Intervention Thy name is Bakusen'O!

by lunamist

Determined to undue the damage Sesshomaru has wrought, Bakusen'O takes a dying Inuyasha into his protection until the Lord of the West comes to understand his brother's worth. Centuries later, Inuyasha has been released into his brother's care. Soon Sesshomaru comes to understand, a sibling relationship is not what his Youkai has in mind. Ah, but how to woo a battered Hanyou?

3. Chapter 3

Yeah, Chapter 3! Thanks again for all the reviews, you guys are keeping me writing this story. Just a couple of answers to some reviews: The main part of the story is set about 60-70 years after the time when Kagome jumped through the well. That is explained later, but I didn't think it was giving anything away to let you all know that right now. Also, yes, Kouga will be in this, but he doesn't show up for another 2 or 3 chapters. I actually have a lot of fun writing him in this (he's a real smart ass) and I hope you'll like his character when he makes his grand entrance.

Disclaimers:

1. As always, I own nothing related to Inuyasha, nor do I make any money off of this.

2. Sesshomaru refers to himself in both the third and first person throughout the rest of the story. Hope that doesn't confuse/get on anyones nerves.

3. Please forgive spelling/grammer mistakes. I try to get them, but the little bastards are sneaky.

Now, on with chapter 3 . . .

Sang-di was well aware how private Lord Sesshomaru was, and he respected that. But, just this once, he wished he could see beyond the dark glass separating the driver's cabin from his powerful passengers, and yes, he'd meant exactly that, passengers. For today was unlike any other day Sang-di could remember. Never before had Lord Sesshomaru brought anyone else to their known destination, not even Jaken or the Wolf King, Kouga.

Glancing back in the review mirror revealed no more than the last fifty or so times Sang-di had made the same movement, but for some reason, he just couldn't help his eyes from wondering today. When they'd left, he'd been surprised at the beautiful woman accompanying his master. Of course he knew the human coating was just that, in truth, she was a Youkai - a very strong Youkai. Exactly what kind, he wasn't sure. As was typical, Lord Sesshomaru had only nodded in the drivers direction before stating their destination would be what Sang-di had come to term, "The Forbidden Forest." That was when things had become interesting.

Secluded as he was, the driver had no idea what the two Youkai were talking about, although, chances were fairly good that even if he could hear what was going on back there, it wouldn't enlighten him much. Knowing Lord Sesshomaru, conversation was probably sparse, at best. Shrugging his shoulders, Sang-di figured the Youkai who'd come along for the ride was well aware of his masters disposition, for when he'd first glimpsed her, the woman had appeared completely at ease.

Recognizing his turn-off, Sang-di took a left, leading the vehicle further away from the depths of the city and towards the secluded woods. Soon enough, signs of civilization became fewer and further in-between and a small copse of trees came into view. Slowing the car, he pulled to the side and eased the car onto a small embankment before cutting the engine. Barely had he removed his own seatbelt when Sang-di heard the sound of a car door opening. A quick glance in the side mirror told him his occupants were already exiting the vehicle, sending the driver into a momentary panic. Hurrying out of the car, Sang-di rushed to his Lords side. "Forgive me, Lord Sesshomaru, I should have been quicker - "

Leaving the door open, Sesshomaru's back was already gliding away from his driver's gaze, a petite, lithe form following closely behind. Gripping his hands into tight fists, Sang-di felt a modicum of distress until he heard the toneless voice of his Lord, "Do not stray from the car and be ready to leave when you see this Sesshomaru exit the forest."

Letting out a deep sigh of relief, Sang-di slouched against the car. By all rights, Lord Sesshomaru should have at least reprimanded him for not moving quickly enough to open the car door for both he and his guest, but it seemed that today the great DaiYoukai had more important things on his mind than propriety.

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Although impossible to tell from the outside, inside, Sesshomaru's heart was racing and it was with great effort that he maintained a steady, leisurely walk rather than condensing himself into an orb of energy and rushing to Bakusen'O. Behind him, he could barely hear the light footsteps of Lady Altiera, the phoenix Youkai shadowing him. Gritting his teeth, Sesshomaru thought back to the wait he'd had to endure these past few days for Altiera's arrival. Of course, when he'd heard Bakusen'Os words regarding the Hanyou needing a powerful healer, Altiera's name was the first (and to be truthful) only he thought of. Oh, there were other skilled healer's to be had, but phoenix Youkai were known to be the best in that particular field, and of course, Lord Sesshomaru expected the best. The problem was, there were precious few phoenix Youkai left in the world. Still, if it hadn't been for his own intervention some three hundred years ago, not even the handful drawing breath would have been able to be counted.

