Over the course of the next week, the priestesses Kozui and Ramei had mentioned arrived, also in their company was Touga, he'd sought them out and got them there sooner rather than later and Kagome was more than happy to forgive him.
Then came rearranging guard patrols and how many to a squadron and of course meeting after meeting with the council alerting the ningen villages of the potential danger, Eri calming the ningen down with her intellect and assuring them that they would all be protected.
And not to forget sending five priestesses to each village and having them erect barriers, the children were sent away to stay with Totosai, Shippou and Souta with his barrier leading them to the mountain on their foxfire clouds.
Until three months had passed as they prepared, there was just one problem left to that needed to be dealt with, so with Hiten, Ishi and Eri, Kagome went to meet with Yaro again to ask for him to lend her some of his strongest fighters, those that were immune to dark miko powers.
Sesshomaru was tagging along so the three of them could come up with a solid plan together, he also intended to bring some of the youkai guards from his own estate in the West after this so that he was putting an active effort into helping Kagome as treaty dictated, he wasn't going to let anyone touch what he'd chosen to protect.
"Ah Lady Kagome pleasure to see you again and young Lord Sesshomaru of the West" Yaro the weasel youkai appeared just like he had the last time from the tree line his blue eyes narrowed and a knowing smile on his lips.
Kagome lowered her cloud to the ground and Eri climbed off standing behind her as Sesshomaru stepped up to her side "You know what I'm here for Lord Yaro, let's cut the chitchat this time and skip right to business, time is running out" she crossed her arms remaining level headed.
Yaro nodded and Sesshomaru's eyes flew between Kagome and the weasel youkai "Yes I suppose it's time I put in the effort between our lands, if we are going to follow through with being allies" he gave Kagome a smile gesturing for her and Sesshomaru to walk with him.
Eri walked in the middle while Ishi and Hiten took up the rear as they trekked across the Northern Lands to Yaro's Estate, it was a dark red "How do you like my Akairo" Yaro questioned gesturing to the massive building.
"It's quite lovely" Kagome nodded secretly adding that her's was even more beautiful "I want to propose a treaty between us after Akuto is taken down" she turned to the weasel youkai shocking him for just a moment but then Yaro tilted his head in acceptance.
"But of course Lady Kagome, no one has any complaints in you're lands after all, so a treaty is definitely in order, now as far as lending you some of my people, I do in fact have some dark miko resistant youkai, just a handful mind you" Yaro rubbed his chin.
Sesshomaru listened to the negotiations with a calm air about him, skirmishes had started breaking out on the border of the Eastern Lands and many of Kagome's guard had been injured by the dark miko and those that have chosen to fight with Akuto against her.
Kagome ran a hand through her unbound bangs, she'd had most of her hair cut so that it wasn't in the way during the fight, Shippou hadn't been to happy, all she could tell him was that it would grow back eventually and when it did she'd never cut it again just to appease him.
"How many are we talking about here Lord Yaro, the fight with Akuto is quickly approaching and I want to be ready, that bastard won't step a foot across the Eastern Border" the kitsune was obviously impatient and Yaro shared a smile with Sesshomaru.
Just so she didn't get anymore antsy, Yaro took a list one of his most trusted servants handed him "Fifteen, and they've already been given the talk, they know what they are risking by going into battle with you" he said so that Kagome didn't have to ask, they all knew how soft and kind hearted the Lady of the Eastern Lands was after all.
Clear in the Southern Lands, Akuto was gearing up as well, soon his plan would come to fruition "Listen" he called out over his servants and his gathered allies plus the twenty or so dark miko his minions had found for him and swayed to his side.
The main hall became silent and a smirk spread across his scaly lips, excellent everyone listened to him well "In one months time we'll attack the Eastern Region and take down those ningen loving youkai, and of course Kagome Higurashi" Akuto jeered.
This of course like it always did prompted cheers from his minions and servants "How are we going to take her down" a brave maid stepped forward keeping her gaze on the floor, Akuto shifted his yellow eyes onto the female youkai.
A chuckle fell from his scaly lips and he stood walking down the steps until he was before the servant, then Akuto lifted her head up forcefully, she tensed "Would you like to find out" he asked in a deceptively kind voice belying the rage boiling beneath the surface.
"No sir, Lord Akuto" she quickly shook her head stepping back in line, pleased Akuto sat back down in his throne, once he was seated he stared out over the main hall glaring the servants down until they cowered once more in submission.
Then he spoke "Do not question me servants of the Kiiro Estate, for I will punish you in the exact way I plan to punish that fox bitch before I utterly destroy her" Akuto growled in warning then leaned back to relax, just one more month and then the East would be his as well.
