"Oh no, Yuuki!" Shippo rushed over to her side and stared up at her concerned, seeing her holding her shoulder wound. The blood was overflowing her hand and rosary, staining her clothes. She was pale and sweating, panting hard as she stared blankly at the floor. He turned to Kagome and Inuyasha, "She's lost a lot of blood."

"Hold on," Kagome hurried to her side and set down her quiver and bow to bring around her backpack. Shippo backed away beside Inuyasha to give them room, watching in worry. Inuyasha sheathed his sword and sat down, resting as he glared at the ground. Utsugi was so powerful- it frustrated him that they got away. "Stay with me, Yuuki," Kagome said urgently and he glanced over.

Yuuki's gaze was turning dull as Kagome pulled her sleeve down, wiping the blood away from her wound. "I'm fine…" She replied weakly, struggling to keep her eyes open. While her body was on fire with searing pain before, she was becoming oddly numb now.

Kagome quickly applied gauze to the wound and pressed clean pads to it. She was focused as she brought out medical tape, strapping the pads down around her shoulder expertly with little room. "There," she pushed her bloodied sleeve back up and then rummaged through her backpack again. She got a water bottle and opened it for her saying, "Drink this: you need fluids back." She held it to Yuuki's lips and slowly helped her drink.

Inuyasha stared back at the doors, seeing the Headman approach with a smile. "You defeated them!" He celebrated with arms wide, ignoring or oblivious to the scene.

"Are you blind!?" Inuyasha barked at him. "They just ran away!"

The Headman stopped short and looked around, seeing the wounded Yuuki being tended to and Inuyasha injured, Shippo with a sad, worried look on his face. He then frowned saying, "Oh. I'm so sorry for what happened to you."

Kagome glanced back at him with a weak smile. "It's all right, Headman. Kagura and Utsugi are the evil ones."

Yuuki brought a hand up and pushed the watch bottle away gently. She sighed in satisfaction, needing that water. "She's right," she said to Kagome's surprise. She looked over at the Headman and added, "You didn't know any better."

He bowed to her respectfully. "Not only are you forgiving, but you saved my life. You are an angel."

Yuuki have him a strange look. Shippo put his hands behind his head and smiled, saying for Yuuki, "I think that's taking it a little too far."

"Oh, come on," Kagome smiled at her. "You really are kind."

Yuuki closed her eyes. If she had the blood still her face possibly would've turned red from embarrassment. "Anyways," she said, changing the subject. "From what Kagura and Utsugi were saying it seems there's a connection between Naraku and me being brought to this world." Her fist tightened in frustration, but her grip was weak. "They were right there, but I didn't get anywhere closer to getting home."

"Yuuki, don't stress yourself," Kagome said as she gently placed a hand on her good shoulder. "I can guarantee there will be another chance."

"Yeah," Inuyasha agreed as he stood up. "No doubt Naraku won't be leaving us alone. Especially since he's out looking to capture you."

Yuuki struggled to stand and Kagome helped pull her up to her feet. "Please," the Headman said, gaining their attention. "You're wounded. Rest here for the night so you can recover. It's the least I can do for how I treated you earlier."

Yuuki closed her eyes and shook her head. "Sorry, but we're on a mission."

"We should head back to Kaede's Village for now," Kagome said, putting back on her backpack and weapon. "Thank you, though, Headman," she added politely as she slung Yuuki's good arm around her shoulder.

"Of course," He bowed to them as they walked out of his manor.

By the time they made it back to Kaede's Village the evening crows were cawing. Yuuki was fine enough to walk on her own, her bloodied shirt now dry and crusted. As they entered the village Shippo exclaimed from Inuyasha's shoulder, "Oh!"

Yuuki looked up as Kagome waved, "Sango! Miroku! You're back!"

She blinked and from over their shoulders could see a man in purple monk clothing holding a golden staff and a woman with long brown hair carrying a giant boomerang on her back. The two turned and smiled at them in greeting. "Hey, Kagome!" Miroku greeted back cheerfully.

"We just got back," Sango explained as they walked up.

"That sure took you a while," Inuyasha complained as he crossed his arms.

"Don't say that, Inuyasha," Miroku replied, unbothered by his attitude. "We went through a lot, too!" He then paused and stared in surprise, making eye contact with Yuuki behind them. "Hey, who is that?" He asked, pointing at her.

Kagome only smiled as she and Inuyasha stepped out of her way, allowing Miroku and Sango to see her fully. Miroku was shocked while Sango gasped, "You're wounded!"

"She's fine," Inuyasha brushed off and Yuuki shot him a tired glare.

"This is my friend Fujiwara Yuuki," Kagome explained, "She's from my time. There's a lot to go over. Yuuki, these are my friends Sango and Miroku," she introduced, gesturing to them. There was a meow and Yuuki looked down to see a small kitten with two tails staring up at her. "And that's Sango's companion Kirara, " she added.

"What happened to your shoulder?" Miroku asked as he approached her.

Yuuki looked down at her shoulder frustrated. "We had a run in with Kagura and a woman named Utsugi in Kasasagi Village. I got hit by Kagura's attack, but Kagome patched me up." Just the thought of that Kagura woman set a fire inside Yuuki. She sighed, ignoring it, and looked back at them asking, "So, you two appear human. What are your occupations?"

"I am a monk," Miroku replied with a bow of his head. "It's a pleasure to meet you."

"And I'm a Demon Slayer," Sango replied. She then stared at them regretful saying, "So, you had a run in with Kagura, huh?"

"Unfortunately," Kagome replied with a nod. "Yuuki's a little obsessed with her now."

"Yuuki may not seem strong," Shippo piped up, gaining their attention, "But she knows the mysterious Seishin powers! She can fight really well; I've seen it!"

Miroku hummed in curiosity, staring at her in interest. "Seishin powers?" Yuuki blinked at he moved closer to her, Inuyasha giving him a suspicious glare. "Excuse me, Yuuki?"

She knit her brows together and stared him up and down, leaning away from his closeness. "…Yeah?"

He set his staff against his shoulder to take her hands into his. He gazed deeply into her eyes, making her blush, and asked, "Would you do me the honor of bearing my children?"

