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

Authors Notes: Hi everyone! This chapter seems to just drag on, I'm still fighting my past/present issues in writing and I'm trying to condense my chapters. I'll admit I did not try very hard this time and for that I apologize. Overall, it's basically, okay. Enjoy and please review, I need the feedback.

Note: thoughts are in italics

SPOILER WARNING

Chapter 10: Choices and Dilemmas

The sun raises high over the mountains, its rays casting warmth on the lone figure traveling the road. Looking over, the priestess takes a moment to enjoy the view before moving on.

2 days to prepare

Solitariness is not and never has been Kikyou's choice, but the life appears to have chosen her. Fate has decided this woman will always be alone. Even in the afterlife, it appears to remain so.

Leaving the encampment before dawn, she already missed Kohaku's quiet companionship and Rin's enthusiastic chatter. While alive, she enjoyed surrounding herself with the village children. Their innocence was refreshing and their laughter contagious; spending time with them, playing with them and teaching them were one her few pleasures.

Kikyou's trek is slowed by the weight of the sword now strapped to her back. Remembering the details of Kanna's demise from Kohaku, she increases her pace.

"His presence appeared to be everywhere, Kikyou-sama, even in Kanna's mirror!"

This is disturbing news; it surely means Naraku's powers have strengthened again. The fact he is able to invade the dominion of Kanna's mirror, causes Kikyou concern. It is similar to having access to someone's most personal thoughts, a violation of one's mind. It is no wonder Kanna reacted in such a way, the intrusion must have besieged the young demon.

Altering her plans, Kikyou decides to leave Kohaku behind; the boy needs to rest after his ordeal. They will not meet again until Naraku's appearance. For now, she must go alone to seek the one who forges the swords, the demon – Totousai.

To locate him, she must first find Inuyasha. Although reluctant, she heads now to Kaede's village in hopes of reaching it by noon. Meeting with Inuyasha is always awkward, however, seeing Kaede again will be most uncomfortable, but it is all she can do.

Sensing a familiar aura, Kikyou goes completely still.

"Why is he here?"

Scanning the area in front of her, Kikyou sees nothing. She turns to look behind, again… nothing. Turning back, she walks into an unyielding wall.

Pushing away, she staggers under the weight of the sword, attempting to put distance between her and the being. A hand snakes out, steadying her. Slowly, the priestess raises her eyes to the cold glare of the taiyoukai.

"Why…" Kikyou begins, before interrupted.

"This, Sesshomaru, will take you to Totousai."

If he expects gratitude, Kikyou only gives a skeptical glance. The only way he can know of her destination, is to have overheard her discussion with Kohaku last night.

"Your manners are lacking, priestess," Sesshomaru's eyes narrow. "A thank you will be sufficient."

"A thank you?" Kikyou questions.

"Yes."

"Well… that depends," the priestess gives this some thought.

"On?"

"Your motive. What do you want Sesshomaru? "

Not answering, Sesshomaru simply stares down on her, his expression one of contempt. Kikyou stares back, imitating him perfectly.

"Quite astute… for a human," the taiyoukai murmurs, before turning away.

Kikyou notices the beast Au-un standing behind his master. The priestess mind works rapidly. With him carrying her, perhaps she can reach Totousai's by mid-day instead of Kaede's village. Besides, what of Kohaku and Rin, has he left them behind?

"Where are the children?" she asks.

"They're fine."

His blunt reply irritates her, but Kikyou will have to be content with that. She knows Sesshomaru will protect young Rin at any cost, she noticed that on Mt. Hakurei. Since he also includes Kohaku in his statement, it is safe to assume they are together.

Standing next to Au-un, the taiyoukai coolly awaits her answer. After weighing her options, the priestess is finally swayed.

"All right," Kikyou sighs, "however, before I agree I repeat my question. What do you want, Sesshomaru?"

In an imperial tone, "Why do you seek Totousai and what does it have to do with that sword?"

"Strike!" "Thrust!" "Parry!"

Since the age of six, I have demonstrated these exercises. Outside the dojo and wielding a borrowed wakazashi, I perform my daily formations. I must practice as I have much to protect.

For once, the future does not seem so bleak to me. Deep in my heart, I truly believe we will defeat Naraku and that my brother can survive.

