded the east and western entrances respectively.

The four maidens would be already on that large stage with Ishtar in tow, going over their hymns for the afternoon. Each one had its significance and a specific one would be given to each one of them they had to recite them when the time was right.

Both Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru would be keeping guard around Kagome because they could also feel the air change that day. While they may not look it, youkai were also in tune with `the other side'. And Sesshoumaru's sword, the Tenseiga, was also tense. It would continuously pulse throughout the day as it was at his side. He did not know the significance for this but knew it was all in relation to the doors to the other side weakening by the hour.

And as the day went on, Atem's people would begin to gather around the center stage where the four maidens would be, preparing for the event. The crowd grew bigger and bigger, even bigger than the day Kagome arrived to Egypt one month ago. This was going to be big. Huge. Humungous.

Kagome was so nervous. More nervous that she had ever been. She kept telling herself that she could do this but along with that nervousness, there would be anxiety. Nothing bad was going to happen, right? Everything was going to go smoothly and Kagome would be heading right back home once this was all over.

Yes, that's exactly what was going to happen.

“Alright girls. You may take a break. We have about three hours until the planet's alignment is at its peak.”

Then Ishtar would gesture the girls' attention to the sky and seen the Sun wasn't in its normal burning bright color. It was actually… Red. Kagome gasped. She hadn't even noticed the sky changing! The sky above began to change as those minutes went and no longer was it its usual blue but it was a soft purple color, mixed in with various bright stars and planets in the distance then the vast, open space beyond it. Kagome wasn't sure if it was night or day anymore. It looked like a mixture between the two.

It looked just like the spiritual realm, almost. Was this happening all over the world?!

She could sense the spirits that were all around her but they were not here here. It was weak but she could sense the many that wanted to get out of the other side.

Kagome slowly rose to her feet and took some steps back as she gave the sky one last look before heading back to the far end of the platform and took those steps down that led back to the main path into the palace. The moment she reached the bottom of those stairs, Sesshoumaru would appear right by her side and seeing him here startled her. He just appeared out of nowhere!

“Sesshoumaru…”

The DaiYoukai regarded the girl with that same expressionless mask, amber hues washing over her as she wore her usual miko attire. Today was the big day, was it not? The day she and those other four maidens would place a seal on the door and stop Anubis from reviving. He could sense the nervousness that came from her yet she was trying not to show it. It was a big deal after all.

“Are you afraid?”

Lips would purse together when she heard his question, her eyes gazing back ahead and down that path that led into the palace. “No, I'm not… But…”

“But?”

Kagome frowned as she began to pace forwards with Sesshoumaru just beside her, awaiting her words. He knew she would not suddenly back out on this event, she prepared for a whole two months for this. Both in Japan and here. Yet the aura she gave off was that of uncertainty. Was she not confident she could perform her part in all of this?

“I feel as if something horrible is about to happen. Maybe it is just me but I cannot shake this feeling off. It bothers me.”

The two had made it inside the palace and treaded silently along those busy halls, Atem's guards constantly running back and forth as they would prepare for the next hour. The two arrived at her room and the raven haired girl stared at it for long moments. Sesshoumaru noticed this and seen the hesitation from just body language alone. Her hands then clutched at her collar of her haori, those eyes staring off into space.

Instead, Sesshoumaru would open the door for her, the sound of the doors opening had her shook and regained her focus. Eyes stared out into the dimly lit suite for the moment before turning to look at Sesshoumaru as he stepped inside without another word.

Kagome followed inside as well and sighed, her eyes on that same large lounge couch she'd come to love time and time again. The door was closed behind her by Sesshoumaru and Kagome face planted on that cushion face first with a huff before twisting and turning her body to lie on her side that faced towards the kitchen. Those dark locks spilled around her, eyes closing briefly and a displeased sound came from the girl as she laid there.

“Sesshoumaru, if anything happens… You'll protect me, right?”

She didn't know where he was but she could sense his presence near.

“Do you doubt my abilities, miko?”

Kagome heard his reply and her face looked surprise upon hearing him speak as the tone he took was… less than pleasant. Slowly she'd turn from the spot to rest upon her back and eyes would glance up to find Sesshoumaru just above her, gazing down at the girl who would rest upon cushions.

“Of course not. I am just worried, is all…”

“You have nothing to worry over.”

Did she really?

Slowly the girl moved to sit upright upon that cushion, her hair tussled and a complete mess and Sesshoumaru watched her every move.

Something about the miko had him following her around every where she went. Like a necessity to be at her side. He hadn't even mated her yet felt like he already had done so. But had she long moved on from his idiot half-brother? Of all the times Sesshoumaru brought her pleasure, brought her release and shown her compassion that hanyou would never give her, would she still move on and forget Inuyasha?

Kagome's eyes gazed ahead at the balcony but soon her head tilted to look upon Sesshoumaru whose gaze was still on her and it burned intensely. He looked to be in thought and Kagome had no idea what he was thinking about. Whenever she found him gazing at her like that, they ended up having some intense sex.

Oh no. Were they gonna do it?! But was there even time to do so?

Upon even realizing this, Kagome blushed like mad and held her face in her hands, trying to hide it even, as embarrassment would take over. Sesshoumaru saw this in Kagome and even though he looked completely uninterested, it was the opposite. He could hear her heartbeat race and was that… Her arousal? Why was she aroused?

Did the girl not say to hold out on the physical interactions until this was all over? Well, she was resisting herself somewhat.

“S-sorry..! I just… remembered something I should have.”

Her gaze was staring hard at her lap and could not dare move let alone look at the source of what her thoughts would be focused on. But how could she blame herself? Sesshoumaru was such a good lover. She knew this. Kagome was convinced that if she had sex with Inuyasha, it would pale in comparison to Sesshoumaru.

