Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; this is only a fanfic.

Authors Notes: Hi everyone! I'm finally back from vacation and I'm ready to write. I was banned from the computer while I was away, but I had a notebook! (gives a sheepish grin)

This chapter is overly long as I had too much time to think. I changed a few things here, added a few more things there; it was horrible.

Many thanks to my reviewers: ezap3, sangofan89, peace, bestofbothworlds, katana sohma-demon girl and shippousangoffe. Sorry to keep you waiting.


Chapter 9: Ambition

The sun rose high over the mountains spreading its light over the Taijiya village and the valley below. Kohaku stood on the engawa of his rooms and watched a sunrise that was not due to lack of sleep. In fact, he had slept better last night than he had in long time.

Miroku's lengthy and in-depth oration the night before still had Kohaku blushing. The monk had covered all bases regarding women, their habits and methods of courting.

Heisuke was totally engrossed in the conversation and had listened attentively. The gardener had hung on to every word Miroku said and was not shy about asking questions. During the discussion, it dawned on Kohaku that his friend may have an interest in one of the village women.

Red-faced and unable to bear the monk's more intricate details on methods of seduction, Kohaku had left the two men and headed back to the main house. How long Miroku and Heisuke talked, he did not know. By the time his brother-in-law returned home, the taijiya was fast asleep.

Walking to the railing, Kohaku peered over the side. Looking in the direction of Hisa's cottage, he wondered if Rin was awake. He felt bad having left her somewhat abruptly last night. After seeing her to the shoji, the taijiya had meekly followed behind Miroku and Heisuke.

As he had prepared for bed, Kohaku had carried the vision of the young woman as she danced. Rin's soft hands and slender wrists had moved in slow synchronization and the memory of her mesmerizing form had lulled him into a comfortable sleep.

Would his friend attend the morning class as she had yesterday? Kohaku hoped that she would come. Since Rin's visit last season with Kikyou, the taijiya had thought of the girl often and he recalled the days that he had traveled with Sesshomaru and his companions those years ago.

After Kanna's death and his near escape from Naraku's minions, a battered Kohaku had returned to Kikyou. After attending to his wounds, he had informed the miko of Naraku's increased powers and they were forced to revise their plans. It was decided that she would seek out the demon forger - Totousai while he traveled to Onigumo's cave to await the arrival of their nemesis.

Kikyou had departed before sunrise and once Sesshomaru had returned; the taiyoukai had demanded to know her whereabouts and then followed promptly behind the priestess. Kohaku recalled their conversation back then…

"You will continue with your plans as instructed by the priestess, however, Jaken and Rin will accompany you to this cave of Onigumo."

Kohaku's eyes widened at the request, no… it was not a request, but an order. Kikyou was not here to dispute this; he doubted she knew about it and the taijiya spoke without thinking.

"No offense, Sesshomaru-sama, but they will only slow me down."

"Hmph!" the taiyoukai sniffed. "Nonsense… both is most resilient and used to expedient travel."

Kohaku swallowed hard and his mind searched for a suitable evasion. The taijiya kept his eyes at the level of Sesshomaru's throat to avoid those damned eyes and penetrating glare but pressed his point.

"There is a possibility that I may encounter Naraku again," he informed the taiyoukai. "In fact, I am sure of it. It is young Rin that I am concerned about; she should not be placed in danger."

"I agree," Sesshomaru smirked. "You will see that none befalls her while she is in your care."

This left Kohaku speechles; the dog demon was actually leaving Rin in his care and under such circumstances. Taking his silence as consent, Sesshomaru turned and walked away, followed closely by Ah-un.

In a last attempt to reason with the stubborn youkai, Kohaku opened his mouth to argue at the retreating figure. However, he felt small fingers close around his hand to stop him. Looking down on the little girl at his side, he found Rin beaming him a bright smile.

"It's all right, Kohaku-kun," she said with such trust. "Jaken-sama and I want to travel with you. I promise… we won't slow you down."

Returning to the present, even now he felt Rin's trust and, even now, Sesshomaru must still trust him to allow her to come here.

What Kohaku did not expect, was the strong feelings that arose each time Rin was around. She made him feel normal and that maybe… just maybe he could have a normal life. Everything that he had denied himself - close ties, friends and even intimacy; was it now possible?

He had never felt so comfortable with a woman before; not even his own sister. Rin was easy to talk with; she did not tell him what to think or feel, she just listened or gently probed until he found his own answers. Her dark eyes seemed to burn into his soul and he knew she saw far more than she revealed.

Kohaku's experience with women was limited, almost non-existent; however, Rin possessed similar traits to the only other women he had ever really known. Like Kagome, she was softhearted and feminine; however, she had Sango's inner strength and fierce loyalty. These qualities combined with the perception and practicality of Kikyou, made Rin an exceptional woman.

He was falling for her, Kohaku realized, but did he have the right to one such as her. No, he decided, he did not. He would not taint her purity with his past misdeeds.

Looking down on his hands, Kohaku recalled the blood on them; the blood from the innocents he had slaughtered. Anguished screams filled his head as he began reliving his dreams while awake.

His hands gripped the railing as he closed his eyes and arched back to suppress the vivid images assailing him. This had happened before, but never during the day. Gritting his teeth, he recalled Miroku had warned him about delving too much into the past, but…

"Kohaku-kun!"

That musical voice… Rin's angelic voice filled the air and the taijiya wondered if he had imagined it.

"Kohaku-kun!" The voice was more insistent.

Taking a deep breath, Kohaku opened his eyes. Looking down from the engawa, the taijiya met the warm brown eyes of the woman he had thought about all morning. She was standing beneath the engawa staring up at him.

"Rin-chan."

He did not realize the breathlessness of his voice as he said her name. However, the young woman standing below him did and it caused a pink to tinge her cheeks.

"I… know… that it is early," she stammered, effected by how his voice caressed her name, "… but I thought… well, I wanted to watch the matches with you this morning; if I may?"

"Yes!" Kohaku said excitedly. "Of course." As he smiled down on her, everything he thought a few minutes before was now forgotten. Rin's dark hair was pulled back with a blue ribbon that matched her yukata. Soft tendrils fell over her brow and around her face and caught the morning breeze.

"I… shall be right down," Kohaku announced and turned to head into his rooms. The taijiya stopped short to see his nephew standing directly behind him with a raised eyebrow.

"Shun'ei-san," Kohaku gasped. The child moved with such stealth that it was eerie. The boy had not made a sound as he entered his rooms and crossed to doorway of the engawa to stand behind him.

