Disclaimer: All characters from the series Inuyasha that appear in this fanfic rightfully belong to Rumiko Takahashi. I do not own anything regarding their creation; I have Rumiko Takahashi to thank for that.

Author's Notes: Please bear with me if I make any mistakes or errors, especially in terms of the language. Saying this, I'm indeed trying to look for a volunteer who could help beta-read this story, as some of you have already noticed. Hence, if anyone is indeed interested, please either PM me or go to my profile for additional details about this story's progress.

Thank you to fabelliot, bubu-chibi-chan, 8579, sastra, and yami2703 for your review. Your feedback and support are very motivating and they are a big part of what drives me to continue.

fabelliot: Hello friend, it's certainly great to see how understanding you are whenever I'm behind schedule. I was indeed very busy and there were a few problems that needed immediate care. But now they're in the past, I'm going to continue trying my hardest with this story. Thank you so much for your support and I hoped that you'll like this chapter as much as you liked the last one. :D

bubu-chibi-chan: And thank you for offering to beta read. It'll be a great help. However, it seems that your email address can't be viewed from the review, possibly because the site took it out. Hence, please refer to the above if you are interested as I've put a way to get in contact with me (temporary for those without a fanfic account) on my profile. Thanks and hoping to hear more from you.

8579: Glad that you enjoyed the fighting scene. As you may or may not be aware, I'm not too confident with fighting scenes as they are indeed one of my weakest parts in writing. But hearing how you and others think about it is a real boost to my confidence. So thank you.

sastra: Hello, I'm really happy to see you again. It's a great joy to me that you found re-reading the story a pleasing task and have supplied such a long and thoughtful review.

Yep, I'm trying to make Kotori's character (as well as other OCs) as deep as I can so she is able to have rich interactions with the canon characters, which are all filled with amazing and expansive personalities. She is indeed what you said she is and I also believe that the roles she plays for Sesshomaru, Inuyasha, and Kikyo do have their significance, as you've insightfully pointed them out.

As for Hibiki, he was initially a means for me to emphasize the rules of the west but soon evolved to being like a second dad/guardian to Sesshomaru, who is at what I can only describe as a 'rebellious stage' (ah, Sesshomaru…! No, I didn't say anything like that…). Ahem! Anyways, Hibiki is the composed and fatherly type who just wants to have an early and peaceful retirement. It's too bad that the Inu no Taisho left him with huge problems to take care of. Well, that just shows the close bond and trust the two shared, even if I hadn't explicitly stated it.

Yeah, most people took that for granted too because of the canon. But I did try to slip in cryptic hints throughout until the reveal last chapter. For example, back in chapter 13, Hibiki obeyed Inuyasha in a humble manner despite supposedly outranking the latter.

Don't worry, SessKik and their past will be coming up next, right after this entire conflict is dealt with and Inuyasha gets a shot in the spotlight. Let's just say I'm looking forward to getting all that down on paper as much as you're eager to read it.

Once again, thanks for the review, and please enjoy this chapter.

yami2703: Yeah, the truth is out of the bag now. And unfortunately, the timing is terrible considering that the group is dealing with Shishinki at the moment.

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Chapter 18-Three Swords of the Honorable Ruler II

Last time – In an endeavor to retrieve the stolen So'unga to stop the undead, Sesshomaru and Inuyasha fight Shishinki, the owner of the powerful technique, Meido Zangetsuha. During the chaotic battle, Sesshomaru discovers that Tenseiga is capable of unleashing an incomplete form of the Meido Zangetsuha. Now also under the potential threat of being sent to the netherworld himself, Shishinki attempts to pit Sesshomaru and Inuyasha against each other and reveals a secret that stirs conflict within the latter's heart…

"Take this! Meido Zangetsuha!" No longer appearing completely at ease, Shishinki's eyes bore into his opponent with immense concentration as he unleashed his attack.

"Meido Zangetsuha!" Following the direction that Shishinki swung his staff, Sesshomaru let loose another wave of energy that distorted the space around him.

While the two daiyoukai exchanged blows, Inuyasha was left in a muddled mess. He didn't know what to think, and only recalled how his mother had gently stroked his face and narrated tales about her encounter with a father who he never met. Her passionate voice highlighted her fondness for her mate, though the younger Inuyasha could also detect the grief kept hidden. When asked for his father's presence, his mother would vaguely tell him that he had perished for their sake but never elaborated on it.