Without conscious thought, Sesshomaru's feet traveled the well known path to Bakusen'Os roots, finally stopping just short of the tree. Glancing up, the DaiYoukai wasn't surprised to see the old demon tree had pulled Inuyasha's body deep within its canopy, the barrier up once more.

"Eldest son of the great Inu no Taisho, have you returned for the one you hold most dear?"

Without taking his eyes from his brother's position, Sesshomaru nodded. "Indeed, this Sesshomaru has no other purpose."

Although Sesshomaru didn't see it, Bakusen'Os wooden lips curved up into a smile. "I would expect nothing less. Tell me, is this lovely creature the healer you have brought."

Finally pulling his eyes away, Sesshomaru took a half step back, bringing his body even with the Youkai to his left. Turning his head slightly, Sesshomaru wasn't surprised to see Altiera had dropped her human facade and now stood in all her glory. And a glory was what it was to look upon any phoenix Youkai: deep, rich crimson skin etched with the imprints of feathers bled into coal black, claw tipped fingers. Within a beautifully formed face, large almond eyes dancing in firelight looked out from deeply lashed lids while golden feathers adorned with blue flaming tips sprouted from the crown of Altiera's head. Indeed, she was beautiful, but not half as beautiful as the broken Hanyou hanging limply within Bakusen'Os canopy.

Nodding towards the demoness, Sesshomaru allowed Altiera to respond, "My abilities are and always will be at the Lord of the West's disposal." With a small bow in Sesshomaru's direction, Altiera allowed her fiery eyes room to roam, desperately looking for the reason she'd been brought here. But both her vision and senses failed her. Furrowing a delicate brow, the demoness questioned, "Pardon me, my Lord, but I see no one here in need of my services."

Just as Sesshomaru had suspected so long ago, none save him was able to see the body of his brother held deep within Bakusen'Os charge. Staring into the face upon the tree, Sesshomaru made sure to keep both his voice and words respectful, for he was all too aware that he had yet to gain his brother's release. With a slight bow in the tree's direction, the DaiYoukai simply stated, "By your leave."

Sesshomaru watched as the face etched upon the tree went from carefree and smiling to one of deep thought as once again, silence reigned throughout the forest. "Lord Sesshomaru, this old tree has sheltered the Hanyou for these past many years. I have protected his body from both violence and time, but as I release him now, so he may never return to my care. Does the Lord of the West understand?"

Indifferent mask never fading, Sesshomaru answered, "This Sesshomaru understands what my father's friend and alai has done for his foolish eldest son and gratefully accepts the responsibility now entrusted to him."

Giving a great and heavy sigh, Bakusen'Os limbs bowed in the breeze. "Very well. The decision has been made."

Hearing the rustling of leaves and limbs, both Sesshomaru and Altiera's eyes looked upwards and Sesshomaru heard a faint gasp of astonishment as Bakusen'O lowered the barrier surrounding the Hanyou's body, releasing both his scent and Youkai into world once again.

"God's in Heaven," Altiera muttered, astonishment clear in her voice.

"Indeed," was the only reply Sesshomaru could offer.

Altiera quietly stood and watched as Bakusen'O moved the limbs piercing the half-breed's body ever closer to the ground, until finally the bloody body of the Hanyou hung limp and seemingly lifeless in front of the demoness.

Having no knowledge as to the Hanyou's identity, nor why he was anything of note to Lord Sesshomaru, Altiera none the less was determined to do her job and do it well. And so, with the heavy scent of blood cloying the air, Altiera took a hesitant step forward, only to stop mid-motion, looking to her Lord for permission. "Forgive me, my Lord, but it would help me to see the extent of his wounds."

A slight nod of Sesshomaru's head was indication enough and soon Altiera began her examination. Circling the hanging figure, the phoenix Youkai ran a hand, alight with a cool, blue flame, over the Hanyou's body. Although several hundred years old, she could not keep the look of disgust from her face. She knew not how the half-demon had sustained his current wounds, what she did know was that whomever had done it had been cruel and malicious in their making, for there was not an inch of tissue which had not some type of slice, break, or deep bruise. Probing deeper, the phoenix Youkai could sense the barest hint of a once potent poison littering the boy's body. In short, the Hanyou's final moments had been ones of deep agony.

