The ride into town seemed to take hours. Every occupant of the jeep had but one thing on their mind Goku's survival.

Hakkai sat in the back, caring for the boy as best he could. The saru had stirred only once since losing consciousness. This worried Hakkai greatly. A fever was beginning to develop, and though the bleeding had slowed, it was far to close for comfort.

Gojyo desperately tried to concentrate on driving, but his fear for the saru was consuming him. True, it wasn't like the monkey didn't deserve getting knocked shitless every once in a while. Hell, most times Gojyo was the one to try and throw the first punch! But this was too much. The boy was slowly and painfully bleeding to death not three feet behind him. Gods, it was just too much to soak in.

'How could this have happened? He was only a child.'

'I should have been protecting him,' Sanzo thought

But it was to late now to regret. Now all that matter was getting Goku help.

Hakkaryu screeched to a stop at the first building in the village, a small inn. Gently Hakkai scooped the child and entered with the others.

There was only a young woman behind the desk. She nearly fainted at the sight of them.

"Help us please," Hakkai half begged, "Our young friend has been severely wounded. He needs a doctor quickly."

Sanzo sat on the edge of the small bed, watching the Saru toss restlessly. Hakkai had gone with the land lord to find the village healer, and had taken Gojyo with. This left Sanzo alone with the unconscious Goku.

The boy looked so pitiful. Goku's face and chest glistened with sweat. He lay with one arm wrapped tightly over his belly. The other lay at his side, fingers clutching the sheets so tightly they threatened to tear. Every now and again, the boy let out a tiny whimper or moan.

Sanzo heart felt like it was being twisted. He had never seen Goku in this much pain before. In his heart, he hoped he never have to see it again.

Hakkai and Gojyo hurried after the hunched old healer women as she made her way up the inn stairs.

"Third door on the right" Hakkai quickly informed her once they had reached the second level.

Gojyo hurried to open the door for the old women. As she lay her eyes on the restless young man on the bed her face grew grave.

"You," She addressed Hakkai in her husky aged voice, "Stay here and help me. You two, leave" She said turning on Gojyo and Sanzo.

Gojyo opened his mouth in angered protest but Hakkai silenced him with a harsh look. He followed Sanzo without further complaint. The land lord's daughter stood outside the door and gave the two weary men frightfully.

"Um...You look hungry. I could make something to eat if you'd like. Or maybe some tea?" she asked innocently

Sanzo gave a slow nod as he and the kappa followed the young woman to the kitchens.

As they seated themselves at the small table Gojyo felt the full effect of weariness fall over him. Suddenly he was simply...exhausted.

"What would you like sir?" the girl asked Sanzo

"Just tea is fine."

"Same here" Answered Gojyo

It was odd, but Gojyo had the strange feeling that his stomach wouldn't tolerate liquor. Not tonight.

He watched the as she set to work boiling the water. Only now did he realize how young she must have been. Only thirteen or fourteen at most.

'Great we've successfully traumatized another child on our journey west!'

Gomen, I meant to write more but...

Any way thanks to my wonderful reviewers!

Goku-Chan!!!, Koto Juri, Koinu-Chan, and Kitroen!

Thanks Guys!