Dear kami, why was she even thinking this?!

Kagome's thought process would be immediately ended when she heard powerful knocks on the door to her room.

Both Kagome and Sesshoumaru turned to the door and would soon hear a voice calling out for the maiden on the other side, “It is time, Kagome. They await you at the main room.”

That was the voice of one of the many guards that served under Atem.

“Thank you, I'll be there shortly.”

Well, at least she was no longer aroused.

“Time to get this over with…” Words mumbled to herself. She pushed herself forwards but she did not get far as she saw a hand held out for her to take. It belonged to Sesshoumaru and she stared at it for long moments before finally taking it in her own and smiled to herself. She'd feel his warm hands clasp around hers and with ease he'd assisted her off of that couch onto her feet.

Suddenly the two found it hard to let go of each other's hand. Kagome didn't know why she had a hard time letting go, not after what she had been through lately. Today may be the final day of—No. She wasn't going to finish that. That was not going to happen, she was sure of it.

She turned to look upon Sesshoumaru and he gazed back down at her with his mask slowly fading away. Sesshoumaru was known to hide his emotions easily but when it was just the two of them, there was a rare chance something would slip through his mask. And so it did, that same soft look he had shown her twice before. It had been a long time since she'd seen this look and every time she saw it, it had her heart soaring.

“Sesshoumaru… I am… so happy that I've come to know you. And thank you for coming along with me to this trip. I know it may not have been so much fun for you but it's almost over.”

The softest of smiles would be placed upon her lips as she gazed up at the man who been through this whole thing and not once showed he was irritable. She was thankfully for everything he has done, even being there when Inuyasha wasn't.

Sesshoumaru gazed back at the girl when she spoke yet for some reason, he felt as if he was never going to see her again after today. Why did she speak in such a way? It was something that shouldn't bother him but now, that feeling won't go away.

Kagome felt her hand being squeezed just lightly and that had her blue eyes remaining firm upon his golden yellows, “Miko. This Sesshoumaru will personally see to it you will make it out of here alive.”

“Aha, sorry. I did not mean it to sound like I'm signing a death wish or anything.”

Yet she was still somewhat feeling worried. Will everything be truly okay?

Smile would return to her lips and now she began to tug him with as she headed for the door, “I'll be late if we stay here any longer.”

He followed her but when s he reached for that door, Sesshoumaru stopped in his tracks. Kagome was about to speak but again she was pulled in close and the male leant down to capture her lips in a soft and tender kiss. The same kiss that resembled the one from the first time he kissed her two months ago. It didn't even surprise Kagome this time because she was expecting it somehow.

And so that kiss remained tender as can be, even as the girl kissed him back, matching the passion he had. He was right, Kagome was going to see through this and come out alive. And then she would be heading back with Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha, unharmed.

It was as if the two didn't want this moment to end but eventually Kagome had pulled away from him whilst leaning back to grab a hold of the door handle. The door was pulled open and her eyes opened to find Sesshoumaru's gaze upon her and blushed as he was so close.

“Look what you did, Fluffy-chan. You're going to make me late!”

“That is not my fault, miko.”

“It is!” The two managed to get outside to the halls and she couldn't help but to giggle when she was making her way back down to the main room of the palace, having finally removed the hold on his hand and so would he, letting the girl go and complete her duties. She had to hurry or else this revival thing was about to blow up in their faces.

Kagome made it down those flights of stairs and the moment she arrived, it was crowded. The main entrance to the palace was filled with guards all around and there in the middle of the room stood the Pharaoh, Atem.

Atem was currently giving orders to his soldiers, tell them to not let anyone through during the ceremony. No matter who they were, they will be denied all access until the planet alignment was over. He began to shout out instructions to them all and groups of them began to scatter and head to their spots as instructed by the pharaoh.

While some remained, Atem turned from the spot and his eyes found Kagome who was already looking at him. She would smile at the pharaoh and he regarded her quickly and began to approach her, “Kagome, you look to be in good spirits. Are you feeling better?”

She remembered that time he found her at his library, crying her heart out. How embarrassing that was! “Yes, I am. Thank you, Atem.” He managed to get close to her so that she could hear his voice, keeping his distance.

“Are you ready?”

He looked expectantly at the girl and she nodded her head firmly.

Atem would grin, “Good. Come, they are waiting for you outside.” And so he would motion for her to follow and she would, leading the girl outside.

And the moment she stepped outside, the skies were pitch black. It was night time. How the hell was it already night time?

And there in the sky, she saw the burning red sun and the bright, distinctively colored stars… Wait, those were the planets, right? They were all dreadfully close, it actually looked like they were aligned.

Gazing at the skies above would be quickly interrupted when she heard the loud, bustling crowd just some meters ahead and it sounded bigger than ever. Kagome knew the Egyptians would treat this as a big event, especially when it came to spirits and reviving the dead. The security was tight here, too, and those guards were constantly keeping watch for any who dared to come through. No one would be allowed to enter when this would be happening.

Kagome climbed up those steps with Atem just in front of her and she would see all of his priests who stood beside Ishtar and the three maidens would already be in their spots—the large, wide circle that had hieroglyphics written upon stone would be where they sat, forming a `square' within the circle. And the last spot at the top left corner would be for Kagome.

She took one deep breath through her nostrils while Atem watched her with a careful eye. He knew she would be ready for this and had nothing to worry about. Kagome would move forwards and place herself in the only open spot available for her. Ignoring the cheers of the crowds ahead, they sat cross legged at their spots with Ishtar placed directly in the middle of it all.

