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

Authors Notes: My mother used to tell me I had a bad habit of injecting humor where it does not belong. I think this chapter proves her right. Thanks to all who read and reviewed. I apologize for the delay. For review responses, check my bio.

Note: thoughts are in italics

Spoiler Warning!

Chapter 6: Temple of Discord

Emerging from the darkness, she steps into the morning light. Her position at the caves opening gives an illustrious view of the valley below. Such beauty, however, is wasted on Kanna. Her dull eyes scan the cliffs in search of someone.

As she stood on the rocky ledge, Kanna's thoughts were of Naraku. He gave birth to her to do his bidding; he created her to cater to his fiendish whims. He was a despicable liar, a diabolical manipulator, a vile concoction of parasitic pestilence. From the moment her opaque eyes opened to his, Kanna knew and accepted this. Of all the minions Naraku produced, she remained the most serviceable, that is… until Kagura.

They were sisters, in spite of their differences, spawned of the same evil.

Kagura – the fiery tempest. Just as passionate to obtain her freedom as her hatred for Naraku. She did not heed Kanna's warning and the result… her demise.

Kanna – the impassive servant. Her objective is to carry out Naraku's plans effectively. She is, after all, the one he entrusted with Onigumo's heart. Therefore, her betrayal will come as a surprise, if ever revealed.

To Kanna, betrayal is not just a word formed in her mind, but one to execute. No emotion spurs this act, her ghostly form has no need of revenge; feels no sense of loss. If she is able to grasp this concept, it is brief, as her psyche will not allow her to dwell on sentiment. She is a nonaggressive demon of obsequious status; to follow orders is her simple purpose.

Kanna is unaware her mind has stimulated a defense mechanism. Her brain sends signals to the temporal lobe to override any command considered a threat to her person. This function serves as a method of self-preservation or internal protection. In actuality, Kanna is now following her own mind and it will not allow her to endanger herself.

These episodes have been frequent since the incident with Kagura, as if her death triggered an alert that Kanna may be next. The young demoness is oblivious to the inner conflict within her as she responds to altered orders, it is the reason she is here now. Gazing into her mirror, it reflects the arrival of the innocent participant.

Kohaku moves with graceful stealth through the trees, keeping to the upper branches to camouflage himself. Kanna has expected his arrival, but he will be surprised to see her. Who is better equipped than the taijiya to seek and gather information? It is one of the reasons Naraku used him; the boy is skilled, clever and performs with the utmost undetectable accuracy.

Once again, commands transmit themselves to Kanna and she slowly makes her way down the cliff side. She is to intercept her former teammate and offer unforeseen assistance. The irony; Naraku's creation now aids in his destruction.

"Ow!" Inuyasha shouts, "What the hell kinda' healin' is this?"

Kagome says nothing; she proceeds to clean and change the bandage on his thigh. Opening a can of antiseptic, she sprays it onto the wound.

"Yeow!" Inuyasha jumps about ten feet in the air. "Ya' tryin' to kill me," he yells. "What is that crap?"

On her knees, Kagome sets back on her heels and glares at him. She is a little rough; her remedy from the future is ineffective and unnecessary, but he deserves to suffer. Inuyasha's injuries are minor and with his rapid healing ability, he will fully recover within hours. After straightening the leg of his hakama, Inuyasha stands, crosses his arms and faces Kagome.

"Ya' got somethin' to say - jus' say it!"

Looking up at him with a mutinous expression, Kagome stays silent. She wants nothing better than to scream her frustration. Inuyasha is too headstrong, too reckless. Her eyes start to mist over; she gets up to repack the medical supplies and to shield the oncoming tears. If she can ever get past the lump in her throat, she plans to tell him off quite thoroughly.

As Inuyasha watches Kagome, the fight goes out of him. He knows she is concerned for his safety, but he wants to end this. He prefers to eliminate Naraku without involving everyone, especially the young miko he has come to care for. Despite what she thinks, he is not on some egotistical crusade for revenge. It may have started out that way, but since meeting the others, he has learned his suffering is not isolated.

Closing the lid on the medicine kit, Kagome starts to leave the hut. She has yet to say anything to the hanyou and gives him a wide berth on her way to the entrance. Inuyasha reaches out and grabs her hand.