Her face went beet red, staring at him wide eyed and frozen for a moment. "I-I don't- that's not- I..." She was at a loss for words.

"Miroku!" Kagome scolded.

"Don't take him seriously," Shippo said and she glanced at him. "He says the same thing to all the girls."

"Excuse me," Sango cut in coldly. Miroku froze as Yuuki slipped from his grasp backing away. "Miroku," she glared at him with a dangerous aura flaring around her. "Shouldn't we tell them what we found out?"

"Oh! Right," Miroku backed away and ignored the fact she was glaring daggers at him.

"Did you find out where Naraku is?" Inuyasha asked.

"We didn't find out anything specific," he replied. "But there are a lot of strange things happening in the castle."

"What kind?" Yuuki quickly asked, her blush slowly fading away.

He looked over at her surprised. "Oh, are you interested, too?"

"Yes," she nodded, her expression turning serious. "It appears Naraku is responsible for bringing me into this time, though I don't know how."

"Well, from what we heard," Miroku began to explain, "all the cows on the castle grounds have disappeared. And all the people who've gone to pay their taxes have never come back."

"We witnessed a whole bunch of demons heading towards the castle with our own eyes," Sango added.

"This stinks of Naraku," Inuyasha said as he crossed his arms.

Yuuki held her shoulder and shifted her weight on her feet feeling anxious. "So, where is the castle?"

"From here, it's best to head through Tsuzumi Village," Miroku replied.

"Well then, our first step is to head there," Yuuki said to Inuyasha and he nodded back in agreement.

Shippo sweat dropped at their behavior. "A guess a common enemy brings people together."

"I guess so," Kagome agreed, smiling at them.

Miroku slumped over suddenly appearing exhausted. "We just got back and now we're heading out again already?"

Yuuki glanced at him, putting a hand on her hip. "Oh, right, you just got back. You must be tired."

Miroku suddenly perked up to Sango's annoyance. Giving his most handsome smile he said, "Thank you for your concern, Yuuki. You're very kind."

Despite the flat glare she gave him, she still blushed. "Aren't monks supposed to be sworn off or something?"

"Now, now," he said as he walked closer to her, "No need to be shy."

She leaned away from him, her skin prickling furiously. "Believe me, monk, it isn't like that," she insisted in a warning tone.

Miroku took a step closer, but suddenly Sango's boomerang slammed down on his head, sending him face first into the ground. Yuuki stared down at his twitching body for a moment and then looked over at Sango, seeing her tick mark throbbing on her head. "Miroku, you're very tired. I think you need to go lie down for a moment," she said.

"I… Think you're right…" he muffled into the ground, a large lump forming on his head.

"Come on, Yuuki," Kagome said as she took her hand. "I'll give you my change of clothes and wash the blood out of yours."

She gave a tired smile at her friend and nodded. "Thank you, Kagome." Inuyasha dragged Miroku across the dirt by his foot as he followed the girls back to Kaede's hut.

Yuuki was slow to wake, her mind feeling foggy. She peeked her eyes open to see an unfamiliar ceiling, cherry blossom petals dancing on the breeze over her head. Where am I...? Slowly she rolled over, her body feeling like lead. There was someone standing across the room. Yuuki's eyes trailed from their feet to their head, seeing it was a priestess with long black hair. The woman had a haze around her, and she looked at Yuuki with piercing silver eyes. "You're still here."

Yuuki slowly blinked. "I..." She tried to speak, but her throat was thick and the words struggled to come out. Who is she...? Am I dreaming...? Her eyes trailed down to her chest, spotting the blue pearl hanging from black string.

The woman quickly covered it with her hand and glared at her. "It's dangerous for you to be here. Return to your time."

"I... I can't..."

The priestess narrowed her eyes. There was a sound of a sliding door opening and Yuuki looked over.

Yuuki jumped awake in cold sweat, the frightening image of Utsugi's mask still burned into her mind. "Yuuki? Are you all right?" Yuuki quickly turned her head to see Sango sitting, wiping her boomerang in her lap with a cloth. There was a mewl and she glanced beside her, seeing Kirara sitting next to her, staring back with intelligent eyes.

Yuuki closed her eyes and swallowed, trying to calm herself. "Yeah… Just haven't been sleeping very well." She slowly forced herself to sit up and looked around. It was empty besides for her and Sango. I can't really remember my dream again. Every time she woke, however, she had an ominous feeling. "Where is everyone?" She asked.

"We decided to take the day off today since you weren't waking up," she replied with a smile. "I volunteered to watch you while the others split into groups."

"I see…" Yuuki glanced beside her, seeing her torn uniform folded next to her. She stood and changed out of Kagome's pajama's, putting her uniform back on. She examined her sleeve; it sewn back together.

"Kaede mended your clothes for you," Sango explained and Yuuki looked at her. "Kagome also changed your bandages while you were sleeping."

"Oh, wow," she frowned at her shoulder sadly. "That was kind of them." It ached something fierce, and the pain only reminded her of Kagura's stupid face. She wanted to repay that woman. Now she was more useless than before with her wound.

"I'm sorry for Miroku yesterday," Sango apologized, snapping her back to reality. Yuuki sat back down and looked over at her, seeing her furiously work on her weapon. "He may be a monk, but he's a lecher."

"So long as you're not upset with me, I'm fine."

"Huh?" Sango was snapped out of her fury, staring at her confused. "Why would I be upset with you?"

"Well, you like him, right?" She asked and Sango went a little red in the face. Yuuki blinked, and then went a little red herself, putting her hands up. "S-sorry! I didn't mean to be so blunt! You see, a friend of mine brought to my attention how unobservant I can be about those types of things, and I guess it got the better of me and I was trying to see if I noticed- I'm so sorry that I was terribly rude of me! My exhaustions just put me in rare form." Yuuki felt like a fool and now found herself rambling. She couldn't remember a time she'd been so flustered.

Kirara tilted her head up at Sango as she stared down at her weapon, her face turning a dark shade of red. "I-it's fine, no need to apologize," she replied and resumed polishing her boomerang furiously.