Ishtar gave one final look to all of them and smiled warmly to those girls. She knew all of them were nervous but Ishtar would soon ease their nervousness as she began a small hymn, a prayer to the spirits that they had all led to the other side during their month here. And while she did that, Atem had ordered Seto and the rest of his priests that served under him to begin the ritual of the seal.

Seto and the other five priests would place themselves around the platform and they, too, would begin to go into prayer. Their bodies began to glow and odd whitish blue light, just like that time Kagome saw the floors light up during the festival of the moon. This time, the light, the aura, the energy was much stronger than ever before. It felt soothing, peaceful and so warm.

Atem would approach his crowd at the head of the stage, gracing them all with his presence as they'd continuously cheer and chant his name. He rose up his hand and in moments, the millennium staff would appear in his hand and he'd grip onto it tightly. The staff would be brought down onto the stage and immediately he'd bright that staff back up, pointing it to the sky.

The planets were now aligned.

The sun, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune and Pluto formed a perfect line and several hundred feet into the air above Atem's kingdom, a black vortex would make its appearance, swirling and swirling in circular formation until it grew. It grew bigger and bigger until the actual doors of the other side became visible to the naked eye.

The crowd of Atem's people looked up and stared with wide eyes, most in fear and others, the many few who supported Anubis' revival, would stare with glee.

Too bad their god would not be rived in this century!

When the doors became visible, the aura from the maidens would grow exponentially and four bright, white pillars of light that came from them would shoot out up into the sky, forcibly keeping those doors closed. And soon Ishtar's aura would appear as well in a more, thicker form of light, the pillar shooting up fast into the sky and pressed firm on that door that struggled to open. All of the maidens' light would begin to spread and connect with one another, forming a `chain' like appearance onto the door as they focused their power.

The maidens could feel the tremendous amount of force being applied onto the door, the sounds of extremely loud banging would be heard as someone or something tried to get through.

Even the crowd heard this banging and they too could feel the aura of `death' that seeped through the door.

Anubis wanted out.

~X~

“The time has come my fellow creatures of the dead!”

That booming voice came from none other than Anubis who would be marching for that door that led out of the underworld and behind him would be a horde of monsters, spirits and other menacing entities that wished to pass through the door. His two greatest bodyguards, Husani and Theinen, would be posted at either side of the god of death, leading the `cavalry' somewhat.

“Today is the day we take back what is rightfully ours. The land of the living.”

All those creatures that followed Anubis would roar and cheer for their god, loyal as can be and would gladly die for his cause. Well, save for one… And that would be Husani.

He had returned to the underworld that day after Kagome healed him and ever since, he'd been having second thoughts about this whole thing. The girl managed to change his heart in the short amount of time he had known her for. He was given something he hadn't ever though he'd get, especially from an enemy. Compassion. But could she even be considered an enemy anymore? A part of him had hoped he won't come across her today because he knew he would be ordered to kill her and bring her soul back to Anubis.

He was spared that fate because the sphinx, Theinen, was given that order. Anubis told Theinen to find Kagome and bring her back to him, dead or alive. It would not matter because Anubis could revive the dead at any time. Husani was…. Slightly worried. He already knew what Anubis was going to do. He was going to make Kagome his wife and have her live eternally at his side as he ruled both worlds.

Husani could not let that happen.

The large army of monsters, creatures and all sorts of beasts would now arrive at the door and all of them could sense it grew weak yet it was not opening. This was because those maidens on the other side would be using their power to keep it closed.

Anubis simply smirked. “Just a matter of time, my dear pets.”

Byakuya's `seeds' he had implanted in some of Atem's guards would soon be sprouting and taking effect any second now. All they had to do was wait.

Anubis took flight, rising above his army and pointed at the door, “March, my beasts. Let us show them we are here and soon make our grand entry!”

And all of those creatures would charge for the door, continuously banging upon it in unison and gave a shove. It felt like the door was going to open at some point but it never did as the chains that held it down prevented it from being opened.

Only five more minutes left of the alignment and that was plenty of time for Byakuya's trap to spring into action.

~X~

So far, everything on the world of the living was going smoothly.

Kagome kept her focus as she recited her hymn and prayer when it was her turn, her own aura flaring greatly and the chains upon that door thickened, keeping it from opening out.

Honestly, this was easy!

Kagome had nothing to worry about.

Just a few more minutes of prayer and everything was going to go fine and she would be heading home in no time at all.

Well, maybe.

Those seeds Byakuya planted into the guards would now take effect. Those `seeds' would be tiny, small scarabs that had been inserted inside them, embedded into their flesh by the Bandit King. Those scarabs would now crawl up their skin and their target was the brain.

While those maidens continued their prayer, three of Atem's guards that were posted nearby were currently about to be brainwashed.

The scarab had crawled upwards and one guard that was near the southern end of the platform began to wince lightly in pain but none seemed to have notice. It would be too late when the process would be complete. The scarabs implanted into the guards would sink their jagged horns into the flesh of their brains, the part that controlled their actions and movements—the frontal lobe.

And it was at that moment that everything went downhill.

The scarabs would change their reasoning and rewrite their actions as Byakuya implanted his orders. All life from their eyes would be drained and looked to brainless dolls. They could not control their movements and the one guard that was posted near the maidens would grip tight onto his spear and slowly raised it. None would seem to notice this guard as it moved because everyone would be far too focused on the girls or the sky.

The spear was raised high and the guards' mouth opened wide, “Long live Anubis!”

After shouting his devotion for the god of death, that spear was chucked through the air and whirred straight for its target.

The moment that spear struck its intended target, all of the maidens there opened their eyes and gasped as something was interrupted. Kagome's eyes opened wide and looked around—

“…eh…?”

