Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha; this is only a fanfic.
Authors Notes: Hi guys! February was a tough month and I just realized last week, I have not updated for a month. I was aiming for a release by Valentines Day, but… oh well!
The flu had me down and out for a week. I spiked a temperature of 101.2 degrees; my brain was mush. That's my excuse for, uh… I mean, my explanation for any grammatical errors in this chapter (yeah, that's sounds good).
This is another long chapter. I worked like crazy to edit this over the weekend, but decided after a month's interim, you guys deserved the uncut version. After a brief proofreading (and I do mean brief), here is chapter 12. Please read, I hope you enjoy and please leave a review.
SPOILER WARNING
Chapter 12: The Quiet Before the Storm
Standing on the veranda and wrapped in each other arms, Miroku and Sango watch the last shadows of night recede, chased away by the radiance of the newly risen sun.
One more day
Long after the dojo is bathed in daylight, the couple stay locked in an embrace. Neither speaks, words are not necessary. For once, Sango is optimistic. She has found love and happiness here at the temple, a happiness she once thought elusive. She has also found hope at the little dojo at the edge of the bamboo forest… hope for a future with Kohaku and her beloved houshi. This is the first time since the death of her father and comrades, she allows herself to believe in something.
Snuggling deeper into her husband's chest, her eyes still on the horizon, she reflects on her discovery last night.
She awoke to Houshi-sama's body twitching uncontrollably and incoherently mumbling in his sleep. She gathered him close, stroking his hair as he relaxed back into a peaceful slumber. She had not realized his fears, as he was so good at concealing them. For months, he had voluntarily reassured her. Even when she avoided or rejected him, he maintained a silent watch over her. He was simply… there. Now it was her turn to shoulder the weight, she would be strong for them both.
Miroku, always the realist, looks over the grounds of the dojo; he cannot help but wonder what tomorrow holds. Will Kami smile down on them or will the prayers he offers daily go unanswered?
He feels Sango burrow closer and he tightens his arms around her. Looking down, Miroku tucks a wayward strand of hair behind her ear. The last two days have been heaven; Sango has filled the void in his heart. If it is his destiny to die tomorrow, he can leave this earth a happy man. However, Sango will live. If he has to cheat the gods to accomplish this feat or even at the cost of his own life… she will live.
"Sango?"
"Yes, Houshi-sama," she responds, tilting her head back to look at him.
"I think it's best not to inform Inuyasha and the others of our marriage just yet," the monk states.
"You are right, of course," she says with a sigh, "although, I want to shout it to the world, it will only heighten the others concern for us. We cannot have them distracted during battle. We will tell them when this is over."
"I'm glad you understand, Sango," Miroku sounds subdued.
The taijiya stares intensely into her husband's blue eyes as she challenges, "I understand you more than you know."
It is not her words that surprise him, but the manner in which she speaks them. Is she able to read him that easily? The next words confirm her awareness.
"It's all right to be afraid, Houshi-sama," Sango clutches him tightly as he tries to move away, "but, please… don't let the fear consume you, as it did your father."
"You… you know about the connection between my family's emotions and the Kazaana?"
"It came to me yesterday, while I rested. Your father poured his heart out in those scribes. There was such loneliness and despair in his words," the taijiya continues. "After facing Naraku the final time, maybe he felt he had failed because he was unable to defeat him. With that and the loss of your mother, maybe he felt he could no longer protect you. His fear only enhanced the Kazaana's energy and both consumed him."
"You have to maintain control, Houshi-sama; you can't let fear, anger or any negative emotions overpower you. You must not give into it."
The monk is silent as the taijiya's words sink in, her assumptions were correct.
"I came to the same conclusion, but I did not want to think my father's quest was a failure… to think of 'him' as a failure."
"No!" Sango wails. "You can't possibly believe that! He did not fail! The odds were against him, that's all! He was only one man and he didn't know Naraku the way we do."
"We have discovered a lot during our travels, we know Naraku's history… we know what drives him. We know things your father did not, so we are better prepared. You have Inuyasha and the others on your side and… and you have me, Houshi-sama."
The expression of love is in her passionate speech, yet again, she avoids the words. Pulling her back into his arms, Miroku can only smile. The tables have turned; he will now rely on the taijiya's strength… her faith.
"Thank you, Sango, I needed to hear that. Ones clarity can get distorted when dealing with your own family."
