~Special Announcement~ Today's chapter is dedicated to: All my amazing readers! I love you guys so much!

Disclaimer: I do not own either one of these great manga/anime. Red River belongs to Chie Shinohara and Inuyasha belongs to Rumiko Takahashi.

Summary: All Kagome has ever wanted was for the Well to reopen so that she could return to her first love, Inuyasha. But the Fates had different plans for when. After she was forced to try to forget her life in the Sengoku Jidai, Kagome rejects Hojo's confession of love to her and ran when he got forceful. Then something happened, she was pulled down into a lake by the Queen of the Hittite's to be sacrifice for a Katashiro.

Before the queen could do so, she is saved by the Third Prince – Kail Mursili and became his concubine and then the incarnate of Ishtar, Goddess of Beauty and War. Now, she must fight her way back home as well as whatever the Fates throw at her.

As Fate Would Have It

There was a stunned silence for a long moment as the happy couple continued to embrace. Nothing in this world could shatter their happiness. Kail and Kagome were going to be a family. It did not matter that they would have to wait another year or two until Kagome could become Queen. All that mattered was the life that was growing within the warrior miko. Their baby was the only thing that matters.

"Congratulations!"

Kail pulled away from Kagome briefly to see Rusafa on his knees before them. "Eh?" was his intelligent reply.

Rusafa raised his head as a joyous smiled tilted at his lips. "On this joyous event, Your Majesty."

"Yes," Kash said, nodding his head. "That's right! A most joyous event!"

"Congratulations, Your Majesty! Congratulations, Princess Kagome!"

Hadi raised her hands to her chest, her lips spread into a large smile as she gushed. "As His Majesty's firstborn, the child may as well be the heir to the throne!"

Kikkuri started to leave the room to prepare for the inevitable proclamation that he knew that his best friend would want to declare. "Yes! It will be cause for a nationwide celebration! Let's issue a proclamation!"

Panic suddenly rose in Kagome's chest. They were still at war with Nakia and her baby was still growing within her. She'd have to be twice as cautious as she is now to be able to protect both. Her fingers clenched in the material of Kail's tunic and she flashed worried eyes at him. "Kail..." she whimpered out.

Kail caught on quickly and stopped his loyal servant. "Hold on, Kikkuri! Until the baby is born, Kagome and I want its existence kept strictly secret." When everyone asked why, Kail's eyes narrowed. "One word - Nakia. If she found out, I would despair of Kagome's and the child's safety. She has in no way abandoned her ambition of placing her son, Juda, on the Hittite throne. You all know quite well what she has done to Kagome in the past in pursuit of this goal." He reached out and grabbed a silent Kagome's hand, squeezing it gently. "If she learns of this pregnancy, she will become even more desperate and vicious."

"So, can you please keep quiet about this?" Kagome asked, one her hands covering her stomach protectively.

The others crossed their fists over their hearts. "Absolutely!"

The news that Kagome was going to be pulled from the frontline soon spread throughout the base. All the soldiers began to wonder why their fierce and strong commander was withdrawing from the lines. They knew that it was a requirement for her to serve in the frontlines to become their queen. One heard that Kagome would still be participating in the war just focusing on the logistics while Kail commands the frontlines.

The soldiers smiled between themselves as they deduced the reason was that Kail was so deeply in love with Kagome that he doesn't want to expose her to danger. There was a brief silence before they erupted into laughter. The warriors knew that the miko would skin the Emperor alive if that was the real reason why he was pulling her away from such an important battle. They then thought it to be a strategic ploy on the Emperor's part. Now that sounded more reasonable.

Back in the palace, Kagome was preparing to head to Mali's palace to be seen by a royal physician about her pregnancy. She was chatting animatedly with Hadi about what she would like to take. Nodding her head when the older woman asked of those two large chests was everything she planned to take to Carchemish. A small chest resting on her dresser caught her eyes and she went over to grab it. "I'd like to take this too, Hadi-san." She picked up the chest, grunting slightly at the weight of it. This chest must have all her headdresses in it, including her favorite jeweled headbands.

"Kagome!" Kail's voice called out from above her head. "I told you not to lift anything heavy!"

The miko glanced over her shoulder and stuck her tongue out at her lover. "I'm pregnant not injured or disabled, Kail." She handed the chest to Hadi and decided to have a little fun with Kail. She took off in a sprint, giggling when her went into a panic, ordering her not to run. Kagome stopped when Kail ran down the stairs and placed his hands on her shoulders.

"Be careful or you could hurt yourself!" The Emperor commanded as he scooped his princess into his arms. "Aren't you cold? Wrap up!" He carried her to the bedchamber and placed her on the bed, wrapping her up with the thick blanket and placed many pillows around her. He took a step back to admire his work. Kagome and their child would be safe if she stayed right there on the bed where nothing can harm her.

Kagome sat in the middle of the bed, her eyebrow twitching. Kail had wrapped her up so tightly in the thick blanket that the priestess felt like a mummy. While she appreciated Kail's enthusiasm about her and their unborn child's safety, this was starting to get quite annoying. "Kail..." she breathed out his name, as she tried to cool her temper. "I understand you want to keep me and our baby safe, but we are also trying to keep my pregnancy a secret and the way you're fretting is going to give it away."

Kail sighed as a blush spread over the bridge of his nose from his embarrassment. He knew that he was acting worse than lioness with her cubs, but he could not help it. Kagome was pregnant with his first child. The woman he loved was carrying his seed within her nurturing womb. He wanted to hide her away from peering eyes and love them both until their child was brought into this world and even then, he did not want to expose them to the world until all the dangers were resolved.

"I'm sorry, Kagome, but please just take it easy until you reach Carchemish, alright." He said, his blush deepening when the soft chuckles of the other occupants of the room reached his ears.

Mali placed his hand on his brother's shoulder and grinned up at him. "Don't worry, Brother ...I mean Your Majesty." He chuckled at the expression on his older brother's face as he held up his other hand. "I promise to protect Princess Kagome from any dangers during the trip. She'll be treated like a queen at my palace, and there won't be a whisper about the pregnancy."

Kagome turned her dark blue eyes up to her love and wiggled one of her hands out of the tightly wound blanket, placing it on his chest. "See, Kail?" she said in a sweet voice, smiling softly at him as she leaned up on her knees to kiss his lips gently. "I'll be fine, Koishii."

Kail returned her gentle kiss with one of his own. "I'm truly in your debt, Mali." He wrapped his arms protectively around Kagome, hugging her closely as he inhaled her sweet scent. Happiness swelled in his chest as he thought about his growing family. An heir. Kagome was going to provide him an heir. He so truly hoped that the child would have her beautiful, expressive dark blue eyes or even her luscious raven hair. "It is fortunate we found out about this in Ugarit." he sighed out.

Kikkuri nodded his head. "In Hattusa, we'd have to be on guard against Nakia's numerous eyes and ears."

The miko frowned briefly as she remembered that she was being pulled from the frontlines due to her condition. "Kail..." she muttered as she began to unravel the thick blanket, she was wrapped up in. "I am happy for us, I truly am. But I can't help but to feel pissed that I cannot fulfill the pledge I made to the senate and Nakia will be within her rights to say that I failed."

Kail tightened his arms around his Koishii. "Don't worry about it. We have more important concerns. I'll rejoin you once I deal with the Egyptians." He nuzzled her hair when she gave him a pout and continued to do so until she cracked a smile. They were starting a family. This should be a joyous moment for them. No one was going to ruin their happiness. Kail placed his hands over Kagome's still flat stomach and caressed it gently, smiling happily. 'A family."

Shalla and Ryui placed their hooded robes on and collected the small chest of treasures they kept hidden inside their room. They wanted to visit the temple so that the goddess who rules over it would bless Princess Kagome a safe delivery when the time comes for the baby to be born. They wrapped themselves in clean, white robes and announced their departure.

"Sister Hadi, we're going to the temple of Bel to pray for a safe delivery for Princess Kagome." Ryui said with a smile on her face. She was happy that her mistress was finally able to feel like she belonged in this country.

Shalla nodded her head and readjusted the weight of the small chest in her arms. "We would visit the Goddess of Arinna in Anatolia if we could, but the Temple of Bel will have to do."

Hadi smiled at the twins for their thoughtfulness but the reminder that the Emperor wanted to keep the pregnancy under wraps was still fresh in her mind. "That is a noble intention sister." she praised. "But is it wise at this time?"

Ryui waved her elder sister's warning off with a smile as she walked towards the door. She also wanted to gather some goats and chickens to provide to the temple as a blessing. "No one at the temple knows us, so they'll have no idea on whose behalf it is that we're praying for."

"Perhaps you're right..." The tall, brunette relented with a sigh. She folded her arms under her chest and gave her sisters the look. "Anyway..." Hadi began, "Come back as soon as possible. We still have much to do." she watched as her younger sister walk out of the room before a heavy sigh left her. She was starting to miss her little brother. With the twins gone, she had no one around to tease. Perhaps, Rusafa was around for her to tease for a bit before she returned to work.

"It doesn't matter whether it's a boy or girl. We just want the delivery to go well." Shalla said as she placed the many treasures on the pedestal of the temple. She turned to flash a kind smile to the priest that was there to answer their prayers. "We've brought offerings. They aren't much but they're all we could scare up."

The priest smiled softly at the two young women. "Your offerings are more than adequate, ladies. I assure you that the God of this temple will watch over the woman as she gives birth." He lifted his hands as he said, "I gather you're not from this area, so your friend may be nervous about having her child in a foreign land but tell her to rest easy."

Ryui returned the kind smile the priest gave her and her twin with one of her own. "Thank you, priest. Thank you very much!" She turned and grasped her sister's hand in hers, squeezing it happily. "We're sorry we're unable to reveal the name of the mother." They bowed in respect as they prepared to take their leave back to the palace. The priest waved off their apology with a few kind words. "I'm glad we came. Aren't you, Shalla?"

Shalla flashed a grin back her twin. "Oh yes. Let's go back and tell "our friend.""

