Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or any of its characters they are the property of Rumiko Takahashi. This story was written for the purposes of entertainment and I by no means will profit from the story other than the satisfaction of exercising my imagination and writing abilities.


Chapter 27: Annihilation of Enmity

A streak of light flashed across the darkened sky. A loud roar of thunder soon answered its brother's silent call. Rain fell in heavy sheets. In the midst of the squall three figures stood in the open clearing. Two reluctant allies faced a single foe whose reason for enmity towards the hanyou was still unknown. Both canines could only guess at what this demoness hoped to gain from their demise. In the end the two uneasy comrades knew it didn't matter, because her posturing was in vain.

Emerald eyes revealed nothing but her animosity for the silver haired offspring of her master's bane. Long had the stories of his parent's treachery circulated amongst her kind and for just as long the couple had been despised. The canine demon and the priestess had both fallen. The human bitch had even managed to take one of their revered generals and his army. Their souls locked in an endless struggle inside the Shikon no Tama. The Inu Lord had fallen as well, he had succumbed to wounds inflicted by Lord Usotuski's oldest and dearest ally. Unfortunately that brave demon had as well. His sacrifice had not been forgotten, just as it had not been in vain. Now only the hanyou remained.

This bastard child of their disgraceful union somehow managed to survive after supposedly being sealed by a miko's spell over fifty years ago. Ansatsusha knew better than to believe such nonsense. That story was in all likelihood just another ploy concocted by the dishonorable Inu Clan to save this unholy creature before her. She believed it was as false as the Vendetta his half brother had used for so long to protect this tainted creature. Unfortunately there had been no real proof, just suspicions. None of that mattered now that she had her quarry before her, at long last this saga would be at an end.

Looking at him now she saw nothing special. He was a feral looking beast at best. A taiyoukai and a mortal miko should have known better than to participate in such an illicit coupling. The code of honor that bound all the taiyoukai had been set forth thousands of years ago. It was true that lesser youkai all too often practiced just that sort of sordid affair, but they didn't live within the established guidelines. The land was littered with their unfortunate children. Before her stood one that in her mind should never have come into existence; the bastard son of that conniving priestess.

Yes the female human was surprisingly intelligent for one of that inferior species. That made her all the more diabolical a creature. Midoriko had wormed her way into Lord Usotsuki's heart and driven him mad with her teasing ways. The devious chit had almost blinded him as she had this half breed's sire. Her proud master had almost fallen into her trap, and for that the mortal woman and her overly infatuated lover were killed; she for her treachery and he for his folly. The only remaining survivor from their ill-begotten tryst was standing here before her, his doom closer than he realized.

Emerald eyes remained fixed on her true target. In her mind there was no need to worry about the wolf. In a matter of moments neither would be nothing more than a memory. The assassin trusted her confederates implicitly. They were experts at concealment. She knew just because she couldn't sense them she knew intuitively that they were there waiting for the right moment. Everything was going according to plan and in a moment both canines would be dead.

Then she heard the faintest of thuds. Keen eyes didn't miss the faint twitch of a snow white ear. She cursed inwardly as both canines looked in the direction of the small noise. Later she would discover what the hell had just happened. Right now she needed to focus their attention back on her.

Satsujinsha inwardly cursed his foolishness. A moment after he had flicked the small corpse away he had heard the faint sound of the parasite's body hitting a tree. Across from him he could see the unmistakable look of confused annoyance in his brother's jade eyes.

Koroshi fought the urge to swear when he heard the almost indistinct sound. He had heard it and he had looked to his brother to see if he too had heard the faint noise. The emotions reflected in the pair of saffron eyes across the clearing spoke volumes. There was yet another problem that would have to be dealt with. First, they would have to deal with the canines that stood unwittingly between him and his brother.

Unfortunately it appeared that their prey had heard the muted noise as well. He could feel the surge of adrenaline rush through his veins both intended victims began to turn their heads almost simultaneously towards where his brother waited hidden in the shadows. Instinctively he crouched lower on his haunches, gathering his power to spring from his location. A sultry feminine voice stilled his motions as it caught the attention of the dog and the wolf once again.

"You sound sure of yourself." The demoness purred in a timbre different than the mellifluous angel song she had previously used. The pitch though deeper was still every bit feminine but it no longer sounded saccharine sweet, but rather it reverberated with the sultry tones of a seductress. Her gem colored eyes shimmered with animosity inspired both by her musings on Inuyasha's heritage as well as his prior statement; "Oh yeah, well it's going to take more than you to take me out." His bravado infuriated her senses, but she was not foolish enough to give in to the rising need to teach him a lesson. Her part in this play was regrettably clear. She was to be the decoy. "You sure don't look like much from here, especially since you're not protected by your brother anymore." She taunted.

Amber eyes widened. Frustration welled within him. Even now, in the face of this unknown enemy, his brother managed to plague his every moment. "My brother never protected me." He snarled as he unsheathed his sword and charged at the astounded temptress. The words were out and the aguish of his heart was in the open, forced from its confines by this stranger.

Her callously spoken words had ignited the powder keg of conflicting emotions within him. It had been days since he had a true enemy to fight and he was more than ready to do so. Unwittingly she had supplied him with an easy target for his pent-up physical frustration. Her ill chosen jeers had turned this into something more; a battle royal for the truth. For days Inuyasha had been grappling with this problem alone in his head, now he had been provided with a venue. He knew he wasn't going to find the answers anytime soon, but at the very least he could direct the repressed physical need for a good fight those thoughts of his brother inspired. And maybe, just maybe after this was over he'd be able to look at things more clearly.

The hanyou's explosion of feeling caught more than one neko off guard. Koroshi wasn't prepared for the Inu-hanyou's reaction to his lover's last taunt. Watching him with the wolf had given them a false impression on how the dog eared fool would react. Unlike the confrontation with the wolf the hanyou hadn't taken the time to exchange barbs and had unexpectedly launched an offensive assault. Ancient primal instincts to protect what was his compelled the muscle bound cat into action. He lunged from his hiding place only to have his outstretched claws slice through the air. Inuyasha had managed to elude him by a fraction of a second. Jade eyes widened in anguish as he watched the silver haired mongrel swing his sword and unleash a blaze of energy towards the copper-haired siren. Ansatsusha barely managed to jump out of the way of the lethal energy. The sandy-haired demon let out the breath he didn't realize he had been holding.

While the infatuated male was momentarily preoccupied on his missed prize and his current mate, Koga reacted to this intruder with his usual lightening speed. In less than a blink of an eye the pony-tailed hero landed a well placed kick to the newest arrival's gut. The large cat doubled over as surprised jade eyes clashed with glittering blue ones as each opponent briefly acknowledged the other. Energized with adrenaline, Koga swung his left arm hoping to connect with the chiseled chin of this coward. A seasoned fighter, Koroshi was not an adversary easily surprised twice. He knew what was coming and managed to tuck and roll forward, almost knocking the quick footed wolf over. Koga managed to hurdle his adversary's defensive move. The foes spun around and faced each other now oblivious to the actions of the female neko and the silver haired hanyou.

Koga cracked his knuckles as he assessed the creature before him. This latest opponent looked lethal enough but the wolf wasn't about to be intimidated by some muscle-bound cat that hid in the shadows. If the fool felt the need to send in a mere female to distract them while he did the dirty work there couldn't be too much to this foe other than his looks. "Hiding behind the skirts of a female, how pathetic" Koga stated coldly his cerulean eyes glittering with hatred, "how many others you got in those bushes?"

"It won't matter if there is one or a hundred wolf," Koroshi sneered, "since I'm going to kill you." He cracked his knuckles as he stared into determined blue eyes. A smile of anticipation graced his lips; battle was as intoxicating to him as alcohol. He lived for the feel of a good fight and he was certain he was going to get his fair share today. The wolf carried no weapon that he could see. Until one was produced he would fight honorably with his hands. This was going to be interesting.

Koga moved swiftly. Jade eyes widened in surprise at the speed of this pony-tailed assailant. The first time he had been too worried about Ansatsusha to notice the velocity the wolf traveled at. Once more the large cat found himself doubled over from a kick to the gut. Koga spun around after having landed the first blow and landed another kick to the sandy-haired foe's head sending him staggering backwards into a puddle of muddy rainwater.

"I think you'd better call those reinforcements." Koga stated as he charged the fallen neko.

Koroshi leapt to his feet and wiped the mud out of his eyes in time to catch Koga's leg with both hands before the wolf could do any more damage. Holding firmly the cat spun around before he released his hold sending the wolf crashing into a tree near where his brother still kept his place.

Satsujinsha had not yet made his presence known. Things may not have gone as originally planned, but he was now their fail safe. Discipline alone kept him in his place. The primal instincts within him yearned to leap into the fray, but he steadfastly kept his place hidden amongst the shadows, waiting for the moment when he would be needed. He watched as the wolf leapt back into the struggle with his brother and then he turned his attention to the true prize…Inuyasha.

Amber eyes blazed with fury as Inuyasha watched as his foe leapt to safety. He was more than well aware of the newest arrival into the fray, but he had every faith that his dark haired companion was more than able to hold his own. Koga's speed and agility would see to that. Once he finished off this talkative tigress he would take care of her sneaky comrade. At the moment he didn't care what their motives were for wanting him dead. It was enough to know that they did.

"Well it looks like you came with your own protection." Inuyasha sneered. "So how much more help do you have, because whoever else you've got hiding isn't going to be enough."

