Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or any of the characters. This is only a fanfic.

Authors Notes: Thanks to everyone who read and reviewed, responses are posted on my bio. For some reason, Sango's part was easier this time around. Miroku's part gave me quite a bit of trouble though. I know what I wanted to say, but did not project it very well.

FYI: Imootosan means little sister and when I refer to Sango as 'one precious piece', you can refer to chapter one for an explanation. Read and enjoy!

Spoiler Warning!

Chapter 5: Monk Mediation

Feet first, I drop into the abyss. Plunging into darkness, I am not afraid. Instantly, small fragments of light surround me, resembling a star lit sky on a celestial horizon.

Virtual air rushes up to greet me, my body slicing through during the quick descent. I spread my limbs as if I am free falling; formed winds tug at my clothes. Rapid changes in atmosphere cause my ears to pop as I surrender to the void.

Halfway through, imagined fingers jerk me upwards; I hover for a second before continuing at a slower velocity. I feel weighted, as if a force from above compels me down. I sense, rather than see, my approach to the bottom. For a brief moment, I levitate, before my feet touch the solid earth of the 'Bone Eaters' Well'.

Hoisting the backpack up, I then use my feet to push my upper body out and over the side of the well. Swinging my legs over, I sit briefly on the edge to catch my breath. Traveling between eras is strange and exhilarating. No matter how many times I make this journey, its method is still a mystery.

I look around the dense area; it is early, the air is crisp and the grass moist from the morning dew.

"3 days to go"

I heave the backpack over my shoulder and head to Kaede's village. Striding along, I think of what to say to Inuyasha. Actually, I am a little surprised he did not come after me. For him to show up, rush, and berate me is his usual style. After a hot bath last night, the bed looked so inviting, I just could not resist.

"Kagome!" Shippo jumps out of nowhere. "You're back!"

"Shippo!" I laugh as the little kitsune hops in my arms. "Have you been behaving yourself?"

"I have, but not Inuyasha."

"Oh, yeah," pursing my lips, I continue unperturbed. "What has he done now?"

I can see him now, harassing poor Shippo and Kaede in my absence. The kitsune's next words take me by surprise, although I should have expected this.

"He went to Onigumo's cave last night, all by himself!" Shippo confesses.

"What!"

"He got injured too," the fox demon emphasizes, "and he… whoa!"

"Hold on Shippo!" I make a mad dash to the village and to Inuyasha's side.

"How long have they been like this, Hachi?" Mushin inquires.

The tanuki looks distressed. Watching Master Miroku and Lady Sango, one would never think them engaged.

Leaving the Taijiya village, Hachi is Miroku's mode of transportation and Sango rides Kirara alone. There is no conversation between them, or anyone else for that matter. Sango keeps her eyes averted or straight ahead, Miroku keeps his closed and appears in constant meditation.

"Since last night, Mushin-sama," Hachi answers, "they have not spoken two words to each other.

"Hm!" Deep in thought, Mushin gets up in search of Miroku.

He heads in the direction of the storerooms where Miroku has been most of the morning. Shown a room on arrival, Lady Sango has yet to come out.

Standing in the entrance Mushin watches Miroku. He has no idea what transpired between the young couple, but he refuses to allow his ward to lose this chance at happiness. It did not matter if lasted a day; the young monk deserved it.

Living a hopeless existence since birth, the young man has grasped only moments of superficial pleasures throughout his life. Mushin has contributed to these moments on more than one occasion. Now Miroku has friends, not brief acquaintances and a woman he cares for deeply.

"You have been here all morning, son," hearing Mushin enter, Miroku looks up from reading.

"Well… yes, I did not finish reviewing the scrolls and we don't have much time left," the younger monk replies.

"I just don't want you to forget about Sango. You two should be spending time together; maybe show her around the temple." Mushin suggests.

"No fear of that, Mushin-sama. I can no more forget about Sango than I can forget to breath," Miroku looks sullen, but attempts a smile.

"I'm glad to hear that, however, I'm sure a certain young lady will love to hear it also."

"No!" Miroku says vehemently, "Not yet!"

Taken aback by this unusual display of emotion, Mushin awaits the remaining explanation he knows will follow.

"Maybe in three days I'll tell her… if I survive."

Mushin cannot believe what he is hearing. He will not adhere to the lack of confidence in the young monk's voice.

"Well… what if you're not with us in three days?" Mushin counters. "I think this young woman has a right to know what your feelings are."

"Sango knows… " before Miroku can finish the older monk interrupts.