The priest waved the two ladies off with a kind smile on his lips. Soon, his smile turned devious as he began to unravel the cloth that covered his head. "Ah, loyal maids, you were most discreet." Glistening blond hair shone in the sunlight as Urhi pulled off the white cloak that covered his body. "You are quite devoted to her, as a matter of fact. But I'm aware of the identity of your mistress." His single sky-blue eye narrowed as he continued to watch the two handmaids be giddy about their prayers. "If you've come here to pray for a safe delivery, I've no doubt the woman who will be giving birth is that same mistress, Kagome Ishtar and the father must be Mursili II. It is an interesting development." His lips pulled down into a frown as he mulled over the news. "Something will need to be done about it. Of that I am quite certain."

Fate gasped as a vision struck her mind. Tears began to swell in her eyes as she realized that there was nothing that could be done about this destiny for Kagome. It was what the Shikon no Tama required as their debt for saving the Fourth Prince. Oh, how she wished that she could persuade the youkai to collect something else other than the miko's firstborn child. And to force her new confidant, Ankoku to take the infant was going to break Kagome's soul even more.

"I must do something." The ruler of the cosmos said, raising to her feet.

Akihiko had just finished taking his medication as he could feel his other half trying to surface. After that fiasco with challenging Kagome, the guardian began taking the liquid to keep Kazuhiko under control. "My lady, you know that you cannot do anything that will change the course of fate. Only Higurashi Kagome can change her destiny."

Fate flashed her angry tanzanite eyes at her kind protector. "I have to try! I cannot let those youkai gain such a powerful infant! A child born of two powerful spiritual beings does not need to be trapped inside the Shikon. They are intending on using her child to take Midoriko's place!" The black-haired ruler of the cosmos raised her head in confidence. While she may not be able to change the fate that was going to happen, she could make sure that the youkai of the Shikon cannot touch the unborn baby. She gathered all her strength to summon someone in her enchanted mirror.

A figure slowly began to emerge in the glass. Dark brown eyes, and long flowing black hair that curled at the ends, a pretty porcelain face. It was Ursula. The woman blinked her eyes as she looked around her surroundings curiously. Where was she? She should be inside the tear gem that housed her soul. Why was she in a mirror now? Her gaze turned to look at the beautiful celestial being in front of her. "Where am I? Who are you?"

"Ursula, handmaiden of Higurashi Kagome and fiancé to Kash. I am Lady Fate, ruler of the cosmos." Fate introduced herself before casting wise and all-knowing tanzanite eyes on the woman in the mirror. "I called you here because I have something to ask of you." she smiled when the woman gave her a confused nod. "Your mistress, Higurashi Kagome is with child," Fate paused to allow Ursula to let out a happy cheer. "Ursula, do you know that Kagome is the eternal guardian of an artifact called the Shikon no Tama."

"Princess Kagome did mention something about it." Ursula recalled, placing her finger to her chin. "But what does that have to do with anything?"

Fate readjusted her long white hanfu as her eyes glowed brightly. "Kagome used the Shikon to save the life of the Fourth Prince of the Hittite Kingdom, Zannanza Hattsuli and with it being a selfish wish, there is a consequence that must be fulfilled." She paused to allow the information to be processed by the dark-haired beauty in the mirror. "The youkai of the Shikon desire a product of true love from Kagome."

Ursula gasped as she figured out just what that product of true love will be. "They want to take Princess Kagome's baby?! You can't let that happen!"

Pressing her fingers against the cool mirror where Ursula's cheek was. "Dear Ursula, that is why I contacted you. While I cannot change the destiny of what will happen to Kagome and her child, you can save the infant's soul and prevent it from being trapped in the Shikon." She smiled delicately when Ursula's eyes widened in confusion. "I want for you to take the child's soul before the Shikon forces Ankoku to do it. Keep it safe until it can be reincarnated."

"You want me to trap Princess Kagome's child with me inside the tear gem?" Ursula asked carefully. "Why?"

"A child born from two powerful spiritual beings such as Kail and Kagome should not be allowed to be trapped in the Shikon. I'd rather the child be trapped in its mother's tear where it will be protected by someone who loves its mother than being raised by youkai and potentially used against its mother." Fate replied, her hands clenched into fists as she bowed her head. "I beg of you, Ursula. Protect Higurashi Kagome's baby from the Shikon."

Ursula watched the woman with wide eyes. Can she really beat the Shikon in the effort to obtain Kagome's baby's soul? What if she could not do it? Her own soul was still in Hattusa with Tito inside the tear gem. She gasped as she felt a warm feeling spreading down her body, originating from her chest. Ursula closed her eyes, bringing her hands to her chest. Fate would have not called her if she thought that she could not do it. Only she could protect Princess Kagome's child. She was the princess' last hope in seeing her baby again. Opening her eyes, Ursula nodded.

Kagome ran her fingers through Kail's soft hair, humming as she did so. Kail had his arms wrapped around her his face nuzzled against her belly. They were both resting on the bed in their bedchamber as the Emperor refused to let Kagome leave the safety of their room. He just did not trust anyone around his pregnant 'wife.' He could not wait to see her large and swollen with their child.

"Hmmm..." he whispered as he rubbed his face deeper into his princess' still flat stomach. "They say one can feel a baby's movement in the womb. I don't feel anything. Perhaps it's sleep?"

A soft giggle left the priestess as she stroked her digits through his golden hair once more. "No, silly. I'm only about six to seven weeks along, Heika." she grinned when he shot her an annoyed look for calling him by his title and not his name. "Only I can feel the baby's movements right now, if she decides to move."

Kail arched a fine brow. "She?" He chuckled and wrapped his arms around her a little more tightly. "How do you know that it is a girl? It could be a son." Kail grinned at her crossed look and leaned up and kissed the tip of her nose. "I do want a son, but a daughter would be just as wonderful. I know. Why don't we have one of each? We can try as many times as we like until we do."

Kagome felt warmth spread down her body as Kail leaned up once more and caught her lips with his in a deep, passionate kiss. She opened to him when his swiped his tongue and moaned at the feeling of him plundering her mouth. Kail crept his hand up her side, caressing her soft curves until his fingers reached his prize. His long fingers closed over the soft mound of flesh and kneaded it sift, fondling his princess until a soft mewl left her throat. Kail was about to push Kagome down onto the bed to have his sinfully wicked ways with her when a cough interrupted him.

"Apologies for the intrusion, Your Majesty." Kikkuri said from the doorway, his head bowed, but you could still see the faint red blush that covered his face. "But all is ready to escort Princess Kagome to Carchemish. Would you see if everything is to your liking?"

The Emperor, while annoyed that he was interrupted before he was able to even get a taste of Kagome's delicious body, nodded. "Yes, I'll be right there." He placed a smile on his face when Kagome announced that she would accompany him. Kail placed his finger against her lips. "No, just wait for me here. I'll be right back. Replacing his finger with his lips he gave her a seductive kiss that held many promises. Kail then slid off the bed and faced Kikkuri with a passive look on his face. "Is everything under control?"

Kikkuri lifted out of his bow. "Yes, sir. Only Princess Kagome's closest aides know that she is with child. They're ready to leave tomorrow as scheduled."

Kagome smiled as she watched her Emperor walk out of their bedchamber. She lay back on the bed with the feeling of content surrounding her heart. Not even Nakia's threats or the oncoming conflict with Egypt could destroy her happiness. Both felt so unreal to her at this moment. She was going to become a mother to someone she could raise from infancy. Shippou was going to be a big brother! A giddy laugh left her throat as she played with her tennis bracelet. Kagome has never felt this much peace of mind since coming here and falling in love with Kail as she did at that moment. 'Ankoku, is this how you felt when you learn that you were with child?'

Ankoku shifted nervously within the consciousness of her mistress' mind. "Yes, Lady Kagome. It felt something similar to what you're feeling. It is a magical feeling once the child starts moving." She cringed at the giddiness of Kagome's voice. The miko youkai felt guilt and regret fill her soul at the thought of what her creators were making her do. No woman should have to lose their child like this.

"Hadi-san?" Kagome called out; a wide smile still preset on her face. "What's the latest on Egypt? Has the fighting begun?"

"No, not yet, Princess." The brunette answered, placing down a tray that held a kettle of tea and a pot of honey. She poured the hot liquid into a mug for the priestess and added the thick, sweet molten gold before handing it to Kagome. "Please don't worry yourself about that right now. Here you go, milady."

Shalla walked out to meet with Kikkuri after her eldest sister told the miko to ease her mind about the incoming war. "His Majesty hasn't said anything to Princess Kagome concerning the military situation?"

Ryui followed up her sister's words. "Does he truly believe it's possible for him to keep her in the dark about such matters?"

Kikkuri paused in his actions, a slight smile on his face. He was happy for his best friend. He was finally about to start a family with the woman he loved. "Princess Kagome won't even know what the weather is like, if that is what His Majesty wishes." He laughed at the thought of a heavily pregnant Kagome cursing at Kail for not even allowing her to walk to get a glass of water. Kail will try to wait on her hand and foot. His best friend was going to be such a doting father. "He will shelter her from everything as though wrapping her in a silk cocoon. I believe that's what His Majesty has always wanted to do for her. Now he means to do it."

Back in the room with Kagome, she lay back down on the bed. She wrapped her arms around her stomach lovingly. "Hello, sweetheart. I promise to love you always." She spoke kind and gentle words to her unborn child, unknowing to the dark glow that was shining under her top. 'I'm so happy that it almost frightens me. I have a family here now, too.'

"Take whatever you need with you." Kail said as he addressed his Commanders and Deputy. He scanned the storage room and crossed his arms over his chest. Perhaps they should not take too much, it could attract unwanted attention. "However, don't form too large of a convoy. That could attract unwanted attention. Now as to Kagome's personal guard..." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully as he carefully processed each of the potential soldiers that could protect his family. "It should be one of you, but with the Egypt situation that's not an option."

Kikkuri rose out of bow. "Sir! I've selected the most skilled of my warriors to guard Princess Kagome!"

"Pardon me, Your Majesty!" A voice announced from behind the Emperor. When Kail acknowledged him, he continued. "We have visitors, sir. Prince Niqmepa, your appointed regent in Ugarit is here along with the mayor or Ugarit and the city's head priest, they wish to pay their respects."

Kail arched a fine blond brow. "They're here? Why?" he walked out of the stage room and headed towards the main throne room where he saw the three men bowing deeply in front of many offerings of various treasures.

Niqmepa was the first to speak. "May we sincerely extend our heartfelt congratulations to Your Majesty, Emperor Mursili II?"