Inuyasha's hand trembled as he reached out to grab Tessaiga's hilt, his claw digging into the sword's hilt. A mixture of convulsed emotions stirred within him. For what reason did he have in this fight anymore? Aside from the fact that Sesshomaru could most likely fend off Shishinki on his own, joining in would mean aiding the so-called 'elder brother' who had been deceiving him.

In all honesty, he was both shocked and upset that his only living family member turned out to be the arrogant bastard who frequently dismissed him.

As much as he loathed to admit it and understood that it was part of a verbal snare, Shishinki had a valid point. Sesshomaru, his older brother who he hadn't recognized until now, was rejecting his existence and denying his birthright. While the latter wasn't what Inuyasha sought, it was exceedingly painful to know that he was not only being cast aside, but was also being omitted from the truth for centuries.

'How dare he hide the truth!?'

He didn't know about the connection so he never asked. His main concern was that Sesshomaru had the nerve to keep such a critical fact a secret and ensure that no one else could tell him about it. With the truth exposed, he could now comprehend why Myoga cowered in fear and apologized.

"So… all this time, that bastard was playing me for a fool." A low growl escaped Inuyasha's throat as he pulled his sword out from the soil, tearing apart the ground underneath with his strength. "You knew who I was all along. You knew we're brothers… but you never told me or acknowledged me. It's all because I'm a hanyou, a disgrace in the family… Isn't that right, Sesshomaru!?"

Not a response came from Sesshomaru, who was engaged in a duel against Shishinki. But even supposing that Inuyasha had chosen a more appropriate timing for his question, he doubted that the daiyoukai would've paid him any heed regardless.

"N-No, Inuyasha-sama! That's not it!" The familiar voice dragged Inuyasha's eyes towards the edge of the mountain, where Kotori stood with her hands on her bent knees. The demoness was panting profusely, no doubt having exhausted much of her strength from scaling up the sheer altitude of the mountain. Even so, she lifted her head to gaze into his distraught-filled eyes with a gentle look.

"What would you know?" Inuyasha instinctively barked, finding the need to express his frustrations. He felt betrayed. The deception cut deep into his heart and the pain manifested into a vicious snarl.

How dare Sesshomaru!

He had every right to know!

Another growl left his throat. "What could you possibly know? No… you would know too. If he trusted you enough to tell you! Is that why you're defending him?"

"No. I don't know. This is the first time I've heard about this. Believe me… I'm just as surprised as you are. And it's true. I can't claim to know Sesshomaru-sama's every intention. However, please consider the possibility that he is concealing the truth for your sake," Kotori exhaled deeply and continued before Inuyasha could scoff at the sheer absurdity of her comment. "You should understand Sesshomaru-sama's mannerisms. He would've killed you if he wished ill of you. Yet, he permitted your stay in the West."

"Keh! He's not the type to care. And we both know it. He's just a cold bastard who picked us up because he saw our talents," he snorted as he rejected the notion in an instant. "We're nothing but tools to him!"

"The west was never lacking in the talented, Inuyasha-sama. I can even offer you an entire list of names. You should know some of those youkai too. However, Sesshomaru-sama chose us as part of the minority who could have the privilege to stand close to him," Kotori calmly replied, unruffled by the harsh tone. "Regardless of his initial reasons, Sesshomaru-sama cared enough to give us — rejected individuals and victims of prejudice — both a place to belong."

"That's…" The slightest hint of hesitation was born and words struggled to formulate themselves in Inuyasha's mouth. His eyes dropped onto the ground, dodging Kotori's gaze as if afraid of the unwavering faith being presented from within her sapphire orbs.

Ludicrous as they seemed at first thought, her comments drifted into his consideration. Denial was the foremost notion, even if a part of him wanted to believe in her. It was far too ridiculous to be true. Sesshomaru had never bothered with him so he could never have cared about him. Although come to think of it, the daiyoukai's personality was a barricade for any successful interactions, regardless of whom it was from. So it was impossible for him to showcase his deepest thoughts.