"Yes," the taijiya says with a sheepish smile, "I can be accused of that." Miroku laughs aloud and Sango snuggles closer, enjoying the rumbling sensations emanating from his chest. The two stand together a little longer and then with a sigh, the monk releases her.
"Come, Sango… it's time to go."
Tomorrow will be the end of this half-life.
Finally, the sword had accepted her, but the transition was difficult. The ancient priestess Midoriko was a trained warrior, however, Kikyou was not. Not only had she transferred the swords power, she also had to learn to wield the weapon. During the exchange, the sword became lighter to accommodate Kikyou's needs.
Now she could brandish Midoriko's weapon as easily as her bow and arrows. It took a lot of practice, but she felt she had finally mastered it. The priestess did not know her newly acquired skills would soon be tested.
Heading towards Totousai's, Kikyou increases her pace. She does not take Sesshomaru's threat to leave her lightly. Hurrying, the priestess thinks about what she has learned of the taiyoukai's past.
He appears to live a lonely existence, but unlike her, his is by choice. His distaste for humans is obvious, as his animosity for Inuyasha. However, the taiyoukai is probably unaware he makes exceptions; Kikyou's presence here is one of them. The conversation with Totousai reveals why Sesshomaru is… who he is.
Without warning, the taiyoukai's aura assails Kikyou's senses. The sensation feels aggressive and the priestess responds in kind. She is able to draw her sword and block Sesshomaru's incoming strike, the swords ringing as they clash together. Weapons locked and holding positions, they glare at each other.
"Have you achieved your goal, priestess?" he asks the same question from the night before.
"Yes," the priestess snaps through gritted teeth, trying to push against the pressure of his sword.
"Really?" the taiyoukai smirks. "Then show me."
Sesshomaru breaks contact and withdraws, only to charge again. Kikyou barely evades a downward thrust as she jumps backwards. His movements are so fast they are just a blur to the naked eye; therefore, she relies on following his aura. Closing her eyes, the priestess manages to parry blows and avoid hits from his sword as she backs away.
"Stop running and attack me!" orders Sesshomaru.
Eyes still closed Kikyou switches to the offense. She charges him with inexperienced, but graceful swings, lunging after his aura. When the priestess locks swords with Sesshomaru, the impact sends tremors up her arm and quickly saps her strength. Suddenly, the taiyoukai's aura disappears.
With her sword poised to ward off a strike, Kikyou frantically searches her senses for his aura. Opening her eyes, she resumes a visual search. Turning each way, there is still no sign of him. A tugging sensation in her hair has her wheeling around; she comes face to face with Sesshomaru. Moving back a few paces, the priestess leaves room to continue their sparring, but he only stands there, assessing her.
"Quick reflexes, good perception and you are quite agile, but that's not enough," the taiyoukai tells her. "Your arm is weak and this is no dance, priestess. Is it your intention to look good in your defeat?"
With a toss of his silver mane, he turns on his heel, preparing to leave.
"Wait," Kikyou says, breathing heavy from the exertion. "How did you… how were you able to hide your aura?"
"Don't concern yourself with things that have nothing to do with you," he throws over his shoulder. "Worry about improving your skills, priestess. I will extend my courtesy until the afternoon and test you again; however, I do not plan to hold back next time." With that said, he continues down the path.
Sitting on a boulder, Totousai watches Sesshomaru's approach. He has witnessed the lesson the taiyoukai bestows on the priestess. Treading on dangerous ground, the demon forger cannot help but taunt his friend's eldest son.
"It is generous of you, Sesshomaru, to extend her some time, but stop trying to scare the child." Then he mumbles, "It's a waste of time, if you ask me."
The taiyoukai cuts Totousai a hostile glare before continuing down the path.
Inuyasha, with the Tetsaiga slung over his shoulder, investigates the area around the village. The hanyou grows impatient for Naraku's arrival and the gathering demons have him anxious. He has promised Kagome and Kaede he will not blast them, but just one false move…
"They're only spectators," a voice says from above, "I don't think you'll have to worry about them, at least for now."
Looking up into the trees, Inuyasha spots Kohaku sitting astride one of the larger branches.
"I knew I caught a whiff of your scent," the hanyou grumbles. "Where is Kikyou?"
