Phew! This chapter took me sooooo long to finish! I had to actually make a decision whether to split it or continue and because I wanted to update, you can guess what I did. LOL. BEfore we start, I'd like to once again thank my new friend samy-sama for giving me so much feedback and support. If it wasn't for her, I wouldn't be squealing like a fangirl right now. This is my tenth chapter and I'm more thna proud of how this story has progressed. In samy-sama's words, it's "delicious" hehehe. Anyways onwards!

Chapter 10: Discovery

Kimara & Sesshomaru

"Oh Kami." Kimara whispered, fear grasping her heart.

Oh she wasn't afraid of being stuck in between the two dimensions. Hell, she wasn't even afraid of never getting out of here. But, what did bother her was the fact that a certain demon was watching her. It was very unnerving. She couldn't even fathom what was happening. MAybe two people couldn't be in the well at one time and they'd disrupted the flow.

"W-where are we?" she stuttuered.

Sesshomaru turned his attention away from her as he took in his surroundings. This atmosphere seemed vaguely familiar. It reminded him of that time he'd gone to the underworld in order to save Rin.

'They do seem similar.' he thought.

Tenseiga pulsed at his hip. What did the sword wish for this time? To save the human woman? To protect him? He couldn't fathom the reason for its pulsing as he drew the blade from its sheath. It was colored with the meido. Without another thought, he slashed at the air and the meido opened completely to reveal the sky.

'I shall grant you this power one last time, Sesshomaru.' said Tenseiga.

Rushing forward, he grabbed Kimara by the waist and leaped out of the meido. Sesshomaru landed on his feet and kimara fell to her knees in relief.

"I thought we'd be stuck there." she breathed, "Thank you for saving me."

When she looked up, he was already walking away. "We have already been delayed." he said, "You will be left behind."

Kimara glared at his retreating was just so rude! People had no manners in this Era!

Inuyasha

The heated Hanyou made his way into the forest and took a time to think as he walked. Why in the world would the court contact him now? In the past, they'd wanted nothing to do with him because of his human blood. So why?

He couldn't even begin to think of what his father would've done. Hell, he who would want to tell the Great Dog General that his marriage to his mate was not allowed? He was sure nobody would've stood in his way but right now this was another story altogether. How would this Court take away what was his?

Youkai Court

Ritsuka bowed before her superiors. She had returned early that morning and had delivered the message to the court. And now, she was awaiting to hear what they would say. She watched closely as each member of the court read the letter. There were very mixed emotions.

"Who does the boy think we are?" growled Lord Minoru.

A laugh, like shattering glass echoed throughout the room. Ritsuka winced as the sound hurt her ears. That laugh could only belong to one person. The men of the court looked to one of the female Elders. She was actually the youngest Elder, a young woman.

"That boy is his son after all. I don't see why you're all so surprised." she said in humor.

Seiji, a bear demon did not like her tone. "Do you think this is a joking matter, Setsuna?"

The girl giggled once more much to everyone's aggravation. "Of course not." she said with a smile.

It was clear that she had other things on her mind. That man was absolutely delectable. And she coudn't wait until he arrived.

Western Skies

Yura looked into the sky, the wind brushing against her skin. The castle was far behind them now. Jaken told her of the order Sesshomaru had given him. If Sesshomaru didn't return within an hour, they were to leave for the east and that he would meet them at the checkpoint near Sayome village.

Jaken had been melancholy, sighing every so often. It made her sometimes wonder whether he preferred males rather than females. The thought made her shudder.

"Yura?" came the quiet voice of Rin.

Rin looked back at her with curiosity swirling in her brown eyes. She turned back around and sighed before asking her question.

"Lord Sesshomaru went to the well didn't he?" she questioned.

The older woman was taken back by her words. Had she heard their conversation that night? Yura could feel the uncertainty in her thumping heartbeat and the quivering of her lip. Shippo also noticed the strange way Rin was acting.

"Is he going to kill her?" she questioned, not allowing Yura to answer her earlier inquiry.

Yura pulled at the reins and Ah-Un halted his flight. "What makes you think that Rin?" she questioned, "Where did you get such thoughts?"

Rin didn't turn around this time but kept her eyes ahead of her. "I've come to know that he trusts her with my protection." she said softly, "But I can sense that he only trusts her with that task alone. Why doesn't he instil the trust in her that he instill's within you?"