Kohaku…

This is the first time I have been able to think of him without sorrow. Instead of his vacant stare - I see his hazel eyes full of warmth and mirth. Instead of the mute puppet - I hear his youthful inquisitive voice. He is no longer a stranger to me… no longer a lost soul, but a soul awaiting redemption. Between the monk and me, we plan to help him achieve that.

Houshi-sama…

Thinking of him, vivid memories from last night flood my senses and my movements become fluid with remembered passion. This morning, I woke from my bridal bed feeling delightfully content and reborn.

I glance back at the dojo; it appears my husband is still sleeping. We have been up late studying, analyzing and exploring… each other. These moments, my husband says, are my private lessons. I impatiently anticipate tonight and my next instruction.

Reserving that thought, I remembered my father. I believe he would approve of Houshi-sama; both highly intelligent and men of strong will. It would be easy to picture them discussing various subjects over a cup of sake.

I wonder what Kohaku will think of me… being married. I imagine exposing my shy little brother to my worldly husband and I have to laugh aloud. It might not be so bad; after all, the monk is good with Shippo.

"We will be together soon, Kohaku… very soon."

Watching her from this distance did nothing to cool my ardor. I have always known Sango possessed a passionate nature. One could tell by her strong beliefs and her fierce determination to protect others. However, nothing prepared me for the intensity of our lovemaking; her response was astounding.

My demon slayer was shy, yet curious; her innocent caresses awakened my most primal urges. At the end of each desirable interval, I found myself anxious to start the next. I felt like a novice again, awaiting my initiation.

Sometime during the night, that anxious feeling returned. Its ominous presence crushing me and I cursed its intrusion into my marriage bed. I could feel it slither up my spine and my body stiffened, trying to dispel the sensation.

Lying next to me, Sango must have sensed my discomfort. Still asleep, she turned to me, her small hand covering my heart. That simple gesture dispersed that awful feeling. It was remarkable how her touch comforted me.

I continue to watch her practice; her movements are light and jubilant. As her thoughts change, so do her steps. Her look turns to one of determination as her body moves concise and with confidence. Executing a slow turn, her body then starts to move sensuously; I can tell by this time we are sharing the same thoughts. Before I realize it, I am approaching Sango, my feet moving of their on will. I am almost upon her when she notices me. She turns and graces me with a smile.

"Oh… good morning, Houshi-sama!" the latter slips out naturally.

Sango's eyes grow large as she feels she has offended me in some way.

"I… meant… oh!"

Framing her face in my hands, I reassure her.

"Some things take time, Sango-chan, but don't worry; I am still your Houshi-sama."

I receive a renewed smile from my wife as she walks into my embrace. Lifting her chin, I bestow her with a long lingering kiss. My hands begin to wander, reacquainting themselves with her person.

Relinquishing her lips, I hear her moan softly.

"I think it's time for our next lesson," I stroke her hair, loving the feel of its silken texture.

"Houshi-sama…" Sango gasps, "… it's still morning!"

Pulling her down in the grass, I murmur, "Love has no schedule, my sweet."

"Here?" Sango sounds incredulous, but molds her body to mine.

"I give high marks for creativity," I whisper before claiming her lips again.

"Bakuryuuha!"

The blast from the Tessaiga's backlash wave tears through the demons flesh.

"Hah!" the hanyou yells triumphantly.

"That's the third one this morning," Shippo states worriedly. The little kitsune is standing behind Inuyasha's leg, holding on tight.

"Yeah," Inuyasha says looking around, "but I kinda expected this. As the time draws near to meet with Naraku, I knew we would see more of them."

"B-but… Naraku said we were to fight only with him," the kitsune stammers.

"What?" Inuyasha looks unbelievingly at Shippo. "You fell for that?"

Sheathing the Tessiaga, Inuyasha picks up Shippo and deposits him on a nearby boulder. Propping one foot up, he leans towards the kitsune, resting his arm on his knee.

"Shippo, after all we've been through; don't tell me you believe that lyin' bastard."

"Well… no, but…" the kitsune sighs, "I guess you're right."

"What the hell do ya' mean… I guess?" Inuyasha shouts.

"That coward won't fight alone," the hanyou continues. "He'll slink around and set his minions on us first… just to tire us out. Then, he'll grace us with his worthless presence… just to taunt us."

By now, Inuyasha is pacing back and forth, working himself into a frenzy.

"In two days, Shippo… just two days, I'll have him right where I want him," the hanyou flexes his claws. "Naraku will answer for everything he's done!" Inuyasha swears vehemently.