"Does she?" Mushin inquires. "Does she know 'why' you sacrifice your life countless times to save hers? Does she know 'why' you feel pain and guilt when words of comfort are all you can offer? Does she know 'why' her vengeance has become your cause?"

Miroku did not respond to these questions, nor did Mushin expect him to. His asking is devised to make the young monk think.

"Despite your reputation with women and your occasional indulgences;" Mushin persists, "does she know 'why' you have practiced restraint regarding her?"

A slight blush appears on Miroku's cheeks and he hurriedly turns his back. He is not quick enough… Mushin comprehends its meaning. It is as he suspected, Miroku has found his 'one precious piece' in Sango. Realizing this he changes tactic.

"You are fortunate to have chosen such a strong woman."

"I won't do it, Mushin-sama," Miroku shakes his head. "I won't subject her to my death just because I feel she can handle it! If we manage to save Kohaku, Sango can go on with her life… without me. She has been through enough; I will not oppress her further! I won't repeat my father's mistakes!"

"You-are-not-your-father!"

Mushin slams his fist on the table, knocking the scrolls to the floor. Miroku looks up in surprise. The older monk is visibly fighting for control, his body stiff and unyielding. Mushin's eyes close, remembering Miroku's father.

"Unfortunately, I have the privilege of knowing both your parents well; I am sorry that you do not remember them as I do. He and your mother lived, loved and they both loved you. Where is the mistake in that, Miroku?"

"You have managed to surpass your father's endeavors in pursuit of ending the Kazaana's curse. Your mother, although beautiful and kind, is not Sango. So how do you compare? Your mother knew of the curse and its implications to their future. She chose to be with your father, she chose to bear his child. Your father allowed her those choices and they were happy, if just for a while. But, that's more than I can say for you!"

"You are deliberately denying Sango access to your true feelings," Mushin continues. "No offense, son, but for someone of your intellect… that is quite a stupid move."

Miroku just stands there, taking the assault of words with his head lowered. Finally, he addresses his mentor.

"No disrespect, Mushin-sama," he says with a deep bow, "It's easy for you to say, you're not the one marrying Sango."

"From the look of things, my boy," Mushin states in a parting shot, "neither will you."

Kikyou and Kohaku leave the youkai's camp early. Rin is still asleep, having stayed up late dominating their conversation. That one is full of inquisitive energy, an intelligent child. Kikyou still bears the semblance of a smile thinking of the little girl.

"You enjoyed your time with Rin, did you not?" Kohaku asks, noticing her expression.

"Yes… yes I did," the miko replaces the stoic mask.

"You have a soft spot for children eh, Kikyou-sama," the taijiya teases.

Kikyou looks over at Kohaku, the corner of her mouth tilts slightly.

"I think Rin has a soft spot for you, Kohaku," the miko teases back. Covering her mouth to smother her husky laugh, she recalls Kohaku could barely move an inch before the young girl would sidle up next to him.

The slight catch in his voice is what gives way he knows what she is implying. Having to conceal his thoughts and emotions from Naraku for so long, Kohaku has developed his own brand of stoicism.

"Yeah… she is a little chatty thing, like an annoying imootosan; I wonder if I bothered Anu-ue that much when I was that age?" Kohaku says tapping his chin.

Rendered speechless, Kikyou can only look at her travel companion and shake her head.

The two approach a crossroads and as planned, its time they separate. They each have a job to do and agree to meet up later.

Kikyou grabs Kohaku by the shoulders and turns him to face her. "Watch yourself," she cautions. "Don't let your guard down."

Kohaku winces slightly and Kikyou notices the tight hold she has on the boy. She releases him, looking embarrassed.

"Hurry back," she snaps, attempting to put things back in perspective. "We have much to do and little time."

Walking away, she does not see Kohaku's knowing smile and his lips move in a silent, "Take care."

Unbeknownst to the other occupants of the temple, Sango and Kirara have fled the confines of their room long ago. Although she enjoys her privacy, seclusion is not to her liking.

The temple grounds are beautiful and well maintained. The taijiya and her youkai companion have taken an unguided tour. One of the highlights for her is the waterfall; it is an exquisite addition to an already beautiful temple. The last few occasions, there was no opportunity to enjoy the view. With Kirara frolicking about, she can now take the time and pay homage to Houshi-sama's father.

Kneeling in the center of the large crater, Sango lays flowers and presses her palms together in prayer. This is where Mushin finds her.