Yura looked at Rin and laughed. Rin couldn't believe it. She was laughing? This was not a joking matter.

"Trust me Rin, Sesshomaru's feelings are very complicated. They are even to a point where I, myself can't even guess what's going in that stubborn head of his."

Rin cocked her head to the side. Yura was speaking in an odd way. "Do you have feelings for Lord Sesshomaru?" she questioned.

Yura shook her head, a smile adorning her features. "Sesshomaru and I have been friends ever since his father's rule of the West.

Rin's eyes gleamed with awe as she nodded. Yura must've been remembering her past. In Rin's eyes she seemed happier when she talked of the past. Maybe her past was an escape from the present.

Sesshomaru & Kimara

The two had taken to the skies after leaving Musashi province. Sayome village wasn't very far but they needed to meet up with Yura and the others. He was sure she could protect Rin and the fox kit if danger arose. The quiet atmosphere unnerved him and actually struck curiosity within him.

Normally, he would feel at ease as Rin chattered about nothing in particular or if Jaken chided her for her silly actions. But since neither were present, he felt very odd. In addition, the human had not said a word since they'd left the well.

If anything, she seemed to be in a daze of sorts. It alarmed his inner youkai but Sesshomaru pushed the feeling back and out of his mind. Although he did so, he did sense that something was off.

Kimara looked at the earth below them. She enjoyed seeing the land beneath her as well as the refreshing breeze. Even though she'd tried to clear her head, her mind continued to become clouded. There were so many questions rattling around in her mind that went unanswered. Shuko, sensing her master's distress, voiced her displeasure.

The young woman stroked her fur in reassurance although the weariness in her eyes could not fool the fox demon.

"We should be arriving soon to meet the others." said a voice, breaking through her thoughts and bringing her out of her stupor.

Looking up, the young woman noticed him looking back at her over his shoulder. She simply nodded her head and continued to follow him as he proceeded forward.

Sango & Kagome

The two women had traveled away from the village two days ago in order to shop in the neighboring village. In addition, they'd also gone to the slayer's village at Kagome's request. Of course, Sango had honored her request since she'd already intended on visiting the village.

Now, after two days they were on their way back home. They had managed to borrow Kilala from Kohaku since he was currently visiting. Sango watched Kagome with curious eyes. She hadn't asked why Kagome decided to go to the Slayer's village. Her curiosity got the best of her as she caught up with her friend.

"Kagome, do you mind if I ask you a question?"

The miko looked to her best friend, more like sister. She could tell that something had been on her mind since they'd left her home village. She nodded. "Yes. What is it Sango?"

The Tajiya's eyes wandered to the bundle the miko held in her arms. "I just wanted to know why you requested those slayer uniforms. There were quite a few of them and I know you aren't going to wear them so I had to ask."

Kagome looked at her then to the bundle in her arms. "Well, I'm worried about my friend. Kimara may be strong but she's nowhere strong enough if she gets seriously injured. I also have my doubts about whether Sesshomaru will protect her or not."

"Ah, now I see. That does make sense. I understand but there's no telling when you'll see her again to give her those."

Kagome sighed. "You're right but I'm sure she'll pass through here soon enough."

The two had landed in the village and went into the small shopping district of town. Kagome saw the look of uneasiness swirling in her love's eyes. Miroku had taken Sango to the hut to give them privacy and promised he would explain properly what was going on.

"Kagome, I need to talk to you." Inuyasha said softly, turning toward the forest.

She nodded, following him into the forest. What could he want to talk to her about?

Sayome Village Outskirts

Rin laughed happily as she and Shippo played in the cool stream. The day had been a little warm since it was alittle past noon and this was the perfect way to cool down. Both Ah-Un and Jaken had been left to keep an eye on the children while Yura had gone into the village.

"You should come join us Ah-Un and master Jaken." she laughed, splashing water in their direction.

Jaken glared at them. "I can't believe that stupid woman." he fumed. "She should be the one to watch this child. I've watched her for three years already."

Ah-Un rolled his eyes at the dumb Imph. Even he was aggravated by his babbling at times. The dragon stood to his feet to shake the water from his body but almost abruptly turns toward the sky. He roared at something and Jaken looked into the sky to see two figures descending upon them. His annoyance vanished as he hopped around joyfully.

"Lord Sesshomaru!"