"Talk to me, Kagome," he implores, "I hate it when ya' get all quite on me."

Still nothing, but she does not pull away. Inuyasha takes this as a good sign and continues.

"Maybe I shouldn't have gone to Onigumo's cave alone, but ya' know I do things on my own…"

"But, you don't have to!" Kagome finally snaps.

"Will ya' shut up and let me finish!" He tightens his hold on her hand to prevent her leaving. "As I was sayin'…" he pauses to give her an opening, "… I do things on my own, but I know the odds are better if we're all together and I know I'm at my best when you're with me, Kagome."

The young miko's face softens; that is as close to an apology as one will expect from Inuyasha, but it is an apology. A beatific smile appears on Kagome's face and she turns it on the hanyou. He starts to respond with a smile of his own then suddenly… he looks uncomfortable.

"Kagome, what are you thinkin'?" Inuyasha swallows hard.

"You know exactly what I'm thinking." This time, she tightens her hold on his hand. "If you do something this stupid again, I'll say 'that' word so many times… it'll take a week to dig you out."

Sitting under the waterfall, images of Sango foil every attempt I make to meditate. I keep visualizing her large eyes filled with pain and I am responsible. Repeatedly I replay the conversation with Mushin in my head. Although his arguments are sound, I feel my reasons for not confessing my feelings to Sango are also.

Grudgingly, I envy Kouga's candor. He boldly declares his love for Kagome and to anyone within hearing range, especially Inuyasha. Even Kuranosuke had the audacity to announce his feelings for Sango out in the open.

Recalling our time at his castle, I remembered feeling uneasy at Kuranosuke's familiarity with Sango. When he asked for her hand in marriage and stated she was his only love, it was almost my undoing. That was the first time I allowed myself to admit the truth. I was in love with the demon slayer and had been for some time.

While Kuranosuke's proposal revealed my true feelings, Kagome's disastrous attempt to have me admit them left me feeling unworthy. The young miko pointedly compared my lifestyle to that of the young prince. With him, Sango would have a luxurious home, a faithful husband; a life of which she was most deserving. What could I offer her, a wandering, perverted monk with imminent death looming? It was not Kagome's intentions to have me feel this way, but she was right. On hearing, what I thought was Sango's acceptance to Kuranosuke's proposal; I resolved to let her go.

Regardless of the speech I gave Kagome, I could not bear the thought of Sango leaving. I thank Kami and Kohaku everyday that Sango's determination to find her brother brought her back to me. I walked away from Kuranosuke's castle the next day with Sango at my side.

Looking down at my hands, I notice the skin at my fingertips pucker; I have been under the falls for quite a while. Stepping from under the water, I remove my wet clothing. Hachi has left a plain white robe and I slide into its warmth. Gathering my clothes, I decide to seek out Sango, whatever happens I must somehow make amends. I cannot leave this temple nor go into battle until I have set things right.

Turning to descend the rocky stairs, I find Sango staring up at me. She balances a tray in one hand, with the other laid flat against the earthen wall for support. I move to assist her but step back when I notice the look in her eyes. They reflect the same emotion after our tryst in the field of lilies. Her chestnut orbs shimmer with the luminous light of – desire.

"Forgive me, priestess Midoriko-dono," Kikyou speaks humbly to the stalagmite. "I require your assistance yet again."

Kikyou has arrived at the limestone cave, the birthplace of the Shikon no Tama. She cautiously makes her way through the skeletal remains of vanquished demons. Standing in front of the encased figure of Midoriko, Kikyou pays her respects to the legendary priestess.

Upon discovering her miko powers, Kikyou's goal as a child, was to emulate Midoriko's prowess. For centuries, the life and death story of the fallen priestess was told. She and Kaede would listen to countless tales of the priestess battles, but secretly Kikyou always wondered of Midoriko the woman.

Studying the features of the preserved priestess, Kikyou could clearly see her beauty. Did similar thoughts of a normal life… of love and children ever plague Midoriko as they had Kikyou? The insignia on Midoriko's forehead indicated her superior rank as a priestess; therefore, Kikyou doubted she ever experienced such weakness.