"I expect her to arrive soon," Kohaku informs him. "And… Ane-ue?"
"She went back to your village, but that was days ago," Inuyasha exaggerates. "She should have been back by now." Fuming about the late arrival, the hanyou secretly blames the monk; he best have a good explanation for their delay.
When Kohaku does not respond, Inuyasha looks up again at the silent boy. Kohaku's expression is melancholy as he remembers his home. It is times like this the young taijiya wishes for complete oblivion again. Closing his eyes to the pain, he experiences a strong desire to see his sister. There are things he must say to her and he may not have another chance. Once she arrives, he will seek her out.
Inuyasha is also silent, allowing the boy his memories. He can tell that under different circumstances, Kohaku probably would not have pursued the life of a demonslayer. Naraku has sorely misused the boy to further his diabolical goals; however, this only makes Kohaku more determined to avenge his father, sister and comrades.
"The demons gathering are not all hostile, Inuyasha-san," the taijiya begins. "Some eagerly await Naraku's defeat. He has preyed on and drained the powers of the most prominent youkai in this region. His minions, he eliminates once they are of no further use to him, just like… Kanna."
The hanyou's eyes widen on hearing this, with a grunt he mumurs, "That bastard." He wants to ask what occurred, but refrains after seeing Kohaku's pained look.
"If Naraku wins, I fear humans and demons alike will suffer the same fate." The taijiya stares unseeingly over the valley, his young face somber.
"Hah!" Inuyasha smirks and Kohaku's head swivels in his direction. "That ain't gonna happen. He's goin' down tomorrow; no doubt about it," the hanyou has a triumphant gleam in his eye.
Inuyasha's deliverance is not as calm or intense as Sesshomaru's, but he is just as cocky as his brother. Looking down on the hanyou, Kohaku smiles at his exuberance.
"Well now… aren't we the confident one," the taijiya smothers a laugh.
"Look here you…" Inuyasha turns to give the boy a tongue-lashing, only to find him gone. "Damn it!"
After discovering their leader gone, Ginta and Hakkaku seek out Ayame in her dwelling. The she-wolf understands their anger and confusion as they each vent their frustration. However, this business about following Kouga is where she draws the line. The moment Hakkaku mentions it; Ayame loses her temper.
"You will not!" the she wolf-snaps, as they turn to leave the cave. Her voice stops them cold. "You will not…" she reiterates, "… go after him!"
Hakkaku is quiet, but Ginta demands a reason. "Why not, Ayame? If we leave now, we can make it in time; can't we Hakkaku?"
Ginta turns and appeals to his friend, Hakkaku nods in agreement. Reading the determination in their eyes, Ayame decides to tell them the truth.
"Kouga did not want you to follow him; he wanted you to stay here."
"But… why?" Ginta sputters.
"You two are the last of his clan, it is your duty to continue the ways and traditions of your tribe," Ayame chooses her words carefully. "He asked that you remain here and grandfather and I gave our consent. I understand how you feel, but this is for the best."
Ginta's shoulders slump in defeat, but Hakkaku's body remains ramrod straight with his eyes lowered to the ground. The wolf is unaware that his body language speaks volumes to Ayame. With a sense of unease, the she-wolf continues.
"As your leader, Kouga did what he thought was right. I can't imagine either of you going against his wishes." That line is delivered strictly for Hakkaku's benefit.
Both comrades say nothing. Ginta turns to leave; he appears in a daze as Hakkaku's stiff form moves to follow.
"Hakkaku," Ayame calls out, "another moment, please."
He turns to face her again as Ginta slowly exits the cave. Locking him in place with an intense green stare, she decides not to placate him; simply make her point.
"I have a good idea what's going on in your mind, but…" she shakes her. "… I do not want to have you watched or restrained. I need you to accept this. I loved him, Hakkaku, and I let him go. You have to do the same."
"I made a promise to Kouga; I'm heart and honor bound to keep it. I will not break that promise for you or anyone. Do I make myself clear?" Ayame ends on a threatening note.
It is not until Hakkaku raises his head that the she-wolf realizes her success. His eyes reflect his resignation to stay. Sadly, Ayame watches him leave the cave. Sitting alone, she releases the breath she is holding. Suddenly, a sense of loss overwhelms her; she finally gives in to the sensation and allows the tears to flow.
"Look!" Sango points in the direction of Kaede's village.