Shippo's eyes shine with adulation. The kitsune one day hopes to be as strong and fearless as Inuyasha. Repeatedly, he has watched him go against many foes; the hanyou looks forward to every encounter and accepts any challenge. Like now… for the last few days he has sat edgily around waiting for Naraku to appear. The first sign of demons near the village and Inuyasha eagerly grabs the Tessaiga and rushes out to eliminate them. This is the most action he has had in a few days and he is thoroughly enjoying himself.

With the hanyou still ranting, Shippo cannot help but smile. It is just as Kagome says, for all his gruffness; Inuyasha is just one big softie. Although he pretends otherwise, he worries about them all. Shippo's smile grows broader as the ranting becomes more graphic.

Some of Inuyasha's excitement transfers to the kitsune, his chest swells, and his eyes take on a gleam and his little body starts to tremble. Taking in Shippo's altered look, Inuyasha's obscenities come to a sudden stop.

"Uh… Shippo, you okay?"

"Oh yeah!" Shippo gives a devious snicker then hops atop Inuyasha's head and grabs a fistful of his hair; pulling on the tufts like a set of reins.

"Let's go, Inuyasha!" the kitsune shouts, giving the hanyou's head a good whack. "Mush!"

"What the hell…?" Inuyasha's shock turns quickly to anger. "Mush this…"

"Waah!" Shippo yells; the kitsune is sporting a lump on his head from Inuyasha's fist.

"Get a grip, would ya!" Inuyasha leans over him. "Save all that energy for the real bad guys, baka!"

Soaring above the clouds, the taiyoukai watches as the priestess avoids looking down. She has a good seat on Au-un and handles the reins well. Skimming alongside her, something stirs within him to see her raven hair float behind her, the wind caressing the silken locks.

They have not conversed since leaving the ground. Sesshomaru is aware Kikyou has told him enough to pique his curiosity and secure her transportation. The woman is shrewd and calculating, but without being malicious.

How can a woman of this caliber have fallen for his brother? Sesshomaru just cannot fathom Kikyou with that half-wit.

Upon learning, she was the priestess that sealed Inuyasha to a tree years ago, he held resentment for her as well. The sealing had occurred during the war with the cat demon tribe. It was the first time Sesshomaru relented… the first time he listened to Jaken and requested the help of his little brother, only to find him incapacitated. Returning from his quest to recruit Inuyasha, Jaken had informed him the hanyou was in a deep sleep, cursed by this… this human.

Sesshomaru spares Kikyou a sidelong glance. He will know all he needs once reaching Totousai's abode. The master sword artisan will tell all… about Inuyasha, the history of Naraku, the mystery surrounding Midoriko's sword and the connection between them and this exasperating priestess… Kikyou.

"It's good to see you out and about, Kouga," the elder of the white wolf clan says. "He looks well; does he not, Ayame?"

The she-wolf's response is an unladylike sniff, as she stares out of the cave's opening.

"I thought to pay you a visit this time," Kouga bows to the elder, while trying to make eye contact with Ayame. She is as stubborn today as last night, refusing to look at him.

"I came by to personally thank you… both of you, for allowin' us to stay." Kouga addresses the elder then turns to Ayame.

Silence.

"Ayame…" her grandfather growls a warning.

The she-wolf exhales loudly before turning to face them, looking directly at Kouga.

"Forget it," she says in a bored tone. Addressing her grandfather she asks, "May I go now?"

Before the elder can respond, Kouga intervenes.

"No you can't!" he snaps. "I have somethin' to say and damn it, I'm gonna say it! Since yesterday, I've been tryin' to get this out. Now…," Kouga continues, "… sit down and listen to what I have to say!"

In refusal, Ayame steps away from him, intent on leaving, but Kouga blocks her path.

"I said sit… down," he growls deep in his throat.

Ayame's eyes narrow to slits as she and Kouga face off. Both looks prepared to attack the other any minute.

Observing the two, the elder is surprised when Ayame suddenly plops down beside him, still staring hotly at the wolf youkai.

"Thanks!" Kouga sniffs sarcastically, pausing briefly before continuing. "I've been thinkin' about this for some time now; I feel Ginta and Hakkaku should remain here. It wasn't until Ayame rubbed it in my face that I realized, I can't expect them to risk their lives for me. So… instead of tomorrow I will leave tonight, while they're asleep."