In the meanwhile negotiations with Yaro had gone well and Kagome was on her way back to the Aoiro Estate missing Sesshomaru since he'd told her he was going back to the West to gather some of his own warriors to help in the coming fight.
When she touched down "Lady Kagome" Deru was before her bowing low "Master Myoga has returned with some youkai and two ningen he thinks you should meet" he popped back up as Ni unlocked the gates for them, Kagome frowned.
Instead of asking "Thank you for informing me of this Deru, I'll send someone to relieve you and Ni from you're watch in a bit so that you may rest" Kagome nodded patted the twin kitsune brothers on the shoulder gave them both a quick smile and led the way into her Estate.
As she entered the main hall Kagome could immediately tell that something had happened, and as she made her way to her seat a familiar aura reached out to meet hers, she quickened her pace and there they were "Kikyo" Kagome called.
The long raven haired woman turned around and brown eyes met chocolate brown and Kagome knew it was the truth, by her side was Kohaku, Kanna and Kagura "I found them wandering in the South" Myoga leaped to Kagome's shoulder.
"Yes, we've been revived for several months now possibly a year, we aren't to sure, but we were without memories, we only recently started regaining them" Kikyo stepped forward closer to her reincarnation, "You're the Lady of the East" her brow creased.
Kagome nodded "Precisely, Mitsumeru-chan go get Sango and Miroku, Natsumeru go get Kaede" she turned and gave a couple of orders "As for you two, Kagura, Kanna" she walked towards them eyes narrowed on the wind witch and void child that were Naraku's reincarnations.
Kanna padded forward and reached up as Kagome leaned down "You are no longer ningen" she patted Kagome's cheeks gently, "You are a good alpha to those you take into you're pack, would you mind terribly if this Kanna joins" she tilted her head to the side talking in a different way.
Eyes wide chocolate brown sought out familiar red eyes "Is that what you want as well Kagura or do you desire freedom like before" Kagome spoke in low tones raising a barrier when the volume of the people in the main hall got to be to much.
Kagura bit her lip and looked at what would technically be called her little sister, they hadn't intended on staying long but she knew she wouldn't be able to begrudge Kanna anything "It's what I want" she gulped hoping that they would give her a chance to prove herself.
Kagome's lips curved upwards and gently pressed her youkai against Kagura and Kanna they submitted easily just as the three people she'd sent for arrived and busted through the main hall doors their own eyes wide in panic.
Glad that there were more females in her pack now, Kagome walked forward as Kaede, Miroku and Sango appeared at her side, the latter barely walking as it was and she felt horribly guilty "Sorry Sango-chan" she apologized.
"Oh that's okay Lady Kagome, what did you call us here for" Sango huffed and puffed and then sat down in a chair that suddenly appeared for her use, she watched her friend peer over her shoulder nervously then beckon someone forward.
He walked towards them slowly as if he had no idea what to do with his new life "Sango" Kohaku murmured when he spotted her, Sango's eyes rounded in awe, but before she could leap out of the chair he came to stand before her "Sister" Kohaku asked again in confusion.
"Yes Kohaku it's me" she wrapped her arms around her little brother sending multiple prayers of thanks to the fates for returning her precious brother to her, "We have so many things to speak about" Sango struggled to her feet and she, Miroku and Kohaku went back to their little home.
Before Kagome could even announce that Kikyo was alive and well, Kaede flew through the crowd "Kikyo" she called with a laugh hugging her elder sister for all she was worth, it wasn't quite the emotional reunion that everyone was expecting.
The woman in question blinked her eyes rapidly as she caught sight of who was hugging her "Kaede" Kikyo spluttered in confusion "Why the hell are you a youkai" she frowned her eyes flying around the hall until she spotted Kagome and finally made the connection, "It was YOU" Kikyo spat.
She didn't even deny the accusation "I'm gonna kill you" Kikyo struggled in her little sister's hold trying to get at her weapons, Kagome was surrounded on all sides until she had enough and she let everyone know it.
"Enough" Kagome growled glaring around "Stand down everyone" she ordered padding forward and sat down on her chair "Now Kikyo you must understand that I didn't take Kaede's choices away, she turned into a kitsune of her own volition" she clasped her hands in front of her as she spoke.
Those at her sides could feel her anger and wisely kept silent "But why Kaede, now you're just a ningen killing youkai" Kikyo cried softly into the younger version of her sisters shoulder, it was truly heartbreaking and her sister would never be the same.