The maidens would look to the girl who was from Greece and they gasped in unison. The girl named Anna was struck with that spear the guard threw and it impaled her chest. Copious amounts of blood would seep through that grueling wound, turning her white clothing into crimson red.

Kagome's eyes widened as the girl began to couch up blood from her lips, her eyes slowly trailing over towards Kagome and looked to be so confused, so pained and so hurt… She weakly raised a hand to reach out for her, “Kagome…?”

“Anna!”

The girl from Greece fell in moments, a pool of her own blood forming beneath her body. She was dead.

Kagome screamed.

No, no! This wasn't supposed to be happening right now!

Immediately panic had ensued.

Atem whipped around quickly when he heard Kagome's scream, his eyes finding her but then saw what she was eyeing at in terror. Atem's eyes widened when one of the maiden's was killed by one of his own guards' weapon. How did this happen!? They were secured. No one would have made it through! His eyes went up to find that guard who threw the weapon and immediately he'd barked out orders for his guards to kill them swiftly.

And because of the death of the girl, the link they had would be promptly broken and Ishtar noticed this immediately. Her eyes flashed open and what she saw before her was Anna who lay dead with a half bloody spear emerging out from her chest. Whoever did this was the mastermind because the moment Anna died, the hold upon the door above was weakened. The connection they were building up was wavering and the three maidens that were alive could no longer focus on the task in holding the door.

They were ultimately devastated that Anna was dead. Immediately the crowd began to scream in terror while a selected few would cheer on for the main event. Anubis would be arriving soon.

Those upon the stands would scramble for safety, Seto, Mahad and the other priests would call out for the servants and maiden's to hurry and take shelter within the palace. Kagome, Dria and Lakoya would hurry to their feet and run towards Seto and Mahad as they called for them but the two guards that were also under Byakuya's trap would make their move. They'd throw their spears at the maidens and the one that came for Kagome almost struck her but Sesshoumaru leapt in quick to slice that spear with his claws.

He growled lowly and glared daggers at the brainless doll of the guard but all it would do is just laugh manically before keeling over in a lifeless heap onto the stone platform.

Dria didn't make it, unfortunately. That spear struck her in the back and she was impaled right at her heart and she fell to her death, Lakoya crying out in fear as her dear friend was struck down. Kagome whipped around and quickly reached for Lakoya's hand as she was so traumatized at the spot and just couldn't move.

“We need to run, now!”

She tugged on Lakoya's hand and the teary eyed girl would try to make it to her feet and move with Kagome as best as she could. The other guard that was standing was ready to throw his spear but Inuyasha leapt in and with sword drawn, he'd slain that guard with blood spattering all over the ground and painting his sword.

He growled lowly once his opponent was dead, head whipping back to find Kagome fine and alive with Sesshoumaru beside her.

They had to get out of here.

Nothing but screams, wails and cheers would be heard in the midst of the chaos and this was what Atem feared. The coup d'état. It was happening.

He'd turn from his spot and raised his staff and that's when those dragons that were high above in the clouds and the single one that was on the ground would be contacted by use of his power, “It is as I feared my dragons… The inevitable.”

Aria's eyes widened when she soared through the skies, now making her descent towards Atem's kingdom, “What happened Atem?! Did the deal not work?!”

The black dragon could see the large, black swirling vortex of the doors that led to the other side just some miles above the proud city and she could feel the spirits that came forth. So much malicious intent and menacing power. It was Anubis, no doubt.

“Is Kagome okay?!”

That would be Asche speaking through the link between dragon's and Atem, the red dinosaur high tailing it back for the palace as he could hear the screams and wails from his position on the far west end of the city. He could see many of Atem's people scrambling away from the stage in the distance, looking to get to safety. His powerful legs would make work through the wide streets, those hard and heavy footfalls heard as the dragon was making his way back.

Atem took a look back and had seen Kagome and the other maiden, Lakoya, head back into his palace, currently protected by their companions along with Seto and Mahad and hoped they will make it back. Ishtar would be still at her spot, trying her hardest to keep that door close. Because as those seconds went, it was slowly opening.

“She is fine and so is Lakoya. The other two maidens… Are dead.”

He could hear the gasp coming from Aria and Kisara while the two other male dragons growled out lowly in anger.

“Who did this?!”

“We will worry about that later. For now, listen to my orders—Asch, Aria, come to the palace quickly and stand guard over Kagome and Lakoya. Kisara, head to the main entrance of the city. Freed, you will cover her. Do not let anyone suspicious through. If you see any intruder, eliminate them immediately. Protection of my people comes first. Do not let them die.”

“Yes, lord Atem!”

And so those dragons began to proceed with Atem's order, Aria and Asche making their way for the palace while Kisara and Freed made their way for the main entrance and looked for any intruders on the way, ready to kill anyone who looked suspicious.

Aria and Asche arrived at the large platform simultaneously and those eyes found the dead bodies of Anna and Dria before them. Aria was angered that someone did this and couldn't believe the coup was happening. Asche bolted down the path that led to the palace to catch up with Kagome and the rest.

But the moment he had her in his sights, the sky began to crackle and a loud resounding thunder would be heard. Lightning flashed repeatedly and the single pillar of light that was held on the door would crumble as Ishtar could no longer keep that door closed. It was just too overwhelming for her. Strong winds began to pick up the moment the doors up above opened and the other side was revealed.

Atem gathered up the weak Ishtar in his arms once he placed his staff away, “Ishtar! Are you alright?”

The woman weakly moved from within his arms but she managed to nod her head slowly, “I am alright, Atem. It seems I have failed you, though. And for that, I am sorry…”

He shook his head, “No, it is not your fault. You did all that you could and I am grateful for that.”