Emerald eyed sparkled with a mixture of emotions, surprise not being the least of them. The attack was only half unexpected. This deadly predator had learned long ago not to underestimate her foe. Because of this she was able to narrowly miss being obliterated. What truly amazed this seasoned warrior was the level of power and skill that this mongrel possessed. Ansatsusha knew that this could only mean that someone had taken great pains to ensure her adversary's training. This lethal demoness had seen many battles, faced many opponents and was by no means a creature of limited intellect. The level of power this vile half breed was capable of did not just come from battling; no someone had to have shown him. Gem colored eyes reflected the derision and animosity she felt for the deceitful Inus. In her mind she had just witnessed proof of what they had believed all along; the Vendetta was indeed nothing more than a farce to keep this worthless being alive.

"It seems elder brother has taken care of your training, hanyou." The last word was spoken as a curse.

Inuyasha chose to ignore the last comment and the accusations held within her hypnotic eyes. He wasn't going to deal with any thoughts of his brother right now. Whoever this wench was, she could believe whatever she wanted, but the angry dog hanyou wasn't going to listen to anything this cat had to say. Without another thought he slashed again with his sword.

This time she was ready for his attack. Green eyes blazed as from seemingly from thin air she produced a staff which she twirled before her, creating a whirlwind of energy that reached out and met Inuyasha's blast sending it back at him. Amber eyes widened in disbelief and he leapt up into the air as the energy he released tore up ground beneath him and continue towards the only assistance he had at the moment.

"Koga!" he yelled and the wolf was alerted to the energy that was hurtling towards him. The shards once again granted him the speed he needed to escape with his life.

Satsujinsha cursed as he was now forced to leave his hiding spot. He leapt into the clearing where Inuyasha and Koga now stood back to back flanked on three sides by this small band of assassins.

"No wonder she talked so tuff." Inuyasha muttered, "I'll bet these woods are just crawling with cats.

"And they don't seem to like you very much. That says something for them." Koga replied, keeping with the usual banter that the two of them often engaged in.

"Whose side are you on?" Inuyasha demanded as he rose to the bait.

"Same side as always, mine. Right now that means I have to work with you."

Inuyasha merely nodded at this last statement, thankful that at least the wolf wasn't trying to pretend anything was different. No, thankfully their relationship had remained the same. They were both warriors on the same side but that didn't mean they had to like each other to get the job done. Rivals as always, this was just another contest to prove that he was indeed a more skilled fighter than the mangy wolf.

Emerging from his hiding spot from beneath a pile of leaves, the balding parasite sighed in relief. Ancient eyes looked on the battle scene, more concisely at the two males he had never seen before. If his information was correct one of them was Ansatsusha's current lover and judging from the looks of both a particularly dangerous one at that. Inuyasha and Koga were indeed a formidable pair of warriors but experience told him that the three youkai they faced were seasoned deadly assassins. Lord Usotsuki would only send his best for a mission such as this.

Myouga wasted no time dallying about this place. Too much time had been lost by his most unfortunate capture and his subsequent 'death'. Long ago he had realized that when the opportunity to run was denied him playing possum worked just as well. He didn't get to be as old as was without a couple of tricks up his sleeves. This time was no exception.

When the assassin squished him with his fingers he made sure to give every indication of a dead insect. He didn't talk or utter a sound, instead he concentrated all his efforts and energy on holding his new shape. He was well aware of the keen feline eyes that observed him closely. The tiny demon knew that if he failed to convince this neko of his demise he would be done for. And truth be told he simply wasn't ready to die there was still too much in this world to do. Apparently his act work as the cat gave him a flick that sent him flying into a tree. Despite the pain that racked his entire body he knew he couldn't call out in any way shape or form.

It wasn't until he landed in the pile of leaves that he felt at ease. He knew it was a only a matter of time before this warrior would leave his post, and then he would make his move. The unfortunate side effect of this alternate plan was that moments were ticking a way, precious moments that could very well be the difference between life for death for his friends. If only they had listened to him. Muttering to himself about stubborn hanyous and foolish wolves out to prove themselves, he made his way back to the others.

Time wasn't the flea's only enemy at the moment. The weather did not make the going any easier as he raced as quickly as he could back to the others to fetch aid for the pair in peril. The rain and wind both worked against him. The forest life had sensed the cats and their purpose and had wisely hidden themselves thus leaving the small would-be messenger without anyone to assist him in accomplishing his mission sooner.

By the time the miniscule herald reached the group he was breathless, frantic and frustrated to find the barrier once more erected at the cave's opening. Tiny fists flailed against the energy in a valiant attempt to gain the attention of those within that were engrossed in their training. He knew that his efforts could very well be for naught with the storm raging as it was there was little hope that even Sesshomaru's keen hearing would be able to discern his struggles over the din.

However his efforts were not in vain. The ever alert taiyoukai felt the tiny poundings and was almost immediately aware that something other than raindrops was pushing against his barrier. Golden eyes spied the small parasite and noticed the panic stricken look on the guardian's tiny face. The barrier was immediately released and the tiny harbinger fell forward sputtering "Inuyasha…nekos…"

Sesshomaru's full attention was on the small insect gasping for breath. Surely he had heard wrong, but he knew he hadn't. "How many?"

"Three…at least…" It wasn't necessary for Myouga to say anything more Sesshomaru knew what this meant. The others however were at a loss, all eyes turned to the Lord of The West who stood silently before the little flea. The facial change was subtle as amber eyes narrowed slightly revealing his displeasure at the two words the tiny vassal had gasped out.

"What's going on?" Kagome asked concerned. Anger and dread were rolling off Sesshomaru in waves. Apprehension filled the human miko's heart when the taiyoukai simply ignored her question altogether and looked past her into the deeper recesses of the cave.

"Jaken." The name was spoken in tones of command and the green retainer had already grabbed his staff and was rushing to be by Sesshomaru's side.

"Yes, milord?" Jaken had also heard the flea's words but unlike the others he had an inkling what was going on. He knew that his master was none too pleased with what they all had just heard. It was also no secret to any in the demon world that there was great animosity between the nekos of the east and the inus of the west. However he was fairly certain that all that had been laid aside for the moment. If the small imp judged by the ancient advisor's agitated state whatever was happening wasn't good.

"Inconsiderate creatures,"Jaken thought to himself, "so much at stake…"

"Summon him." Sesshomaru stated in clipped tones as the taiyoukai fought to keep control of his anger. He couldn't let it get the better of him. Not now at this crucial time he had to keep his wits about him if he was to deal with this in anyway that would both defend his brother and not alienate those that they needed to destroy the jewel. He cursed inwardly.

Only one thing was clear at this time; the lives of the nekos involved depended upon their actions. Their future was entirely in their own hands and he hoped that they would give him a reason to kill them, each and every one of them. He would take delight in presenting their heads to their lord when he arrived. He would much rather do that than remand them over to Lord Usotsuki's custody and hope that the cat would honor their treaty.

The command was vague to the other's present but the loyal vassal knew exactly what to do. With another, "yes milord" he was headed out into the squall to do his master's bidding. There was no muttering or complaint about the weather that would pass his lips or enter his thoughts at the moment. Loyalty and obedience were needed at this time of crisis and the imp would do no less.

"Stay here. Jaken will return momentarily and seal the cave once again." The taiyoukai stated to the others and stalked towards to the entrance.

"Wait!" Kagome cried frustrated at both his abruptness and vagueness. It didn't take a rocket scientist to tell that something was wrong, but she wasn't going to let him leave without telling them what it was and bringing them along with. After all they were in this together. And it was obvious that Inuyasha was in trouble. "We're going with you."

Sesshomaru sighed inwardly and cursed. This was not the time for Kagome's loyalty and sense of justice. He didn't know how many demons there were nor did he care; the humans were to stay put. Inuyasha would be all the help he needed, and possibly the wolf if he managed to come across Koga. He wasn't about to risk her welfare by dragging her not only into a battle with very lethal demons but into the weather as well. Humans were such susceptible creatures he wasn't about to risk her falling ill from exposure.

"Miko, there is no time to argue, nor are you and your friends prepared to deal with this foe. This is a family matter." And with that he was gone.

Kagome watched him go, conflicting emotions warring within her. Part of her felt betrayed that he thought so little of her abilities and part of her was hurt because he didn't confide in her. There was an even larger part of her heart that felt warmed by his emotions and protectiveness of his brother. Whatever was going on he intended to be by Inuyasha's side. Maybe this would be the time that Inuyasha would finally see that Sesshomaru was for real.

However touching that last thought was Kagome wasn't about to let it lie. It was obvious that Inuyasha was in trouble. Anyone with eyes and ears could see that. All she needed to know right now was where he was. She did not intend to sit in the cave and hope everything was all right. Right now it didn't even matter that she would be going against Sesshomaru's express command that they stay put. She hadn't come back from the future to sit and wait in some cave while her friend was in trouble. No, she was going to do as she had always done since she'd been here and she was going to help in any small way she could. And now even more than ever before she had a confidence that she could make a difference.

Midnight met brown and violet then. She nodded grimly to both. It was evident on their faces that they thought just like she did. Sesshomaru could be dealt with later when everything was settled; right now all that mattered was getting to Inuyasha.

"Myouga where is he?" she questioned taking no pains to hide her annoyance.

The flea took another gulp of air and tried to slow his beating heart. He had accomplished his goal. Sesshomaru was heading out to aid Inuyasha; there was no need to involve the humans in this battle. Besides, Sesshomaru had implicitly told them to stay out of it.