For his part, Sesshomaru remained stoic and passive as he watched the demoness's clinical assessment of his younger brother's wounds. With a patience born of necessity, Sesshomaru waited for Altiera to come full circle, stopping once again in front of Inuyasha's bowed face. Tensing, the DaiYoukai bit back a growl as Altiera's hand came up to cup the Hanyou's face, trailing deadly fingers over a swollen cheek. Finally able to take no more, Sesshomaru tried and failed keeping the annoyance from his voice as he asked, "Your assessment?"

Easily picking up on her Lords irritation, Altiera sighed deeply. Removing her hand, she gently eased the Hanyou's head back down, allowing his blood-encrusted hair to shield his face once more. Taking a moment to collect her thoughts, the phoenix Youkai raised her own head, burning eyes narrowed as she answered, "The damage is extensive."

"This Sesshomaru is aware."

Giving a quick nod, Altiera looked towards the demon tree. "Am I correct in assuming that it is only your Youkai currently sustaining the Hanyou's life?"

"You would be most correct," Bakusen'O answered.

"And then, would it also be correct to assume that once your limbs have been removed from the boy, that he will once again begin fading."

"Again, most correct."

Turning to face her Lord once again, Altiera's face was drawn in thought. "My Lord, once the boy is released, I will have to move swiftly. My attention must not be diverted. Do you understand what I mean by this?"

Sesshomaru felt his body tense, for he did indeed understand what the demoness meant. Although Altiera did not fully grasp the importance of the Hanyou to him, she did understand that he was anxious to have the matter done and over with. On top of that, the great Lord Sesshomaru was unused to standing idly by on such an important matter. Stopping his fingers before they could tighten into fists, he finally answered, "There shall be no interference on this Sesshomaru's part."

Sesshomaru watched as Altiera's frame visibly relaxed before tensing again as she looked upon the diminished frame of the Hanyou. "It is my wish that I could heal all his injuries." Shaking her head, Altiera's eyes once again found those of Sesshomaru. "But I would be telling you a falsity if I spoke thus." Voice drifting away, she added, "His wounds are just so . . . "

"Extensive."

Altiera nodded. "Not only that, but they are all encompassing. I have never seen such a state of injury. I can not believe the boy was able to live so long with such an accumulation of damage."

Sesshomaru couldn't help the smirk tugging at his lips. "The Hanyou's will is strong. It is perhaps, one of his best qualities."

Seeing the upturned lips of her Lord, Altiera couldn't help but smile herself. She was more than just a little pleased to see the true affection Lord Sesshomaru had for this small Hanyou. But all too soon the smirk faded from the DaiYoukai's lips as he asked, "Are the wounds too extensive?"

At this, Altiera shook her head. "No, not for one such as myself. I do not speak to flatter, but a healer of lesser abilities would have been insufficient for the task at hand."

"As expected."

"However, I will only be able to heal those wounds most dire to his continued existence."

"Speak plain, Lady Alteira."

Altiera's lips thinned at the rebuke. "What I mean to say, my Lord, is that I will be able to heal his wounds sufficiently enough to ensure his survival, but the boy will still be in a considerable amount of pain. During my examination, I found not only his wounds to be numerous, but his Youkai is severely drained. This leads me to believe that it will take some time for his wounds to fully heal and in that time he will be most vulnerable."

Moving his eyes back toward his little brother, Sesshomaru's voice was cold with reply. "The Hanyou's future care is of no concern to you."

Altiera's back stiffened and although she and the other phoenix Youkai owed their lives to this DaiYoukai, she was, first and foremost, a healer and would not allow one of her patients to come to further harm. Stealing herself against an inevitable backlash, the demoness pressed forwards. "Begging your pardon, my Lord, but I will not heal one such as this only to be damaged further. To this Youkai's eyes, the Hanyou has suffered enough."

Without thought, Sesshomaru's lips curled back into a vicious snarl, his eyes tingeing red with anger. "You would question this Sesshomaru?"

Altiera felt her courage falter. "N-not question, my Lord . . . it is only my concern for the boy - "

"The Hanyou is mine," Sesshomaru growled.

Blinking rapidly, Altiera felt the possessive power of Sesshomaru's Youkai surround her, suffocating the phoenix Youkai in its might. "I do not q-question the ownership of the boy, o-only his well being."