Atop Kirara, she and Miroku stare in awe at the number of youkai gathered in the area. The taijiya automatically reaches for her weapon, but Miroku's hand closes over hers.
"Wait, Sango," the monk says, "look over there." He nods to the center of the village. The occupants are going about their usual duties and no one appears alarmed. Standing in the midst of the activity… is Inuyasha.
Sango steers the youkai cat in his direction and they land among the crowd. Miroku alights as Inuyasha marches towards them with determined strides.
"It's about damned time; what the hell took you so long?"
Before the monk thinks about his actions, he wraps an arm about Sango's waist and lifts her from Kirara's back. The taijiya's eyes widen in shock, as she is hauled against the monk's body.
It was a natural act; a man assisting his wife, only no one here knew that. Only a few hours ago, it was the 'the monk' who mentioned discretion.
Feigning outrage, Sango slaps Miroku soundly and stomps off in a mock huff. "Pervert!" she adds for good measure. Behind her, the taijiya hears Inuyasha mumble, "Serves ya' right!" Shaking his head slowly, the hanyou glares at Miroku, "You'll never change."
Sango looks back with an apologetic glance to her husband, only to find him grinning like a fool. It is easy to follow his lead when he acts this way; she tries to keep her own lips from twitching in response.
"Sango-chan… you're back!" She turns to see Kagome running to her, with Shippo in tow. "What took you so long?" she mimics Inuyasha. "We were worried about you two."
Clasping the miko's hands and then tousling Shippo's hair, Sango gives them a bright smile. Kagome is taken aback by the rarity, she recalls only a few occasions when they have been graced with it.
"Er…" Kagome begins, "… you look well rested."
The monk can sense the taijiya is bursting to tell the miko her news. Steering the conversation to safer topics, he interrupts the girls to address the hanyou.
"What's going on, Inuyasha?" the monk looks across the valley to the horde of demons. "Why aren't they attacking?"
"They are here to witness the battle, Houshi-dono," Kaede walks forward. Miroku and Sango both bow to the older miko. "Good afternoon, Kaede-sama," they say in unison.
"The demons arrived yesterday, but have shown no signs of hostility. It is said they bear ill will to Naraku as well," Kaede explains.
"Interesting," the monk looks pensive, still focused on the swarm hovering nearby. "How did you come by this information?"
Kaede, Kagome and Shippo look at each other, before all eyes turn to Sango. Inuyasha stands with his arms crossed and gives a disgruntled sniff. The taijiya's eyes widen at their evaluation. Finally, Kagome steps forward.
"Kohaku informed Inuyasha of this earlier today," the young miko says softly and watches her friend closely.
"He's here?" Sango inhales sharply and her voice trembles. "Kohaku is here now?"
Holding his shakujou and standing adjacent to his wife, Miroku can see the excitement growing at the prospect of seeing her brother. As he expects, Sango demands the location from Inuyasha. Once given, the taijiya turns and heads for her youkai companion.
As she starts to mount Kirara, Sango's movements still. She turns slowly to face her husband, an appeal in her eyes. The monk interprets her silent message and with a nod of his head, acknowledges her request. She thanks him with a slight bow, hops on Kirara and takes to the skies to find her brother.
The couple is unaware that Kagome has observed their exchange. Sidling next to Inuyasha, she continues to stare at the monk left behind. Miroku sighs as he watches his wife take off. With the offer of refreshments and they all move to follow Kaede into her home. Before the hanyou can take a step, Kagome pulls him back.
"Did you see that?" she whispers.
"See what!" Inuyasha sounds aggravated.
"Eh!" Kagome's head snaps back, her eyes wide in disbelief. "I can't… you didn't…" she stutters and then in exasperation. "Never mind, Inuyasha… never mind."
She hoped she only needed to do this once. Kikyou's sword arm ached terribly. Although, Sesshomaru said he would not hold back… he did. The taiyoukai's swordsmanship was superb; one could not help but admire his skill. Had he come at her full strength, Kikyou would not have survived the attack.
"You are no better than before," Sesshomaru looks down on her. The priestess is bent on one knee, holding her wrist.
"I have not improved?" she asks.
"No."
Kikyou is motionless in her kneeled position. Sesshomaru does not realize her role in this confrontation is not one of strength or power. She and Naraku clash with a test of wills and theirs is a battle of the mind, not steel. She must anticipate his actions and attempt to counter his next moves.