"Kagome," he began in a placating although breathless voice, "Sesshomaru will take care of it. We should wait here where it's safe." The small flea had a remarkable sense of self preservation. He wasn't going to act willingly against the taiyoukai's pointed orders.

"You little coward" Sango cried as she scooped up the small parasite, "Tell us where Inuyasha is."

"Now, now Sango…" the flea pleaded but was interrupted by the monk who was just as forceful and earnest as the ladies had been if not more.

"You better tell the ladies what they want to know." Miroku demanded. Violet eyes reflected the monk's determination. Inuyasha was one of the few friends he had managed to make and he wasn't about to sit and wait to see if he was okay. They had fought by his side thus far and he didn't intend for today to be any different, especially since Miroku knew that nothing would have kept the hot headed hanyou from any of them in such a situation. It was more urgent today since they all knew what nightfall would bring.

"Now, if you all would just calm down and just listen…" the flea said as he tried to gather his courage. He understood their feelings. He just wished he was powerful enough to make them see reason. In all his years on this earth he had rarely witnessed the devotion that this group had for one another. It may have touched his heart but right now it was misplaced. Unfortunately for him there was no one to save him. He looked at the faces of the small children and only saw avid interest and a little bit of fear. And an idea struck him.

"No, you listen," Kagome interrupted angrily, "if you don't tell us we're going to head out there anyways. We know enough to look for cats; I'm sure Kirara can find them even in all this. And we're taking you with us. There's no way you're going to stay in this cave while Inuyasha's in trouble."

"Kirara," Sango called out.

At the sound of her name spoken in her mistress's urgent voice the cream colored cat erupted in the familiar flames and once again a formidable demon stood ready for battle. Just as quickly the three humans scrambled onto her back, the flea grasped securely in the taijiya's hands, his pleas completely ignored.

"Surely you're not taking the children out into this weather?" Myouga gasped out in alarm. He hoped that their concern for the welfare of the youngsters would at least tempter their desire to charge into a battle they knew nothing about.

"Shippo, Rin, you two stay here with Ah Un." Kagome bade, certain that the children were safe in the confines of the cave; besides, Ah Un was a more than capable babysitter. She wasn't about to bring the two youngsters out into this kind of weather nor to a battle if she didn't have to, but she wasn't going to be deterred from her intention, nor were the others. If she had to judge by Sesshomaru's reaction to Myouga's vague warning she was certain whatever Inuyasha was dealing with was something that he couldn't handle alone.

The two children simply nodded in return as they watched the others take off into the storm. This wasn't anything novel to either youngster. Right now, being in the cave with Ah Un and each other was the best place to be. They trusted that the others would be back soon.

Kagome cast one last look at the pair of them huddled in the corner of the cave and smiled reassuringly at them as she and the others set off into the storm. The rain was cold against their skin especially so after leaving the relative warmth of their shelter. The wind was brutal. It was hard enough just being out there without having to think about fighting. The sound of a voice caught her attention as she strained to see through the rain who it was that was calling after then. For a moment she thought Shippo had changed his mind and wanted to tag along, but then she saw the small figure holding a staff standing on the mountainside a few yards above the entrance of the cave.

"Foolish humans come back!" The small retainer called as he watched the trio leave atop the fire cat. "Do not be rash! Lord Sesshomaru will not be pleased.! He has enough to worry about with his ungrateful brother he can't take care of you as well!"

Yellow eyes squinted against the rain and wind hoping that they would listen to reason but knowing that they wouldn't. He was thankful that they didn't involve Rin in this ill advised adventure of theirs. Grudgingly he admitted to himself that their loyalty to his master's younger brother was not something he expected from humans, but this impetuousness… Jaken wondered what Sesshomaru would think. He had been by the taiyoukai's side for many years and he was almost certain that his liege would not be happy to see them.

Almost…

Earlier today his lordship had surprised him and the imp had spent the better part of the morning wondering at the change. Never in the time that he traveled alongside the stoic scion had he been reprimanded with something like sensitivity. Which led his thoughts to the taijiya and her words; he couldn't count the number of mortals who had met their end for less. Sesshomaru not only allowed her to live but he had gone out of his way to patiently explain to the female warrior about his heritage.

A bolt of lightening and a clap of thunder pulled him for these distracting thoughts and reminded him that he was still outside in the cold and rain. With another glance at the darkened sky Jaken let out a snort and headed back to the cave. The impetuous humans would not only have to face the nekos but they would have to answer to Sesshomaru as well.

At the moment a certain flea was being interrogated as the trio of humans rushed to the aide of their colleague. It wasn't enough that the wind was blowing the rain the speed at which Kirara was traveling sent the raindrops stinging into his skin. All the small guardian wanted at the moment was to crawl into the safety of Kirara's fur. Sango however hadn't loosened her grip on his body nor was she likely to as they seemed hell bent on getting some answers.

"So what's going on?" Kagome asked from her spot behind Sango.

Self preservation was an instinct well practiced by this ancient creature. There was nothing to do at the moment but to answer their questions. "Three nekos ambushed Inuyasha and Koga." He yelled hoping that they could hear him over the storm.

"Koga?" Kagome asked. Her anxiety easing just slightly upon hearing that the wolf was with Inuyasha. It gave her some amount of relief to know that one of the people she cared greatly for hadn't been battling alone for God knew how long. The two didn't always see eye to eye but she knew that they would fight side by side just as they had done before.

"Yes, Inuyasha ran into him before the nekos attacked. One of them tried to kill me to prevent me from getting help." The small captive complained as he remembered the rough treatment he received at the hands of one of the thugs.

"Nekos? Like the ones we fought before?" Sango asked as she regarded the small being held tight in the palm of her hand.

"Those were panther demons from the west, from across the sea. These are Cat demons from the Eastern Lands controlled by Lord Usotsuki." Myouga explained.

"But the Vendetta…" Kagome cried. "If they're from Japan they have to know about the Vendetta."

The minuscule vassal audibly gulped at this. Inuyasha had made it abundantly clear that he wasn't to say anything about the Vendetta to them. It didn't matter if he agreed with the hanyou's wishes or not he had an obligation to abide by them. It seemed his brother had been as well. But now he knew it was just a matter of time before one of the three figured out what was going on. All of them were very astute and right now that was not an attribute in his favor.

Miroku craned his neck around to regard the small youkai that his love held before her. Violet eyes narrowed as he regarded the old demon. He had heard enough of this clan to know that they would not touch Inuyasha because of the Brother's Vendetta. He wondered if that was why Sesshomaru was so angry. He hoped that he hadn't been wrong about Sesshomaru's intentions. "That's right; with Sesshomaru's claim on Inuyasha's life they shouldn't have traveled so far to kill him. That would go against their code." The pony-tailed monk stated.

Myouga gulped again at this, earning him more than a curious look from the monk. "What?" Miroku demanded. The monk knew there was more to this than what had been said and the monk intended to get to the bottom of this.

Myouga averted his eyes from the monk's penetrating violet gaze. Just then another bolt of lightening lit up the sky and surrounding area. The clearing was in view. They had arrived and none too soon for the flea's comfort. If they found out more it would be after the battle and he wouldn't be the one to face Inuyasha's wrath.

"There they are!" He cried excitedly pointing to the figures in the clearing below where the Kirara was flying. The cat had already begun her descent into the fray but the others had not noticed as they were involved with questioning their small friend. The question of the Vendetta had wholly distracted their thoughts from their surroundings, but now upon seeing figures embroiled in a struggle below their attention was refocused to the pressing matter at hand.

Four pairs of anxious eyes were met with a most distressing sight. Through the heavy sheets of rain they could make out four figures standing in the clearing. The familiar form of the taiyoukai stood in the midst of three unknown enemies, the familiar red haori of Inuyasha no where to be seen.

Kagome's heart beat furiously in her chest as she strained her eyes to look around at the landscape searching for any sign of her friend. Out of the corner of her eye she caught sight of red a little beyond the clearing. She prayed that it was just a piece of fabric shredded from his clothing, but the cold feeling that ran through her body told her different.

She held her breath as Kirara's descent made it easier to see that it wasn't as she had hoped; Inuyasha was lying unmoving under the cover of the trees. "Inuyasha!" Her voice screaming his name sounded distant to her ears but it caught the attention of everyone else.

Her two companions turned to look at her and followed her gaze. Their feline transport had also noticed their fallen comrade and was making a beeline to where he lay motionless. As they came closer they saw a little bit of movement granting them some relief in the knowledge that he was alive.

Kagome jumped off as soon as Kirara was near enough, anxious for her protector's well being. Miroku and Sango dismounted as well, but left Inuyasha's care up to the miko; right now their place was between the nekos and their two friends.

The arrival of reinforcements was far from unnoticed.

"How pathetic, humans coming to your rescue," Ansatsusha jeered as the taijiya and monk came up behind the two male demons, Sango launching her Hiraikotsu and Miroku swinging his staff.

Sesshomaru ignored the female's taunt as his eyes sought out the miko who kneeled at his brother's side. "Foolish humans' he thought to himself. Yet he couldn't help but briefly admire their loyalty and determination. Once more these humans had proven to him their worth. Regardless of their skill, it was the fact that these three would head off to fight an unknown enemy in defense of his brother spoke volumes of the nature of their hearts. Only the outcome of this afternoon's altercation would be the indicator of their wisdom in coming.