When regarding Inuyasha, there was mostly a look of disdain. However, there weren't acts of prejudice directed towards him. Sesshomaru never physically discriminated against him, nor did he forbid him to climb ranks. In fact, he didn't seem enthused back when the other youkai generals shunned him from their training routine. Inuyasha was a child then, though he could still vaguely recall the unmistaken glowers Sesshomaru hurled at those who badmouthed him. But then again, it could all be due to the desire to mold Inuyasha into a useful warrior for his path of conquest.

It was impossible to fathom Sesshomaru's true intent, though what Kotori said did have some credibility. In spite of the apparent hatred Sesshomaru had towards his impure blood, he was granted a stable life in the west, as someone who could strive for achievements with merits instead of inheritance.

'It could be because I'm a training buddy for Kotori.' Just when he was somewhat swayed, another thought reeled him back toward being skeptical. But as quickly as uncertainty surfaced, another mental rebuttal dispersed it. Sesshomaru was not one to accommodate another's whims. Even if Kotori begged for him specifically, there was still a high chance that Sesshomaru would replace him with someone else who was just as competent if he ever felt like it.

So… could there be a slim possibility that Sesshomaru kept his identity a secret to protect him? Inuyasha knew that there were often power struggles from within the demon's hierarchy, with many having an ulterior motive. While birthright offered a greater chance of claiming headship, it was ultimately power that determined the authority of a youkai. Hence, no matter how generous a ruler was, he would always have those who sought to usurp his position lurking around.

Judging by how things were, even his old man had attracted the unwanted attention of Shishinki. If there was one, there would most likely be many others. And now that the Inu no Taisho was dead, they would most likely target those related to him for vengeance. Perhaps the main reason why Inuyasha was kept under the radar was because Sesshomaru had covered for him, taking all the assaults instead.

In that sense, Inuyasha would not be caught in the political strife or used as a bargaining chip.

A scoff found its way toward Inuyasha's throat. The idea that Sesshomaru would protect him certainly didn't sound Sesshomaru-like at all.

It was all so confusing that his brain hurt. Forcefully dragging himself back to the present, Inuyasha noticed the numerous holes scattered around the ground. The realization that he had been spacing out for quite a while hit him. It was fortunate he hadn't been caught in the crossfire just yet. Although, perhaps it was wrong to brand luck as his savior, for it dawned on him that Kotori had dragged him to a safer area, away from the middle of the fight.

'Dammit! This isn't the time to be doing this! I need to make up my mind now and do something!' His free hand formed a fist and landed a punch on the left side of his face. It served as a wake-up call, arming him with a new resolve that vanquished his doubts.

"Inuyasha-sama! What're you doing?" Kotori's concerned voice drifted into his ears, though he didn't answer immediately.

Instead, he took in her form along with her surprised expression. A fortified grin spread across his face. The answer he sought was right in front of him. How could he have allowed his deliberations to lead him astray for so long? Right now, it didn't matter what motives Sesshomaru or Shishinki had in mind because he wouldn't side with either of them. What was of importance was that the one before him was someone he could trust wholeheartedly. Kotori was never one for manipulation so plotting against him was unimaginable. Besides, she had already shown that she could leap straight into danger for his sake. So now, it was time for him to prove himself.

"You're one hell of a stubborn woman," he said out of the blue, which prompted a frown to descend on the demoness' features.

"Did that blow damage your head? This is hardly the time for insults, Inuyasha-sama." Despite her words, she was not short on a rejoinder.

"Keh! You have a sharp tongue, that's for sure... But I guess I'm glad at least you're honest about things. You're too straightforward for any tricks," he paused to flash her with his trademark grin. The demoness could only blink in return, presumably confused by his change in attitude. He didn't blame her for being flabbergasted, though he promptly moved on before she could dwell on the fact that he had given her a rare compliment. "Anyways, be grateful that I'm listening to what you've said before about Sesshomaru. I won't question anything else for now. But you better give me a better reason for his motive than the crap you pulled out after this fight."

At that, Kotori smiled. It was transitory, but one filled with hopeful expectations. "Fine, I'll make a deal with you. We'll discuss all the possibilities afterward. So don't lose and come back safely with Sesshomaru-sama, Inuyasha-sama."