They were the only two left remaining on that stage as they could only watch the doors they tried to keep close open further and further until hell fire flames would be seen spewing from the outer edges of the portal.

The first one who left that portal would be the one they had dread to see. The massive amounts of power that came from his being when he made his entrance would be sensed by all of those below.

Anubis grinned wickedly once the cool air of the living realm washed over his face, his nostrils flaring and took one deep breath as he was now inhaling fresh air into his lungs. The powerful man began his descent and the air around him began to change immediately. The clouds up above within the stratosphere would swirl, darkening in color as white would fade to a dull grey. It looked close to rain but no rain drop fell. Nothing but thunder, lightning and strong winds.

Kagome could only watch in horror from the distance as she was now looking at the god of death make his grand entrance as he'd emerge out from that portal above. This was him? He looked like an ordinary Egyptian but there was nothing but a dark, menacing aura that came from him. Her gaze went down and found Atem knelt with Ishtar in his arms, the two having not yet moved from his spot.

Shouldn't they go save them!? Who knows what Anubis will do!

It became deathly silent when Anubis landed onto that platform where Kagome and Ishtar just was earlier saying their prayers, even the small crowd that stayed behind to see this event would be silent as well when the god made its appearance.

Powerful gaze would find Atem before him and he was regarded with an angered expression by the Pharaoh and all he would do his smirk.

“Atem. Didn't think you'd see me so soon, hm?”

Strong arms would cross over his chest; the usual angered and bulging bodied man would actually look to be calm, too calm almost. Near peaceful. Atem saw this and his anger never flared so high, it surprised even Ishtar as he held her. She managed to recover a tad and so, he would raise up to his feet as he lifted up the oracle, setting her down gracefully.

“Ishtar. Head to the palace and take shelter. I will deal with Anubis.”

Her eyes widened. He was going to take on a god?! Well, he had done so before but he had help from others at the time. Now? He had none. And she was sure Atem would be killed.

Anubis smirked and looked to the pair before him and took note of his oracle. So, this was not the girl he seeks. Kagome was who he was looking for… And if he was correct, she was near, wasn't she? Anubis' head turned to the right, gazing down the path that led to Atem's palace and in the distance; those eyes found a particular woman, a small, raven haired girl with blue eyes so bright.

Kagome was gazing on and hoped both Atem and Ishtar would be okay but when her gaze would find Anubis, he was already staring at her. His eyes lit up immediately and his smirk would form to a wide grin.

“That is her, isn't it?”

Atem blinked slowly, wondering what Anubis was referring to until he followed his gaze and noticed Anubis would be staring at Kagome who was currently heading back to the palace.

No… He couldn't…!

“Theinen! Get me that girl, now!”

The booming voice from the god was heard and once the command was given, that great sphinx emerged from the portal with an ear piercing roar mixed with a bird's screech and began its descent, looking to capture Kagome.

“No!”

Atem immediately removed himself from Ishtar's side and would charge for Theinen but his path would be blocked by Anubis himself. He moved with great speed and using his forearm, he'd attempt to knock away the pharaoh from getting any closer. Atem held up his arms and blocked the attack, Ishtar crying out for Atem as he was sent flying back into one of the statues placed upon the four corners of the stage.

“Your opponent is me, Atem! Oh how long I have waited for this! You will die today!”

And soon Anubis' hand rose and commanded for his army of monsters and creatures to come forth and wreak havoc onto his kingdom.

Thousands of creatures would come out from that portal up above, many of them screaming and roaring to their hearts content as they were ready to slaughter all who stood in Anubis' path.

Atem rose from the rubble of the destroyed statue, looking unscathed and quite pissed. He wasn't going to hold back anymore. Atem's youki would flare greatly and consume his form as purple winds would pick up around him, swirling in one rapid wind. His body began to enlarge, those bones shifting beneath his flesh as the sounds of bones popping and reforming would be heard.

He was going to take his true youkai form.

Atem began to grow immensely, his body glowing a bright white light and that light elongated into one massive and long looking creature. Wings would sprout from its back, followed by appendages upon its forearms and legs upon the far lower half of its extremely long, whip length-like body. And the glow would dissipate when Atem's transformation was complete. What was a man that stood upon that stage would now be one long looking dragon, a serpent even, and that beast would be high above in the air with his wings spread out far and wide.

Burning yellow eyes, thick red colored scales and a black scaled underbelly—

Ishtar's hands clasped together and began to pray, “Please may Osiris watch over Atem.”

The dragon's lower jaws would part and bellowed out one deafening roar while its second mouth remained closed yet teeth would be bared at the enemies that rained from the portal up above.

Anubis who stood firmly at the ground grinned widely as Atem took his true form. The Red Slifer dragon.

And that loud beast roared out again, flames spewing from its gaping maw as it would render most of Anubis' army that poured through that portal but only the weak one's would perish to Atem's flames. All those who managed to withstand the dragon's fiery breath would be seen raining down onto the city below and that's when Anubis grinned widely, rising up his arms.

“Kill all of those who dare stand in my way! But do not harm the girl!”

And when those words were given, Anubis' horde of monsters would rain down several attacks to the city below, destroying everything in their wake. People began to scatter, screaming out for help as they'd tried to get to safety. The blue eyed white dragon, Kisara, would be providing as much protection as she could from the onslaught of the enemy, Freed as well within his Emerald dragon form, shielding the townsfolk from the attacks of those monsters that began their descent.

Back at the palace was already hectic enough.

Theinen, The Great Sphynx, was on the way for Kagome who was currently running with Lakoya to head back into the palace, their guardian's right behind them, fending them off of the monsters and creatures that dared to attack them.