She has not obtained Midoriko's sword to win, but to give them an unforeseen advantage. The image of Kikyou trying to conquer Naraku with her brute strength is quite absurd. Rising to her feet, the priestess loose hair falls forward, shielding her face. The taiyoukai watches as her shoulders begin to shake and its meaning is misinterpreted.
"This is a waste of time. Stand down, priestess," Sesshomaru speaks in his usual monotone. "Your skills are not sufficient. It's best to leave Naraku to those capable of dealing with his treachery."
Kikyou's laughter bubbles forth, the husky, sultry tones filling the air. Once again, Sesshomaru experiences the same strange sensation from before. Tossing back her hair, he can see her smile before she covers it with the back of her hand; her eyes are alight with merriment. However, the priestess next words are less than humorous.
"It appears you are no more ready than I, Sesshomaru-sama," the ending has a biting tone.
In one fluid motion, the taiyoukai sheaths his sword and walks slowly towards her.
"Explain," he demands.
"Why haven't you eliminated him? You… the all powerful youkai lord," Kikyou gives a mocking bow. "You have spent a great deal of time tracking him; have had several encounters with him. You appear to be extremely capable; so… why haven't you defeated Naraku?"
Either Sesshomaru refuses to give an answer, or there is none. His golden glare sears deep into her mahogany orbs, but his eyes and expression gives nothing away.
"Hmph! As I suspected." Kikyou murmurs with a smirk and moves to go around him. Sesshomaru captures her wrist in a firm grip, as he whirls her around to face him again. This is the first time he has touched her. It is useless to struggle, therefore Kikyou stays still within his grasp.
"Do not presume you know me, woman," his voice low and menacing. "It will take more than a few woven tales from Totousai's decrepit mind to reveal who I am."
They are so close Kikyou has to tilt her head back to look at him. Staring into his eyes, she experiences a sense of satisfaction at the small crack in his armor. For the first time, she can detect his anger. It is there… deep within his irises, flowing over her like molten gold.
"Then, do not belittle me," the priestess responds. "Unlike some… I am well aware of my limits, but it does not mean I will simply give up." They continue to stare until Kikyou gives her captured wrist a wiggle. He releases her and watches as she returns her sword to its scabbard across her back. Folding her hands primly in front of her, the priestess stands to the side.
"I believe you mentioned something about wasting time." Kikyou says with a slight tilt of her head.
Such a frustrating woman!
Sesshomaru narrows his eyes at the cordial pretense, before preceding her down the path.
"Ah!" Rin claps in delight, "Kohaku-kun, you are wonderful! How long can you stay like that?" she sits across from him on a log, watching him perform.
The taijiya turns to face the little girl from his position in a handstand.
"You look funny upside-down, Rin-chan," he chuckles while balancing himself.
"You look funny too!" the child giggles and is highly entertained with her friend's antics. It feels nice being with Kohaku. They have enjoyed their day and she has learned a lot in their time together. He has taught her many new games to play when she is alone and to make shadow puppets from the light of the campfire. There is always something fun to do with Kohaku.
"Let me try that," Rin hops from the log, bends over on all fours and tries to lift her feet into the air.
"Not so fast, Rin-chan!" Kohaku shouts, scrambling over to assist her. "You need someone to help you." He snatches her up before her head hits the ground in her efforts to copy him.
Seating her back on the log, Kohaku lightly scolds her. "Never try something like that without someone to assist you; you could really get hurt."
"I'm sorry, Kohaku-kun" Rin says sincerely, not wanting to upset her friend.
"It's all right," he says, kneeling in front of her. "Just promise me you'll remember to be careful."
"I will," she smiles at him, her pert nose wrinkling.
The taijiya senses movement behind him; he watches Rin's eyes shift in the direction of the approaching figures.
Although he is not facing that direction, Kohaku knows his sister has come to him. The siblings have been through much; together and separate, but the family ties that bind these two refuse to be broken. He turns to find Sango and Kirara watching him.
She seemed different somehow. There was an inner calmness about her. This was the Sango from before… before the tragedy of their father's death, before the destruction of their comrades, their village and their home. This sister had raised him from infancy, guided him, disciplined him and cared for him through the years.
"Ane-ue," he whispers and then louder as he races to her. "Ane-ue!"