The Inu-youkai in question landed gracefully. Shuko landed swiftly next to Sesshomaru. Kimara hopped down, landing on top of Jaken. The Imph muttered in pain as he slipped from beneath her weight.

"My Lord!" Rin exclaimed, running over. "Kimara!"

Sesshomaru was actually relieved to see that Rin was okay and that Jaken, in all his stupidity was able to keep her safe. But Yura was nowhere to be found. Rin looked up at her lord with a bright smile.

"I hope you fared well my lord." she said with a bow.

He nodded then looked around to see that Yura was nowhere in sight. His golden orbs narrowed with suspicion

"Where is Yura?" he questioned.

Jaken nodded. " Aye Milord. Yura went into the village just a little while ago. She said she would be back soon."

While the two of them chatted, Jaken couldn't help but notice that the other human was silent. She was also wearing such weird clothing. He often wondered why Rin adored her so. It was beyond puzzling. Kimara squeezed Rin gently in their embrace as well as the kitsune she'd grown attached to. He was such a sweetie.

"Rin was a good girl while you were gone." she said, smiling a glowing smile as she pulled back.

Shippo climbed onto her shoulder and looked at the backpack she was carrying. It resembled the yellow one kagome wore but it wasn't as big and a wonderful aroma was emitting from it.

"There's a yummy smell coming from your bag." he said, hopping off her shoulder.

The young woman placed her bag on the grass and pulled something out of it. She then proceeded in unwrapping it to reveal a three tier bento box. Shippo glanced at it and grinned widely as the different compartments were placed on the picnic blanket. Even Jaken had become curious at what the delightful aroma was as he too joined them on the oddly colored fabric.

"There's so much! It all looks so yummy!"Shippo said as he picked up a pair of chopsticks.

Rin was awestruck. She'd never seen any of these dishes before. She was a bit wary but her rumbling tummy changed her mind as she began to eat. Kimara smiled, happy that they enjoyed it.

'Good thing I decided to bring so much. Maybe my anger isn't such a bad thing after all.'

Yura

Yura had been wandering through the village for a little bit now. Seeing how it was a demon village she was unsure if they would have what she was looking for. She sighed, shifting the bundle she already had in her arms. She'd managed to collect a few things like herbs and salves with different properties.

'This should be enough.' she thought. 'I'm sure Sesshomaru and Kimara have arrived already so I need to get back.'

"You there!" yelled a voice.

The voice wasn't intimidating nor was it a threat. It was probably just a villager and it wasn't even meant for her. Yura looked around but didn't see anybody who would've called out to her. Then she looked up to see a merchant waving her over. She usually wasn't one to fall for things like this but she could use some entertainment as she walked over to the booth. This man was selling armor and other such items needed for battle, not like she needed them.

"You're quite a fine young lady." he coaxed, "Wouldn't you be interested in some armor or a weapon?"

The young woman looked at what he had to offer. As her eyes traveled, something caught her attention. It was an outfit, somewhat similar to a Youkai Taijiya's. Her eyes literally sparkled with interest.

"I'll take that and the armor next to it." she said, "How much for them?"

The man grinned greedily as he held up a clenched fist, then he opened his hand to hold up all five fingers. Yura's eyes gleamed mischievously and she smiled a fang-revealing smile.

"I'm sure I can persuade you."

Inuyasha's Forest

Kagome followed Inuyasha into the deeper entwines of the forest. Why would he lead her all the way out here? Was whatever he had to talk about so important that they couldn't discuss it in front of the others? She slipped her hand out of his, causing him to turn around to face her. He was honestly scaring her as she grasped her chest in hopes of easing her thumping heart. Even so, her eyes didn't depict the slight fear that shook her but she could feel the rising tension.

The hanyou looked at her with swirling pools of Amber as he took his hand and sat her down against the tree. He followed suit. Kagome looked up at her husband as he scratched his head.

"K-Kagome." he said, never looking at her.

He bit his lip and Kagome gave him a smile, hoping to give him some encouragement. The hanyou took a deep breath then gently squeezed her hand.

"While you and Sango were away, A courier bearing the Court Crest came to the village." he began, feeling a bit lighter in spirit.

Kagome furrowed her eyebrows in confusion. What in the world was he talking about? "What court crest Inuyasha?"