Kirara watched as both girls sat in an awkward silence, their faces red. Yuuki glanced at her and then her boomerang. She cleared her throat, "So, what is that thing?" She asked, gesturing to it.

"This is Hiraikotsu," Sango replied and held it up for her to show. "It's made of the bones of demons."

Yuuki nodded, understanding. "Slaying demons with the bones of their kin. A little morbid, but what isn't I suppose." She then nodded over to Kirara and asked, "And so Kirara is...?"

"She's my companion since I was a child," Sango pet her and she closed her eyes purring. "She's a nekomata demon. She fights alongside me in battles. When she fights she can transform to a larger size and has the ability of flight."

"Well," Yuuki smiled at the cat, "That's very impressive. I look forward to witnessing that."

"Is that Yuuki?" Kagome asked as she walked into the hut. They looked over at her, seeing her holding a basket of vegetables. She smiled, seeing her friend up and said, "Hey, you're awake! Are you feeling all right?"

"A little stiff," she replied, trying to rotate her shoulder. "But other than that I'm fine. Thank you for washing my clothes," she added as she stood.

"It was no problem," Kagome replied as she set the basket down. She fished out a yellow apron from her backpack and asked, "Do you want to help me with the cooking?"

"Of course," she replied with a smile.

Sango looked back at them and asked, "What are you guys making?"

"We haven't been eating well lately," Kagome explained as Yuuki took a potato and began peeling it. "I thought we could make some bento boxes for the trip tomorrow to Tsuzumi Village."

"That's a good idea," Sango smiled. She then turned to face them, continuing to polish her weapon as Kagome and Yuuki cooked food.

Kaede then entered her hut and smiled at them. "Ah, Yuuki, you're awake."

Yuuki glanced at her and nodded politely. "Afternoon, Kaede. Thank you for mending my clothes."

She smiled, "It was no problem, child. What are ye making?" She asked as she approached.

"Bento boxes for the travel tomorrow," Sango replied for them.

"Ye are all traveling tomorrow?" Kaede questioned. "In that case," they paused and watched her walk over to her dresser. "I don't want to be adding to your baggage, but ye should take this," Yuuki set down her knife and took the clothes Kaede handed to her. "They are from when I was younger, so they should fit ye."

Yuuki held out the clothes in mild surprise. "They're… Priestess clothing."

"A haori and hakama," Kagome clarified. "You should accept them, Yuuki. It's a long journey and we don't know how long your uniform is going to hold out."

It wasn't like she hadn't worn them before, but it still felt strange. Not only did it give her déjà vu from her foggy dream, but she was also a full fledge priestess now. She had special powers after all, and her purifying ability would do it if nothing else. She smiled and bowed to Kaede saying, "Thank you."

"Consider them yours now," Kaede replied. "Now, since ye girls are already cooking ye can start dinner as well. I'm going to go relax."

Yuuki smiled at the old woman as she left. After finishing up the bento boxes they got started on dinner, using what was left over. Once the boys returned they ate and then rested, and then the next morning they set out to the east for Tsuzumi Village. Hawks called out as they circled in the morning sky, the group walking along the trails through the forest. Along the journey they were approaching some monk statues for travelers to pray at. Yuuki perked up, seeing an old man with a cane standing at them. "Grandpa Kakuju?" She called out.

"Kakuju?" Sango questioned curious and Yuuki ran ahead.

"He's an old Priest that taught Yuuki how to use her Seishin powers," Kagome explained to her.

The group walked calmly after her as she ran up to the old man. She smiled at him as he turned to her, feeling happy to see him. "Hey, Grandpa."

"Ah, Yuuki," he said as she stopped at him. "I'm glad I ran into you so soon. There was something I wanted to give you, and I'm sure that monk will be able to help you use it."

Yuuki tilted her head a little as he rummaged in his kimono. The group paused and Miroku walked up next to her, curious as well. When Kakuju pulled it out he questioned, "A talisman?"

"Yes," Kakuju nodded and handed it to Yuuki. "You can channel your powers through your rosary to fight. But if you channel your powers through this then you can help others fight as well."

"I see," Miroku brought a hand to his chin as Yuuki examined it. "So with that she can combine her powers with one of us to amplify the attack."

"Precisely," Kakuju nodded. "Now, you have a long journey ahead of you. You should get going."

"Thank you, Grandpa Kakuju," Yuuki smiled and tucked the talisman away in her skirt pocket. "See you soon."

He nodded again and went to leave, but paused. "Yuuki, have you been getting much sleep? You appear tired."

"Oh," Yuuki lightly touched under her eye where she was sure a dark bag was. "Well, sort of. I've been having odd dreams."

Kakuju hummed. He moved closer and guided her away a little from her friends. He said in a low tone, "I would suggest meditation. It will clear your mind and strengthen your bond with the Seishin. It will also help you sort out the presence looming over you."

Yuuki frowned at him. "Presence?" She questioned.

Kakuju nodded, seeing as clearly as she could see him a shadow looming over her. "There appears to be a connection between you and another with spiritual powers. Do not be alarmed, it doesn't appear hostile. However it's very irritable."

"Oh..." She nodded, feeling unsure. "All right." With that Kakuju bid the group farewell.

"What was that about?" Kagome asked as they resumed walking.

Yuuki wasn't exactly sure how to explain it herself. "He was just giving me a meditation tip," she replied.

They continued traveling until about noon when they stopped at a bridge going over a river for a small break. Kagome passed out the bento boxes they made yesterday and began eating their lunch. "This is delicious!" Miroku said as he sat too close to Yuuki. She closed her eyes and focused on eating her food, her tick mark obvious to everyone else. "Yuuki, did you say you made this?" He asked her.

Yuuki swallowed and then replied coldly, "I said I helped Kagome make it. I didn't do much." She then resumed her eating.

Kagome looked from him over to Sango sadly. She sat further away from the group and ate with Kirara. Shippo looked over as well and said, "He's such an idiot."

"If he doesn't back off then Yuuki's gonna throttle him for Sango," Inuyasha added as he ate his bento box behind them.

"Shall I teach you how to use the talisman while we're resting?" Miroku asked Yuuki.

"No." He turned dejected as she continued to eat.