"What are all these good you've brought here?" Kail asked.

The elderly prince lifted his head to look at the young Emperor with a joyous smile on his face. "They're out humble gifts to you in celebration of the coming birth of your first child! We congratulate you, Your Majesty, on this happy even, and wish good health to Ishtar!"

Kail felt the blood drain from his face. How did they find out? No one should know about Kagome's pregnancy. She'd only just found out by chance and told him a few days ago? Who could have spread the rumor? "How did you find out about this?"

"Why, sir, all of Ugarit's buzzing with the news! I daresay it will soon be the talk of the entire empire!" Niqmepa cried out happily for the young Emperor.

No sooner than when the regent of the town announced this, roars of voices flooded the palace walls. The townspeople were all cheering for Kail and Kagome, congratulating them on their oncoming pregnancy. Kail felt his pulse speed up and fear gripped his heart. If news traveled to Hattusa, then Nakia will learn that Kagome is carrying his heir. The thought of losing either of them was enough to cause a cold sweat to form on his skin.

"Seems good news travels fast, Your Majesty." The Infantry Commander chuckled.

Kash walked beside his friend. "The people have hoped you would have an heir. Perhaps you will permit a public celebration?"

"What?!" Kail snapped, his golden eyes blazing with anger. "You dare suggest I expose Kagome to that?!" HE quickly calmed down when he realized what he was doing. They were simply explaining that his people only wanted to celebrate this joyous occasion with him. "Sorry, I... that is..."

Kikkuri laughed nervously as he approached his best friend. "We understand your concern sir." He cringed when the roars grew even loader, signaling that even more people have come to the palace. "But the news has clearly gotten out, the people are with you and they love Ishtar. Will we let our fear wall us off from their heartfelt joy?"

Kail paused for a long moment, his thought a jumbled mess. One side of him knew that they should allow his people in on this wondrous occasion, while his more selfish side wanted to keep Kagome hidden from everyone so that only he could see her as she grew with their child. Only he wanted to see her so swollen with his seed that he had to wait on her hand and foot and treat her life the Queen she was meant to be. The Emperor sighed heavily, "No, you're right... the people deserve to share in this." He knew that, but when it all comes to Kagome, Kail is very selfish and he cannot help that. She was is Koibito, his true love... He looked away from his loyal subjects with a frown on his face. "Alright. Kagome and I will hold a reception before she leaves for Carchemish tomorrow. See to it."

Kagome smiled as she waved to the people who came to see her off. At first, she was apprehensive about the people knowing about her pregnancy because that meant news could have traveled to Nakia, but she soon became swept up in the excitement. She was practically glowing with happiness as she wrapped her arms around Kail's shoulders and planted a kiss to his lips. "Everyone's so happy, Kail. It's wonderful." She nuzzled her face into the crook of his neck, sighing happily. "How did I deserve all this? It's almost like I'm dreaming."

Kail wound his arms tightly around her lithe body, squeezing gently as to not bother their growing child. "Be careful on the journey, Koibito." He whispered softly. The Emperor nuzzled his face into her hair, inhaling her sweet unique scent that was entirely Kagome.

"You worry too much, Koishii." Kagome said as she wrapped her arms around her string neck, holding him closely. "Carchemish is a long way from Hattusa and Nakia." She rubbed her face against his chest, his scent surrounding her. She always loved the scent of the soap he bathed in. "I won't let anything happen to this child."

"Now, off you go." Kail relentlessly let her leave the safety of his arms. He resisted the urge to gather her back to protect her from any harm or danger that may be lurking around. The Emperor turned his head at the sound of his best friend's voice.

Kikkuri looked worried as he relayed the message a soldier had told him, "Your Majesty. The palace's courtyard and gate area are filled with citizens. Shall I increase the guard on Ishtar's convoy?"

Kail nodded. "Do so, Kikkuri." He cringed at the loud roaring of voices that echoed throughout the palace walls. It seemed like the number of people has tripled in the last hour alone.

"Your Majesty!" an advisor announced with glee. "Well-wishers are arriving from neighboring towns and the streets are flooded with people!"

The blond ruler of the Hittites bit his lip as his eyes narrowed suspiciously. His worry for Kagome elevated even more and he began second thinking about allowing her to leave his sight.

"Move! Let us through!" The guards carrying the palanquin called out to the thousands of people that were trying to surround Ishtar. "No one is allowed near Ishtar's palanquin!" They got in the faces of some well-wishers that attempted to stop them so that they may grace Ishtar with their praises. "Move! Do not impede us! You heard! Move!"

"You move, soldier!" A voice called out from the crowd. "We're here to congratulate Ishtar!" Within the sea of people, a dark cloaked figure smiled as he goaded the crowd on. "We want Ishtar!" he yelled, manipulating the thousands of people surrounding the path.

"Yes, that's right! The people began to agree, pushing harder against the guards. "We want to see Ishtar!"

The guards started to get nervous. The people were being very persistent in their quest to glance upon Ishtar's face. They were shoving rather violently now, forcing them to block with their weapons. "Hey!" the warriors shouted, "Stop that! Stop pushing!"

"Ishtar! Please!" the voice called out once more, spurning the crowd into a frenzy. "Let us see your face!"

"Oh brother!" The guards carrying the palanquin stumbled as they were being pushed and tugged on by the crowd of citizens. "They're getting awfully excited..." The pushing and tugging increased until one of them lost their grip on the handle and crashed into the man in front of him.

"Look!" someone cried out worryingly when they noticed the palanquin wobbling. "Ishtar is..."

Before anyone could react, the guards carrying the palanquin tripped over themselves. They cried out as the weight of the carriage began to tip off their shoulders as they crashed to the ground. The area erupted into cries of worry for the young Goddess Incarnate as they realized what they had done. They had injured Ishtar! But...where was Ishtar? Why was there a bunch of stones stacked in the Palanquin?

Urhi bit his lip in irritation at the fact that his plan to cause an unfortunate accident to happen. He thought over the other options and his eye widened at the realization that Kail must have had expected this and would send Kagome another way.

Down by the docks, Kail wrapped his arm protectively around Kagome's waist as the news of what happened to the palanquin reached his ears. He was so glad that she was not on the carriage when it fell over. Even if her body was strong, he was still wanted to protect her like it was fragile. Kagome was housing his seed within her body. She was growing life in her delicate womb and a fall from that height could have caused her to miscarry or worse. She could have struck her head on the rough terrain. Kail felt his heart constrict painfully in his chest at what could have happened if he had sent Kagome by land.

Kash sighed in relief as he played with the headband of silky black hair. "His Majesty made the right call. Princess Kagome wouldn't have made it safely out of the city by land."

Kail pulled Kagome closer, holding her against his side tightly. "Agreed. Though I must wonder how the crowd got so agitated. It's as if they were goaded."

Kagome leaned into her Emperor's side, placing her hand on his chest. "Kail." She smiled lovingly when he turned to gaze down at her. "You made the right call to send me by sea. So, stop worrying. Besides, I doubt Ankoku will let anything happen to me or our child. This is as much as her baby as it is mine." She placed her hand gently over her still flat stomach, her happiness radiating.

"I suppose so..." He hummed as he planted a sweet kiss to her lips. Kail then lifted her up into the air, "And this time you really are leaving." The blond almost pulled her back into his arms when she pouted at how abruptly he ended the kiss. "You must go before the confusion over the decoy abates." He felt his chest constrict painfully as he watched the ship slowly pulled away from the harbor.

"Take care of yourself Kail! I expect an update soon so I can help formulate a plan!" She called out. Kagome was still a little mad that she was being set away, but she could understand Kail's concern. While Kagome felt like she was still capable of leading the Imperial Army, she would begin to get hormonal and the sickness she'd been getting was starting to get worse with each day.

Kail narrowed his eyes as thoughts entered his mind, increasing his worry. 'Why? Why am I still worried about her? Ugarit will soon become a war zone, so sending her to Carchemish is the right decision, despite her protests.' He chuckled as he remembered what he had to do to snuff out those protests and the many orgasms Kail gave Kagome that night. 'I know she'll be safe there, but I still feel uneasy. Are my fears groundless?'

Rusafa felt his fingers twitch as he heard the gong being sounded as the ship began to leave the harbor. His heart clenched at the thought that Kagome was leaving without his protection. Yes, he knew that she belonged to the Emperor, but he felt the need to protect her when Kail could not. Reaching for his cloak, Rusafa tossed it away and took a running leap towards the boat and landed next to Kagome. "Your Majesty!" he called out. "I know you will punish me later for disobedience, but I simply must accompany Princess Kagome to Carchemish."

"Wasn't he ordered to lead the army?" Kash said in a deadpan voice.

Mettannamuwa replied in an equally dry tone. "Looks like we just got the job."

"Kail!" Kagome called out. "Your Ishtar blesses you with great victory over Egypt." A slow seductive smile flitted over her lips as she narrowed her eyes. "I will be awaiting you in Carchemish."

Unknown to everyone, Urhi stopped at the stop of the stairs hiding in the shadows. "Your Majesty, Mursili II..." he sighed as he gazed at the ship that was leaving the harbor, his single eye gleaming in the rising sunlight as his hair glittered like gold. "Did you think I wouldn't guess Ishtar would be taking the sea route to Carchemish once I learned that she wasn't travelling by land? If so, you were wrong. And, sad to say, you will lose her..."

"Kagome Ishtar is expecting!" Aygil announced proudly as he read the message that had been delivered to the palace. He smiled widely at the cheers that began to erupt from his fell senate members. "I believe it is. This letter just arrived from Ugarit confirming the news." The bald man turned to address the Imperial Clerk for reassurance. "You know this, Ilbani?"

Ilbani nodded his head, an easy-going smile nestled on his usually stoic face. "I've received a personal message from His Majesty telling me Ishtar is indeed expecting." He cut his eyes behind him when the last person's voice he wanted to hear echoed behind him. Ilbani grit his teeth as he locked eyes with Nakia, her venom green eyes lit with barely concealed anger.

"What is this I hear about His Majesty?!" She prayed her ears betrayed her. Kail cannot be having a child! She would not allow it to be!