Inuyasha sighed in frustration. It was already hard enough to tell her this as it was. Then she goes and asks a dumb question like that. Those "exams" must've made her stupider.

"What other crest is there, stupid?" he shot back. "The Crest of the Youkai Court!"

The Miko looked at him with hardened eyes and clenched teeth as she was ready to lash out at him with any ugly word she could think of. How could he get mad when she was trying to comfort him in his time of need. She opened her mouth to fire an insult but he quickly put a clawed finger to her lips.

"We've been summoned to the court because My marriage to you was illegal. It wasn't legal within the Youkai Bylaws."

Kagome grew even more confused. "W-why?" she questioned, "What's wrong with that?"

"That's all I know. The court didn't take well to me being born a half-blood so there was not much for them to discuss with me before now."

Kagome understood what he was saying. Their marriage had violated something within the Youkai Court and now they were taking action. Her hand went to her shoulder and her sapphire eyes held his golden ones.

"So this mark will mean nothing?" she questioned, her voice a ghostly whisper.

Inuyasha put a hand to her cheek and wiped away the tear that threatened to fall, being sure not to scratch her with his claws. He knew the subject would upset her but he would need to calm her down if were to continue.

"Kagome, understand that I need you to be strong." he whispered, "I would never jeopardize our relationship for some old bastards that think they know everything. I love you and only you."

He kissed her deeply and she returned it, putting her arms around his neck. She loved him with all her being and the proof of that love was etched into her shoulder as an emblem of the burning flame that was their passion. Both pulled back for lack of air and gazed into the other's eyes for a few moments.

"I'll stand by you." she said, "But I might just have to purify these 'old bastards'."

Inuyasha could only laugh as he helped her up and walked together with her back to the village. They had a long journey ahead of them.

Modern Era

Kiota was on his way to school, not happy to begoing in the first place. His grandparents had offered to accompany him but he'd roughly refused. He'd figured it was their fault that his sister had left. On that night she'd gone to the shrine, she'd come stomping back into the house screaming like a wild banshee. It became even more obvious earlier this morning when he'd gone downstairs to see the large breakfast and a note.

Flashback

Kiota had woken up early to get ready for school. He'd gone downstairs expecting his sister to be waiting for him as she would every morning since she'd come back. But when she wasn't there, his heart began to race. That was when he'd seen the note sitting on the kitchen counter. It was written in Kimara's pretty yet intricate way of writing kanji.

Dear kiota,

I want to apologize. I know I didn't get to say goodbye before I left, but I had something very important I had to do. But I don;t want you to fret over your big sister. I love you and will return to you very soon. Just understand that I had to do this. So dry your tears and wait for me because I will wait to see you.

Love you,

Kimara

PS:I already made your school lunch for the next few days as well as dinner. Grandfather doesn't need to destroy the kitchen for kami's sake.

The young boy quickly wiped the oncoming tears. Then he smiled. His big sister was scolding him even if though she wasn't there. He pressed the letter close to his chest and thanked the heavens for a wonderful sister like her then prayed that she would come back safe.

'Take care of yourself.' he said to no one in particular.

End Flashback

Kitoa looked into the sky and smiled. 'Come back soon, Onee-san.'

Kimara

Kimara watched as Rin took a nap, her head in her lap. Shippo was also resting on the lush grass beside her. She'd covered them with a small blanket and smiled at the scene. Rin had honestly taken to her and vice versa. Who wouldn't? She was a child with a dark past and needed to be showered with love and affection But would she be able to give it to her? Of course she would try but she wasn't sure how much longer until her debt was fully repaid and she was released as her caretaker.

Jaken watched the tender moment. Rin was smiling in her sleep, something of which he'd never seen her do. That stupid woman was actually doing something right for once. It still bothered him that she hadn't said much of anything. He turned to his lord who sat against the a tree, waiting for Yura.

"Milord, don't you think it's strange that she hasn't spoken?" he questioned, "Has she gone mute?"

At that moment, the bushes russled and Yura emerged. She gave a nod of acknowledgement to Sesshomaru and stepped on Jaken. She surveyed the area and found who she was looking for with a sleeping Rin in her lap.

The two were beneath a shady tree. She smiled, taking in the moment. Rin could truly be at peace with her and she wished that it was like this at all demonesss stopped her thoughts since she was getting far too ahead of herself.

She kneeled in front of the pair and gently shook Kimara from her light nap. Her violet eyes opened to see Yura's beautiful ones.