The travel was a little more strained after that. Yuuki kept close to Kagome in the front with Inuyasha behind them, blocking off Miroku and leaving him to fend for himself as he walked with the still furious Sango. They made it to the more mountainous region as they passed the wooden post reading 'Tsuzumi Village'.

"Finally," Shippo said in relief. "We made it."

"Help!" A man shouted followed by the roar of a demon. The group braced themselves, seeing an old man running towards them with several flying skeletal demons chasing after him. "Help me!"

"Old man!" Sango shouted, "Get behind us! Quickly!" The man didn't have to be told twice.

As he hid behind the group the demons stopped short, the front one glaring at them. "Out of our way!" It rasped, "Or else I'll eat you, too!"

"Let's see you try!" Inuyasha shouted back, raising his clawed hand.

The demons flew at them and Sango shouted, "Hiraikotsu!" She swung her massive boomerang like it was nothing, flying thorough the air in a tight arc obliterating the demons one by one. Yuuki stared in surprise as Sango caught her weapon one handed and swung left and right, deftly destroying the remaining demons.

"Wow, Sango," Sango looked back at Yuuki's surprised expression. "You're powerful." The bones of the demons were nothing but dust that blew away in the wind.

Sango blinked at her and then smiled bashfully. "It was nothing, really. I owe it to practice." Perhaps, yet Yuuki suddenly felt her efforts weren't worth much. If I'm to be of any help to them I'll need to get better.

"That was not nothing!" The old man said and they all tuned to him. He smiled and bowed to them. "Thank you for saving my life. My name is Densuke." He stood upright and then frowned. "This area has become so dangerous. I went out to do some shopping for the festival and all of a sudden I was being chased. I didn't know what was going to become of me."

"Well, you're lucking we ran into you," Inuyasha said.

"We're glad you're okay," Kagome quickly added for him.

"Thank you so much for helping me," Densuke said as he bowed again. "You must be in the middle of traveling, but it's getting late. If you would like, you can stay at my home tonight. It's the least I can do in return for saving my life. You're very welcome to stay there."

"It would be rude of us to refuse," Miroku replied and Yuuki shot him a look.

With his perverse attitude it was hard for her to trust him. "Miroku," she warned.

"It would be nice to sleep in a real bed," Kagome added and Yuuki looked over at her disappointed.

"Well, if you've made your decision, then come with me," Densuke said and led them into Tsuzumi Village. His hut wasn't much different than Kaede's when they entered it. He gestured around and said, "This is my home. It's not much, but you're welcome to stay here as long as you like. The rest of the highway is blocked anyway."

Inuyasha and Yuuki both perked up at that. "You mean the highway that goes to the castle?" She asked.

He nodded. "Yes, all this heavy rainfall caused a big landslide. So we can't use the highway now."

"That's unfortunate," Kagome murmured sadly.

"We're unlucky," Miroku agreed, but with a smile on his face.

Shippo shot him a suspicious glare. "You look pretty happy though, Miroku."

"No, not at all," he said shaking his head. His smile died down once he was caught, but there was a mischievous glint in his eye. "Anyway, are there any young maidens in the village?"

Densuke only gave him a confused look. "What?"

"Now I get it," Inuyasha murmured, shooting him the stink eye.

"Some monk," Yuuki grumbled with him, crossing her arms. "He's such an unattractive pervert…"

"What was that?" Miroku asked hopefully, smiling as he glided over to Yuuki.

She gave him a cold stare and Sango's angry look slid in between her and Miroku, preventing him from getting closer. "She called you unattractive and a pervert," she snapped. "And I agree with her."

Miroku backed off with a frown. "You're so harsh, Sango." She marched off passed him and he called after her, "Wait, where are you going?"

She stopped short at the door and glared back at him replying, "If we're going to be here for a while; I'm going to go see if I can find any information about the castle."

After she left it was quiet for a moment. Densuke then inquired, "I hate to be nosey, but is she a Demon Slayer? Her weapon is unique and I haven't seen skills such as hers in a long time."

"Yes, she is," Miroku answered.

He was surprised. "Such a rarity. Since that incident, we don't see them anymore."

Yuuki glanced at him confused. "Incident? What are you talking about?" She figured Demon Slayers would be common given the local wildlife.

"There once was a Demon Slayer Village," Kagome began to explain. "Everyone in that village was trained to become professional Demon Slayers." She became sad. "Through trickery, Naraku completely destroyed the village. Her friends and family were all wiped out; the only survivors being Sango and her younger brother, but her brother was taken by Naraku."

Yuuki was suddenly humbled, letting Sango's history sink in. Inuyasha growled in his corner, "Damn Naraku…" She glanced over at Miroku, seeing his angered expression gazing at the ground.

"I assume it's best not to bring it up in front of her," she said and Kagome nodded.

"I will go make your beds," Densuke said quietly and went into the back room.

The group idly sat around as the sun set outside, waiting for Sango to return. Yuuki took the time to practice meditation like Kakuju said, however it wasn't so easy to tune out Inuyasha and Shippo bickering. Densuke was kind enough to make them dinner and Kagome took the time to change Yuuki's bandages. Examining them she said, "You're going to have a pretty big scar, but it won't be nasty."

Yuuki only shrugged her good shoulder. "I don't really care so long as I have my arm still," she said and then mumbled under her breath, "And give Kagura a matching one."

Once Sango returned she seemed happier, smiling as she announced, "I'm back!"

Miroku was the first to his feet, smiling back at her. "Welcome back, Sango. Did you find out anything?"

Sango then seemed a little befuddled as she replied, "No, actually. I couldn't find very many people here."

"Well, we can't use the highway now, so we might as well take it easy," he said.

"Exactly," Densuke agreed as he came back out to the main room. "Well," he clapped his hands together with a smile. "Your beds are prepared and dinner is ready. Let's eat and then you all get some rest."

"Thank you, Densuke," Kagome said as they sat around the table.

Yuuki was very confused standing in the middle of a dark forest. Everything appeared a bit hazy as she looked around. "Where am I...?" Surprised, she touched her throat. To her own ears it sounded like her voice was filtered through water. Then she realized her shoulder wasn't hurting, and examining it there wasn't proof of stitching on her school sleeve.