These thoughts however did not distract him from the foe in front of him nor deter him from his purpose. With lightening quick speed Sesshomaru once more wielded Tokijin and charged the cat demoness who eagerly charged him as well, her staff at the ready. Amber eyes glinted with cold fury as his thrust was blocked by her staff. Emerald eyes glittered with perverse emotions as she felt the controlled strength in his swing. Sensuous red lips curved in a smile of satisfaction as she faced this formidable youkai, waiting for his next move. He was going to be a handful and she looked forward to it.

The hanyou had been a surprisingly worthy opponent, fighting with raw strength, but his brother was a different fighter altogether. It was easy to see why he was the scion of the western lands. It was a pity he had to die. But then again he was brother to that foul beast she had slain just a heartbeat before Sesshomaru's untimely appearance. The bastard was hell bent on revenge; that would be his downfall, that and the humans who were his allies.

These canines and their perverse thoughts; the three of them heard all this nonsense about some human being able to summon the fragments of that accursed jewel. She briefly wondered which one of these weak humans was supposed to be the miko that would save the world. To her jaded eyes neither of the women looked like much, but if she were to guess she'd assume it was the warrior woman on the demon cat. The other human female simply looked pathetic kneeling by the fallen hanyou.

But then she felt the surge of power that surrounded the strangely dressed human. She should have guessed the miko would have concern for the hanyou. After all the creature had ties to the jewel. Supposedly she possessed a fraction of Midoriko's soul. And it seemed she inherited more than just a piece of the soul, but some of the ancient priestess's maternal feelings for her bastard son as well.

These thoughts didn't divert her attention from the deadly demon in front of her. As always she was ready when another swing from Tokijin came, this one releasing the deadly energy this sword possessed. Easily she spun her staff and sent it flying straight back at him. He easily struck the attack with the sword itself and it seemed to reabsorb the energy. Emerald eyes glittered with curiosity. That was definitely a risky move. A smile of understanding formed on her lips as she looked past him. His brother lay on the ground clinging to the last vestiges of life; had he dodged the girl and the hanyou would be dead.

"That was certainly a risk I didn't expect you to take. But then again, after all the games you played to keep him alive I should have known you'd still protect him. I'm disappointed in you. I had given you the benefit of the doubt, but now you must die."

"I do not require your approval, nor will I die. I've summoned your master and when he comes I shall give him your heads and confront him about this breach of treaty. His head too will roll for this." Sesshomaru replied through gritted teeth.

He was angry at himself for his lack of foresight. That blast could have killed both Kagome and Inuyasha. This entire scenario was rank with pitfalls. This fight had to move away from where the priestess tended to his brother's wounds.

The objects of his discomfort were totally oblivious to anything happening around them at the moment. Concerned midnight eyes gazed at Inuyasha's fallen form. A large wound was visible through the layers of clothing. The fire rat cloth that so often protected him had been penetrated. Bodily fluids seeped from his body. Desperately she tore at the sleeves of her blouse for something to staunch the flow of blood. Her heart thudded in her chest as she slowly peeled back the layers of cloth to reveal what she knew would turn her stomach. Silently the young woman prayed for the strength that she would need to tend to such an injury. The determined miko opened up the shirt revealing Inuyasha's flesh. A bolt of lightening lit up the sky and Kagome gasped at the damage done to her friend's body.

Inuyasha felt her touch and tried to move, but it was her distressed gasp that enabled him to find the strength to move. Slowly, painfully he lifted his head to look at her beloved face. He could see the tears mingled with the rain. She was crying for him again. One day she would realize he wasn't worth all the tears she had spent on him. He had to put her at ease; after all he should be dead already. He had died fifty years ago when Kikyo had pinned him to a tree. He hadn't been able to keep his promise then, and now he wasn't going to be able to keep it to Kikyo's reincarnation.

He grasped her hand as coldness began to seep into his body. "Kagome," he rasped, "don't cry."

"I'm not crying Inuyasha." Kagome stated quietly determined to keep her voice steady. "Just relax and let me take care of you. You've been through worse, you just need to rest and let your body heal. Sesshomaru and the others will take care of the cats."

The resignation in his voice had scared her. He sounded like he was giving up. That wasn't the Inuyasha she knew and loved. He had to fight. He had to live. There was so much left for him to do, a life for him to find when this was all over and she was going to make sure he got it.

Inuyasha knew better than that. His time was up. No matter how he hung on, no matter how hard he had struggled, it was finished. He hated to admit it, even to himself, but at this point there was nothing left for him to do. The borrowed time he had been granted was over and he had failed in his mission. But then again that had been his entire life hadn't it? And now it seemed he was destined to live that again. But more than anything he felt guilty because he wouldn't be there to kill Naraku and help Kagome piece the jewel back together again. However there was one thing he could do this time around that he had been denied the last, he could make peace with this girl, with this beautiful soul.

"Kagome, I'm sorry." He began.

"You don't have anything to be sorry for." Kagome stated her voice trembling with emotion. He was scaring her. There was a sad finality in his voice that confirmed her fears; he was giving up, he was letting go. Her heart knew she couldn't let him do that. It wasn't his time. Not now, not yet, not when they hadn't even faced Naraku for the last time. Inuyasha wasn't supposed to die like this. Oh how she wished she had greater control of her powers, how she wished she could make him whole again. She looked into those golden amber eyes of his filled with such pain and disappointment and her heart broke for him.

"Kagome… I just want you to know…I tried to keep my promise…tell Kikyo I'll be waiting for her." with that Inuyasha drew his last breath.

Kagome looked down at her friend in disbelief. Midnight eyes wide with horrified emotion as her mind began to register what her heart didn't want to acknowledge. Inuyasha was gone. "Inuyasha!" she wailed as tears flowed freely now as she moved so she could gather his head into her lap. "No, no, no, Inuyasha…" she continued as she rocked gently back and forth. Her fingers entwined themselves in his silver tresses stroking the wet silken locks.

She wanted to curse him for giving up. How had he just let go like that? Why hadn't he fought? Why hadn't he just let her try to save him? It wasn't right. After all they had been through for him to end up like this. He was supposed to live. He was supposed to be the hero.

Movement in the bushes caught her attention. Midnight eyes looked up into emotionless obsidian eyes. Kikyo stood just feet away from her. Kagome sent up a silent prayer. She asked whatever benevolent god that might be listening at this moment to intervene on Inuyasha's behalf. The undead priestess had never made it a secret that she wished to take Inuyasha to hell with her. Kagome prayed that she would just leave Inuyasha be.

"So, again he has not kept his promise." The resurrected priestess whispered half to herself as she regarded the fallen form of her lover. "I should have known better than to take him at his word."

Kagome merely stared in shock at the woman who held Inuyasha's heart, as she listened to the woman's dispassionate voice. The naïve girl wondered just how was it possible that the being before her could possible say such a thing. This woman had to feel something. The young miko couldn't believe that the priestess before her didn't feel anything at the sight of the hanyou she loved lying lifeless in the arms of another. Kagome tried with all her might to feel anything from the other woman. But yet it seemed she had proof that this creature was truly nothing but a shell devoid of any feeling and pity rose within her breast as she wondered how awful that must be.

"You pity me." Kikyo said addressing her reincarnation. The undead priestess saw the all too obvious emotion flicker to life in the younger woman's eyes. Her anger was roused once more upon this reminder that she too once felt such things. The insolent wench was not to pity her. A smile of victory graced her face as she knew her words and intentions would wound her usurper. Inuyasha was dead. He was hers and this girl could do nothing to stop it. Just a few moments and a few feet more and he would be in her arms. She had won. "Don't waste it on me. I have what I want after all; even if his death isn't by my own hand. He will journey with me to his final resting place. Step aside and Inuyasha and I can start our sojourn in hell together."

Pity was instantly cast aside upon hearing those cruel words and seeing the smirk on her predecessor's face. Kagome set Inuyasha's head gently on the ground. Silently she rose to her full height and moved to stand in between Inuyasha and this vengeful spirit. She wasn't going to allow Kikyo to take Inuyasha to hell, not now, not ever. Yes, she believed that the two of them deserved a chance at happiness but this wasn't how she envisioned it. Nor was she going to stand by and let it happen. She owed Inuyasha that much. She owed it to him to try and get through to this woman.

It was at that moment that it dawned on her that there was hope. Sesshomaru possessed a sword that could be his brother's salvation. It could very well be the thing that brought the two of them back together again. Kagome intended to see that he got the chance to use it to not only revive Inuyasha's spirit, but Inuyasha's faith in him as well.

"Stand aside." Kikyo demanded, annoyed to see the first signs of defiance flicker across the face of her reincarnation.

"No." Kagome stated firmly. Her recent realization made her all the more certain that she could not allow Kikyo to abscond with him to hell. There was a chance that some good may yet come from all this and the compassionate girl was going to make damn sure they had the opportunity to take it. There was no way she was going to let Inuyasha spend an eternity believing his brother hated him. She had to find a way to stop this.

The dead priestess glared at the defiant girl before her. She narrowed her dark eyes at the obstacle that blocked her way. The ignorant chit may think she was helping but she was only prolonging the inevitable. The incessant tugging at the soul within her almost unbearable, Kikyo knew her time here was short and she wasn't going to leave empty handed. She wasn't going to hell alone. The hanyou's soul beckoned to her even in death and she was going to answer it this time and no silly girl was going to prevent her. Inuyasha was dead, there was no reason for the girl to hold on so. The foolish child would have to learn the hardships of life. The miko stepped forward despite the opposition she faced; desperately using all her power to hold onto the last piece of her soul until she reached Inuyasha's side, only then when he was in her arms would she give in. Only then she might be able to find some peace in death.