Kohaku stops directly in front of Sango, his eyes full of unshed tears. He opens his mouth to speak, but closes it just as quickly. He wants to tell her he misses her, to tell her he is sorry, but most of all…
"I… I lov…" the words lodged in his throat. "Ane-ue, I…"
Sango moves forward and closes her arms around her little brother. With a sigh of contentment, she ends his suffering.
"I know, Kohaku," she whispers. "I love you too."
The others inform the monk of their plans to evacuate the village, if necessary. Miroku, in turn, updates them on news of the Kazaana and its link to his emotions.
"Unfortunately, I was unable to find any other information to help us defeat Naraku," the monk explains.
"Well… I think you'll be okay, Miroku," Kagome says as Kaede pours him a cup of tea. "You always have such control over your emotions."
The young miko does not know how wrong she is. With each passing day, he has felt the fear and desperation of the upcoming battle. Lifting the fresh brew to his lips, he must continue to play his role to perfection. It is enough that Sango is aware of his anxiety.
"Inuyasha?" Miroku looks to the hanyou. "Did Kohaku mention what Naraku's current form might be?"
"Nah!" Inuyasha stands up. "Didn't think to ask. Maybe Sango'll get somethin'."
Miroku nods thanks to Kaede, as she refills his teacup. "If only we had some insight of what to expect tomorrow."
"Keh… you think too much, monk!" Inuysha sniffs, "We'll deal with whatever comes."
"Thank you, Inuyasha," Miroku smiles openly at his friend, "for that bit of primal strategy."
Everyone laughs except the hanyou, "Shut up, Miroku!" Picking up the Tetsaiga, Inuyasha plans to check the outer perimeters and Kaede and Shippo, will check on the villagers.
"You comin', Kagome?"
"No… I'll hang out with Miroku for awhile," the young miko pipes in as the others leave Keade's home.
Although the monk appears serene, he is not looking forward to Kagome's interrogation. The miko has been shooting questioning glances his way throughout the conversation. Once he and Kagome are alone, the grilling begins.
"So… what's the deal with you and Sango, hm?"
Miroku puts on his most innocent face. "What do you mean, Kagome-chan?"
"I mean… did you two spend a lot of time together?"
"Not really," he lies smoothly. "She accompanied me to the temple and then headed immediately to her village." This is not a total fabrication.
"You let her go alone?" Kagome shrieks, "What were you thinking?"
"Kirara was with her," Miroku says calmly.
"That's not what I meant and you know it!" the miko says angrily. "You were to stay together. What if something would have happened while you were separated?"
"Calm down, Kagome-chan," Miroku says in his most soothing voice. "Nothing occurred. We have both returned, safe and sound."
The monk surreptitiously watches her from beneath his lids. This has just the effect he is aiming for. Instead of reassuring her, it only makes the miko angrier.
"I-at-least expected you to understand, but you're just as clueless as Inuyasha!" she snaps. "Men!" she yells in exasperation, before storming out of the hut.
Miroku continues to sit quietly and finish his tea. He knows this is only a temporary diversion. Kagome will be back and more determined than ever. One of the things he likes most about her is her tenacity, but only when it is directed at Inuyasha. He hopes Sango is able to hold her own against the inquisitive miko.
"It has been a pleasure serving you, priestess," Totousai says in response to Kikyou's thanks. "Until we meet again."
That is unlikely; however, it will be rude to say so. The demon forger has given his aid and support to end this madness. Therefore, instead of a reply, she simply bows before moving away. Her destiny will not allow an opportunity to reacquaint.
Sesshomaru stands next to Au-un watching the farewell between Kikyou and Totousai. As the priestess approaches, he has the beast kneel for her to mount. He offers no assistance as she climbs aboard. The taiyoukai is still piqued from their physical contact earlier. In addition, her blunt query only served to expose his own shortcomings in Naraku's intended demise.
Originally, the pursuit of this archenemy began as revenge for using him as a way to get to Inuyasha. He was so determined to obtain the Tetsaiga; Sesshomaru unknowingly became a pawn in Naraku's scheme. The taiyoukai would not allow an inferior being to best him.
Each time he and Naraku crossed paths; there was a new development in Sesshomaru's consciousness. The encounters became more personal and each revealed there was more to his true nature, but not every revelation was welcomed or acceptable. The taiyoukai never took the time to sort out his feelings; he only suppressed them.