"Interesting," the boy said as he looked at his uncle. "Just the sound of Lady Rin's voice can easily erase the despair in your soul."

"I'm… not sure what you mean," Kohaku responded.

"Your feelings had begun to overwhelm you such that the intensity woke me," the boy began. "However, just one word from Lady Rin seems to comfort you."

"Yes… yes it does," Kohaku had to agree. "I don't know what it is Shun'ei-san, but… she makes me feel, well… she makes me…"

The taijiya stopped. His nephew's mannerism was so adult; one could almost forget that he was still a child. With his abilities, not much was shielded from the boy. Shun'ei had felt his misery and had come to comfort him as he had done on many occasions.

"No need to explain, Oji-sensei," the boy said and gave a Miroku-like smirk. "It is not unusual for two that have the same light to be drawn to each other."

"Same light?" Kohaku questioned with a puzzled look.

Yes," Shun'ei began. "You and Lady Rin have the light of a replaced soul. Yours burns brighter than hers, but it is still the same."

"I learned these things through my studies with Mushin-dono," the boy added as he anticipated the next question. "Humans die, but with some form of divine intervention, some are able to maintain or resurrect their human form. Some are temporary and some continue their semi-life until the end of their extended existence."

"At some point you must have died and then were returned to us from the netherworld. Don't look so surprised, Oji-sensei," Shun'ei said noticing his uncle's wide-eyed stare. "There are a lot of people like you and Lady Rin, there are a few right here in this village. The only difference is you are aware of your death, whereas that are not."

Kohaku was quiet as he studied his nephew. Miroku had informed him that Shun'ei was a spirit vessel. According to Mushin, the boy's powers were transcendent and not many knew he was somewhat of a medium.

"As usual, you are right, Shun'ei-san," the taijiya responded and bowed to the boy. "If it were not for Rin-chan awaiting me, I would like to discuss more of this with you."

Bowing in return, the young taijiya said, "Whenever you are ready, Oji-sensei."

xXxXx

The air grew heavy with suppressed energy and Kikyou sensed his arrival before he landed. In the process of gathering medicinal herbs, the ex-priestess rose slowly to her feet and turned to greet the unexpected visitor.

Totousai and the huge beast he rode upon, landed with a thud a few feet away from Kikyou and the fox child, Idzuna.

"My Lady," the demon forger greeted as he alighted from his transport. The youkai bowed to the Lady of the West, his old bones creaking as he struggled to right himself.

"This is a surprise, Totousai-dono," Kikyou began and waited for the dust to settle before she approached. "May I ask what brings you to the Westernlands?"

Although the demon forger smiled a toothless smile, he silently applauded her astuteness. The woman cut through the pleasantries and got right to the point. Through their dealings in the past, he assumed Kikyou knew this was no social call.

The old youkai thought about the priestess that had visited his abode seven years ago with Sesshomaru as her guide. During that time, he had aided in her resurrection by using Midoriko's sword. It was the beginning of her new life and the first step in fulfilling the destiny of the producing the new heir of the West.

The woman had already been through so much as the guardian of the Shikon no Tama and as Naraku's adversary. And… now, the news he brought would not be pleasing.

"Where is young Awasumaru?" Totousai asked, delaying the inevitable. "I would have thought he would be here to greet an old friend."

Kikyou assessed the youkai before her. It was not unusual for the demon forger to summons her, Awasumaru or Juun to visit, but Totousai rarely paid a visit to the Westernlands.

This was mainly to avoid Sesshomaru, her mate and the lord of the manor. Kikyou had been sure that the two would reconcile with each other, especially after Totousai had forged Awasumaru's uchigatana's. However, her mate was as stubborn as ever and the old youkai did not press him.

"The young master is training at the slayers village, Master Totousai!" Idzuna bowed as she answered for her mistress. The kitsune also knew Kikyou's thoughts and decided not to keep the elder waiting.

"Is that you, young Idzuna?" Totousai leaned forward and squinted at the fox child. "It looks like you have grown taller."

"Yes," the little kitsune giggled. "But… only two inches."

Flashing another toothless smile, Totousai turned back to Kikyou. "Your son is at the slayers village?" he questioned. "Sesshomaru is allowing his son to be trained by humans?"

"That should come as no surprise," Kikyou smirked. "Remember, Totousai-dono, Awasumaru is also my son."

"Hmm." the demon forger scratched his chin and looked at the woman with a new respect. "Impressive, my lady," he said and eyed her expectantly. "I would be interested in hearing how that came about."

Kikyou lifted an eyebrow and her aristocratic expression was reminiscent to Sesshomaru's. The woman met his look head on, but remained silent.

"Or… maybe not," the demon forger muttered and attempted a contrite smile. Even an old coot like him knew when he had overstepped his bounds.

"So… to what do we owe the honor of your presence, Totousai-dono?" the ex-priestess asked pointedly.

The smile left his face and he knew the time of tomfoolery was past. Kikyou's expression was void of emotion and she appeared relaxed; however, the demon forger noticed she had mentally braced herself.

The Lady of the West had every reason to prepare herself and Totousai was sure she would not be pleased by future events. What would cause her the most distress is that, once again, she would be the bearer of bad tidings.

With a sigh, the demon forger began. "I have come to discuss the Shikon no Tama," he began and waited a reaction. However, if she was affected by this news, Kikyou's face betrayed none of her feelings.

Good… Totousai thought. This meant that the luxurious life she led in the Westernlands had not softened her one bit. The woman was still strong and she would need to be in order to deal with what was to come.

As Kikyou remained silent, the demon forger sighed and continued. "I must commend you, my lady," Totousai began. "Over the years, you have successfully hidden the Shikon jewel. So well in fact, that no one would guess where it was let alone dare to approach it."

"However, the powers will not lie dormant for long and…" he paused before continuing, "… a new priestess has been chosen as keeper of the jewel."

The first sign of emotion registered on Kikyou's face. First… surprise and then a small smile appeared on her lips.

"Personally, I am glad to hear it," the ex-priestess stated. "Pray tell me, Totousai-dono, the name of the new priestess who will carry the burden of the Jewel of Four Souls?"

"Well…" the demon forger began and scratched his bald head. "I don't have a name just yet, but…"

As Totousai continued his tale, Kikyou's face remained impassive. However, inside her heart grew heavy and sadness overwhelmed her. The news was indeed disturbing, but Kikyou was not the only one affected by it. Idzuna sank slowly to the ground as she contemplated the outcome of what she was hearing.