Sesshoumaru and his mighty sword, Bakusaiga, was already drawn and he'd continuously slay down those enemies that came forth, one after another. Inuyasha held Tessaiga in his hands firmly as well, also protecting Kagome from harm as they were making their way back into the palace. Atem's guards' were providing them back up if need be.

The enemies were endlessly rushing at them without a care in the world, hoping to fulfill Anubis' dream in taking over this world, starting with Atem's kingdom.

Theinen landed several feet away from the main group and roared out loudly, summoning his own lesser beasts to drive the attention of Kagome's guardians away from her.

Two large sphinxes would emerge out from the ground before Theinen, up heaving the earth and ruined that pathway as dirt and debris would kick up, knocking over some of the statues that were placed upon that path. Theinen pointed ahead and immediately those two sphinxes that resembled a miniature Theinen would charge straight ahead, one aiming for Sesshoumaru and the other would aim for Inuyasha.

Sesshoumaru simply stood his ground and raised his weapon high before using his speed and would slice that Sphinxes' head clean off from its shoulders. Inuyasha would do a similar approach, however, his Kaze no Kizu would slice through the sphinxes' shoulder, leaving a deep, blood gushing wound.

Just when they thought they defeated those creatures, the two `slain' sphinxes would slowly gather to their feet when they had been just downed and in second their injuries were healed up. Sesshoumaru's eyes narrowed and Inuyasha growled lowly, “What the fuck!”

Kagome pointed towards Theinen, “It's from him! You must get to him first or else those creatures will keep regenerating!”

Theinen smirked at the girl that's poke and roared out a laugh, “You may think it will be easy but good luck trying to get through!”

Sesshoumaru would once again charge in for Theinen instead and when he had his weapon drawn to thrust into Theinen's chest, his sphinx summon would leap right in between them, blocking Sesshoumaru's attack from hitting the main creature and began to shove its massive body onto the DaiYoukai. Sesshoumaru growled out in annoyance. Seems like the Inu brothers were going to have some trouble… But they wouldn't back down now. They both knew Theinen couldn't keep up those summons up forever.

So while Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha busied themselves with the sphinx summons, the red dragon would be making his way for the group.

“Run, Kagome! We'll protect you!”

Kagome heard that voice. It was Asche!

Asche managed to make it in time to the palace gates where Kagome would be with Lakoya. But if Asche was here, where was Aria?

Kagome's eyes took to the skies and found Aria currently in battle in the sky with the enemy. Another large creature would be fighting against her, another large, grotesque looking dragon that looked to be decaying. Bones and rotting flesh would be seen upon its large body, the creature looking just as large as Aria herself when in dragon form. She looked to have her hands busy in fending it off but she tried her hardest to keep her friends safe.

Asche's heavy footfalls would be charging for Kagome but he skidded to a halt when another beast would make its appearance before Asche, blocking him from getting to the girl. It was Hieracosphinx, another one of Anubis' main guards. It was just as large as Asche and was prepared to do battle with the dragon.

Every time Kagome's saviors came to her aid, they'd be stopped by another. Why was this?!

Was there a reason for this? They had to be planning something but none of them knew what.

Kagome would continue onto the palace and knew her companions would be okay in fending off of the enemy. All Kagome could hear would be roars, screams, shouts, growls and snarls, fights happening all around her as Anubis was making his claim onto the city. A few bit of Atem's guards managed to escort Kagome and Lakoya back into the palace but a painful cry would be heard from one of the guards that was trailing along with them.

Both girls screamed out in horror when the guards' body was thrown with such force, it formed a crater into one of the stone pillars beside the entrance into the palace.

Theinen leapt passed those gates and the only thing that stood in his way to get the girl would be just the remaining four of the pharaoh's guards. They vowed to protect her, even if it costed them their life.

Where were Sesshoumaru and Inuyasha?! Were they still held up by those beasts?!

Theinen grinned widely, “And now I have you, girl.” The great sphinx began charging for Kagome, those guards standing firm at their ground but they could not stop the rampaging sphinx as they were trampled. Kagome and Lakoya fell to their feet when the earth shook form Theinen's heavy footsteps as he'd approach the two girls. He would eye them both with one sickening grin that churned Kagome's stomach horribly.

“Kagome, run!”

Kagome's eyes widened when Lakoya stood and raised up her hands, quickly erecting a barrier to block any attacks Theinen would send towards the two. And he attacked them, his summoned blades of steel aiming for the two but Lakoya managed to beef up her defenses as she concentrated in blocking those attacks. But Kagome knew this girl could not hold out for long.

What was she doing?!

“No! It's too much, just run!”

Lakoya shook her head, “I can't. I know they are after you, Kagome. It is why they are trying to wear us down and get to you!”

Kagome gasped. They were after her?! Why? “But I cannot leave you here!”

Lakoya was going to shout back to the miko but Theinen roared out which ruined Lakoya's concentration and she gave a pained gasp when one of his blades managed to pierce through her barrier and even though it did not strike her, the impact to the ground was enough to send her flying. Kagome could only watch in horror as he friend was blown away some feet into the air behind her, crashing onto some rubble.

Now it was just her and Theinen and he was ready to haul her ass back to Anubis as he had ordered.

Could Kagome defend herself?! She needed her bow! It was back in her room… Why the hell didn't she bring it with her!? Then again, who would have thought this invasion would have happened!?

She began to back away from the approaching Theinen and all he did was grin at her, his eyes widening once he got close. “Don't come any closer you freak!”

Theinen ignored her words and a large hand quickly shot out and Kagome's eyes shut tight, hoping he wouldn't grab her but nothing came. She heard a pained cry that came from the great sphinx himself and when her eyes opened, she saw that Theinen's wrist had been seized by massive jaws of another beast.