Aygil flashed the queen dowager a happy smile as he announced the good news to her. He could not wait to tell the entire Kingdom the news about the Emperor's first child. He felt like he was going to be a grandfather even though he knew better than the address the future Crown Prince of Princess as such. "Oh, Your Highness, I was about to come tell you! It's the most wonderful news from Ugarit! His Majesty, Mursili II, is going to be a father! If it's a boy, the empire will have a new Crown Prince! What a joyous day, Your Highness!"

Ilbani was enjoying the scowl that was threatening to form on Nakia's lips as she tried to hide her anger at the news. He could not help but to add fuel to her already burning rage. "And, if a girl, Hittite Law will allow her to lead the nation once she's married. Either way, His Majesty will be assured of a successor."

"I see. Well then..." Nakia trailed off as she turned on her heel, her long shawl flowing out behind her. "If you'll excuse me, I'll celebrate at my palace."

"Ah yes, a celebration!"

"Let's make a public announcement!"

The Imperial Clerk's easy-going smile faded as he watched the Queen Dowager walk away to her palace. His grey eyes narrowed. 'If I know His Majesty, he would rather have kept this development a secret, especially from Nakia. I must keep an even closer eye on her.'

Nakia grabbed a nearby vase once she entered her room and threw it against the wall. She knocked over the furniture that was in her path as she walked to the center of the room.

Kail to be a father? That was unacceptable! Her son, Juda, was the only one that was to sit upon the throne! She would not allow any other to take his place. Higurashi Kagome must not have that baby! The Queen Dowager sliced her eyes to the door when it creaked open and maid shyly walked in and bowed lowly.

"Excuse me, Your Highness..." she said timidly as she avoided looking around the destroyed room. "A letter has arrived for you from Ugarit."

Nakia tried to slow her heavy breathing. "Indeed? From whom?"

"It's from the Temple of Bel, but there's no name affixed."

"Give me that!" The Queen Dowager yelled, reached for the small clay tablet from the cushion it was on. She dismissed the maid with a wave of her hand and waited a few minutes to make sure she was alone before she cracked open the message. "Ah! It's from Urhi!" she read the message quietly. "Your Highness, Queen Dowager Nakia. An even of some moment has been announced in Ugarit. Kagome Ishtar, the concubine of Emperor Mursili II, is expecting. Rest assured, I will deal with the matter." Nakia let a cruel smile slither onto her lips as he eyes took on an evil gleam. 'I know you will, Urhi. You as much as I wish Kail to remain childless!' An evil aura began to swirl around Nakia as her reiki flared with her vile thoughts.

Kagome tilted her head back as the salty sea breeze blew her long raven hair away from her face. She was enjoying the cool, damp weather as her eyes slid closed. "Ankoku, are you still not talking to me?" She tried to communicate with her darker side. The miko youkai had been silent ever since they had found out that she was with child. "Are you mad that I told Kail that this is as much your child as it is mine? Well it is partially true. You do inhabit my body and a part of me born from the Jewel. Hell, you even look like me!" She sighed when all she got was a restless stir from the dark embodiment. Kagome opened her eyes when she heard her name being called out. "Hi, Hadi-san."

"Princess Kagome!" Hadi called out as she climbed the stairs to reach the priestess. "You shouldn't stay out in this brisk wind. Won't you come inside?"

A gentle laugh left the Princess. She knew that they were worried about her in her condition, but she was not a fragile little dame. Kagome leaned deeper into her massive pile of pillows and drew in a deep breath. "Give me a few more minutes, Hadi-san. The sea breeze feels so good. Besides, I'm not going to break. I swear, you're just as bad as Kail." she giggled out.

Hadi sighed as she let a small smile settle on her lips. "You once said you were born in a country surrounded by the sea."

Kagome nodded. "Yes, that's right. Tokyo was very close to the shore and my house faced the sea." She remembered always going out to the edge of the steps of the family shrine and just breath in the salty scent of the warm breeze every summer. "The smell of the ocean reminds me of my childhood. I feel like taking a swim. I'm a very good swimmer." she laughed as she remembered being called a water imp by the villagers the first time, they witnessed her swimming. Kagome blinked when she was suddenly surrounded by her handmaids.

"That's quite out of the question, Princess Kagome!" Hadi yelled.

Ryui nodded as she agreed with her elder sister. "You'll get cold and that wouldn't be good for your baby!"

"It's time you came inside! Now!" Shalla announced.

Kagome felt sweat rolled down the side of her face as she had to beat down the urge to yell back at her handmaids. They were just overly worried about her since there were still many threats that wanted to claim her unborn baby's life. She knew that by now, news has had to reach Hattusa and with them being surrounded by Nakia's element had put her friends on edge. She turned her head when she heard her name being called out and she spotted Rusafa walking with a tall, brown haired man. "Yes, Rusafa?"

Rusafa directed her attention to the man to his left. "The captain of the ship wishes to be presented to Ishtar."

The captain bowed respectfully; his arm crossed over his heart. "I apologize for not having greeted you earlier, Ishtar." he smiled when she waved away his apology with a kind smile on her lips. "I am Regil. Commander of this fleet." Regil introduced himself. "The nation of Kizzuwatna is honored to have you aboard. If there is any way in which we can make your voyage more pleasant, just say so."

Kagome tilted her head in confusion for a moment. This was a Kizzuwatna ship? Realization filled her and she snapped her fingers. "Oh, the Hittite Empire has no shorelines, and with that no navy." she deduced, watching her friends nod in agreement with her. "So, we have to rely on the naval forces that belong to the seafaring allies." 'Such as Ugarit, Arzawa and Kizzuwatna.'

"Everyone on board is faithful to Emperor Mursili II." Regil said proudly, the wind whipping at his long brown bangs. "We will see to your safety and a speedy passage. Just relax and enjoy the cruise." He gauged the direction of the winds and calculated the speed in his head quickly and made an announcement. "In point of fact, the winds may pick up this evening. If so, we should arrive at Iskenderun by noon tomorrow."

"Thank you, Commander." Kagome smiled as she wrapped her hands lovingly around her slow growing stomach. She was so happy that she could not even be mad at Kail for sending her away from the frontlines. The Princess knew that this is how he's always wanted to treat her. He wanted to see her fat and swollen with his seed, so that he could tend to her hand and foot. Kagome knew that once she began showing, Kail would not let her do a single thing for herself. Hell, he would probably even bathe and wash her hair for her. 'That's not a bad idea...' she hummed. 'Mama, Jii-chan, Souta, you'd be shocked to know that I'm pregnant with a child that isn't Inuyasha's. But know this, this child was made from love and will be raised with love. This is our baby...our family...'

Ankoku felt her eyes burn with unshed tears as she listened in on Kagome's thoughts. Her mistress even called the baby partly hers. This made taking it even harder. The demoness had even tried to flee to Zannanza but the youki blocked her soul before it could even detach from Kagome's. Nothing would stop them from collecting what belonged to them. They wanted their payment. They wanted the product of true love that Kagome owed them for saving the fourth Prince's life. They have been lenient enough to not corrupt her soul for the selfish wish that was made nearly four years ago.

"I don't want to do this..." Ankoku whispered to the youkai, cringing when they lashed out at her with their combined strength.

"You will do as you are told! We listened to your request to not corrupt Higurashi Kagome's soul when she made that selfish wish four years ago. We made an agreement to take a product of true love instead!" The youkai boomed, whipping the miko youkai with powerful lashes of youki. How dare something they created tried to defy them! Ankoku was supposed to take over Kagome's body and trap her inside the Shikon no Tama to take Midoriko's place. The old priestess was starting to lose her powers due to how long she'd been fighting and Naraku being the main youkai to fight. "Because you fell in love and no longer desire to take over Kagome, we need a soul that will battle against us for another millennia!"

Ankoku brought her knees up to her chest and let out a small sob. This was her punishment for falling in love?! To take something so precious from her mistress. To take the soul of her unborn child and cause her to miscarry? She bit her bottom lip, her fang piercing the flesh and blood dripped down her chin. Slowly, her aura darkened as her defiance began to waiver. This is what she had to do. She was still part of the dark side of the Shikon and if they want a product of true love then they will get it. "I understand. I will strike tonight. I will take Higurashi Kagome's firstborn child as the next being to do battle for the next millennia."Ankoku opened her eyes and they were glowing bright red from the influence of the Shikon, the dark violet marking above her left breast pulsating.

"Sir!" Kash called out as he rushed into the throne room. "Your Majesty! He paused when the Emperor acknowledged him and asked him what the matter was. His voice was a mixture of anxiety and panic as he said, "I've been looking into what stirred up the crowd and caused them to overturn Princess Kagome's palanquin. What I've found out is to say the least troubling!" He waited for Kail to ask him what he found before continuing. "There was a provocateur inciting them to demand that Ishtar show her face. According to witness accounts, there man was blind in one eye and clade in a black cape!"

Kail's ocher eyes widened at the realization that Urhi had already found out about Kagome's upcoming pregnancy. He only rayed that it was the right decision to send his beloved by sea instead of going for the alternative land route like his secondary plan was. 'Kagome...please be safe...'

Mettamumuwa grit his teeth at the notion that Urhi was in Ugarit. "You're serious? Urhi was in Ugarit?!"

"Then he knows about the child!" Kikkuri said in a panic. "Thai is calamitous! We must warn Rusafa!"

"How?" Kash questioned, pulling at the headband for comfort, "We can't get a message to someone at sea!"

Kagome held onto her stomach, feeling nauseous as the boat rocked back and forth almost violently. She felt her insides twist up as she knew that if the wind did not settle soon, she would be losing the delicious and nutritious dinner Hadi and her sister provided for her. "Damned wind really is picking up." she cursed sourly as her face took on a slight green tint. The
Shikon no Miko laid her head back down on the many pillows she was perched on. "We should try to sleep. Hopefully things will be calm by morning." Kagome narrowed her eyes when she heard something crack.

Outside on the hull of the ship, a man wearing a scarf on his head climbed out from below deck. He looked around to make sure that no one was watching him as he snuck over to the rope that held the main sail. He slowly pulled out a knife and began his task of slicing through the thick rope. He flinched when someone called out his name.

Officer Alek? Why are you here at this hour?"

Alek hurriedly snapped the rope and turned to quickly cut through the other one. When the soldier approached him, questioning his actions, Alek shoved him back and causing the oil lamp to spill. The flame licked at the split oil and began to burn the wall to black cinders.