Knowing the old youkai the way she did, the ex-priestess could only surmise he was not telling them everything. This was how it was with the elders; they only gave enough information that one could function and not much else.

"I am sorry, my lady," the demon forger said as he ended his tale. "My only compensation to you is that you play a minor role in what is to come."

"There is no need to soften the blow, Totousai-dono," Kikyou stated impassively. "Either way, I will be considered the debauched messenger."

"That is true," the old youkai sighed. "It is good that Awasumaru is now training at the slayers village. Although it was not planned, it was wise, my lady. The boy can lend his strength to the taijiyas. After all, he does have a vested interest in all this."

Kikyou did not respond nor did she agree with Totousai, but once the path was chosen there was no turning back. There was no way to change what was about to happen; therefore, she could only prepare the others for the inevitable.

xXxXx

Rin sat beneath the same tree from the day before and watched the end of the morning class. She was somewhat confused, as Kohaku had said that he planned to pair the taijiya twins against her brothers. However, out of the entire class Shun'ei, Suiren, Awasumaru and Juun were the only ones who did not spar.

Seeing Sango approach, Rin rose hurriedly to her feet. The female taijiya stopped briefly in front of her and muttered, "Come with me."

Although she was smaller and wearing a yukata, Rin had no trouble keeping up with Sango's long strides encased in skintight leggings. It was no different than following behind Sesshomaru's steady gait. The taijiya's back was ramrod straight and her high ponytail swung back and forth as she moved.

Rin wanted to inquire about the children not sparring, but it was clear from Sango's body language that she was not the person to ask. Therefore, she followed silently behind Kohaku's sister and noticed they were heading outside of the village.

The two continued through the forest until they came to a large open field. Standing on the other side was Kohaku, Shippo, the monk, the twins, her little brothers and the youkai cat… Kirara.

As soon as she set eyes on Kohaku, Rin's excitement returned. She increased her pace and moved around Sango to reach the man waiting for her. Walking right up to Kohaku, it seemed so natural that they reached for each other and clasped their hands together.

"What… what happened to your plan?" Rin whispered.

"A few changes," he whispered back, staring into her dark eyes.

So engrossed in each other, Rin and Kohaku were unaware of Sango's frown, Shippo's smile and the wide-eyed stares from the children and Kirara. A discreet cough from Miroku reminded the two young people that they were not alone. Both blushed slightly, but Kohaku did not let go of her hand as he turned to the two children walking across the field.

The boy and the taller of the two had a tousled mop of fair-hair, bronzed skin and wore a tunic made fur. The girl was petite in stature, reaching only the level of her companions shoulder. She had hazel eyes and her reddish-blond chin-length hair was worn loose and flowed in the afternoon breeze.

Suiren gasped, Shun'ei moaned and Awasumaru cried out as he recognized one of the individuals.

"Kai-san!" the hanyou said in surprise and ran forward to greet the wolf demon he had met at the council last spring.

"Awasumaru-san… is that you?" the wolf demon asked. "It is good to see you again. I did not know you were a student here."

"I just started," the half demon said. "Are you a student here too?"

"So… you two know each other," Kohaku interrupted. The taijiya moved forward, pulling Rin along with him. "That is good, because you will be facing each other in battle."

"Huh?" Awasumaru turned to his sensei, sister and then back to the young wolf demon. Kai looked as meek as he had that day at the council.

"Kai was sent to us from Kouga-san, the leader of the white and brown wolf tribes," Kohaku informed him. "He and Kou are two of my advanced students." The taijiya pointed to the quiet red haired girl standing next to the wolf demon. "I asked that they come spar with you and the others today."

Awasumaru looked Kai over once again and then turned to the girl next to him. Neither looked to be fighters, but his father had always told him to never underestimate an opponent.

xXxXx

"Shun'ei-san?"

The young taijiya turned to the blind child standing next to him. "What do you know about these students?" Juun asked.

"They are two of our top students and both full-fledged youkai," Shun'ei said. "Kai is very strong. One of his kicks or punches can shatter a boulder. He lacks the speed of his mentor, Kouga-sama, but he is agile." Turning to the petite demon girl, he continued. "Now Kou is swift, agile and has the ability to create flames. She is not an aggressive fighter, but she doesn't need to be. She one of our best strategist."

"Is she as fast as Suiren-chan?" Juun asked.

"I believe they are equal," Shun'ei said. "Although Kou has more control and is more motivated than my sister."

"Any idea why our sensei would have us spar with them rather than the other students?"

"Awasumaru wants to advance; is that not right?" the young taijiya asked.

"Yes," Juun said.

"Well this is his chance… and yours too, but Oji-sensei won't make it easy for you. You will have to earn this."

"Tell me something, Shun'ei-san?" Juun asked. "I find it hard to believe that you are still in the lower classes. You practice very hard and I can tell you are one of the top students. You should have advanced already."

The taijiya sighed and looked towards his sister, who was focused on the conversation between Kohaku and Awasumaru. Suiren held Kirara in her arms and absently stroked the youkai cat as she listened to their uncle.

"I cannot leave Suiren behind," Shun'ei said. Of all the emotions transmitted, his twin's affected him the most. He could not bear to see his sister unhappy, it would drive him to the brink of madness. Through all his teachings with Mushin and his father, they had yet to find a way to shut down his empathic connection to those emotions. "My sister would be devastated," he said sadly.

Juun did not respond.

xXxXx

Sango stood perfectly still and fumed inwardly as her husband's cursed hand caressed her backside. She should have known there was an ulterior motive in convincing her to stand at the rear of the group.

"Cut it out!" she snapped through clenched teeth, keeping her voice low.

"Sorry, dear," the monk said, grinning blissfully. "But… you did not wait up for me last night."

"And… whose fault was that?" Sango said pointedly. "After all, it was you who came in late."

"Aw… come on, Sango-chan," Miroku whined like a petulant child. "I explained that already. Heisuke and Kohaku needed my expert advice."

"Advice?" The taijiya turned to face her husband. Her quick movement caused his hand to fall from her anatomy and she smirked at his deprived look. "What kind of advice?" she asked slyly.

"I'm afraid I cannot divulge that information," Miroku said smugly. "It is a private matter."

Sango's eyes narrowed and the monk grinned sheepishly. "Hmph!" she sniffed and turned back to the matter at hand. Sensing her husband's wandering hand coming near, she shifted the Hiraikotsu to cover her rear. Hearing the thud of the weapon connecting with the monk's hand, the taijiya was rewarded his stifled grunt of pain.

"I hope Kohaku knows what he's doing," Sango said more to herself. "Shun'ei will be okay, but I'm not sure about Suiren."