Wasn't I in Kagome's pajama's in bed? There was a snap and Yuuki looked up. It was brief, but she caught a glimpse of a woman walking by. She gasped, her eyes widening. It's that priestess!

The priestess with long black hair and wearing a blue pearl around her neck, the one she had been dreaming of every night. Needing answers, Yuuki ran through the woods- without making a sound oddly enough- and ran out ahead on the forest path to cut her off. She put her hands up, "Please, wait!"

The priestess stopped short, mildly surprised for only a moment before she frowned at her. "So, you've returned again."

Yuuki was able to relax, seeing the woman wasn't going to attack or ignore her. "Who are you? Why do I see you every time I sleep?"

"Who I am is of no concern of yours." The woman moved closer to her and showed a few inches of height different. Looking down at her with her intense stare she spoke quietly, "You must answer my questions. Before you told me you couldn't return to your time. Why?"

"I'm not sure, I'm trying to figure it out myself," she replied, eyeing the priestess skeptically. "A question for a question. Who are you to me? Not that I'm against the idea of going home, but why are you so hell bent that I leave?"

The priestess stared at her for a moment, debating on her answer. "Your presence here is more dangerous than you realize. Just by existing you are a threat to my life."

Yuuki was surprised to hear that. "To your life?"

"My turn. Have you heard of a demon named Naraku?"

Yuuki stared at the woman for a moment. She had no idea what their connection was, but she decided to go over what little information that she knew. The priestess was patient and listened, and once she was finished she said, "I see." She then moved around her and walked on. Yuuki blinked, taken aback for a moment before hurrying after her. The woman then spoke again, "I had a hunch that he would be behind this, though I can't guess for what reason; if it's because of me or if he has another plan all together. I'm currently on my way to the castle he supposedly resides in."

Yuuki knit her brows together. "And do what?"

"You and your friends are fools if you believe you can defeat him without the aid of a powerful priest or priestess." Yuuki was dumbfounded at this woman's audacity as she glanced sideways down at her. "I plan to help you all, if I can make it in time, and find a way to send you back to your time."

Yuuki sighed heavily, a blush dusting her cheeks from her frustration. "Thank you, I suppose. Would you mind telling me who you are? And what our connection is? Why you keep dragging me to you every night? I haven't been getting any actual rest spending time with you."

The priestess came to a stop and Yuuki crossed her arms waiting. She stared out at the distance, mulling over her words in her head. Yuuki watched as she absently fiddled with the blue pearl around her neck. The woman came to a conclusion with a sigh and dropped her arm. "It's not I that is bring you here. There is a tether between us. A spiritual link that drags you out of your own body while you're unconscious. The same tether that connects me to this jewel." Yuuki openly stared at the woman confused, and then glanced at the jewel around her neck. What in the world is she talking about? She turned to her and gained her attention again. "It's the reason why you've connected to your abilities so soon and so effortlessly. You and I share the same soul; I amplify you. We cannot exist on the same plane and I am at risk of death because of it."

Yuuki was stunned. "I..." Is she saying I'm her reincarnation? "How do you know all that for sure?"

"You're here again, aren't you?"

Yuuki blinked. Before she could say anything else, she was suddenly flying, being pulled away and the world blurring around her, and the priestess watched as she went.

Yuuki slowly opened her eyes, staring at the ceiling of Densuke's hut. She was exhausted to her core, her lack of sleep weighing on her. She remembered that time. Yuuki didn't know if it was because of the meditation or not, but she at least remembered everything.

"You awake?" Inuyasha asked and she rolled her head over, seeing him sitting upright against the wall. He was surprised when he saw her face, "Damn, did you sleep at all? You look awful."

Yuuki was too tired to care. "Do you ever lie down to sleep?" She asked, her voice groggy.

"Not since I was a kid," he replied. Yuuki took off her blanket and slowly sat up, groaning from the stiffness in her shoulder. "How's your arm?" He asked.

She sighed once she was upright and slowly began to rotate it. "It's sore and stiff. I haven't been moving it enough I think."

"Hm…?" Sango stirred and lifted her head, seeing Yuuki and Inuyasha awake. "Good morning, you two," she greeted as she sat up.

"Morning," they both replied.

Soon enough Shippo woke up along with Kagome and then Miroku. Once they were up and awake, Kagome and Yuuki changed back into their uniforms and joined the others at the table as Densuke served them breakfast. As they ate their meal Miroku suggested, "So, shall we go question around town about the castle?"

"Yes, but we should stay in pairs," Kagome said. She then looked over at Inuyasha and asked, "Do you wanna come with me, Inuyasha?" Yuuki took the quickest glance at her, feeling her chest tighten.

"Yeah, sure," he replied easily. Yuuki looked back to her bowl, wondering what in the world she just felt. It wasn't disappointment, was it?

"And I'll go with Yuuki," Miroku declared.

Yuuki sighed at her bowl of stew, the bags under her eyes feeling suddenly heavier. "Do I have to?" Somehow she felt even worse.

"I'll be with Sango, then!" Shippo said happily as he scurried over to her.

"Well, I suppose it's decided then," Sango said as she stood. Yuuki glanced at her worried slightly. She didn't want to get on her bad side. Sango caught her glance and flashed her a smile, to her surprise. Yuuki only smiled back faintly. She must trust her then.

The group left Densuke's house and split up. Yuuki sighed unhappily as Miroku stood beside her and said, "So, shall we go for a walk?"

"I suppose," she replied and walked off without him. "Sango said there weren't many people yesterday, so it may be slim pickings."

They were quiet for a while and it was oddly comfortable despite Yuuki not being familiar with him. As if to make small talk he said, "So, like Kagome, you're from a different era."

Yuuki nodded, "That's right."

He looked at her and asked, "So are you and Kagome close?"

She smiled faintly to herself, "Yes, very close actually. We've been best friends since we were kids. Both her and I were born into families with shrines, so we hit it off from the start. You all most likely haven't heard about me, which is fine. In fairness I hadn't heard much about you guys, but that's the burden Kagome carries I suppose."