Staring into the frightened, yet unwavering eyes of the demoness in front of him, Sesshomaru's anger began dissipating almost as quickly as it had erupted. At first, his Youkai had seen Altiera's concerns as a claim on Inuyasha himself, but upon further inspection, it was clear that this was not the demoness's intent. Indeed, she seemed merely worried about the safety of the Hanyou. And so, with great effort, Sesshomaru pushed his Youkai down, regaining the brilliant gold of his eyes. "If it eases your concerns, Lady Altiera, know that this Sesshomaru will personally be looking after the safety of the Hanyou. In fact, the protection of the half-breed is my only concern."

With a deep breath, Altiera willed her racing heart to subside. "Thank you, my Lord."

Knowing that he'd already waited centuries for this very moment, Sesshomaru found himself anxious to hold his little brother once again. "Are you ready to proceed then?"

"I am willing whenever Bakusen'O agree's to release his charge."

Turning slightly towards the demon tree, Sesshomaru stated, "It is time."

Smiling sadly, for Bakusen'O knew he'd miss caring for the young Hanyou as well as the frequent visits of Sesshomaru, the old tree's limbs began both lowering and receding from Inuyasha's skin. In their wake, a fresh trail of the Hanyou's precious blood spilled onto the forest floor as his limp body was gently laid upon the damp ground.

Within a fraction of a second, Altiera was kneeling next to Inuyasha's cold body, her hands alight with a cool, blue flame as she channeled healing Youkai energy into the most significant of his wounds - those of his chest and torso. What seemed to Sesshomaru to take a small lifetime, in reality took but a few precious minutes and soon the deepest of the wounds (the place where his fist had hammered through the Hanyou's abdomen) began closing. With that task done, Altiera's Youkai infused hands glided over the wounds the tree limbs had left behind as well as healing the fractured ribs and more significant lacerations. The severity of Inuyasha's wounds had soon drained Altiera. Having only a small amount of healing Youkai left, she quickly ran her hands over the ripped and torn puppydog ears hanging limply through the Hanyou's bloody hair, a small smile gracing her face as she saw the edges mend together seamlessly.

Worn through and through, Altiera looked down upon the young face before her and smiled. To be sure, the following days would be anything but easy on the Hanyou, but in the end, he would live. Lowering her hand, she was pleased to note the slow rise and fall of her patient's chest along with the strong beat of his heart. Satisfied and able to do no more, the demoness raised her head, her once bright eyes dull with the exertion of her task. "I have done what I can, my Lord. With further care, the Hanyou should make a full recovery."

Giving a slow nod, all Sesshomaru could do was stare down at his little brother - the one he should have protected above all others but instead tormented and brutalized. Folding his hands behind his back, the DaiYoukai's eyes never left the prone form of his brother as he stated, "You have done well. This Sesshomaru hold's your clan's debt fulfilled."

Altiera gasped, "B-but, my Lord . . . I . . . this is small compensation for what you have done for my people . . . your actions . . . they saved us from extinction. What I have done here can not possibly compare - "

Sesshomaru's voice was stern, "What you have done today more than makes up for such an act." Finally pulling his eyes away from Inuyasha's body, Sesshomaru looked the demoness in the eye, paying little heed to the exhaustion residing there. "Leave us now."

Quickly hiding her shock at both her clans debt release as well as the abrupt dismissal, Altiera shakily got to her feet, somehow managing to give a quick bow while offering a soft, "As you wish, my Lord," before turning on her heel and carefully walking out of the forest, following the well traveled path back towards the direction of the road.

Breathing in and out slowly, Sesshomaru willed his body to remain where it was until he was sure the phoenix Youkai was out of sight. Then, and only then, did he take those extra few steps towards his brother, fairly falling on his knees with need as he reached out a slender, clawed hand; his quaking fingertips lying gently against Inuyasha's chest. Only when he felt the steady beat of the Hanyou's heart did his body relax, his fingers stilling.

"How fares the youngest son of Inu no Taisho?" Bakusen'O questioned.

"His heart is yet strong and beats once again."

"Such news pleases this old tree."

Looking up, Sesshomaru watched a wide grin form on Bakusen'Os trunk before it spoke again, "I see Lady Altiera was able to heal his wounds."

"She mended the worst of them but he will still require much time to recuperate." Shifting his eyes back towards Inuyasha's still unconscious form, Sesshomaru's eyes narrowed in thought. "Were you able to remove all the poison form his system?"