Rubbing his sore hand, Miroku came to stand next to his wife. "I have to admit that this last minute change came as a surprise, but it may be the type of challenge that Shun'ei needs and it may motivate Suiren," the monk said. "We shall just have to trust Kohaku's judgment."

xXxXx

"Allow me to explain why we are here," Kohaku spoke to his students and watched as they gathered around him. "Suiren, Shun'ei, Awasumaru and Juun; all of you want to advance to the next level of training. In order to achieve that goal, you must first defeat Kai and Kou," he continued. "The matches will begin with hand-to-hand combat; if that results in a stalemate, we will then switch to weapons."

"Awasumaru… you and Shun'ei will fight Kai. Suiren… you and Juun will go against Kou," the children were informed. "You will fight as a team; if you win, both you and your partner will advance to the next level of training."

"Two against one, Kohaku-sensei?" Shippo murmured humorously. The taijiya had filled him in on his plan during the morning class. "I don't know," the kitsune continued. "It doesn't seem fair."

"Don't worry, Shippo-chan, it's fair enough." Kohaku smiled at his accomplice and then turned back to his students. "Now… does everyone understand?" He looked to each individual. Everyone was silent, except Suiren who mumbled under her breath.

"I'm sorry Suire-chan," her uncle asked. "Did you say something?"

"Why can't I fight with Shun'ei… or Awasu-san?" The little girl stamped her foot in frustration. "They're the strongest, but you put them together," she whined. "How is that fair?"

"But… Suiren-chan…" Awasumaru began.

"What!?" Rin bristled next to Kohaku. "I'll have you know…" she started, but the taijiya's raised hand interrupted both brother and sister.

Before he approached his niece, Kohaku gave Rin's hand a squeeze to calm her. Kneeling in front of the child, he looked into her large blue eyes and spoke quietly.

"Strength comes in many forms, Suire-chan; that is something you have yet to learn," he said. Kirara meowed in agreement and nuzzled under the child's chin before hopping to the ground and heading towards Shippo. "Trust me, little one, and have some faith in your partner," Kohaku implored.

The child lowered her head, but shot a glowering glare at the blind boy a few feet away. He was used to fighting with Awasumaru, that is the only way he could have beat him the other day, Suiren thought. Oh… why was she stuck with him as a partner? She would have had a better chance of winning with her brother or the hanyou.

xXxXx

Juun walked in the wake of Suiren and Kou's footsteps, following the girls onto the open field. The blind child could hear the others taking position on the opposite side and he wondered about his partner.

Suiren was a strange girl. Although she was loudmouthed, annoying and appeared angry most of the time, he did not feel that she was a bad person. If she were, he wouldn't have had to struggle with his decision.

The girl taijiya was the apple of her father's eye and although he pampered her on occasion, she was not spoiled. Her mother, Sango-sama, was clearly the disciplinarian of the two. The little girl might be able to charm her father, but her mother was a harder task.

Shun'ei was totally devoted to his twin and that was understandable. Also… now he knew there was a deeper connection between the siblings. Suiren's failure today would rest heavily on her brother.

After only one day and an argument, Awasumaru and the girl taijiya had become fast friends. Suiren's courage and fighting spirit had won his little brother over, so much that he had come and asked him to aid in improving her skills.

But… Suiren did not want his help and saw him only as a handicap. No matter what the girl thought about him, if he was able, Junn planned to help her make it through the first stage. After that, she was on her own. He would do it for his little brother, Awasumaru and for his new friend, Shun'ei.

xXxXx

"Are you ready?"

Kohaku stood between the two groups, raised his hand and watched each child take up a stance. As soon as his arm came down the match would begin. Although two separate matches, he had decided that they should all fight at the same time. He wanted to see which sibling would stay focused with the other engaged in battle.

"Go!" His hand slashed down and Kohaku stepped back. Feeling an arm slid through his, he looked down to find Rin had sidled next to him. He saw the concern in her brown gaze and smiled to reassure her. The young woman returned his smile and they both turned back to the field.

"Well, well," Miroku whispered in his wife's ear, as he leaned over her shoulder. "Don't they look cozy together."

The elbow aimed at his ribcage never connected. Sango turned to find her husband had retreated a few paces behind her and was wearing his 'I-know-something-you-don't' look. Turning back to the young couple, the taijiya had to admit that the monk was right… the two looked a bit too cozy.

Kohaku's head was tilted to the side, leaning down to hear what Rin was saying. With their arms locked together, they talked animatedly and Sango could tell that her brother was explaining his strategy.

What shocked the female taijiya was seeing her little brother's hand slowly creep around Rin's shoulder and pull the girl in front of him. Kohaku continued to talk, as he pointed and used his hands to demonstrate his plan. So engrossed with the two, Sango forgot there was a match going on until she felt the ground shake.

xXxXx

"This is no game, Awasu-san!" Shun'ei yelled to his partner. The hanyou was fooling around. He was taunting Kai and had barely missed the wolf's ultimate attack… the 'Tetsu Tekken'

"Watch out!" the taijiya called out.

Awasumaru sprung from the ground just as Kai drove his powerful fist into it. Hovering in the air, he noticed the wolf demon had definitely put a crack in the soil. Looking back over to his opponent, the hanyou saw the wolf had suddenly disappeared.

"Hey! Where did…" Awsumaru began, but was cut short as Kai appeared suddenly. The wolf's legs whipped around, aiming a roundhouse kick to his opponents midsection. It was too late to move and the half demon put up his hand to block the attack.

Bracing himself for a hit, Awasumaru saw Shun'ei come from behind and deliver a flying kick to Kai's side. The impact sent the wolf careening to ground, but with a couple of back handsprings, he recovered quickly and landed on his feet.

The taijiya and the hanyou landed next to each other in the grass. "Idiot!" Shun'ei snapped at Awasumaru. "Just one blow from Kai's fist and even you will be laid up for days!"

"Don't be mad, Shun'ei-san," the hanyou laughed. It was about time the taijiya acted like a kid. He had even resorted to name-calling. "I just wanted to see what he could do."

"Test him on your own time," the taijiya retorted. "Right now, we've got to take him out."

"Geez… lighten up," Awasumaru said. "You're taking this way too serious. Besides… how are you going to learn your opponents strengths and weaknesses, if you don't mess with their heads."