Kaede rolled her eyes "Always a flare for the dramatics eh Sister Kikyo, I ain't killed no ningen since my turning and this Kaede protects ningen's just as she use to, in fact I still have me miko powers thanks to the fates" she huffed.
Not sure what to think of this "Why do you bare the same marks as she does then" spewed from Kikyo's mouth as she pointed at the heart on Kagome's forehead then Kaede's own, the two females shared a smile that was full of fondness.
"That be because this one married Kagome's grandfather thus I bare the House of Hearts Crests upon my body" Kaede traced her wrist marking hazel eyes filled with an inner light that Kikyo had never witnessed and finally the older/younger of the two as the case was now calmed down.
She had one last thing to say though "If that is the case that makes me a part of the family as well, and yet I do not bare those crests" Kikyo tilted her head to the side in confusion, a moment later she was to get another shock as he came forward hand in hand with another inuyoukai hanyou and a pup.
Inuyasha smiled at his old lover and clenched Hinoko's hand tightly as she held their pup, Fuketsu, "Well Kikyo you'd have to do the claiming ritual to be accepted into the family" he explained remaining level headed for once, in fact he didn't even feel the pull towards her anymore.
"Inuyasha" Kikyo murmured hesitantly reaching towards him with unsure brown eyes, just before she was to touch him, Kaede's hand latched around her wrist and pulled her back "What are you doing Kaede" Kikyo pressed her lips together angrily.
The kitsune that was her sister shook her head "Sister Kikyo it's not a wise idea to touch what's no longer yours, Inuyasha is a mated youkai now and has a child with Hinoko-san" Kaede warned and Kikyo flung her head up eyes flying across his face searching for a sign that would tell her it was a lie.
It wasn't because his golden eyes reflected the pain and heartache he felt for her and Kikyo collapsed "I'm sorry Kikyo, but I truly love Hinoko-chan" Inuyasha admitted for the first time in others presence that he held massive affections for his mate.
"But Inuyasha we were meant to be" Kikyo tried to sway him back to her side but Inuyasha turned his back on her for the first time since they'd met each other, tears trickled down her cheeks and she felt utterly humiliated "This is you're fault" she grew angry again and glared at Kagome.
Kagome sighed "It is fates design, if you and he were meant to be you would have seen through Naraku's tricks" she scolded gliding down the steps to stand before the woman sitting on the floor throwing a tantrum like she was a child once again.
Kikyo flinched, Kagome heard Higashigawa's familiar voice whisper behind her "Don't you think she's being a little to harsh" he asked Satomi where they were standing in the crowd, she ignored this for a moment and knelt down next to Kikyo.
"Now are you done throwing a fit Kikyo, who knows perhaps there is someone here that you will someday come to hold tender affections for just as you did Inuyasha" Kagome held out her hand hoping the miko would accept help from her.
Tired beyond belief, Kikyo took that hand and Kagome helped her to her feet "Kimasu would you take Kikyo to a room in the South Eastern Wing" the kitsune ordered, the panther youkai took Kikyo by the shoulders and led her down the halls whispering all the way.
"Now for you two, I'm sure you're quite tired" Kagome pinned chocolate brown eyes on Kagura and Kanna again "Tochaku and Noko will show you to the pack wing of the Estate, North Eastern" she swung around seeking out the two maids and they stepped forward.
"Please follow us this way" Noko motioned to the door and the two female youkai left trailing after the two panther youkai females, Kagome relaxed her shoulders just a tiny bit and Touga clasped her hand in his.
He flashed her a dazzling smile "Care to take a walk Kagome" Touga whispered in low dulcet tones soothing Kagome's frazzled nerves, she didn't hesitate and they exited through the side doors that led to her favorite garden in the entire estate.
Satomi frowned "Poor dear is just being stretched to thin" she sighed and Higashigawa wrapped his arms around her from behind settling his chin atop her head as a rumbling emitted from his chest in a soothing way, releasing the pent up tension she felt for her daughter.
"If I know Kagome" Higashigawa smiled, it was weird being able to say her name without the constant use of title "Then she won't stop until she manages to eradicate every single threat out there, which is Akuto right now" he paused.
"And then she'll go on this great big adventure out in the world and just enjoy her time here" he finished with a chuckle bringing a small smile to his mates lips, he loved her, he truly did, and now was definitely not the time to get her pregnant with little kits.
No they'd decided to wait until after the war with Akuto, the slimy snake youkai bastard was getting in a way of a lot of their happiness, they couldn't even celebrate what Satomi had told him should have been their honey moon phase when they'd mated, which is a break from everything.