She knew this beast… That couldn't be him, could it?!

“Husani?! Have you gone mad?! This is treason!” Theinen glared angrily at the Jackal headed beast that had his wrist in his jaws, stopping Theinen from getting to Kagome. That's when Thienen's other arm would raise and bring his fist down onto Husani's face. Husani removed his jaws from his wrist and managed to roll back away in time to avoid getting hit and placed himself beside Kagome as he crouched down, shielding her from the sphinx.

Theinen couldn't believe it. Why was he helping her?! Did she somehow place a spell on Husani for him to go against him? Go against Anubis?!

Kagome was just as equally surprised as the shinx, her blue eyes looking up at Husani's face as he growled low and bared his teeth at the sphinx like one rabid dog.

“Husani? Why?”

Husani heard Kagome's voice and even he found himself questioning the same thing. Why was he saving Kagome? He was going to perish for going against Anubis but for some reason, he just couldn't bare seeing this girl in the clutches of Anubis. Just knowing her for one night changed him so fast…. Why?!

“I will hold him off, Kagome. You must run and get away from here.”

Kagome heard that ancient tongue and it was indeed Husani. The youkai she healed up a week ago. He had come to her aid! She felt relieved but she feared he may be of no match to this powerful sphinx before him.

Theinen was furious. “Fine! Then if you wish to protect the girl then you will pay with your life for going against Anubis!” Those strong arms of his raised and began to summon those poisonous blades that he struck Husani with some days ago but this time, Husani was prepared.

“Go, Kagome! At least let me repay for what you've done for me!”

Kagome felt absolutely horrible. She was going to leave him here to die, she was certain, and she did not want that. She wanted to help. She wanted to save him and all of her companions that came to her help. Kagome struggled to get to her feet and gave Husani one last look before disappearing into the stone fortress of the palace.

Now he gave Theinen his full attention as he summoned those blades, preparing his attack.

“I've wanted this for so long, Theinen. You've been nothing but a thorn in my side and now I will rid you!”

Theinen barked out a laugh, “Hah! Let's see if you can even out run my blades of poison!”

And so the epic battle between sphinx and jackal commenced. The two beasts, one that fought for Anubis and one that went against Anubis, were almost evenly matched yet Husani pulled out to be the strongest one here as he had resolve. He had something to fight for, something to protect and managed to get the upper hand on Theinen. But the sphinx was the troubled one because as he focused on his fight against Husani, his sphinx summons that were up against Inuyasha and Sesshoumaru had dispersed over time.

The Inu brothers didn't know why but they did not stick around to find out. Sesshoumaru immediately headed for the palace once the sphinx summon he fought had dissipated into nothingness and as for Inuyasha, well…

This was the perfect time to leave and revive Kikyo.

Inuyasha sheathed away his sword and pulled out that charm that dark miko made for him, slipping away from the battlefield discreetly, hoping no one would be watching him or finding him.

He ducked around one corner, running towards the platform where the large portal would be in the sky, spirits and other sorts of creatures coming forth.

Atem and Anubis would be doing battle in the skies now, Inuyasha catching a glimpse of those two beings going at it as they fought to the death. It wasn't any of his concern right now. His objective was to revive Kikyo. He knew she was strong enough to pass through the door and now, all he had to do was find her soul.

When Inuyasha made it into the streets, the many buildings, shops and stands were mostly destroyed under the attack of the demon horde, some dead bodies of the citizens seen upon the streets, women and children included. He grimaced but did not press on further, he was looking for that one soul.

Down one alleyway, Inuyasha stopped in his tracks when he felt a familiar presence near. He knew this aura, this reiki. It belonged to her! To Kikyo. But where was she?! That hanyou began to look around, gazing up at the night filled sky for long moments, searching frantically. Then he decided to climb up that stone building, making it to the top and from here he could see most of the city in the distance, nothing but battles happening all around. Aria in the sky still fighting that zombified dragon, Kisara and Freed going toe to toe with one large snake beast and Asche was currently spewing out hot flames from his jaws as he fought Hieracosphinx.

It was one war zone this city turned out to be.

“Inuyasha…”

An ethereal voice would call out to the hanyou's name and he gasped, his head whipping around to find one large swirl of light some feet away behind him ontop of that roof with him. He knew that voice. It was… Kikyo. His beloved Kikyo.

He could feel the warmth that came from that soul and knew it was hers.

Inuyasha lifted that charm in his hand and gazed at it for long moments, almost looking like he had second thoughts about all this.

Should he do it?! …But she would help in fending off of the demons, would she not?

Inuyasha looked up from the charm to gaze back at that swirling light and bit his lip. No, he had to do this. They had been planning all of this for the past six to eight months now. No turning back.

Inuyasha took one step forwards and raised that charm as he approached the spherical light, slowly moving his hand forwards until the charm glowed blue and floating away from his hand and was now placed before the swirling light that held Kikyo's soul. In seconds, that ball of light would grow bigger, the charm starting to fade away in time with the light.

Inuyasha's amber eyes widened greatly when he saw the light fade and soon the body of Kikyo would appear, full and in the flesh. Naked flesh. Eyes would be closed once she fully arrived into the land of the living, her body afloat but bare feet would touch the stone ground of that roof but the moment she landed, she began to fall. Quickly Inuyasha disrobed his haori and caught Kikyo in his arms, feeling her warmth.

It worked… It actually worked! Kikyo was alive and in the flesh. He could hear her steady heartbeat, her breathing and the softness of her skin when he tenderly stroked her cheek. That light action was enough to have Kikyo open up her eyes slowly, her vision quite blurred but soon would fixate on the face of Inuyasha as he gazed down at her with concern and happiness.