The noise outside caused the priestess to rush out of her room with her handmaids close behind. "What's going on?" she asked, her eyes narrowed at the man standing in front of the flames and fallen sail sheet.

Regil and Rusafa rushed around the corner, their eyes locked on the man wearing the scarf. "Alek!" Regil yelled, shielding his face from the hot flames that licked at the wood. "What on earth are you doing?"

"Forgive me, Commander Regil!" Alek pleased his, brown eyes shining with tears. "I have to do this to save my son's life! If I sank this ship, I'll receive enough money to take my son to a doctor!" He explained his reasoning as the flames crackled loudly behind him, giving his skin an orange glow. "The priest promised me! That blond priest promised me!"

"Blond priest?" Rusafa questioned.

Shalla bit her lip as she turned to her older twin, "Ryui, the temple!"

"The priest we saw..." Ryui gasped, her grey-green eyes wide. "Was it Urhi?"

Kagome's dark blue eyes narrowed at the name. Urhi. The person who was responsible for Ursula being trapped within her tear gem. She bit her lip hard enough to draw blood to prevent the growl that was building up in her chest. Her eyes flashed bright red from Ankoku's influence, but time it felt different. It was harder for her to calm down like her anger was taking over her and drawing her within her consciousness. She could not move. Kagome was paralyzed with her rage.

"The ship's sinking!" Regil announced loudly when he saw the boat taking on water at a rapid pace. His dark eyes scanned the area for a safe passage for Ishtar. "We must transfer Ishtar to another ship immediately!"

A soldier shuffled from under the deck, his face a worried scramble. "No good, sir! The rudder's destroyed! We can't maneuver!"

"What?!"

"We're shipping water at the stern! The ship's doomed, sir!"

Regil was in a panic as he ordered his workers to signal a flare to alert the other ships to come to them. They needed to get Ishtar to safety. She was carrying the future heir to the Hittite throne!

"It's too late, sir!"

Kagome, still paralyzed, was thrown overboard as the ship rocked violently as it took on water. Once the cold water struck her, she managed to take some control over her body. 'I'm in the water...' she realized. The Princess brought her arms above her head to attempt to swim to the surface. 'I can swim. Even if this long skirt makes it hard. `` Her heart pulsed loudly in her chest when something felt off. Her stomach was beginning to throb rather painfully. 'No!' Kagome screamed as she noticed that the mark of the Shikon was glowing a dark violet and realization finally hit her. The reason why Ankoku was being so silent and the reason why the youkai were beating her. 'A product of true love is the punishment for bringing Zannanza back. The Shikon will not take my child!' She blacked out as she felt her consciousness leave as she entered the Shikon.

"The flagship! It's gone under!"

"One minute it was there, the next..."

Mali's eyes widened at the sight of the flag ship going under. His brother's beloved Princess was on that ship. He knew that she should have been on the ship with him and not by herself. But he did not want it to look improper. "This...this can't be happening! Signal the fleet to form up and search for survivors!" He looked up at the soldier that had climbed up the mast to get a better sight of the damage. "You up there! Did you see anything? How did it happen?"

"I'm not sure, sir!" the soldier called back. "There was a fire, then it settled fast at the stern!"

'This is horrible!' The fifth Prince though as he walked over to the ledge of the ship he was riding, staring out into the dark water. 'Ishtar is the Hittite Goddess of War! Not only that, she is expecting His Majesty's child!' "To all ships! Cover the area! Above all, look for Ishtar! She must be recovered at all costs!"

Rusafa resurfaced from below the dark sea water, gasping in many quick breaths. "Princess Kagome!" he called out once he regained movement of his body, swimming through the sloshing waves of water. "Did anyone see Princess Kagome!" He cut through the heavy waves, pausing when he spotted two female figures floating nearby. "Hadi! Shalla!" Rusafa swan over to the two women, his black eyes widened at the blood he saw coming from a wound on Hadi's head. "What's wrong with Hadi?"

Shalla kicked her legs harder to keep both her and her sister afloat. "Rusafa!" She gazed down at her injured sister sadly. "I think she hot hit on the head by debris. And Ryui's missing! But don't worry about us! Find Princess Kagome!" Shalla let out a small shriek when a large wave crashed over them.

Rusafa quickly swam over to them females and grabbed them in his arms, pulling them close. "C'mon!" he directed them to the nearest ship that had cast a rope ladder down for them to climb. "Have you..." he paused to gather his breath, panting from swimming against the strong currents. "Have you found Princess Kagome?"

"Not yet!" the soldiers admitted dejectedly. "But everyone's looking for her."

"Rusafa!" Mali called out as he rushed over to the black-haired deputy, relief in his green eyes. "I'm glad you're okay!"

The deputy looked at the fifth prince with determination on his face as he said "Please look after these women, sir. I must find Ishtar!"

Mali gave in a look that screamed his denial. He always had an inkling that Rusafa's loyalty to Ishtar ran deeper than most, but to try and search for her in this darkness was almost impossible. He would have a better chance of finding her while they were on the ship were, they had many men searching for her. "You're going back in the water?! Don't be a fool! You know the odds against finding her in this dark sea! The current is very strong here! You won't make it back!

Rusafa gave the prince a concerned look as he turned back to the black waters. "If that's so, I must act fast!" With those words, the deputy dove back into the sea in search of his beloved Ishtar. Rusafa knew that only he could find her in this deep, dark sea. And only he was a strong enough swimmer to fight the rapid currents that tried to pull him under.

"Listen up!" Mali barked out loudly when Rusafa jumped back into the darkness. "Light bonfires to illuminate the sea! And keep lighting them and looking until we find Ishtar!"

'Where is she? Where is Princess Kagome?' Rusafa tore through the crashing waves as fast as he could, scanning the salty water for Ishtar Incarnate. He ignored the stinging of his eyes as he spotted a small head of dark hair, floating along the currents. "Princess Kagome!" The deputy quickly made his way over. Once he reached the person, a shudder when down his spine when he saw that it was not Kagome but the body of one of the soldiers. Rusafa laid the man back into the water and swam away. 'We can't lose Princess Kagome. We want her to be our Queen! The Hittite people and His Majesty need her!'

Rusafa swam a little further until the sound of waves crashing over something caught his attention. He looked over his shoulder and spotted another dark head leaning over one of the large crates that was on the ship that had sunk. With determination in his eyes, he tore through the currents towards the crate and he finally saw it. The long light blue skirt of the dress the Princess was wearing. "Princess Kagome!" Rusafa ripped his way through the black waters to Ishtar and quickly placed her higher against the crate. "Princess Kagome! It's me, Rusafa."

Kagome's body convulsed harshly against the crate as she opened her mouth to let out a guttural scream. "No! You can't have my baby! Ankoku! Why? This baby belongs to me and Kail! The Shikon cannot have it!" her reiki rose and nearly burned Rusafa's fingers if they weren't submerged in the icy waters of the sea.

"Let's get back to the fleet!" Rusafa said in a worried tone. Why would the Shikon want Kagome's baby? Perhaps once they made it to Carchemish, they could find a priest to help purify the evil stone to prevent it from doing such a heinous crime. He hissed slightly when his fingers encountered Kagome's flesh as it was glowing faintly from her powers. Rusafa turned around and his heart sank to his stomach. The current had carried them far from the fleet as the waves crashed over them, pushing them even further from their rescuer. "Hey!" he screamed, trying to gain their attention. "Over here! We're over here! This way!"

Kagome dodged Ankoku's scythe, calling upon her reiki to form a sword out of the energy. She swung in a graceful arc and struck the youkai in the side, causing her to hiss. The priestess wrapped a protective arm around her stomach as she gave the miko demoness a hard glare. "The Shikon will not take my baby! I do not care if it was part of the deal we made!"

Ankoku's red eyes flashed as she snarled at the Shikon no Miko. "Higurashi Kagome, you have no choice! It is your punishment for making such a selfish request of the jewel when you chose to save Prince Zannanza Hattsuli's life four years ago! We have been lenient in our wait! Give us the child!" The youkai passed her hand over her wound, her youki causing the gash to heal instantly. She charged at Kagome, slashing her scythe in a wide arc at her belly.

"No!" The priestess screamed as she somersaulted backwards to avoid the sharp blade. "Ankoku gave up a portion of her corruption to have the purity of the Shikon to burn at her soul." She quickly transformed her sword into a bow and shot three arrows at Ankoku, two landing in the demoness shoulders and one at her chest. Kagome let out a breath of relief when that seemed to stop her possessed companion.

The dark essence of Shikon froze momentarily when the holy arrows pierced her flesh, but slowly her clawed hand reached up and yanked the arrows out of her body. The holy energy arrows turned blood red as Ankoku eased them out, dissipating when she let go of them, "No, what Ankoku did was to give you a lesser punishment. The purity that burns at her soul was to appease the light side of the Shikon that wished to prevent you from being corrupted. We, the youkai, wished for a product of true love. Your firstborn child!"

Kagome felt the blood drain from her face when she realized that the Shikon was speaking the truth. Ankoku did say that she wished for the purity to forever burn at her soul to give Kagome a lesser punishment and that the Shikon wished for a product of true love. "I do not care! You are not taking my baby! My child will be born and grow up surrounded by its loving parents. Surrounded by me and Kail!" She placed her hands in front of her, weaving them in intricate patterns. "Seinaru inazuma!" Kagome called out as the white-hot energy began to cackle around her. "Kogeki!"

Kail paced the grounds of the palace, his thumb caught between his teeth. Why was it taking so long to hear something back from them? It was past high noon. The fleet should have made it there by now and should be travelling to Carchemish. He ignored his loyal servants' plea for him to get some rest. "Haven't we heard from Iskenderun yet?!" he asked rather urgently, his eyes wide with worry. "Has Kagome's ship arrived or hasn't it. Why does it take so long to hear anything about anything?!"

Kikkuri tried to smile easily at the Emperor. "Well, sir, no news is good news, isn't it?"

"Your Majesty, I have a message!" A soldier came rushing in and quickly dropped to his knees, his arm crossed over his heart. "Our troops are now engaged with the Egyptians on the banks of the Orontes River!"

"Led by User Ramses?" Kail questioned.

The soldier nodded. "Yes, sir! No question about it!