It was during Rin's kidnapping, the battle with the Shichinin-tai on Mt. Hakurei and the fall of the wind sorceress, Kagura, that these unfamiliar sensations within him begun to occur more frequently. Sesshomaru had no desire to delve deeper into the cause of this inner unrest; he chose to ignore it.
Now… this bold, impudent woman has managed to annoy him to the point of displaying his anger. Sesshomaru looks over at Kikyou as she reaches for Au-un's reins. His eyes narrow as they focus on the wrist he grabbed earlier.
The priestess hears him inhale sharply and exhale with a hiss. Sitting astride the youkai beast, she turns the animal to face him and inquires, "Is something wrong?"
Without answering, his steely glare turns to Totousai. Sesshomaru closes the distance between him and the demon forger. Anger oozes from every pore of the taiyoukai lord, he and the demon forger converse in a mute, yet heated manner. As Totousai appears unconcerned, Kikyou is not alarmed. What can have roused such a reaction from Sesshomaru?
Both youkai depict the image of having a calm disagreement; however, the tension between them is obvious. Sesshomaru makes a slicing motion with his arm, ending the conversation. With a brief glance in her direction, he ascends into the air.
Kikyou looks to Totousai, who in turn smiles gracefully and bows to her. The priestess is barely able to wave a response before Au-un follows his master.
Kouga has taken his first break since leaving the clan last night. By now, Ginta and Hakkaku are aware of his abrupt departure. They are probably hounding Ayame mercilessly. On second thought, the she-wolf can hold her own against his comrades.
The wolf-youkai rests beneath a tree and stares at the afternoon sky. Until now, he has mainly focused on the encounter with Naraku. His anger propelling him forward, it is almost like possessing the jewel shards in his legs again. Even without the enhancement from the Shikon no Tama, Kouga is considered effectual. He is still swift, has his whirlwind and now carries the Goraishi passed to him by the white wolf clan.
"Ayame…"
Who would have guessed her tongue was as sweet as it was sharp. The girlish giggle, he once thought annoying, now gave him the most enticing shivers. The wolf youkai was very confused.
When the she-wolf reappeared in his life, she hunted him down and demanded he honor his promise of marriage. He thought she had lost her mind and they argued steadily. It took some gentle prompting from Kagome for him to calm down and try to recall that time. Memories of a night with a lunar moon and words spoken to comfort, were awakened.
Kouga remembered saving a young Ayame from the Birds of Prey. She was quite shaken from the ordeal with the ferocious beasts. Attempting to alleviate her fears, he kept her talking while returning her to her grandfather. He asked her questions about herself, her training and her hopes for the future. Kouga never imagined his actions would encourage the young she-wolf beyond that moment, but they had.
According to Ayame's grandfather, the wolf youkai's words had taken her through the last of her training. When the regime got tough, the she-wolf thought of his words and pushed harder. She was resolved to become a suitable mate… for him.
The reality sets in and Kouga abruptly sits up. It will please Ayame to know she has accomplished her goal. Beneath that girlish exterior is a woman with an iron will to match his. The alpha male she chooses will be lucky, considering he can handle his mate. Lying back in the grass, he puts his hands behind his head and laughs at the image of Ayame dominating the den. Although heartfelt and sincere, Kouga suddenly wonders why his wish for her happiness… is full of regret.
The last few hours have been an emotional upheaval for me. Kagome's suggestion of a long soak in the hot spring is the perfect ending to this day. Leaning back in the warm water, I remember my touching reunion with Kohaku.
It felt good to be together again, to touch him, to hear his voice. I held my brother tight as months of anguish poured from his soul and tumbled from his lips. He begged my forgiveness repeatedly and promised me vengeance.
I could not imagine what he had been through, to be honest; I did not want to know. I only wanted my little brother with me, to be a family again. We talked, we cried, we laughed… a little. We reminisced about father and I revised the tales of the mother he never knew.
Over the years, I had created a collection my most memorable moments with mother. Kohaku grew up listening to them; it was my way of allowing him a glimpse of her as a person.
As I thought about family, I felt compelled to inform Kohaku of my marriage. Watching my brother watch Rin, who was playing happily with Kirara, I thought the time was right. I only hoped…
"Kohaku…" I began tentatively. "I was married two days ago," I blurted out in a rush, before I lost my nerve.