Miroku sighed and stared up at the sky. Yuuki glanced up at him and was surprised to see the sadness in his eyes despite wearing a smile. "It must be a small comfort for you to at least see your good friend again. I can't imagine what it must be like to travel through time… I remember a time when I missed my home and had no one to rely on."

Her eyebrows went up as they slowed to a stop. "Oh, Miroku…" She suddenly felt guilty for how she treated him.

She was going to inquire further, but he smiled at her and said, "Don't be sad. If you want to cry, you can cry on my shoulder."

He held his arm out for her, and she sighed so heavily that he blinked at her. Perhaps she would have cared more if she wasn't so exhausted. "You really don't give it a rest, do you?"

He laughed lightly, "I jest, my apologies. You seem worn-out."

"I am." They resumed walking, and so Yuuki decided to try again. "So... how did you come together with Kagome's group?"

"We all have our connection to Naraku," he replied, which made sense to her. He held out his hand that was covered in cloth tied down with rosary. "Do you know why I keep this hand covered?" She shook her head. "Naraku had cursed my family with a Wind Tunnel. It can suck anything up to oblivion. I witnessed my father become consumed by the very thing when it grew too big, and soon that same fate will befall me if I don't kill him."

She was shocked, staring at his hand. To be cursed with death...She then frowned, "Seems Naraku is set to make everyone's life a living Hell."

Miroku nodded, lowering his hand. "He will succeed, too, if we don't stop him from collecting the jewel shards." He noticed them coming upon a bench and gestured to it, "Let's rest here. We've been walking a while with no luck." Yuuki didn't argue and they sat down, only once she did she let out a tremendous sigh and leaned forward. He was surprised, "You're more exhausted than you seem. Have you been sleeping well?"

"Not really," she groaned as she hung her head. It was impossible to try and sort everything out in her head while she was so drained.

He looked at her concerned, "What is it that ails you? Are you sick?"

Yuuki shook her head and then lifted it to stifle a yawn behind her hand, tears prickling her eyes. "Not sick," she managed to get out. "Just haven't been sleeping well."

Miroku hummed, watching her a moment. "Well, let's rest here a bit. Maybe someone will pass us by and we can speak with them." Yuuki was thankful. Her legs probably wouldn't work if she tried to stand up. "You can lay your head in my lap and take a nap if you wish!"

"No thanks."

He was a lecher, but he wasn't all bad, she supposed. She didn't worry about it too much as they fell into comfortable silence again. Yuuki decided to take the time to try and sort things out in her head. Was that meeting she had with the priestess real? What was she talking about sharing the same soul? And that jewel... Every time she saw it Yuuki couldn't help but notice it above everything else. Like it was drawing her in.

"Hey, Miroku... You've been traveling for a while, haven't you?"

"Hm? Why yes," he turned to her, "why do you ask?"

Yuuki rested her head in her hands, staring at the ground as she thought. "Have you ever heard of a blue pearl? Carried by a priestess?"

"Blue Pearl? You mean the Dai Saishi no Tama; the pearl of the High Priestess?" Yuuki looked at him more amazed that he had an answer for her. He brought a hand to his chin, "I don't know too much of its purpose or whereabouts unfortunately, however it's odd you would ask about it considering you're from a different era. Why do you ask, Yuuki?"

I might as well go over everything with him. She proceeded to explain to him the dreams she had been having, and the most recent one last night. "It's like she's more real than I am. Like I'm a ghost or something, so I can't tell if it's actually real or not." Yuuki sighed, holding her head in her hands again. "Honestly my biggest problem right now is trying to get it to stop. If I don't get some decent sleep then I'm going to collapse."

He hummed for a moment, nodding. "I see. It sounds like astral projection, or an out-of-body experience. I've heard of it being possible through great sessions of meditation, but it sounds like whatever connection you have to this priestess is literally dragging your soul out of your body while you're physically at your weakest."

"How do I fix that?"

"I would continue meditation," he replied. "It can strengthen the connect between your mind and body. A stronger connection could prevent your soul from escaping you. What are your plans about the priestess?"

"Honestly nothing right now." Yuuki forced herself to stand up and stretch, careful of her shoulder. "If we meet her then we do, if not then not. Either way we both just want me to go home, so that's what I'm going to focus on-"

Her eyes snapped open and she jumped, feeling something cup underneath her ass and squeeze. She whipped her head around to see the cloth covered hand and then looked up at Miroku's innocent face staring right at her. Her face went bloody red. "Wh-what... the hell..." Her body was trembling from sheer rage.

Guiltless as ever Miroku said, "I thought I would kindly give you a pick-me-up to lift your weary body." His hand then groped her a few time, almost hard enough to make her ass cheek hurt.

With a ferocious shout and the Seishin power behind her glowing fist, Yuuki punched him across the face as hard as she could. He went flying off the bench and hit the ground hard, rolling a few times before slamming into a tree and remaining motionless. Yuuki walked off without checking his well being, rotating her injured shoulder and shouting, "You're on your own! Pervert!"

She marched through the village feeling violated and humiliated, her face practically glowing red. "I can't believe that jackass," she hissed to herself. "I'm not being left alone with him again." The worst part about it for her was that she sort of... liked it. She put her hands in her face and muffled an angry scream. It wasn't that the monk was attractive in any way, however her body responded in a way that reminded her that she hadn't relieved herself in a while. It's not like I've had any privacy, she thought in her own defense. It's not my fault!

She would take the matter to her grave. She couldn't handle the thought of Inuyasha humiliating her further if he found out.

The village was fairly large, though it wasn't close to a city. She walked alone in an attempt to calm herself down, following the river that cut through the village. As her anger died down, her fatigue returned, and she didn't bother to approach the few villagers she saw to question them about the castle. As she neared the waterfall at the back of the village that fed the river, she could hear the faint roar of a demon. She looked up instantly, suddenly filled with energy, and ran towards the sound. She headed towards the waterfall and around the cliff, finding a fenced off clearing. She stopped short to see the winged lizard demon facing off with a young boy. "Run!" She shouted and pulled off her rosary, "Get away!"

"What?" The demon whirled around confused.