Kail's aura flashed white with anger as his eyes filled with his reiki. 'Ramses...' He venomously, his heart increasing in rate at the thought of finally settling the scare with the man who's been a constant thorn in his side when it came to Kagome. 'So, we lock horns again!' The wind swirled around him, causing his cloak to fly up in the harsh breeze. His heart then clenched painfully when he remembered that there was still no word about Kagome. Kail curled his fingers into fists as he screwed his eyes shut tight. 'I'm sure Kagome is safe. I must...I must believe she is!' Thrusting his hand out, Kail announced, "I'm off to the front!"

From the shadows, Urhi slinked out of the darkness. The ornate eyepatch glittering when the sunlight struck it. "So, the Emperor heads to the battlefield, eh." A smirk crossed over his lips as he knew that Ishtar is lost to him by now at the bottom of the river. "He'll need all the help he can get; I think. We'll soon see if Kagome Ishtar can bring Mursili II a measure of fortune in this troubled time." He chuckled to himself as he slid back into the darkness, the shadows comforting him. Yes, Your Highness, how will you fare knowing you will never see or embrace the only woman you have ever loved?'

Rusafa ignoring the burning of his fingers as he gently shook Kagome, trying to rouse her from her ongoing nightmare. "Princess Kagome! Wake up! Stay with me!" he pleased to the unconscious woman floating in the now calm waters. "We will be rescued, I promise! Please don't give up!" 'She must be fighting against the Shikon. The mark on her chest has been flashing like crazy. But she's exhausted and the water is sapping her physical strength.' His onyx eyes scanned the area and worried sigh left his lungs. 'What do I do? No ships or land in sight...' Rusafa tilted his head back and let a roar of exasperation. "Please God! Please, please help us!"

Kail led his army into battle, his eyes bright with determination. He will crush Ramses once and for all this time. The blond with smite that infuriating man off the face of this planet and he will no longer be a pest to his Koibito. "Hold the Egyptians at the river!" He commanded.

Ramses grinned like a madman when he realized that the enemy troops have suddenly become more organized, "Is that Mursili II in command? What a fine and unexpected opportunity to put an end to him!"

As the battle wore on, neither side refusing to back down as they tried to overpower one another. The hours dragged as the Hittites slowly began to push the Egyptians back, gaining the upper hand with Kail leading them. Kash wiped sweat from his brow as he took a small break from the frontlines.

"Ramses' men are putting up a good fight." he commented to Mettannamuwa.

The bald man nodded; his grey eyes hard as he adjusted his headband. "You're right. They're as determined to cross the river as we are to stop them!"

Kikkuri glanced off into the distance when the rapid footfalls of horses reached his ears. He saw the yellow flag the represented Mali's soldiers and smiled briefly. It would seem the messenger has finally come to bring his liege the words of comfort he needed to reassure him that Kagome was okay. "Your Majesty! A messenger is coming!"

Kail looked rather annoyed. "Now what?!"

"Your Majesty!" Mali called out as he forced his stallion to a stop.

"Prince Piyasili?" Kikkuri was rather confused. The blonde fifth prince should be on the road to Carchemish by now. "We thought you were travelling with Princess Kagome!"

The younger blond dropped off his horse and to his knees as his face showed his shame at what he was about to report to his beloved older brother. "Your Majesty, I must inform you..." he swallowed harshly, the sand making his throat even drier. "...that the flagship has been lost. It caught fire and sank. Ishtar and many others are missing!"

Kail's blood ran cold. "What?" He said, his face devoid of all emotions. "You say Kagome is missing?!" 'I knew a sea voyage had its own dangers...'

"Along with Rusafa and Ryui!" Mali added as he bowed his head low in front of his brother. "My men continue to search for them. I don't have the words to express my sorrow for allowing such a disaster to happen!"

Kikkuri scolded the young Prince. "I can imagine!"

The Emperor's eyes went wide as his mouth went agape. His heart began to twist painfully beneath his rib cage as every breath his took made his lungs burn. "Kagome is missing..." To lose the love of his life...How can any man bear such a tragedy. He barely heard one of his men call out that the Egyptians have split into two groups and were starting to cross the river. The only thing going through his mind was that Kagome was missing. How can a man left so bereft stand against the forces arrayed against him? "Kagome is missing..." Kail repeated, his voice cracking slightly as his amber eyes lost their glow.

"The Egyptians are coming at us! What are your orders, Your Majesty?!"

"Your Majesty?!"

Kikkuri gave a sad sigh. "Sir..."

Out on the battlefield, Ramses gave the order for his soldiers to cross the Orontes river and bring down the Hittites.

'If I lose Kagome...' Kail felt his whole world come crashing down around him as he could literally feel his heart break into a million little fragments. 'The sky will tumble down upon me!' He still did not hear his own soldiers pleads for him to give them his orders as tears began to swell in his eyes and his stomach began to tighten up with fear. Memories of his beloved flashed before his mind as she agreed to marry him and become his queen.

"Kail... I wish to marry you and become your lawful wife." He heard her sweet voice in his mind. "Don't you think making me your wife is asking too much of God..." Kail could vividly remember the many rounds of lovemaking they had to assure that God would have to just deal him the divine disapproval for a lifetime with her. "Kail I will become Tawananna so that Nakia can finally be relieved of it." The Emperor was so happy to hear those words come out of her lovely mouth, but he was even happier to hear those precious three words from her. "Kail, I love you. So very much." Kail felt lost as her beautiful smile flashed within his mind as he could almost hear her proclaim her undying love for him. His eyes took on a blank stare as a cold sweat coated his body. 'Kagome is missing...'

"Your Majesty!" Kikkuri shouted.

"My brother!" Mali called out at the same time.

A soldier came rushing in, his eyes wide with terror. "I have an update, sir! The Egyptians have made it across! They have us in a pincher!"

"Sir!" a soldier called out worriedly. "Sir! Our right flank has been beached!"

The Commander of the Infantry was shocked. "What? Didn't His Majesty order it reinforced?"

The soldier shook his head. "Not yet, sir!"

Kikkuri was trying to bring his best friend out of comatose state of mind. They were going to lose those vantage points over the Egyptians if Kail did not snap out of it soon. He walked up to the Emperor and noticed the dead look in his eyes, but still touched his arm in an act of reassurance. "Shouldn't we send them some men, sir?"

"Your Majesty!" Mali yelled, but upon seeing the blank look in his brother's eyes, he knew what he had to do. "I..." he swallowed dryly. "I'll go there! Give me one of your Infantry units!" He turned to jump back on his horse, his long cloak swirling around him. "Your Majesty!" he called out as he rode by to head to the right flank to help aid them. "I'll see you later!"

Kail blinked as his brother went by him, his breath leaving him in a sharp exhale. He quickly snapped out of his comatose state of mind to look around at the worried faces of his soldiers. "H..." he swallowed as he tried to remember what was told to him and blink away tears. "How many Egyptians are we facing on the right flank?"

The soldier bowed his head. "Sir, I believe there are about 150!"

"Send this instruction to Mali!" The Emperor called out, worried for his younger brother being so close to Ramses. He knew that if Mali were to engage with the Egyptian, he would be shown no mercy. "He mustn't push too hard against the momentum of the battle. And he must make sure to keep an avenue of retreat open! Ramses is leading the Egyptians, so the most important thing is not to panic!" Kail bit his lip in disbelief at what he has done. 'Yet it will be too little, too late! My God, what have I done?!'

Out on the battlefield, the three leaders of each platoon were struggling against the might of the Egyptian soldiers. Mettannamuwa admitted that he's never faced such formidable fighters. Mali felt sweat drip down his face as he defended himself and his horse. He conceded the battle to the Egyptians and called for a retreat. They could not hold them at the Orontes River any longer.

'With Ramses commanding them, even a small mistake on our side could be fatal!' Kail felt immense guilt at how he reacted to the news. It unmanned him and caused him to fail his men and his nation.

Ramses was angry that the Hittites have ordered a retreat. It was unlike Mursili to do so when the fight was at its peak. "This is a sad response, Mursili! Have you gone feeble?! Has your heart fled this battle?!"

Kail closed his eyes in shame. 'Ramses is like a circling hawk closing in on its prey with wings stretched free and wide.' He slowly curled his fingers into his fists as he regretted what he had to do to undo what he had just done. 'Victory is in his grasp and nothing will stop him!' In a loud, clear voice, Kail called out, "R... Retreat! All Hittites Forces, retreat!"

Rusafa kicked his feet against the now calm waves of the sea to keep both himself and Kagome afloat. His heart clenched painfully in his chest the longer her eyes were closed with no sign of her waking up. The deputy shook her gently, hissing silently when her glowing skin burned his fingers. "Princess Kagome marshal your strength. You must live!"

Kagome let out another small, heartbreaking scream as his face contorted into a pain filled expression. Her head lolled back as her hands clawed at the glowing mark on her chest. "No!" she shouted once more, her reiki flaring up and causing Rusafa to let out a howl of pain as he refused to let go of her. "You will not take my baby! Stay away!" Her breath began to come out and rapid huffs of air and even in the cold water Rusafa could feel the spike in her temperature.

'Oh no! If we don't find a priest and get her warm and dry soon, she'll lose the baby!' "Curse the fates!" Rusafa shouted to the sky. It was then that his ears picked up the sound of something sloshing through the waters close by. Turning to look over his shoulder to see a ship floating close by. "Hey!" he shouted, raising one arm while keeping the other wrapped around Kagome's still faintly glowing body. "Hey! Help! Over here! Over here!" 'We're saved!'

"All stop! Retract the sweeps! Lower a ladder!"

"Sir!" An Egyptian soldier came in to report the actions of the battle. "The Hittites are in orderly retreat."

Ramses hummed at the news. His eyes narrowed and a smirk lifted his lips. "Mursili seems to have cleared his head at last." He briefly wondered what could have caused the Hittite Emperor to lose his tactical mind for so long that it allowed him to get the upper hand. He crossed his arms over his wide chest and licked his lips, tasting a bit of dried blood.

"What should we do, sir?" the soldier asked. "If we pursue, we might find ourselves too deep in enemy territory."

"I know what Mursili is up to." Ramses said simply.

-With the Hittite troops-

Kail felt a cold sweat running down his spine as he realized what he must do to prevent a massive casualty of his men, He could not afford to lose anymore soldiers to Ramses' relentlessness. "All troops!" he called out; his eyes wary. "Withdraw immediately! We'll build a new defensive line midway between the palace and the Orontes!" He nodded when his main entourage called out his title. "Not a brilliant move, I know, but it's our best course. We'll position the bulk of our forces at the rear to buy time."