"I know you can't make them stay, but if they follow me, this way… by the time they reach me, everything will be over."

"You're still going," Ayame states the obvious, the earlier hostility gone.

"You know I am."

The cave is quiet, each person deep in their own thoughts. Finally, Ayame rises.

"Ginta and Hakaku are welcome to stay with us," she says, staring at Kouga.

Locking gazes with her, the wolf youkai takes a step back. The intensity of her green eyes seems to see into his very soul, enveloping him in its folds. The she-wolf takes in his every feature, from head to toe, recording it to memory. Kouga watches as Ayame gives herself a mental shake and with a small sad smile.

"Take care of yourself, Kouga-kun," she whispers, before exiting the cave.

"Come on, Jaken-sama, cheer up," Rin pleads. "Sesshomaru-sama will be back soon."

The demon toad is feeling dejected. Sesshomaru has left two human children in his care. How humiliating, as if Rin was not enough.

"What's wrong with him?" Kohaku asks and looks over his shoulder at Rin pulling along Jaken.

"He gets like this when Sesshomaru-sama is away."

The trio is heading to the outskirts of Onigumo's cave, instructions per the taiyoukai himself.

Before Kikyou left, she and Kohaku had reformed their plan. She would seek out the demon sword maker and he would investigate Naraku's pre-arrival. Originally, he was to go alone, but the taiyoukai had his own ideas. Kohaku recalled his summons…

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

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. The taijiya spoke without thinking.

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

"Hmph! Nonsense…" he sniffed mockingly, "… both are most resilient and used to expedient travel."

Kohaku swallows hard, his mind searching for a suitable evasion. Keeping his eyes at the level of Sesshomaru's throat, avoiding those damned eyes and his glare; he tried another angle.

"It's Rin I'm concerned about; she should not be placed in danger."

"I agree," Sesshomaru said with a smirk. "You will see that none befalls her while in your care."

Taking his silence as consent, the taiyoukai began walking away with Au-un following behind. Summoning up his nerve, Kohaku opens his mouth to argue this, but Rin grabs his hand stopping him. Looking down at her in question, she beams him a bright smile.

"It's all right; he's going to help Kikyou-sama."

Thinking on this, Kohaku is sure Sesshomaru has a hidden agenda. He will keep that assumption to himself, as Rin appears to trust the taiyoukai completely.

Interrupting his reflections, the little girl yanks on his arm vying for his attention. Bending to her level, Rin cuffs her hands over his ear and whispers.

"I know Sesshomaru-sama left it to you, but we have to pretend that Jaken-sama is the one in charge, okay."

Kohaku looks into her brown eyes… she will be very pretty one day, almost as pretty as Anu-ue. He likes the way her pert little nose scrunches when she smiles. The little imootosan is not so annoying after all.

Crossing his arms, he looks down the path to the demon toad inching along on weighted feet.

"Oi, Jaken-sama!" Kohaku calls out. "What do we do next?"

Miroku and Sango rummage through the store rooms of the dojo. The room holds various items, fabrics, weapons, earthenware and more.

"There are a lot of nice things here. Is this where you found the wakazashi?" the monk asks, while examining a hand carving.

"Yes… it came from over there." Sango points to a corner loaded with an assortment of weapons. "It sounds as if you don't come here often, Houshi-sama."

"I don't… with my travels and pursuing Naraku, I have not had time." Opening another chest he continues, "It always feels good returning. I get a chance to relax; I meditate, read, study and even tried fishing." Miroku chuckles to himself, remembering his first failed attempts; he ended up wetter than the fish.

Sango, however, misinterprets his humor.

"Are those the only things you did here, Houshi-sama?"

Miroku's movements still, as the implication of her remark sinks in.

Sango regrets the words the moment they leave her lips. She quickly turns to the monk, an apology forming. "Houshi-sama, I…" she implores, her hand reaching out to him. What can she say that will retract those condemning words? Helplessly, her hand falls to her side. Clasping her hands in front of her, she curses her waspish tongue. Only one day of marriage and she has already become the nagging wife.

Head bent, Sango senses Miroku approach and braces herself for a reprimand.

"I cannot change my past, Sango. No matter how much you or I may want it," the monk speaks softly. "This place is special to me, it's my sanctuary. I have never brought a woman here; I have always waited for that certain someone."