"Most of it, although it took many years to do so."

Sesshomaru gave the old tree a critical look. "You appear no worse for it."

Bakusen'Os whole body shook with his laughter, raining leaves down upon the two Inu's. "No, in truth, I must thank you, Lord Sesshomaru."

"Thank me?"

"The only way to remove the poison from Inuyasha's system was for me to absorb it into myself. Taking but a little at a time, my body was able to adapt to the increasing levels. And now, it seems as if my sap is deadly to all whom try and take it."

A small smirk quirked the edges of Sesshomaru's mouth. "Is this Sesshomaru to assume there are less insects nibbling at your body?"

"Not just less, but none." Sighing dramatically, Bakusen'Os pleasure was self - evident. "It feels so good not to be someone's dinner anymore."

Sesshomaru felt an odd warmth creep into his soul, but it was stolen as his eyes returned to the beaten body of his brother. And, no sooner had his eyes found Inuyasha's form, but a small whimper escaped the Hanyou's dry and cracked lips. Hearing the infantile noise, Sesshomaru's heart clenched. It was such an instinctive cry of distress and he found his inner Youkai howling in response. "I must get Inuyasha back and into bed. Soon he will stir from unconsciousness and will be in pain."

"The Hanyou belongs with you, Lord Sesshomaru. He always has."

Sesshomaru nodded. "And with this Sesshomaru he will stay."

"Be cautious. His memories are not as yours. You may remember these past few centuries, but for Inuyasha . . . "

"He will know only my treachery. My hatred."

"Sadly, this is true. I fear it will be difficult to earn his trust."

"Difficult, yes. Impossible, no. This Sesshomaru will not fail," the confidence lacing Sesshomaru's voice was no lie.

"No matter how long it may take?"

Staring up into the towering canopy above him, Sesshomaru's answer sounded far away. "Time is of abundant supply." Lowering his eyes back down, the DaiYoukai eased his hands and arms under Inuyasha's still form, earning another whimper as he lifted the body from the ground, cradling Inuyasha's head against his chest.

"May this old tree offer one last piece of advice?" In answer, Sesshomaru merely inclined his head for Bakusen'O to continue. "Be cautious of the young Hanyou, especially on the night of the new moon."

Sesshomaru raised an eyebrow. "This Sesshomaru is well aware of the Hanyou's night of weakness."

The face covering the bark of the tree took on a look of surprise. "You know of the boy's human nights? Knowing your previous hatred, I am surprised Inuyasha lived long enough to come into my care."

"Injuring the Hanyou when thus weakened would have provided little satisfaction to this Sesshomaru."

"Indeed, I suppose not. Tell me, is he aware you know this?"

Pausing for a moment, Sesshomaru finally shook his head. "I do not know. I recall no instance where he would have been made aware."

"Well then, my previous warning stands as most likely, Inuyasha will be very fearful on this night. Although the new moon is not for several days, I doubt you will have been able to gain his full trust in that time."

"Your words are well headed, Bakusen'O. This Sesshomaru will do his utmost to put the Hanyou at ease."

Holding his precious cargo close to his chest, Sesshomaru made to leave the forest, only to be stopped by Bakusen'O once more. "Would you leave your father's fang, Lord Sesshomaru?"

Everything in Sesshomaru's body froze. He'd been so concentrated on regaining his little brother that he'd not once given a thought to Tessaiga's existence. With his back still turned to the tree, Sesshomaru watched as a delicate tree limb lowered the rusty sword, depositing it in Inuyasha's cradled lap. Ashamed and at a loss for words, Sesshomaru remained silent.

"There is no need for words. Your Lord father would be pleased that you hold your brother's life of more value than his sword. Yes, the great Inu no Taisho would be most pleased."

Lowering his head, Sesshomaru heard the long distant voice of his father and for the first time in countless years, he felt as if Inu no Taisho would indeed be pleased with his eldest son's actions. Perhaps not proud yet, but he felt certain that emotion was not far off. Or, at least now it was within reach.

Pushing the raw emotion deep within his chest, Sesshomaru's voice was firm yet quiet. "Know that this Sesshomaru is forever in the great Bakusen'Os debt. Thank you."

Behind him, Sesshomaru heard the tree sigh but missed the sight of the fading face on Bakusen'Os bark. "As the season's change and pass, I shall remain. Call on me whenever you are in need. For this Bakusen'O will always be here to aid Inu no Taisho's son's."