"I already know all I need to about Kai-san." Shun'ei stood as the wolf headed towards them for the next attack. "Look, Awasu-san," the taijiya began and turned to his partner. "My uncle is expecting something from us and he is not about to let up until we give him what he wants." Turning back to face their opponent, Shun'ei said, "We need to end this now, Awasumaru… the sooner the better."

xXxXx

Suiren felt like she was moving fast, but not going anywhere. Kou's movements were smooth, accurate and she blocked every one of her attacks. The female taijiya was already frustrated and growing more irritated by the minute. She knew she was just as fast and definitely stronger, so… why wasn't she winning?

Breathing heavily, Suiren surveyed the girl in front of her and then her gaze moved to her partner. Juun was totally useless. The few times that he had engaged with Kou, he was not aggressive. It was more like they were merely slapping their hands together.

She would just have to do this by herself, Suiren decided. Oji-sensei may have given her the weaker partner, but she would show him. She could beat this girl on her own and she would advance to the next class.

"You have to relax," a voice said. "You will never beat her that way."

Suiren turned to see her would-be partner standing slightly behind her.

"Oh.. shut up!" she snapped. "What do you know? You can't even win against her, so why should I listen to you?"

"I wasn't trying," Juun said impatiently. "I was only testing her."

"Shut up!" Suiren turned on the blind boy. "I don't want to hear it… I'll do it myself. I don't want your help… I don't need it!" With that said, she turned and charged her opponent.

Foolish girl, Juun thought as he heard the two girls engage in battle. Suiren's attacks were more erratic than before and he knew she was tiring. Kou, however, as a full demon had plenty of energy and he sensed her movements had developed a pattern. Moving forward, Juun listened intensely, knowing that at any moment, the young demon would strike.

xXxXx

Kai was an intimidating figure as he barreled down on the two junior students. His fair hair blew back from his face and his dark eyes flashed as he kept both boys in his vision.

Awasumaru and Shun'ei stood perfectly still. The two boys had formulated a strategy and waited for the perfect time to execute their plan.

Checking the hanyou from the corner of his eye, the taijiya felt his partner's anxiousness. Awasumaru, like Suiren, was not one for patience. The boy would much prefer to meet head on with his opponent; however, considering Kai's abilities, that would be reckless.

"Wait!" Shun'ei instructed as he noticed the slightest movement from his comrade. "Not yet." Awasumaru stilled immediately and both waited until Kai drew back his arm to throw a punch.

In a flash, Shun'ei attacked low. From a crouch position he swung out one leg, intending to sweep the wolf from his feet. However, Kai read the attack and jumped high to avoid the take down.

Shun'ei's ending move was well known throughout the village. Everyone knew the boy liked to end his matches as quickly as possible. Although, they all knew he would use it, very few could see it coming or were able to avoid it.

Levitating in the air, Kai suddenly remembered Awasumaru. Before he could turn to locate the hanyou, he felt a crushing blow between his shoulder blades that sent him spiraling towards the ground. As he fell, he noticed the half demon above him. The hanyou was smiling with both hands clenched together to form a hammer fist.

Focusing on trying to break his fall, he did not see Shun'ei appear and deliver the finishing blow. The taijiya jumped up as the wolf came down and drove his shoulder into Kai's midsection. The maneuver knocked his opponent back and sent him flying across the field.

The wolf landed heavily on his back and rolled repeatedly in the high grass. Kai tried to rise to his knees, but clutched his side and fell faced down in the dirt.

xXxXx

"They won!" Rin breathed and turned to Kohaku. "Your plan worked!" Her eyes shone with admiration. "Shun'ei is really good! He reminds me a lot of you," she said shyly.

"Really? I think he is more focused than I was at that age," Kohaku said as he looked at his nephew. "He's definitely more courageous." The teacher tried to keep the pride from his voice. He and Rin watched as Shippo and Kirara headed to the field to check on the injured.

"Awasumaru is certainly enjoying himself," Kohaku said to change the subject. "But… I don't think we'll get a chance to see his sword technique today. I think Kai may be out for the count."

Sango and Miroku stood side by side and were pleased with their son's results.

"I think I see now what Kohaku was planning," the monk said to his wife. "Shun'ei and Awasumaru have different personalities, one impatient and the other cautious. Working together, each had to accept the other's ability and use it to their advantage as a team."

"It was brilliant," said Sango. "It may have worked for our son and Awasumaru, but I don't know about those two." The taijiya pointed to their daughter, Suiren, and her partner, Juun.

As all four adults turned to the squabbling young taijiya and her passive teammate, each saw the ending from a different perspective.

Sango - expected the worst and thought, yet again, her child's stubbornness would keep her from advancing. Kohaku – remained hopeful as he relied on his plan and his instincts.

Miroku – was neutral as he watched the two children. Unlike Shun'ei and his partner, they may not have a plan, but the monk had a feeling something was about to happen.

Rin - had been offended by Suiren's comments earlier. Watching the match progress, she could tell Juun had just about reached the limits of his admirable patience. Once that happened, Rin thought smugly, the little girl would see just how strong a partner she had.

xXxXx

The girl taijiya was truly impressive, thought Kou. It was obvious Suiren was tired, but she still attacked in magnificent fury. For a human, her speed was incredible and her anarchistic style of fighting kept her on her toes. Although sympathetic to her opponent's desire to win, she would not make it easy for her… it would be an injustice to the girl's uncle and their sensei.

After blocking Suiren's punch, the fire demon retreated. Standing across from the taijiya, Kou looked towards the blind boy standing in the background. The one called Juun was stronger than he revealed. The few times that he had attacked were attempts to draw her out her abilities.

She would have to keep her eye on him, Kou thought. Since the two junior students were not working as a team, she would first stop the girl and then she would focus her energies on the blind boy.

"Sorry, Suiren-chan," Kou whispered. "Maybe next time."

Standing tall, the fire demon raised her hands above her head and slowly brought them down in front of her. Spreading her arms wide with her palms up, Kou's hands burst into flames.

Suiren's ferocious expression turned to shock as her opponent's fingers ignited. She had no idea the girl had fire capabilities. What was she supposed to do? How could she possibly defeat Kou now that she could not get close to her without being burned?

As usual, Suiren's anger overruled her commonsense. With fierce growl, the taijiya planted her feet firmly in an attack stance. Her eyes never left her opponent as Kou shot from the ground, into the air and then spiraled towards her in a ball of flames.

xXxXx

"Kohaku!"

Sango gasped and released the strap on the Hiraikotsu. She saw her brother stiffen, but his eyes remained focused on the match and he made no move to stop it.

With a snarl, Sango moved forward to intercept the attack on her daughter. However, a firm hand on her waist swung her around and she turned to face the angry blue eyes of her husband.