"Come with me for a moment." she said softly, not wanting to disturb the child.

Kimara gently moved from her lap and rested her head on the folded picnic blanket. She then got up and followed Yura not too far from their resting site. Sesshomaru had warned them that if they did not return in the next few minutes that they would be left behind.

Of course, Yura waved him off which had earned a growl of warning from him. Kimara couldn't help but be amazed. Once they were at a safe distance, Yura turned to her. She walked over and placed a bundle in her arms.

"I want you to put this on. I'm going back to help prepare everything so we can leave. When you're finished come back to the clearing." she said softly before leaving her in peace.

Kimara looked down at the bundle in her arms and uncovered it. It was some kind of clothing and even some armor. Whatever the reason, Yura felt it was essential for her and she had no intentions of questioning her decisions. She slung the clothing over a tree branch and then undressed behind the tree.

Sesshomaru had taken notice whenYura returned without the human woman. It made him even more irritated at how much time they had wasted already. He wanted to reach the Eastern lands before nightfall so he could speak with Hironori.

It was then that he could hear something in the distance. His ears and senses became alert, hearing the bushes russle with movement and he flexed his claws in case there was a need for battle. Judging by the scent, it was the human girl called Kimara. She stepped into the clearing and his inner youkai howled, wishing to be released. She was dressed in a suit somewhat similar to the Taijiya whome traveled with his brother.

It was black in color with Amethyst colored fabric adorning it in almost every area. The clothing was skintight, fitting her perfectly down to every curve. It had been designed with a splash of mainland flavor as it was sleeveless and had a type of chinese-influenced buttons near her chest.

An armored plate with a jewel-like substance at its core was at her waist, a amethyst colored sash-like cloth hanging from it which covered her pelvic area. A sash of the same color was wrapped around her waist and tied in a half-bow at her lower back. A thick heavy armored circlet was wrapped around her left and two thinner rings encircled her left upper arm.

More of the purple fabric ballooned loosely at her calf, reaching down to her ankles. For the finishing touches, a type of fingerless glove-like guard extended to her forearm and her hair was put into a high pomytai that reached her calves.

Jaken blushed at her beauty, This made her oddly appealing and he could feel himself getting aroused. Yura wrinkled her nose in disgust. The thought of jaken's arousal was sickening. It was like being exposed to the horrible scent of rotting meat. She surveyed Sesshomaru and knew she was right. His inner youkai was begging to come out just like she had predicted. It was true that the raging demon had taken a liking to the mortal woman. She sighed. It was a start at least.

Kimara blushed deeply and hurried to gather her things. After making sure she had everything, yura took her bag and secured it to Ah-Un's saddle so it didn't have to be carried. The young woman took rin into her arms and mounted Shuko while Yura had taken shippo in the same gesture and mounted Ah-Un. Sesshomaru gathered his demonic cloud at his feet and ascended into the sky, proceeding in his quest.

He'd managed to calm his demon to the point where he was now lightly growling in protest. He didn't understand why he'd reacted so and thus fueled his desire to reach the eastern lands before nightfall. He was seeking wisdom on the subject as he pulled out the medallion he'd taken from the human woman some time ago.

'Father, what does this all mean?'

Eastern Lands

The Eastern domain was preparing for a very important visit from the lord of the West. The Lady of the castle had ordered that everything should be perfect so that their company would be as comfortable as possible. Hironori had informed her of the humans that accompanied the young lord. Honestly, most demons frowned upon it but she looked past it. If he let humans travel with him, that was his bussiness and no ones else's.

The lady of the East found her husband's study and entered quietly, a tray in her hand. Her husband had been with guests from the neighboring lands and knew he was a bit stressed about dealing with the Youkai court as well as tend to his own lands. Her mate was busy talking when she'd entered but his attention was on her as she approached.

"I brought some tea for you and your guest." she said sweetly, in that beautiful voice he knew too well.

Hironori couldn't help but smile in amusement. "Just what are you doing, Kohana?"

The woman turned to him, waving the tray as if in an effort to dismiss his question. She wore a pouty look on her face in a way to tease him. "I stole this from the servant. She wasn't doing her job so I wanted to do it myself." she said matter-of-factly.