“Inuyasha? Is that you?”

A hand would slowly reach to touch his cheek and Inuyasha grasped her hand gently in his hold, raising her warm hand to his face. Tears would form in Kikyo's eyes when she felt his warmth upon his cheek and couldn't believe she was alive again. She smiled brightly when he gave a nod of his head in conformation that it was in fact him. Now Kikyou had a real body this time. No more clay, no more coldness. Fully warm and pristine colored skin.

Inuyasha immediately hugged Kikyo close and she smiled brightly, her arms slowly rising to wrap around him in a light felt hug.

He did it. He revived Kikyo. She was back and that was all he wanted.

Their hug didn't last long as he pulled away, the hanyou gazing at her face, “We aren't safe here. I need to get you to safety.”

Kikyo already knew what was going on. Anubis was making his stand and this city was already a battlefield that will turn out to be a war soon enough.

Kikyo nodded her head and Inuyasha scooped the girl up onto his arms, now heading for the Palace. It was the only place where she would be safe. The other thing was… How the hell was he going to explain this to Kagome?!

She was going to be pissed. So, so, so pissed.

As the hanyou hurried back to the palace, Theinen was gradually being weakened by both Husani and Sesshoumaru as they fought the shinx.

Husani was hurt badly though as he underestimated Theinen's power. Sesshoumaru took over the fight when Husani `tagged out' and so, the DaiYoukai easily dealt with Theinen since he was already withered down from the fight.

Before Sesshoumaru dealt the final strike, an arrow whirred through the air in a pink stream of light, striking Theinen in the back of the head and his eyes widened immensely at the holy power that struck him. He couldn't even turn his head to see who had done so because that arrow exploded into a bright pink light and Theinen was now headless.

His arms slumped and that great sphinx fell ina defeated heap before the palace gates.

The owner of that bow? None other than Kagome who stood firm and angrily at the defeated pile of Theinen.

She placed her bow down and quickly ran for Sesshoumaru, “Quickly, we must save the others! Ashe and Aria may need our help.”

When she caught up with Sesshoumaru, she looked to the side then around him and then gazed back. “Wait… Where is Inuyasha?”

His half-brother? Was he not here just fighting alongside him earlier? “Really?! He would disappear at a time like this?”

Kagome was beginning to worry. He was okay, right? She was sure he was fine but this worried feeling was bothering her.

A low annoyed growl was heard and Kagome's head turned to the source, finding Husani propped up against a statue in his human form. Kagome's eyes widened and quickly ran over to him but he would quickly hold up a hand to stop her from coming near, “You must save your friends. Do not worry about me.”

Kagome frowned when she stopped, “But you are my friend, aren't you?”

Husani gave a low chuckle when he heard her. A friend. To think his first friend would be this maiden. Husani stood but he used that broken statue as support, “It seems so… But you must go, Kagome. I will help those in need here. Go, quickly…”

Kagome looked him over and knew he was hurt but wasn't sure how much damage was done to him. She gave him a nod and would be heading out of that gate with Sesshoumaru beside her.

While the two rushed for that platform on that damaged path littered with debris, Kagome caught movements in the far distance to her right. She saw a flash of red… Wasn't that Inuyasha!?

She stopped and seen the hanyou leap repeatedly, making his way for the palace and she quickly raised up an arm, waving at him to get him to come over. Lips parted and was about to shout his name but what she saw is what stopped her.

No, he couldn't…!

She had seen Inuyasha carry someone but that someone looked so familiar. She could sense their weak aura immediately and knew this aura. This reiki… It was her.

Kikyo.

Kagome felt her entire world freeze in time with eyes widening and all she could hear was her heartbeat. It pounded loudly in her ears as she watched the hanyou in the distance carry Kikyo in his arms with his haori wrapped around her, making his way for the palace. Inuyasha couldn't even see her nor sense Kagome with all the rubble and smell of death all around.

When Inuyasha was out of her peripheral view, time began to flow again for Kagome and her heart felt crushed. She almost forgot how to breathe. A shaky hand would reach to clutch her heart but all she could gather was the fabric of her miko garb she wore. Kagome's eyes slowly dropped down to the ruined floor and felt the tears form in her eyes.

No… no! He couldn't have done that. Why?! Why would he do that to me?! Why would he do that… to us?!

Sesshoumaru caught everything and already knew what happened.

Inuyasha was carrying that dead miko. Well, she wasn't dead anymore. She was alive and Sesshoumaru did not know how or why she was alive but she was the main reason why Kagome was having a mental break down.

But this was not the time to have one.

“Miko.”

Kagome's eyes slowly blinked when Sesshoumaru's voice was heard but she did not look at him. She didn't even have the power to.

“You came here for a purpose. Do not wallow in despair over nothing. Your companions need your help, do they not?”

Yes, he was right… She was here to save her friends. But… Inuyasha reviving Kikyo… It was going to be stuck in her mind all fucking day. Could she even focus while saving her friends?!

Kagome gripped tightly onto her bow and her quiver strap, teeth gritting tight and her aura flared up so much that Sesshoumaru could visibly see the pink and purple colors that swirled and outlined her form. This miko was angry.

Kagome sharply inhaled air through flared nostrils, “I will deal with Inuyasha later. First comes saving everyone.”

Her head raised and again she would rush back towards the platform with Sesshoumaru pacing beside her once again, but soon the scent of tears would be caught in the wind.

Amber hues gazed at the side of Kagome's head and while he could not see her face, he knew she was crying yet she managed to run as fast as those legs could carry her to save her dear friends.

It was downhill from here on out.