"This time, I am I need of your sword, priestess," Kikyou asks kneeling down. "It is essential in an upcoming battle; a battle to repossess your Shikon Jewel." The young miko's voice vibrates off the walls of the cave. "I promise to return it, Midoriko-dono, if I am able."

Kikyou rises and extends her arms reaching for the sword. A blue light radiates from her hands and seems to engulf Midoriko's weapon lying dormant and still within her grasp. The sound of movement behind her interrupts the transfer.

Detecting the presence of demons, Kikyou turns and meets the hostile glare of several cave scavengers. They are dense demons, hoping to locate pieces of the Shikon jewel in a place it is less likely to be.

Withdrawing an arrow, Kikyou prepares her bow. The demons emerge from the shadows and advance on the lone priestess.

Approaching the temple, I consider Mushin-sama's advice. As I sit on the bottom stairs, I reflect upon my relationship with Houshi-sama.

I remembered his unwavering trust after I stole the Tetsaiga from Inuyasha. He expressed sympathy for my plight with Kohaku, requested I stay after deceiving them and vowed to help me rescue my brother from Naraku. On finding the remains of my father and comrades, it was Houshi-sama's determination to return them to my home for proper prayer and burial. The time I returned to my village to repair the Hiraikotsu, he became impatient that I had not returned at the allotted time. He convinced the others to search for me; their prompt arrival saved my life.

Sitting here, I realize there are numerous occasions I can recall Houshi-sama's care and concern; however, is it enough to base a marriage on. Am I the same as Koharu or Shima in his eyes, susceptible to his empty promises that serve as temporary comfort? No… that is not acceptable, I expect the truth; I deserve it. I stand up with purpose, my hands balled into fist. If this proposal is a farce, I have to know.

"I see you've decided to find Miroku."

I look up to see Mushin at the top of the stairs. "He is at the waterfall, Sango-chan," the monk directs me. "Would you mind taking lunch to him while you're at it?"

"Uh… of course I will, Mushin-sama."

Walking rapidly across the temple grounds, I recall every moment of bashing Houshi-sama with the Hiraikotsu or any other reason when he has annoyed me. I want to maintain the energy to confront him, to take the offensive.

I reach the waterfall and climb the steps carved of the rock formation. As I ascend, I focus on what to say to Houshi-sama. Nearing the top, I see him step from under the falls. I stand in shocked silence as he begins to undress. With his back to me, he peels off the kosode and kyahan's to reveal his perfect manly physique.

Unable to tear my eyes from his splendid form, I begin backing down the stairs. I am shaking so hard that the contents of the tray I carry start to rattle. I place my hand on the wall and continue my backward descent.

Houshi-sama covers himself in a robe and turns to the stairs, his indigo eyes widen in surprise at seeing me. As I stare up at him, I notice for the first time his hair is unbound. The ebony locks fall just above his shoulders, framing his face in soft waves. I step forward my eyes intent on his face, but he steps away from me.

Pushing back my errant thoughts and masking the hurt I feel, I paste a smile on my face. Thrusting the tray in front of me, I ask…

"Hungry?"

"How much further is it, Sesshomaru-sama?" Rin is excited at the prospect of spending more time with Kohaku and the miko.

As expected, the taiyoukai does not answer, Jaken speaks instead.

"Stop bothering Sesshomaru-sama with your questions, child," the demon toad says. "We will get there, when we get there!"

Jaken is wondering why Lord Sesshomaru is pursuing this priestess, especially when it deters his tracking down Naraku.

Actually, the taiyoukai is wondering the same. He has a confirmed place and time for the confrontation with Naraku, so why pursue the human. If the miko obtains information to defeat Naraku, it is not necessary to Sesshomaru, who plans to kill him regardless of what Kikyou learns.

It cannot be curiosity, as the taiyoukai will not deign the human woman worth a thought. It did not matter that her stubborn carcass has repeatedly revived to conquer her foe. On the other hand, is it simply the chase, a source of amusement until Naraku reveals himself? Sesshomaru finally opts to go with the obvious, he construes she has lied to him and his pride will not allow such.

Reaching the crossroads, Sesshomaru, Jaken and Rin stop and survey the area. The taiyoukai's nose picks up the scent of both the miko and the boy.

"They have separated," he says more to himself, although the others hear.