"Brother!" Mali voiced up loudly, placing his hand against his chest. "Let me command the rear guard!" He announced his guilt for letting Ishtar out of his sight eating at him. "Please! It's the best way I can serve Your Majesty!"

The Emperor saw the determined shine in his brother clear, green eyes and saw his father in them. He knew that Mali was also in turmoil because Kagome was lost on his watch and desperately wanted to make up for his error. "Very well, Mali." he relented. "You're in command." 'Will we be able to make up for my earlier inactions? I hate ceding the banks of the Orontes, but it's no longer a tenable position from which to defend Ugarit.' Kail clenched his hands into tight fists, closing his eyes as he drew in a shuddering breath. 'I'm sorry Kagome, but my nation requires my full attention.'

"Hold the Egyptian here, men!" Mali ordered, his stallion whinnying loudly as its hoofs stomped along the ground. "Even if they fall back, maintain your position!" the fifth prince grit his teeth as he thought about his failure to keep Ishtar safe from harm. He thought that she would be safe on the flagship, but apparently one of his soldiers defected to save his son. 'I know this cannot make up for my losing Princess Kagome, but I'll do my best. Will His Majesty...' He paused briefly, gripping his sword tightly. 'My brother... ever be able to forgive me?'

Ramses smirked. "See?" he replied simply, watching a bulk of the Hittites retreat. "He's trying to buy time."

The soldier grinned happily at the realization. "You're absolutely right, sir!"

"It'll cost you, Mursili! And I'll still chase you to the gates of Ugarit!"

The fifth prince spotted the Egyptian General near the frontlines of his troops and grit his teeth. He guided his horse over to where Ramses was and hopped off the beasts while it was still moving. "Ramses!" he growled out. "General User Ramses! You will advance no further!" Unsheathing his sword, Mali charged at the young General.

Ramses deflected the fifth prince's strike with his own blade, the tip catching Mali's cloak. "Ah," he hummed, "you must be Mursili's II younger brother." His head wrap fell off as he held his hand out when his soldiers cried out and was about to come to aid him. "Don't worry about me." The General took a step back and aimed his sword in Mali's direction. "I'm sorry, Young Prince. You are brave, but that does not change the fact..." he grabbed the young blond's wrist and swung his sword up and stabbed Mali in the abdomen, blood spurting out to coat his arm and the ground. "...that only your brother, Emperor Mursili II, is worthy to challenge me!"

"Prince Piyasili!"

Rusafa gently let Kagome roll out of his arms and onto the deck of the ship that had been kind enough to pick them up. He coughed up water that had gotten into his lungs when waves crashed over him when the ship came to a stop.

"Did your ship sink?" a man asked carefully as he patted Rusafa on the back. "You're lucky we happened to be passing by."

Kagome's soft moans caused the deputy to gasp and quickly rushed over to placed her against his lap. He thanked the man that brought thick blankets to cover them up with. Rusafa bundled Kagome up tightly in the warm sheet, rubbing her arms gently to try and dry her off. "I'm very grateful to you for saving us. Have you a physician aboard or a priest aboard?"

The man shook his head sadly. "No, I'm afraid we don't. Where are you two from, if I may ask?"

'I must take care in answering that. We are on the high seas, so these men could hail from anywhere. Until I know if they're friend or foe, I'll be obliged to keep our identities secret.' Rusafa looked around the ship and noticed some things about it that looked vaguely familiar. "To whom are we indebted. This appears to be a ship from Canaan."

"It is, indeed." another man boasted. "Canaanite ships are the best in the world."

Rusafa let out a small sigh of relief. 'Canaan. A neutral country. Perhaps they'll give us passage to an allied port.' He cringed slightly when Kagome's powers flared up again, causing the marking on her chest to flash brightly from underneath her blanket. He covered her up all the way up to her neck to hide the glow.

"Thanks to that our seafaring services are in great demand throughout the region."

"Is that right?" Rusafa said, a bit surprised at the notion.

"You bet!" the man boasted again. "Our current employer is..."

A voice interrupted the conversation between the Canaanite seamen from behind Rusafa. "Are these two the ones you rescued from the sea without my permission?"

"Oh captain." the Canaanite replied with a worried smile on his face. "The seaman's code requires we aid all castaways." he tried to remind the captain of the code of honor. It would have been cruel to leave such a young woman in the sea when her ship must have sunk beneath the dark, unforgiving sea.

"You men work for us..." the captain said, his voice gruff as he placed his hands on his hips. "...so, our ruled supersede your codes." Rusafa glanced over his shoulder to look at the men who had gathered behind him and saw that they were Egyptian soldiers. "And the first rule is no one is brought aboard one of our great Pharaoh's vessels without my permission."

The other Egyptians noticed Kagome and began leering at her. "Hey, look! A woman."

The captain silenced his men with a raised hand. He looked back down at the two stragglers. "I'll ask you myself. Where are you two from?"

Rusafa held Kagome tightly against his chest, ignoring the burning sensation that spread down his body from her out of control powers. His eyes took on a darkened glare when the Egyptian men began to make quiet comments about Kagome's beauty. 'We're on a ship chartered by the Egyptians! What rotten luck!' He swallowed thickly as he discreetly tried to shield Kagome's face with her blanket. 'From the stewpot into the fire! These Egyptians must not find out who we really are!'

Kagome's soft whimpers caught some of the Egyptians attention. "Oh..." one of the chimed. "She doesn't look well. Hand her over to us. We'll take care of her." He reached out for the miko, fingers barely touching the blanket that covered the young woman.

Rusafa quickly slapped the Egyptians hand away. "Don't you touch her!"

"Hmph!" the Egyptian said grumpily. "That's gratitude for you. You want us to throw you back in the sea!"

The miko suddenly lurched in Rusafa's arms. "It hurts!" she screamed out, her powers going haywire, the pure energy singed and healed Rusafa's hand repeatedly as they fluctuated from youki and reiki. "My baby...please don't take my baby..."

"Baby?"

"Is she your wife?"

A blush filled Rusafa's cheeks and spread over the bridge of his nose at the thought of Kagome being his wife. While he still harbored much love for the miko, he managed to keep it at loyalty level and would not dare to act upon his desires. "No, she's not!" He denied quickly with a shake of his head. "She's my..." Rusafa struggled to find the appropriate thing to say, "My little sister! I'm...I'm a merchant from Ugarit. I was taking her to her wedding when our ship when down."

"Merchant?" one of the Egyptians questioned. "You don't look like one."

Rusafa's hand clenched around his sword at his hip, stealthily untying it. "I've just taken over my father's business. Will you do me a favor?" he asked as he slowly removed his boot to hide his weapon inside. "Will you put in at a port in Ugarit and let us off? I'll make it worth your while."

"No can do. Our orders are to proceed directly to Byblos."

"Any diversion risks punishment."

The deputy's black eyes widened at their destination. "Byblos?" 'A city controlled by Egypt!'

The Egyptians laughed as they began to walk away. "If you don't like it, you can swim to Ugarit!"

Rusafa glared at the Egyptian soldiers, baring his teeth at them. He stopped when the Canaanite men placed a hand on his shoulder, causing him to look up. "Young man, I know for a fact that Byblos is closer than Ugarit."

"That's right." another agreed with a nod. "You want to get your sister to a doctor or priest as soon as possible, don't you?"

The deputy gazed down at the princess and saw the sweat dripping down her face as she tosses and twisted in his arms. He felt helpless as he could not protect her from the demons inside her body. The way she looked now made her seem fragile when Rusafa knew that Kagome was far from it. "Alright." he nodded, giving the Canaanites a firm look. 'I do need to get Princess Kagome to both a doctor and a priest! That has priority!' "Byblos it is! With all speed, please!"

Kagome panted harshly as blood dripped from the wound sliced across her arm. She could feel the poison that laced Ankoku's weapon course through her veins and causing her blood to feel like molten lava. Each breath she took felt heavy and was painful to do so. But she could not stop fighting. She could not allow the Shikon to take her baby! The miko wrapped her injured arm around her stomach protectively as she glared pure hatred at her possessed companion. Kagome hated that the youkai were using Ankoku as a median to claim her child. It pained her to fight someone she considered a dear ally. 'Don't you worry, Sweetheart. Mommy is going to protect you. You will be born surrounded by mine and your father's love. I promise you that.' She called upon her divine gift of lightning, the white-blue light zipping around her body in bright flashes.

"Seinaru inazuma!" Kagome pointed two fingers at Ankoku. "Kogeki!"

The hot energy left her fingertips and rushed towards the demoness at a blinding speed. It struck her in the chest and sent her flying back. Kagome released another clash of lightning at her downed body. When all the youkai did was twitch lightly as smoke covered her, partially masking her from Kagome's view. The priestess let out a ragged breath. It was over. She had won! Her baby was safe! The youkai of the Shikon would not be able to take her child if they did not have a vessel to control any more.

"I'm sorry, Ankoku. I did not want to hurt you, but I had to protect the life that is growing with me." Kagome sent a prayer towards her comrade, hoping that she would forgive her when she woke. Turning to walk away from the scene and leave the realm of the Shikon, Kagome froze when she heard laughter from behind her. "No..."

Ankoku laughed deep from her chest, the sound warped from the youkai that possessed her. Slowly, she rose back to her feet and opened her blood-red eyes to look at the drained miko. "Are you done, Higurashi Kagome?" she said as her painted lips curled into a cruel smile. The miko demoness held her scythe in front of her and released the shaft. The sharp blade began to straighten from its curved form and shifted into a spear. Grabbing the newly formed spear in her hands, Ankoku shot the stunned miko an arrogant smirk. "Then I shall collect the debt you owe the Shikon."

With those words, the demoness threw her spear with deadly accuracy at Kagome. Despite the miko's best actions to avoid the shard weapon, the blade followed her until it stabbed her though the back. Blood gushed out of the wound as Kagome let out a loud wail of anguish.

"NO!" she screamed; her watery eyes locked on the spear protruding from her belly as she fell to her knees. "My baby! Don't take my baby! Please don't take Kail's baby from me!"

