Chapter 54: Naraku

"So, what will you do, almighty Sesshomaru, as I take what I rightfully wanted?" Naraku asked, pulling Kaori to his level by her neck. She was still knocked out, so she wasn't struggling.

"You won't," Sesshomaru hissed. Kagome stood up from behind Sesshomaru as well as Sango and Miroku. Even small Shippo stood tall, his chest puffed out. "We won't let you."

"And what can two stupid demons and humans do? I doubt much," Naraku said, pushing Kaori against a tree trunk. She remained knocked out. "You'll watch, in horror, as I take Kaori as my mate and my wife. And she will bear my child."

A chuckle was heard that turned into laughter. Kaori couldn't stop herself, her eyes closed as her head remained hung. "Your mate? Your wife? Sorry to break your bubble, but I already have perfectly fine one," Kagome snapped as her eyes opened into a glare. "And, sorry to inform you, I'm already pregnant."

This was news for everyone, even Sesshomaru, but this news also angered Naraku. "Already pregnant? By what asshole?" Naraku growled.

"Who do you think, Naraku? Sesshomaru," Kaori told Naraku.

"No, I cannot allow it! I'll... I'll just kill the child!" Naraku declared and Kaori's eyes went wide. "And if I must, you as well. If I can't have you, no one will!"

Kaori's eyes went wide as well as everyone else's. They didn't all think Naraku would try to kill her. Naraku strengthened his hold on Kaori's neck and lifted her up higher, so much that she was struggling for air. "S... t... op... Ple.. hease..." Kaori pleaded.

"No, " Naraku told her. He sensed the anger raise around him and knew one demon was about to transform. Naraku whirled around so Kaori was in front of Naraku, but Sesshomaru had already become a dog. "Come for me, Sesshomaru. And kill your wife with your own hand." A whine was heard from Sesshomaru, leaning backwards, more on his hind legs than his front. "Pathetic."

Sesshomaru fell sideways as dozens of blades hit him. Kagura chuckled. Nothing would ruin Naraku's plan.

"RELEASE ME, BITCH!" Naraku suddenly exclaimed and everyone, including a dizzy Inuyasha looked at Naraku. A pink light was shining from Naraku's back.

"No," Kaori wheezed, and felt Naraku increase his hold on her neck, causing her to gasp. "You will never succeed in killing my husband. Your life ends now, Naraku. Burn in... (wheeze) hell."

The pink light got brighter, so much that Sesshomaru had to put a paw over his eyes and everyone else turned away. Once it disappeared, only a black, almost completed Sacred Jewel and an arrow remained. Kaori stood in one piece, swaying. Sesshomaru reverted to humanoid form and ran to Kaori's side as she collapsed. He held her bridal style and watched Kagome pick up the Sacred Jewel. It was purified instantly. He reverted his gaze to Kaori. Would she be all right?