"You're right about that Kagome dear sure is dedicated to these lands protecting them with a fierce veracity that surprises me sometimes, not to mention the possessiveness" Satomi giggled drawing attention to their little chat.
Inuyasha after sending Hinoko and Fuketsu back to their room "Yeah no kidding, and I thought Sesshomaru was possessive over things he saw his, but Kagome takes it to a whole new level" he shook his head in amusement.
Bankotsu smirked "Oh when we first met Lady Kagome after our revival, she scared my buzz right out of me, see me and Ja had taken to drinking every day upon returning" he started Jakotsu already laughing as he remembered all those months ago.
The inu he was talking to turned "Really what did she do, I can't imagine she was very subtle about it" Inuyasha inquired, when Bankotsu's cheeks turned red he became even more interested in what his best friend had done to the ex mercenaries.
Jakotsu cleared his throat "She used that little transparency trick and got close to our table, then unveiled herself, I don't think I'd ever seen Ban sober up that quickly before and then he fell flat on his face, spit his drink right across the room he did" he gave a sappy sigh to Bankotsu's embarrassment.
"Shut it Ja" Bankotsu grumbled but it was all in good fun, Inuyasha laughed like they knew he would, it really had been hilarious "We had to ride on the back of Kegawa with her" he suddenly remembered and Jakotsu choked on his air.
"Yeah I remember that to, you didn't even want to put you're arms around her waist" Jakotsu guffawed slapping his knee loudly "And then when Rin-chan saw us, I thought Lord Sesshomaru was going to eat us alive" he laughed.
Inuyasha shrugged, "You know you guys aren't half bad" he patted both Bankotsu and Jakotsu on the back then separated from the group to go find Hinoko, it was to bad Eri and Sesshomaru's mating ceremony had to be pushed back otherwise he'd have a sister in law.
Outside Kagome was still walking the gardens hand in hand with Touga, "I can feel it Touga, maybe just a few more weeks at the most and then Akuto will try to make his move, we have to be in position before then" she sighed staring up at the darkening sky.
Touga bit the inside of his cheek harshly and tasted blood, he didn't want to get in to a fight "I wish you were staying in the estate" he sighed and Kagome sent him a sharp look "But I know how much you want this to be over" Touga rushed out so that she didn't get angry with him.
She relaxed then knowing he was just concerned and had just said that because he was worried "Thanks Touga" Kagome sent him a small smile as she stared at the dai she'd ever so slowly fallen in love with over the months she'd revived him.
And he knew it to "Don't mention it Kagome, as much as I want you safe, you are crucial to the plan and possible the only one that will be able to take down Akuto" Touga patted her hand fondly as they continued their walk around the garden after having stopped to talk.
Kagome's lips curved upwards, she was glad to know she was so important to a plan, before she had use to feel as if no one relied on her, now an entire region did and she was determined to protect them even if she, no it was better not to think about the what if's or possible outcomes.
All that would do was give her a headache no she'd rather enjoy the last few weeks of peace, though all felt the presence to the south and it's creeping shadow across the lands to the East, Kagome wouldn't allow that bastard to even take one step upon her cherished home.
Then Kagome felt her mischievousness rising "So Touga when do you want to get mated" she asked with a straight a face as she could manage, in a move so unlike himself Touga stumbled before swinging around to look at her as if she'd just said the world was ending.
His cheeks turned red and suddenly it was if he couldn't even look her properly in the eyes anymore, Kagome tamped down on the urge to laugh "Well I was hoping that after this fight you and I could take some time off and go travel for a month or so" he coughed sheepishly.
Touga truly wanted to court her and her amusement faded as a more serious mood blanketed them "You want to get to know me" Kagome asked in a hopeful tone chocolate brown eyes wide and unsure as they stared at the older dai.
He finally looked her in the eyes and his golden-amber's turned into pools of molten liquid, it was the same looked he'd given her when he'd had her pinned to the wall outside the estate all those months ago "I do Kagome" Touga murmured in a heated voice.
Kagome exhaled shakily the overwhelming emotions she could see in Touga's eyes and over all his entire body language it screamed to her that she was it for him, there would be no others "I want to get to know the real you as well" she got a bit closer as if she was drowning in his scent.
The moment was broken as Koware came running towards her, two of her children waddling after her, making for an adorable sight "Milady Akuto's sent you a letter" she called holding out the scroll as she came to a stop before her Lady.
Touga sent Kagome a look as her skin paled "What is it Kagome" he asked gently taking the scroll from her hands and looking at it, his reaction was much the same just as Inuyasha came barging through the doors his expression murderous.