His entire body turned and his full attention was on me. However, he was silent for so long that I became nervous. Maybe it 'was' too soon. Cupping his chin in my hand, I tilted his face to look into his eyes.
"Sorry," I said, my voice trembling. "I planned to wait… to tell you after, but being here with you…"
I had to stop, as a note of desperation crept into my voice. I wanted him to be happy for me. Was I being selfish or forcing my will upon him? Just because I wanted to believe, did that mean he had to? Clasping my hands tightly together in my lap, I shifted to the side. I could feel the tears forming and blinked rapidly, trying to hold them back.
"It's the monk, isn't it?" he asked and I gave an affirmative nod, not turning to face him.
"Are you happy, Ane-ue?"
"Yes!" I abruptly turned to him, "He makes me happy. If you only knew, Kohaku, how much trouble I've been to him, such a burden and yet… he loves me anyway. He is everything to me. There are times I wanted to give up, to end this way of life, but he would not allow that." I took a moment to catch my breath, "There is so much I could tell you about my husband, Kohaku, but… well; I think you'll like him."
My heart had skipped a few beats as I talked, his answer was important to me. For him to give his approval, would mean the same as my fathers consent. More than anything, I needed to hear that. My little brother watched me with an odd look in his eyes as I rambled on. Finally, he reached over and placed his hands on top of mine. I had not realized I was trembling, but so was Kohaku; it was in his voice as he spoke.
"I like him already," he said simply. "I noticed you looked different this time, but I didn't know what it was; now I do. It's love, Ane-ue… I can see it in your eyes. A man that can make you smile again has my blessing."
I knew my cheeks were pink as I blushed profusely, but my heart was light. By the time we parted, my optimism had returned. We were going to make it; we would find a way.
Shippo splashing water brings me back to the present. I watch as Kagome shoos the kitsune off to dress, leaving us alone in the hot spring. I instantly become wary. After talking with Kohaku, the urge to tell the miko is not as strong as before. Seeing Kagome's determined gleam, I can only avert my eyes as my mind works furiously to come up with a diversion.
"I hear you and Miroku spent a lot of time together while you were away," the miko starts in as soon as Shippo is out of view.
I doubt Houshi-sama would say that, but I never spoke with him privately on my return. Kagome immediately suggests this activity as Inuyasha and my husband go off in another direction. Kagome is clever and I have to think of this as the battlefield. She plans to put me on the defensive. Instead of rising to bait, I simply relax in the water and give an offhanded response.
"Right… he wishes."
"Aw, come on, Sango-chan," Kagome continues undeterred, "you guys were gone for a few days! What did you do in all that time?"
"I just wanted to go home, Kagome-chan," I say softly. "I wanted to surround myself with memories of family and friends long gone. I walked through every room of the main house and each reflected a special moment from my childhood."
"I remembered dancing with my mother, working beside her in the gardens, showing her my latest accomplishment with the Hiraikotsu. I also remembered her death; the night Kohaku was born."
I can feel my throat tightening and the tears on the brink of falling; therefore, I stop talking. I have to think of a way to distract Kagome, now is not the time to get weepy. Looking over at the miko, I prepare to counter her next wave of questions. Instead, I find her watching me closely, a peculiar sparkle in her eyes.
"Are you all right, Kagome-chan?"
"Yes!" she squeals delightedly. "Oh, Sango-chan! I knew this would eventually happen," she gives another squeal of delight and grabs my hand. "You have made me so happy."
My body stiffens; somehow, I must have given myself away. Somehow, she knows about Houshi-sama and I. She does not appear upset at our trying to keep it from her, so I attempt to explain.
"Kagome-chan…"
"No…" she interrupts. "You have said enough. I know it took a lot for you tell me as much as you did. Now… let's get out of here. I can't wait to get back and tell Miroku."
I groan aloud at hearing my husbands name; Houshi-sama will be so upset with me.
"Now you can talk to me as easily as Miroku. You have never opened up to me quite like that before. Thank you for sharing, Sango-chan."
I let out a shaky breath as I realize, I have once again avoided the inevitable. Kagome is really going to kill us when we finally tell her the truth.
To be continued…
Author Notes: Thank you all for your patience. Next chapter they finally encounter Naraku. Stay tuned.