...

The group in the clearing stood in stunned silence at what had just transpired.

"What the hell?" Inuyasha whispered, stating the thought on everyone's mind.

Sango knelt down and put her hand on Shippo's stiff shoulder, "Shippo? Are you alright?"

Shippo looked up at her, his form quaking, "I'm not-I'm not dead?" He whispered.

Miroku let out a quiet chuckle, "No, no you are not. I think, Shippo, that you are one of the few beings who have crossed Sesshomaru that can claim that."

"What the hell?" Inuyasha interjected.

Miroku stroked his chin and continued as if Inuyasha hadn't spoken, "I wonder though, why that is. Lord Sesshomaru is not known for leniancy nor to ignore the chance to strike out at Inuyasha. And what exactly was he wanting with Kagome?"

At Miroku's words, Inuyasha snapped out of his stupor.

"Keh, who cares what was up that icicle's ass this time. It's not as if the bastard can get to her anyway, and if he tries anything when she gets back," Inuyasha smirked and stroked Tetsusaiga, "He will meet my Wind-Scar. Now come on! We've already wasted enough time, we need to get back to looking for the shards!"

"Like that is going to happen with Kagome-nee-chan at home," Shippo mumbled, earning a glare from Inuyasha.

"Yes, Inuyasha, perhaps we should head back to Edo and wait for Kagome." Miroku said, "Surely with Sesshomaru wanting to know where she is can only lead to trouble.

"As if His Highness-I Shall Not Sully Myself With Humans cares where Kagome is at. He probably only wanted her so he could my sword! Now I'm not telling you again, let's move out!"

The members of the pack started to gather their things, each lost in their own thoughts hoping that this time Inuyasha was right.

Miroku glanced back in the direction he knew the well to be in, a questioning glint in his eyes.

Perhaps, Sesshomaru-sama, we have given you exactly what you were wanting all along.

Kagome, may the Buddha watch over you.

...

Dun Dun Dun!