"I don't do losing. Now get over to where Kikyo is. It's safer there. I'll have this taken care of in a few minutes!" With that said, Inuyasha transformed Tessaiga and charged forward with scrutinizing eyes. He saw Kikyo at a safe distance away, observing the battle with a pensive expression. Kotori had heeded his words and was crossing a crater to join the miko, with Myoga hanging by her hair. Contented that they were out of harm's way, the hanyou turned to the battle.

With dozens of Meido Zangetsuha aiming for Sesshomaru, Inuyasha found his opening and slipped into striking range. He swung his blade and released a volley of diamond shards. "Kongosoha!"

Even though his concentration was on Sesshomaru, Shishinki didn't lack vigilance. Noticing the attack, he flourished his staff in one drastic motion and let loose several smaller-sized Meido. The diamonds pierced into the black void, only to be sucked in.

Shishinki leaped back, distancing himself from Inuyasha. "So the half-demon has decided to support his older brother. I thought anger consumes you from his deception. I did hold some hope that you'd be reasoned, and join my cause. No matter. I shall deal with you once I've buried Sesshomaru."

"Shut up or—" The threats Inuyasha was about to hurl were left forgotten when his brain found a jeer that could prove to be far more effective than what he was originally going to say. "Keh! The only one who's gonna be buried is you. Just wait until I kick your ass and Sesshomaru masters the Meido Zangetsuha that you're so proud of using!"

"Do not interfere." Looking as unemotional and refined as he always was, Sesshomaru landed next to Inuyasha and pitted him with a warning glare. The daiyoukai's youki twirled around his majestic form, hinting at the inner irritation that betrayed his exterior of impassiveness.

"Hell no! I ain't letting you hog all the glory," Inuyasha scoffed and studied Sesshomaru up and down, unfazed by the intimidating demonic energy that hoarded around them. In no way was he going to stand idly and observe, not when his heart was telling him this was a fight he must partake. Even if he was to take Kotori's viewpoint away from the equation, there was still the fact that he was indeed the second son of the Inu no Taisho. He had every right to be involved in a conflict that dealt with Shishinki's retribution against his father. Even supposing he didn't get to know his father, no one could deny the blood that ran in his veins.

The refusal prompted Sesshomaru's youki to condense around him, radiating with not only intense might but also a murderous nature. Had Inuyasha been someone less accustomed to such a terrifying form of intimidation, then surely he would've backed off. However, the hanyou was gallant as he was defiant, so he held his ground firmly.

"Look here. You might not want the help but I'm bored from watching the pointless back-and-forth attacks between you two," he paused and let out an annoyed huff upon realizing that he would need to alter his phrasing. His logic fought against pride and was triumphant, which subsequently prompted him to make a rare attempt to appeal instead of being contemptible. "…Besides, the others won't be able to hold out forever against the swarm of undead. So if you do want to protect the place we call home — the territory that the old man handed down to you — then we gotta get rid of this loser now… So why don't we — Argh, can't believe I'm actually saying this. Kotori, you better be grateful — just team up and get this over with once and for all?"

The glare Sesshomaru directed at him didn't lose its intensity, though the daiyoukai prolonged the stare for another second before turning his head to face their common foe. "Hmph. Don't get in my way."

"Yeah, yeah. Same goes for you." Taking that as consent, Inuyasha grinned boldly and adopted an attacking position. He had every intention of making himself appear feral and unstoppable, though his daunting posture only managed to paint a smirk on Shishinki's lips.

"Hahahaha!" The Ogre of Death laughed, with all the mockery trickling down. "You siblings amuse me. Half-demon, do you really believe that Sesshomaru can master the Meido Zangetsuha? Like I said before, Tenseiga cannot perform my technique. What you wield is just a second-rate sword compared to Tessaiga and So'unga. Your old man must have thought that to be true, which is why he didn't grant it the ability to perform a complete Meido. No amount of practice will change that!"

Despite all the belittling being hurled, Sesshomaru stood with a carriage of full confidence, his Tenseiga gripped in one hand. Tilting his chin at an arrogant angle, he gazed at Shishinki in a way that a conqueror would view a commoner. "My father's supposed intention… It is not meant to be uttered by a mouth as wretched and twisted as yours. Every word you speak brings shame to his prominence."