Kagome's mind worked furiously to find a solution. In her heart she believed that she was no match for the priestess before her. Dead or alive Kikyo still possessed formidable powers. Kagome herself had been at the receiving end of these abilities too many times for her liking. Even with the training she had undergone and the new confidence in her own abilities, the younger girl still felt inadequately equipped to deal with this woman. Somehow she had to stop her. She was going to use everything she had, even if it meant sending Kikyo to hell alone.

Just as that thought entered her mind something happened, something Kagome could not explain. There was a surge of energy building within her, and it felt like a part of her had splintered apart and then a brilliant pink light began to engulf her body. As if in a trance the reincarnate closed the distance that remained between Kikyo and her. Instinctively the possessed girl raised her hands till they touched either side of Kikyo's face. Without warning Kagome felt a surge of energy leave her body. Kikyo staggered backward, obsidian eyes wide, surprise evident in her face. The ever present soul stealers that had hovered in the background sensed their mistress's need for help. Within seconds of the light fading from the two of them they lifted the stunned woman into the air and carried her off to safety.

Kagome watched on unsteady legs as the other miko was carried off into the distance until she was out of sight. Only then did she look down at her hands. She wiggled them to try and ease the uncomfortable tingling sensation in their tips. Somehow she had tapped into some dormant powers, that much she was able to conjecture. The question was; which ones, and would they by useful in the future?

"Kagome what did you do?" Myouga asked from his hiding place in her hair. The flea had managed to hitch a ride on Kagome when she dismounted her feline mount. He knew her goal and he suspected that she would be the farthest from the battle and he too needed to be near his charge. The last thing he expected was that surge of power he felt from her. Thankfully it hadn't been powers of purification or he'd have been a goner, whatever it was he had never in his innumerable years come across such powers.

"I don't know." She answered breathlessly. "But at least I was able to keep Kikyo from taking Inuyasha to hell."

Myouga spared a glance around him. It seemed the others had noticed as well. All eyes were on the young maiden who paid no heed to anything put the palms of her hands. The brilliant pink light, the surge of unknown power came from one source. They all knew something of great import had just happened that caused Kikyo to be carried away. However, the brief silence didn't last as the trio of felines tried to turn this momentary distraction to their favor.

The cause for their distraction didn't notice as she was still shocked and confused by what she had inadvertently done. The impetuous miko was just thankful that she had managed to drive Kikyo away. Now her attention would be where it should be.

Kagome turned around to look back at her fallen friend. At the corner of her eye she noticed a fur covered foot protruding from a nearby bush…Koga. It was then that the befuddled heroine realized that she hadn't even thought to look for him as she had been so preoccupied with Inuyasha. Her heart was in her throat as she quickly made her way to where the demon lay…lifeless. The tears began to flow once more as she looked upon the body of this demon.

Fear took hold of her heart as the salty tears spilled from her eyes. The sounds of her friends calling out their attacks, the feel of energy from the attacks pricked acutely at her senses. Adrenaline poured through her veins. She spared a glance to her friends who battled bravely just meters from where she stood out of harm's way as a sudden realization entered her stream of consciousness; Inuyasha and Koga had both fallen to these creatures. Her friends were strong but they were human with abilities far inferior to these fallen warriors. Midnight eyes looked upon the conflict before her, which eased her fears just slightly. Her friends were holding their own for the moment. She turned her head once more to look at Koga's motionless body.

He didn't deserve to die. The wolf had so much to live for and this was just another senseless death. And she didn't even know why. The shards were still embedded in his legs, it was obvious that these demons weren't after the shards or else they would have taken them already. No, this was about something else.

"Myouga, what's going on here?" Kagome demanded of the small parasite once again.

The flea gulped audibly. He was torn. Inuyasha didn't want Kagome to know abut the Vendetta, but his charge was no longer alive. The ancient advisor wanted to tell the young woman everything; he felt that she had a right to know. Honor bound him to keep his silence. "It's over, they got what they wanted." Myouga said sadly.

Kagome knew she wasn't going to get anything more out of the flea. The normally verbose and informative parasite was being unusually evasive and tightlipped about all this which frustrated her to no end. Her first thought was that the nefarious felines were after Koga's shards, but she didn't have to look at the wolf to know that the shards were still in his legs.

"This is a family matter." The taiyoukai's words entered her mind then. He wouldn't have said that if this fight had somehow concerned Koga. No this had to do with Inuyasha, but what?

Suddenly it came to her like the lightening that illuminated the sky. Fragments of conversations from days gone past were called forth from memories at lightening speed then. "…his life is endangered… leaving him defenseless against foes as I know would not think twice before taking his life…"

Somehow deep down she knew he was talking about these demons. His reaction in the cave confirmed that. He was angry, though he didn't seem too surprised.

"… with Sesshomaru's claim on Inuyasha's life they shouldn't have traveled so far to kill him. That would go against their code." The monk's statement inserted itself into the path her thoughts had taken. He was right, with the code these demons wouldn't have come, not onto these lands, not where Sesshomaru's word was law. Not if the Vendetta was still in place. Midnight eyes went wide as the suspicion dawned within her.

She looked over to the battle and saw Sesshomaru fighting with the demoness and suddenly it was all clear. She could hear the taiyoukai's words from when she first asked him to drop the Vendetta.

"Doing so will not soften my brother's anger towards me. It will not change anything between us."

No wonder he could say those things with absolute certainty. She had thought that he had been wrong, thought that he had been stubbornly holding onto the foolish notion that he could protect his brother through such means. But he had already let it go. Sesshomaru had lied to her.

Kagome's heart twisted at the thought. For a second she wished that the beads that hung around Inuyasha's neck were around his brother's. She had the distinct urge to sit him a time or two for letting her believe that the Vendetta still stood between the two brothers. Why had he lied to her? He had been so forthcoming with everything else.

"It is a matter between brothers." Those words echoed in her mind then. They struck a chord within her, he had said that when she had wanted to know what he and Inuyasha had been fighting about.

Midnight eyes rested on the silver haired corpse. Did Inuyasha know? Is that what the two of them had fought over that day? Somehow she sensed that the secretive parasite hiding within her hair knew the answer.

"Did he know?" Kagome asked.

"Know what?" the wizened advisor asked, although he suspected what she meant.

"Did Inuyasha know that Sesshomaru had called off the Brother's Vendetta?"

Myouga gulped. Kagome didn't even need to hear his affirmative response. In a matter of seconds Sesshomaru was absolved of keeping this from her. Her heart knew that he was trying to prove something to his brother. Whatever it was only the two of them knew.

"Oh Inuyasha." She whispered moved to pity. This brash yet seemingly unbreakable spirit had been shattered so many times in a single lifetime. Until this moment she didn't realize how deeply his pain ran. She regretted her words to him that day she came back. She should have consoled him, understood him better. Kagome felt that she had failed him in a sense. There had to be something she could have done to make him understand that he was loved. Whatever she had done wasn't enough.

Midnight eyes lingered on his face. Even in the dim light of the storm she could see the troubled lines. Even death hadn't brought him peace. Another tear rolled silently down her cheek. It wasn't fair that he should have lived the life he had so full of confusion, where the poor boy didn't even know who to trust and who cared for him. The times he felt loved were all too brief in this place where he was despised for what he was. Anger and sorrow mingled within her, fueling her desire to put an end to the battle. She had power enough to aide her friends… it may be too late now but she would punish these three that had so callously slain her two friends. It was time for her to fight. Sesshomaru had taught her many things these past few days and she intended to put those lessons to good use.

Kagome stepped closer to the fray, gathering the powers within her as she did so. The incessant pleadings of her tiny passenger for her to stay put went ignored. It was the sound of beating wings overhead that stopped her forward advancement. Overhead circled a large birdlike demon she had never seen before. Its call was loud and deep; louder even than the roaring boom of thunder heralding its descent. The three felines seemed to recognize the creature as the immediately fell into line and prostrated themselves on the ground before the arriving demon.

Sesshomaru too seemed to recognize as well as expect this demon's arrival as the silver haired demon lord watched the skies his face as always was an inscrutable mask of stoicism.

Indeed Sesshomaru had expected the arrival of this treacherous lord of the cats as he had his loyal retainer summon him. However it had only been moments ago that he had sent the summons. The canine lord knew that even this raven could not have arrived this quickly. Amber eyes narrowed at the implications and the audacity of Lord Usotsuki. It was a bold statement, one that Sesshomaru wasn't certain that he liked but for the moment there was something larger at stake than his family honor and pride. This would be dealt with in its own time.

Miroku, Sango and Kirara gathered around Kagome and their fallen friends. Their grief would have to wait at the moment as the situation before them demanded their utmost attention. The tearstained cheeks and the look on the young miko's face was all they needed for confirmation of their fears, Inuyasha was gone. The four of them faced the scene unfolding before them in the clearing as the large Raven landed and another demon dismounted, another Neko.

It was clear to all of them from the prostrate forms of the other three that this wasn't just any Neko demon. From the combatants, Sesshomaru was the only one that remained standing in the clearing. Nothing in his manner or facial expressions gave hint to the feelings within him that he suppressed. Even Kagome, with her abilities to sense many of his moods, was astounded at his prowess at setting his sentiments aside. At the moment she wished he would give into the anger she knew that he must be feeling. The demons before him all deserved no less than what they had given Inuyasha and Koga.

Sango felt the same as her friend. The monk however was able to see things a little differently. There was something odd about this situation. He had seen enough of Sesshomaru to know that typically given that small window of opportunity the three youkai would already be dead. No there was something going on here that they were all failing to grasp and he intended to find out what it was.