"Where the hell is Hinoko" he demanded with a thunderous growl and Touga thrust the scroll he held in Inuyasha's hands, his golden eyes flicked across the words and his jaw dropped in horror "All this time" he whimpered.
Suddenly Kagome whipped around and took off towards the estate "He won't get away with this" she growled sending shivers down Touga's spine, it wasn't the pleasant kind either, it was the holy shit she's pissed kind of growl.
Inuyasha shuddered it was never a wise idea to piss Kagome off on a good day when she was a ningen, now that she was a youkai, that anger had tripled in her turning "I bet she's going to change the entire plan" he warned and Touga took off after his chosen mate.
"Kagome, Kagome, KAGOME" Touga shouted trying to keep up with the vixen but she wouldn't even turn to acknowledge him, it was frustrating to say the least and he understood that she was angry but if the plan changed now then everything they've worked for would be lost.
Finally she stopped and Touga nearly flew past her "What Touga" Kagome snapped not in the mood for one of his talks, something had to be done to rescue Hinoko, it was her fault for not sending the female away with her son to hide on Totosai's mountain with the other children.
Her hackles raised, how long had that bastard been watching, did he know all of their plans, all they'd worked for was failing her in that moment "You can't change the plan now Kagome" Touga breathed taking her by the shoulders.
Kagome didn't even struggle instead she broke down as Inuyasha skidded to a halt "It's my fault, all mine alone, if only I'd sent her with the children, then Akuto wouldn't have gotten a hold of her" she cried softly.
Inuyasha grimaced "It's not your fault alone Kagome, it's mine as well for letting her out of my sight" he went to pat her on the back but Touga growled "Oh quit growling old man, Kagome's my friend and if I want to comfort her then I will" he snarled and in a show of stubbornness patted her on the back anyway.
Touga felt his face twitch in agitation, but he took a deep breath to remain level headed "We will get Hinoko back, but if we go charging into the Southern Region, then whatever Akuto has planned with succeed without fail" he rubbed her back in a soothing way as her cries slowed to a stop.
A moment later Sesshomaru glided down the hall "I just checked the situation in the South, it seemed Akuto is preparing for the attack, I'd say we have a few days..." he started talking only to pause mid sentence seeing the kitsune females tear streaked cheeks "What happened" he growled softly.
"Akuto somehow found a way to kidnap Hinoko, which means there was a spy here in the estate who did the dirty work for him" Inuyasha rubbed his face, he would fight to get his mate back no matter what, then something, a memory came to him.
And he spun to face Kagome again "Hey I just remembered something, the first time I saw you again in the village by the well" he snapped his fingers "How you made Hinoko part of you're pack by getting her to submit" Inuyasha practically shouted.
Kagome creased her forehead she did remember that moment, her eyes widened as she realized what Inuyasha was about to ask "Can you feel her since you have a pack bond with her" the younger inuyoukai though he was hanyou asked.
She closed her eyes spreading out her senses feeling for those that were pack, she felt Hakari in his caves with Ishi, Hiten was practicing his lightning attacks, Kouga, she froze at that before reaching out again he was with Ayame and their two pups, both boys that she had yet to meet.
Of course Kagome also felt Kagura and Kanna in a room together resting, and finally she felt out Hinoko all the way to the South in Akuto's disgusting clutches, her youkai was flared in distress, fear and pain, her eyes opened "I can" she breathed trying not to go rescue Hinoko.
Inuyasha sighed in relief, but he didn't dare ask knowing how fragile his friends state of mind currently was, "What were you saying before Sesshomaru" Kagome turned her attention on the younger dai and wiggled out of Touga's arms, now wasn't the time to seek comfort.
Sesshomaru cleared his throat "This Sesshomaru took the liberty of checking on the situation to the South by flying over the lands, what this one saw was Akuto preparing his troops and those he's gathered, we have little more than three days to get into position" he announced.
"Then we'll get into position" Kagome pivoted on her heel "Where's Fuketsu" she paused one last time Inuyasha pointed to the floor "Go to Hakari, tell him to take the pup to Totosai and the others, he'll just be a distraction" Kagome ordered and the hanyou bounded off to do as he was told.
Kagome stalked down the hall glad she'd had the foresight to order her entire guard back to the estate just a few days prior to this incident barking out commands to some of her servants especially Mitsumeru and Natsumeru, to have everyone gathered in the main hall in an hour.