"Do not be so quick to defend him. Surely you must've guessed his plans and how unfair they are to you."

"And what would you know about the old man's plans?" Inuyasha demanded with a raised fist.

"Naturally, I would know. I was present as the old dog drew his last breath. He fought me to obtain the Meido Zangetsuha for a reason. Do you know why?" The question was apparently not supposed to be answered since Shishinki left no time for contemplation and spoke again, passing a glimpse at So'unga wedged on the ground. "He wished to cast So'unga into the Netherworld. Even as the fabled True Ruler, previously chosen by The Three Swords of the Honorable Ruler, he feared the sword's evil powers. But his greatest mistake was underestimating the power of my Meido Zangetsuha! The egotistic thief failed to harness it and was instead pulled into the very realm itself. In his final moments, I saw him split his soul into two — merging the fragments with Tessaiga and Tenseiga. The two blades were teleported according to his will, thus narrowly escaping the fate that his empty husk of a body suffered."

"The old man's soul… it's inside Tessaiga and Tenseiga," Inuyasha muttered, his eyes widening as he stared at his blade as though he could see the face of the father he never knew. "So he's right by our side all this time, looking out for us…?"

"As expected of a half-demon, you're only half-correct. You can certainly say that the old man has your interest at heart. But what of poor Sesshomaru's desires? His eldest son's dream was of little concern to him. Why else did he manipulate Tessaiga's selection with his power? Hahaha, what do you think, Sesshomaru? Legends say that the Three Swords of The Honorable Rulers will select a warrior deemed worthy as the True Ruler. But why was the decision not in concordance? I'll tell you why! Your own father is the exact reason why you were rejected by Tessaiga!"

Absolute silence reigned superior. It was as if time itself had stopped as none of the combatants moved. Finally, a surge of youki crackled around Sesshomaru and the spell was broken. Shishinki smirked and Inuyasha instinctively backed a step, all the while looking at the increasing power surrounding the daiyoukai.

All the questions that Sesshomaru had occasionally pondered for centuries were answered. Why did Tessaiga protect Inuyasha from harm? Why would Tenseiga rattle to ease him when he was angered? His father's soul, his will, was embedded within. In a sense, it was no different than having a part of the great Inu no Taisho around.

Nevertheless, Sesshomaru didn't find the contentment that Inuyasha did. He could clearly recall how Tessaiga would reject him each time he tried to touch it, leaving temporary scars by scorching his hand. Looking at it with the given facts, it was no different than his father denying him of what should be his, and of his destiny. 'I've come to accept that Tessaiga has chosen Inuyasha for reasons I cannot comprehend. And now I find out that this is what Father wants. Why, father? Why would you treat me this way?'

As if deriding Sesshomaru had become his lifetime objective, Shishinki delivered his sentences in a way that was like rubbing salt on a wound. "Sesshomaru, your old man's faith in you has always been quite low, it seems. If it wasn't so, why did he not bequeath the Meido Zangetsuha to you? He certainly could have, given the opportunity. Do you now see? He neglected you in favor of your little brother. He believed in the half-demon's potential more than yours. He believed that you were incapable of being the True Ruler. You are the inferior one."

"Silence!" The volcano buried deep in thick layers of ice woke from its slumber and erupted. Like an instant fire that ignited the entirety of Sesshomaru's body, it sought to engulf all his indifference. In that instant, Sesshomaru became a blur that channeled awe-inspiring youki into Tenseiga, enrapturing the space around them with a Meido after a Meido.

The disfigured Meido could be countered with his perfectly spherical ones, though the sheer number being created simultaneously was placing the technique's original creator, Shishinki, under duress. With each of Sesshomaru's unrelenting and powerful strokes, the Ogre of Death was compelled to retaliate swiftly and with finer control, or else risk his premature demise.

Although fighting had always been a catalyst for many youkai to improve, the rate that Sesshomaru was delivering his attacks was all too daunting. Such strength, such skills, such stamina, and such agility — if Shishinki left him to continue his growth unhindered, there was no doubt that Sesshomaru would one day give birth to a power that far surpassed the Inu no Taisho. Not only that, but there was also the possibility that he would become unparalleled within the Great Continent.