The minor lords in the room couldn't help but stare at the woman with wide eyes. Her beauty was something to be desired as she was more beautiful than any woman they'd seen. She'd held the previous position of princess of the Inuzuri clan, a very distinguished clan that ranked high. Her clan was only second to that of the Westen Taisho clan.

Only one could wonder why she'd chosen ot marry and leave such a powerful clan. She smiled, once she'd caught them looking at her. It was a smile that had a very deadly meaning though sweet in appearance. It was a smile used to tell males that she was already mated and did not take kindly to their staring.

Sesshomaru & Company

Sesshomaru had been sensing multiple demonic auras in the vicinity. At first, he'd ignored them, thinking they'd retreat at the flare of his own demonic aura. Instead they'd insisted on following them. Yura had also sensed the high number of youkai in the area.

"Yura." he said, flexing his claws.

She nodded, snapping Ah-Un's reins, telling him to descend. Shuko followed after when all of a sudden a lizard demon attacked from behind, grabbing hold to one of Shuko's tails. The fox howled in pain before attempting to throw it off but in the process she threw her master and Rin from her back. Yura sliced through the demon but only more closed in on them, leaving them unable to escape. When she thought about it, the attack was so odd. Lizard demons only attacked once provoked. Other than that, they were a peaceful species.

Shippo recognized the demons as a similar demon in which he'd battled to save a human girl to which he'd taken a liking to. He wondered if he could prove useful to his friends and even more, to Sesshomaru.

Sesshomaru aided on ridding them of these pests. They'd signed their own death warrants when they'd chosen to attack his pack. Out of the corner of his eye, he'd spotted Kimara in the midst of the chaos. She was holding onto Rin as they hurdled toward the ground, dead set on protecting the child. Kimara found a tree to land in as she reached out and caught hold of a branch so she could get to the ground safely without harming Rin. She swung over and hoisted herself onto the branch, setting the girl on a thick branch and against the tree so she'd be safe.

But call it bad luck or horrible misfortune that an even larger lizard demon appeared and knocked her to the ground. She'd landed on her back with such force that she just knew something was broken or shattered. Rin crawled to the edge of the branch, her eyes enlarged with horror.

"NO!" she cried out in anguish.

Sesshomaru had seen everything but neither he nor Yura could do anything because of these damnable pests. His demon blood was boiling in a fit of rage at those who had attempted to hurt his charge, his precious Rin. To add to his anger, these vermin had injured his pack members which sent him over the edge. The beast pushed through and surfaced,his form altering to that of his true form. He snarled, his acidic saliva forming as he attacked.

Yura had taken cover in the forest with the others. The demon had obviously been brought forth because its pack had been attacked and even worse, some of them were injured. Rin had been so she looked around, all of her friends were injured.

Yura had a bleeding arm. Ah-un had a gash at his shoulder. Shuko had large scratches along her back and even Jaken was injured. She'd even heard the disturbing scream of pain that accompanied the fall and was now in hysterics. Why wasn't she moving? Why was she just laying there as if she were...dead?

Her chocolate brown eyes grew large as images of the night her own family was murdered came to her mind. These people were her family now and the sight of them injured was more than she could bear. Tears filled her eyes and she screamed, trying to get rid of those memories. Yura tried to calm her but she only continued to cry and tremble with fear.

She got up in an attempt to run to the woman who she felt was her mother, a woman much like the mother that was taken away from her in a bloody raid of greed. How it had haunted her even after all these years, it was somehow freshly reburned into her memory only to torture her grieving mind. Yura grabbed Rin's kimono and pulled her back, stopping her from going out there in such an emotional state.

"HAHA-UE!" she screeched, tear stinging her eyes.

Yura couldn't bear to see Rin in such a state as she pulled her into her chest and let her cry.

"Calm down Rin." she whispered, "Don't be afraid as you approach."

She'd said that was Sesshomaru but she knew better than that. This beast was not the person whom she had grown up now that she thought about it, these demons weren't a formidable foe so why were they so powerful now? She then realized Shippo was nearby. He was a kitsune by nature and would be able to protect Rin.

"Shippo, go with her." she said.

The fox kit looked aound him to see that no one else was near. He was tremling as he pointed to himself.

"M-me?" he stuttered. "What am I supposed to do?"

Yura nodded again to his dismay. The kit still didn't like the idea of going into danger. "Protect her with your foxfire."