She sat on her chair staring out over the entire room, taking in the light blue color, the flooring the doors, she grit her teeth as she was overcome with anger, this fight had to go exactly according to plan, she'd done everything she could to prepare her people, now all that was left was to win.
The minutes ticked by as servants, maids, the entire guard, and those she'd be taking with her into the fight trickled into the room "Kagome what's going on" Higashigawa approached and the kitsune female that was his daughter in law took a deep breath.
"I've just been informed that Akuto is preparing to march on the East in just three days time, if this is true we must get into position before it's to late" Kagome called out over the entire hall, prompting cheers from the guards, they were ready to defend their home and would die fighting for it.
Kagome looked over all of those she'd come to get to know in the several months since she'd become the Eastern Lady, she had to be strong "You are all prepared for this correct" she asked and everyone nodded "Good" Kagome nodded straightening her spine.
"Miroku, Kikyo, Hojo and his staff of medical youkai will be the farthest from the battle field, don't argue Miroku, if something happened to you Sango would strangle me" Kagome felt more than saw the frown being directed at her by the monk.
"You're job is to heal those that are sent you're way, the tent was set up and a barrier was placed over it keeping it invisible until someone approaches" Kagome explained and Hojo went off to gather his staff and everything he'd need to take with him in case more serious cases started showing up.
Kikyo was confused why was she being included into this fight "Why am I going with them" she asked brown eyes staring up at what would be considered her niece now, Kagome ran a hand through her shortened shoulder blade length blue/black hair.
"You can keep the barrier going, plus you're knowledge of herbs and medicine will be appreciate for sure" Kagome sighed and Kikyo nodded accepting the task she'd been handed and glad she was being kept away from the fighting part.
Then Kagome turned her eyes on the guard "In the air above the battle will be myself, Naraku, and Kagura, on the ground Ban and Ja will be at the front with the guard behind them in certain positions along the Eastern Border, no doubt some will try to sneak past" she warned.
"That's why the newer members of the guard, Kohaku, Higashigawa, Ni, Deru, Hiten, Kanna, Ishi and Hakari will stay here in the Estate in case that happens" she called getting a round of nods, they weren't going to argue especially since everything was riding on this moment.
Kanna padded forward holding her mirror "What task do you have in mind for me Lady Kagome-chan" she asked, looking more excited than she'd ever been in her entire creation, she wanted to do well so that her Alpha would praise her later on.
Kagome sent the void child youkai a soft smile, though it had only been a few hours, she'd gotten attached to the girl and knew she'd do anything to keep the little one safe "You're task Kanna-chan is to keep Hakari apprised of the situation on the battlefield" Kagome gestured at the mirror.
"And to let him know if there are any that break through and come here so that everyone will be ready" she explained and Kanna nodded, Kagura eyed her with wide eyes "Yeah, when you spend a lot of time talking to Naraku you kind of become a great strategist" Kagome rubbed the back of her head.
"Though I can't take all the credit, Ramei and Kozui are great military advisors, speaking of you're jobs are to take down the dark miko with those Lord Yaro sent us and those that Sesshomaru brought with him" Kagome ordered.
Kozui and Ramei bent at the waist "We understand Lady Kagome, we are prepared to die to protect the Eastern Lands and you as well Lady Kagome" Ramei rose to his full height then left the main hall to gather his weapons and armor.
"Thank you for coming here Lady Kagome, we are truly grateful to have such a magnanimous Lady leading us" Kozui admitted then followed after her partner, to prepare as well, Kagome squeezed her hands together and Sesshomaru pressed his hand on her shoulder.
This gave her the courage to continue "Inuyasha, Sesshomaru and Lord Touga will be towards the back using any attacks they see fit to use, I want them obliterated, and the minute Akuto shows himself" Kagome stopped and took a deep breath.
"Everyone is to get out of the way and make a break for the Estate, that snake is mine" she let out a dark growl as her inner youkai took command of her actions for a moment "He will rue the day he decided to mess with the East and those I've chosen to protect" Kagome called.
Touga eyed his chosen mate warily and Sesshomaru sent him a smug smile, he was tempted to whack the boy but now wasn't time for petty fights, instead he grit his teeth and stared out over the hall as everyone started preparing to leave.
Once the hall was cleared Kagome closed her eyes for a few moments to steel her nerves, then she was stood on her feet and walking the three steps down from the raised pedestal, Hakari took her place "Take care of everyone Hakari" she commanded.
"I promise Lady Kagome, no harm will come to anyone, just focus on getting Hinoko-san back and getting rid of that bastard Akuto" Hakari sat down in the chair as he watched his Alpha leave the main hall with Touga and Sesshomaru at her heels.