The monk stands back, not approaching until she folds her hands in her lap.

"Sango-chan," Mushin greets and takes a seat beside her. "You have led this old man on a merry chase; I have looked all over for you."

"I'm sorry, Mushin-sama," her brown eyes widening. "I didn't mean… "

No… no, it's all right child." The monk waves away her explanation. "I am hoping you can convince Miroku to take a break, he has been pouring over those scrolls for hours now."

"I don't want to disturb him," Sango says softly.

They were both silent, each caught up in their own thoughts. Mushin wonders how to reach out to this young woman. Sango, not much a conversationalist, wonders how to ask the monk a few questions. Speaking simultaneously, they both opt for the direct approach.

"What were…?" Sango starts.

"Do you…?" Mushin begins.

"Oh! You first." They both say in unison.

Sango starts to laugh, a soft dulcet sound and Mushin looks at her in wonder. This persona… this is what Miroku fights so hard to reveal. It is almost like looking at a different woman. Eyes sparkling and cheeks flushed, Sango is truly lovely. Shaking his head to clear it, Mushin continues.

"You begin Sango-chan."

"Um… what were Houshi-sama's parents like?"

With a smile, Mushin takes a deep breath and launches into the tale of Miroku's lineage. He reveals the history of the 'Kazaana' and its affect on the family. He explains how Miroku, his father and grandfather, vowed to live each day as if it were the last. Miroku's grandmother only produced an heir to continue the pursuit to end the curse. However, Miroku's mother loved his father, but was the first of the two to pass away following her sons birth.

"Miroku's father was a different man after that," Mushin states. "He felt cheated of his already short-lived happiness. He focused entirely on pursuing Naraku, until the 'Kazaana' claimed him."

Sango is silent during the narrative and seems pensive afterwards.

"Now, young lady, it's my turn to ask a question." Mushin interrupts her thoughts.

"Oh… well, all right."

"Do you love Miroku, Sango-chan?"

The taijiya did not respond; she sits perfectly still, eyes focused elsewhere. With every second that goes by Mushin loses hope.

"Hai," she speaks softly, "I love him with all that I am."

Mushin releases a breath he is not aware of holding. He waits a moment, allowing Sango time to accept to her admission.

"Please, don't tell him Mushin-sama," whispers Sango.

"I believe that's for you to do, my dear," the monk answers.

"What if… what if he doesn't feel the same? I won't accept his pity!"

Mushin turns to Sango, looks her in the eye, his face serious.

"I want you to reflect on every encounter, every conversation and every moment spent with Miroku," he pauses for effect, "think hard and then see how you feel."

He stands and looks down at her, his jovial expression back in place.

"Miroku informs me, you were one the best demon slayers in your village." Mushin continues and Sango looks puzzled. "So… I assume fighting is a natural part of your existence." Sango gives an affirmative nod before he goes on, "I am told you fight to avenge your father and comrades. You fight to reclaim your brother from Naraku's clutches. Through your travels, you fight to protect others. Is that not so?"

"Hai, Mushin-sama," Sango says passionately, "and I won't stop; it's what I live for!"

"Then also fight to be happy," the monk says strongly, "no matter how brief or elusive it may seem. You have fought at Miroku's side; you might consider fighting and living 'for' him."

Sesshomaru arrives back to an empty camp, with the exception of Jaken. Rin has gone in search of food under the protection of Au-un. The taiyoukai approaches Jaken, who is trembling under his fierce gaze. The demon toad falls to his knees and lunges into an explanation.

"My apologies, Sesshomaru-sama, b-but the miko and the boy have left already," he stutters. "I was unable to prevent them leaving as you instructed."

Truthfully, he was asleep when Kikyou and Kohaku left, but he is not about to admit that.

Sesshomaru previously knows of everything going on. He knows Rin is at a stream close by, attempting to catch her breakfast. He knows the miko and the boy have managed to elude his vassal; only a hint of their scent lingers in the air. He also knows Jaken is lying, but he will deal with that later.

"Damned priestess! How dare she withhold information! "

Appearing indifferent, Sesshomaru is unaware his eyes reflect animosity when crossed. Jaken, however, knows that look well and is fortunate he is not to be the recipient of Sesshomaru's wrath.

"We're leaving Jaken," the taiyoukai announces.

The demon toad hastens to do his masters bidding, his relief obvious that Sesshomaru has other things on his mind. As he calls to Rin, he thinks…

"That priestess is a goner once Sesshomaru catches up with her."

To be continued…