"Stand down, Sango-chan!" the monk snapped. Although he used the endearment to soften the effect, the taijiya knew he meant business.

"This is your brother… remember," he said in low tones. "Do you not trust him?"

"But…" Sango began.

"Do you trust him?" Miroku insisted.

"Yes," his wife whispered.

"Then we wait," the monk said, but removed the Hiraikotsu from her grasp. Miroku then put an arm around her shoulder and pulled her close.

With a sigh, Sango turned back to the field. Glancing over to Kohaku, she noticed he had also braced himself.

xXxXx

She was so close that Suiren could feel the heat from Kou's fingertips. Whichever way she moved she would get burned; therefore, she might as well meet it head on. Just as she was about to move, she caught movement from her peripheral vision.

Juun appeared from above her rotating like a spinning top as he headed towards Kou. The boy executed a perfect 'crescent moon kick'. Although he did not connect, the force of the swing knocked the fire demon away from her intended target.

Somersaulting backwards, Kou put distance between her and the unexpected whirlwind. Looking up, she watched as Juun spun slowly down to the ground in front of his partner. So… she was right; he was hiding some sort of power.

"Are you hurt?" Juun asked, none to gently, of the girl standing behind him.

"Ah… no," Suiren said in wonder. "I'm… I'm all right."

Kami… he was fast and that kick was unbelievable. Juun made the movement look effortless and he actually floated back to earth as if he rode his own personal cloud. Cocking her head to the side, Suiren observed her partner seriously for the first time.

"Stay here and rest a minute," Junn ordered and moved to confront Kou.

"Oh… no you don't!" Suiren yelled and grabbed the sleeve of his keso. The girl's gratitude was short-lived as she turned him around to face her. "I don't need you to fight for me and can do this myself!"

"Fine," Juun sniffed and removed her hand from his arm. "You can have another go at her after I extinguish her flames. After all, a weakling like me has to do his part; right," he said sarcastically.

Was he aware that his dark eyes glittered when he was angry, Suiren wondered? His unfocused gaze seemed to pierce her soul and for the first time she regretted the comments made earlier. She wanted to tell him that she was sorry, but could not force the words past the lump in her throat.

"How… are you going to do that?" she finally managed instead.

"Don't worry about that," Juun said. The shift in the winds and the heat it carried informed the boy that Kou was on the move again. Turning in the direction of his opponent, he pushed Suiren behind him. "Just rest and be ready when it's your turn," he informed the taijiya.

Juun seemed to disappear. Suiren felt the air whip around and send her ponytails flying in the winds he left in his wake. Suddenly, she spotted him as he rushed towards his… or rather, their opponent.

From the air, Kou watched as Juun sped through the high grass. Igniting her hands, she created a fireball. Drawing her arm back, she made to pitch it in his direction. Before she could release the heated sphere, a gust of wind swooshed by and doused the flame.

Surprise held Kou still as she hovered in the air. Suddenly, the boy shot from ground. With his hands moving in circular motions, the fire demon did not realize until too late what he was about.

Pressing his palms forward, Juun called upon the winds. The air exploded from his small frame and slammed into Kou, knocking her back to the ground. In an instant, he was after her. His punches never landed… his kicks never connected, but that was not his intention. The attack was designed to tire his opponent. He was attempting to drain enough of her energy to match Suiren's.

However, Juun soon discovered that would not be enough. His wind attacks, no matter how strong, only doused Kou's flames temporarily. Besides that, the girl showed no signs of tiring. By using the combined power of the winds and increasing his speed at the same time, the blind child found that he had overexerted himself. At this rate, neither he nor Suiren would defeat this girl.

Feeling the heat from her palm, Juun barely evaded a blow by blocking with his forearm and then sending a gust of wind through her flame. Pushing back, he flipped backwards in retreat. He needed time to revise his strategy and take a moment to rest. As he floated back to the ground, the boy called out to his partner.

xXxXx

As Kou's body rocketed towards his daughter, Miroku's heart thumped wildly in his chest. This was the same feeling he experienced each time Sango went into battle, but this was the life of the taijiya's and he was now part of the family.

For the past eight years, the monk had watched Kohaku train students. His brother-in-law was always fair and never pushed a child beyond their capabilities. However, if their sensei thought his student had more to offer, he would take them to their limit.

Was that the case now? Did Kohaku have that much faith in Juun… or was it Suiren? After all, it was Mushin who had told him that his daughter's spiritual powers would one day exceed his own and that of his father.

Although he had bade his wife to wait, Miroku kept waiting for that certain something to happen and finally… it did.

Juun appeared from nowhere. The boy spun high in the air and his spinning kick sent the fire demon flying and Suiren was safe… for the moment.

Now that his heart rate reduced to a steady pulse, the monk was able to return to his nonchalant guise.

"Looks like your instincts paid off, Kohaku-sensei," Miroku stated humorously. "I must say, it appears you've awakened a sleeping dragon."

Kohaku agreed with his brother-in-law, but he did not respond. He was too busy watching Juun's attacks on Kou. The boy was pure poetry in motion. He executed each form to perfection and his arm and leg extensions exceeded those of any student he had ever trained.

"Remarkable," Sango whispered, also thankful for Juun's intervention. "Watching him fight, no one would ever believe he was without sight. He is also quite the gentleman… he does not like to hit girls."

"That's a promise Juun made to his grandmother, Natsumi," Rin said quietly and thought about the old woman that had befriended Kikyou.

"As a warrior, he may not be able to keep that promise, Rin-chan." Kohaku looked down on the woman at his side. "Besides… he and Suiren have not defeated Kou yet."

"We'll see." Rin returned a confident smile.

"There's no need to worry about them, sensei!"

Turning to the sound of Awasumaru's voice, the four adults watched as he and Shun'ei approached. The two boys supported a groggy, but uninjured Kai as he walked between them. Shippo grinned from ear to ear and Kirara's tails swished happily, as they walked silently behind the boys.

"One thing I know about Junn-san," the hanyou said as he turned to watch his brother and Suiren. "If there is time to form a plan, he will win. You can bet on it."

xXxXx

As soon as Juun landed, even before he called out to her, Suiren began making her way towards her partner. As she reached him, the boy was down on one knee trying to get a second wind.

The girl was silent as she kneeled beside him. Instead rambling on and asking questions as she normally would, she waited for him to speak.

Juun was as good as Awasumaru said he was. It was clear her impaired partner was no weakling. For someone with a handicap, he was very independent and resilient. Raising her head, Suiren looked across the field at their opponent.