"Which road do we take, master?" Jaken asks, looking in both directions.

"We follow the woman; the boy is of no consequence."

Sitting atop Au-un, Sesshomaru's statement elicits a pout from Rin, but she stays silent. As the group heads in Kikyou's direction, Rin glances over her shoulder and down the path, Kohaku has taken.

Miroku and Sango sit a short distance away from the waterfall, sharing the lunch provided by Mushin. Other than the usual pleasantries, neither talks much. Miroku stares off into the distance and Sango is intent on the contents of her teacup. Their awkward moment has set back their determination to resolve their issues. With the silence wearing thin, surprisingly, Sango's bold question opens the discussion.

"Why did you ask me to marry you, Houshi-sama?"

Miroku head snaps around at her question, he can only stare while quickly trying to formulate a sufficient answer. Unable to think of anything, the monk reverts to habits of old. With his hentai expression in place, he responds.

"I think it's fairly obvious," he says, his hand inching closer to her bottom.

"Stop that!" Sango snaps and slaps at his hand. "This is serious, I need to know."

Miroku appears to give this some thought. In truth, he feels backed into a corner. He wants things back as they were, not necessarily tell her how he feels… not yet anyway. Leaning back in the grass, the monk appears nonchalant.

"Is something wrong, Sango?" He decides to put her on the defensive. "Are you trying to withdraw your hand?"

For a second, Sango is flustered. "T-that's n-not what I…" she stammers. Suddenly, she recognizes the monk's ploy. "Why do you do that?" Sango practically hisses. "This is not a game, Houshi-sama. We are talking about the rest of our lives."

That is a punch in the gut to Miroku. How much of his life is left to him; how much time does he have? That feeling of dread he has been fighting, rises again and touches him to the core. With it comes an uncharacteristic wave of anger and, unfortunately, it is directed at Sango.

"Why did you accept?" Miroku lashes out, surprising Sango. Stunned, she can only listen as he continues.

"Did you feel sorry for me, the poor monk with the curse? Or are you willing to marry me out of gratitude?"

By this time, Miroku has risen and is standing over Sango, who is speechless. Never having seen him this upset, she has no idea how to respond. His face is serene, but his eyes are smoldering; his blue eyes so dark, they seem to match his hair.

Not wanting to be at a disadvantage, Sango quickly stands. She is not afraid of him, but his countenance is disturbing. Miroku stands before her and strokes his chin in a contemplating gesture; this serves to increase Sango's unease.

"Houshi-sama?" Sango begins uncertainly, "Surely you know I would never…"

"No… you wouldn't; would you?" he asks with a smirk. Moving forward he circles her and does a slow appraisal. From behind, he whispers in her ear.

"Maybe… it's your desire for me that had you accept, eh Sango-chan."

As he speaks, she feels his hand lightly skim her bottom. Deciding not to slap him, instead, she simply steps away.

"I see you're not yourself, Houshi-sama; just forget it, we'll discuss this some other time." With this said, Sango starts to walk away.

"Running away… again?" Miroku says with a humorless chuckle. "When it comes to intimacy, you can be quite evasive."

Sango stops mid-stride. From shock to anger, from anger to rage she turns on the monk.

"How dare you… you…" Sango practically growls. "I'd just assume get intimate with… with Inuyasha!"

At this, Miroku starts to laugh. The taijiya stands clenching and unclenching her fists, not to be bested she throws out another name.

"Or… Kouga!"

Miroku laughs harder. Sango frantically searches her mind to think of someone else; she chooses the only other person that has shown her favor.

"Well, how about Kuranosuke!"

The laughter stops abruptly. Having hit the mark, with a smug nod Sango turns towards the temple. She takes two steps before Miroku whirls her around to face him. With a tight grip on her upper arms, the monk is magnificent in his anger. His unbound hair flows freely and his eyes flash like two brilliant sapphires.

"Kuranosuke is it?" he says in a soft threat. "Then by all means, let me return you to him properly."

Miroku pulls Sango to him, crushing her to him and imprisoning her arms. He wraps his hands in her hair, tilting her head back. His lips capture hers in a searing kiss.