He definitely couldn't be left alive. Shishinki needed to kill him today, even without the grudge he held for the dog's father.

"Die, Sesshomaru! I'll banish you to the underworld and you can be reunited with your old man!" Upon noticing a faint opening, Shishinki roared and generated a Meido that rapidly expanded in size never seen before. Its growing size had reduced its speed, though that didn't make it any less frightening as it loomed over Sesshomaru and Inuyasha, intending to drag them both into the abyss.

As if sensing the impending danger, Tenseiga and Tessaiga rattled with an urgency that left no room for dismissal. Following his sword's guide without any hesitation, Inuyasha leaped over to where Sesshomaru was. At the proximity, the two blades pulsed in time as one, their surfaces coated with a layer of blackish-purple that reflected the interior of the Meido.

"Sesshomaru," Inuyasha called out as he lifted his blade above his head. Planting his bare feet firmly into the ground, he resisted the forceful pull from the approaching Meido. Through his wind-swept hair, he looked over to his elder brother with a flash of desperation in his golden pools. "There's not much time! At this rate, all of us are done for. I'll time my swing with yours. So swing Tenseiga!"

The eagerness Sesshomaru demonstrated with his swings earlier seemed to have been exterminated the moment his Tenseiga beckoned him with a call. Appearing unfazed even as the Meido drew closer, he instead locked his sight on the sword he held in his hand. 'What do you want, Father? Are you telling me to fight alongside Tessaiga? Worst yet, are you telling me to help Tessaiga, to help Inuyasha master a technique?'

The Meido was getting closer. The smaller rocks around them were hurled into the darkness, never to be seen again.

"Sesshomaru-sama! Inuyasha-sama!"

"Hurry up, Sesshomaru!"

Two shouts rang out simultaneously, though his attention was elsewhere.

"Ask your heart, Sesshomaru: does your father's partiality change the way you regard him? You respect him for who he was, and I'm certain he loved you for who you are. It's in a father's nature to care for his children. The bond between a father and his children will remain steadfast. Your father will never become your foe."

A soothing voice called out to him from within him and in an instant, he noted a telepathic link had been established. It seemed distinct and echoic, like a summoning from another dimension. Still, it was familiar and once he overlooked its meddlesome nature, he could recognize the attempt at sincere consolation.

It was too bad that Sesshomaru found it unnecessary, though he did acknowledge what was said. Although, how dare she talked about being biased, as if skimming over how biased and unfair the Inu no Taisho was being? Regardless of how powerful he became, he would never be granted a spot at the peak of his father's heart. On the other hand, Inuyasha could be as weak and small as a measly bug and still receive all the affection as his father's favorite. In that case, what was the point of arguing over the facts? It was the indisputable truth that stung with the force of a thousand needles piercing into his heart.

'You know nothing of Father's plan. Tessaiga is a fang that absorbs techniques. Once I've attained perfect control over the Meido, Father will have Tenseiga relinquish the technique to Tessaiga, to Inuyasha.'

Indeed, the Meido Zangetsuha was a powerful technique that could protect Inuyasha. The implication meant that once the technique was confirmed to be safe to use, its completed form would be transferred over to Tessaiga. His father's soul, which contained his will, would ensure that the blade would be Inuyasha's for all eternity. Thus, any chances of Sesshomaru acquiring its approval would be non-existent. His desire of becoming the True Ruler and walking the path of conquest would become unattainable. In short, his father was going to sacrifice his eldest son's dream to coddle the youngest.

The Meido was getting closer still. The larger debris flew past them, dragged into the underworld.

"I shall repeat myself. It's in a father's nature to care for his children."

The faintest shadow of a frown creased his brows, though he retained his building frustration with his honed self-control. 'You dare undermine my judgment and my understanding of my father?'

"No, I cannot presume to know your father better than you. However, I have faith that blood is thicker than water. A father may sometimes dismiss his children but never will he disregard them. And more often than not, when a father denies his children of certain privileges, it is for their own good."

The Meido was so close now. Sesshomaru had to press his feet firmly into the ground, utilizing the fiction to prevent him from being pulled in.

"Hahaha! The time has come, Sesshomaru! Vanish from my sight forever!" Shishinki was laughing in the background, so assured of his victory.