Kou was resting just as they were, but soon she would be ready to finish the battle. Juun had handled her much better than she had. His wind attacks had done more damage than her pathetic kicks and punches. With a sigh, she rocked back on her heels and decided that if anyone was useless here, it was she.

"If that's a sign of defeat," Juun said, hearing her sigh. "I swear… I will challenge you to a one on one duel."

"What!" Suiren screeched.

"You ready to give up?"

"No… I'm not!" she yelled and saw the boy wince. She watched as he flipped his ebony hair back from his face, stuck his little finger in his ear and wiggled.

"Gosh… you're a loud one," he muttered.

"Shut up!" the taijiya snapped, offended. With another loud sigh, she lowered her head. "I'd never give up… I can't!"

"I can't bear to see the look in my mother's eyes if I fail again," Suiren said sadly. "My father will smile, pet my head and say, "you'll pass next time". Oji-sensei will just look at me and say 'try harder' and Shun'ei…" she sighed again and continued. "He always supports me, but… I always let him down. He won't advance because he's waiting for me. I'm holding him back, but I…"

"Stop complaining," Juun interrupted. He felt her bristle next to him and continued before she took his head off. "You can sit here and make all the excuses you want, but that's not going to get you to the next level. You say that you're tired of disappointing everyone and them pitying you, then stop whining and do something about it!"

"I'm trying!" she shouted.

"Don't try… just do it!" Juun yelled back, surprising the girl. Rising to his feet, the boy felt Kou's heat generate from the other side of the field. "We've got one chance to win and I'm going to need your help."

"My… my help?" Suiren looked surprised, but stood also. Did he really need her help or was he just saying that, she wondered? It certainly seemed that he could handle Kou on his own.

"Don't sound so surprised," the blind child smiled. "After all, we are partners. I can't possibly win without you."

Suiren returned the smile. Knowing that he could not see it, she tried portraying it through her voice. "That's right, you can't!" she said with excitement. "What do we have to do?"

"Climb on my back," Juun instructed and winced as she squawked again.

"What!!!"

"No time to explain," the boy said as the winds signaled Kou approaching at a rapid pace. "I need you to be my eyes, Suiren-san and an extra set of hands."

xXxXx

"Are they arguing again?" Sango asked in exasperation. "I'm surprised; Juun-san seems so level-headed. I can't imagine him getting riled so easily."

"Easily!" Rin fumed inwardly. Suiren had been insulting her brother all morning, she thought defensively. It was about time Juun decided to give the girl some of her own back. The hand on her shoulder gave a gentle squeeze and Rin relaxed under the comforting gesture, understanding Kohaku's request to remain calm.

"It's true, Sango-sama, that Juun-san does not let things bother him much," Awasumaru informed the taijiya. "But… when he gets mad, he can really get under your skin. You see… he has this way of making you see the truth about yourself," the boy continued. "It's pretty annoying, but it works. I've have yet to win an argument with him."

"So… along with his other skills, Juun-san is a good negotiator," Shun'ei said. "I wonder if he will be able to get Suiren to cooperate."

"Well… how about that," Miroku said in awe and pointed to the field where Suiren was gingerly climbing onto her partner's back. "I guess miracles never cease."

xXxXx

Her ponytails were wrapped tight to keep them out of the way. With her arms tight across his neck and her legs wrapped around his waist, Suiren signaled she was ready.

"Not so tight," Juun coughed and removed her forearm from his throat.

"Oh… sorry," she grimaced. Looking out across the field, she saw Kou heading their way. "Here she comes!" Suiren yelled.

There was no need to tell him that, Juun knew she was near. "Hold on!" he instructed, leaped into the air and barely evaded a direct hit from Kou's fireball.

"She's coming after us!" Suiren saw the fire demon shoot from the ground and follow them into the sky. "What now?"

Levitating above ground, Juun felt the heat of his attacker and turned to face her. "Do exactly as I tell you," he whispered to Suiren and felt her nod a yes. "Relax your fist and use your hands like a blade."

"A blade?"

"Yes… using your fists slows your attack. If you hold your hands in this position…" Juun held up his hand to demonstrate, "… you will find that your speed increases."

"We attack as one," he said. "I'll keep her from using her flames and you do the rest."

Looking down at the ground, Suiren tightened her grip.

"I won't let you fall, Suiren-san," Juun said quietly. "I give you my word."

Her relief was evident and he felt her body relax. "Come on, Juun-san," she said aggressively. The old Suiren was back and he smiled at her enthusiasm. "We've got a fight to win!"

Looking over at her opponents, Kou and wondered about their tactic. The two were now a single target, which made it easier for her. If they spent less time arguing, they would have a better strategy.

It did not matter, the fire demon thought, they were going to lose. The skirmish with the blind boy had taken a lot out of her, but she had a lot more energy left than they did. Creating flames in both palms, she moved in to attack.

"Two fireballs coming!" Suiren called.

Instead of avoiding them, Juun charge ahead. Just as they felt the heat from the spheres, the boy used the winds to extinguish the flames. Since he was carrying the girl, Kou had expected them to dodge her attack; however, she was surprised when they appeared directly in front of her.

Both Suiren and Juun assailed upon her in a flurry of punches. It was hard enough fighting them one on one, but now it was nearly impossible. She now had four hands to block and counter coming down on her all at once. Both her opponents were fast and Suiren had become even faster as she was no longer using her fist. The girl now fought with the same hand style as her partner.

Juun used his knees to block and restrain her kicks. Advancing their frontal attack, the blind child and the taijiya kept Kou on defense. Each time she tried to create a fireball, the boy would use his control of the winds to douse the flames.

Unable to use that form of attack, Kou decided on a different strategy. It was obvious that Juun was the only one trained in the 'open hand' fighting technique. Although Suiren had caught on quickly, she was still the novice.

Forming her hands in snake fashion, Kou blocked an incoming blow from Suiren and then followed through with a sharp, rapid strike to the girl's wrist.

His partner's hiss of pain alerted Juun that she had been hit. "Suiren-san!" he called out.

"Arrgggh!" Suiren snarled. "Why that little…" The girl stopped and actually growled, but Juun could feel her ire rising.

Before he could ask if she had been hurt, he felt one of her legs fall from his waist. He felt Suiren's arms tighten around his neck as she leaned forward. Using him as leverage, the girl gave a battle cry, lifted one leg high and executed an axe kick. The weight of her leg came crashing down and pile-drove deep into Kou's shoulder. With a muffled cry, the fire demon toppled to the ground.