Kagome headed down the halls to her room, Mitsumeru and Natsumeru were there waiting for her, a short kimono was spread out on the futon and she pulled her armor from her void pocket, her two hand maids helped her into the shorter kimono and fitted her armor to her body.
Her headband was put in place, Mizubyokiyogan-chiryo-ho was in her sheathe against her hip, her belt of daggers was around her waist, and her mokomoko was thrown over her shoulder resting against her calf muscle "You're ready Lady Kagome" Natsumeru murmured.
The kitsune flashed them a radiant smile before her features settled into a more serious expression "Take care of yourselves and the others" Kagome ordered and the twin tiger youkai nodded and curtsied, then she left her rooms.
Outside the estate everyone was gathered "Let's move out" Kagome commanded forming her foxfire cloud beneath her feet taking to the skies, Naraku on his miasma and Kagura on her feather were right behind her and she used her fox magic to make the three of them invisible.
"So what's the plan Lady Kagome" Naraku inquired hoping that he wasn't going to be stuck in the air the entire time, he wanted to prove his worth just as much as everyone else, then he got a good look at the kitsune female and his eyes rounded in surprise.
Kagome smirked "Sesshomaru gave the armor and mokomoko to me, I don't wear it often, because it weighs me down, as for the plan, you will put up a wall of miasma no doubt the enemy will run into it" she grinned viciously, those fools didn't know who they were messing with.
Naraku chuckled, the girl was nothing like what he remembered, weak, always being protected by Inuyasha and others and only being able to wield her bow and arrows, now she had so much more plus an entire region of people on her side.
"Sounds like a plan" he nodded narrowing his eyes on the ground as they got in position, it would probably be a day before the others started arriving depending on how quickly they traveled, no doubt they'd push themselves to get there quicker.
For the first time Kagome sat down on her cloud "What do you intend for me to do Kagome" Kagura prodded hoping there was something she could do to help out as well, her question drew the kitsune's chocolate brown eyes onto her.
"You can still use you're attacks can't you" Kagome asked prompting Kagura to nod "Then use those only on the enemy that are placed at the rear, also use Dance of the Dead on the dead" she spoke settling in on her cloud wondering if she could sleep in the air, though she doubted it.
Naraku shared a look with his former reincarnation "Well I must say it's a surprise to see you alive" he grimaced, Kagura blinked and lowered her gaze "You don't have to do that anymore" Naraku shrugged, he was just like the others a member in Kagome's pack and didn't have any power.
Kagura frowned "Do you think everyone will escape this fight" she turned her attention on Kagome, and the kitsune female immediately tensed and she opened her eyes, and then Kagura had her answer, Kagome was unsure.
"I can only hope but every great leader knows that casualties will always be expected in a battle, it's only a matter of who, it's the not knowing part that tears my heart in pieces" Kagome closed her eyes again trying to shove all of her concerns to the back burner for the time being.
When night hit and no one had appeared yet, the three of them braved finding a resting place on the ground to rest and regain the youkai they'd used up while hiding in the air, Kagome erected a barrier that would keep them from sight and a fire was created.
From her void pocket she pulled a cooler that had some fish and herbs and dinner was made with Kagura's help "You know you remind me a lot of Sesshomaru" the wind youkai murmured through her bite of fish, she'd been thinking about it all day after all.
"He is the one who taught me most of what I know and of course about pack" Kagome tossed her stick onto the fire and watched it burn, the glow reflected her eyes giving them a light that Touga would possibly enjoy seeing sometime, but that was for another time.
Naraku's brow climbed into his bangs "Sesshomaru taught you why, and you never really did explain how you ended up like that, we have the night and possibly tomorrow Lady Kagome" he prodded hoping she would tell them and trust them now that they were pack.
Kagura nodding made the decision a little easier "So it started like this, six months after Inuyasha was stung by a hell wasp" she sent an exasperated look at Naraku to indicate who she meant and he avoided her gaze feeling guilty more than ever.
"Inuyasha started pulling away from me and one night as I was bathing in the hot springs, I guess I talked aloud and Sesshomaru's voice told me to go find out what would sway Inuyasha from me" Kagome looked sad for a moment.
They knew immediately she'd gone seeking the hanyou out "I did of course and found him with mating with Hinoko-san, then I decided to strike out on my own, that was not fates design for me" Kagome chuckled lightly lifting her head to the starry sky.
"No, Sesshomaru approached me with an offer, he said he'd protect me while I performed various perilous seemingly impossible tasks to revive his father, Lord Inutaisho, Touga" she admitted drawing a gasp from Kagura and a look of interest from Naraku.