Shuko voiced her encouragement, her eyes boring intot he emerald ones of the young boy. She, as a fellow kitsune, wanted to build his confidence. Shippo felt a little stronger as he took Rin's hand into his own.

"I'll protect you, Rin-chan."

The clearing

Once the last of the vermin were gone, the large Inu-youkai turned it's attention to Kimara. She hadn't moved since the fall and he was concerned. He looked down as he towered over her, taking in the aroma that was her scent. It was even more wonderful than when smelled through Sesshomaru. She was a very interesting being to say the least.

Nudging her with his nose, he attempted to wake her. He whined and licked her cheek lightly, his acidic saliva gone. Still she did not wake. He lay down in defeat, her unmoving body between his paws. Not wanting to give up, he nudged her again.

The scent of life flared in his nostrils. The woman groaned then coughed but didn't open her eyes. Instead she put a hand to her forehead, somewhat in defeat.

"I'm so stupid." she muttered.

The large Inu cocked its head to the side in confusion. What did she mean? While he pondered the thought, his other half was dominating him for control. He took one last look at those he considered his pack before consenting to go back into a light dormancy.

Sesshomaru looked down at the young woman in confusion then to the clearing. The demons had been dealt with yet he felt something else had happened. Even as he tried to remember, something was blocking it. Though something had transpired, he felt as though his inner youkai had something to do with the destruction. But something else was bothering him.

There was this amazing taste within his cavern. It was pleasing to the palate and was unlike anything he'd tasted yet there was a problem. Just what was it? The taste was savory yet somewhat spicy and he found himself hungering for more. Then there was another problem. He didn't know where it had come from.

"Sesshomaru-sama!" a small voice yelled, "Sesshomaru-sama!"

He looked up to see Rin,Yura and both kitsune youkai running towards him. The larger of the kitsune's rushed forward, concerned for her master. Shuko licked her face to which she opened her eyes and smiled weakly, reaching up to pet her muzzle. Rin ,Yura and shippo joined them and yura helped her to sit up. It was clear she was in discomfort but she never voiced it.

"I'm sorry." she said softly, "I caused trouble because I'm not feeling well."

Her words brought a sudden realization to Yura. She now knew the the reason behind those rather ferocious lizard demons. They had been in a blood rage, follwing the scent of Kimara's impending heat or as the humans say, "period of vulnerability." How had she not scented such an aroma? Better yet, why hadn't Sesshomaru?

Inuyasha & Kagome

The couple had set off for the East not long after their conversation in the forest. Their friends and family had sent them off with love and encouragement. In fact, they'd run into Hachi who was going in the same direction they were. The raccoon dog offered to give them a ride since traveling on foot would be long and probably more dangerous. The couple was in deep thought as they succumbed to the chiling winds.

This wasn't just any Castle they were going to. They were going into unknown territory, a battlefield if you would. And there was no telling what would happen. They could be seperated for eternity and forced to relquish their bond as Husband and wife. But Inuyasha would not let that happen, no matter what they would try. He would fight for his wife; his friend; his eternal soul mate. He loved her too much for someone to take her away.

Kagome's thoughts were almost in sync with her mate's as she looked into the sunset. She would be ready to fight for the love she had for not only Inuyasha but for his sanity. Without her, he would no doubt go into a rage at being unable to continue on without her in his life. And she would probably go into that same rage, having been bonded to him.

She couldn't help but be curious about the Lord of the East. After seeing what an ass Sesshomaru was, she was beginning to have her doubts. She even doubted that Inuyasha knew much of anything considering what he'd told her.

"How do you think this will turn out?" she questioned.

Inuyasha looked back at her and sighed. "To be honest Kagome, I couldn't tell you. From what I can tell, their a bunch of stubborn old fools."

the young priestess nodded. "Well." she said, pushing up her sleeve and holding her arm in a victorious pose, "We'll have to go in fighting."

Forest

Sesshomaru had decided that they would rest for a bit since his pack was more than fatigued after that battle. They would also restock on water as well as dress any wounds that were sustained. Yura had agreed that they have a short rest in order to recoup a little energy for the remainder of their excursion. The demoness had taken Kimara a little further into the forest so she could properly see to her wounds without frightening the children.

Kimara removed the top half of her clothing so Yura could look at her back. She'd insisted on looking at it to see how much damage had been done considering the harsh impact. Of course, she'd tried to argue but Yura had manage to convince her. Yura stared at her companion in confusion. She could see the dark discolored skin but some odd white thing was in the way. She'd never seen anything like it.