At Kagome's sorrowful voice, Ankoku snapped out of the youkai's control briefly. She gasped at the sight before her. Kagome was impaled on her blade. What had she done? No. What had the youkai made her done? Ankoku never wanted to do this! Why was she forced to take the one thing that made a woman happy? Why? An image of her own daughter flashed through her mind and how happy she and Zannanza was when they found out they were pregnant. Why could the Shikon not just be happy being living with Kagome as their eternal guardian. If the Shikon no Miko were to die, it will just be reincarnated along with her soul.

"Lady Kagome...I'm so sorry..." Ankoku apologized before she felt her body being reclaimed by the youkai as they forced her to move to the fallen miko.

"Hey young man," A Canaanite spoke to Rusafa. "Come over here?" He ignored his demand of why and simply urged him over with his hand. When the dark-haired deputy was close, he pointed his finger to a shore not too far in the distance. "See? Right over there. That's Byblos."

"Really?!" Rusafa said happily. 'Yes! There must be doctors and priests there!'

Another Canaanite seaman rushed over to where Rusafa was standing. "Young man! Young man!" he called out in a worried tone. "I think your sister is in serious trouble!"

Rusafa rushed over to where Kagome was laying and saw that she was curled up in a ball with her arms wrapped tightly around her stomach. At first, the deputy could find nothing wrong with her until he spotted blood dripping down her leg, staining the white under skirt she was wearing a bright crimson. Rusafa's mouth dropped open as he could not figure out what was happening. Kagome should not be getting her monthly bleeding if she were pregnant. So why was she bleeding and what was it so much?

"She seems to be bleeding. If I were to guess, I'd say she's miscarrying!" the Canaanite said, his voice full of worry for the pretty young woman on the deck of the ship.

'Miscarrying...' "Please get us ashore!" Rusafa begged. "She needs a doctor now!"

Kagome felt tears rolled down her face as she bit her bottom lip. 'I'm sorry, Kail...I've failed...'

"Sir! The Egyptians have crossed the Orontes!"

"Your Majesty! The Egyptians are closing in on us from the rear!"

Kail's ocher eyes widened at the news. The Egyptians have gotten this close to them in such a short amount of time. They have not even begun to build their defensive line yet. "What?" he questioned. "Where's Mali. Isn't he commanding the rear guard?" No sooner than he said that, the Emperor could hear Kash's voice calling out to him and it caught his attention. "Kash! Mettannamuwa! What happened?

"Prince Piyasili is..." Kash trailed off as he gently pulled the injured young prince off the large chariot.

"What..." Kail questioned before shock entered his body at what he saw. "Mali!" he screamed when he saw the state his beloved younger brother was in. His usually neat, long blond hair that he would keep tied back in a low ponytail was flying wildly around his head. Blood seeped through the bandages that were wrapped tightly around his lean body and stained the bottom of his battle robe. Mali coughed, red life-giving fluid spattered out and dripped down his chin. Kail rushed over to his brother as fast as he could when Kash and Mettannamuwa placed him on a blanket, "Mali! My God, those wounds! What happened?!

Mettannamuwa was ashamed to tell what happened to the young fifth prince. He should have done a better job in protecting him He should be the one with the sword wound to the lungs, struggling to breath. "Prince Piyasili was felled by the sword of General Ramses." He cringed slightly when the young prince drew in another shuddering breath that turned into a hacking fit. This should have been him, dammit.

Mali finished his coughing and weakly opened his foggy green eyes. "My brother..." he lifted his hand when Kail reached out for it, "My brother, please forgive me for dying before I could atone..."

"Atone?" Kail questioned loudly, grabbing his brother's hand tightly in his. "For what, Mali?! You have nothing to atone for!"

The fifth Prince smiled, albeit forced and caused him to grimace. "I assure you, brother. Ishtar..." he took another ragged breath, sweat dripping from his forehead from the pain and fever that wreaked through his body. His eyes slowly began to lose their playful green glow, becoming dulled. "Your Princess Kagome will be back soon..." Tears began to swell in his eyes as his pupils dilated. "I will be watching the passageway to the other world...and when I see Ishtar, I will bar her way...and tell her to return to you..." His grip on his brother's hand weakened as his life was fading away. "My only regret is... that I won't be able to see...your first child...my niece or nephew..." With those final words, Prince Mali Piyasili if the Hittite Empire, Mayor of Carchemish passed away in Kail's arms.

"MALI!" Kail screamed out, cursing the fates for taking Kagome away from them. She could have healed Mali's wounds and saved his life. She could have saved him from the pain of losing another beloved brother. He'd already lost his older brother to Urhi, lost Zannanza due to Nakia's lies, and now he'd lost Mali to Ramses.

A soldier rushed in and quickly dropped to his knees at the sight of everyone paying their deepest respect to the fallen prince. "I have a report for His Majesty! The Egyptians are closing in! Do we Stand? Retreat? What are your orders?!"

Thoughts ran through everyone's mind. With Prince Piyasili gone, they were short of commanders. If they did not hold the Egyptian here, they will be a stone's throw from Ugarit. Kail has gotten them out tighter spots before. They all held their breaths at just how the Emperor would react. Would he fall apart like he did when the news of Kagome being missing hit him or would he be the strong commander they knew him to be?

"Very well!" Kail announced, rising to his feet. "I will assume command..." he felt a sudden wave of dizziness hit him as nausea struck him. The blond quickly covered his mouth as his stomach began to lurch, causing him to dry heave painfully. He wrapped and arm around his stomach when it heaved again and caused him to double over.

"Your Majesty!" Kash called out, worriedly.

Kikkuri walked over and placed his hand against Kail back, patting softly when the Emperor continued to heave. "What's wrong, sir? Are you ill?"

Kail coughed before spitting out the small bit a bile that rose in his throat. "Just had a touch of nausea."

"The Egyptian will be upon us, sir!" the soldier repeated. "Our defensive line isn't ready!"

"I know," Kail said as he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. He waved off Kash's concerned look. "I'm alright."

Kikkuri stood close by in case Kail needed him. "Your Majesty, shouldn't we retreat?" His eyes widened to show their dark, russet-brown color when Kail started another bout of dry heaves so strong it caused the Emperor to drop to his knees. "He is ill!" the servant cried out a he reached out to catch the falling Ruler.

Kash immediately began barking out orders. "Retreat! We're pulling back to the palace at Ugarit!"

Sweat rolled down Kail's face as he tried to stand to his feet once more. "I'm fine." he reassured his squad. "Let me command..." he felt his stomach roll and lurched again, causing him to cover his mouth to prevent anything from coming up.

"All units form up and retire in order!" Kash ordered out.

Since becoming Emperor, Kail Mursili II has never experienced as terrible a setback as this. Kail felt his fever rise as a cold sweat broke out over his body. 'We've lost the battle...'

Hello, Beautiful People! Happy New Year and welcome to the first chapter of 2020! I hope everyone had a blessed holiday! If you're wondering why I'm so happy is that I have finally been accepted into Veterinary School! I start in the Fall! But I'm still in the process of getting my Graduate's Degree so updates may still be slightly slower than usual. I assure you that none of my stories will be abandoned! I strive to finish most if not all of them. I hope that I haven't lost any of my beloved reader due to this extremely long hiatus and I hope you enjoyed this newest Chapter!

Ja ne

~Kirei Ai Tenshi

~Special Thanks~

TsukiyoTenshi: I felt so horrible writing it, but it must be done. But fear not, the Shikon will not obtain Kagome's baby's soul. Not if Fate has anything to do with it!

Yan gomez: No yo soy hablo Español. Lo siento. Gracias.

xlove-kawaix: Actually, Ankoku did not make the wish, Kagome did. Ankoku gave up a portion of her soul for the light of the Shikon to burn pure so that her mistress would not be tainted. Since the Jewel can no longer use Kagome's soul as a surrogate for Midoriko, they want her first-born child so that they can have a soul to fight with for the next millennia.

Two Sided Heart: You're very welcome! I'm glad my story brings you so much joy!

itachisdbzgurl: As much as it killed me to write it, the Shikon does success in causing the miscarriage, but with Fate's intervention, they may not be able to take the unborn child's soul.

Blind Gnome: Yes indeed. Our poor miko was built to be a mother and now she is going to be denied it once again due to the Shikon. She tried her best to fight off the Shikon, but their darkness was too strong even for Ankoku to defy.

The Blue Insanity 8500: Kagome tried her best to fight off the youkai as they possessed Ankoku to do their dirty work. But a Dark Shikon possessed Ankoku proved to be too strong for even Kagome's reiki. Remember she may be a strong warrior miko, but she was untrained in her miko abilities. She self-taught herself purification through the meditations that Kaede and Miroku showed her before the war on Naraku. She mostly focused on the healing aspect of her training so that she could more useful in combat.

kakashixangela: Kagome will be broken for a little while and enter a state of depression as all women who suffer miscarriages do, but our Kagome is strong. She has the support of many of her friends and the love of her life to focus on getting back to. While she will grieve in her heart, she will force herself to make it back to Kail even if she must die trying (not literally lol)

HadrianSlytherinPeverell: Ankoku is the biggest supporter of Kagome's relationship with Kail though. So, I don't understand how she is a home wreaker. It is not her wish to take Kagome's child from her, but it is the demands of the Shikon no Tama. She was created by the youkai, so she can only defy them for so long until they force their desires on her. Ankoku is a part of the Shikon as much as she is a part of Kagome.

Guest (leave a name next time so I can properly thank you!): I'm so glad that you gave my crossover a chance!

While Kagome is physically all trained up by Sesshoumaru and Sango, she is still lacking in her miko abilities since she was self-taught on her purification side (she spent the two years trying to open the well studying on her miko skills). Healing she has down pack due to Kaede and Miroku.

I'm so sorry that Ankoku came off as an evil OC but hopefully you kept reading to see the changes that happened with miko demoness as she fell in love with Zannanza and tried to help Kagome realize her feelings for Kail. And yeah, Ankoku is going to be around for the remainder of the story as I have plans for her as well.

To be honest Fate, Akihiko and Kazuhiko were added to the story due to a friend of mine, whom I've lost contact with, So you should not worry about seeing them too often as Kagome is gaining more and more control over own fate and destiny.

Again, thank you for giving my story a chance and hope you enjoyed reading the rest of the story and the new chapter!