"That hurt," Suiren croaked.

Smiling to himself, Juun called the winds to cushion the demon's fall. Once Kou reached the ground, he and Suiren began their descent. As they floated down, they noticed Awasumaru, Shun'ei and the wolf demon running out to the field.

As soon as they landed, Shun'ei snatched up his sister and engulfed her in a bear hug. Revitalized from her win, the girl taijiya joined in on the celebration. She had advanced to the next level and was clearly happy about it.

Juun sat in the grass and listened to the others congratulating him. Kohaku smiled knowingly, Suiren's parents thanked him heartily, but he was too tired to enjoy it. In truth, he was exhausted. By battling Kou, he had used his combined strengths and also carried the weight of his partner; the boy had reached his limits a while ago.

"Are you all right?"

Turning to the sound of Rin's voice, Juun mustered a smile as he felt her standing over him. She already knew his weaknesses; therefore, he could be honest.

"No." he said simply.

"Come on," Rin said and bent down to help her brother. "Let's get you somewhere nice and quiet, where you can rest uninterrupted."

"I'll take care of him, Rin-chan," Miroku offered and nodded in over in Sango's direction. His wife was checking on Kou who, other than a sore shoulder, appeared to be well. "Sango and I will see to it that he gets some rest. Besides… I think Kohaku had made plans for the two of you." the monk informed Rin and sent her a sassy wink.

"Oh…" the woman blushed as she looked over at the taijiya ruffling his niece's hair. Looking back at Juun's listless figure, she decided she should be with him and opened her mouth to decline the invitation.

"Go," Juun said tiredly. "You know me," he attempted to laugh. "I will probably sleep until tomorrow morning."

"I don't know… are you sure, Juun-san… Houshi-sama?"

"We're sure," Miroku answered for them both as he helped her little brother to his feet. "Now go…" the monk waved her away. "Go and have some fun."

Rin watched as Miroku guided Juun to a waiting Kirara. Lifting the boy in front of him, the monk nudged the youkai cat with his knees and the three moved towards the main house.

Her foster brother had grown stronger and she was really impressed with the way he had handled Suiren. That was no surprise; after all, Juun was used to dealing with Awasumaru and he and the girl were alike in many ways.

Overlooking all the mean things the girl had said today, Juun had helped Suiren achieve her goal. What a selfless act from a benevolent child. As Sango had said earlier, Juun was truly a gentleman and Kikyou would really be proud.

xXxXx

In the Westernlands…

Sesshomaru landed gracefully at the entrance of the castle. As he approached the stairs, the servants slid open the double shoji's and bowed low as the taiyoukai glided through the entryway.

Although he enjoyed the quiet, Sesshomaru missed Awasumaru and Rin greeting him on his arrival. He would never admit that, of course, but he was sure that the children knew how he felt.

Looking up the staircase, he was surprised that Kikyou had not appeared at the top to welcome him home. Keying into his mate's aura, he detected her presence on the engawa of their chambers and he sensed her mood was melancholy.

"Sesshomaru-sama…" one of the servants approached.

Raising his hand to silence the youkai, he placed his hand on the hilt of his sword and continued up the stairs. Whatever was needed would have to wait. Heading towards the chamber that he shared with his human mate, Sesshomaru entered his rooms and turned in the direction of the engawa.

Kikyou stood at the balustrade looking up at the starlit sky. Her ebony locks shimmered in the moonlight and night's breeze blew the dark tendrils away from her face. Although the woman did not acknowledge him, she knew that he was there.

The mental link between Sesshomaru and his mate was strong… so strong that they could read each other's unguarded thoughts. However, whatever her reasons, Kikyou was blocking their connection.

Something was wrong, but they both knew he would never inquire. Whatever his mate wanted him to know, she would tell him willingly. This had been understood throughout their mating ritual. 'Her newly acquired life was her own and she would live it as she pleased'… that had been Kikyou's only request before consenting to be his mate.

The taiyoukai, confident in their bonding, had agreed to those terms. However, it was understood that under certain conditions he would interfere if he deemed it necessary. So far, there had never been a need. As Sesshomaru waited, he felt Kikyou take a cleansing breath.

Pushing back from the railing, the ex-priestess turned to her mate standing in the entryway. She sensed his curiosity, but his pride and their promise kept him from asking if anything was wrong.

It took every ounce of her will power to push the information from Totousai's visit to the back of her mind. It had taken her all afternoon to build up a mental wall.

If Sesshomaru knew the role she had to play in upcoming events, it could well be the first time that he would interfere and worse… he could forbid Awasumaru to continue his training at the slayers village. Kikyou recalled that had been a long hard battle with her mate, but it was a memorable victory for her.

"Welcome home, my lord." Kikyou moved towards her mate.

"This place is too quiet," Sesshomaru said unnecessarily.

Kikyou smiled. He would never say something like that outside the privacy of this room. It was his way of saying he missed the boys and Rin. It also gave her the opening she needed to discuss her plans.

"Really?" Kikyou lifted an eyebrow. "A few days ago you complained that it was too noisy," she said pointedly. "They will only be away a few more days, Sesshomaru, you should enjoy the quiet while it lasts."

"Hmph!" the taiyoukai sniffed, turned and moved into their room. Removing the swords from his side, he hung them on the mantelshelf.

"I was thinking to pay a visit to the slayers village tomorrow," Kikyou announced as she followed her mate inside and sat down of their futon.

Sesshomaru's hands stilled at her words. Turning slowly, his eyes narrowed as he looked down her. "Your reason?" he asked.

"Is it not obvious?"

"No… it is not," Sesshomaru stated. "As I recall, you claimed to have such faith in Kohaku's abilities. Has something occurred that has made you change your mind?"

"No." Kikyou said bluntly. "I stand by my decision to have our sons train with him."

Sesshomaru took a seat next to his mate on the futon and stared deep into her mahogany orbs. "Then why are you going?" he asked and awaited her answer.

Kikyou met his golden gaze unflinchingly and responded, "I want to go."

The taiyoukai held her gaze for the longest time. Kikyou could feel him trying to probe inside her mind, but her eyes never wavered and her mental barrier held strong. Suddenly, Sesshomaru slid close and the ex-priestess felt herself lowered gently to the futon.

"I shall allow you your secrecy for now, my lady." The taiyoukai's voice turned husky as he hovered above her. "However, I shall take your advice and enjoy the remainder of the quiet," he said, before his lips closed over the beating pulse at her throat.

With her fingers buried in his magnificent silver mane, Kikyou whispered. "That is most wise, my lord."

To be continued…