Sesshomaru watched the grey haired neko taiyoukai as the elder demon looked around at the group around him. Sharp canine eyes didn't miss the satisfied smile that formed on thin lips nor did the gleam of pleasure that glittered in the depths of sage colored eyes escape notice. It took all his willpower to not speak first. He would not show this bastard any courtesy, not after such a betrayal and such a blatant display of it as well.

Lord Usotsuki knew that the Inu youkai before him was more than well aware of his game. That gave him a small amount of satisfaction. His objective was complete and there was nothing the bastard could do about it. The hanyou was dead. That was all that mattered at the moment.

He spared a glance at his triumphant assassins. Once again their talents have proven invaluable. It was a pity that he would have to do what he must. But he too could play the games that these mongrels played, and in the eyes of the rest of the world Sesshomaru could not challenge him. The cur had played him a fool before; this time the tables were turned.

"Ah, I see you've found our three fugitives." He lied smoothly. "I was out on a post nearby searching for them. Apparently these three thought that they could ingratiate themselves into my good graces if they brought back your brother's head now that you've relinquished your claim on Inuyasha's life."

Two of the humans let out a collective gasp upon hearing this piece of information and the taijiya and monk looked to Kagome only to see that she was not as shocked by this information as they were. Questions formed within their minds but neither one of them spoke not wanting to miss a single word the latest edition had to say.

"We had a treaty." Sesshomaru ground out doing his best not to let the rage overtake him. The beast within him fought valiantly wanting to unleash all its wrath and fury on the coldhearted villain before him; it would only take one swipe to sever his head from his body.

"Yes, of course, that is why I was able to arrive so quickly. For almost ten days I and a few of my best warriors were searching for them. I wasn't going to allow their misguided intentions to jeopardize our truce. I gave my word I would not act against your brother until this business with the jewel was resolved." The cat delivered his practice lines with a congenial smile upon his face.

Sesshomaru was no fool, and he wasn't about to be played for one. "Do you expect me to believe that these three acted without your knowledge? I find that very difficult to believe."

Sage eyes glittered with mirth as he watched his nemesis's scion maintain that cool façade, but despite himself that accusation revealed just how enraged he was. The feline was only sorry that he hadn't been able to face the father in such a way. But then again, this young taiyoukai was nothing like his sire. The stoic being before him was as passionless as his father was passionate. The father fixed his failings through this favored son. If Inutaisho had a weakness it was his feelings for those he cared for. All too often the canine would allow his emotions to cloud his judgment, many times forgetting, sidestepping and even ignoring certain protocols. Sesshomaru apparently did not.

Lord Usotsuki didn't even bother to hide his amusement as he spoke. "I will overlook that slight to my character, you are of course grieving for your brother. I can truly understand and sympathize with you. It is hard to lose someone you love. But as proof of my word I offer you this…" At that moment the elder taiyoukai released a blast of energy at the three demons who had remained prostrate before him. Their shrieks of agony were brief and in seconds they lay as lifeless as their prey.

Kagome was horrified at the scene as were the others. "He killed them!" she cried in disbelief. "I can't believe he killed them. He sent them and he killed them." Before Miroku or Sango could stop her Kagome had pulled her energy to her and sent a wave of purifying power towards the newest arrival. She didn't care who he was, all that mattered was that he was behind all this and he seemed to enjoy this whole thing. In her opinion he was no better than Naraku.

Both demons sensed the building of power within the girl and turned their attention to the young miko whose aura now shone brightly around her. Energy swirled about the girl sending raven locks fluttering about her like ebony flames. She had turned from a meek unnoticed bystander into an avenging angel. Pride swelled within the canine youkai's breast as he laid eyes on her. He could see her determination, he felt her thirst for justice and he understood and admired it.

However; he wasn't going to let her interfere in such matters. He couldn't afford to at this moment. To the utter amazement and horror of the three humans the silver haired taiyoukai moved in front of the blast of energy. They couldn't understand why he had taken such a risk for the bastard that stood before him.

Emotionally and now physically overwhelmed Kagome sunk to her knees breathing heavily trying to regain her strength, wishing she could recall the pink energy that engulfed her friend. She wondered if Sesshomaru had felt the same way yesterday when she had saved Koga; this sense of confusion and betrayal.

Even with the rain amber eyes could clearly see the mixture of emotions that ran across her face. Other than the emotional turmoil such an ineffectual display of her powers caused him no real harm was done. His mind briefly flitted back to the strange burst of energy he felt before he noticed Kikyo being carried off into the distance. Something had happened. Whatever it was seemed to have drained Kagome's powers. At the time he had been grateful that the Shinidamachu had carried their mistress off before her soul returned to Kagome.

Fear seized his heart in its iron clad grip then. Fear for her. Time was running out, he knew it was. He wished to the gods that she had been able to have struck him dead; then he could have left this world knowing she'd have strength enough to survive the inevitable destiny that was hers.

"Ah, so this is the priestess that will save us all." Lord Usotsuki's voice pulled Sesshomaru from his thoughts. "Not much to look at; and she doesn't seem to be very powerful or very intelligent."

"That's enough." Sesshomaru growled.

Sango, who had knelt beside Kagome giving the young miko support, was about to voice her opinion but a firm hand on her shoulder stilled the words in her throat. She turned to meet Miroku's gaze. "Sesshomaru will deal with this. We can not interfere."

"Very wise monk, this is nothing you humans need to concern yourself with." The cat demon sneered before he turned his attention back to Sesshomaru. "Well, now all is as it should be. Your brother's death has been avenged, I have seen to that. You know in a way this has saved much trouble between us."

"How is that?"

"Well, you and I both know you would never have allowed anyone to harm your half breed brother. Whether or not you have love for him, I can't say, but I do know your father did and your father wished for his safety. You would do nothing against your father's wishes. However I wished for Inuyasha's death. I would have done everything in my power to see that it happened. You would have done everything in your power to prevent it. But now it is over."

"Is it?" Sesshomaru muttered.

A grin of triumph plastered itself on the feline's face. "As far as the code is concerned it is. If you act against me, you will do so in dishonor in the eyes of your allies. I too can use the codes to my advantage."

Sesshomaru squeezed his hands tightly as he fought to keep from killing this demon right here and now. He breathed in heavily fighting once more to keep the beast within at bay. He reminded himself once more that Inuyasha would soon be restored; Usotsuki's victory was only temporary. There would be another time for this. Somehow he would find a way to make him pay, and he would pay dearly.

"Yes, now you know how it feels. The code is on my side. Let that anger simmer within you, eat you alive from the inside, but know that you can not act against me, if you do you risk everything. Are you prepared for that?"

Amber met sage again. The feline demon was right and he knew it. In the eyes of the world there was nothing he could do. There was no way he could retaliate without risking open war.

Usotsuki easily read the taiyoukai's thoughts. He had lived with them for far too many years. It was time the canine learned what it felt like. With a departing laugh the diabolical lord mounted the waiting raven and the two flew out of sight.

Once he was gone, Sesshomaru erected a barrier over the area in which they stood. Far too much activity had been happening here. The day had turned out unlucky enough; he didn't need to risk Naraku or any of his minions stumbling upon them now. Not when Kagome was so weak. Not when he didn't have a clue what had happened to drain her powers.

Sesshomaru walked over to where Kagome leaned against Sango struggling to stay conscious. Despite everything that happened he couldn't help but feel some admiration for that indomitable spirit the girl possessed. She was weak, frail, and she knew it but yet she battled to stay awake, certain that she could help in some way.

Midnight eyes watched avidly as the silver haired demon walked stately towards where she knelt. He was soaked to the bone, his clothes plastered against him, there were some tears in the fabric but the demon himself looked no worse for wear. She sent up a silent prayer of thanks that she hadn't injured him in any way. There wasn't more her poor heart could take this afternoon. Inuyasha and Koga dead… three nekos… and she wasn't sure what she had exactly seen or why Sesshomaru hadn't just killed the cat…

"You're okay." She breathed in relief as she leaned against Sango for support. It was all she could do to say that much. The other questions would have to wait.

"Hai. I am." He said somberly as he looked into her distressed face. He felt his heart constrict this time with a different emotion; commiserate agony. This woman had shown him so many emotions, but not this one, not this heart-wrenching sadness. He determined then and there that Kagome should never look so desolate again, it wasn't right. There was a hopelessness in her eyes that made him want to pull her to him and hold her tight. He wanted to tell her everything would be just fine. But he couldn't. He would have to finally face the truth; he would have to find a moment to tell her.

Again he vowed to himself that Lord Usotsuki would pay for this treachery. If Kagome didn't survive that bastard would die as well. The repercussions would no longer matter; he would finish what he wanted so badly today. The slayer's voice pulled him from his murderous thoughts.

"Why did you get in the way?" Sango asked the question that her friend was too weak to. "He sent them to kill Inuyasha. How can you be so heartless?" The taijiya demanded.

Amber met brown. The rage simmering in their depths was mingled with a pain that he comprehended only too well. Part of him had wanted him to. That primal part of him demanded satisfaction. However, what he was about to do would change everything that had been done. For the moment he had to remind himself that they did need the neko. Lord Hikari had been adamant about it. That's why he had relinquished the Vendetta in the first place. Had he not this situation never would have taken place.

"Sango…" Miroku began gently as he sunk down next to the woman.

"It's all right Miroku." Sesshomaru stated wearily. Explanations didn't matter right now. There was something he still had to do. Without another word or glance at the three of them he walked away over to where his brother lay motionless on the ground.