And she'd obviously completed her task "So what all did you have to go through to amass the power and how that ties in with turning into a kitsune" Kagura motioned for Kagome to continue the tale hoping to get more information.
Kagome's lips curved upwards "I had to break a barrier with my own, fight Hakari, make him submit, create a sword" she pointed at chiryo-ho "Learn to wield it and use it's abilities, get a vassal, Koware-chan" Kagome grinned.
"Of course I also became an Alpha Female in the process, perhaps that's what part of the fates design also was, then I had to get these crests" she caressed the heart on her forehead with a clawed finger ever so gently in a fond way.
"It ties in with turning into a fox, see I always saw Shippou as my son, so I adopted him with a youkai claiming ritual after I got these crests, of course fate had a helping hand and I was just turned into a youkai kitsune" she explained.
"Afterwards I came to the East and defeated Yaramaru and became the new Lady of the East, and finally after my coronation I went to the netherworld and got Touga's soul and revived him" Kagome finished leaning back on her hands staring into the fire once again.
For as short of an explanation as it was, Naraku and Kagura got the hint "How long did it take you to complete you're task" Naraku prodded gently, he had this feeling that it had taken her a long time to carry out fates design.
Another smirk "An entire year that's how long it took me to complete the task assigned to me by the fates and once Akuto is gone, I'm going to take a nice relaxing vacation with Touga" Kagome giggled, it would be nice to have him to herself for awhile so that she could come to know him.
"Lord Inutaisho huh, what's so special about him, I mean he's just another dog after all" Kagura sulked, she'd approached Sesshomaru before they'd left and he had turned her down stating that he had already found someone he wanted to mate.
Kagome broke down in a bunch of giggles "For one he's my soul mate, according him I was created to be his mate, though we are rather hot-headed sometimes, he's my match in every way and I want to get to know him so that we can marry/mate someday" she paused for a moment.
Then in the most mischievous voice either of them had ever heard Kagome use "Only after I lead him on a good and long chase, I won't just let anyone get a piece of me" she gestured to herself "Lord Touga has to prove himself" she chuckled her eyes filled with mischievous intent.
Naraku shook his head and Kagura guffawed "You know I use to have it bad for Lord Sesshomaru" she admitted sheepishly and Kagome leaned forward eager to hear more, of course she knew he would never give up Eri, but there was always someone out there for everyone, just had to wait.
"Yeah before we left I talked to him and he turned me down claiming he already had his mate chosen and that they were just waiting until Akuto was taken down" Kagura slumped her shoulders "Some girl named Eri or something" she sighed.
Kagome patted Kagura on the shoulder "There's someone out there for you Kagura, just be patient for a bit longer, just look at Lord Touga, he's been waiting for hundreds of years to be revived and he had to wait even longer than that, just for me" she said.
Kagura smiled "Thanks you aren't a half bad alpha, you won't get any complaints from me" she held up her hands then leaned back in the soft grass, Naraku settled against a tree just a ways from the fire and Kagome closed her eyes holding tightly to chiryo-ho.
The sword was thrumming gently and glowing a luminescent pink color speaking to Kagome in the only way she could assuring her user that everything would end with her winning, this was not how her time ended and she would be the victor.
It was a slow two days after that as the guard and all she'd chosen to have be there for the fight trudged towards them and got into position, Kagome could feel Akuto and his minions and the dark miko marching towards them as well, but they'd hold steadfast to their positions.
Half way towards them Kagome felt Akuto's youkai disappear into thin air and she narrowed her eyes "It's time, when you see Hinoko, get her to me as fast as you can Kagura" Kagome jumped to her feet explaining the hanyou female to the wind youkai then they were in the air vanishing from sight.
Three hours later after a tense waiting period as the massive youkai and reiki from the dark miko crested over the hill and bared down on them, Bankotsu lifted his halberd, that he'd named Banryuu, narrowed his cobalt blue eyes as the enemy stepped into sight.
Naraku made a wall of poisonous miasma and like Kagome had thought a few idiotic youkai hoping to take down the army opposing their entrance into the East leaped forward into the cloud, fifteen immediately died.
Bankotsu smirked took a deep breath glanced to the right of him "Ready Ja" he asked, Jakotsu nodded his own sword held in his hand ready to unleash hell upon the enemy, they faced forward together and Bankotsu swung his halberd down "CHARGE" he shouted leading the attack just as the first crack of thunder tore through the air and rain poured down on them, blades clashed and it was chaos.