"Could you please remove this strange object?" she whispered, the strange thing frustrating her.

They teenager turned to Yura, the blood rushing to her cheeks. "Do I have to?"

To her dread, Yura nodded her head. "I need to examine you properly."

Kimara sighed, the blush still evident as she unclasped the bra and cast it aside so all of her back was visible. Yura then moved her hair over her shoulder so she had a clear view. It was actually worse than she thought. The skin that surrounded her spine was badly bruised and she knew the tissue had been damaged as well. She wasn't a healer but she knew enough that it wasn't supposed to look like that.

'I'll just have to do what I can.' she thought as she found the salve she'd bought earlier.

She first cleaned the area with a wet cloth that had been soaked with an herbal mixture that would disinfect the area. Kimara hissed in pain, her fingers digging into the earth as she doubled over, trying to withstand knew her words rang false when she had said that she wasn't in any pain. Who wouldn't be? After a fall like that, she was curious as to how she survived at all.

"You brought this upon yourself girl." said a voice.

Yura turned her head to see Sesshomaru standing on the other side of the tree. She shook her head at his actions. He didn't need to start with her right now. For all she knew, it could make it worse.

"Sesshomaru, stop it." she said, never looking up as she dug something out of her bag.

Yura applied a salve that would help with the pain and irritation. It would help until she was able to see a healer within the Eastern Castle. They would surely know what to do. As she bandaged her companion's torso and upper body, she was growling in frustration. Sesshomaru was still present behind the tree and this was only the beginning of his insults.

"If you're going to whine like a whelp when injured, I suggest you leave." he siad, "I can't have someone like you weighing us down. You will only be extra baggage that this Sesshomaru does not need."

Kimara stood on shakey legs and went over to him, her anger at its highest point. Yura called after her but she ignored her. Her violet eyes were dark with hate and anger was burning in her aura as she looked at him. She raised her hand to slap him but he caught her wrist.

"You think I asked for this?" she screamed, spreading her hand to him which was covered in her blood.

"Do you honestly think I wanted to do this?" she roared, "To shed my blood and put the one life I have on the line for your bidding? To please you?"

The inu-youkai's eyes narrowed at her tone. Who did she think she was talking to? "This Sesshomaru..."

"SHUT UP!" she snarled.

The children heard her angry screams and came into the clearing, followed by Jaken and Shuko, who's fur stood on end with ferocity. Yura pulled the children away from the scene. She didn't want them hearing more than they needed.

"I'm sick and tired of being treated with such inferiority." she whispered, "To be treated without an ounce of respect as if I'm a slave...I BELONG TO NO ONE!"

Sesshomaru simply stared at her. No emotion. No indication that he actually cared. Just a cold glare that he usually gave her, hardened with annoyance.

"You've been manipulating me ever since the beginning." she whsispered, fooling Sesshomaru into thinking she had calmed, "And I was stupid enough to go along with it!"

She'd pulled her left arm back in an attempt to punch him. Sesshomaru simply sidestepped her, her hand contacting with the tree. The large tree snapped in half and fell down from the force. Kimara was panting hard since her reflexes had slowed due to her injuries. It was then that she felt a pressure in her lower abdomen, causing her to fall to her knees as she clutched her stomach.

"What's wrong?" Yura exclaimed, kneeling beside her and placing her hands on her shoulders.

It was a crippling pain she knew all too well. The pressure bcecame more intense and she could feel her stomach flip flop in protest. She covered her mouth and ran to find a bush or the taiyoukai would be wearing her lunch as an ensemble. Yura followed after her, glaring at sesshomaru as she went.

The young lord of the west scented an aroma. He recognized it as a female in season. It was heavenly and it beckoned him, reaching his beast but he would not go into a rage so easily. He would not fall prey to the scent that most demons sought out. And he, the Great Sesshomaru, was not one of those demons.

And I decided to leave it there! I had much more but the next chapter will be a short one in order accomadate for what i couldn't put into this chapter because of its length. Sorry samy-sama. Hope you can forgive me. What is in store for our heros as they enter into the Eastern lands? What will the court proclaim and what will be the verdict?

Stay tuned for chapter 11: Onto the battlefield and Into the fire

See you soon,

Emikosakura27