Sesshomaru closed his eyes as he remembered arriving just as the wolf jumped in front of a blast of energy meant for his brother. Inuyasha had turned then and noticed him. The hanyou had been momentarily distracted by his arrival that he failed to dodge a blow from Ansatsusha's staff. The hanyou had immediately retaliated with tetsusiaga. Sesshomaru had jumped into the fray then. But it hadn't been enough. Somehow Inuyasha still had been mortally wounded. How it happened he still wasn't sure. All that mattered right now is that he hadn't been able to protect his brother. Again he had failed and his heart ached with that knowledge.

He drew a sword from his side. Miroku kept Sango in her place. The three of them watched as the sword pulsed with a brilliant energy and in seconds Inuyasha was sputtering and sitting upright.

"What happened? I was dead…"

Amber met amber then as realization dawned on the now resurrected hanyou; his brother had brought him back. His brother had fought with him. The hope that lived within him had the proof it needed to overwhelm the distrust that festered within his soul for so long.

"Brother," Inuyasha whispered in a tentative voice filled with emotion.

Sesshomaru couldn't believe his eyes and ears. How long had it been since that word was spoken in such a way? How long had it been since his brother looked at him with anything other than distrust? The taiyoukai's face softened then as the weight of what happened earlier eased with the knowledge that Usotsuki hadn't only failed to get what he wanted, but the cat had inadvertently provided him with the means to reach his brother. Sesshomaru smiled as amber eyes misted slightly.

Neither sibling noticed that tetsusiaga and tensaiga pulsed with energy until they heard the collective gasp from the human onlookers. The brothers raised their swords, crossing the blades as they did. When metal met metal a single flash of light blazed brightly from the two weapons causing them to release their hold on the hilts, and to shield their eyes and look away. The burst of light was but a moment and when they looked back a ghostly figure stood between the two, a sword held in each hand.

"Father" Sesshomaru rasped with emotion as he dropped to one knee and bowed his head in a show of respect. Inuyasha followed suit though he did not speak. The hanyou was too overwhelmed at the moment to say anything.

The glowing phantom smiled benevolently at the two, "my sons, it is as I had hoped it could be again. Sesshomaru," the elder of his sons who stood raised his head and looked into eyes he had never thought to see again, "you have restored your brother's faith. I could not be here otherwise. Inuyasha," the specter said as he turned to his youngest who mimicked Sesshomaru's actions, "I know it hasn't been easy for you all these years…"

"That's an understatement…" Inuyasha muttered earning a rueful smile from the apparition before him.

"If I could undo everything, change the path I set us all upon I would do it in an instant. I believed that I was doing the right thing at the time. Unfortunately foresight is never as clear as hindsight." He sighed then, "It is time you finally knew the truth and maybe just maybe you can come to grips with what happened here today."

"The truth?" Inuyasha asked confused by what his father said. Didn't he already know; wasn't that why his father was here; because he had accepted the fact that Sesshomaru had been trying to protect him from other demons?

"You only know in part. I owe it to you to tell you everything. Katsume is not your mother." He stated bluntly. There was no way to cushion it, no way to tiptoe around the issue, his time here was short and there was much he had to do. "There are those that know the truth, your mother is Midoriko." Upon seeing Inuyasha's startled look he added, "yes, as in the very priestess whose soul resides within the jewel. Our love was a secret affair, until…"

"Until I was born" Inuyasha added.

"Hai," Inutaisho replied apologetically, "There were so many reasons we kept it hidden, all of them seem foolish upon reflection, but at the time the secrecy enabled us to keep the peace. Forgive me if I do not indulge you and relay the details, my time here is limited, just know at the time we did what we thought was best. The lie was born, Katsume agreed to participate in the charade, and in many ways she was your mother."

The specter paused a moment there as the information sunk in, and before Inuyasha could ask a question his father began speaking once more, "I was away when the attack came, an army of demons was sent to kill you and your mother, Lord Usotsuki apparently saw through our hoax. His general, a particularly vile demon with great strength was in charge of that mission; he too is sealed within the jewel."

Amber eyes widened as the implications of what his father said began to take root. "The jewel was formed because of me."

"Yes. Midoriko fought them off so Katsume under Sesshomaru's protection could take you to safety. Your life was more important to her than her own. Katsume wasn't safe within the confines of the stronghold. She was human and there were many there that believed she was responsible for the political turmoil that my actions had led to. I allowed her to stay in a nearby human village where I could easily watch over you and extend my protection if need be. Again, that plan proved insufficient for I underestimated the humans fear and loathing of our kind…"

"And she was killed trying to protect me." Inuyasha added with emotion. There was an uncomfortable heaviness within his heart as this memory resurfaced. Two women had died trying to protect him. Amber eyes flicked to Kagome, she possessed a piece of Midoriko's soul, his mother's soul. His father's voice stopped his thoughts before they began to race with all the possible implications this had.

"Hai, unfortunate as it was, I was too late, Sesshomaru managed to bring you to safety. He brought you home. The years that followed were peaceful, you were young and after a time it seemed many had forgotten. Lord Usotsuki had not. He had wanted Midoriko for his own, and she rejected him in favor of me. His jealousy fueled his hate and it consumed him. He sought vengeance for an imagined wrong; only my death and yours would satisfy him. While I had allies he would not stand against me and you were safe until you came of age. He could, as a ruling youkai, challenge you; the only way to prevent this was if someone had a prior claim on your life."

Inuyasha looked at his brother then.

"Yes, the Brother's Vendetta was the only way. I wasn't going to let you die for my transgressions, perceived or real. Your brother had no choice but to abide by my wishes, not only was I his father, but I was his Lord as well. He tried to persuade me otherwise, as did a close and dear friend, but I would have none of it. I thought that it would be enough that you were alive. How wrong I was." He finished dejectedly as he shook his head slightly as he looked upon his youngest. "Your struggles and hardships will forever be burdens that I carry with me.

"Father…" Inuyasha muttered softly as he finally understood. Eyes now the color of liquid gold brimmed with emotion as he tried to compose himself, but years of suppressed feelings had already broken loose from their prison. Forgiveness came easily upon seeing and hearing the contrition in his father's voice.

"Inuyasha, I am wholly responsible. Your brother did as I asked; he was an honorable son. More honorable than I, he respected my wishes and went against everything he had been taught his entire life; he risked his reputation for the sake of doing my will."

"And I disappointed you…" Inuyasha replied mournfully, castigating himself for not seeing what others had so easily seen.

"No, it was I who disappointed you. That look on your face when it happened, that look of utter betrayal sliced through me as no weapon forged by demon or mortal ever could. But I didn't just lose you that day, that day I lost both my sons… one to his emotions, the other to his word." Inutaisho said as his somber gaze once more rested on his eldest.

"You have given up much to do my will. No father should have asked what I asked of you. But you've restored what I've stolen with one exception and thankfully it is in my power to restore it to you."

If Sesshomaru was expecting anything it was not what materialized in his father's outstretched arms. There in his father's ghostly hands lay the arm he lost in battle with Inuyasha. In the face of his brother's emotions and his father's presence the mask he had worn over the years was stripped away, his surprise and feelings were plain for all to see.

"No, father, it is my penance for not…" Sesshomaru stated his voice breaking just slightly with a mixture of guilt and gratitude, his heart stuck in his throat. This was entirely too much for one day.

Inutaisho interrupted his son then. "No, never feel guilt my son. It is not your burden to bear." His eyes flicked to the clearing to the three fallen assassin, " I have one last request to make of you, one that I know will be hard. The three warriors Usotsuki sent, revive them."

Sesshomaru looked up at his father then, disbelief and defiance clearly etched on his face. "Father you can't possibly expect me to, not after what they have done. If this is the price my arm will cost me, I will live without it."

'No my son you misunderstand. The arm is yours. I make this request of you because just like you they were unwitting pawns in this melodrama."

"They enjoyed it." Sesshomaru spat vehemently, "I fought them father, I know how much they relished it."

"They have been fed lies for so long. How many years has it been since Midoriko's death? Enough for her memory to almost fade entirely from this land, even amongst demons she is all but forgot. Hate is a persuasive mistress, and Usotsuki knows her well. These unfortunate warriors simply followed the wishes of their bloodthirsty Lord without question; just as you followed your father's wish to protect your brother. We abused the codes to save your brother's life. He manipulated them to end it and in doing so he sacrificed lives that were not his to take."

Amber eyes regarded his father's spirit for a moment. The firm lines in his father's revered and beloved face told him that his father would be intractable in this matter than he had been about the Vendetta. There was no arguing his father had already won. "Hai, I will do as you ask."

"This time I am certain that I am not leading you astray. These warriors may surprise you yet."

"If you are mistaken father, they will not live long." Sesshomaru stated fiercely.

"Understood," Inutaisho replied as he grinned at his eldest. The demon had become more confident after all this time.

All eyes were mesmerized to the scene as the arm in the ghost's hands began to glow slightly, the wind picked up and in a blaze of brilliant aqua the arm moved to where it had once been. A brilliant light enveloped Sesshomaru's body causing them all to shield their eyes once more. When they opened them Sesshomaru stood before them his arm outstretched before him, amazement, wonder and gratitude played across his face as he looked upon his newly restored arm.

"This is the very least I can do, for I can not restore the years you two have been separated, nor can I undo the pain that I caused the both of you."