"Sesshomaru, what the hell are you doing? We're gonna get sucked in! Use your sword!" He picked up on Inuyasha's frantic yell but it was filtered out as the voice cut in.

"If you tell me that your father favors Inuyasha, then that is a judgment I'm inclined to believe. However, if you try to convince me that your father intends to pave the path for Inuyasha's growth by sacrificing all your effort, then that is when I express my doubt."

'…Hmph, mind your own business, miko. I have no need for your pestering nature.' Terminating their mental exchange, Sesshomaru ripped off the talisman stuck on his kimono, close to his boot. From the moment the miko had left it there, back when he had her secured in his hold, he had known about its presence. Nevertheless, he didn't bother to remove it even if he didn't know what it was going to be used for. As it turned out, it was simply a communication means, one that he found absolutely unnecessary.

He released the useless slip of paper, which was immediately taken by the Meido. The gateway to the Netherworld was looming over him and even his spiraling youki couldn't prevent it from gripping onto him. Sesshomaru found his boots sliding across the ground, in the same manner as Inuyasha's bare feet were scraping against the rough surface.

It was either now or never. With death being the last thing on his mind, especially at the hands of an opponent his father had defeated, Sesshomaru decided he would indulge Tenseiga's whims. "Never, Shishinki! I will not allow my life to be taken by a scum like you!"

Hearing that, Inuyasha primed himself with anticipation. Everyone's life was hanging on the balance and it would appear that Sesshomaru had made the decision to act.

"Inuyasha." The name was uttered in an apathetic manner, though the recipient understood the meaning. Their coordination became a single entity as the brothers swung their blades. Faster than a heartbeat, their circular Meido amplified in size and rapidly outgrew Shishinki's. Like a predator cornering its prey, it engulfed the smaller Meido before proceeding to yank the Ogre of Death into its mouth.

Shishinki was dragged away, claimed by the Meido as he disappeared from the surface of the earth. However, he didn't depart without his final words, shouted with a cruel mockery and disdain for the eldest son of the dog demon who once bested him. "I pity you, Sesshomaru! What your father did was cruel! He was cruel, you hear!"

Paying Shishinki's words no heed, Sesshomaru tossed Tenseiga next to Inuyasha. No sooner did the blade ram into the ground did it emit a soft glow. Black wisps of energy oozed from the surface and drifted over to Tessaiga.

Amazed, Inuyasha stared as his blade absorbed all the tendrils of black circling around. His Tessaiga pulsed with more power than he could ever imagine until he distinctively knew that he was now in possession of a weapon that could utilize the full capacity of the Meido Zangetsuha. Studying the black surface of his blade that seemed to be housing small galaxies within, he relished his newfound power for a few minutes before his eyes shifted over to the impassive Sesshomaru.

"…Look, Sesshomaru. I—" he began but couldn't finish.

"Inuyasha, the technique belongs to you now. Do not imitate my strokes. You must wield it your own way." With extremely rare words that could be categorized as advice, Sesshomaru pulled out Tenseiga and returned it to its scabbard before walking over to where So'unga was.

"But I thought you want something as powerful as the Meido Zangetsuha. Why are you giving it to me now? Are you guilt-tripping me?" Unaccustomed to Sesshomaru's change in demeanor, however temporary it would be, Inuyasha asked as he slid Tessaiga back into its resting position. He quickly trailed after Sesshomaru while wiping away the sweat that had slicked his brows.

"I do not need a technique that is stolen. It is beneath me. Your sword specializes in ostentatious imitations, but I shall create my own technique that I can name my own." There was an aura of confidence in his declaration and with it, the intention of making his words a reality.

Under normal circumstances, Sesshomaru's customary fulsome nature and his haughtiness would've been a peeve for Inuyasha. Nevertheless, the younger brother merely allowed an equally confident grin to overtake his countenance. "Keh, I ain't picky like you. So I'll take what's offered. Just don't you go regretting it later."

At that, Sesshomaru scoffed in a manner that was left for interpretations, though only he would ever truly understand the significance behind that response.

Next time – The last part! Just when things appeared settled, the one in hiding launches a surprise attack. Sesshomaru and Kikyo find themselves fighting a completely unexpected opponent, one that even they struggle against when alone…