And with that, only the whispering of a gentle breeze through Bakusen'Os leaves could be heard. Staring down at Inuyasha's quiet form, Sesshomaru's heart eased at the gentle rise and fall of his little brother's chest. Lady Altiera had healed the Hanyou's most damaging wounds, now it was up to Sesshomaru to heal his brother's heart.

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Sang-di was staring aimlessly into the shadowed woods when he first glimpsed the hunched over form of the demoness. With an unsure gait, the beautiful human broke through the dimness.

"My Lady?" Sang-di questioned while walking forward, intent on helping the demoness.

Holding a hand up, Altiera stopped the driver mid motion. "Although appreciated, your assistance is not needed."

Stepping back, Sang-di stood, completely un-offended. He'd been working with powerful Youkai long enough to understand that no matter what their origins, every last one held something in common - pride. And, although he may not know exactly who this demoness was, he was well aware that she was both ancient and powerful. Bowing slightly at the waist, Sang-di gave a simple, "As you wish," before walking back to the car and opening the door.

Lady Altiera lifted a single eyebrow at the driver's courtesy, though truth be told she should have expected nothing less from a man employed to the Lord of the West. Stopping just short of the car, Lady Altiera gave an exhausted smile. "Again, my thanks, but I believe another route back would be preferable."

Troubled, Sang-di questioned, "Pardon?"

Shaking her head at the driver's confusion, Lady Altiera closed the gap between them, laying a slender hand along Sang-di's cheek. A pink dusting of the driver's skin was her reward. "You have a kind and gentle soul. Your actions do your Lord proud." Removing her hand, the demoness stepped back and began walking into the adjacent field.

"Please, my Lady . . . I . . . " Sang-di's plea filled words sounded soft in the country air. And, although Altiera continued on her chosen path, she offered a few parting words. "My path is my own. Please concern yourself no more with the matter." Truly, she thought, this Youkai was unusually kind. With this thought, she stopped, her head turning slightly. "A word of advice, when next you see your Lord, do not approach the one he holds. If you value your life, pay the Hanyou no mind." And with that, the demoness masquerading as a simply human woman faded out of Sang-di's sight, leaving his brow furrowed as he thought, Hanyou?

Unfortunately, Sang-di found himself standing in the same position, eyes fixed on the now empty field before him, still contemplating the demoness's final words when he heard Lord Sesshomaru's voice behind him -

"The door."

Whipping around at the simple command, Sang-di couldn't help but stare at the bloody figure gently cradled within his Lords arms. But even through the swelling and discolored skin, it was obvious to him that this was no ordinary Hanyou. Indeed, he well suspected this was an InuHanyou. Instantly, the driver's mind erupted into a flurry of activity. Puzzle pieces began shifting in his brain's attempt at solving the mystery of why he'd been driving Lord Sesshomaru to this place for so long only to one day have the DaiYoukai exit the woods carrying what looked like a half dead relative. So deep in thought was Sang-di that he missed the scorching look on Sesshomaru's face. He could not, however, miss the suddenly oppressive Youkai smothering their small area.

Pulling in a desperate breath, Sang-di's wide eyes finally took in what he should have paid attention to long ago - Lord Sesshomaru's wrath. With a face carved of pure, alabaster stone, Sesshomaru's golden eyes fairly glinted with fury. "This Sesshomaru does not repeat himself."

Springing into motion, Sang-di flew to the door handle, opening the portal wide as he himself took two healthy steps in retreat. With a grace the driver would never understand, Lord Sesshomaru eased his way into the car. All the while holding the Hanyou's body perfectly still, not a ripple in his red Firerat nor a blood crusted hair out of place.

Once inside, Sesshomaru gave a final order of, "Home," before the door was closed and Sang-di was scurrying into the driver's seat. Within moments the car lurched forwards and onto the dirt road. Though the tires dipped and swayed the car too and fro, the great Lord of the Western Lands kept his precious cargo still; moving his body in time with the motion. In his arms, the Hanyou simply swayed in gentle rocking waves as Tessaiga lay unmoved upon his chest.

Thank you all so much for reading. I know we're moving kind of slow, but soon our little Hanyou is gonna wake up and Sesshomaru will have a world of hurt to try and mend.

Reviews are so very much appreciated and make my day all the brighter.

Thanks again, and until next time . . . lunamist