Inuyasha looked stricken at this last statement. Never had he given Sesshomaru's motives a lingering thought. Even now hearing what his father had said, not once had he thought what Sesshomaru must have had to endure. His own feelings and memories clouded his mind, but looking at his brother's face, he could clearly see that mixture of mingled incredulousness, guilt and underlying sorrow. He wondered if he would have been able to do as Sesshomaru had done.

Just then another bolt of lightening lit up the sky, and the rustle of cloth from behind him drew his attention to his friends… to Kagome. And he knew he too had tried to do just as his brother had. He would never forget that horrible day after an intense battle with Sesshomaru that he sent Kagome into the well. The look in her midnight eyes as she fell backwards into the darkness and safety of the well; confusion, hurt, betrayal all were ingrained in his memory. Unlike him she had returned to his side full of forgiveness and understanding. He looked back to his brother and father knowing then he could do no less but to forgive both of them.

"Farewell my sons, I can finally rest now that my work here is finished." Inutaisho stated as his figure faded away.

"Father…" both brothers cried in unison. There was so much that they each wanted to say, they turned to each other then. The rain still poured, silver hair plastered to both their faces, clothing stained from the earlier battle, but none of that mattered to either. Words escaped them as they gazed at each other as if for the first time in years. Both hearts to the point of overflowing, neither knowing exactly what to say, finally Sesshomaru stepped forward and placed both hands on Inuyasha's shoulder and said simply, "my brother."

Inuyasha looked back at him and smiled and was granted a smile in return. One he hadn't seen in too many years, a smile full of benevolent brotherly affection. And it was enough for him. No other words needed to be spoken; this was all he needed as he bowed in respect to his elder sibling. What Sesshomaru did next was totally unexpected as he removed the soaked white pelt from his shoulder and placed it on Inuyasha's. "You are restored to your proper place."

Inuyasha was moved beyond words as the heavy mantle was placed on his shoulders. But he welcomed the weight of it. He stood and looked into his brother's eyes then and for the first time in what seemed like forever he knew the truth of what he felt. How many years had he lied to himself and said it didn't matter if was part of this family or not, but at this moment he couldn't deny the truth he had hidden from himself. This is what he had wanted all along. This is what he had searched for almost his entire life. He was home. In the middle of the rainstorm, in a clearing, drenched to the bone, he was finally home.

Sesshomaru saw the emotions shining in golden depths. It was finally as it should be once again. He nodded to his brother then and turned to finish what the sword at his side now bade him to do. The wolf was next.

Golden eyes rested on the form of the annoying demon that lay lifeless on the ground. Tensaiga pulsed with power calling out to him to send the small imps of the netherworld back to their domain. Without a moments hesitation he did so. This wolf had earned it, this lone demon fought alongside his brother, had lost his life doing so in a battle that should never have been.

The wolf opened his eyes to look on the face of the taiyoukai. Something had changed recently but he didn't know what. Cerulean eyes flitted around as he touched the places on his body where his wounds once were. He had been dead. Somehow he was alive. His gaze once more rested on the demon lord before him and he remembered what the others had said. Sesshomaru had the ability to bring back the dead.

Confusion swirled within his thoughts as he tried to find a reason why this stoic lord who had just yesterday meant to end his life would now restore it.

Seeing the confusion on Koga's face Sesshomaru spoke, "I granted your life because you fought alongside my brother, sacrificed yours for his. You have proven your worth and you have my gratitude."

If his words weren't enough to shock the ex-chieftain, his solicitous tone coupled with the seemingly insignificant gesture of bowing his head in respect were. The wolf stood there and bowed his head back. This was too much. His pride was shattered at that moment; the infuriating dog demon had more than proved his worth.

He watched in disbelief as the taiyoukai moved from him to where the three cats lay dead. Koga didn't know what had happened or who had killed them but he was curious as to what Sesshomaru's intentions were. His gaze briefly flicked to the others, he couldn't see their expressions but he was able to deduce by the way everyone all intently followed the canine taiyoukai's movements that they were as anxious as he.

No one spoke, no one made a sound as they watched Sesshomaru walk over to the remaining corpses of the trio of assassins. Koga hadn't heard what the others had. The others all wondered at his equanimity as he did so. His countenance was hard as stone, amber eyes were set with determination, devoid of any indication of the war that raged within him. These three were trained killers and he had felt their enjoyment of his brother's murder. But his father had made him see things differently; they were pawns in this odious business between Lord Usotsuki and Lord Inutaisho. It was in his power to grant them this second chance. Whatever they choose to do with it would determine whether they met as friend or foe if ever their paths should cross.

Wordlessly he swung the still pulsing sword and once more the soul eaters were denied their prize. The deadly threesome once more revived. Saffron, jade and emerald eyes reflected their confusion as they looked at their savior. All of them remembered their fate just moments ago. The pain was but a vague tingle that resonated through their bodies. They all knew that this was impossible but their senses told them otherwise; somehow this dog had brought them back from the dead.

Sesshomaru saw the disbelief on their faces and he stated coldly, "Yes, it is by my hand that you live again."

They looked from one another before they looked around and saw that the hanyou and wolf were indeed as alive as they were. Without hesitation they all three fell to their knees before this benevolent demon. All of them knew that though it was in his power to do so, there was nothing, not his sense of honor, his sense of family obligation or his sense of right that could have compelled him to do this. This act was beyond generous and they weren't certain what to make of it.

"Lord Sesshomaru you have your thanks, our lives are now in your hands and in your service." Koroshi mumbled. As the eldest male he had the responsibility of being the spokesperson for this small band of warriors.

"Do not thank me. I simply did as my father bade." Sesshomaru stated calmly. Their fates of the demons before him were secured. These three would live.

Upon hearing Sesshomaru's words, Satsujinsha's head shot up and the younger of the male neko siblings found new respect for this canine. Had he revived his father as well? "Your father?" he questioned boldly. Jade eyes communicated a silent reprimand to his younger brother.

"Yes, my father." Sesshomaru stated plainly a little bemused by the cat's interest in what he had to say.

"But he's dead. Did you…" Satsujinsha pressed on heedless of his brother's angry glare.

"No, it is beyond my ability to bring my father back. His spirit was able to return briefly when I revived my brother. Left to my own devices I would have left you as you were. Each of you met your death at the hands of your sovereign in accordance with our laws, as traitors should, but the fact remains that you were here on the orders of your lord. Whether or not he will admit it, we all know the truth. I realized in listening to him that you were hapless puppets in this feud between my father and your master. Each of you acted as you ought to have and for that your lives were restored to do with as you will."

"Are you granting us our freedom?" Ansatsusha spoke up bewildered at this turn of events.

"Hai, your lives are now your own to do as you see fit. To your lord you are dead. If you choose to return so be it. The consequences of that will be dealt with and when we meet again we meet as enemies. Or you can find your own way and I will consider you friends."

The three nekos looked from one to the other. Their agreement was evident without words. Return to their home was not an option. "We will make our own way." Koroshi stated solemnly as he once more resumed the position of the spokesperson for the three.

"Then when we next meet, we shall meet as allies. This will all be forgotten." Sesshomaru stated as he bowed to the three that still knelt before him.

Upon hearing that the three felines bowed their heads and stood in unison, the female stood forward, emerald eyes sought out the hanyou. "Inuyasha," she called out to him and waited until his eyes met hers. "You are a brave and fierce warrior, I enjoyed our battle, I look forward to fighting beside you if the time ever comes."

"As do we all," Koroshi added as he put an arm around his lover's waist. "Lord Usotsuki's will is no longer our own, and we would be proud to call you friend."

Inuyasha nodded to them. "My father trusted you enough to ask Sesshomaru to bring you back. I guess I have to as well."

The three demons exchanged glances, it was time to go. Koroshi and Ansatsusha turned and began to walk away. Satsujinsha stayed a moment longer he had something left to say. Saffron eyes rested on the taiyoukai who revived them. "You are indeed an honorable and benevolent demon. Those who call you friend are fortunate. Those who call you brother are doubly so." And with that said he too walked away following after the others.

"Sesshomaru," Kagome whispered as she felt the well of emotions within her friend.

It was all he could do not to turn around and look into her eyes. He heard only too well the feelings of awed admiration in those soft feminine tones. The taiyoukai knew he couldn't face the disappointment of gazing into her eyes and seeing the gratitude and admiration shining there. They were noble emotions but not the ones he wanted to see when she uttered his name with so much feeling. When next she spoke his name with that much emotion he hoped that it would be with the feelings he coveted that belonged to another from a different time. Once again he vowed he would find this man even if it meant waiting 500 years he would do it.

He looked down at the recently reattached arm and smiled to himself. If ever she was to look at him that way he could take her into his arms, both of them, and he would never let her go. Not after everything they had been through.

The nagging fear returned as he remembered what had happened with Kikyo. There were questions that must be answered, and in his heart he knew the truth and he prayed to whatever gods that had granted him the time he had spent with her that they would grant him more. The taiyoukai was more than aware that now wasn't the time to ask such questions. Right now it was important that they return to the shelter of the cave. The storm still raged around them and the day was coming to an end. He was certain that Lord Usotsuki's arrival wasn't one that would go unnoticed, and by now Naraku was sure to be wondering where his brother was. After the events of today it was more than apparent he would have to be more diligent on that score.

Sesshomaru sighed as he turned back to the group; his face was again the mask of stoicism he usually wore as his heart felt heavy with its burden once more. "It is time to return to the cave."


Author's Notes: Well this took a little while to get done. In my defense this is the longest chapter I have put together… I don't expect any of the remaining chapters to be this long… Anyhow, once again a big thank you to my wonderful beta the bigW, and for all those reading I hope you enjoyed…