If Miroku thinks this is a punishment, he is mistaken. In her anger, Sango will not be the victim; she gives as good as she receives. At some point during their passionate exchange, the momentum changes for the young couple. The kiss softens; Miroku loosens his hold allowing Sango to bury her hands in his hair. Heated words from moments ago are forgotten.

Miroku's anger dissipates as he deepens the kiss.

"Tell me you love me, Sango. Whatever my fate, that alone will make it bearable."

Sango's anger has also wanes and she expresses her need by pressing into him.

"Tell me you love me, Houshi-sama. We are destined to be, I've been so afraid… until now."

Ending the kiss, Miroku pulls Sango close. She wraps her arms around him and they hold each other. Each is waiting for the other to say the necessary words to end their suffering. Finally, Miroku pulls back and gazes longingly into Sango's eyes.

"This feels good, doesn't it?" The monk asks, brushing strands of hair from the taijiya's flushed face.

"Hm," she responds, attempting to snuggle back into his arms. Miroku holds her steady, keeping a space between them. Sango's confusion is clear, however, she understands he has something to say, so she waits.

The monk continues to gaze deep into her eyes, trying to gauge her feelings for him. He can only read expectancy, confusion and passion, but that is not enough. The next words out of his mouth are ones he never expects to say.

"Desire can be wonderful," Miroku says, his voice thick with emotion, "but without love, it has no meaning." Releasing her, he continues, "I'm sorry, Sango; I'm afraid I can't have one without the other."

The impact of his words settles on Sango's heart. He is saying he desires her, but he does not love her. His eyes reflect his honesty, this is what she asked for, the truth.

"I… I see," Sango says, stepping away. Inside she feels numb, but she will leave with her dignity intact.

Miroku watches the display of emotions cross her face. It appears she does not share his feelings, but his will never change. If possible, they will remain friends. Unexpectedly, he has an overwhelming need to express his fears.

"Sango, in three days we will face Naraku," his voice is urgent, "I might not return…"

"Yes… you will," Sango's voice is sincere as she cuts him off.

"You sound so sure of that," Miroku sounds perplexed.

"How can I not?" Sango sends a small, yet hurtful smile his way. "You've only proclaimed it since the day we met. I have no doubts you will survive and thanks to you, Houshi-sama, I actually believe I will too."

Miroku inhales sharply, he never realized her faith in him. As Sango continues talking, she surprises him yet again.

"I've always wondered why you continue to call the 'Kazaana' a curse," she says almost to herself. Sango looks over in the direction of the grave of Miroku's father. "I guess what I mean is… well, look at all the good you've done; all the lives you've saved with it. That must count for something, right."

Miroku is pleasantly surprised at the role reversal; Sango offering words of wisdom and comfort? He falls in love all over again; how can he even think to let this woman go?

"We'll I'd better go." Sango comes out of her trance. "If I hurry, I can make Kaede's village before dark."

"You're leaving me?" Miroku has no idea how ironic that sounds at this time.

"I think its best, Houshi-sama. We'll see each other at the battle."

"What of after?" The monk blocks her path to the temple. "Will you return to... to Kuranosuke?"

Her hand rose as quick as her anger; the impact lands Miroku on his butt.

"That… is the final slap you will ever receive from me! You don't know when to stop; do you, Houshi-sama?" Sango's voice trembles, "You have no right to ask such things! I have not asked whom you love! Turning away from him, her voice becomes wistful, "Even so, to answer you question, I do not plan to go to Kuranosuke or anyone else for that matter. Being in love with you, Houshi-sama, has been both exhausting and exhilarating; I think I need a some time alone." She turns running to the temple and away from Miroku.

Pure shock holds the monk in place.

"She does love me!"

He continues to sit there, holding his cheek as Sango's form disappears into the temple. Miroku rises with a renewed vigor and looks down at his gloved hand with a fresh perspective. With a prayer to Kami and a request of guidance from his father, the monk makes slow, determined strides towards the temple. His goal is to reclaim his life, his love and his woman.

To be continue…

Authors Notes: I hope you enjoy this chapter it's a bit longer than I anticipated. Lots of changes and alterations made. Note to Iggy: I bought the book, but now I have to decipher it and regroup or revamp (whatever). I did not want to delay any longer. So… please review and point out 'all' errors. I trust your input.

Ja ne!