Yuuki froze as she witnessed a blade slice through the demon's stomach. She blinked and it was suddenly a bloody heap on the ground with sliced intestines spilling out, staining the dirt. Looking up, she realized the boy held a sickle with a long chain attached. He was even wearing a kind of battle armor with a tanto at his hip. "Well, I guess I wasn't needed," she said as she put her rosary back on. As she approached the boy she asked, "Are you all right at least?"

He smiled up at her with big brown eyes. "Yeah, I'm all right. Thank you for willing to help me though."

There was a soft mew and she looked down to see a kitten peeking out from behind his foot. "You were protecting the cat?"

"Yes," he replied, smiling at her again.

"I see," she then looked over his weapon and asked, "So, what kind of weapon is that?"

"It's called a Kusarigama," he replied, holding the weapon up for her to see. "It's a bit different from the usual ones; it's actually heavier."

"It's very impressive," she commented, crossing her arms. "You seem like a capable boy. So what's your name? Do you live around here?"

"My name is Kohaku," he replied, lowering his weapon. "I don't live here. I actually just arrived three days ago." Yuuki let a small sigh slip through her nose. He wouldn't know much about the castle then, she assumed. "What's your name?" He asked. "From your clothes you don't look like you're from here."

"My name is Fujiwara Yuuki," she replied. "I actually came from a faraway place. You most likely haven't heard of it."

"It's nice to meet you, Yuuki," He said. "Oh," he perked up, seeing the cat wander off. "Uh-the cat, I gotta go! See you later!"

She smiled as she watched him chase the kitten into the woods. He was such a nice boy, but he looked more like a warrior than a kid. As she made her way back to the village, she realized that she didn't actually see very many kids. She saw young people here and there in the villages, but they seemed to be married already. I supposed it's like that in the Feudal Era, you're not a kid for long. With lower life expectancy people did get married and have children at a far younger age. With demons around, though, and no hospitals, it must've been dangerous to have kids. She followed the river back down to a small lake that the village sat next to. She then perked up, noticing Sango kneeling and staring at flowers. "Hey, Sango," she called as she approached.

Sango look over and stood, smiling as she approached. "Hey, Yuuki." She then looked behind her confused. "Where's Miroku?" Bitterly she added, "I thought he would be following you like a dog."

Yuuki shrugged with a sigh, "Yeah, well, he's probably unconscious still."

"What?" She blinked in surprise.

"Where's Shippo?" She hastily asked in return, needing the subject changed.

"Oh, he went to find Kagome and Inuyasha," she replied as she turned back to the flowers. "I thought I would just stare at the flowers for a moment… These were my brother's favorite."

"Oh," she stared at her and then at the flowers sadly. "I see…"

Sango glanced at her, noticing her expression. "I guess everyone told you about my past." She nodded to her regretfully. Sango only smiled back at the flowers as she said, "My brother was so kind, he almost didn't belong in Demon Slayer Village. He didn't like to fight, but he loved animals and flowers."

"He must have been a great little brother." She didn't have siblings herself, but she did love Kagome's brother and other children she met with.

Sango knelt down by the flowers again and said, "You can go on ahead. I'm going to stay here for a little longer."

"Of course," she nodded and then left her to her privacy. She supposed she should find Kagome and explore the village a little more. She found her friend on the bridge, staring down at the water that passed underneath. "Hey, Kagome," she greeted as she approached.

Kagome looked over and became concerned. "Why the long face? You seem upset."

"Huh? Oh," she made a weak smile. "Sango was just telling me about her brother."

"I see," she nodded in understanding. "I can't imagine what it would be like to lose my brother to Naraku… Naraku took Kohaku so that he could try to control Sango."

"That's terrible," she commented, and stared at the water with her. They were silent for a moment. She looked back at her, "I'm sorry, did you say Kohaku?"

"Huh, yeah." She tilted her head. "Why?"

Yuuki stared at her as she wondered how common of a name Kohaku was. "I'll…" She slowly backed away, holding up a finger. "I'll be back."

"Huh?" Kagome watched confused as she ran off. "Yuuki!"

With Tsuzumi Village being close to the castle town, it couldn't be a coincidence, but I have to be sure! It was an insane thought to think that she had just run into Sango's stolen away brother, but it made sense. She hoped that it wasn't for Sango's sake. Yuuki ran back to the hidden clearing where she met him and stopped short, ducking behind a bush. She could see the kitten he rescued wandering into the forest past the wooden fence.

What were the chances that he would still be following the cat? She crouched low and snuck after the cat into the trees. "Huh?" Only she immediately came back out onto a hidden road. Since it was fenced off, she could only assume it was abandoned. Continuing to move forward cautiously she followed the road around a bend, stopping and ducking behind a tree when she spotted Kohaku. He was walking into a man-made opening in the side of the mountain. She waited after he went inside before following him into the cave.

The cave turned out to be a giant abandoned mine. Drips from stalagmites rang clear, so Yuuki was forced to tail Kohaku far back in an attempt to hide her footsteps. She peered at him from behind a corner, watching as he disappeared around another corner. Once she couldn't hear movement, she hurried after him only to come to a crossroads. She frantically looked between her three options, trying to see a sign of which direction he went. Did he lose me on purpose? Did he know I was following him?

"One, two, three, four!" Her head snapped to one of the tunnels, hearing an old man chant, "One, two, three, four!" She ran down the tunnel and found him, picking away at the rock wall. "And I keep digging, but still no gold," he grumbled to himself.

"Excuse me," she said, walking up to the man.

"WHAA!" He spun around and in his fright swung his pick at her. Yuuki went wide eyed and bit a yelp, stumbling backwards and dodging the swing. "Oh, a young lady," he said, calming down. "Sorry, miss, you frightened me a bit." She only blinked at him a few times before regaining composure. "I'm surprised to see someone else on this road. I'm the only one that knows about this secret back road."

"Secret back road?" She questioned, narrowing her eyes. "Would it happen to lead to the castle?" He opened his mouth, but quickly covered it up. "Please, my friends and I are stranded in this town and need to get to the castle."

The old man glowered, not wanting to share the information, but begrudgingly relented. "Well, yes, it is. A secret road originally intended as a mine to find gold. My father was a young lad when he happened upon it's secret." He eyeballed her distrusting. "And who are you? Your clothes are funny. How did you find this place?"