"Me?" Sango whispers, lifting sad eyes to him.

"Yes, Sango… only you."

Blushing furiously, the taijiya can only think she does not deserve him. She must take care not to abuse Miroku's never-ending patience. As he turns back to the forgotten chest, Sango grabs the back of his robes, slides her arms around his waist and lays her head on his back.

"I'm sorry, Houshi-sama," she says in a small voice. He does not answer, only caresses the arms encircling his waist. Giving her hand a final pat, he pulls her over to an unopened chest.

"Let's go through this one together," the monk says, attempting to lighten the mood.

Although he does not comment, her accusation hurts. As he opens the chest, he attempts to rationalize things from her perspective. His reputation has always preceded him... the lecherous monk, Miroku. He cannot blame Sango for her doubts; he only wants a chance to prove her wrong.

Lifting the lid, Miroku notices the upper half of the chest is full of scrolls. That is odd… he thought they were kept at the main temple. Picking up the one on the top, the monk unrolls it and begins reading. Scanning the first entry, Miroku inhales sharply.

"Kami!"

"What is it Houshi-sama!" Sango is roused from her self-recrimination.

"These are my father's scrolls… the one's I've been searching for!" Turning to the taijiya, the monk's eyes shimmer. "The last writings before he was consumed by the Kazaana. I never thought to look here."

"Oh… are they important? the taijiya has a puzzled expression as she peers over the monk's shoulder.

"I'm hoping to find something… anything that will help us defeat Naraku. My father has to have had an idea or an inkling of something we can use."

Sango dives into the chest with new enthusiasm, loading her arms with as many scrolls she can carry. Taken aback by the quick change; Miroku can see the taijiya is in battle mode. Her face is wearing the same determination earlier when wielding the wakazashi.

"Don't just sit there, Houshi-sama, help me!" Sango's temper is evident. "Let's get them into the main room, we can lay them out, go over them separately and then together, got that!" The taijiya takes off with her load of the scrolls, heading to the front of the dojo.

Miroku sits in stunned silence, unable to move. "Houshi-sama!" Sango snaps, looking over her shoulder. The monk does the only thing he can; picking up the remaining scrolls, he hurries after her.

The journey to Totousai's is a liberating experience for the priestess. For a large beast, Au-un is exceptionally gentle as he glides effortlessly through the skies. Amongst the clouds, Kikyou revels in the capriciousness of the moment; she feels a sense of loss at Sesshomaru's signal to descend.

Au-un lands as graceful as any winged creature. Dismounting, Kikyou walks to the head of the beast and cups its muzzle in her hands. Starting from the top of its large head, the priestess places small strokes the down the snout. Au-un almost appears to sigh in contentment; a deep rumbling vibrates within its chest. Hearing this, Kikyou smothers a husky laugh as the beast acknowledges her thanks.

A few feet away, Sesshomaru observes the interaction between woman and beast. He watches her hands glide across Au-un's massive brow and its reaction. The sensation from earlier returns, but the taiyoukai quickly dismisses the feeling.

"I believe you mentioned time is an important factor in this scheme of yours." Sesshomaru haughtily reminds her.

Kikyou turns to him and for the first time takes in her surroundings. The landscape is dreary, the sun strains to filter through the grey clouds overhead.

"You are right, Sesshomaru-sama," again, that hint of sarcasm. "Which way?"

In response, the taiyoukai simply points a finger.

Kikyou looks over and sees the structure of Totousai's small hut. Tickling Au-un under the chin, she marvels at the smooth texture. With the sword on her back and bow in hand, the priestess heads in that direction.

The sound of battered metal and the smell of burning steel assault her senses. Kikyou listens to the rhythmic hammering indicating the demon forger is at home. Totousai must have heard her approach, before she reaches the opening to his abode; he steps out and greets her with a smile.

"Priestess Kikyou," Totousai gives a bow, "it's a pleasure to finally meet you. I've been expecting you."

"Likewise," Kikyou bows in return, "but, how did you know…"

The priestess is interrupted by Totousai's widening eyes; with a sharp wheeze that turns into a cough, he looks somewhere behind her. Kikyou has no need to turn around; Sesshomaru's aura is prominent. The priestess gently pats the sword forger's back until the coughing is under control.

Turning watery eyes on the taiyoukai, Totousai manages, "You… why are you here?"

To be continued…