An Education by UnknownRandomness

This Action Is Irreversible

Prompt: Gamble - To bet on uncertain outcomes. 

Word Count: 300

"We can do this. I know we can. Do you think we can?"

Shippo looked up at the woman he considered to be his only family, tears shining in his eyes. He could see her determination and strength, but he could also see her worry and fear. Trembling, the small kitsune nodded an affirmative.

Kagome breathed a sigh of relief. If Shippo had refused, she wouldn't have pushed him, but then they would be stuck in this cave for who knew how long, until the others realized they were missing. Taking in a deep breath, the weaponless miko took a quick peek at the area outside of their small hiding place. It appeared to be empty; but looks could be deceiving.

Her spiritual ki couldn't pick up any youkai, for the first time in hours. It was now or never- who knew when they would get another chance like this? Shippo slipped his hand into hers, and she smiled in reassurance, but her eyes were tight; the cuts adorning his skin hadn't healed yet... Pushing those thoughts away, the young woman ran from the cavern with her kit right beside her.

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Sesshoumaru breathed in the scent of the miko's blood, the heady tang with a hint of metal. It called to his baser instincts, but he reigned in his enjoyment, remaining the silent sentinel to her companion's grief. They cried and screamed for her, the kit sat shaking by her broken body and his half-sibling was silent, face pale and ashen.

Apparently, the weary miko had taken a gamble in order to save the child. The inuyoukai felt a dawning respect for the dead woman: putting his safety before her own was admirable and worthy of remembrance. Her efforts had paid off, but with the cost of the ultimate price.