"My name is Yuuki," she replied, and attempted to put on a helpless act. "I'm sorry to disturb you, sir, but my friend went wandering off by himself to find a way to the castle town and I think he got lost. He's a young boy about this tall, brown hair and freckles. Did he come through here?"

"Nope," he relaxed and shook his head. "No one comes through here. Now you should run along, and don't tell no one about this place!"

"Right," she bowed to him, "thank you, and sorry again!" The old man resumed his mining and she walked away with a sigh. He couldn't have gone too far, he was walking fairly slow. She headed back to the crossroads and turned the corner, only to bump into someone. She jumped, startled, and then was even more shocked. "K-Kohaku!"

He was surprised as well. "Yuuki?"

Though her heart was racing, Yuuki mustered a smile. "Kohaku, I was actually looking for you..." Seeing his weapons and outfit, he had to be from a demon slayer village, if how he killed that one demon wasn't proof enough. "I had a question..." She trailed off and narrowed her eyes, watching as his lively brown eyes slowly turned dull and lifeless. The hairs on the back of her neck rose. "Um… Do you have a sister named Sango?"

He didn't respond. Instead he slowly raised his Kusarigama and she stepped back, becoming nervous. "Kohaku?" She questioned. "Kohaku, answer me. Do you know Sango?"

She braced, and he threw his weapon. Yuuki tucked and rolled to the side, springing back to her feet, but wincing at her shoulder. It was still too tender to move around much. He was quick and threw his blade at her again. Her acrobatics skills kicked in and she back flipped away, the blade stabbing into the ground. She sprang off the ground with her hands and landed back on her feet, but cried out and held her arm, screwing her eyes shut. It's too painful! Hearing the cling of his chain she forced her eyes open. The chain flew at her and she tried to move back, but it wrapped around her bad arm and she went wide eyed.

"Kohaku, please!" She grabbed the chain and tried to pull, but he pulled back and harder. He yanked on her arm and her shoulder screamed, forcing her to cry out in pain. She held her own arm and tried to pull back, but her feet were sliding in the damp dirt. "Is it Naraku!? Is he making you do this!?" He stared listlessly on as he reached for the tanto at his hip. Yuuki's eyes went wide, "Kohaku, please!"

"Stop it, Kohaku!" Both Yuuki and Kohaku turned their heads to see Sango flying in, riding Kirara who was in a huge beastly form with giant fangs. Yuuki was in awe at the sight, and then watched as Sango hurled her Hiraikotsu at her brother.

Kohaku was quick, and with a flick of the chain detangled from Yuuki's arm before leaping away, dodging the giant boomerang. "You're useless!" Another woman hissed.

Yuuki knew that voice. She looked over to see Kagura walk out from behind a rock next to Kohaku landing on his feet. She glared, "Kagura."

She smiled coyly from behind her fan. "Well that's a pleasant surprise. You remember me."

Sango caught her weapon and landed next to Yuuki, hopping off of Kirara. Yuuki glared at Kagura holding her throbbing shoulder. "Difficult to forget the bitch's face that almost cut off your arm."

That made her smirk. "Be thankful, girl. If I really wanted to I would have." Yuuki raised her lip in a snarl. She hated that cocky woman. "Now," she closed her fan and pointed it at Sango saying, "Kohaku is going to capture this girl, so you stay back and watch. Don't do anything you'll be sorry for. Kohaku's life is in the balance."

Kirara snarled while Sango only tightened her grip on her weapon, glaring her down. "Witch."

Kagura chuckled from behind her fan looking smug. Kohaku slowly raised his kusarigama as he approached. Yuuki frantically tried to think of a way out knowing they were at a disadvantage. "Get ready." Sango glanced at her, but didn't question as she hopped back onto Kirara. She then ripped her rosary off and swung just as Kohaku threw his blade. The glowing rosary whip parried the metal, and then Yuuki tossed it into the air with a clap. "Bullet Storm!" In a flurry the beads bombarded the cave ceiling between them.

Kagura shouted in frustration as the stone came crumbling down. She summoned her giant feather as Kohaku retreated. "Get on!" Sango shouted over the cave in, and grabbed Yuuki's good arm to drag her onto Kirara's back. Yuuki caught her weapon again and put it on as Kirara flew out of the cave and through the collapsing tunnel.

Kirara flew them safely outside, and they took to the sky at a calm pace. Sango looked back over her shoulder and asked, "Are you all right?"

"Yes," she nodded, "I am. Thank you for saving me."

Sango glared at the ground below in frustration. "Kohaku... Yuuki, I'm so-"

"Don't, please."

She glanced back at her with a guilty expression. "Your arm... he hurt you."

Though Yuuki held her shoulder, she gave her a comforting expression in return, "Sango, don't apologize for that. I would never ask you to fight your brother at the risk of him dying. We got out; we're fine." Relaxing a little she then asked, "Sango, how did you find us anyways? The road to the mine was a secret."

"Well, after I was done looking at the flowers I went to find Miroku to see what happened exactly." Kirara went back to the ground and they dismounted, and Kirara transformed into her smaller form in a flurry of flames. "After he told his side of the story I went to find you to apologize for his vulgar behavior. A young fisherman told me that he saw you disappear around the back side of town." She then frowned and asked, "Why did you go by yourself?"

Yuuki looked away guiltily. "Well… I happened to run into Kohaku before I knew the name of your brother… After Kagome told me I had to find out if he was actually your brother or not. I came alone because I didn't want to raise any alarm in case it was false. I guess it backfired."

"Don't do things by yourself anymore," Sango said and Yuuki saw her sad look. "We're a team, right?" She stared at her. A team? She knew that the five of them were a group, but she didn't consider herself a member really. In her hesitation, Sango smiled and added, "You're important to all of us, Yuuki. It's why we're all helping you get back home. You like us, right?" She did. Yuuki smiled, though a bit bashful, and nodded. Sango nodded in return, "Then let's stick together like a team. Come on, we should head back."

"Let's," Yuuki agreed and the two walked together. "They'll be happy to hear we found a secret back road to the castle."